Push it down, put it away; it’s all going to go away someday. Sugar coat it so I don’t feel it, why does it matter anyway?
Layers upon layers, I’m starting to unravel this mystery inside that has just begun the travel. That is the travel from my mind, to my heart, to my intuition and then to the rhythm of my soul.
The door is shut, my space is empty. The lights go off and I finally feel at home. Feelings come one by one, floating to the surface like little bubbles gasping for air. Their voices become a scream and a blare, after too much time being unheard, they all need to speak now.
I know they need the air and I run to the walls for support, the feelings are here to help me with their story – I hold onto this thought. Although, thoughts have started to disappear, it’s my gut that’s gotten real loud.
With each feeling, there is a similar connection – embrace. Embrace the change, embrace the ups and downs, embrace my intuition’s voice (feelings/emotion) and embrace life’s light and darkness. Only then can I transform, because vision is one thing, inner-standing is another.
My little mind tries to grab control, as if diving into my feelings isn’t productive. My higher self kicks in and this electricity runs through my body – there is nothing more productive than a conversation with emotion.
As my feelings take the front seat again, I am reminded that there is a difference between acceptance and embracing. Embracing is hugging and appreciating each obstacle, feeling or rocky moment in the most genuine way. Acceptance choosing something as my reality and just living with it. The main difference is simply this – embracing, I create my reality, acceptance, I let my reality happen.
Feelings, I thank you and I hear you. When you come, I am embracing you and listening to you all the way. I am grateful for your kind reminder of my true power, I feel my fire burning. I know you’re always there, and your purpose brings me comfort.
I choose to embrace, because only then can I see my journey’s grace, let go of fear’s chase and remember destiny is mine to ace.
When I sat down to write, I heard a lyric in a song about sugar-coating. And I intended to write something along the lines of that, but this turned out to be something completely different. That’s the beauty of writing, it’s not just your fingers on the keys, it’s your soul’s voice that echoes on the tips of your hands. Be fearless and free -Ace
There’s this ocean, it’s different than most. This ocean is a circle and the waves flow round and round until eventually they exit through the abyss. Like a whirlpool, this ocean is deep; the abyss is eternal bliss.
A wave comes, circling and circling until it dives into the abyss, gone forever, no wave like that will ever return. Sure, similar waves will come, but it won’t be exactly the same ever again. When the wave crashes on the ocean floor, it lays to rest and finds it’s peace.
This powerful circle connects to the magic of the Universe while staying grounded in its purpose. It can be smooth, it can be rough; it all depends on the outlook. The sun shines on this ocean, its light fuels the tides. The wild waves leave the sun hidden behind the myst, but the Universe and eternity within this oceanic field, always finds its way back home.
Some days are monotonous and tiring, but most days are bright and loving. No matter what, this circle keeps giving and the sun will always rise.
This ocean has always been my mind, the waves representing my thoughts. When the waves crash on the abyss, I get a moment of clarity, while another wave begins to roar again. The sun, has always been my soul, illuminating the magical and honest thoughts, but, showing me which ones aren’t worth my attention. With this ocean of my mind, and this sun of my soul – life is mine to soar. -Ace
I’m coming back to you Whether you like it or not I’m done letting this spark rot You, within, I’m calling your name Setting aside this game Starting a new one Let’s be a team Like I see in the dream Our light is starting to gleam Vulnerability is key Allowing me to be me And you to be you Our past went and flew Just like that, this game has begun Our connection didn’t diminish Will we ever finish? I think this game will last forever As long as we stick together I’ll never surrender For this Universal chord Will always keep us in touch with the board Ace
Colors dancing in the wind, some vivid, others blurry. Bright and alive, blue makes me smile bringing back memories of the waves in my journey. Red, so vibrant but reminding me of people who use power in backwards ways. Purple always lets me feel emotion, connecting me to the depths of my intuition. Yellow makes my soul flow with joy and flashes of the grand sun charge me with energy. Green makes me grateful for Gaia and all the trees that hug me daily. Pink calls to my heart, but, my eyes see its hues in the sunsets. Black brings me comfort in knowing all shades are within me, while white brings its clean, classic and elegant aura. I’m sure there are many more I have not yet seen.
All the colors my eyes present bring a peace to my being and a joy to my mind. Sometimes, the simple things make the biggest leaps.
Acing The Kitchen is out now!! Go check it out and let me know your thoughts!!
So, when did you start this project and how did you get the idea?
I started this in early December. I don’t know, it just kind of came to me. I remember sitting on the couch and getting my mom’s opinion about it, she loved it because this cookbook really shows a entire new side to me. That night I made the cover and the polenta video and it just happened from there!
How hard is it to make these videos?
Oh it’s very hard. It’s crazy to try and get all the pictures I need, plus edit them while cooking and then on top of that make the dish! It’s an exhausting process. After I’d finish getting the pictures and making the meal, I couldn’t just let the content sit, so, I’d get on my computer and make the video. I’m such a perfectionist and I like things to be done! 🤪 I wanted the pictures to look nice too, so my kitchen constantly had to be clean, I had to use a lot of dishes (shout out to my family for pitching in with the cleanup, thank you 😊) and getting the right angles so there’d be no shadows was also challenging. But, as hard as it was, it’s a super cool process. Watching the video come together in the end makes it all worth it. I had a lot of encouragement from my family and my cousin so, that helped me keep going. Thank you family, I appreciate you!!
What’s your favorite recipe?
My favorite recipe has to be the Chickpea Fritters, not my favorite video, but my favorite recipe. The fritters are so delicious and they are pretty simple to make. They’re crispy and flavorful and the sauce brings it all together. They are definitely a family favorite!!
What’s your favorite video?
Around The World Tapas for sure! That was a nightmare video to make, oh my god, I’d never do it again! 🤪 But it came together so well, I truly love that video.
When did you know that you were finished with the cookbook?
Honestly, I’d have made this cookbook 100 videos long. I have so many more recipes to share, but, I really didn’t think people would watch it if it was any longer and I don’t blame them, that’d be a long long post. 🤪 I think I was done making food videos and I started a few new projects so, I was ready to move on. I felt it was pretty well rounded and had a lot of variety, I don’t know, something inside of me was like, “It’s complete.”
Did you try any new recipes for this cookbook?
Oh for sure. I’d say half of them are new and half are classic recipes I’ve made a lot. The one that was most out of comfort zone was the “Authentic Ramen”. I despise instant ramen, but my friend kind of inspired me to give real ramen a shot. That recipe, honestly, surprised me.
So, how about some fun cooking questions, in general?
Let’s do it!!
Favorite food?
That’s such a broad question 😂. I love pasta and power bowls because of all the variations. But, my favorite veggie is broccolini and my favorite cuisine is Italian for sure.
When did you start cooking and why?
I’d been watching a lot of Tasty videos, I still watch Tasty a lot for cooking inspiration. I highly recommend that app to anyone no matter where you are in your cooking journey, it has so much content. But anyways, I was 11, I think, and I just decided to go for it. I used to loved to bake, so I was familiar with cooking and such. But trying savory for the first time, I just immediately loved how you didn’t have to measure everything and how you could be done in such a short amount of time. I made Power Bowls as my first dish and here we are!
Does your family like to cook?
Yes, we all do! My brother not as much, but my parents and I love it! We cook together a lot, breakfast, lunch, dinner; you name it! It’s such a fun activity to do together, we all have our special things we like to make. My mom is the master of childhood favorites, my dad is the best sous chef and he makes an excellent pasta, power bowls are my thing and my brother, well he sticks with hummus and pesto and that’s it! 😂
Craziest kitchen accident?
Oh jeez, long story and traumatic experience short 😂, I’d just got an immersion blender and I was setting it up. I plugged it in, my left index finger was under the blade and you can guess what happened next. I ended up having 14 stitches in my little finger. Such a painful experience, living with 14 stitches for weeks was not pleasant, having them removed was just the worst experience of my life. Ugh, it sucked and my finger has the weirdest scar, it still hurts at times. I got super lucky in not damaging any nerves or worse, losing my finger; thank you Universe! I was back in the kitchen soon after, I’ve just never touched or looked at an immersion blender since then, it’s been almost 2 years. 😂
Any advice to new cooks out there?
I’d say, start by cooking what you love. Follow a recipe to begin with, but don’t rely on it. The best part of cooking is the creative zone you get in while making a meal; following a recipe doesn’t give you that rush of creative energy. Learn your knife skills really well and trust your instincts. Also, do NOT put your finger under any blades and then plug in the machine 😂😂.
Any future cookbooks?
For sure, I think they’ll be themed and I have a few ideas. This is just the beginning, I hope people go try some recipes! In a time where life is very strange, cooking is something we can really hold onto.
So, have to ask, you said you started some new projects…any hints?
Oh yes, about that 😂. I’d be excited for April if I were a reader. That’s all you get for now 😊.
That’s it for today! Thank you so much for reading and I hope you enjoyed Acing The Kitchen and this Q&A! Here’s to cheffing!! Please let me know your thoughts about this Q&A and let me know if you have any questions, I’d so love to hear! And if you try any of the recipes, I want to see!!! Lots of love to all of you on your cooking journey! Be fearless and free -Ace
Acing The Kitchen is finally available to you!!! So, basically, it is an album full of cooking videos. Yes, it is 100% vegan! I’ve also been eating sugar free for almost a year now, so all these recipes are sugar free! On occasion, you’ll see me use agave but it’s natural sugar and that is super good for you. I use organic ingredients as much as possible, it’s always better to eat chemical free food! I hope to show you in this virtual cookbook that vegan tastes amazing, and isn’t all salad. And sugar free, doesn’t mean disgusting, it means doing the best thing for your body without skimping on flavor. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, I love the flow and creative zone you get in while cooking! With that being said, I don’t often use measurements. I eyeball a lot of my ingredients and go with my gut, I think it is important to cook with preference of flavor rather than math! When you cook a lot, you kind of know intuitively the “right” amounts; you can always add more but you can’t take away, that’s a good thing to remember if you’re new to cooking. The best part about cooking, is that you always get a finished project. Thought this virtual cookbook, you’ll get many amazing finished projects! So, go check out the videos!! Comment with your thoughts and if you do try making a recipe, I’d love to hear what you think!!
Entree – Cajun Polenta
Polenta has always been a favorite of mine! This is almost like a take on shrimp and grits, but instead with “sausage” and some of my own twists! The sweet lime reduction is so good and really makes the dish! This is a definite crowd pleaser, it serves four and it is a nice, hearty entree!
Side, Lunch or Salad – Crunchy Salad with Homemade Chipotle “Ranch”
This salad is so amazing! The dressing is, oh my god, phenomenal! It’s spicy but still tangy and it pairs perfectly with the crunch of all the vegetables! This salad is great for a fresh side or a satisfying lunch!
Entree – My Signature Dish: Classic Power Bowls
So this recipe, was the first food video I’ve ever made! It’s also the first dish I made when I attempted cooking for the first time. In my family, it is my signature dish. I’ve made many variations of power bowls, but, this is the classic version! It is so good and like, the perfect meal! The tofu has a little kick, the vegetables are tangy and crispy and the tahini ties everything together! I know you’ll love it!
Entree – Bahn Mi Sandwich
This sandwich is amazing! It is juicy, the tofu is flavorful and tender, the pickled veggies add the perfect tang and the aioli brings it all together. You have to try this sandwich!!
Appetizer, Entree or Dessert – Around The World Tapas
This is one of my favorite videos aesthetically, it is such a fun video! I had this random idea to do around the world tapas because I knew it would make a great video, however, I did not realize how hard it would be to make all of this in one day! 😂 I encourage you to try at least one of these recipes, out of all of them, the quesadilla was my favorite!
Snack, Breakfast Or Dessert – Crispy Granola
I’ve been making this granola every 2 weeks for the past 6 months or so. It is so good and an amazing snack, breakfast, dessert or pre/post workout bite! I eat it plain or sometimes with almond milk. It is such an easy recipe that is so addicting!
Side – Mustard Glazed Cauliflower & Chickpeas
This is one of my favorite ways to eat cauliflower, the sweet and tangy flavor of the mustard really elevates both the cauliflower and the chickpeas. This is the perfect side, packed with flavor and literally, addictive, you’ll always want more! Even my brother, who isn’t a cauliflower lover, loved this dish!
Entree or Soup – Red Lentil Stew
This stew is fairly simple to make, but so so delicious and comforting. I served it over white rice, but you can do whatever you like; the rice makes it a bit more filling. The cumin really adds a nice depth of flavor, don’t skimp on it!! This is the perfect winter or rainy day meal, you need to try it!
Side – Easy Lemon Garlic Green Beans
These green beans are SO easy to make, but so refreshing and tasty! There are never any leftovers when it comes to these green beans, they are too good!! It is truly incredible these green beans are for how little effort it takes!
Drink – Whipped Coffee
Calling all coffee lovers!! This is truly amazing! It is so fun to watch the process and it tastes SOOOOOO good!! I promise, once you make it the first time, it will definitely not be your last!!
Entree or Soup – Authentic Ramen
This recipe is so good! This warming bowl of comfort soothes your soul and tastebuds, I absolutely love it!! I personally hate instant ramen and my friend was really upset by this. 😂 So, he convinced me to make my own version of authentic, real ramen. He was super impressed by this recipe and I hope you are too! The broth is key, let it simmer for as long as you can.
Side or Lunch or Salad – Roasted Veggie Salad With Tahini Green Goddess Dressing
This dish is SOOOO amazing!!! I could eat it everyday. This recipe is super flexible, you can use whatever veggies you have on had. The dressing will literally be your new favorite dressing. I’m telling you, it is too good!! This recipe is definitely worth a try, you won’t have any leftovers!
Entree – “Cheesy” Tomato + Basil Pasta
This pasta recipe is fairly simple and so tasty!! The basil really ties everything together. This is a perfect meal for a weeknight treat or a dinner party showstopper!
Entree – “Sausage” + White Bean Cassoulet
This recipe is fairly quick and so delicious! I highly recommend it. I obviously used vegan sausage but you can use whatever you like, you could even omit it and double up on beans instead. It’s fun to change it up and serve it with rice, or polenta, or just by itself! The breadcrumb on this adds the perfect crunch, this is such a complete dish and only 10 ingredients!
Side or Salad – Panzanella Salad
Panzanella Salad is a classic Italian dish that is super underrated. The balsamic adds the perfect acidity, the basil ties everything together, the pop of sweetness from the tomatoes is just wow and the crunchy chunks of bread sops up all the flavor! It’s just a divine side dish you have to try!
Entree or Side or Appetizer – Chickpea Fritters
Chickpea fritters are a family favorite in my house, My brother especially loves them! They’re crispy and tender and the sauce ties everything together. These fritters are fairly easy to make and so addictive, you’ll always want more! I so encourage you to make them, it’s definitely worth it!!!!
Salad or Side or Lunch – Thai Peanut Salad
This salad is amazing, it’s crunchy and hearty, perfect for a meal or a side! The dressing is the best part, creamy and tangy with that salty and spicy kick at the end! To all my salad haters out there, this will forever change your mind about salad!
Thank you so much for watching/reading this cookbook!!! Comment with your thoughts and favorites, I’d so love to hear!! Q&A coming – 2.3.21! Be fearless and free -Ace
Material things started meaning less On the days I feel a mess I go looking for my heart’s call My thoughts are running down the hall That I’ve created in my mind But the key to unlocking the door Isn’t picking the best clothes Or anything that costs more Than my heart’s call It’s funny because no object Is more expensive than my heart’s call I dig for real conversations And search my soul for new creations Or I go inside And ride the wave of emotion I’ll do anything As long as I keep my devotion To my heart’s call The level of illusion these days is quite tall But on those tough days I just need to remember my strength In many ways My heart is my compass Lighting the way through the storm Presenting its love in any form My heart I hear you Ace
There is a lot I could say about this poem, but I think it really speaks for itself! Much love to you all, be fearless and free -Ace
Quotes seemed like the perfect thing for today, my soul was ready for a change of posts! 😊 Containing my words is never easy but, I wanted to challenge myself. I titled this “Echo”, as I hope my feelings, vibration, soul, heart, and higher self echo though these quotes. I hope this helps you on your journey!! Which quote connects with you?? Comment below, I’d so love to hear!! Lots of love friends, be fearless and free -Ace
Hello friends!! So, for the past few months I’ve been busy creating this project and now it is finally time to announce it!!
So, there you have it!! I’ve made a virtual cookbook called Acing The Kitchen! So, basically, it is an album full of cooking videos. Yes, it is 100% vegan! I’ve also been eating sugar free for almost a year now, so all these recipes are sugar free! On occasion, you’ll see me use agave but it’s natural sugar and that is super good for you. I use organic ingredients as much as possible, it’s always better to eat chemical free food! 🤪 I hope to show you in this virtual cookbook that vegan tastes amazing, and isn’t all salad. And sugar free, doesn’t mean disgusting, it means doing the best thing for your body without skimping on flavor. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, I love the flow and creative zone you get in while cooking! With that being said, I don’t often use measurements. I eyeball a lot of my ingredients and go with my gut, I think it is important to cook with preference of flavor rather than math! 😂 When you cook a lot, you kind of know intuitively the “right” amounts; you can always add more but you can’t take away, that’s a good thing to remember if you’re new to cooking. The best part about cooking, is that you always get a finished project. Through this virtual cookbook, you’ll get many amazing finished projects! Comment with your thoughts on this new project, I’d love to hear!
Acing The Kitchen will be available to you on: 2.1.21! I can’t wait for you to see and hopefully try some of the recipes!!! Sending you all lots of love! Be fearless and free -Ace
My mission with my blog, is to raise people’s frequency by creating a break from reality for 3-4 minutes through my posts.
Ace – I was talking to my mom, and this just came out! 😂
So, to take that quote quite literally, today’s post is all about taking your mind to a new dream, away from the dream we’re all living. Each of our dreams are different, each of our realities are different. But, I think we can all agree on something, a little escape is needed at times. I promise you that I will continue to fulfill my mission of raising the frequency and creating a magical space to let your soul and your mind rest, I promise!
To start, some videos of course!!!!
Alive, is the finale video to my new sophomore album, FREEDOM! If you need some extra inspiration or encouragement, FREEDOM is the place to get it!!
She closed her eyes, but opened her ears. The silence was comforting, but the gentle whisper of air let her eyes wander. Her mind went to sleep, exactly how she liked it. Her soul, however, started to roar. And when her soul roared, her intuition awakened. This tingle in her gut spread to her whole being creating a twinkle in her eyes. Her vision was clear, she saw a big, strong tree with large roots and leaves that danced in the wind. Behind it was the sun, illuminating its energy and creating the dreamy aura that engulfed this tree. She was then shown a baby tree, small little roots and baby leaves just starting to emerge. But behind this vision, the starry night lit the tree up. The sparkle in the stars and the comfort of blue, charged this baby tree with the force of life. Then the visions started flashing, baby tree then big tree over and over again. Her intuition delicately whispered, “Ground, you’re ready to grow.”
A Little Message To You
My fellow souls, this journey is quite a ride. Love, is the only constant. The power is all in you to create the bubble of reality you wish to live in. I practice throughout the day, imaging a little bubble keeping my energy close and protecting me from the outside world’s reality. Life is lived in the moments you choose to truly be yourself, not the moments that are about you. Time is non existent, our minds create this time loop. Open your mind, heart and eyes; the Universe has so many plans for you! Let light take over your being and electrify your soul. I believe in you and send you so much love!! Thank you so much for reading and I hope this piece helped you on your journey! Be fearless and free -Ace
Fearless Free Soul 