Dreamy Cappuccino - Inspiring stories, musings, memoirs

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What happens when your muse says, “Screw being good—go be you”?
This story is an unapologetic joyride into bubblegum punk freedom. A pink Harley, obnoxious chewing, peacock takedowns, dancing in the rain, and cocktails with a side of rebellion.
A celebration of everything shrill, juicy, loud, and radically alive.
Because pink isn’t cute—it’s powerful.
Because the world needs fewer bloated turkeys and more bubble-bursting rebels.
And because sometimes, the most honest thing you can do… is peng.

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Apple strudel. Bread with chives. Gelbwurst, with or without. These small details become portals—pulling us through time, across landscapes of memory, through hallways lined with invisible fogs of unexpressed dreams.

In this tender and melancholic piece, Anja weaves together tastes, sounds, and spaces to explore how ancestral weight and generational silence seep into the everyday. The story touches on the unspoken grief of unlived lives—and how that grief can linger in houses, in habits, and in us.

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A junk drawer, a junk closet... or a junk garage? So many options for all the bits and pieces we tuck away and forget. In this wildly whimsical and deeply human story, we dive into the oddities of our inner clutter—the half-forgotten dreams, the rituals we abandoned, the old pence stuck to chewed-up gum, and the pink pipe we definitely didn’t put there.

Through Anja’s playful narration and sudden detours into the surreal, The Junk Drawer becomes a metaphor for all the parts of ourselves we tend to shove...

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Footprints in the sand—traces of existence, about to be washed away. The sea, an eternal keeper of the past, dissolves them without hesitation. What remains is an open canvas, free from expectation, justification, or the need to make sense. This story dives into the beauty of impermanence, the liberation of absurdity, and the joy of creating without constraint. Can we let go and create anew, without the weight of fixed ideas?

☕ Curious minds are always welcome at my Dreamy Online Cappuccino Gathering → Join here

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A tongue, tired of its fate, dreams of becoming something else—something freer, something with fewer burdens. It resents the tastes forced upon it, longing for the gentle touch of the outside world. But can we ever truly escape who we are? A tale of longing, resistance, and the quiet whisper of self-acceptance.

☕ Curious minds are always welcome at my Dreamy Online Cappuccino Gathering → Join here

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She arrives in a whirlwind of drums, pink feather earrings, and roaring laughter. My muse—bold, untamed, and unapologetic—doesn’t ask for permission. She challenges the rules, makes noise when I don’t, and refuses to let me disappear. With wild energy and a fierce belief in me, she shakes the walls, stirs my soul, and leaves me holding drumsticks and echoes of her laughter. But will I trust her? Will I let her stay?

Listen now and step into the untamed rhythm of The Wild Muse.

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The scapegoat is gone. The arena, once filled with blame and accusations, stands empty—but the finger pointers can’t stop pointing. What happens when there’s no one left to take the blame? This story explores the strange aftermath of scapegoating, the energy of blame returning to its senders, and the question of whether anyone will ever leave the arena. Some make it out—most don’t. Will they ever put their fingers down?

☕ Curious minds are always welcome at my Dreamy Online Cappuccino Gathering → Join here https://www.anjakerste...

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In this episode, I share a deeply mysterious and haunting tale of a woman standing at the edge of her own darkness. Sleepless nights, overwhelming sorrow, and a desire to escape consume her. As the moon falls and the night holds its secrets, she makes a choice—though whether it’s an end or a new beginning remains uncertain.

This is a story of confronting internal turmoil, the weight of past sorrows, and the restless ache for change. A moment of decision looms, but where it leads—no one can say.

L...

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In this episode, I bring you a story from the Wild West—where cowboys don’t just fight duels; they fight something far more elusive: joie de vivre. When one cowboy decides to capture it, things don’t go as planned. Smoke clouds his mind, frustration takes hold, and in a split second of instinct… the unthinkable happens.

A tale of destruction, lost vitality, and the struggle between control and surrender. What happens when we try to tame the untamable? Listen in and find out.

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In this episode, I share a raw and powerful story—one that speaks to the feeling of being trapped, of performing for a world that demands your presence but rejects your truth. A tiger, once wild and majestic, now caged and broken, questions its existence. But even in the depths of sorrow, something stirs—a flicker of defiance, a reminder of sharp claws and untamed spirit.

This story is for anyone who has ever felt silenced, who has fought to reclaim their true self. Listen in, and let’s sharpen our claws...

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In this episode, I explore what it truly means to create freely, sharing my philosophy around the creative process and how embracing freedom in creation allows us to express our most authentic selves. After the musing, I dive into a personal reflection on how navigating health challenges has shaped my creative practice and the importance of honoring both creativity and imperfection.

You can join me for upcoming Dreamy Cappuccino gatherings https://www.anjakersten.com/events—a space where we come together to reflect and create. And if you haven't already, check ou...

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Journey into the heart of "Mirat and Tschibidad, A Peculiar Friendship" as the tale reaches its climactic conclusion. Follow Tschibidad, the Mozart bird with a lion's roar, as he embarks on a mission to reunite Mirat with his father for one final, heartfelt conversation.

Discover the challenges that await our determined hero as he navigates through the reputation that precedes the chirruping lion, Mirat. The moment of truth arrives when Tschibidad and Mirat finally come face-to-face. Will Mirat embrace the opportunity for closure, or will he shy away from confronting his...

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Continue the captivating journey of "Mirat and Tschibidad, A Peculiar Friendship" as the story delves deeper into the lives of our extraordinary characters. Follow Mirat, the chirruping lion, and his mother as they venture away from their clan, navigating the challenges of isolation and uncertainty. Experience the heartwarming bond between mother and son as they face the world together, with Mirat's unwavering love shining through as his mother's health declines.

Meanwhile, Tschibidad's trumpet-like roar leads him to a fateful encounter with Mirat's father, who entrusts him with a crucial favor. Discover...

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Embark on an enchanting journey with "Mirat and Tschibidad, A Peculiar Friendship," a tale that celebrates uniqueness, friendship, and self-discovery. Meet Mirat, a trumpet lion who defies the norms of his clan with his bird-like chirrups, and Tschibidad, a Mozart bird who surprises all with his trumpet roar.

As Mirat struggles to find his voice and place within the lion clan, his mother stands by him, and together they venture into the unknown. Meanwhile, Tschibidad's playful nature and unexpected talent set the stage for a surprising connection between these two extraordinary...

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Step into the world of Eddy, a devoted companion whose days are numbered due to his declining functionality. Despite his uncertain future, Eddy remains steadfast in his affection for Paula, wondering if she shares the same deep connection.

Experience the emotional journey of Eddy as he whispers his love for Paula in the quiet moments they share. Despite fearing that he may be seen as outdated or replaceable, Eddy holds onto hope that their bond will endure and that they will continue to create beautiful memories together.

Written and...

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Welcome the arrival of spring on March 21st, and dive into the contemplative musings of "Where is the Beginning?" This thought-provoking piece invites us to question the nature of beginnings, endings, and the cyclical patterns that define our lives.

As we witness the first blooms of spring and the birth of new life, we are encouraged to consider the arbitrary lines we draw between beginnings and endings. Is the beginning of spring truly defined by a calendar date, or do we find it in the emergence of vibrant flowers and the...

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Dive into the charming and thought-provoking world of "Fish Come from Heaven, Right?" – a tale that mirrors the rapid changes we face in our own lives. Meet Robin the seal, who lives a blissful existence at a seal sanctuary where fish seemingly rain from the heavens. However, his world is turned upside down when he is abruptly taken away from his idyllic home.

Experience Robin's journey as he learns to adapt to his new environment, confronts unexpected challenges, and discovers the resilience that lies within him. This heartwarming story will not on...

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Immerse yourself in the gentle embrace of "The Cushion of Love," a poetic exploration of the transformative power of vulnerability and self-love. This moving piece invites us to face our fears head-on and discover the unexpected reservoir of love that resides within us all.

As the poem unfolds, we are encouraged to surrender to our emotions and allow fear to run its course. In the process, we may find ourselves pleasantly surprised by the inner strength and compassion that emerges, providing a soft, comforting cushion upon which to rest and recover.<...

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Discover the heartwarming tale of "The Mole Who Thought to Be a Mole But Wasn't," a story that explores themes of self-discovery, divine intervention, and embracing one's true identity. Follow the journey of a mole who tirelessly digs tunnels deep beneath the earth's surface, only to reach a point of exhaustion and resignation.

As the mole sits in solitude, an angel miraculously appears to guide him out of his subterranean prison. In a surprising twist, the angel reveals that the mole is not who he thinks he is, setting the stage...

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Embark on a journey through time and memory with "I Love Ruins," a poignant blend of memoir and reflection. Discover the enchanting beauty of Ireland's Dunboy Castle on the Beara Peninsula, as it once was – a stunning ruin surrounded by a meadow of grazing cows, before its transformation into a modern hotel.

Explore the allure of ruins and their power to connect us to the past, while imparting valuable lessons on the importance of embracing imperfection in the present. As we delve into the narrator's personal experiences and musings, we uncover th...

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Venture into a world of hope and renewal with "The Rainbow Dragon Who Looked Like a Dragonfly," a captivating tale about finding light in the darkest of places. Discover the barren landscape, devoid of life, until the narrator stumbles upon a dying rose that pleads for help. Embark on a quest to save the rose, leading to the enchanting realm of the rainbow waterfalls and the magnificent rainbow dragon, who resembles a dragonfly.

This inspiring story encourages readers to delve into their inner selves and revive the aspects that may have...

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Embark on a transformative journey with "The Star Which Turned into a Starfish," a captivating tale that explores the limitless potential of imagination and the power of surrender. Follow the story of a star longing to escape the confines of the sky and plunge into the enchanting depths of the sea.

Discover the incredible magic that unfolds when we dare to let go of our fears and embrace the possibility of change. As the star releases its celestial binds, it transitions into a starfish, embarking on a new adventure beneath the...

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Step into the heartwarming world of "5 Apples, 10 Pieces of Lump Sugar, Cranberry Jelly, and a Corer," a touching tribute to the narrator's beloved grandmother and her unique food parcels. Far from her usual fare of delicious stollen, the grandmother sends an unexpected package filled with the story's titular ingredients.

Unravel the layers of love and family connection woven into this delightful tale as the narrator shares the surprise and joy that unfolds upon receiving this unusual parcel. With heartfelt appreciation, the story invites readers to reflect on the cherished memories and...

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Experience the heartfelt and timely emotions within "Poem for Now," a poignant piece penned during the lockdown in Ireland. This evocative poem delves into the personal journey of author Anja Kersten as she navigates the fears and hopes that have arisen during this unprecedented time of uncertainty.

As the world faces a collective moment of introspection, "Poem for Now" challenges us to consider our role in shaping the future. It asks a thought-provoking question: will we seize this opportunity to create a better world, or will we simply return to the...

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Immerse yourself in the captivating realm of "The Grand Union," a surreal tale that introduces a mysterious and illustrious family who finds solace in their own identity and values. Set amidst opulence and grandeur, they are a family that welcomes outsiders with open arms, unburdened by the trappings of comparison and competition.

Explore the enchanting narrative as it reveals the true nature of this extraordinary family and the secret to their harmonious existence. Discover the profound wisdom that lies within their acceptance of self and the power of unity, generosity, and...

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Experience the emotional journey of "Albert & Emilia," a tender tale that explores the complexities of love, change, and the power of personal choices. Witness the relationship between Emilia, a woman longing for change, and Albert, a man deeply rooted in his old ways. As Emilia embarks on a new life, Albert must confront the ultimate decision: will he follow his heart or remain steadfast in his principles?

Delve into this poignant narrative that delves into the intricacies of human connection and the struggle between personal growth and the fear of the...

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Prepare to dive into the captivating world of "Maybe It Is a Troll Hoover?," where thought-provoking questions and humorous musings converge. Contemplate the possibility of extraterrestrial forces stealthily vacuuming away trolls from our world, and ponder the effect of vacuuming on houses—are they nervous systems enjoying a massage or enduring a maniacal cleaning frenzy?

This quirky tale invites you to journey through a labyrinth of intriguing questions, challenging the notion that having answers is more important than asking questions. Embark on this lighthearted exploration with the knowledge that those who ha...

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Step into the delightful world of "The Butter Bee and the Knot Tree," a charming tale about a unique bee with a penchant for butter instead of honey. Witness the butter bee's adventures as she navigates life with her special cloak, made by a friendly meat-eating plant, to prevent butter from sticking to her wings.

When teasing from the other bees becomes too much, the butter bee seeks solace in a new home and finds an unexpected friendship with the welcoming knot tree. This heartwarming story explores themes of individuality, resilience...

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Enter a world of whimsical relationships in "The Legendary Nerve Quarter," where birds and chairs collide in a tale of love, compassion, and clashing personalities. Discover the origins of the legendary nerve quarter, born from an unlikely pairing of two lovebirds—a crake and a duck—and their newfound companions, a set of abandoned twin chairs.

As the newly formed quartet attempts to coexist, tensions rise, and their nerves are tested. This fantastical story explores the complexities of relationships and the contagious nature of irritation, leading to the creation of the infa...

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Immerse yourself in the whimsical world of "The Highly Sensitive Flat," where an empathetic living space yearns for a sunnier climate, far from the damp confines of Cornwall, England. In this captivating tale, a narcissistic owner dismisses the flat's needs, setting the stage for a series of increasingly absurd events.

As a mysterious damp patch grows on the ceiling, the owner blames his tenants and their tall, oxygen-consuming boyfriend for the problem. With the installation of an air-measuring device, the tenants' lives are disrupted by alarms and restrictions. The question remains...

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Embark on a journey into the provocative world of "The Art of Backtalking," where gossip becomes an art form. Discover the intricacies of this unconventional skill with guidance from a backtalking specialist, who reveals the benefits and techniques to master the art of backtalking. Experience the seductive allure of gossip as a means of releasing pent-up emotions and sidestepping personal responsibility. This thought-provoking tale explores the consequences and complexities of this subversive skill, inviting you to question its true value.

Written and recorded by  Anja Kersten—an artist, coach, and creative for...

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Embark on a journey of resilience and ingenuity with "The Lost Mouse in the Heating," a captivating tale of a curious mouse who finds herself trapped in an abandoned heating system. Witness the determination of our tiny hero as she uses her wits and creativity to turn the labyrinthine heating into a musical instrument, calling for help with each note she plays. Join the brave mouse on her quest for freedom and discover if her ingenious plan will ultimately lead to her rescue.

This captivating story has been written and recorded...

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Tired of life's responsibilities? Discover the endless possibilities of transformation in "The Transmission Bench." Journey to a world where you can choose to become a bench made of metal, wood, or stone—but beware, the portal doesn't do plastic! Uncover the incredible benefits of relinquishing your human form and embracing the life of a bench with guidance from the Transmission Bench Enabler.

This captivating story, "The Transmission Bench," has been written and recorded by the talented Anja Kersten, an artist, coach, and creative force, and features music composed by the gifted Ch...

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Dive into the enchanting world of "The Snoring Blueberry," a captivating tale about a brave little fruit who dares to venture beyond the borders of her homogeneous society. This story explores the magic of self-discovery and the importance of embracing one's uniqueness in a world that values sameness. Join our hero on her quest to find what lies beyond the borders of Blueberry Land.

This captivating story, "The Snoring Blueberry," has been written and recorded by  Anja Kersten, an artist, coach, and creative force, and features music composed by  Chelsea Edwardson.

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In this intriguing episode of Cup of Inspiration, we encounter two esteemed members of society: the hornet hooverer, who protects people from pesky hornets at special events, and the pasta measurer, who holds the fate of pasta-makers in his hands. Both men are highly respected for their unique roles and expertise.

But beneath their public personas lies a dark secret that binds them together. Join us as we uncover the truth behind their clandestine meetings on the hill and explore the hidden depths of their mysterious connection.

This captivating...

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In this charming tale of adventure and danger, a sea-dwelling turtle finds herself on land, exploring further than she's ever ventured before. Drawn by the captivating sounds of a frog concert, she soon finds herself in a perilous situation. The conductor frog, enraged by her presence, accuses her of eavesdropping and not paying for a ticket. As tensions rise, the turtle must navigate her way out of harm's way, all while the furious frog hops along her shell.

Join us in this enchanting episode of Cup of Inspiration, "When the Frog...

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In this provocative episode of Cup of Inspiration, we delve into the peculiar world of the Professional Shitholders, those who digest and manage the unwanted emotions that others wish to avoid. Despite their essential role in maintaining emotional equilibrium, these shitholders are often unappreciated and shunned, much like dentists.

As we explore the complex relationship between the shitholders and the light workers of Cloud Nr.9, we uncover a paradoxical truth—if shitholders were to strike, the light workers would be forced to confront their own emotions, threatening their ability to escape to...