Times are a’changing

“I learned this, at least, by my experiment: that if one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, and endeavors to live the life which he has imagined, he will meet with a success unexpected in common hours.” – Thoreau

A life in transition, it may seem if by my absence in this space that I have neglected my calling; to experience, live and question, “What about the food?” Au contraire.

These last six months have been intentional, planned and conceived to help me transition to my next life phase, from working technology stiff to a woman with time.

 “The journey of a thousand miles begins beneath one’s feet.” – Lau Tzu

And then you move forward.

Retired. I am too young to have worked so many years. Thank you AARP and the first wave of Baby Boomers who have reinvented the definition of the word and launched themselves into a “Second Career.” I am intoxicated with the notion of time. Time to follow my passion with a work ethic and competitiveness honed in years of industry. It is too big to say I am pursuing a dream; that is far too specific, a complete vision where the journey culminates in a singular moment, no doubt with bubbly, confetti, and music. Just an end to a means. No, it is rather a direction derived of my curiosity of people and their foods with the many moments that is life.

“This is the real secret of life — to be completely engaged with what you are doing in the here and now. And instead of calling it work, realize it is play.” ― Alan Wilson Wat

I have much to catch you up on, my adventures, travels, and flavors, as I have been living, learning and stretching. All the while, collecting stories and images, just waiting to share.

A sampling of the last two months.

Tasted and delighted in the Wines of Monterey County

Traveled to Italy, visited dear friends in Montone

then taxing my brain at a creative workshop —  Plated Stories,  in an effort to improve both writing and photography.

I traveled to Pienza

and made Le Casacce home for my Tuscan travels.

Heading home via London and connecting again, friendships nourished within a entirely different city.

There is so much to tell.