self portrait challenge ~ environment

me in my kitchen, canon digital rebel xti

This months self portrait challenge is us in our environment.

Today has been a divine day. I walked for a long while on the beach listening to the Weepies on my iPod. Then I laid down a towel, sat up and watched all the kiddies learn how to surf with a cool organization called Surf Diva's. I know...only in Southern Cali.

I then took leisurely strolls through the aisles of Whole Foods Market to get some organic goodies for our next few meals. I usually run in and out and rarely take time to discover all their sweet funky products. Today I spent over an hour in there and stocked up on some healthy munchies for our camping trip next week.

I then came home and before I showered all the sand off, prepared for our dinner tonight. Anyone that has known me a long time knows that it is crazy that I am doing this. I never used to cook. Didn't enjoy it and never once thought about preparing a meal hours in advance!

I am a whole new me in the kitchen nowadays. I enjoy the process of cutting up and marinating...and taking my time. I know I am keeping our bodies alive and well with the special foods we prepare. It's sacred to me now. A way of being grateful to our Mother Earth and the nourishment provided for us.

Up above is a portrait of me today. If you were standing near me you'd smell ocean in my hair and see sand all over my skin. I worked hard all weekend and it felt good to play today.

I love where I live.