Today, I’m taking a leisurely stroll through thoughts and musings, so if this isn’t quite your cup of tea, feel free to skip this one. As of the moment these words grace your screen, I find myself on the Playa. For those not in the know, I’m talking about none other than Burning Man—a unique and awe-inspiring event.

Picture this: Black Rock City in Nevada. I’m here, soaking up the vibrant energy of the Playa. At this very moment, I might be feeling a range of emotions—discomfort, passion, or maybe pushing my boundaries to the max. Regardless of my feelings, I’m immersing myself in this experience. You see, it’s been quite some time since my partner and I visited Burning Man with. Our last visit was five years ago, a year of significance since it marked our wedding, coinciding with my being three months pregnant. But this time, we’re not alone; we’re introducing our adventurous five-year-old to the Playa’s magic. She’s a real socialite, and I’m willing to bet she’ll outshine us in the party department.

Our adventure began with the build phase. Our mission: to help erect our camp and prepare for the week ahead. Our camp boasts a connection that feels like family, and my role involves orchestrating the kitchen and managing shifts for a hundred hungry souls—feeding them twice daily. It’s no small feat, and that is largely what makes Burning Man truly remarkable.

Humans doing really hard things…

I’ve spoken to people who shy away from Burning Man due to its perceived hardships. The sweltering desert, scarce water, and relentless dust storms might deter the faint-hearted. But therein lies the beauty; Burning Man thrives on adversity. It’s about confronting discomfort head-on and emerging stronger. When I ventured to my first Burn in 2009, I was intrigued by the allure of the Burners. Little did I know that both Burners and climbers share a common thread—they embrace the challenge, they willingly wade into the deep end of discomfort, and they conquer it. Climbers tackle physical and mental barriers; Burners brave the elements, knowing that within the struggle lies growth. Just like climbing, there’s a sense of accomplishment, a gratification that comes from surmounting the hurdles.

Now, let’s chat about the heart of Burning Man—the principle of radical self-reliance. This concept resonates deeply with my aspirations of building a radical food and mood community, revolutionizing what we have come to call “food” and radically redefining it to own our own health.

As I anticipate my time at Burning Man, memories flood my mind. Each year, I rediscover a sense of belonging, of homecoming. Amid the harsh environment, a collective spirit emerges, uniting diverse souls through shared experiences. The art, the community, the challenges—it’s mind-blowing, like a symphony of contrasts that harmonize in a life changing dance.

Amidst the dusty winds and blazing sun, we’re bringing an RV this year—a game changer for the well-being of our daughter. It’s a haven from the elements, ensuring she survives in this harsh environment. This year, everything aligned—the universe seemingly cheering us on, providing unwavering support for our Burning Man adventure. Thank you Universe.

So, my friends, as I embark on this Playa escapade, remember that Burning Man is more than a festival; it’s a transformative journey. If you’re contemplating it, take the leap—experience the harsh beauty, redefine your limits, and join a vibrant community of humans who embrace discomfort. As I revel in this week of magic, my heart is full, and I eagerly await the moment when I return to share my tales with you. Until then, stay curious, stay bold, and keep the spirit of adventure alive. Farewell for now, and see you on the flip side!

for more like this: My Gluten-Free Love Life with A Bread Baker  (I met my man on the playa… he was making bread).