Finding the True You

Though all our lives take different courses, I've realized lately that we're all really searching for just one thing. The true essence of who we are. We long to understand what makes us "tick", and when we discover this elusive concept, we can begin to truly appreciate and be at peace with who we are. Lately, I've just begun to sense who I REALLY am - and I'm not talking about all the superficial "fluff" that people think they're made of (i.e. clothes, cars, careers, etc.). I'm talking about that deep-down, undeniable core of who you are.

How did I begin to "see" this inner me? One word. Yoga. Until the past few months, I never really "got" yoga. I thought is was a trendy fitness cliche for celebs and celeb wanna-bes. But, as I began to practice more frequently and do research on my own, I began to discover what yogis have known for centuries...Yoga opens you up and puts you in touch with your inner self. It clears your mind, opens your heart and challenges your body. It helps you to be present as you focus on your breath. Yoga sets you free (for a little while at least) from the trials and tribulations of daily life.

So, for me it is yoga. For you, it may be something else that helps you to see beyond all the outer layers that cover your true core. But whatever it is, it's worth looking for. Believe me.

Happy, healthy 2010!.

UPDATES!

January 7th (today!!!) - Cailen will be speaking at the Flemington Shop Rite on Rte 31 at 7pm in the upstairs mezzanine about the important link between a healthy, happy life and a beautiful, organized home. The presentation is free and open to all. Shop Rite's registered dietitian will provide healthy, delicious snacks and information about nutrition.

January 12th - February 23rd - Cailen will be hosting lifestyle classes at her home studio in Stockton, NJ. Class topics will include healthy eating & recipes, vision board creation, goal setting, the importance of exercise and much, much more! Classes are held weekly on Tuesdays from 10am-11am. Visit www.CailenAscher.bravehost.com/lifestyle.html for details.

Keep a look out!

March 2010 - Cailen will be at the Architectural Digest Home Show in NYC! She'll be giving free design consultations all weekend long. If you're in need of some design inspiration or curious about the latest trends, stop by the show!

May 2010 - Cailen Ascher Design's work will again be featured in the Bucks County Designer House. Cailen will be designing a large studio space and will be showcasing furniture from Orchard Hill Company in Lambertville, NJ where she is working as their in-house designer.

For more information, visit www.CailenAscher.bravehost.com, email CailenAscher@gmail.com or call 908.581.8191.

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Lifestyle Classes - Home Session

The 2nd Session of Lifestyle Class begins on October 6th, 2009 and runs through November 10th. Classes are held every Tuesday morning from 10am-11am and cost $25/class. Drop-ins are always welcome!

Classes will cover aligning your home & lifestyle, simplifying your environment, finding your unique design style, creating a nurturing environment and balancing beauty & function.

For more information call 908-581-8191, email CailenAscher@gmail.com or visit www.CailenAscher.bravehost.com/lifestyle.html.

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The Best Tastes-Like-Mom-Made-It Breakfast

For the absolute best home-style breakfast, head down to Meil's (pronounced "Meals") in Stockton, NJ. Situated on the corner of Bridge Street and Main Street in this quaint river town, Meil's has been keeping patrons full and happy with their delicious baked goods, hearty egg dishes, fresh-squeezed orange juice and to-die-for potato pancakes for 18 years. They offer generous portions of mouth-watering favorites as well as some welcome twists. Croissant French toast, anyone? Whatever you order, be sure to save room for one of their delectable, buttery biscuits topped with their homemade raspberry jam. There's nothing better!

The décor harkens back to a 1950s Mom and Pop diner. The mismatched fiesta ware and eclectic art set a comfortable, homey tone for this charming, family restaurant. If you have children in tow, order them Meil's "famous" hot chocolate topped with homemade marshmallows – it's sure to please adult taste buds as well! Though I prefer their scrumptious breakfasts above all else, Meil's also offers tasty lunch options and delicious dinners. All meals at Meil's are reasonably priced and big enough for two! So bring your appetite and enjoy!

Oh, and if you're hoping to enjoy a breakfast there on the weekends, be forewarned, they do not accept reservations and get very busy! So, head there ahead of time, give your name to the hostess and enjoy wandering around adorable Stockton. Trust me; your breakfast will be well worth the wait.

Main & Bridge Streets, Stockton, NJ 08559, 609-397-8033, www.MeilsRestaurant.com

For more information about Cailen Ascher Design or my book, Well-Designed Living, visit http://www.cailenascher.bravehost.com/ or email CailenAscher@gmail.com.

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