All posts by Francine

Life, Travel

A golden opportunity

9 Comments

For years I’ve dreamed about experiencing the Golden Door. Rated as the World’s Most Iconic spa by Conde Nast (article below), is certainly appealing and note-worthy, though I knew there was much more behind “the door” even beyond their noteworthy and very prestigious ranking. It took an unfortunate tragedy in my life to lead me to this golden property, for which I further understand what a magical chance this was to finally check in at the Golden Door.

This is, by no means, just a place to go and be pampered- though fear not- you will be pampered…til you can’t be pampered no more. Though the real beauty about this place is so much more than the pristine grounds and architecture, The Golden Door offers some of the best classes and treatments a gal could ask for. The Door is, simply put, transformational. In one day, I went on a 5 mile sunrise hike, had a massage, got a pedicure, had a full hour reiki private session, learned Fencing, took a meditation class, attended a sound bath and called it a night. I mean seriously? This is how we should live each and every day. (clearly I’m still basking in the golden glow of this place)

Just before the holidays I lost my best friend in the world-my one and only sibling, my brother. His passing was not only sudden it was a complete and utter heartbreak. I shut down- not eating, not sleeping, and completely dehydrated unless you count endless caffeine, so I guess you could say I was past dehydration, if you want to be real about it. Needless to say the grieving was taking quite a toll on me-body, mind and soul. Fortunately, I knew that if I was to continue on in this life without him I needed to find a way back to me. Back to life. Find a way, a reason to go on without him.

This lead me down the freeway to a small town in North County San Diego, to the Golden Door. I checked in on December 30th for 4 nights of checking out, to check in. And that’s exactly what I did- I checked IN. It was time to rest, relax, cry, grieve and write to get it all out. I have for so long eagerly awaited my chance to come to this beautiful retreat away yet at this time I was overwhelmed with such grief and thus filled with anxiety about what this experience would be. How could I possibly grieve around 30 random women I’ve never met before? As I had been in hiding since his passing, unable to talk to even those I love the most In my life. I truly was shut down and checked out.

To my surprise, It was as if the magic began the moment I stepped through the doors. From the breathtaking awe inspiring grounds, to the thoughtful detail that went into everything for my stay. Fully customized just for little ol’ moi. I’ve never in my life been so cared for and felt so supported. And this was just from Golden Door and its staff. The most beautiful gift was In the company I kept. Every. single. Woman. was amazing- truly phenomenal women. It’s as if we were bonded in sisterhood day one. Never have I shared such intimate vulnerable, emotionally provoking connection with women of all ages in my life. We all quickly came to realize that we all had our own lives at homes and challenges in life that came with it. And we were here to celebrate, grieve and honor one another-strangers or not, it didn’t matter. In fact, that amazing gift of holding space for one another was remarkable. Exactly what I needed to bear witness to- the beautiful gift of humanity and an authentic connection. To hug, to show love and support for someone you just met. I have never felt so supported in my life. I know this is precisely what I was asking for following the loss of my brother, as I had lost faith and hope in this world. I must say with complete gratitude that thankfully the Golden Door offered me the golden opportunity of a lifetime to connect, to heal and to commune with loving, kind souls who I will forever appreciate.

Thank you Golden Door for helping to heal this broken heart of mine and for the beautiful community of women who happened upon one another to enjoy this life together. I am forever grateful.

To explore your own transformative, golden experience- Check out what’s behind that beautiful door.
https://goldendoor.com

https://www.cntraveler.com/story/the-golden-door-is-the-worlds-most-iconic-spa


Culture, Travel

an honorary Latina with a love for Mexico

I’m beyond grateful for the chance to enjoy living alongside Mexico for the last 19 beautiful years.  Living in San Diego for close to a decade, Mexico became that familiar neighbor,  that’s so closely intertwined into your community.  It may seem rather odd that a gal from my Lancaster, Pennsylvanian (Amish country) would have such a connection and love for Mexico.  Having only studied French, oddly enough, I’ve always had a deep connection to Latin cultures and was thrilled for the opportunity to learn more about my neighboring . For over 6 years, I headed up marketing and partnerships for a shopping center that drew in a very large, consistent and loyal Mexican National shopper.   I’ve built multiple homes for families in Tijuana and Tecate- days that (still to this day) are some of my most amazing days of my life.  Then, having had the chance to work across the border I expanded my reach beyond TJ and Baja, to Guadalajara, Monterrey and Mexico City.  Now that some of my closest friends were either born in or are Mexican, it was time for me to get to know Mexico.  Beyond the border and above the sea.  The heart of Mexico.  Mexico City.

Working with and spending time with all my friends from TJ, it quickly became a joke (that apparently seemed to stick) was that I was their honorary Latina.  Although I’ve traveled to many places within Mexico, I was beyond eager to really dive into Mexico City.  Quite literally, since Mexico City sits upon it’s original watery roots.  It’s been built upon the sea.  And thus the reason you will notice many sidewalks even structures set unevenly along your path.  Though this city offers endless history and connections to it’s long standing past.  This city has seen it’s share of tragedy.  And yet the history offers something phenomenal.  An energy that’s hard to explain. And that’s not just near the mystical pyramids- yet often throughout this place.  From the ruins, to the museum district, set within a gorgeous green-for-days park- there’s boundless offerings within the city.  As for dining you can enjoy the simple pleasures of street taco’s to the gourmet and delectable food offerings in some of the trendy hot spots of Polanco, Condesa and Roma.  However, as luck would have it…and as a true Francophile, I ended up staying on the Champs Elysees in Polanco.  (Apparently, even in Mexico I can’t help but be drawn to most things Parisian!)  Though this is Not Paris…This is Mexico City…with plenty to taste, see, hear and explore.  Here’s a list for starters:

Teotihuacan Pyramids–  Barrio de la Purificacion, San Juan Teotihuacán, State of Mexico, Mexico
A Must see and UNESCO World Heritage Site, be sure to make Teotihuacan a priority for your visit to Mexico City. An abandoned city with pyramids and temples as far as the eye can see.  (And of course, the views from the top of the pyramids aren’t too shabby either- as they offer miles of endless views)  Not to mention, the energy is simply incredible.  You could sense the energy and the differences between the sun and moon pyramid.  One was ‘light and fluffy'(sun)- the other pyramid was more dark and ominous (moon).  While on top of the Sun pyramid, there were butterflies all around, children laughing, overall just a great vibe.  However, on the moon pyramid (which is known to have played host for sacrifices.  Fascinating to see and experience the difference between the two.  As for a visit to the pyramids-  I’d highly suggest a morning arrival during the warm months (most of the year) as it gets rather toasty out there…especially while climbing up and down pyramids for most of your visit.

La Gruta– Circuito Arqueologico, San Francisco Mazapa, 55820 San Juan Teotihuacán, MEX, Mexico
Have you ever dreamed of dining in a Cave?  Even if not, the answer is still YES.  Just a quick drive out of the pyramids to a real deal, gorgeous…and might I add romantic restaurant that resides within a cave.  Day or night, this cave is candlelit and inviting.  In fact, before exiting the cave one is to light a candle as they embark on……..
Even Travel & Leisure makes note of this special place:
http://www.travelandleisure.com/food-drink/restaurants/mexico-city-cave-restaurant

Chapultepec Castle– a beautiful castle, turned museum that resides on the top of the hill upon Chapultepec Park.  (A park that offers a beautiful park experience, in addition to endless museums and culture gathered in this stunning retreat within the city.

National Museum of Anthropology (Museo Nacional de Antropologia)-
Avenida Paseo de la Reforma | Chapultepec Polanco, Mexico City 11560, Mexico
Far and away one of the best natural history museums across the globe.  Be sure to allow ample time as there is much to discover and explore within!

and…as if this even needs to be said:  OBVIOUSLY, there are plenty of amazing eats around this city.  From street tacos in what looks to be a drive through parking lot- that will blow your mind, to the culinary masterpieces found all over this fabulous city.  Mexico City is sure to satiate your senses with its cuisine and beyond……..

 

Beer.  Tacos.  Any questions?

A view from the top.  Moon pyramid.

Just a teaser of the pyramids.  Go for yourself and see!

La Gruta- dining in a cozy, candlelit cave.

 
Culture, Travel

Learning the Hustle in Marrakesh

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For many years I have longed to go to Morocco.  I had planned to go a few times before and each time something happened that prevented me from going.  Though learning how to trust in the timing of life is one of my biggest goals and concentrations- so certainly it makes sense that it has been a journey to go on a journey to Morocco.  This time, I was bringing along my 67 year old mother.  Now let me tell you this is no ordinary 67 year young woman.  She is absolutely fabulous.  A fit blonde who is ever stylish with energy for days.  Yep.  Me and my cute little mom on an journey to Morocco.  I wanted to ensure we had a full experience so we coupled Morocco with Portugal.  I mean in the grand scheme of things they’re right next door.  It would be a miss not to indulge in one more country while in the neighborhood.

So, off we flew to Lisbon where we spent two lovely days and nights before off on our trip to Morocco.  First up, Casablanca which thankfully was merely a 7 hour layover- offering more than ample time to take a peek at the madness that is Casa.  (As the locals call it)  That evening, we were off again.  This time to Marrakech (As the French spell it).  Arriving at night, was probably not the most ideal scenario.  For one, taxi’s are always there to be negotiated with.  However, at night they request bigger fares for the same route…simply because they can.  Our driver was very sweet and drove us into the medina where our Riad was located.  Unfortunately, the alleyways which most riads are located are down small corridors where cars are unable to drive-(This is saying a lot for the already insane driving that you experience with Morocco)  So, our driver dropped us and our bags off at the corner where he thought our riad would be, on this small street.  Instantly, we were greeted by a highly boozed up man who claimed he worked this alley to help people find their riad, and all at no cost to us. (Free! Hmmmm.)  We tried numerous times to let him know we were all set and didn’t need his alleged services.  Clearly we needed guidance, as it can be beyond confusing trying to find what alleyway, yet alone which doorway is yours.  Nonetheless,  we were not looking for him to take us there.  Regardless, he led us down a very dark corridor to our riad where I started ringing the doorbell with reckless abandon in hopes they would come and Save Us!  I ran into the riad and the owner kindly escorted this drunken hustler away.  Regardless of being safe and sound in our new home for the next two nights, we were a tad freaked out.  Just arriving in a very new country and significant change in culture had left us feeling a bit frazzled.  We decided to enjoy the Riad’s rooftop and hit the hay early that night as an entire day of adventure awaited us the very next day.

It began with a french breakfast- nothing here for me not to love.  Followed by having to hunt down a cab and head to our appointment at Les Bains de Marrakech.  My very first time at a Houmam.  Lets just say I hope it’s not my last.  It was heavenly.  They wash you down with black soap.  Followed by one of the most intense scrubs I’ve experienced to date.  And lastly a mask painted onto your body for you to then lie inside the intense sauna heat and bake, baby, bake.  Then it was onto a shower, some poolside relaxation then off to an hour long massage.  All for the incredible price of around 60 euro’s.  Oui, Oui, S’il Vous Plait!!

Clearly after all of this relaxation, we were in need of some amazing Moroccan cuisine.  Rooftop, with views of the city and the sounds of call to prayer.  The call to prayer is something I’ve not experienced before.  So captivating.  So unique.  Sent chills down my spine each and every time.

We managed, as we always do to fit some market shopping in before rushing off to the new YSL museum.  We had hoped to tour the Majorelle gardens as well, though time didn’t allow for all of it.  Regardless, the museum was an intimate showcase of timeless YSL designs and couture.

No trip to Morocco would be complete without a trip to the desert.  On a camel, of course.  This, although super touristic, was such a special treat for my mom and I to enjoy together.  Sure we were dressed in the traditional garb and took endless photo’s of us on our new found transportation.  It was certainly memorable.

The night finished off in a traditional fashion- by taking in the sights and sounds of the souks.  It’s more than I could have even imagined.  Stimulation from every side.  Every where you looked- someone was hustling to get you into eat at their food stand, to take a picture with their chain linked monkey, to paying for a band whose singer has a goat on his head.  You can’t make this shit up!  It was intense.  Every where you looked, you were either fending off someone attempting to sell you something or making sure your purse was still attached.  Everyone claiming to be offering you something for “no money!”  Oddly enough then they most all request 60 euros.  For just about anything.  So, after endless No’s and trying to keep moving in the souks, clearly it was time for a drink.  We were spent.  Mentally.  So on to dinner we quickly escorted ourselves to a second floor restaurant within the heart of the souk.  And the traditions didn’t stop there.  We sat with live music, belly and candelabra donned dancers while taking in all the flavors of Morocco.  Following dinner, we felt more relaxed having finished off a bottle of wine. We were now officially ready to take on the madness of the market.  Or so I thought.

Just moments later, as we were onto shop around a lantern stall, a woman comes up and starts drawing henna all over my hand.  And I do mean ALL OVER.  My hand, my wrist and every single finger now covered in henna.  In just the blink of an eye.  In fact it happened so quickly i didn’t have time to respond and actually pull my hand away from what had quickly become her canvas.  As lovely as it looked- it was not something I wanted.  Especially since in just 3 days I’d be back to the corporate world in the US where Henna painted all over ones hand isn’t necessarily the corporate look my company is looking for. Not to mention, she was now trying to hustle me for…can you guess?  Yep, you guessed it 60 euros.

After this experience, I was officially over the hustle and bustle of the souks, so we decided to pack up our finds and call it a night.  If only we still had our handy dandy and ever loyal camels to carry us back home, our night would have been ever complete.   Nonetheless, we had the chance to experience Morocco in all it’s madness, mayhem, delight and wonder.   I hope to return some day- fully armed and ready to Do the Hustle.  Until next time, Marrakesh.

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Life

Homecoming

For as long as I can recall I’ve had what was before a bit of a quiet obsession with France.  Growing up with a Grandfather who traveled the world a zillion times.  Even going to Epcot at DisneyWorld meant that I could finally make my way to my beloved.  (Or at the very least, a kids view of what Paris must be like).  Then the weekend of my 21st birthday I found my dream of going to Paris finally fulfilled.  I honestly cried when I made my way out of the Metro for the first time to find the L’arc de Triumphe so graciously welcoming me to her city.  Studying in England allowed me to discover Europe, the joys of traveling and most importantly the incredible freedom I feel when traveling.  This is where it all began for me.  Thankfully for years following I often found myself vacationing in France.  From dating a head Chocolatier and touring France with he and his family to moving there on my own in my late 30’s- just two years ago, Ahem….

The other night I decided I needed my “fix.”  Time to get home, I felt.  So, just like that- trip purchased and excitement in my heart.  I’m going home!!  It’s not about going to see the “typical Parisian hotspots” it’s about just being.  There.  To walk those streets fills me beyond belief.  There are no words to explain the feeling I get in that beautiful place.  Much of the time I’ve spent in Paris have been just me, myself and I.  Perhaps that’s part of the reason I love it so much.  For I love to get up, grab a noisette and a baguette and hit the streets.  From its diverse landscape of cultures and people, to the most divine architecture and layout- Ohhhh Paris how I love thee.  I’m anxiously awaiting the morning smell of the boulangerie baking some of the most succulent treats to be found around the globe.  Walking through pristine gardens that offer hours of relaxing moments to yourself or to cherish the laughter of children and families playing by your side.  Not to mention Paris at night- truly magical.  Something about the soft lighting, tree lined streets accented by classic Haussmann buildings.  You know you’re experiencing some of the best of history under the soft light of this spectacular city…and often under the shining beam coming from the Eiffel Tower.  C’est magnifique!

Travel

Cuban coffee and Havana Nights…and Everything in between

Gallery

Perhaps it began when I would frequent Miami a few times a year in my 20’s.  Late nights with Media noches and morning hangover cures with Cuban coffees in the hot SoBe sun.  However it came about, I have longed to experience Cuba.  I was intrigued by the people.  By the endurance and strength of the country that was just next door.

Finally!  The gates have opened.  The time has arrived for exploring Havana.  So off I went, with one of my life long friends from school.  Apparently this was part of our continued education in embarking on this journey to Cuba together.  For we learned that there’s much more to the country than what we had even bargained for.  So much so that it can only truly be experienced by experiencing it for yourself.  Nonetheless, I do have suggestions to get you started on your very own journey:

Having only studied French, oddly enough, I always had a deep connection to Latin cultures and countries and was thrilled for the opportunity to engage with and start to learn more about my neighbors also while working my best Spanglish.  Though fortunately, most speak English, so Spanish is not required, though serves more as a courtesy.

El Malacon– We enjoyed the sights of the Malacon in a classic convertible, salsa music blasting, wind blowing in our hair.  Though if you’re feeling like a promenade on this famous sidewalk, sunset would be highly suggested.

El Floridita- The spot for Daquiri’s.  Made famous by none other than the Daiquiri king himself, Ernest Hemingway.  Located just off Havana’s Parque Central.  Try and score a table or bar spot for the nightlife.  Live music and energy for days, this place will have you feeling like a local.  (even though tourist are all that you see- all around)

Almacenes de Deposito San Jose- Looking for something unique with local flavor and culture, then shop here for some of the best in arts and crafts within Havana.

Cigar Factory- (I mean did you not expect to see this included?)

Museum of Rum-  Avenida del Puerto 262, esq. Sol, Habana Vieja Ciudad de La Habana.
Need I say more?
El Museo del Ron Havana Club

Finca Vigia-  Finca Vigía Km. 12 ½, La Habana, Cuba
The Cuban home of Ernest Hemmingway.  Although we didn’t include this on our journey, if you’re a devotee to Hemmingway, then this is not to be missed.  As it’s just 15 miles outside of Havana proper.  Hop in a classic car and make your journey east to find his former casa.  It’s said his home offers spectacular views of Havana!

Hotel Nacional-Calle 21 y O, Vedado, Plaza, La Habana 10400, Cuba
Located in the heart of Verdado for the last 80 years, this hotel has endless history and has welcomed celebrities and visitors from all over the globe. Hotel Nacional is a symbol of great pride for the city and serves as a central location for indulging in some local Rum, along with live entertainment most nights.

O’Reilly- #304 | Habana & Aguiar, Havana, Cuba
+53 5 2644725
Nothing like a quick run in for lunch with Jillian Michaels.  Well, not actually dining with her, though we shared a few moments of connecting over Cuba in this quaint little restaurant.  This place is thee place.  A true hot spot- great energy, ceviche and cocktails!

Paladar– at time of writing this (2018), is the only privately owned restaurant, as all others are owned by the government.

 

Life, Travel

a Gringa in Havana

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My love for Latin culture runs deep.  The irony is I have no idea why.  I grew up with German roots in Lancaster, Pennsylvania and yet a salsa song comes on and you’d think I’m busy celebrating my very own Quincenara.  I’ve been fortunate enough to enjoy many incredible adventures to Latin countries- from Colombia to Costa Rica and now to Cuba.  I’ve wanted to go to Cuba for so many years I’ve lost count.  When Obama opened up travel, I was thrilled for the chance to finally learn more about this country, it’s people, arts and music and get the Real Real on this country.

Needless to say, I was a bit…..hmmm, how shall we say, oddly surprised?

I know my expectations might be slightly off- The spirits of Buena Vista Social Club Streets playing throughout the streets, while couples dance Salsa with reckless abandon.  Instead, it was more like streets ripped apart, riddled with trash, clearly uncared for, for decades.  This country has endured a lifetime of entrapment, not only NOT moving forward….not staying as-is either, as nature still manages to take its course in dilapidating and further breaking down not only the land, but also the former captivating architecture that Havana is so known for.  This stunning beautiful buildings crumbling all around.  And not just in the outer areas- the inner cities that welcome tourists.  It is not hidden, as may be the case in other cities. People residing in buildings that have no windows, floors consisting solely of rubble.  Trees growing out from where the foundation used to be.

Inspired and stunning architecture still remains within the soul of this city.  Even if most of the buildings appear to be blown out- as if a war had taken its toll.  Though in reality, most of these buildings being owned by the government and unfortunately not upkept by its residents has turned this great potential into a sad reality.

As you walk the streets you can feel the pain this city has endured.  From the many years of revolution and take over from other countries.  This is not a city to be taken lightly.  For it’s people have incredible heart and determination.  Not to mention loyalty.  To my surprise everywhere I turned was either the image of Che or a memorial of sorts for their recently lost Fidel.  I’ve never been to a communist country before this excursion and I was apparently a bit surprised to learn, experience and bear witness to life within.  And yet with all of this said, this place is still hopeful.  The locals offer smiles beyond the struggle.  With the spirit and soul to believe that one day Cuba can truly be Cuba Libre.

Life, Travel

Created in Cuba. 99% Diseno Cubano

When traveling I often search high and low to find something that truly speaks to not only the country but also the culture of its people.  I didn’t have any great expectations when going to Cuba, except for the typical Cuban souvenirs of cigars and rum.  To which I returned with neither of them.  Throughout my travels, I often have a hard time trying to find the right purchases that truly speak to the country.  Visiting Italy and France were surprisingly disappointing when hoping to find unique couture that spoke to their incredibly rich history of fashion.  And it seems across the world we have become so global that these same brands make their appearance around the world.  From the H&M’s to the Zara’s of the world.  Believe me, I mean no disrespect as I’m happy to support them too. However, when I travel I want something authentic and hopefully something that ultimately benefits its people who reside there.  And in this case, I FINALLY was successful.  Although we truly happened to stumble upon this place, it was a total diamond in the rough.  For many of the streets throughout Havana can be a bit questionable in places.  This is what gives this places its rich flavor and diversity though finding this little place, Clandestina was certainly a welcomed and celebrated discovery.

Clandestina is a boutique that offers upcycled EVERYTHING.  From t-shirts, to cosmetic bags and totes- their entire inventory had lived a previous life as something else before.  Since I am such a bag lady I decided a Cuba cosmetic bag was an essential take away from this adorable store.  I also found the “need” to purchase a neon green handkerchief donned with T-Rex all over it.  (Imagine, the heat in Havana is so intense, I justified this purchase by thinking I’d use this to keep myself dry in the humidity of the city)  Haha.  Whatever helped justify something I didn’t truly need.  Though I felt the need to support this business.  Not only was it a way to repurpose but also a new hope for Havana- cleaning up what otherwise would end up in the trash and instead offered the elderly of Cuba a chance to make money.  So, apparently my purchase was justified from the moment I walked in the door.  Besides, we were on a People to People trip- no better way to contribute than in supporting and promoting their efforts and forward thinking.

It was apparent through this trip that many are trying to move Cuba forward, past all the struggle and open to creating new opportunities for all.  We rented an AirBnB and on the last day of our stay, the woman who came to clean our place told us about the reality of making money in Cuba.  As she sat at the table folding white paper and glueing them together to make envelopes for Tourist to purchase items from the locals- like myself.  I noticed I already had many of these same bags in my possession from shopping the local markets, that she had made for the tourists.  The sad part about it all was that she had to make 100 of these envelopes to make $1.00.  Talk about perspective.  This is where you truly dive into the culture and it’s people to see how people are living across the world.  She was such a hard worker with the most incredible spirit.  Instantly my friend and I realized here was another chance to give back to the people of Cuba.  We left her Nike’s, Michael Kors sandals, a boat load of toiletries and so on.  It was the least we could do to support this woman who was striving to make a difference in her life however she could.  She showed us the incredible spirit and dedication to keep moving forward to create the Cuba that this society has yearned for, for lifetimes.  Cuba Libre!!

For your chance to support their efforts-
http://clandestinacuba.com

Culture, Travel

An unrealistic Romance with a place called Cuba.

Gallery 2 Comments

My love for Latin culture runs deep.  The irony is I have no idea why.  I grew up with German roots in Lancaster, Pennsylvania and yet a salsa song comes on and you’d think I’m busy celebrating my very own Quincenara.  I’ve been fortunate enough to enjoy many incredible adventures to Latin countries- from Colombia to Costa Rica and now to Cuba.  I’ve wanted to go to Cuba for so many years I’ve lost count.  When Obama opened up travel, I was thrilled for the chance to finally learn more about this country, it’s people, arts and music and get the Real Real on this country.

Needless to say, I was a bit…..hmmm, how shall we say, oddly surprised?

I know my expectations might be slightly off- The spirits of Buena Vista Social Club Streets playing throughout the streets, while couples dance Salsa with reckless abandon.  Instead, it was more like streets ripped up. Riddled with trash. Clearly uncared for, for decades.  This country has endured a lifetime of entrapment, not only NOT moving forward….not staying as is either, as nature still manages to take its course in dilapidating and breaking down not only the land but also the buildings.  This stunning beautiful architecture crumbling and dilapidated. People residing in buildings that have no windows, floors of rubble.  Perhaps even a tree growing out from where the foundation used to be.

Inspired and stunning architecture still remains within the soul of this city.  Even if most of the buildings appear to be dilapidated, blown out- as if a war had taken its toll.  Though in reality, most of these buildings being owned by the government and unfortunately not upkept by its residents has turned this great potential into a sad reality.

As you walk the streets you can feel the pain this city has endured.  From the many years of revolution and take over from other countries.  This is not a city to be taken lightly.  For it’s people have incredible heart and determination.  Not to mention loyalty.  To my surprise, everywhere I turned was either the image of Che or a memorial of sorts for their recently lost Fidel.  I’ve never been to a communist country before this excursion and I was apparently a bit surprised to discover, learn, experience and bear witness to the life within.  And yet with all of this said, this place is still incredibly hopeful.  Mangrove trees line the streets.  A colorful life exists around them.  And the people, who offer beautiful smiles, despite the struggle are filled with the spirit and soul to believe that one day Cuba can truly be CUBA LIBRE!

 
Life

It’s the little things…

It would appear as though I’ve been on a bit of a hiatus.  Sometimes LIFE just happens and you can get all caught up in it.  Although I’ve been writing, I’ve been keeping most of my writing to myself.  For it’s been a great lesson to understand the vulnerability and openness that comes with “sharing” through a blog.  (Something I’m still learning to gage my comfort level)  I’m thankful I’ve been busy experiencing life, though I love nothing more than to take a moment to write and reflect on the “little things in Life” worth noting.  Like today.  I was touring a client at Westfield Century City and arrived early so I walked the center to check in with some of the retailers.  As a man who, at first glance might appear to be not necessarily homeless, though not someone you’d more than likely to stop and chat with.  Nonetheless, I offered him a smile and he quickly responded:  And how are you today my sister?  “I am well, my friend”  I responded.  That was it.  You would have thought two friends were reunited at that very instant.  For he then went onto tell me how he appreciated my smile and for it he had a gift.  He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small white rock.  He said that the gift was not from him, but from my grandparents.  (Believe me, I’m sure most might think…Time to go.  Walk away.  RUN!)  Though to me, this was a real gift indeed.  As I have grown up without grandparents as unfortunately they all passed away either before I was born or at a very young age.  And yet despite this disconnect to them, I feel so connected to my root of my family through them.  I relate so much to my mother’s mom who our family has forever joked that I am actually her reincarnated.  How’s that for a deep thought?!  So, needless to say, receiving a random white rock from a random encounter was pretty magical.  He then went onto say that just like the rock is strong and solid, that I am to remember that I, too am strong and that even when others try to break me to keep in mind my strength.  He said this was the lesson and gift from my grandparents.  I hugged this man and thanked him for such a kind gift. As he walked away, he told me that it is my smile that makes a difference in the world and offers a gift to others.  Words can’t describe the love in my heart as I walked along my path after a beautiful and random encounter with a complete stranger.  These small gifts are truly life’s most beautiful treasures.

Life

Full Circle on a Saturday morning

I wake up early on this fine Saturday morning to go and enjoy a relaxing morning and catch up on writing.  For me, writing is a beautiful way to recap life’s experiences and moments that, although may seem small at the moment, are truly what makes life worth living.

I arrive at Coffee Bean and Tea leaf, my usual spot for a latte and letting go in expressing my thoughts.  Though todays visit also came with an added bonus: inspiration.  Upon ordering, I see two men working on getting connected to wifi.  One of these men is a homeless local that tends to hang around, very peaceful and in his element, often just taking time to relax inside.  The other gentleman is simply lending a hand in helping him out.  It always warms my heart to see when there is goodness to speak of, that people take the time to help one another, even if just to get on wifi.

Moments later as I’m awaiting my delightful vanilla latte, I notice a woman going up to the same homeless man.  She says:  “You’re the one who helped push my car yesterday, aren’t you?”  With great appreciation and love in her heart, she handed him a gift card and thanked him for his assistance.  You could tell she was beyond appreciative and yet a bit intimidated to show her thanks to this “Stranger.”  And the beautiful thing about it was that he was humbled in his space, as if helping her was not even a thought.  That it was his duty to help her.  A person in need and that’s what he did…Second nature, nothing to be thanked for.  Though it is truly in these moments that I am thankful to bear witness to the beauty and simplicity in these gentle gestures of humanKIND.  From witnessing this man go from being helped to helping another, all within moments.  This is truly what makes life so sweet.  And a sweet vanilla latte to further savor the moment….ahh, it’s going to be a good day.  Happy Saturday to you.  May you experience a moment of humanKIND today.  (and everyday for that matter!)