Bourbon & Cardamom Whipped Cream

Like most people in today’s world, I have a serious technology problem.  My phone is literally never not by my side or on my person, for the totally ridiculous concern of missing a text/email/Instagram photo of your dog dressed in a tutu. I really don’t want to be that person, but it’s become such a cultural and personal norm that it’s getting increasingly difficult to keep myself in check.

Is it just me, or is there a direct correlation between advancements in technology and reduced social connection?  The point of being “plugged in” is to maintain social connection and awareness, but ironically these are the very things that are suffering most. When my eyes and attention are on my phone, I’m missing out on the opportunity to make eye contact and share a smile with a stranger. I’m too busy checking my email to notice the homeless man on the corner or help the mother struggling to get her two children and stroller onto the bus.

I like myself so much more when my phone is down and my eyes are up.

Like so many other things that are easier said than done, it’s not easy to unplug ourselves and live offline… even when the price that we pay includes social disconnection and stress.  As our phone usage increases, so does the universal expectation of a timely response.  When we don’t ever put our phones down, we welcome the assumption that we’re accessible.  On the flip side, when I do put my phone away for a couple of hours only to later find a slew of missed calls/emails/texts/winks, the momentary stress I feel almost negates the peace I experienced in its absence. This is (and should be) a HUGE warning sign that something is terribly askew.

I know my behaviors won’t change overnight, but I’m making a commitment to practice greater awareness. To view the world around me through my eyes as opposed to the lens on my camera phone. To see, feel and appreciate more of the little things in life.

I hate that they are called the “little things”, by the way.  I sincerely hope that we are in agreement that the so-called little things pack the biggest punch.  Don’t get me wrong: the great moments can be magical and breathtaking, but they aren’t enough to sustain a solid foundation of happiness. In fact, when we lack an awareness and appreciation for these everyday moments, we are easily courted and even dominated by feelings such as frustration, anger and insecurity.

Imagine a day or a life without the simple pleasures like access to clean water and healthy food.  Without fresh air, safe transportation, the opportunity to share a meal with your family, or taking a walk and laughing with a friend.  Imagine not being able to hold and comfort your toddler when they fall and cry.  When I think about what I miss most about my dad, I can without hesitation say that I miss the feeling of his smooth hand on mine.  I miss his smile, the twinkle in his eye when he told a naughty joke, and the smell of his cologne when I was standing on a step stool helping him fasten his cummerbund and black tie for a formal affair. These moments that once seemed so little are in fact my life’s greatest treasures. 

Today (and every day), I encourage you to unplug yourself for a period of time.  Step back and realize that the incessant Facebook and Instagram scrolling doesn’t “fill” time, but instead drains our happiness and opportunities for connection.  Look up.  Look around.  Make eye contact without immediately darting your eyes away once contact has been made.  Allow for your mind and senses to be saturated in this crazy, beautiful world we live in.

And take a moment to enjoy the ‘little things’, like this bourbon & cardamom whipped cream :)

Ingredients:

1 cup heavy whipping cream

2 tbsp confectioners sugar

2 tbsp bourbon

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/2 tsp ground cardamom

Directions:

Whip the heavy whipping cream using an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form (approx. 2-4 minutes)

Add sugar, bourbon, vanilla and cardamom.  Continue whipping for approximately 2 minutes

Use immediately

**Side note:  I mixed the whipped cream for an additional 2 minutes which results in more of a clotted cream consistency which is delightful for spreading.  If a softer texture is preferred, the directions above should be followed closely.