My first blog post for Little Mandala Farm already feels a bit overwhelming. I am trying to temper my inner excitement with a measured sense of reality, but there are so many positive, wonderful things happening. It’s a challenge.
Sweet Harmony
On Friday, Ed and I received something that we both wanted, neither needed, but after 24 years we felt like we had earned … Our wedding rings. They are both very beautiful and fit each of our personalities as well as our holistic styles. My ring is made from white gold and the stone is an opal accented by 2 very tiny sapphires, and 2 very tiny diamonds. The design in the ring is called Garden Gate. Ed has metal sensitivities, so his ring is a combination of chromium cobalt with a hammered sterling silver. We worked with Tom who owns Rings Unique at Clarksville Pottery right by the Central Market on North Lamar. An extremely enjoyable experience, and we couldn’t be happier with the outcome.
Saturday was my final day of classes at the Natural Epicurean Academy of Culinary Arts, a six month intensive plant-based program that focuses on health supportive cooking.
Me at my NEACA Graduation
It culminated with a final event that our class hosted and catered for friends, family and the school. Our theme was “The Art of Healthy Eating” and it turned out beautifully – the food and the decor were both really impressive and delightful. I was honored to have been nominated by my class to serve as Chef for the event, it was a really special way to transition a significant moment in my life.
On Sunday Ed and I went to look at a piece of property that we are already dangerously attached to. Getting ready to see if we can actually make an offer on this and make it a real thing. It’s really everything we could ever want. Almost 7 acres, less than 25 minutes outside of Austin, property facing the Colorado River, rolling, grassy, farmable land, with beautiful trees. Thank you Universe that this land even exists, much less even potentially be our home. We’ll see if our hopes are properly aligned. (And save pics for later!!)
Today I interviewed for a marketing position at a local, organic farm here in Austin. They called me this evening to tell me that I was being offered the position. I am literally stunned. It can’t be this good. Can it? Can life really align this well? I have always said – and believed that the Universe would align when I was truly ready. When WE were ready. And it seems to be true.
Little Mandala Farm 
love you, Steph. Always have, always will. This is awesome. congrats on this next leg of the flight.
Love you too and miss you. and thank you. We’re really curious to see where this takes us, but it already seems very natural and right. Stay tuned… 🙂
Stephanie, What an inspiring, joyous first entry! But I must say, your comments may not have been “tempered” to the degree you may have hoped: your inner excitement and joy flowed through and “infected” your Auntie Stella Joyce!! Congratulations are in order for so much: 1) Graduate from The Natural Epicurean Academy of Culinary Arts 2) Your new wedding bands and all it symbolizes 3) Discovery of beautiful property…fingers crossed 4) Your new position of Marketing Director of The Little Mandala Farm WOW. The Universe has indeed aligned for Stephanie and Ed. The universe has aligned only because your dream became a goal, you worked hard together to accomplish that goal, the dream is reality! We are proud of you. As Mama Liz would have said, “Hallelujah”!!! We love you both.
Aunt Joyce – You’re so sweet and I appreciate your support and enthusiasm! I can’t wait to host our first big family celebration – and yes, fingers are still crossed on getting the land. But we are working hard towards that with optimism!! (I can hear Mama Liz now ♥) Thank you for your comment!
Proud of you. Could not have happened to a better couple. The universe works in mysterious ways and it truly is your time. Enjoy the good Karma brought to you.
Kelly – Thank you and I agree about the mysteriousness of the universe, I just continue to focus on gratitude and progress. Thank you for reading!!