Flow.

Oftentimes I find myself searching and for what, I wish I knew. Sometimes I don't know whether I should be annoyed or angry with my lack of contentedness, or just let it be. Humans, in general, are always pursuing something, and probably a different thing at any given time; a new job, money, social acceptance, vanity, material goods, etc. As of late, my thoughts and dreams have blown up to the point where blogs that I have thought about posting seem either much too trivial or much too personal, or spacey, for lack of better words. There is much to share, but the timing is off. I'm still in discovery and wondering how to make sense of it all, as well as learning that not everything should or can be deciphered immediately. A precursor to stage 4, otherwise known as a quarter-life-crisis in upon me. Sigh.

Saturday afternoon, a surpising 65-and-sunny day graced us with her lovely presence. I haven't been spending much time at the park across the street mostly because I need to get my priorities in check. But mostly, because I've been busy; a lame, overused, festering excuse. So, I grabbed Bill Plotkin's Soulcraft (a book that I've been reading for over 2 months, because I've been too busy) and ventured outside. The warm, humid (November?) air embraced my face as if summer and I had met again, like old friends. I settled on one of the sunniest spots in the park on a cedar bench and dug in. The inner is no less real than the outer, and, although it is part of us, it is not literally inside our skin. We imagine the unconscious... WOOF. HONK, HONK! CHIRP. SCREEEEEECH.

Although the parks that sprinkle our metro area are a godsend, they are still band-aids, meant to exercise, relax and otherwise distract us from the destruction that we are causing our mother earth. Onward, ...Looked at with soulcentric eyes, every dream reveals hidden...[insert sounds of basketballs hitting concrete, baseballs hitting bats, laughter, traffic, more dogs barking, birds chirping, doors slamming here]. GAHHhh. So. hard. to. focus. After 20 minutes or so, I nearly gave up, lost all hope and almost my sanity and headed back inside to the cave that I call home. Away from all the humanity. It sounded good at the time, but that sun was just too damn good to me and us Minnesotans take our sunshine when we can get it.

Again, ...Looked at with soulcentric eyes, every dream reveals hidden potentials of our deeper lives and stories and provides the opportunity for the ego to be rooted more firmly in the soils of soul.... I looked up at a tall oak tree, I felt warm and much more relaxed. Many pages and many minutes flew by without my knowledge, without my care, without my stress, without my anxiety, without distraction. Flow. A term that is coined by psychologist, Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, as a "state of heightened focus and immersion in activities such as art, play and work." Flow, for me, usually only occurs when I'm outdoors; gardening, biking, hiking, walking, exploring, anything really. It has always been that way, especially as a young girl. Kelsey lately is on the pursuit of flow. Happiness will be not far behind.

Grasshopper

A couple of months back, we started noticing some grasshoppers in the garden. Their welcome coincided with my reading of Animal Speak by Ted Andrews, a fascinating discovery of natures voices all around us.

Those with grasshopper totems have an uncanny ability to leap into successful ventures. This becomes even more true when they learn to listen that inner voice and follow their own instincts.

Sometimes grasshoppers can show up if we are not listening or if we are afraid to make the leap off our mound. Many times such fears have to do with the fact that "no one else has done it that way." Grasshopper people have to learn to make new leaps. Life only becomes difficult when they refuse to move. At such times they may feel as if they are experiencing a scourge of themselves.

Remember a grasshopper always leaps up or forward. It doesn't leap backward.

Sunflowers!

The first sunflowers have finally graced us with their lovely, sunny presence. What started as sunflower seeds in the birdfeeder, sprouted into a not so welcome guest in my mom's flower bed. Can't wait to see the rest!

Diggin' It.

The recipe for a lovely, yet productive weekend consists of a dash of sunshine, a bit of mom time and a sprinkle, okay (I lied) a TON of gardening. Resulting in a sunburn, good times (and full bellies) and over 300 feet of planted goodness! I was so excited to finally get my hands dirty and that I did. In terms of The Peace Project, this was our very first weekend of sun and warmth, so of course we took full advantage.

Till, rake, dig, hoe, furrow, bend, plant, cover, repeat. I was sad to leave Jon back at the site to keep working on this fabulous Monday, but a bit relieved to get a little 'break' back at the office. Whew! Don't let anyone ever tell you gardening is easy, especially on a larger scale, with two workers and a tiller made in the early 90s.

Potatoes, bush beans, herbs (basil, parsley, cilantro, sage, dill) radishes, onions (red and white), spinach, leaf lettuce, sugar snap peas, cucumbers, beets, squash (zucchini, pumpkins, butternut, acorn), sweet corn, ornamental corn and pole beans (calypso and cherokee trail of tears varieties). Tomatoes (courtesy of Litchfield OVOC, One Vegetable, One Community) and peppers to come.

Note: this blog post was meant for last week, sorry guys. An update alas, Jon and I will be doing even more planting as our demonstration garden is evolving into more of a highway market than a community garden, which is super exciting. The ball is in our court again. A lot of public interest, just not enough commitment and the with mother nature's schedule, someone has to do some planting. Chameleon abilities. Peace.

Earth Day 2012

"We must protect the forests for our children, grandchildren and children yet to be born. We must protect the forests for those who can't speak for themselves such as the birds, animals, fish and trees." Qwatsinas

As a whole, the world celebrated Earth Day 2012, this past Monday. One special day, named to honor and recognize the miraculous planet that we live on. My hope is that most of us try to recognize, honor and respect the earth every day. As for me, my connection with nature and our mother earth is only becoming stronger. I have been a city dweller for the past 5 1/2 years, but mind, body and soul have pretty much stayed in the rural countryside, where I was born, raised and lived for all 18 years of prior existence. I'm longing for it and I can no longer ignore it. 

I miss the woods, trees, the fields, the birds, the green, the stars in the night sky, dirt, the crunchy leaves, butterflies and the sun. I miss it all and more. For me, it's time to transition back to the basics, back to my roots, but in my own way.

Earth Day 2012 was extra special, because after weeks of devoted composition, The Peace Project's first 'sign' of life, a true labor of love, is standing proudly; no turning back now!

Feng shui

...in the apartment has just imploded.

After receiving one very hefty quote of $500 for a professionally made sign, we decided, we've got this. A little ambitious, but it wasn't in the budget. Some particle board (free) and $30 worth of paint later and we're about 75% done with the beaut. I'm supposed to be helping my 'partner' with the second coat as we speak but, shhhhh, priorities. 'COMING!'

The plan is to have it UP, implanted in the ground this weekend; rain or shine. Hoping for rain, needing the rain, but when you're cooped up all week, it's nice to have that shine. Win some, lose some.

This is exciting, and a bit of a milestone in TPP's timeline, since it will be Litchfield's very first, physical entity or 'sign' (so to speak) of the project.

Off to paint. Peace.

Living and Breathing...

the native culture.
Before, it was all in my head, floating around like some dream cloud. But slowly, slowly, it's becoming real. Jon and I took a little weekend trip to Mankato, MN. We celebrated 5 years of love on St. Patrick's Day and wanted to do a little something special. We ended up mixing business with pleasure and actually spent the majority of our milestone day researching at the Blue Earth Historical Society. Nerds, right? We love it. Although it's basically been a second, full time job, we couldn't be more passionate about our little brain baby.

Here's what's 'dangerous' about this project. The Peace Project; the four As: call to action, awareness, activism and accountability. The more we learn, the more we expose ourselves to, the more we explore, the more we. are. changing. Personal change and growth is inevitable, but it's a turn off for a lot of people. We have learned that there is a fine line between preaching and practicing. We have also learned that there is a big difference between planning and doing, although they are both fully dependent on one another. Thankfully, we have developed a major support system through many impromptu emails, phone calls and in-person meetings; it's great to connect with those that are willing to listen as well as share what makes you tick. As more paths are crossed and more ground is covered, the inspiration only increases. Did I mention we are about a month away from planting season!? 
POTENTIAL MEMBERS: If you, or someone you know, is a Litchfield, MN native, is able to commit/tend to a garden plot for the spring/summer and partake, open-mindedly, in a series of workshops throughout the growing season, we want to hear from you!

Email Kelsey & Jon at: thepeaceprojectmn@gmail.com

Follow us on twitter: @plantpeacemn
'Like' us on facebook: www.facebook.com/plantpeace

Things.

You guys, I have been so busy lately. Good busy, to the point where I am almost OK that I am neglecting this blog; just OK though. As much as I love, love, love unleashing my inner mind and often nonsensical thoughts via head in the clouds, my head has actually been so far UP in the clouds lately, that it's been a little difficult to come down, down, down and take a second or two to fill you in on Kelsey lately. Grounded and balanced; It's good to be most of the time. But mostly, light bulb moments don't give a $#&*! as to what stage you may be at in the game, they hit you. Hard. The thing is, things are great.
Life is great, work is great, love is great. But no matter what, I always have something on my mind and that is my unsatiable urge to attempt to change certain things. I say attempt, because I am not one to expect nor acknowledge to fulfill such a task. The thing is, I know what I know and I know that I am here for a reason. I am constantly reminded that life is way too short and the time is now. Our project is coming this Spring. It has consumed me, invaded my mind, set up shop in my heart and will be my mission, because it will not be escaping me anytime soon. Things can change. Social responsibility, accountability, awareness, activism: They've become some of my favorite things. We have the land, we have the support system, the tools, the passion, the determination, the dream...but we will not succeed in our vision without help. It's funny how things change; in life, in love...in the environment..in the economy. Are you asking questions? If not, the time. is. now. Apologies in advance for simply being M.I.A., but it's time to cultivate knowledge and other, miscellaneous things.

Hanging Hearts: Origami Therapy

Valentine's Day is...tomorrow?! I am thankful and so blessed with love in my life. I am even moreso thankful that I don't feel the need to buy, buy, buy to show my love or appreciation for that special someone...but instead, make, make, make or do, do, do. Regardless, if you're still frantically trying to pull a gift idea for a valentine out of places where the 'sun don't shine,' don't fret; by using just paper, ribbon and a bit of hot glue, you'll be unstoppable!

Origami heart decor (original, I know). Although not a new concept, they are new to me. For those of you experienced in origami, you'll know that it actually is quite therapeutic. I started playing around with different origami shapes and figured that V-Day was right around the corner, so WHY NOT do hearts?!

This video isn't the greatest quality, but it's a simple method to follow. Start with notebook paper, or computer paper, until you get the hang of it. For my decor/valentines, I found cardstock to be a better fit; of course, it's not easy to work with, but definitely more sturdy (use a metal ruler or top of a candle for creases). I especially like the outcome of pairing a bold color with neutral, vintage/curvelinear patterns.

What you need:

• Assorted Cardstock (standard letter size, 8.5 x 11)
• Ribbon, twine, string (wide enough to hold glue)..
• Hot Glue Gun/Gluesticks

Fold origami hearts. Arrange into segments (3 or 5 together on a strand of ribbon work well), the more colors/patterns mixed, the more fun! Cut ribbon to desired length (it helps to lay out hearts first). Gun a dime-sized bit of glue in the center of the heart, hover it over the ribbon and catch the seeping glue on either sides of the backside with a square cut-out of cardstock. This will also help the hearts from pulling way from the ribbon, once you hang them. Surprise your valentine with something unique this year, or hang. Anywhere.

Lovetown, USA!!

I am ecstatic that the news has finally surfaced. I am even more so excited that my wonderful boss, mentor and friend, Kailen Rosenberg, will be a part of this extremely unique and challenging social experiment. Not to mention, after viewing this video made by the residents of Kingsland, Georgia during the nomination phase of the process, I am looking forward to watching deserving people be blessed with such an amazing opportunity.

Below, is what was released on Oprah's site on Monday: 

"After a nationwide search, OWN and BBC Worldwide Productions have selected Kingsland, Georgia, to be transformed into Lovetown, USA. Two expert matchmakers including the real-life "Hitch," Paul Carrick Brunson, and Kailen Rosenberg, with more than 200 successful marriages to her name and hailed as a true "love whisperer," will take over Kingsland for 30 days, helping eight singles embark on a journey to find true love in their own backyard.
From the local mayor to restaurateurs, bosses and even married couples, everyone in the town will be involved. This one-of-a-kind social experiment is the biggest dating challenge in TV history—examining the effects love can have on the DNA of one American community."

Visit http://www.oprah.com/own/Lovetown-USA-About-the-Show#ixzz1jYcNXFCU to learn more about the show and to share your thoughts with Kailen Rosenberg and OWN.

For all you twitter enthusiasts, be sure to follow @kailenrosenberg, @lovearchitects and @loveandlifeXO for Kailen Rosenberg, Lovetown, USA and Love and Life Architects updates!!
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Revolutions.

Why wait for a new year to determine motivators for needed change? Ok, I admit I'm a bit late, but (refer to list below) these took a while. I feel as though I am constantly making small changes in my life to satiate diverse aspects of my life. Hence the name of my blog, there is no way I could keep track of ALL of these; thank god for archives.

Regardless, some personal, consistent resolutions:

1. Listen more, and truly listen.
2. See the good in everything – maintain a glass that’s half full.
3. Rise above the bad and avoid 'risky' situations all together.
4. Always be aware. Mouth closed, eyes open.
5. Be conscious of the beautiful environment we were blessed with – plant a community garden (this summer in the homeland), reduce, reuse, recycle always and inform others of their important role in making the world a better place. Every tree planted, every bottle recycled, helps.
6. Be conscious of what my body is coming into contact with; clothes, cosmetics, food, etc. – buy local, support small shops; do away with toxicity (be it unhealthy food, unnecessary consumerism, harmful relationships, etc.).
7. Be more artistic;  construct treasure from trash, learn to crochet, paint; thank you craftgawker, pinterest..
8. Reaquaint myself with a consistent, spiritual routine.
9. Ease into some regular form of exercise: yoga, biking, running? ....I'm human (refer to 12).
10. Don't overanalyze.
11. Don’t preach to an unwilling choir; mainly practice and educate those willing to follow my lead.
12. Be human. Rome wasn't built in a day.
13. Give more compliments. One compliment per one stranger per day.
14. Don't blink. Live in the moment and know that not one moment will be the same ever again.
15. Read more.
16. First seek to understand, then to be understood.
17. Never take for granted the little things.
18. Smile. Cry when I need to…and smile more.
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Yet Another Reason to Love IKEA..

With the exception of the blue pot (Bachman's), everything is from IKEA. Cacti, $2.99 each. Pots, $1.00 each. Rocks, $1.50/2lb bag. Boom. Saharan desert, meet Antarctica. Hey, if I can't get it outside, I'll try anything. Also, avoid getting poked during the transportation, transplantation process. It hurts.

DIY: Tissue Paper Pom-Poms

So simple. So sweet.

Feeling inspired after noticing an 8 pack kit at Michael's for $12, I figured I'd try a hand in making these for my parent's 25th wedding anniversary party. I couldn't have been happier with the results ~ they were quite a hit and are perfect for any occasion. Instead of wire, I used pipe cleaners and finished them off with some silver spray paint. Here's an easy tutorial, http://www.marthastewart.com/how-to/tissue-paper-pom-poms-how-to. Happy POM-ing!

Stereo Heart.

The other night, JJB and I were feeling a little antsy and decided to take a stroll down to Minnehaha Falls. This destination is one we frequent, often...it's a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city - it also reminds me a great deal of home. On this little adventure, we tried something a little different. Instead of the usual conversing back and forth, we decided to try ipods and ear buds for a bit. Turns out, it was simply fabulous.
One might assume that listening to personal music devices would detract from the togetherness of the situation. On the contrary, I discovered that this was a marvelous idea - JJB's might I add. Initially, I was a little taken aback by it. I then realized that effective communicaion does not merely involve spoken words. We were so much more in tune with eachother: holding hands and making eye contact, for starters, increased ten-fold. As our auditory perceptions were distracted, our other senses rose to a similar (much higher than usual) level. For all you non-believers, giive it a try!
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CALLING ALL SINGLES!!!

A Private Search is Currently Underway!

An exciting opportunity is taking place for local singles, as we are conducting a Private Soulmate Search on behalf of four of our Elite Clients on Wednesday, September 14^th and Thursday, September 15^th.

Join Kai-len Love and Life Architects for an informal "meet and greet" where you will have the opportunity to get to know Kailen Rosenberg and her team. We look forward to meeting you and learning more about yourself to see if you might be a match for one of our fabulous clients. As always, this is NOT going to be a mixer where you are actually meeting our clients and it’s NOT a cattle call like you may have seen on “Millionaire Matchmaker.”

For Eligible Bachelorettes: We will be meeting at our Wayzata office (810 East Lake Street) on Wednesday, September 14^th from 5-7 PM or by appointment at our firm. Champagne, small bites and gift bags for attendees, while supplies last!

For Eligible Bachelors: We will be meeting at our office in Wayzata (810 East Lake Street) on Thursday, September 15^th from 5–7 PM or by appointment at our firm. Bring your friends and enjoy an import beer!

For more information, please call 952-544-5683 and ask for Michelle.

Homemade Vegetarian Broccoli Cheese Soup

A personal spin on a recipe I found called, Panera Broccoli Cheese Soup, courtesy of Food.com (love this site). Of course, there was a ton of positive feedback just luring me in...and I was raised on one of the best cheesey soups ever; thanks mom. However, sometimes you just have to figure things out for yourself and find your own way of doing it, the 'second-best' way. But mostly, I was craving it - - which is always good enough of a reason for me to cook anything. It has finally cooled down a bit here in MN, and although some might consider me crazy for wanting to make a hot soup during the summer, I see it as fabulous timing. Between what I had in the pantry and what I found in the garden, I had to buy two things: half-n-half and sharp cheddar cheese. It's really a perfect course for this time of the year - broccoli, carrots, potatoes, peas and beans are all pretty much in full force.

Here's the deal:
Serves 8
1 tsp melted butter
1/2 medium chopped red onion
1/4 c melted butter
1/2 c flour - then add to desired thickeness
3 1/4 c half-n-half cream
3 c vegetable broth
2 1/2 - 3 c fresh broccoli
2 c carrots - coined
1/2 c fresh peas - out of pod
1/2 c green beans
a sprinkle of nutmeg *careful
8.5 oz. sharp cheddar - the bolder, the better
salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1] Sauté onion in butter. Set aside.
2] Cook melted butter and flour using a whisk over medium heat for 3-5 minutes.
3] Stir constantly and add the half-n-half.
4] Add the vegetable broth. Simmer for 20 minutes.
5] Add the VEG: broccoli, carrots, potatoes, peas, beans and onions. Cook over low heat 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
6]  Add salt and pepper. Remove from heat and add cheese. To avoid curdling, especially if you're using low fat goodies (HOPE NOT!), do not heat/boil soup after adding cheese.
7] Stir in nutmeg.
I know this will now be my GO-TO recipe for years to come - honestly! It turned out fabulous - took a little time and babysitting, but it was well worth it!

Pair with a your favorite dipping bread and you have a lovely meal - ideal for any season!

Brandon Werth Photography

Quite possibly my most favorite photographer. EVER.
A fellow graduate from AI, this man never ceases to amaze me. Katie, a friend from school, had Brandon take her engagement photos (Saturday Morning Pancakes), as well as her beautiful wedding photos. I am in love.

I was showing JJB last night, and I think he's secretly in love too - wonder how long Brandon books in advance? Hmm..
Check out more of his fabulous work: www.brandonwerth.com
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New Job!

At the beginning of July, I started a new position as the Life Design Concierge at Love and Life Architects in Wayzata, MN - I could not be more thrilled. It's such a great fit, mostly because I agree 100% with everything they do and stand for, as a company. They have welcomed me with open arms into their family and I am already learning so much. Kailen Rosenberg is the company founder and is such an inspiration. Every time I see this video: http://www.kai-len.com/press/ I smile. I love her positive persona and her hardworking demeanor. As you can tell, I am looking forward to growing with Love and Life Architects and am excited to see what the future will bring! To new beginnings!
Check out the Love and Life Architects WEBSITE

Simple Beauty.

These were taken in Two Harbors, MN: Beyond touristy areas, lies untouched wonders.