GYPSY GIRL'S GUIDE

Rishikesh Ladies (2004)

Welcome to Gypsy Girl's Guide!
Here you'll find my stories, travels, musings and colors.
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I travel to feel alive, to expand my knowledge, to get a new perspective, to find magical connections, to learn how to trust serendipity... And mostly, to come back home knowing a bit more about who I am.

While travel usually refers to going to a particular place, I invite you to look at the bigger picture which is your own journey through life.

Find out how the places you go, the people you meet and the cultures you participate on, can teach you about your true nature and guide you on making vivid and confident choices.

I believe that travel can empower you to create the life you have always wanted to live!

Coming up on this site:

About the Guide & the Gypsy Girl behind it.

Adventure Map - Gypsy Girl maps many years of her adventures around the globe.

Illustrations & Photography - Gallery covering travels in North, South & Central America, South East Asia, India, New Zealand, Australia and Europe.

Travel Writing - Insight for the woman who travels solo. Tips on how to get started on your 'round the world trip or your dream adventure. Learn how to find joy on a walk around the block. Learn how to go on a "gypsy girl" journey in your own neighborhood! And much more...

California Dreamin' - Gypsy Girl is currently based in San Francisco, CA. Lots of regional tips!!!

Interviews w/ top notch gypsies! Learn more about "gypsy girl" lifestyle.

Gypsy Links - Spirited inspiration for the road.

Gypsy Hub - Meet other like-minded "gypsy girls" here!

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Thank you for stopping by! Come back for updates.

Maze, Black Rock City, NV, 2005

When I tell people that I moved to England by myself when I was 17 years old, they usually ask me: Weren't you afraid? You must be so brave... How did you do that?

And the truth is that I have always responded to these questions with: "I dunno..." But what I realize now, is that such answer is just not good enough to encourage anyone to go and find out that it can be done. Besides, how powerful could it be to know how to re-activate that courage muscle anytime I needed to? With that, I decided to do some exploring as a way to gain easy access to that part of me that is brave, so I can learn how to apply the strength I have when it comes to traveling, to the parts of me that need confidence.

As I went on a journey through my memories last night, I remembered that what triggered my interest in England was my love for classical ballet. I had been practicing ballet for several years at a school affiliated to the Royal Academy, where we were evaluated by brit instructors who came to Brazil periodically (Yes! As in Billy Elliot, guys!). I just loved that vibe and formality which was so unlike the relaxed Brazilian style. From there, all I really did was give more and more room to that thought of "Hey, it would be amazing to go there." I listened to that part of me that was curious about England. I looked at all kinds of photos, I read about how people lived there, I searched for London newspapers and I imagined myself there daily. All along this process, I made no travel plans. I was only immersed in the idea of how it would feel to be there. Sure enough, the opportunity came along on its own via a scholarship proposal. I applied for it, it came through and when that happened, I was practically there already. I was able to take the next step forward, because England was not unknown to me. It was the place I needed to be at. My parents saw the glow in my eyes and they had no choice but encourage me and let me go. I must thank them infinitely for allowing me to find my path that way.

When I got there, I had the clearest feeling of openness, fearlessness. I was not afraid at all, because I had prepared mentally for how it would feel. From that state of mind, I was able to be receptive to the people and challenges presented, which enabled me to adapt gracefully. Everyone I met noticed my genuine gratitude for being there and in return, offered me more help that I could have ever hoped for. The more I gave into that experience, the more it gave back to me. *This is true for every trip I have taken so far*.

So, without getting into too many more details, I think that a pretty good recipe for gearing up for your big trip is: Tune in with your interests and what they say about where you should go. Immerse yourself in the idea, imagine how it would feel to be there. Then, take the opportunity when it comes (it will come!) and go with your heart and eyes open! Be prepared but not scared. Allow yourself to receive the adventure. Also, be in charge when it comes to your travel project. You are the boss designing how it should go. Have fun with it. Lastly, take care of yourself out there, because when you do so, you feel empowered and you come back safe.

As I wrap this up, a bigger question stays with me:

Can I apply this formula to the other areas of my life that need courage? Can I feel less trapped in my day-to-day challenges? If I trust what I know in my heart with openness and awareness, can I move forward and out of the maze?

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By the way, my new friend Ann has the perfect line of Tees to help carry this thought and intention. Get one before you go on your next adventure! I got mine and we'll be sporting it in this blog soon.

Right here, Ocean Beach, San Francisco, 2006

This weekend has been absolutely beautiful in San Francisco.

Sunny days with crisp off shore winds, which are perfect for surfing and for taking that yummy hoodie for a walk. So I prepped my backpack with a bottle of water, my Nano, a knitted hat, camera, journal, crayons, colorful markers and headed to Ocean beach.

As I strolled along listening to one of my favorite Brazilian tunes - Tribalistas - I felt so happy to be right here. What could be better? Silvery highlights on perfectly shaped waves. The sun on my back keeping me warm. A dad teaching his kid how to fly a kite. A trail of synchronized birds in the sky. A girl spinning poi by the sand dunes. Three little kids wearing their wet suits and making sand castles. A loyal dog sitting by the water with a big red collar that said "I'm not lost, my owner is surfing". Half of a surfboard stuck on the sand as evidence of a story... And a reminder of another... Right here.

I want to take this contentment and all the feelings that go along with it, and stick them where I can easily see and remember them. There are so many other days when I worry about the next best thing for me. I stress about how things need to change and I forget about what is. But today I rest with a new thought: There is so much to be thankful for in this moment of my sweet life. This blog, this new community and you are one of them!

And to complement these thoughts and generate even more ripples of awareness, serendipity brought me the perfect quote in Sabrina's journal:

"Oceans, I have a feeling that my boat has struck down there in the depths, against a great thing. And nothing happens! Nothing... Silence... Waves... Nothing happens? Or has everything happened, and we are standing now, quietly in the new life?"Juan Ramon Jimenez, translated by Robert Bly. Excerpt from The True and the Questions: A Journal

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By the way, while I was on an adventure walk around the Sunset (where I live) yesterday, I decided that I will be sharing and promoting this "sort of" neglected and foggy neighborhood of San Francisco in my blog. You are invited to come along and find out why this area has unique "off the beaten track" charm.

And for you, shoppers: check out my friend Angelica's designs. She has a delicious line of clothes for kids called Grommet. It's the perfect holiday gift for cute surfer boys and girls. My favorites are these and these.

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I'm sending you sunshine to warm you from inside out. Have a good week!

Colorful Steps, San Francisco, 2006

One of my favorites spots in the Sunset District is a magical stairway located at the intersection of Moraga St & 16th Ave. When I drive by it on my way to work, I always see a couple of ladies doing very energetic moves half way to the top. My boyfriend and I call them the "flying ladies", because they seem way up there in the sky, and they make wide circling movements with their arms as if they were just about to take off. It's an adorable sight that always brings joy to our ride in the morning. And I'm sure the ladies appreciate exercising with the beautiful view of the ocean from up there.

Whenever I can, I try to climb the 163 steps myself on my usual weekends walks. Every time I do that, I feel happier and inspired, as opposed to what I'd normally feel at the bottom of ordinary concrete stairs! It's easy to start with such an inviting and colorful design. But it gets even easier to keep going, when you look closer and notice all the details of sea creatures, birds and flowers at every step of the way. I had noticed too, that the steps had family and business names embedded on the tiles. So in the last couple of days, I decided to research and find out who was behind this great project. That's when I found the Tiled steps website .

It turns out that the stairs are a result of a beautiful community effort that started in 2003 and was inaugurated in August 2005. It involved hundreds of neighbors committed to create something that would bring more beauty to their community. To my total surprise, I also discovered that the project was actually inspired by a stairway in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Imagine that? According to their website, Jesse Audette who was one of the organizers, lived in Rio for 5 years and enjoyed going up similar steps in Santa Tereza. Check out the Santa Tereza steps here. (Santa Tereza, by the way, is a fantastic place that I recently visited in the beginning of this year. If you go to Rio, definitely check it out. It's got lots of "off the beaten track charm".)

Suddenly, a walk around the Sunset became even more special to me. First of all, I'm happy to know that home is just a step away now. But not only that, the "Tiled Steps Project" gave me the motivation to think about how I can also be more proactive and bring people together, to create something that can affect the community in a positive manner. A sincere idea for bringing more joy to the world goes a long way.

Where is that great idea you've been holding onto? Let's hold our ideas together and put them into action! Shall we? I have a feeling the world needs them...

And what can you find out about the area where you live, that may allow you to feel more connected to your surroundings and engaged in your community?

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And of course, I just found this great book: Stairway Walks in San Francisco. So I'm sure I will be going on more stairway adventures soon.

Himalayas, 2004

Keep walking, though there is no place to get to.
Don't try to see through the distances. That's not
for human beings.
Move within, but don't move the way fear makes
you move.
Today, like every other day, we wake up empty and
frightened.
Don't open the door to the study
and begin reading. Take down a musical
instrument.

Let the beauty we love be what we do.
There are hundreds of ways to kneel and kiss the ground.

RUMI

Today I feel like I just need to keep walking.
Keep doing more of what I love.
Focus on what brings beauty and meaning to my life.
There is no destination.

San Francisco,Ocean Beach, 2006

I took this picture of my boyfriend getting ready to surf the other day. While he stretched, I observed and admired his courage to get into the cold water.

It got me thinking about how much I'd like to go in myself, but somehow don't. I sit outside, read, go on a walk, but I don't go in. Don't take me wrong, I love all those beach activities too. But the thing is that I do want to have fun in the water. So why do I fight it off? I make so many excuses... It's too cold, It's so much work to get in and out of the wet suit, the waves are not right for me today, I need a bigger board to learn on... And my favorite... What if there are hungry sharks out there today?

On the other hand, the times when I did give surf a chance, I had so much fun. At first, I sure got a bit overwhelmed carrying the huge board, trying not to trip on the leash and fighting the white water coming at me. But the magic happened when I started paddling to catch the wave. As I paddled and paddled, all those fears melted away... And soon, I was on the wave, enjoying every second of the ride. So maybe all I need to do is show up willing to paddle. Hmmm.

Does anyone else feel like it might be time to show up and paddle paddle paddle in order to get on a certain wave too?

Water lily, San Francisco Conservatory of Flowers, 2003

As the sweet la vie en rose mentioned in her last post... The end of the year entries are bound to feature more pics than words from some of us! This may be true for me. I find myself already overwhelmed with the busyness of this season. Too much to do!!! And in the midst of it all, I can't help but look forward and plan plan plan for the New Year. There are so many dreams to chase... And so much I want to change... I was feeling giddy when, thankfully, in a moment of silence (on the plane) this weekend, I reconnected with an exquisite quote from one of my favorite authors ever.

"My coming of faith did not start with a leap but rather a series of staggers from what seemed like one safe place to another. Like lily pads, round and green those places summoned and held me while I grew. Each prepared me to the next leaf on which I would land, and this way I moved across the swamp of doubt and fear. When I look back at these early resting places --- I can see how flimsy and indirect a path they made. Yet each step brought me closer to the verdant pad of faith in which somehow I afloat today." Anne Lamott

I've observed that in my life, despite the rush and angst to "make things happen", I have never been able to suddenly leap either. My path has actually been quite wobbly and accidental. It is good to recognize though, that no matter how many steps I took and in which direction I went, these steps sure led me to extraordinary places.

So, whatever the future may bring us, here is a unique end of the year opportunity: Let's just rest in our accomplishments and be held by their support as we approach the new year.

Personal "lily pads" I want to share with you:

First, this Sunday I was honored to attend the Premiere of the new "Charlotte's Web" movie in LA. The film opens in theaters this coming Friday, Dec 15th.

For those of you who are just getting to know me, I'm a visual effects producer for movies by day and a blogger by night! I produced the VFX work for Templeton and the Crows on Charlotte's Web. This was my first children's project after a long run of monster and superhero movies. So I'm really happy about it. Take your kids to see it over Christmas! Here are the latest trailers to get you started. And here is an interview featured on LA times this weekend, especially presenting the work done by my wonderful team and by my talented friend Raquel Coelho, who is a fabulous teacher, writer, illustrator, puppet maker and animator!

Finally, to complete the weekend with even more joy, I had the pleasure of being interviewed by the Expat Interview crew. Their site is a fantastic resource for anyone who is curious or needs information on what it's like to live in another country. You can read my interview and learn more about me here. Big thanks to the site writers, Lizza & Victor. You guys, rock! :D

Howler Monkey, Belize, 2004

My mind is jumping around like a crazy monkey!

I'm trying to work, take some web classes, prep for the holidays and make time to see my extended family & friends.

In the meantime, there are some fantastic artsy events and bits happening now, that keep hijacking my mind...

Here are some of the exciting things I plan on squeezing in throughout the course of the upcoming 2 weeks before the holidays!

Checking out the "Earth Installation" by Stanlee Gatti @ the SF Conservatory of Flowers.

Checking out the amazing Anne Faith @ the Shooting Gallery AND Blaine at the Upper Play Ground.

Discovering the Sensational Mexican street graphics at the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts.

Going to the movies to see Volver and Pan's Labyrinth.

Stopping by for a drink at 111 Minna to check the new art in their powder room!

Stopping by the SF Ferry Building to get a few more "local holiday treats"

And of course, blogging about all of the above!

Alter State exhibit, Cell Space, 2006

I'm a little late on responding to this fun meme, but I thought it would be a nice way to get me back into my blog...

I opened the book Zen and the Art of Making a Living: A Practical Guide to Creative Career Design (Arkana) on page 123. As of the 5th line, it reads "In fear of being overwhelmed, we dull our senses. It is a hungry world we live in. This world is hungry, not just in material terms, not just because over twenty percent of it's population faces chronic malnourishment or starvation. It's hungry in so many ways - hungry for knowledge, hungry for wisdom, hungry for caring, hungry for justice, hungry for beauty, hungry for peace, hungry for joy, hungry for love, your love. Rather than to fear the enormity of the world problems, we can act with courage, responding to the particular hunger we are called to feed... What we fear to be aware of does not go away. If anything, it only becomes more pronounced."

I have recently decided to experiment with my own life to find out what my purpose is in the world. I am hungry for that connection. I need to discover where I'm called to feed. I realized my work days are too long and take too much of my time. Time that is valuable and that I've been spending without much consideration, without knowing what it is being used for. As I mentioned here before, there are accomplishments... But beyond that, what is the impact I have on my family, friends and community?

In these holiday times, I'm questioning what I can give besides gifts? How can I give more daily throughout the year? What is really calling me out there?

Lately, I'm hungry for new skills and tools that I could perhaps use in my quest. So, I dared to ask for a little time off work to take some web design classes at BAVC.

It was an incredible gift to change my routine for the last couple of days. I was interested in everything around me. While on a walk in the Mission neighborhood at lunch, I stumbled at plenty fun graffiti, street murals and a great show called "Alter State" at Cell Space.

So I thought I'd share info on these two special "orgs" that serve the hunger of the world:

BAVC is a top notch nonprofit media arts center that makes emerging technology accessible to independent artists and other non profits.

Cell Space works with at-risk youth and artists to minimize violence, assemble and exhibit art, produce community events, organize and promote positive social change.

How is that for inspiration? It can be done, guys!

And how yummy is to find our calling and put some good back into the world?

There is especially one superhero that's been guiding me on how to do just that. And I want to welcome her beautiful new baby Ben here too! Congratulations to the beautiful family!

Guatemalan Worry Dolls, 2006

I wanted to share with you a little secret from the road: Worry Dolls.

I found them in Guatemala a couple of years ago. The indigenous Mayans make these cute colorful dolls out of scrap materials. They believe that before going to bed, you should write down your worries and put them in the tiny box. While you sleep, the little dolls will take your worries away.

Isn't that quite handy? And sweet?!

I started using them and then I learned that my favorite authors Anne Lamott and Sark make and use something similar which they call "God Box". Sark mentions it in her book Transformation Soup: Healing for the Splendidly Imperfect.

Now, you might not believe in it at first, because I didn't. But there is something to be said about writing it down and letting it go. Why not give it a try? Once I got pass my skepticism and believed in it, it worked for me indeed!

If anyone needs a worry doll box to get started, I'll be glad to ship the 8 extra ones I have, to the 8 lucky ones that ask first.

Put your worries out there and watch them disappear while miracles unfold...

* ps: Maryam, because of your post yesterday, I have one saved up for you :)

Purple Sunset ~ Best of 2006 ~ Lake Tahoe, December 2006

Happy New Year, everyone!

I spent the last 5 days retreating at a little cabin in Lake Tahoe. The picture above was taken from the porch. Isn't that just absolutely magical? It was truly a gift to have this view waiting for me when I woke up every morning, and at every sunset when I returned home, after playing in the snow. It gave me the opportunity to be grateful for my life every single day.

Whenever I am in a place of natural beauty like this, I'm always amazed at the clarity that immediately envelops me. Suddenly I know what is really important. That instance when I stop and look at the bigger picture, all the small stuff dissipates and I melt in wonder. In the last few days I experienced just that.

I was feeling calm and balanced, as I watched the snow gently falling down the road. The violet shadows on the white path, with no harsh edges, softening my heart. The branches of the trees feeling the weight, but gracefully taking on flake after flake. The crunchy sound I noticed, as my boots sank in at every step, and how I countered the slippery areas on my way with attention. The flatness of the lake as seen from my window, and at a closer look, its ripples and waves, reminding me of the need to step back for stillness. The sharp cold air piercing through my skin, proving me warm, and letting me know I was part of that moment.

There was hardly a need to think of New Year's resolutions in the greater scheme of things... I felt as whole as the world around me.

That's when I remembered a chapter in a book by Richard Carlson, where he suggests to ask a simple question everyday: What is really important?

So this is going to be my #1 intention for 2007: Focus on what really matters. When I'm rushing, working late, eating at my desk, skipping yoga, missing time with family and friends, facing a conflict, worrying... I'll try to observe if I'm loosing sight of what is important to me.

I believe we all know what we need to be happy. The real challenge is to be more aware of our decisions all day, all year long and throughout our lives, in order to appreciate and learn to be who we already are.

What is really important to you?

Early Morning ~ Peace, Backwaters, 2004

Peace

Peace of mind.
Peace when I sit with my thoughts and
Feel no anxiety about the future.
Contentment.

Peace in my words and colors.
Peace when I trust myself
And what is in my heart.
Solitude to create.

Peace in calm waters and quiet walks.
Peace when I'm at ease, instead of rushing.
Enough time to be kind
And grateful.

Peace of no regrets.
Peace in transparency and
Deep caring.
True Love.

Peace for the world.
Peace I bring when I'm in harmony.
All things considered.
Balance.

Peace to nurture the soul.
Peace to find and awaken
That divine spark, which is
Inside all of us.

Peace.

Namaste, Rishikesh, 2004.

I've been inspired by my fellow bloggers to think and write about gratitude. I must admit that this has been quite a challenge. What I realized, with some embarrassment, is that I am more often making lists about what I'd like to have, rather than showing deep appreciation for all the wonderful things that constantly bring me happiness.

So I started sitting with that word everyday: Gratitude. I learned that gratitude is a "magic token". The more I focus on the beauty around me in gratefulness, the more I am able to silence my anxiety and improve my well-being. Suddenly I am enough and I have enough. Hmmm. I can rest on that yumminess whenever I need to? Wow.That is such a comforting feeling!

Also, some other interesting questions have surfaced... Could I finally be learning that just being thankful is not enough? Perhaps acknowledgement is the first step towards gratitude. However, I am feeling that I am only truly grateful when I start doing something to put all the kindness, love, nourishment I receive, back into the world. Is it possible that I've been just plain lazy? All those thank you cards I did not send, the birthday parties I did not attend, remembering it's Tuesday and taking the trash out... for God's sake! Could that really make a difference? In me? And to the ones I'm sincerely grateful for?

Hence, a new intention. I shall bring this recognition into my yoga practice for the next month to breath into it, sweat it out and put all that warmhearted energy into action. I want to give, value and treasure more all the infinite sources of joy in my life.

Here are some treasures and opportunities for me to practice gratitude with: my loving supporting family, my lovely man, my artistic and splendid friends, this blogging community, my job, my comfy bed topped with fluffy blankets, all the incredibly delicious meals I'm lucky to have, warm clothes for the winter ahead... But I'm not going to bore you with all those things which ought to be my own life-long practice...

Below you'll find some juicy and less ethereal reasons for me to be grateful: (Caution: plain vain!!) I'm writing it down because I'm so lucky to have these things. Life is swell! Find these guilty pleasures in your own life. It feels good to know how we live in abundance without even knowing it. More importantly, it can change the way we look ahead...

Salty kisses from my love, after he's done surfing. Priceless!

Every sunshine day - Something to definitely be grateful for. Must be the Brazilian genes, guys... What can I say? But if you know me in person, you probably know to avoid me on some of those cloudy days...

My GAGGIA - For that much needed kick in the butt in the mornings! When did I get this picky? I'm not sure... Buying a fancy espresso machine certainly does not fit my nomad style. Although one thing I know. I like my crema and 140 degree foam! Secret: Since I took the plunge on this extravaganza, I am so much happier... So why not?

Juicy Couture - I told you this was gonna be vain! May I just say it for the record? Most of my much needed relaxation (and writing!) happens when I'm wearing these delicious pants, my friends! Yep. Try it. Warning: Uncontrollable desire to lounge for hours...

Better Botanicals - I sure can rough it up on the road, but still... I love to be throughly moisturized at all times. This,this and this are highly addictive. Gypsy Girl loves Ayurveda goodness!

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How about you? Can gratitude play a bigger role in your life?

Mongolia - Image kindly provided by Danielle Rubi & Stewart+Brown

I'm told that the experience of going to Mongolia is more appropriately described as stepping into another century. About forty percent of the country's population continues to live a traditional nomadic lifestyle, looking after farm animals and managing to coexist in harmony with the environment.

When I'm thinking Mongolia, I am daydreaming about the vast land of blue skies, Ghengis Khan, yurts, camels and dinosaurs at the Gobi desert, horse galloping, camping, hiking and of course, delicious cashmere!

But today, I'd like to promote a couple of unexpected Mongolian finds in perfect "Gypsy Girl" style.

The Mongolian Buryat Band: I was lucky enough to see their performance at the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco recently. Their music is a beautiful prayer. The incredible singer Badma KhandaIkh is accompanied by four other musicians playing exotic instruments such as: horse-head bass, harp, horse-head fiddle, iochin dulcimer, yatag zither, the lute; and are lead by throat singer and flute master Battuvshin Baldantseren. I'm not exactly drawn to art-folk music, but these guys took my breath away and literally had me in tears by the end of their show. Here is a link to their CD in partnership with trumpet player Roswell Rudd.

My find of the week: Stewart & Brown and their Mongolian cashmere collection. Could this be the perfect opportunity to indulge and get some warm, soft and stylish treasures? San Francisco's winter is promising some really cold nights this year (currently predicting 20F over the weekend). My favorites are these gloves and shoes! Gypsy Girl Style all the way! Make sure you do not miss the about and sketch book sections. Their mission and art are equally inspiring!

Last but not least (oh goodie, was that a cliche phrase for Poetry Thursday??), another great indie biz link: Check out Danielle Rubi's photography site. I am in love with her portraits and she is responsible for a lot of the eye candy on Stewart Brown's site, including the images shown here (Thanks, Danielle!).

Hope everyone is having a fantastic week. I'm having a hard time concentrating on anything rather than beautiful images and words on the web...

* Images used for this post were kindly lent by Danielle Rubi and Stewart+Brown. Thank you!

Somewhere between LA and Houston, 2003

Although I fully recommend The Secret, this post is not about the movie. I'm here to open up and uncover something that has been bubbling inside me. In other words, I'm ready to talk about my secret.

It feels that since I started blogging, I suddenly feel more alive. I'm happier in general. I'm connecting with kindred souls and feeling less frustrated with the fact that not everyone around me shares the same interests. I feel less alone when I go on my usual walks and stop to take a picture, for instance. I have more tolerance for a frantic work day. I'm more aware. I listen more.

Before finding the blog community, I always felt that I was the only one contemplating, daydreaming and looking deeper at everything happening in my life. I used to feel guilty about that too. After all, there are so many things that need to be done! Now I find comfort in your stories, you poetry, your images and the beauty you share. I feel like I belong.

I also realized that blogging is transforming how I look at my day. There have been times when I was so disillusioned with the lack of creativity in my life, that I had no motivation to go outside anymore, which is not at all the gypsy girl style! Now, I want to get out of bed and go live a fun adventure, just so I can share it here. I want to explore and dare doing the things I am passionate about, just so we can look at it together. I want to go traveling to show you the world as I see it. And I long for the support and growth we will create, despite all doubt and fear.

So I'm walking around with this secret. I have this treasure that is worth billions of smiles... No one knows... I'm the secret agent that discreetly logs in, and with stealth, logs out... Full of inspiration...

My secret to the rest of the world is that I'm a blogger now. And somewhat a geek. But somewhere between the two, I recognize the real me, living a fuller life and sparkling with hope!

Is your blogging life a delicious secret?

Magic Pond, Golden Gate Park, San Francisco, 2006

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Maggy Mason, San Francisco's Mighty Girl of Might Goods, instructs on page 31 of her blogging book: Share your expertise!

When I first read that chapter over the holidays though, nothing occurred to me. I quickly turned the page and felt inadequate and incapable of prescribing a magic recipe of any kind. What do I know after all?

But what I realized since then, is that we all have our special ways of doing things... And as a matter of fact, this gypsy girl here, has no shortage of curious habits either!

This weekend, for example, I had some friends visiting from out of town and I was showing them different neighborhoods and favorite local spots. While doing this, I noticed with how much conviction I recommend my places of choice in the city. I take all my guests to have brunch at Zazie, coffee and delicacies at Tartine, picnic at Dolores Park, free wireless, music, arts and crafts @ Canvas Gallery, the magic pond at Golden Gate park (above)... My list goes on and on, and I'm sure that with a little work, it could even turn into my own little handbook with "100 Gypsy Tips to San Francisco" (no pun intended ;P)! More important to observe however, is the fact that we seem to take our expertise for granted. We end up bypassing ourselves as legitimate resources for all that is juicy and fun...

Could we all hold much more knowledge than we give ourselves credit for?

Another fun silly tip I'm willing to share is my "3 minute rule". I started experimenting with it last year and I swear by it these days. As most of you probably know, San Francisco is a "pain" to park. Or shall I say it used to be? I have tested and proved a brilliant technique to solve that problem. (No... I no longer call on the "parking fairies"!) My rule is that if I am willing to wait only 3 minutes anywhere, or more precisely, in front of where I need to park, a spot will free up for me within that time. This rule has never failed me once yet. It is pretty funny to watch my own disbelief in wanting to circle the block after only a minute. All I need is the patience to hang in there a little longer. If I do, I always get the perfect spot. During the holiday shopping spree, as you might wonder, it was no different. There was even one particular day, December 23, when I waited somewhat doubtful for 2 and half minutes and no cars moved. With my rule practically expired, I turned my engine and was ready to circle the block. Surprisingly, before I pressed on first gear, the sweetest lady came running towards my car and said: "Wait! I see you've been waiting on a spot for a couple of minutes. I'm just picking up my daughter. I can circle the block instead, since I'm not sticking around. A spot is hard to come by around here. Go ahead and take my space, please!" And just like that, I had my confirmation": the 3 minute rule works every time. No stress and 100% success guaranteed!

How about you? Do you have any miracle tips? I'm ready to try them all!!!

Fierce Sky, Maui, 2003

It's Thursday and decided to join the fun here.
We were asked to choose a phrase suggested by a poet and run with it...
I chose Becca's. Thank you for the inspiration, Becca!

Here it is:
A line and a voice

I've been searching
endlessly
for this voice of mine.

I've been meaning,
not beginning
to open up.

I've been looking
for a place in me
with honest words
images and colors
thoughts
overwhelmingly
bright.

I've been searching
endlessly
for this voice of mine.

I've been tossing
and turning
throughout the night.

I've been looking
for a place
in my dreams
undoubtedly
kind.

I've been searching
endlessly
for this voice of mine.

I've been wondering
When will I wake up
Where is my spirit and
What am I so afraid of?

I've been searching
endlessly
for this voice of mine.

And I'm sorry to say
I've been wasting my time
looking solely
at the world inside.

There is no point
in finding a voice
when I can be silenced
~ everyday ~
by the sunrise.

Monsoon, Kerala, 2004

"You are all drenched for it is raining hard. In my world it is always fine weather. There is no night or day, no heat or cold. No worries beset me there, nor regrets. My mind is free of thoughts, for there are no desires to slave for."
sri nisargadatta maharaj

We had lovely weather here in San Francisco this weekend. However, I chose this image and quote for my post, because together they combine successfully, a couple of ingredients I am struggling to balance in my life: softness and strength.

I reflected on the areas of my life where I've had lots of "rain" lately. Why am I feeling drenched?

The truth is that I'm striving for a work life that will nourish and support me on my inner journey. I am a little hesitant to discuss my professional life online, but it's been very hard to steer away from it, when so much of my time is devoted to my job. So, without getting into the specifics, I decided to raise here some of the questions I have, to see if any of you out there would relate in any way.

I currently have a leadership position in a field where most of the "creatives" and decision makers are older and male, or else, very aggressive females. I feel constant pressure to prove myself through my assertiveness. I feel a huge challenge to keep my guard up on negotiations. I don't like having to expect the worse from people. I like to believe they will be honest in their part of the transaction. I find it really discouraging when trusting is not an option. I dislike seeing individuals call out weakness in others, in order to make themselves look good. Witnessing the "finger pointing" instead of team work. I don't like being on defense/offense mode all the time either. And I feel horrible when I find myself slipping into these sort of actions as well. Does anyone out there feel the same? Is this a common scene in business relations? It seems like the ego is ruling the workplace. Men and women alike are letting their competitiveness win over their core values. I am also afraid that the corporate system is encouraging this destructive behavior, with their uneven compensation and benefit system. Is there a way to be strong yet gentle, in this kind of environment?

I've given this a lot of thought and a major part of me just wants to develop my own "soul supporting" business. In the meantime though, as I was discussing with a dear friend yesterday, how can we all help to reverse this formula? Could it be our purpose, to help change this business model through developing our own inner strength?

As you can see, I have a lot of questions, as usual. =) But at yoga the other day, I had a little epiphany (or at least an idea!). When we are holding a pose and we start perfecting it, we ground ourselves through our feet and at the same time, lengthen through our arms and the crown of our heads. This beautiful concept of opposition creates more stability from our center, and allows us to hold a stronger pose in balance. Would it be possible to apply the same theory at work?

The process would be similar to the practice on the mat, I think. We would need to take a breath first, before reacting. Once we knew clearly where we wanted to go, we would ground ourselves in our thorough knowledge of the situation. We would initiate the move with intention from our center, and not from our ego. Then, consciously, we could perhaps expand and offer a firm solution with a soft heart. What do you think? Something to try out...

When I was taking the boat ride above and it started to rain, I was a bit upset and thought the weather was ruining the experience. Instead, the simplicity of the man above, changed my point of view with his very clever insight and bright attitude. He calmly opened his umbrella and cheerfully continued to guide us along the backwaters. He did not feel bothered by the rain at all. He told us stories about the monsoons and countered my whining, with a very confident lesson. He said: "Every experience is an opportunity for devotion, madam. This is the point of living: to find God and good always and everywhere."

The practice continues...

Can I gracefully open my umbrella at work and sail through the storm?

New beginnings, Black Rock City, NV, 2005

"Vitality shows in not only the ability to persist but the ability to start over." ~ F. Scott Fitzgerald

First of all, I wanted to thank you for your comments and e-mails regarding my last post. I appreciate you taking the time to write and offer your support. You are the best! =D

This week I came across a couple of articles in the Yoga Journal magazine, discussing intentions and the process of starting over. These articles totally changed my attitude. In fact, they brought me the first sunshine after the monsoon!

In one of these articles, Phillip Moffitt described the means of setting an intention as "aligning with the deepest part of yourself while surrendering to the reality that you often get lost in your wanting mind."

This was such an eye opening phrase to me. How often do we make resolutions and fiercely go through our lists until suddenly, life happens! At first, our "wanting mind" sets targets that are crisp, clear and very ambitious. Soon, reality kicks in and we get overwhelmed, we miss our marks, we become frustrated and possibly even give up on our dreams.

I certainly have done this in regards to the gym, yoga, relationship, savings, eating habits, work and my art. I've set unrealistic goals at pretty much every area of my life and got disappointed when I couldn't cope. It is hard to keep up the good work 24/7, isn't it? And for me, it's even harder to deal with the notion of failure. I never surrender and forgive myself right away.To the contrary, I am fast to judge myself and complain. Does this happen to you too?

When I fail a couple of times in a row... My God! I start feeling like I don't even know who I am anymore. I allow 'purple gremlins' to quickly gather around to tell me the craziest things: "You'll never pull that off. What a fraud! Maybe just give up. This is stupid. Why bother? You can't change, silly!"

But what I realized (thanks to Phillip Moffitt!) is that I'm just resisting the best part: I CAN start over anytime! What if instead of reacting emotionally, I could just notice that there is need for re-alignment? Doesn't it feel much more positive that way? It also implies that I do know where my center is. All I have to do is reconnect with my intention. From that perspective, I can start over joyfully every time, because it really isn't a brand new start, it's the continuation of my practice. Ahhhhh...

If I'm meditating and my mind starts wildly jumping away... I can refocus on the breath and... Start over. If I'm loosing my patience at work and getting frustrated... I shall step back and... Start over. If I have been missing yoga and feeling unbalanced... I can show up and... Start over. If I am not eating healthy this week... I can grab an apple and... Start over.

This was such a revelation to me. We can start over, guys! It's okay. We all do it, right? So we might as well enjoy the opportunity to try once again, and re-discover the truth and beauty in our hearts.

I'm hoping that this exercise will lead me to more acceptance and self knowledge. I'm also getting the feeling that if I'm connected with my intentions and willing to start over, I'll stay on the right path, and therefore, I'll more likely achieve my goals.

How about you? Are there any areas where you need to start over?

Lands' End Labyrinth, San Francisco, 2007

*****
First of all ~ Vote for My Marrakesh!!! ~ If you have not discovered this enchanting blog yet, take my advice: Grab a nice cup of coffee (or Moroccan Mint tea) and be delighted as you peruse through Maryam's exotic colorful pictures and charming posts. Then, vote for My Marrakesh as Best African/ Middle Eastern Blog at the 2007 Bloggie Awards. Voting will close at 10:00 PM EST on Friday, February 2. Do it!!!

******

This weekend I decided to dedicate my entire Saturday to working on my GLOW.

I started my day with a carrot, apple, parsley, ginger juice! YUM! Have you guys discovered the joys of juicing yet? I got a fabulous juicer a couple of years ago and I've been hooked ever since. Of course, I owe it to him, my "Juice(y)man" who bought me the machine, and who is sweet enough to treat me to his specialty elixirs every weekend. I'm afraid not all these machines come with a "Juice(y)man"... But perhaps could attract one? =)

After my energizing drink, I went on a healing walk starting at the Sutro Baths and ending at Eagles Point. I highly recommend this walk if you are a visitor looking for a less touristy view of San Francisco, or even if you're a local interested in some moderate exercise and fresh air. This beautiful 2 mile road starts at the north end of Ocean Beach and goes along the water all the way to Land's End (on the west side of the Golden Gate Bridge). About half a mile in, you get to Mile Rock Beach, which is a quiet spot surrounded by cliffs and trees. On low-tide clear days, it is possible to walk by the water, sit on the rocks and gaze at the Marin Headlands.

Thankfully, I was able to do just that. It was kind of an overcast morning and everything looked rather silver and mysterious when I arrived there. I walked towards the south of the beach and sat on the tallest furthest rock I could find. One of the special features of this walk is the fact that even though you are technically inside the city, you don't hear any traffic whatsoever. So I took the opportunity to be alone there, to slow down and listen to the continuous sound of the waves gentling rolling in and out... I tried to match my breath to it and relax deeply. After about 30 minutes in the chilling air, it was time to start walking again to generate some heat. I noticed a path leading to a plateau over the water, which I had never explored before. To my surprise, there it was: The Land's End Labyrinth. The Labyrinth was created in 2004, but I'd never heard of it until recently, when she mentioned it to me... What a pleasant new discovery! After I walked my way in and out of the Labyrinth's center, I climbed the hill behind it and watched its magic from above. I finally witnessed why Labyrinths are considered a shrine to peace. In order to go through it, everyone gets into somewhat a meditative state. It was fun to watch people walking through it with a smile, taking their time to figure it out and paying attention to their every step. For more information (and photos!) on San Francisco Labyrinths go here.

Following my wholesome morning, I headed to Cafe Gratitude for a nutritious and delicious meal. Meggy says "nobody cares what you had for lunch". But I suppose that when your lunch is called "I'm flourishing" you must mention it. Check out the menu to get an idea of what to expect from this alternative cafe. Definitely not an option if you're a big meat eater or seeking pub grub. Instead, be prepared for a very (I mean VERY!) "new agey" vibe and tasty healthy food.

My next stop: Mani and Pedi. How can you glow without them? Here is my favorite salon for those special days when you're willing to pay what it takes to feel like a princess. More importantly, it is right next to another haven in the city. Ladies and Gentlemen (Yes! Gentlemen too!) I'm thrilled to present the best massage spa in town. Therapeia is the place where I indulge ocasionally, in the hands of my beloved therapist, Jeannelle! How can you not melt? Byzantine chants creating a soft mood in the background... And among other treats, an eucalyptus scented hot towel placed slowly on your face, right before your head-face massage. Ahhhhhhh...

You might be wondering... Is that day over yet? Well... I warned you that this was about glowing! So for the "grand finalle" and for the good night of sleep that followed it: hot tea, sake and sushi! If you live in the city, check out Sunset's best kept secret: Goemon! Here you'll have an authentic sushi bar experience and perhaps a few too many sake cups...

Needless to say... I started my week GLOWING!

How about you? Is it time for you to dedicate an entire day to "working" on your GLOW?

Meet me here, Nevada, 2006

Meet me here

Meet me here
With your heart open.
Meet me at the start of your day
Or perhaps, when the sun goes down.

Meet me for tea wearing pajamas
Or in the studio to play with paints.
Meet me in colors, words, crayons.
Meet me in the pictures they lost
and now we collect.

Meet me here
with a truth and a tale.
Show me the view from your room
The snow on your window and
The smile of your kid.

Meet me at the red swing in the park,
Where the sunshine meets our shoulders
And we fly up and high
Towards the sky.

Meet me here
With your favorite costume
And the key to that safe place
Where we are ~ once again ~
Little children with dreams.

Meet me here
Where it's you and I
Plus hope.

****
I just learned that I was nominated for the "Share the Love Blog Awards" - created by Heather at One Woman's World. I'm so surprised and excited to be included in this group of fantastic women, among which are some of my favorite reads: Tara, Liz, Laini, Alexandra, Asma, Frida, Karen and Andrea (which I'll never stop reading...).

I must say though, I'm especially blown away by being chosen for the category: "Blogger that you most would like to meet!" I feel lucky to be part of this virtual revolution of goodness! I also need your stories, images and hope. You make a huge positive impact in my world and it's indeed my very own wish to meet you too... In words over here or in real life someday.

Big thank you for this gift!

Vote for your favorites here by Feb 6 and share the love!

**********************
Voting to determine five finalists in each of ten categories concludes at midnight Tuesday, Feb. 6. Voters may vote only once in each category. Finalists will be announced on Wednesday, Feb. 7. Final voting will then continue until midnight on Tuesday, Feb. 13. Winners and runners-up will be announced on Valentine's Day, February 14. So please help "Share the Love" and vote!

Lotus, GG Park, San Francisco, 2006

Today I offer you a beautiful lotus.

"The lotus flower is considered sacred among many cultures. With its roots in the mud, the lotus rises through the murky waters to blossom clean and bright. It symbolizes purity, resurrection and the enlightened being who emerges beautifully despite the chaos and illusions of the world. It is a reminder of the miracle of beauty, light and life, and communicates an understanding of our place in the world."

It's perfect for how I feel today after posting something so sad, personal and revealing... I offer here my best shot at bringing more magic, truth and inspiration into the world!

Dancing with Change, 2005

Dancing with Change

I've been dancing with change all my life.
I use well the quickstep
To go away and towards it.
My signature move is to
Dance around the world.
Skip, hop and finally,
Bounce back, when I'm ready
To join once again
The line dance.

In terms of timing,
If change meets me when I need it
You can see dance in my eyes.
But if it catches me by surprise,
I suddenly loose my step in the swing.
If I attempt a twirl, I trip
And before I can whip myself up
The next song is on.

For matters of the heart
I've learned to watch changes closely.
You can press cheeks together for bolero
And in the midst of a rave,
Stomp all you want.
But in love, make no mistake:
You need two to tango.

My biggest longing for change, though,
Is learning how to receive it.
I've been often known to lead the dance
Rather than to follow it.
My wish is to let go of my shoes to
Fall into the arms and
Rhythm of the universe.

I want to hear the beat,
Catch my breath and
Watch what happens
In that twist,
Where I finally
Find contentment
Right where I stand.

*************************************

For more changes go here!

Happy Faces, Happy Valentine's day!

The last few days I've been desperately looking for my muses. It has been impossible for me to stop long enough to create.

Do you also need to unwind for a while before you can create? My boyfriend always says, use the next thirty minutes to do it. Well, for any other activity, I could indeed use a quick half hour to get something done. But with Art & Heart intertwined, I need loads of breathing room. I require at least that much time completely immobile and doing absolutely nothing, before inspiration can move within me. Do you experience that as well?

I feel like my muses are sitting outside right now, on some random and poorly furnished waiting room, listening to "on hold" music, while I scramble to rearrange the life inside. And sadly, it looks like I'll have to reschedule their appointment with me once again today.

It doesn't mean that things are bad, though. I have been very productive at work lately, and I actually had a fantastic weekend out of town, seeing friends and going to a fancy Film Awards Event in Los Angeles! But in the midst of all the busyness (and black tie fun!), I've been longing for that quiet moment when I can truly taste, see and feel the world around me. I've been meaning to photograph, draw, paint and write about it. But it seems like I'm just not available to my muses right now.

In the meantime, and in hopes of gaining access to my inspiration, I've been listening to music (that makes me happy) on my way to work, I'm reading a delicious book (History of Love) at lunchtime, and I'm at least glancing at a quote, before I go to bed. I decided that I always have time to do that bit, no matter how busy I am. These simple things are my phone calls and emails to my muses. "Hey, what do you think about that? It's too bad we can't meet up today, but I thought I'd say hi. Smile. Isn't that beautiful?!" I'm learning that it is by sending love to my muses whenever I can, even if it's brief, that I can find the bridge from the mundane world that tires me out, to the soulful world, where I am full of joy and energy.

Another recent experiment of mine is to listen attentively to all the conversations around me, notice people's voices and observe them with the intent of studying their uniqueness. There is so much to work with: features, grace, age, color and lighting. I watch them as closely as I'd do it, if I were to draw them. This practice is like bringing out the shiny gold from the dark mine, guys! You should try! I could say that these life studies are my flowers and thank you cards to my muses. It's an acknowledgment of their presence everywhere and in everyone around me.

At last, I want to share a quote and an exercise that pulls all these musings together. I found it in a writing book I've playing with: "Stirring the Waters" by Janell Moon.

"During the day, our souls gather their impressions of us, how our lives feel... Our spirits collect these impressions, keep them together, like wisps of smoke in a bag. Then, when we are asleep, our brains open up these bags of smoke... Take a look. "Marsha Norman

Now, close your eyes and go into a dream. Later, recount it. I'm going to do that tonight (dream) and tomorrow (write). FYI. I never seem to have exciting dreams, but I'll try anyway. Maybe I just haven't given my dreams a real chance... That will be my valentine's gift to my muses: Try something new and exciting that will inspire me!

How about you? What do you do to love your muses? Isn't it time to show some love?

Much Love to you and to your muses!

Happy Valentine's day!

Mon Cheri, Berkeley, 2007

"More and more I see how true is the Hindu idea that a man may leave family and responsibilities and become a "holy" man, a wanderer, in old age, in order to complete himself - a time for laying aside all that has pulled the soul from nature, from pure contemplation." May Sarton ~ Journal of a Solitude

Lunch time comes around and I don't feel hungry. All I want is a break to run out and see you. I drive about 10 minutes to our meeting point. You're there already, as usual. You're always there for me. Today is another beautiful sunny day. The light here in Berkeley has been exquisite lately. I'm bringing my camera in hopes of striking a pic or two. I like how the light wraps around and accentuates your delicate features. I want to examine all your hues and shades carefully. I want to study the lines in your profile and their relationship to the sky. I want to capture your confident form and your effortless grace.

I arrive and promptly get on with my ritual of laying out my quilt on the ground and taking my shoes off. I like to feel the soft grass between my toes for a second (and giggle!) before I lay down next to you. Today I don't need to talk. Actually, we hardly ever need words anyway... I know you don't expect me to say a thing. When I'm with you, it's all about our comfortable silence and the gentle breeze brushing against us.

A couple of birds come up to you. I envy you for that. How do you do it? I wonder if you could teach me how to attract beauty and blend in with the natural world like that. I don't have much time, though. Soon I have to go back to the chores, the job tasks and the structure that keeps me from feeling open like this.

Another breath. The noise and confusion that infiltrate my day have melted away now. In this moment of quietness, poetry and nature... I am complete, I am enough.

A butterfly circles around you, flaps its orange wings and comes to land on my bag.

Tell me... Does that mean I am already making progress?

****

For more unnamed beautiful things... Go here!

Between the lines, San Francisco, 2006

This week I am pushing myself to be more transparent and to magnify all the thoughts and ideas I am usually too careful about. I want to experiment with exposure, embarrassment, imperfection and truth. My heart is wide open.

Between the lines

Between the lines lay our truths.
Next to them sit the fear of failure
And our friend safety.
By their side, hope doesn't stand a chance
And tears roll quietly down the blank space.

Thoughts of regret follow
Sweet little lies down a straight
And predictable path.
Passion is muted by the void
We create, as we let anxiety
Take over the smallest gaps.

Things are left unsaid and silence
Commands a new direction.
Before we know it, a joke
Covers up the surface and
Shadows of laughter and resentment
Obscure the purity once found
In fantasy and dream.

Timing finally wins over truth.
Soon is too late now
To find the way back to possibility.
A moment of restraint is enough
To stop the flow of emotions.
A lack of faith deviates us
From full acceptance and true living.

Sometimes I wish we had
Subtitles beneath our hearts.
I wish we could read
What can't be translated.
I wish there was a way to
Understand the mystery
Behind the logic
That keeps us hiding
And seeking
What can be found, surely,
When we expose the truths
That lay between the lines.

Sweet times with Leonie Wise, San Francisco, 2007.

This weekend I had the pleasure of meeting one of my "bloggie" mates ~ Leonie Wise ~ from Chocolate Covered Musings ~ and her sweet husband Nic. Leonie was one of my