Tag Archives: spiritual

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.

 
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.

Culture, Life, Travel

Inspired trip translates into an Inspired life

Gallery

Growing up on the east coast has always given me a great sense of pride in being a part of what the east coast means to me.  I think of the east coast as fast paced, hard working, authenticity.  And this is coming from a gal who was born and raised on the east coast and yet has spent the majority of my adult life on the west coast.  Though the pride I have in being a true east coaster is one that I will cherish my whole life.

For over the last 10 years, I’ve worked in the retail world, or rather REIT’s, who develop own and manage most of the biggest shopping centers in the United States.  After representing Fashion Valley for over half a decade, I was ready for a new challenge to further utilize and explore my talents.  I had put it out in the universe that I was ready for something new.  At that same time, I took a journey with my cousin to Peru.  This country has some of the most magical and spiritual places this world has to offer.  During this exploration, we ventured to Aguas Caliente to visit Machu Picchu one of the 7 wonders of the world- that, by the way, is absolutely not to be missed! (If you’ve ever even thought about doing so-GO!!!!!  You will not regret it and your life will forever be touched by this incredible place. )  I digress…

We started our journey in Lima where we were fortunate enough to spend time with our friend Hugo and his family who quickly familiarized us with the country, the culture and the must do’s on the trip.  They told us that while in Machu Picchu to be sure to say a special prayer and think of the things we hoped for, for our lives as the “mama pacha energy” that is known to be at this historic, inspiring site can be life changing.  I recall it ever so clearly, sitting on top of this truly magical land and feeling love and energy running through me as I took a moment to ‘go in’, take a moment of reflection and meditation and honor this peaceful place.  (Albeit, with a couple alpaca’s and llama’s hanging out beside me, lurking about)

I had just come out of a devastating divorce and was ready for the next chapter to unveil itself that would allow for great growth and inspiration for my career, as I wanted to focus my previous challenges into something more worthy.  Well, let’s just say Hugo was right.  Less than a month later, I was recruited to work with my biggest competitor in the shopping center business.  And despite the feeling of having to don a Scarlet letter in moving onto “the other side” I dove into this new opportunity, feeling somehow that the Incan’s had a hand in this next step.  You see, at this time, the World Trade center was a project being developed by my new company, Westfield. And being an east coaster, I wanted to be a part of it.  The entire world felt the affects of 9/11.   Westfield was personally affected by that tragic day, losing some of their very own from their Westfield family.  I was beyond inspired by the opportunity to be part of Westfield’s passion behind this project- a chance for honoring, remembering and persevering despite the pain.

Fast forward to 1 month ago, when I had the honor of being a part of this center’s grand opening.  Working with my team, collaborating on these efforts was one of the most rewarding projects I’ve been a part of thus far.  Not only was I inspired to see the hours and dedication that was poured into all aspects of this center, I was fueled by the fact that the entire grand opening was a Family Day, created and dedicated to honor those touched by the tragedies that happened there.  The grand opening was a beautiful moment that completely touched and overwhelmed my heart.  In fact, at times it was hard to hold in all the emotion I felt simply being there, surrounded by thousands of people who were brought together to be honored.  Spending time with those so closely affected by 9/11 and feeling all the love in this sacred spot was truly remarkable.  I love my east coasters.  Though let’s be honest… we move fast, we talk fast, we want typically people to move out of our way.  And anyone who’s even visited New York knows that it can be a bit frantic and dare I say, an aggressive city at times.  And yet, on this day, there was such a sense of peace.  Of respect.  Of honor. Of Love, that overwhelmed my heart and made me thankful that a little vacation to a little place called Peru, opened up a new chapter in my life where I had the chance to contribute to a project of compassion, of heart, of meaning.  And on this day, the 15th year anniversary of 9/11 I can’t help but think of all those families who I spent moments with- being inspired by their strength, love and togetherness.  I will never forget.