I've got to say I'm pretty lucky to know a neat handful of pretty inspiring people. I know I say it a lot, but I just can't say it enough: gratitude runs deeply in my being and though I'm just like everyone else and forget sometimes, it's a pretty regular thing for me to stop in my day and simply declare out loud that I am full of thanks (yes I talk out loud). Full of thanks, and full of love.. and no matter what the tough stuff in life is....I believe it's all exists to highlight this truth (that we have everything we need within or around us already) even further. But back to those inspiring people I know.
When it comes to athletics, I'm not afraid to admit that while I love exercise (and can't go too long without it), I'm a gal that finds my true heart & passion lays elsewhere. I'm married to an athletically minded guy, and a good percentage of our friends are the same, spending hours (and hours and hours....trust me) on the bike or on the mountain or pounding it out on the road as a way of life: it's their truth. Living in Vancouver sort of makes it seem natural (what with our surroundings and all), but I'm proud to say that a good handful of these people are truly gifted folks who work hard to be at the top of their game. It's impressive.
These people inspire me in so many ways that I wouldn't know where to start. I can try by saying that the love of my life has been doing just this for 15 years, and every time he comes home on a Saturday with mud on his face I crack a smile and laugh knowing he's just out there doing his thing. It makes him whole, and happy. I've long said I'd rather him happy for less time than grumpy and uninspired for more time. Seems simple, and for us it really is. Win win.
I believe in the power of sport to transform, and while it's not my time now to invest too heavily (and may never be), I've simply got to say that props go out to all my athletically driven friends - from the bottom of my heart, for the example they set for the rest of us everyday. For the joy, the learning, the character building & the depths of the soul that are turned inside out in the process that is sport, or whatever you passion is. For going for it, and for the willingness to face fear & pain head on.....and prevail.
Above all, knowing that it is what you live for and for doing it every day. Inspiring stuff, to say the very least.
Pineapple Kiwi Green Smoothie with Coconut Milk
- (1/2) Tree ripened pineapple, cored & chopped
- (3) ripe kiwis
- (2) lightly packed cups baby spinach, washed
- (1) ripe navel orange, peeled
- (1) can full fat coconut milk, or 2 cups coconut beverage (such as So Nice)
- (5-6) ice cubes
Combine all the ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth and silky. Serve cold right away. This recipe makes a fair amount, and if you are alone I suggest halving the recipe to start. Depending on your appetite and whether you are eating this with something or not, this smoothie will serve about 3-4 with the amounts as is. Rest assured, leftovers will keep refrigerated in a tightly sealed jar and can be made fresh again by blending the next day with a few ice cubes in the blender.
