“Nature is so powerful, so strong. Capturing its essence is not easy – your work becomes a dance with light and the weather. It takes you to a place within yourself.” ~ ANNIE LEIBOVITZ
Dear Readers, Community, Friends,
I hope you all have incorporated some fun and relaxation into your summer plans. Here are a few things to jumpstart the sunny season:

Through this SoulBiography featuring Charan Anand, the essence of joy is expressed where joy is always to be found: right here, right now. Take a minute to stand in the presence of this sweet man.
“The Riddle of Here” by Nic Askew

Did someone say mocktails?
However you mix these recipes from EatingWell up, they will add a sweet touch to any summer party. Visit their full array of recipes here.
WATERMELON MINT MOCKTAIL
- 2 fresh mint leaves, crushed
- Ice
- 3/4 c. watermelon juice
- 1/2 c. club soda
- Garnish with a small slice watermelon and a few mint sprigs

MOJITO MOCKTAIL
- 3/4 c. fresh lime juice (from 6 limes)
- 3/4 c. simple syrup
- 1/2 c. packed fresh mint leaves
- 2 (2 inch) strips lime zest
- 4 c. ice cubes
- 2 c. sparkling water
- Garnish with lime slices and mint sprigs
BLUEBERRY LEMONADE
- 2 c. fresh blueberries
- 1 c. fresh-squeezed lemon juice (6 lemons)
- 1/2 c. granulated sugar
- 1/4 t. salt
- 4 c. water
- Blend ingredients (except water) in a blender, then strain. Stir in water and garnish with fresh blueberries.
Summer Reads
You can listen to the first book of Harry Potter free on Audible, now until August 4th.
Have you started The Covenant of Water, by Abraham Verghese? With 724 pages, and over 30 hours of listening on Audible, you’d better get started. The author reads the book, and I could listen to his soothing, kind voice read this epic tail forever.
Looking for a charming, shorter read? Try The Little Paris Bookshop, by Nina George.
And, for a lighter read, how about Being and Nothingness, by Jean-Paul Sartre? Joking, not joking. I have the book in hand. It’s heavy, both literally, and figuratively. I think I might skim this one.
Have a favorite? Drop me a line. I’m always in the mood for a good book suggestion!
This is the 41st issue of Platinum News! Written by Julie Miles, her passion is to act as a liaison between the Platinum team, their wonderful clients, and the community – striving to tell their stories, and make meaningful connections that fuel everyone’s purpose. Have a story to tell? Contact Julie here. • Not subscribed to this monthly newsletter? You may do so here.