Being Free

Be free. What does that mean to you?

A few years ago I remember seeing that phrase tossed about a lot on the artsy bloggingsphere along with "I want to live", but what always irritated me was that it was almost always just left at that. No explanation or elaboration of any sort. Just a few pretty phrases tossed in and blended because everyone was saying it and it sounded like a good thing.

I'll tell you what this means to me.

Be free means so much, but I can only tell you so little. Be free of the poisons of your yesterdays, but don't forget. Be free of the burden of worry - always. Be free of the weight of uncertainty and disillusion, but never lose wonder. Be free of the curse of sin, but don't become a slave to rules and regulations. Be free of being a people pleaser and be a people lover.

This takes me into "truly living", because when you are free, you are free to truly live in a way that you were always meant to live. The closest I have ever been able to get to that is when I'm living my life according to the example Jesus set.

Love God, love people. Agape. There's no better freedom and living than that.

What does "being free" mean to you?

A Love Poem - To Win You

Fact: I've been called the most unromantic person a person has ever met. By more than one person. I think it's hysterical.

Because my personality apparently leads people to such conclusions, I once asked a few randoms if they thought I'd be capable of writing a convincing love poem. Some said yes, some said no, most said maybe. I asked myself the same question and after the laughter died down, I figured I'd give it a go.

The character I embraced for this had an interesting voice. Rather old fashioned. Almost sonnet-type. A little emo-ish. The project itself was already so far removed from what I normally write I decided to just go with it, and I still don't know what to make of this. Love poems make me cringe. I've been staring and poking at this for a few weeks and I don't think I can do anymore with it. So have at it.

The character says he's not skilled in ink nor speech, but he did say I love you in three different languages. French, Greek, English (his title is rather lacking though). I'll leave you with this link to learn more about the meaning behind the Greek phrase. Romantic, no?

Now excuse me while I go eat soap and sit and stare with my mixed thoughts.

                                           

So, verdict? Convincing or not at all? Pointers?

Creamy Hemp Protein Shake

I first made this with almond milk but after coming across this research I've decided to lay off the almonds for a bit. It's next to impossible to find almonds in the US that's not from California, and that's just irritating.

Hemp is a great source of protein, and its flavor is pleasant and mild, making it perfect for adding protein to a regular smoothie. If you're needing heavy duty protein I'd recommend mixing it with a whey protein powder. The hemp protein powder I used has 16 grams of protein per serving whereas most popular whey protein powders are in the 20s range, and unless you really like the grassy flavor of hemp to dominate your drink, I'd recommend keeping the dosage down so the fruity flavors take over.

I really like this combo for hemp. Fast, easy, healthy, and such a creamy, delicious way to get a little extra protein in.

Have you tried hemp?

Creamy Hemp Protein Shake

Servings: 1

2-4 tablespoons hemp protein powder

1 frozen, chopped banana

2/3-1 cup organic milk

1 tablespoon coconut oil, melted

Blend all ingredients except coconut oil in a blender. Add coconut oil while shake is still blending. Enjoy with a side of whatever you're currently craving.