Paintings are subtle like altars. Modern art never appealed to me before but revisiting the Guggenheim and MOMA of New York the aura of the paintings reveals more than the picture itself.

If you haven't yet seen the "bodies exhibit" of cadavers frozen in time hold your heart during the exhibition; it's eerie but fascinating. The inside of the body is an important journey for meditation.

Our living bodies are made of water and sweetness. We were so happy to stay with Anya and Raghu. She says that pink lets the good energy in but without the bad energy. It makes me think of a painting by Georgie O'keefe.

Dogwoods, elderberries, black cherries, and crab apples were fruiting in central park. In the cracks of the sidewalk, beautiful medicines and grains are growing. Amaranth, mugworts, smartweeds.

I ate the best cannoli of my life (again) at cafe Reggio after visiting a Chinese market under the brooklyn bridge.

As I return to my family home I recognize old patterns. I trust myself and believe I've already shed the layers and try not to be afraid. If I look closer at my surroundings I realize I am "seeing myself". Bless the reminders.

Large Italian American Families. Grandpa is doing okay after his heart operation; he comes over for dinner and we trade recipes like eggplant parmesian. As I spend time with him I am also reminded the only way to experience true love is by loving my family; because true loves eventually become family...

The next month I'll be traveling to Boston, New York City, Pennsylvania, and New Paltz. Let me know if you'd like to enjoy a meal or a few moments together.

Some new links...

Joyful Belly Journal
* Handouts for ayurvedic diet / food / notes
* Ayurveda for New York City, Asheville
* Highlights of Ayurvedic / Yoga Psychology

Joyful Belly
* My favorite Joyful Belly recipe this month is saffron and walnut bread!
* New Joyful Belly recipes include ayurveda notes about health.

Love,
Joseph