Garden Harvest & A Walk with Billie Holiday

Currently as I write this, it’s 3 p.m. on Friday, and the weather is cooler than it has been all week it seems. Billie Holiday’s lyrics have me feeling inspired, loved…..and gently reminding me to appreciate those who love me. In the spirit of gratitude and comfort, I’m preparing a meal for us that includes pounded yams, chickpeas, cabbage and two types of fresh greens from the garden.

Cabbage, Dino kale and Classic Curly kale

I was planning to share my review of a few Billie Holiday songs I’ve been enjoying during my walks. However, I’ve decided to listen to the record a few more times (Saturday) while I work in the garden. Though I’m familiar with many of these songs, I want to fully immerse myself in the music and refine how I create my reviews. It takes time for me to deeply engage with an album, and I’m not interested in rushing through a quick post without truly digesting the material.

Cabbage, Dino kale and Classic Curly kale

So, instead of rushing, I get to enjoy some time in the garden and focus more on the record. While walking, these songs help keep me motivated, but in the garden or during a car ride, I can dive deeper into the music and appreciate it beyond just its motivational effects.

Studies have shown that listening to music during walks or workouts can enhance motivation and improve performance. The rhythmic elements in music can boost endurance and elevate mood, making physical activities more enjoyable and effective. So, listening to Billie Holiday’s songs in the garden or even on a car ride with my hubby will provide a creative way to explore and appreciate our vinyl collection.

Cabbage, Dino kale and Classic Curly kale
Chickpeas with my homemade tomatoe, pepper and herb based sauce
Finished product was ate with fufu.

We’ve officially surpassed 50 days of sharing my daily walks online. Walking has been my form of mental health support for over two years, and I’m excited to continue this tradition. Including music I love in it is a wonderful way to connect with the past and find joy in the timeless beauty of music.

Do you have a song that you’ve been playing on repeat this year? I’d love to hear about it—share it with me, and I’ll add it to my playlist!

As always, I hope you’re staying cool and hydrated. Feel free to join me for a walk today, and remember, you’re always welcome to join me tomorrow. Whether it’s for 30 minutes, an hour, or just a stroll around your block, take a moment to breathe and enjoy the day.


Follow my daily step goal journey via my stories and more on ig and fb.

The Plus Size Vegan

2 responses to “Garden Harvest & A Walk with Billie Holiday”

  1. The food looks so delicious. The greens are lovely. And Billie Holiday ……..no words are enough

    A student is studying the impact of music on healing. We know its importance intuitively, and there’s also a big body of literature that shows the impact

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