Thursday, January 28, 2010

Sedona, the red town, the spiritual town!


Sedona, red town, spiritual town....!

Located in central Arizona and about two hours south of the Grand Canyon, Sedona is one of the jewels of the United States. Travelers discovering this city for the first time are really amazed.

Sedona is nestled in Oak Creek Canyon. Its richness resides in the red landscapes and high energy of its vortexes.
The rock formations shift their color shades from red coral, pink, golden brown, and burgundy depending on the time of the day. Colors are striking due to iron in the sandstone and limestone rock.

Some rocks are named after their shape: Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock, Coffee Pot.

These extraordinary old red rocks, (1.8 billion years) are the result of sedimentation and erosion. Sedona has been completely covered by an ocean several times. It is not uncommon to find sea shells while hiking.

Some of these places are filled with a channeled and amplified energy. These sites are called 'vortexes'. These vortexes are said to enhance meditation, prayer, visualization, inspiration and creativity.

Thursday, January 14, 2010

Surrounded by beauty: Abiquiu


Abiquiu is located north west of Santa Fe, NM.

While we were watching Europe and the East coast dealing with 'El Nino' and an unusual amount of snow and storms, New Mexico was waiting for more snow to fully enjoy our ski resorts!

Meanwhile this gave us the opportunity to share a ride with my friends Fred and Sol in a stunning and inspiring landscape.

We went horseback riding last week in Georgia O'Keeffe country. Breathtaking views, petroglyphs, and nice company. Abiquiu is an area that I especially like and where you can easily rejuvenate.

New Mexico is said to be “the land of enchantment”, and it takes on all its meaning when you are in Abiquiu. This land and the surrounding area are absolutely gorgeous, magical! You feel the sacred of Mother Earth.

The shape of the mesa, the hills, and the colors, everything is inspiring.
It inspired many painters; Georgia O’Keeffe is the most well known. In fact, it is difficult not to talk about Georgia O’Keeffe when talking about Abiquiu and vice versa.

O'Keeffe was fond of this landscape and painted it many times, especially ‘the Cerro Pedernal’. She even wrote to her friend that: ”God told her that if she painted it enough, he would give it to her” – Her ashes were scattered on its top.

For those who do not know Georgia O’Keeffe well, do not miss the museum dedicated to her in Santa Fe. She is a major American artist, and this museum pays her a beautiful tribute.

Abiquiu includes a reservoir that creates a lake and enhances the view of the beautiful surroundings. It became a recreation area where many come to enjoy themselves during the warm months of summer.

During winter, horseback riding in the area is extremely enjoyable. It feels like you are blending with nature, being one with the horse among such beauty. Whether you are an artist or not, you can’t help but be inspired.

There are many hikes in the Abiquiu area, short or long and strenuous, there is something for everyone. You can also spend a few days there just relaxing and reconnecting with this sacred nature.

Ghost Ranch is a famous retreat and educational center where you can stay. This site was once a hiding place for two men who stole horses. To be sure nobody would come there, they spread the word that ghosts haunted this place. The name stuck!

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

Magic Through Music


What a terrific evening! On a Sunday evening we went with some friends listening to Robert Mirabal a flute maker and flute player, native of Taos Pueblo and two times Grammy awards!

I am writing this note listening to his music to retrieve the spirit of this magic evening.
We met with my friends Dorota and Denise, here in the picture are the three of us!
I was so excited, inspired and in admiration of this man!

The energy that radiates from him is very special. It is powerful and very soft at the same time. His messages are beautiful; you feel his love, passion and pride for his heritage and culture and his enthusiasm for sharing it all.

This is such a perfect example of success in following your heart and passion. I wish that all of you will be able to deeply connect with your own talent, passion, and that each of you has your purpose that you need to share with the rest of us. Please do.
Like Wayne Dyer said: "Don't die with your music inside".

Whatever your passion or talent is, share it with the world.
Following this inspiring evening we found a 'motto' for this 2010 New Year that we decided to live up to: Be Fearless!

So this will be my challenge and big move for this year to come. Being fearless and stepping into greatness. And I am looking forward to sharing extraordinary journeys with you.