Once upon a time....

… Many wonderful stories begin with this simple phrase, and each one is memorable because of a colorful cast of characters and the meaningful events that unfold.

Empty bottle moments are much the same, comprising a cast of friends and family who gather to share meaningful moments and meals with a purpose. My new book, Creating Empty Bottle Moments, is a recipe for life that illustrates how a few small changes, a dollop of creativity and a dash of light-hearted joy can make your meals — and life — rich and purposeful.

Why empty bottles? Quite simply, full bottles represent possibilities, while empty ones represent treasured moments in the richest relationships of life. In fact, empty bottles are quite full, overflowing with meaning and memories.

Dating back to my childhood years assisting my mother with meal preparation, to young adult years serving as a Kosher chef in the South African Army, to a professional career as a chef and restaurant owner, the kitchen has taught me life’s richest lessons. Six basic principals, detailed in Creating Empty Bottle Moments, look beyond the obvious to find meaningful applications that apply to every person everywhere.

• Sandpaper moments — Missteps, friction and discord shouldn’t ruin a relationship or event, rather they offer opportunities to switch gears and shape relationships in positive ways.

• Lagniappe — Defined as an extra measure of care, Lagniappe can be part of everyday life to build a treasury that lasts forever.

• Oops! — A graceful reaction to bumps in the road reflects poise and passionate patience.

• Before Its Time — Haulting the exhausting urge to rush, rush, rush offers a unique perspective about priorities and wanting what you have vs. having what you want.

• Only the Best — The price tag is oftentimes more about novelty than taste, about impression than satisfaction, and perception than reality.

• Don’t Lose Your Lunch Money — Distractions are like robbers, stealing you away from things you should be investing in: family, friends and relationships.

I encourage you to take a life-changing step. Make empty bottle moments a priority in your life. Journal your own empty bottle moments as an inspiration to others, even share them here with us......

And please visit www.emptybottlemoments.com.