It seems I prefer to run in the winter. There's something about the cool air and shorter days that compels me to put on my running shoes and run. As a part of my cool-down process I always stop by my neighborhood park. My favorite thing to do is to take some time and breaths at this musical installation and play. Sometimes the local folks gather to watch and listen. Sometimes it draws in children to explore this instrument themselves. Yet, most times the park is mostly empty and I get to enjoy playing this instrument all by myself. Here is a little glimpse into my post-run musical cool down. #happysaturday

    David Jones better known as David Bowie has gracefully returned to the eternal cosmic dance on Sunday, January 10th, 2016.  An 18 month long battle with cancer would claim his life at age 69, just 2 days after his birthday. He was surrounded by loved ones in his home in Manhattan, New York City, NY. David Bowie's work is remarkable, and his career transcends many of his peers in that his ability to innovate, create, re-create, and re-define not only his looks, but also his music is what makes his work timeless and propels his work to live on. Unbeknownst to me as a child I knew many of his popular songs, like "Let's Dance," "Little China Girl," and more. Yet, I was first enamored with Mr. Bowie in his leading role as Jareth, "The Goblin King," in Jim Hensen's "Labyrinth."  I was memorized by his voice, presence, style, and eyes, but more specifically he stole my heart with the following scene:  

   Once I learned the lyrics as a child they have never left my mind or heart. ​Farewell, Mr. David "Bowie" Jones. Thank you for being a legend, an inspiration, and for the gift of your life and creatively artistic talents.  The world loves you, and so do I. 

     It is the first Monday of 2016. While most folks went back to work, or perhaps school, normal life resumed. The holidays are officially over. Personally, I am dancing with job insecurity, and financial instability, and yet my belief and practice in trusting that the Universe will continue to provide for me gives me more free time than most folks. I accept. It is in this free time or on these free days that I can tune into life, tune into the day, and let life flow and unfold.

     Originally, I was supposed to wake up early and go hiking. My friend rescheduled; I went back to bed. When I awoke and got out of bed at 10 AM with my phone still on silent but in hand I saw that to my surprise I had an incoming call from one of my male best friends. This man is and always has been an integral inspirational person in my life. I call him Obi-1, because in 2010 he mentored me on and off the mountain for snowboarding, and also in life.  After we hung up my soul flames were lit and I started to burn with the day. Our friendship is enhancing for us on many levels. He is Aries, I am Leo, we share fire. Fire is important during this time. It is important to keep that inner fire lit because it is winter. We each need to be seen, to be supported, and to be heard. Sometimes a phone call is all it takes. Like lighter fluid, a good friend can light up your flame. 

     Let us welcome and embrace this time of winter in whatever way we can. For me, some days I do nothing, or I rest a lot. Today, I spent my day doing some dancing and moving, some yoga and breathing. I prepared some food for the day. At one point I found myself singing, as I do a lot, and a song came out.  Also, I could "hear" the accompanying drum as I was singing. So I picked up the drum, set my intention, and played from the heart. Powerful vibrations. Then, I decided to share this medicine and my energy by capturing it because maybe there are souls ready to receive it. Love, peace, forgiveness, and tenderness are woven into this intentional, freestyle piece. Lots of love. Enjoy. <3