Contemplation

I've been reading "The New Seeds of Contemplation" by Thomas Merton and am inspired by his deeper definition of contemplation.  I consider myself (and my husband) a contemplative, but this book challenges not only contemplation of life, but a way of living it out. The nature of this breakthrough is an awakening to a new level of reality. It cannot be taught, it must be experienced. It is a deep transcendent self that awakens only in contemplation. Not just self-efficacy, self-awareness, mindfulness, intention or the object of calculated ambition; contemplation by Merton's definition is "the living water of the spirit we thrist for, like a hunted deer thirsting after a river in the wilderness." This comes from deep within. Genuine contemplation is incompatible with complacency.

Our response to life circumstance is a reflection of our interior life and posture of our heart. God's love seeks awakening of our inner self, our interior life. I am reminded to take risks of faith to make choices that deliver me from my routine self and open the door of a new being and a new reality! I am only on chapter 5 of 39, so I joyfully continue on this journey...

"For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks" Luke 6:45

Food: Samosas and Dahl Soup

I love cooking... for my family, my friends and myself. Oh, what joy for the heart and food for the soul there is in sharing a delicious meal with good company! Here's a yummy Indian meal inspired by Mom Norden...
SPICY CHICKPEA SAMOSAS WITH RAITA

DAHL (LENTIL) SOUP
  1 1/2 cups red or yellow lentils, rinsed
  6 cups chicken or vegetable stock
  1 tsp canola oil
  1 tsp turmeric
  1 tsp cumin
  1 tsp curry powder
  1 tsp garlic
  1/2 tsp cayenne
  1/4 tsp cardamom
In a big pot, bring lentils and stock to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer 30 minutes. In a small pan on high heat, combine oil and spices for a few minutes. Add to lentils. Use hand blender and blend soup to desired texture and consistency.

Arts & Crafts

I got an account with Pinterest and was inspired by all the fun arts, crafts, recipes and ideas! Is 10 months old too early to start Mia on arts and crafts? Only one way to find out! We started with Mia's first Valentine's Day, trying to capture tiny hands and feet for daddy. This didn't turn out as I had hoped, but we laughed and captured memories trying (okay, it was just me laughing as Mia and Rooney really had no idea what was going on). Next time we will stick with the classic Plaster of Paris mold. Here's a snapshot of our Valentine fun...

Happy Valentine's Day, Daddy!