Tag: nature

Posted on

Kyoto Culture

Fushimi-Ku

In the Fushimi Ward of Kyoto City, one will find the Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, which has a long history and is the best place to see torii gates. Torii gates are traditionally found at the entrance of or within a Shinto shrine, and symbolically marks the transition from the mundane to the sacred. The beautiful red color exemplifies vitality and protection against evil.

The history of this shrine can be traced to the year 711, and grew to importance in the Edo period during the 17th and 18th centuries, as a prospering economic nation. The Inari shrines became a place for Japanese merchants to communicate their prayers for successful businesses’ so; the Inari people donated funds for the construction of torii gates along the paths from the main shrine’s buildings to the top of Mount Inari.

Another symbol of the shrine are the numerous statues of foxes, which are regarded as the messengers of Inari, these statues often hold a key in their mouths. And, after hiking through forest to the top of the mountain, you are extremely aware of leaving the daily grind behind, allowing you to enjoy your natural surroundings.

Breathe deeply and enjoy,
Kathleen

Posted on

Thanksgiving Playlist

Recently, I surveyed friends to find most of them still enjoy the holidays, as it gives reason to abandon routine, create new traditions and to celebrate with family and friends. There is a simple beauty that comes from harvesting our garden then bringing the produce to the table.

I’ve been scurrying the last week shopping, prepping, cooking and cleaning, in order to have Heath comfortably inviting for the holidays, and while the work load appears to have increased so, has my playlist of music to make light of such daunting tasks.

And though it’s cold in the mid-Atlantic there’s nothing more enjoyable than walking in the crisp evening air after a day of intense work, watching the first stars appear, and listening to fab tunes…. enjoy!!!!

      • Flirt [Russell Malone]
      • To Bud Powell [Chucho Valdes]
      • Perfection [Murray & Allen & Carrington Power Trio
      • First Time I Met the Blues [Buddy Guy]
      • I Love You Baby [HTHAZE Feat. Cody T]
      • Little Feet [Jane Bunett and Maqueque]
      • Autumn Leaves [Orrin Evans]
      • I Wish You Love- Part 1 & 2 [Joe Bataan
      • Temptation [Tito Puente]
      • Te Vas [Pete Escovedo]
      • Certain Shades of Limelight [Swing Out Sister]
      • Dreamy [Henry Mancini]

Braving the cold while enjoying the sculpture fountains at Lake Anne Center in Reston!!!

Happy Monday,
K