Debbie King

Summer Story

Summer always seems to whiz by so quickly.

Happy Hour meet-up with a group of fascinating women. On a rooftop of course.

Slowly creeping up on us, and then with a bang – all the activities happen. It’s like summer gets impatient – waiting all year behind the scenes, then bursting onto the stage with fireworks, beach trips, and backyard BBQs like it’s got something to prove.

The days are longer, but somehow feel shorter because we’re racing to make the most of each one. Social calendars fill up fast – everyone seems to want to squeeze in reunions, road trips, festivals, and patio nights before the season fades.

Khatsahlano Street Party 2025. This is what happens in July when we Vancouverites have a Juneuary.

We take it all in because just like a summer romance, something in us knows it’s fleeting. Summer carries this golden-hour magic that we chase because we know it won’t stay. It’s like we’re trying to bottle the sunlight, laughter, and late-night breezes before the rhythm of routine and colder days creep back in.

Speaking of Festivals…

Looking forward to Folk Fest this weekend.

Do you feel like you’re getting enough out of this summer? Or does it feel like it’s flying past too fast for you to catch?

THINKAboutit

Musings…Textpectations

Texting has changed the way we communicate. Think about it!

Once upon a time, we made phone calls, using those boxy, bulky things that we had to speak into and said “hello”when we answered, and a human responded… out loud. We used to talk. Then texting happened.

Now we Type. And somehow we all agreed that communicating in cryptic abbreviations, passive-aggressive punctuation, and emojis was more efficient. So entire conversations started happening without a single full sentence. I have some grievances around it. For instance:

Lost in Transmission

We say “lol” when we’re not laughing. We send thumbs-ups to end conversations we don’t know how to finish. Just the letter“K” can mean “cool,” “okay,” or “you’ve just ended this relationship.” And don’t forget to read through your text before sending, because auto-fill does some weird things. This happens a lot. One small typo can summon up quite the unexpected meaning.

Text: “Running late! Be there soon, just kidnapping some coffee.” Translation: “just grabbing some coffee.” Autocorrect had… darker plans. Not meaning to start my morning with caffeine and a felony.

“I had a long day… can’t wait to get home and seduce on the couch.” (meant; snooze)

All this compressed form of language prioritizes speed over meaning, which changes how we express feelings or resolve misunderstandings. Without vocal tone or facial cues, texts can be misinterpreted. Emojis have become crucial tone indicators so what used to be grammar, is now emotional context.

I detest texting for that reason. Many times I’ve made errors in judgment and have been confused (and have confused others) via texting.

Oh; and how about those awful looking ear buds that I still refuse to wear? The ones where you forget that people don’t really talk to themselves (although some do) and where people don’t pay attention anymore. I just said hello to an acquaintance twice and he didn’t even respond because he was deep in earbud mode.

Then there’s the expectation for instant replies. Silence gets interpreted as disinterest. Can You Hear My Silence? Relationships can feel more connected, or more exhausting because of constant availability.

Sure, it’s faster. But is it better?

Texting has made us more available than ever, but strangely, it also feels like we’re more alone together. We edit ourselves mid-thought. We avoid discomfort by ghosting. Even our deepest feelings come with a character limit now.

I’m not anti-text. I’m just more pro-connection. I just wonder if we’re trading clarity for convenience and if someday, we’ll look up from our screens and realize we’ve forgotten how to really talk.

Don’t get me wrong; I text like everyone else. It’s convenient. It’s fast. Sometimes, it’s even sweet.

But I do wonder if we’re editing ourselves into oblivion. If we’re saying less and interpreting more. If being “reachable” 24/7 is making us feel more distant, not less.

Just things I’ve noticed. Through the tiny glowing rectangle we all keep glued to our palms. Apparently, as a collective, we seem to be all fine with this.

Have you any pet peeves of your own regarding this?

Food + Drink

Still searching for your perfect Matcha?

I think I found mine.

It has not gone unnoticed that every coffee shop in Vancouver is going green; literally. Matcha (tea) has become mainstream in North America.

Hot or Cold – it’s all in the way of how it’s prepared. Photo: d. king

That’s a good thing because Matcha is rich in antioxidants, especially EGCG, and contains L-theanine, which promotes calm focus without the jittery crash of coffee. That combo has made it a darling of the wellness crowd.

While I love to start my morning with a daily dose of java (one perfect cup, made in a French press and sweetened with French vanilla almond milk and a touch of cream), by mid-afternoon I’m looking for another pick-me-up other than coffee. Something healthier.

Matcha is something I discovered (of course I was not the first one to discover it) while living in Japan when I was invited to a tea ceremony. I always liked the idea of ceremony, and was excited to attend one. I love the setting, the ritual and the meaning.

I’ve since looked for ways to incorporate this bright green powder into my day by putting a little into a smoothie and so on. I’ve even used it for baking – white chocolate bark drizzled with matcha is divine (although I haven’t made this in years).

My friend Riyo is here visiting from Japan. When I phoned to ask her if she could bring me back a high grade matcha, it turns out that when I called, she was on a train heading for Kyoto. Uji, in Kyoto Prefecture, is a region renowned for its long history of matcha cultivation and is known for producing some of the highest quality matcha in Japan. So here I am now with some really nice ceremonial matcha (as well as some unceremonial matcha) to incorporate into my day.

There’s something profoundly grounding about preparing tea with intention (other than the intention of drinking it). It becomes a small act of self-care, a pocket of peace in a noisy day. Plus; the health aspect. It’s known to support healthy blood vessels, improve cholesterol levels and lower blood pressure. It is heart-friendly as long as you don’t overdo it. 1–2 cups per day is generally considered safe and beneficial.

Photo taken at Khatsahlano Street Festival – d. king

Where does Matcha originate?

Matcha tea has been enjoyed in Japan for roughly 800 years, having been introduced in the late 12th century. It was initially brought from China by the Zen Buddhist monk Eisai. Initially used for religious purposes, matcha later became a symbol of luxury and a part of the warrior class traditions.

What does the tea ceremony symbolize?

The Japanese tea ceremony, (or chanoyu) symbolizes harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility, reflecting a deep connection to Zen Buddhist philosophy. It’s a meticulously choreographed ritual aiming to foster inner peace and appreciation for the present moment, encompassing aspects of hospitality, aesthetics, and spirituality.

What is Ceremonial Grade Matcha?

Made from the youngest, first-harvest tea leaves
Grown in shade longer, which boosts chlorophyll and L-theanine
Higher in antioxidants like EGCG
Has a smoother, sweeter flavor and vibrant green color
Best enjoyed whisked with hot water with no milk or sweeteners needed
Ideal for mindful rituals, stress relief, and mental clarity

What about Culinary (regular) grade Matcha?

Made from older leaves, often second or third harvest
Slightly lower in nutrients, but still rich in antioxidants and caffeine
More bitter and robust in flavor
Perfect for lattes, smoothies, baking, and everyday use
More affordable and versatile for frequent consumption

Which is Better?

Ceremonial matcha is more nutrient-dense and ideal for sipping straight.
Culinary matcha is still beneficial and great for recipes or energy boosts.

If you’re looking for a calm, focused energy and a traditional tea experience, ceremonial is your go-to. But if you’re blending it into a smoothie or baking matcha cookies, regular matcha will do just fine, and still give you a healthy kick. Time to start baking again.

Have you tried making your own? I’m still experimenting with the right water temperature along with using my bamboo whisk and milk frother. With the right procedure, practice and presentation, it will soon be perfect!

Art & Culture

THE MOUSETRAP

Last night I saw The Arts Club Theatre Company’s production oF THE MOUSETRAP at the Granville Island Stage, Vancouver. This classic Agatha Christie murder mystery play has captivated audiences since its West End debut in 1952. It’s the world’s longest-running play, and for good reason. It’s a master class in suspense, misdirection, and tightly wound tension. My friend and I enjoyed the dark humor and witty dialogue very much. The characters were great.

The setup is a group of quirky strangers who are stranded by a snowstorm at Monkswell Manor, a remote English guesthouse. The guests include an eccentric architect, a grumpy magistrate that reminded me of “Mrs. Doubtfire,” a retired military man, a mysterious foreigner, and a few others with secrets to hide.

Photo courtesy of The Arts Club, Vancouver.

News breaks of a murder in London, and soon a police sergeant arrives on cross-country skis, warning that the killer may be among them. When one of the guests is murdered, the tension skyrockets. Everyone becomes a suspect, and the audience is left guessing until the final twist.

The play is famous for its surprise ending, and audiences are traditionally asked not to reveal the killer’s identity after the show to help preserve the mystery for future viewers. Although my companion guessed it right, halfway through the second act.

THE MOUSETRAP began as a radio play, titled Three Blind Mice, and was written at the request of the BBC for Queen Mary. Christie then expanded Three Blind Mice from a twenty-minute radio play into a full-length stage play, adding some characters and a fuller background to create The Mousetrap. It is currently playing its 73rd year in London’s West End, where it has completed over 30,000 performances. Due to the play’s longevity and success, there has never been a film adaptation. Audiences have been asked to keep the secret locked in their hearts and preserve the tradition of THE MOUSETRAP.

I will keep my mouth shut. For tickets until August 10^th, 2025:

https://artsclub.com/shows/2024-2025/the-mousetrap

Check out the Trailer:

https://artsclub.com/shows/2024-2025/the-mousetrap

CAST Jay Clift (Giles), Zander Eke (Christopher Wren), Charlie Gallant (Detective Sergeant Trotter), Brett Harris (Standby for Giles, Christopher Wren, Major Metcalf & Detective Sergeant Trotter), Ming Hudson (Mollie), Andrew McNee (Mr. Paravicini), Melissa Oei (Miss Casewell), Carly Pokoradi (Standby for Mollie, Miss Casewell, Mrs. Boyle), Anthony Santiago (Major Metcalf & Understudy Mr. Paravicini), Beatrice Zeilinger (Mrs. Boyle)

Have you seen this play?

inspiration

“Sorry…not sorry…We’re Canadian!”

HAPPY CANADA DAY!

The one day we’re extra proud to be the only nation where two people bump into each other and both apologize. We Canadians apologize like it’s a competitive sport.‘Sorry,’ ‘No; I’m sorrier!’ We can’t help it if politeness is one of our traits. But there are so many others…

Oh, where to begin! Canada has so many brag-worthy qualities, we could fill a canoe with them. Here are a few highlights:

Stunning landscapes and open spaces: from the Rockies to the Maritimes, Canada offers wild beauty in every province and territory. Lakes, forests, prairies, tundra; you name it, we’ve got it.

Cultural richness: with a deep Indigenous heritage and vibrant multiculturalism, Canada is a mosaic of languages, traditions, and stories that help shape its identity.

Social values: Canadians are known globally for kindness, inclusivity, and that famous “sorry” reflex. It’s a place that strives toward equity and care for its people.

Innovation and talent: from insulin to Canadarm, and from Joni Mitchell to Drake, Canadians have made waves in science, arts, and pop culture. A rich Canadian legacy of discoveries and inventions that have shaped the world in ways both big and small. Here are just a few highlights:

Insulin – As you already know, this life-saving treatment for diabetes was discovered by Canadian researchers in 1921.
The pacemaker – Canadian electrical engineer John Hopps developed the first external pacemaker in the 1950s, paving the way for modern cardiac care.
IMAX – That immersive movie experience? Born in Canada in the late 1960s.
Canadarm – A robotic arm developed for NASA’s space shuttle program, it became a symbol of Canadian innovation in space exploration.
Standard time zones – Introduced by Canadian Sir Sandford Fleming in the 19th century to solve railway scheduling chaos.
The snowmobile – Invented by Joseph-Armand Bombardier, it revolutionized winter travel in snowy regions.
Walkie-talkies – Created by Donald Hings during WWII to improve battlefield communication.
Hawaiian pizza (yes, with pineapple!) was invented by a Greek-Canadian in Ontario.

Healthcare and safety – Universal healthcare is a big point of pride, as is a strong sense of community.

Not sorry for MY PERSONAL CANADIAN EXPERIENCES:

Earlier this month in the **Okanagan, B.C**. – visiting local wineries. British Columbia and Ontario are the largest wine-producing provinces.

I got my fashion sense from growing up in Montreal, a business sense from having lived/worked in Toronto, and an appreciation for outdoor sports from making Vancouver my home. I’ve visited every single Province in Canada. Some famous visitations have included Niagara Falls, Banff National Park, the scenic Cabot Trail in Cape Breton Island, whale watching in Tofino, walking along The Bay of Fundy when the tide was way out, camping at Gros Morne National Park in Newfoundland and eating fresh scallops right off the boat in Digby, Nova Scotia. Eating seafood in every Maritime Province, actually. I’ve visited the Yukon (which is considered a Territory; not a Province).

I’ve stayed at some of the most iconic resorts/hotels in Canada. Among them; a turret room at Le Château Frontenac in Quebec City overlooking the St. Lawrence River, The Algonquin Resort at St. Andrews by the Sea, New Brunswick (occupied the same room that Joan Collins had just checked out of and where we accidentally proceeded to start an electrical fire during our stay). Ritz Carlton in Montreal (where Elizabeth Taylor married Richard Burton), some very nice lodges like The Bluenose & the Keltic Lodge in Nova Scotia and a few dives in between.

I love my Vancouver location; it’s a neighbourhood feel that truly feels like home. I’m within walking distance to everything I need; not just grocery stores and transit, but also the little indulgences like cafés, bakeries, boutiques, parks and a bench with a view. That’s what makes a place quietly extraordinary. I don’t like to get in my car except when necessary and wouldn’t survive living in the suburbs. I’ve joked that if need be, I’d much rather live in a small condo in Kits than a mansion in Mission. I’m lucky that I have the kind of lifestyle that makes every day errands feel like part of a vibrant, joyful routine. Walkability is one of life’s underrated luxuries. It really is a dream. I’ve liked other cities for other reasons, but nothing beats the stunning natural scenery, outdoor lifestyle, and milder weather of Vancouver.

So on Canada Day, we celebrate not just the birthday of a country, but all the things that make Canada genuinely worth cheering for.

As for being unapologetically Canadian, on Canada Day, amid the festivities, I’m sure there will be far more of us singing “O Canada” than the Connie Francis 1958 hit song “Who’s Sorry Now?“

What do you find special about Canada?

THINKAboutit

Musings…Life as a Sandwich

Life is peculiar. Think about it. We come into this world, we live and then we leave. Birth on one end, death on the other…it’s what you put in the middle that makes it tasty. That middle is like a sandwich.

You don’t need a gourmet spread in your sandwich every time; but you can stuff it with the bits you love, the parts you crave, and a few things you only added because they were there. Sometimes it’s full of baloney! Mine usually includes a wild streak of hot sauce and it can get messy at times. But however we choose to fill in between the two pieces of bread, It should all makes sense when we bite in.

In between life and death there’s a dash between the year we’re born and the year we die. The dash is the only part we get to write.

The mad dash in between is the most important thing. It’s how we choose to live and what we do to accomplish everything we want. If we’re not careful, the dash can end in a flash.

How do you like your life? I prefer mine well done, thank you.

I want to live it like it’s a limited-edition, full-flavored, double-chocolate scoop with sprinkles ride. Always sprinkles and a side of sparkle.

Because…

That dash; so small on the page, yet it holds everything. It’s the quiet punctuation between two dates on a tombstone, but in truth, it’s the sum total of a life: every sunrise watched, every tear shed, every laugh shared.

It’s where we fall in love, fail forward, grow older, and gather meaning. It doesn’t shout. It whispers in the choices we make daily…making insightful choices, how we treat people, what we chase, what we let go of. Living well isn’t about making that dash longer; it’s about making it deeper, fuller and more awake.

I believe that a book I read as part of a book club, got me started thinking about all of this. I didn’t enjoy the book Midnight Library by Matt Haig as a whole, however; the idea that someone wasn’t happy with her life and then got several chances to try different versions of the life she could’ve had, made me think that we should try to get the life we have right now, as right as humanly possible. Life is not a dress rehearsal!

An excerpt:

“It is easy to mourn the lives we aren’t living. Easy to wish we’d developed other talents, said yes to different offers. Easy to wish we’d worked harder, loved better, handled our finances more astutely, been more popular, stayed in the band, gone to Australia, said yes to the coffee or done more bloody yoga. It takes no effort to miss the friends we didn’t make and the work we didn’t do, the people we didn’t do and the people we didn’t marry and the children we didn’t have.

It is not difficult to see yourself through the lens of other people, and to wish you were all the different kaleidoscopic versions of you they wanted you to be. It is easy to regret, and keep regretting, ad infinitum, until our time runs out. But it is not lives we regret not living that are the real problem.

*It is the regret itself. It’s the regret that makes us shrivel and wither and feel like our own and other people’s worst enemy. We can’t tell if any of those other versions would’ve been better or worse. Those lives are happening, it is true, but you are happening as well, and that is the happening we have to focus on.”

FYI: had I not said “yes” to that cup of coffee, I would not have met and later married my late husband.

To paraphrase Franklin D. Roosevelt’s famous quote (which was about fear) – *the mark of a good life is where there’s nothing to regret but regret itself.

In closing…the birth and death is what we inherit. But the dash? That’s ours. We could think of it as a Wi-Fi Signal: sometimes strong, sometimes spotty, but we’re all just trying to stay connected.

Make the middle count. How are you going to write your dash? Fill the dash with meaning!

Are you living a dashing life?

Art & Culture

Two Gentlemen of Verona

Last night under the tents we went again, to attend the opening of Bard on the Beach’s “The Two Gentlemen of Verona.” This is one of four plays being presented at the Vanier Park Venue.

Two Ladies of Vancouver at the **Bard Boutique** (with my friend + neighbour Marta).

This version of the play is a Shakespeare comedy of sorts, modernized with costumes, music, and a dog (of course we loved the dog best).

Jacob Leonard as Proteus & Matthew Ip Shaw as Valentine, The Two Gentlemen of Verona (2025). Directed by Dean Paul Gibson. Photo & Image Design by Emily Cooper.

There is a lot going on in this production, so for the sake of simplicity, I’ll sum it all up like this:

Two best friends, Valentine and Proteus, leave their hometown. Valentine heads to Milan and falls for Silvia, the ruler’s daughter. Proteus, originally in love with Julia, is sent to Milan too, but once he sees Silvia, he forgets all about Julia and tries to win Silvia for himself. Yikes. That’s men for you!

The Company of the Two Gentlemen of Verona – Photo by Tim Matheson.

Meanwhile…Julia disguises herself as a guy (classic Shakespeare move) and follows Proteus. There’s betrayal, heartbreak, mistaken identities, and even a very clever dog named Crab who steals scenes left and right.

Mason as Crab (the only dog role in the Shakespearean canon). Scott Bellis as Launce, Photo by Tim Matheson.

Tess Degenstein as **Julia**, Photo by Tim Matheson

In the end, all is forgiven far too quickly, love is restored, and the play wraps with everyone paired off and pals again. Oops…sorry about the spoiler alert. Believe me, if you see it, you won’t remember this ending.

Jacob Leonard as Proteus Tess Degenstein as Julia, Photo by Tim Matheson

Watch Trailer:

For tickets:

https://bardonthebeach.org/the-two-gentlemen-of-verona/

Header photo: d. king

Art & Culture

Much Ado About Nothing

Yes; there’s a lot of that these days!

I attended the opening night of Vancouver’s “Bard on the Beach” last night for “Much Ado About Nothing.” It appeared from the overall audience reaction, that this production was very well received. While I enjoyed the play and found the actors compelling, it is not one of my favourites of Shakespeare’s works.

With Marta – my lovely friend & neighbour.

Our beautiful **Kits Point Backdrop behind the stage** – before the start of the play.

Before the play started, **a few words from Artistic Director Claire Sakaki & Executive Director Christopher Gaze.**

The phrase “much ado about nothing” means a lot of fuss or commotion over something unimportant. It’s used when people get worked up or excited about a situation that turns out to be trivial or not worth the attention.

Nothing comes from the play’s title itself; a clever pun. In Elizabethan English, “nothing” was often pronounced like “noting,” which meant noticing or eavesdropping. So the title can also mean “Much Noting About Nothing,” hinting at how the entire plot revolves around overheard conversations, misunderstandings, and mistaken identities. Kinda like life itself at times.

For example, in Act 1, Scene 1, Beatrice jabs at Benedick with: “I had rather hear my dog bark at a crow than a man swear he loves me.” It’s witty, sharp, and shows how their “merry war” of words masks deeper feelings.

Jennifer Lines as Beatrice and Sheldon Elter as Benedick, Photo by Tim Matheson

Angus Yam as Claudio, Matthew Ip Shaw as Don Pedro, and David Marr as Leonato, Photo by Tim Matheson

Sometimes I wonder why people are laughing at a certain scene or something that I personally do not find funny. I turned to my friend and asked “why are they laughing?” She replied “You know, humor is a funny thing.” To which I replied “well, that’s what it’s supposed to be.” Then we both laughed.

If you’re into clever insults, romantic drama, and some old-school scheming, this play’s a classic.

So next time someone’s making a big deal out of a minor issue, you’ve got the perfect phrase to describe it.

For Tickets:

https://bardonthebeach.org/much-ado-about-nothing

June 10 to September 20 • BMO MAINSTAGE

“As merry as the day is long.” Two of Shakespeare’s most tumultuous couples – sparring singles Beatrice and Benedick, and young lovers Claudio and Hero – discover all is not as it seems in an idyllic town recovering from war. Will the truth win in this mischievous game of love? Secret love, courtship, and marriage intertwine with darker themes of warfare, deception, and mischief in Much Ado About Nothing. Romance, wit, and mistaken identities power this new staging of Shakespeare’s beloved comedy full of colourful characters, passionate poetry, and Shakespeare’s wittiest wordplay.

Jennifer Tong as Hero and Angus Yam as Claudio, Photo by Tim Matheson

Watch Trailer:

Production run dates subject to change.

Production run time: 2 hours 45 minutes, including 20 minute intermission.

Food + Drink

Vini d’Abruzzo

This past Wednesday, I was invited to an exclusive tasting event at The Vancouver Club put on by The Consortium of wines from Abruzzo, Italy.

Since the responsibility of having two dogs, I have not made a trip to Italy in quite some time. These little experiences bring me back to THE CHARMING TASTE OF EUROPE.

I was among a few sommeliers, agents/importers, restaurateurs, wine educators and licensed shop owners, where we had the opportunity to explore the unique characteristics of Abruzzo wines, and deepen our knowledge of this renowned appellation to discover the quality and elegance of their wines.

The Abruzzo wine region is located in central Italy, along the Adriatic Coast. It is considered the greenest region in Europe, with nearly half of its land designated as national parks and nature reserves. This unique geography contributes to the distinct character of its wines.

With David, the Director of Marketing for the Consortium of wines from Abruzzo.

This area is famous for its *Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, a bold red wine that dominates production. At the walk around tasting we got to sample some with as high as 97 pts. Also, lovely,

With Leeann, owner of “Town Hall Brands” – the PR company.

naturally organic wine as well.

This event featured wine pairings with carefully selected finger foods which were amazing, and a risotto station with a young gentleman making it there on the spot with lemon, asparagus, fresh herbs and parmesan.

*A few interesting facts:

The Montepulciano grape has been cultivated in Abruzzo for centuries, with historical references dating back to 1792.

Legendary Healing Powers: A legend claims that Hannibal (the general renowned for his role in the Second Punic War (218-201 BC), where he famously led his army, including war elephants, across the Alps to invade Italy and challenge the Roman Republic) used Montepulciano wine to heal his horses from scabies! Lately, with the recent articles claiming that wine is no good for you, how do you like them grapes?

Abruzzo’s wines are a delightful mix of tradition and innovation. Have you ever tried one? If so, do you have a favourite?

Photos: d. king

THINKAboutit

Musings…

on INSPIRATION & COURAGE

Aside from having written about Style, Art, Food, Beauty and Health, I want to include sharing some thoughts and exploring different ideas and possibilities which I believe embodies the word “Musings.” In between regular daily activities and invites to theatre openings and wine tastings, I’ve been working on some new projects which I hope to share with you at a later date. I’m forging ahead and pushing myself a little outside my normal comfort zone. It’s a new era.In the past, this blog used to be posted daily, but now I write when the feeling strikes or after having attended certain events for the purpose of a review. For now, let’s explore the origin of the word “musings.”

MUSE – in a creative sense, a muse is a person or force that sparks inspiration, often for artists, writers, or musicians. In Greek mythology, the Muses were nine goddesses who inspired literature, art, and music.

MUSES – Some famous muses throughout history include Yoko Ono for John Lennon and French photographer/painter Dora Maar for Pablo Picasso. Andy Warhol had a fascinating array of muses; people who inspired his art and shaped his creative world. Some of his most famous muses included socialite and actress Edie Sedgwick, singers Debby Harry and Grace Jones, and legendary fashion editor Diana Vreeland.

MUSINGS – “Musings” refers to thoughts, reflections, or ideas often deep, wandering, or contemplative. When someone shares their musings, they’re offering a glimpse into their inner world, whether it’s philosophical ponderings, personal reflections, or just daydreams about the meaning of life. In the space I’m in right now, I’m focusing on Inspiration and Courage; both help to shape my world which is always evolving.

INSPIRATION is that spark that ignites creativity and motivates us to pursue new ideas or take action. It’s a powerful force that can come from a variety of sources like:

Nature: The beauty of a sunrise, the tranquility of a forest, or the power of the ocean.
People: Role models, mentors, or even stories of individuals overcoming challenges.
Art and Culture: Music, literature, paintings, and other creative expressions that evoke emotions.
Experiences: Personal moments of joy, sorrow, success, or failure that shape our perspective.

COURAGE is a powerful force. It’s that moment when you trust yourself enough to take a risk, speak up, or embrace uncertainty. It’s not the absence of fear; it’s facing fear and choosing to move forward despite it. It’s also about the awareness of serious risk. Facing courage doing something right, good or best. In these cases, an individual must face internal challenges (be they emotional or cognitive) and push through despite potential harm or personal loss. And then, sometimes simply getting through the day when life feels overwhelming takes courage. It also takes some bravery to either confront or walk away from someone who you considered a good friend when that person all of a sudden turns a 180 and shows complete uncaring and disrespect.

A friend of mine emailed me a website called THE POWER HOUSE. Their forecast for the current month really resonated with me so I’ll share a couple paragraphs and if you’re interested, you can read more at the link below.

COURAGE: Mental or moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear, or difficulty.

It takes courage to try something new. It takes courage to change a familiar pattern. It takes courage to speak your truth. It takes courage to heal. It takes courage to take a risk or take action where the outcome is unknown. It takes courage to open your heart. It takes courage to see everything as spirit. It takes courage to be neutral and not judge. It takes courage to be flexible. It takes courage to say no and it takes courage to say yes. It takes courage to ask for help. It takes courage to be yourself. It takes courage to be disciplined. It takes courage to face an uncharted future. It takes courage to let go of the past. It takes courage to release attachments to how things should be or should have been. It takes courage to stay present. It takes courage to stay out of fear. It takes courage to dissolve old structures of security making way for something new. It takes courage to trust. It takes courage to do what you know is right for you and others.

We chose “courage” as the theme for the month since all of the above will manifest in some way this month as we navigate yet another interesting time of potential that has its ups and downs. This is not about whether change is afoot or not, it is about how you handle it. Everyone has something they need to be more courageous about. For some, it may be about being more adventurous with relationships and opportunities, for others it may be more internal, facing old patterns of dyfunction that need to change. Whatever you are personally faced with this month, it will help to tap into more courage, trust and personal power in order to handle the challenges as well as the opportunities.

There is an underlying theme of “power” what it means to you, how you feel about your personal power, what your beliefs and attitudes are about power, it’s use, abuse, and balance. Watch your reactions around this theme and keep your focus on how you can heal your own issues around personal power instead of fretting about and judging what you witness happening “out there”. Remember this is a year of artisan creativity with lots of opportunity to reinvent and recreate both our belief systems and our structures for manifesting the life we want.

This does not have to be a time of strife and struggle. There are plenty of influences this month that can support tremendous abundance, prosperity and success in manifesting. The key will be to access your courage as well as your inner confidence and intuition that confirms you are on the right track.

I am on the right track. How about you?

I AM MY OWN MUSE

The Power Path website focuses on shamanism and indigenous wisdom, offering teachings, retreats, and training programs. It was founded by José and Lena Stevens, who have studied with shamans from Mexico and Peru. The site provides monthly forecasts, remote shamanic healing sessions, and courses on shamanic practices.