*Weekend Pass* to Keeping Travel in Your Heart and Home in Chicago with Claire of Centered by Design

It is a sweet world to be in when you design a life that weaves your loves together. Especially if it's also something you're happy to call work. She marries her background in yoga (spiritual) with design (material) to create personal sanctuaries for her interior design clients. So who is this calm inducing, creative woman? It's the uber talented Claire, of @centered_by_design! This weekend, she shows us how she stays curious and lives like she's traveling in her home town of Chicago! 

Meet your design loving neighbor, Claire!

 • • •

Hello! I’m excited to share a visual journey that illustrates how I keep travel in my heart and home. 

Garfield Park Conservatory is my favorite green oasis when I need a break from the concrete jungle.

Farmer’s markets are one of the best ways to shop local and feel like you're traveling at the same time!

Visiting farms bring delicious items right to your doorstep. Use them to create a meal that reminds you of a favorite culture or trip! I frequent the Logan Square and Green City Market regularly. 

Tropical Caribbean island or Lake Michigan? Michigan?Sometimes it’s all about your perspective. 

I love to take day trips and mini staycations in downtown Chicago. It feels miles away from my neighborhood to be down at the lakefront, even though in reality it’s only 4 miles away!

Part of my mission as an interior designer is to bring my client’s spirit into their home.

This often happens through prominently displaying travel mementos, or using their personal travel photography as artwork. This collection of prints in my office reminds me adventures abroad in New Zealand.

Head over to learn more of my design tips: 
--> IDEA166: Create a Personal Sanctuary that Keeps the Travel Memories Alive

Thanks for having me LLYT! ~ Claire of CenteredByDesign.com

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IDEA167: Let a Horse Teach You to Be a Better Leader

Did you know horses can read our minds? Or better said, they can sense how we feel even when we ourselves are unaware of some deep internal turmoil that might be causing havoc in our life or our work without us knowing the reason for it. 

Recently I had a chance to see first hand how these fascinating animals can sense our emotions and make us more aware.  My friend Jane of knowboundaries, an Equine Assisted Coach, invited me to see one of her equine assisted coaching sessions. It is a form of coaching where you work on getting to the next level of personal and professional success by interacting with horses.

So one windy day I caught a bus from the bustling Amsterdam Central Station to a picturesque Dutch village. It was only a 15 minute ride to Broek in Waterland. Stepping off the bus in a green little village with water canals, wooden bridges and colorful houses surrounded by fields...felt like a getaway. 

At the stables De Drie Merrien, I met with Jane and Ulo, her beautiful horse. Her coaching client was there as well, whose objective was to breakthrough to be a better leader in her business. 

It's amazing to think that we might have involuntary reactions in certain situations. We might be snapping at our family members over some annoyance. We may be affecting our team negatively with our worries without even realizing it. If we were aware that our automatic emotions were affecting and even hurting others we would probably change the way we react. But how can horses help?

Of all animals, horses are extremely sensitive and mirror our own emotions. This is because they are prey animals and their nervous system is highly in tune with what's happening around them. They can sense emotions through the smell that we emit and the tiny vibrations that are caused by the beating of our hearts.

Did you know that when we're happy and calm we smell differently then when we're stressed, angry or anxious?

The coaching session did not involve galloping at high speeds. Under Jane's guidance, her client walked with Ulo. Jane asked questions about her client's work and as she responded it became obvious where the anxieties laid. Ulo would move her head or try to walk away in the opposite direction. She immediately sensed any discomfort coming from her human coachee. 

It's not a new concept that a horse is a great companion and helper. People used to be around horses a lot, working in fields with them, transporting things or traveling on their backs weather in the country or in the cities. Then gradually over the last century, we have been replacing nature and all living things with objects that perform on demand for us. We think of it as gaining effeciency and productivity but in the end we are slowly loosing the enchantment with anything living. Even ourselves. 

More and more we replace real face time with phone and social media "facetime" as we apply the same "on demand" approach to people. Why are we morphing into these strange beings?  The Biophilia Hypothesis suggests that losing our connection with nature is what's causing us to stop feeling a part of the natural circle, diminishing our sense of responsible for doing our part in protecting fellow living things. And so we are letting our whole planet waste away. Why do we care anyway, we'll just build ourselves a NEW hi-tech planet right!? Ops...

So how can we connect with nature? 
What can we do daily to be more in tune with what's happening around us?

We have to do it the slow "inefficient" way, and simply get out into the natural world! Spend more time outdoors observing animals. Go on a horse ride. And why not bring a friend along and TALK to them in real life. When was the last time you stood close to a horse. They're big and tall...and their eyes are knowing. Seems like they want to tell us a secret...

Don't worry all is not lost. Nature is patiently waiting for us to find our way back. Look at your week and schedule in at least a few hours to connect with it. If you are near Amsterdam, grab a few friends and head over to the countryside for some nature, horses and local delicacies. 

Thank you Jane and Ulo for letting us get to know these amazing animals better and re-igniting our natural drive to get closer to nature! 

NATURE BREAK IN BROEK IN WATERLAND

Arrive: (15 minute bus ride from Amsterdam Central Station) Broek in Waterland 
Riding Manege: De Drie Merrien 
Coaching Session with Horses: Know Boundaries with Jane
Rent a boat or kayak: Fluisterboot Varen 
Lunch: De Witte Swaen for Dutch Pancakes

PHOTO CREDITS: ALLA FELDMAN

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*Weekend Pass* to Creating Your Own Sanctuary in Spring Green, WI with Wilson Creek Pottery

This weekend, @wilsoncreekpottery takes us on a ride through the midwestern countryside! ️They left the Windy City and set off for greener pastures to make and create pieces that would deliver the morning's first sips of tea or complement the laughter and liveliness of friends sharing a home cooked meal. 

Meet your global neighbors, Shannon and Ash! 

• • •

This is summer lunch around here. Get outside, grab from the garden and eat something good for ya.

But most of all, take a break! Enjoy the food, the view and each other. Global or local neighbors, all are welcome here. Our country sensei (a local who makes us laugh and fixes just about anything) dropped by right as we were fixing plates. Luckily, there's always room at our table. 

A little welcome package for our Airbnb guests. Since we can't always get away to travel, we bring the travelers to us.

We love to share this place with friends and family so we recently extended the invitation to the world!  

Mildred (our pup) and I have been getting up early lately to take on the trees for some #forestbathing before we get our days started.

Turns out it's the best way to start a day. This trail is about a mile from the house. We recently discovered it and finding more, like that forest coral, on every hike. 

Working, making, doing. That's what we are up to in between breaks.

Took a big leap purchasing this pottery business and jumping into the life we dreamed. We've got the hang of it (mostly) and love all it has brought us - working with our hands, being a part of a real and generous community, and exploring new corners of ourselves and the world. Thanks for coming along for the ride and here's to our paths crossing some day!  

~ Your country lovin neighbors, Shannon & Ash of Wilson Creek Pottery

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For more ways to connect with the people and world around you,
get everyday ideas @LiveLikeYoureTraveling

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IDEA166: Create a Personal Sanctuary that Keeps your Travel Memories Alive

I have a woman crush on Claire, of Centerd by Design! A woman who marries the principles of yoga with her love of interior design...AND a passion for travel?! Seriously, where did you come from? The interior design junkie and yoga instructor in me was immediately hooked. So how exactly does she apply yogic teachings with the aethestics of creating a modern home? Well, she starts a design company about finding personal sanctuary. We're excited to have Claire today to share how her travels shaped her path and continues to inspire her along the way.  

• • •

Claire: I’ve always yearned to travel. I think it might have started with my dad’s stories of climbing Mt. Everest to base camp, but a bit of wanderlust has always filled my soul. In college, I spent a summer in Cameroon, Africa. When I graduated college I enrolled in AmeriCorps and lived in San Francisco. Several years later I lived abroad in New Zealand for a year with my fiancé. These major life milestones shaped the way I view the world. 

We are all the same. We all have different struggles.
Be kind. Be as giving as your situation allows.
Everyone wants to create a home, a safe haven, 
a place to feel at peace...a sanctuary.

During these years, I became a yoga teacher and kept various creative day jobs in marketing. I had an “aha moment” during a long and labor-intensive renovation project at work. It was then that I realized, interior design is my calling! Fast-forward to present day, and I am happily completing my degree in interior design and I have opened a design and decorating business, Centered By Design. It took me a little awhile to assess my values and blend my love of design (often material) with my passion for yoga (often spiritual). I came to the following conclusion, which I guess you could call my design mantra! 

Taking the time to re-center ourselves and find a personal sanctuary is more important than ever in today’s fragmented and fast-paced world.

I believe that sanctuary is much closer to home than you think. My approach to working with clients blends my intuitive nature as a yoga instructor with my passion for interior design. Daily, I see how the connection between the body, mind, and our physical environment can have powerful influences on our personal well-being.
 

• • •
 

So how does one create a personal sanctuary? 

The best part is that no one’s ideal space looks the same! Just like no one’s favorite yoga pose is the same. We all feel and experience life differently. I find that incorporating my travel memories, family heirlooms, nature and color creates what feels like sanctuary to me. I’d love to share some of my tips for bringing your travels, your personality and your special mementos into your home! It’s all about creating what feels good to you! What do you want to look at and be reminded of on a daily basis? 

1 - Decorate with Textiles

• Textiles are light and easy to pack. Every country or culture has designs, colors and patterns unique to their heritage. 

• Textiles go just about anywhere! Pick-up a unique tablecloth that reminds you of your favorite restaurant in (for example) Paris. Create an eating nook in your space that feels like that memorable al fresco spot where you drank wine for hours and smiled the night way!

• Textiles are the perfect art piece, whether draped over the bed, hung on wall, framed behind glass, or even placed on the floor – don’t under estimate the power of a beautiful textile as art. You can even frame a coffee bag and make it look amazing!

• • •

2 - Use your own Travel Photography

• Affordable and personal! 

• Frame various photos (landscapes work well for color – think ocean, sky, farm land, flowers) in different size frames and combine them with other mementos for the ultimate shelf styling.

• For visual impact, use a consistent color palette. In this example, I used my client’s photography and chose to print the images in black and white. Placed in matching style frames the look is professional and clean.

• • •

3 - Thrift your Heart Out

I’m a sucker for a good DIY project. Traveling out of Chicago is always awesome because I’m on the look out for vintage finds. Not only will these items tell a story (since you’re on an adventure when you find them!) but with a little TLC they can become a true mark of pride and creative prowess.

• Re-purpose an old window frame as an art piece; this one is backed with colorful paper and some decoupage. 

• Look for classic designs, like this George Nelson inspired clock. I took they dingy old brass thing, and spray painted it black for a modern look.

• Even a cool looking shirt or hat can become décor when styled in an interesting way. I keep my favorite printed shirt and lucky hat hanging in my room. If you get bored of the same look, it’s easy to change!

I hope next time you travel, whether near or far; you will keep your eyes peeled for souvenirs that are personal, inspiring and functional. You may just find the perfect item to decorate your home!

~ Your design happy neighbor, Claire of Centered By Design

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY CLAIRE HURWITZ STASZAK

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*Weekend Pass* to Seeing with Fresh Eyes in NYC's Chinatown with Amy Ventures

Calling all color lovers! Through her #colorventures lens, @amyventures shows us a side of Chinatown you might not expect! As a child, Chinatown lost its luster from all the routine trips to grandma's house...now, trips are still routine, yet by constantly challenging herself to see it with fresh eyes, she now has a completely different appreciation for it.  

Meet your color hunting neighbor, Amy Chen! 

• • •

Veggie, fruit, and seafood markets / stands line every single street.

I am always in awe of the vibrant hot pink color of the dragonfruit that can often be found amongst the exotic selection of produce! 

The Chinatown Ice Cream Factory has been in business for 30+ years and is located on Bayard Street right in the heart of Chinatown.

Pictured flavors: taro and egg custard!  

FDNY engine 9 ladder 6 fights dragons, not fires. 

I love that Chinatown's fire department embraces the personality of this traditional Chinese symbol of power, strength, and good luck. 

Lastly, I love that Chinatown coincides with the lower east side.

I find myself constantly inspired by the city's street art, and this koi mural by Brazilian street artist Binho Ribeiro, caught my eye at the intersection of Eldridge Street and Canal! Thanks for tuning in to my takeover! It was so much fun to share my colorful view of Chinatown with you all.

~ For more of my #colorventures, find me over at AmyChenDesign.com

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For more ways to connect with the people and world around you,
get everyday ideas @LiveLikeYoureTraveling

*Weekend Pass* to Saying YES in Anguilla with Mu-Hsien of Live Like You're Traveling

Hello neighbors! @mu_hsien, one of the founders here at LLYT...and for our very first *Weekend Pass* ~ I’ll be sharing more on the camaraderie and serendipity experienced while exploring with a team of travel writers to #CaptureAnguilla.

Let's meet some new neighbors and let’s keep the magic going! 

• • •

More beautiful than this view at Shoal Bay, was the trail of serendipitous moments that led our paths to each other.

Initially, some of the ladies were drawn to each other through collaborations on each other’s blogs. Other relationships were made through chance encounters during travels. As we continued to support each other digitally, a natural community formed. But I was curious, how would all of these virtual connections relate in person?

Beginning from the first round of hugs, it was like experiencing a photo come to life. I felt our hearts open as we connected to each other's dreams, quickly realizing that we were already bonded by our intent to inspire people to find *magic* in their lives. Needless to say, we were all excited to see where the trip would take us.

Photo Credit: MUHSIEN INC - Shoal Bay, Anguilla 

Travel has this funny way of building confidence. Often when you're prompted with unexpected opportunities... do you say yes?

One of our own, Rachel Rudwall, bravely accepted the challenge to take part in Anguilla’s Carnival Parade. By joining a troupe of locals, she got a chance to show off her moves while the rest of the group cheered her on! It was a great reminder, that intentionally putting yourself in situations where you need to think on your feet or try on new traditions is precisely one of the ways to #livelikeyouretraveling, a mindset that I can bring back home to energize my everyday life.

Photo credit: Ayşegül

I witnessed people shine while in their element, supported in doing what they are compelled to do. It's what happens when you find your tribe.

Kristen and Lacy just the kind of people who understand if you just need that extra second to take that shot... or to just step in as extra hands to help light your food while you share a meal by candle light. And when we weren’t in creative mode, we soaked in what Anguilla has to offer. Sunset sailing on Tradition Sailing's vintage wooden ship. Bursts of bioluminescence from below while low hanging constellations lit up the sky. Images that I hope will be forever embedded in my memory. 

Photo Credit: CreatriceMondial  

While the island is known for its laid back limin' culture, there are opportunities to challenge those looking for a more physical adventure

Anivillas set us on a trail to bike through surprisingly arid landscapes that led us to the limestone shore at Captain Bay. Succesfully navigating through sandy patches and seeing the island from a unique vantage point made our final reward to the hideaway spot that much sweeter.

Ohhhh...if we could just bottle this feeling!

It was through travel that my partner, Alla and I discovered what it's like to feel so open, curious and ALIVE...moments like this one, ending our Anguilla trip with these majestic creatures in the pristine waters of Cove Bay. 

Photo Credit: Dining Traveler

Your Co-chief Adventurer, Mu-Hsien of @LiveLikeYoureTraveling

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For more ways to connect with the people and world around you,
get everyday ideas @LiveLikeYoureTraveling

KM Zero Tours : Slow Travel for a Taste of the Sweet Life in Tuscany

This special edition of "Take Us To Lunch" is actually an invitation to a virtual dinner! Our new friends Arianna, Olivia and Alessio of Km Zero Tours take us to an authentic polentata al fresco at a Tuscan casa.  

• • •

Alla: What is Polentata? Arianna tells us all about this traditional Italian peasant meal...

Arianna: Polentata is an old recipe from the Abruzzo region, the birthplace of Alessio. This recipe was born as a traditional dish for poor people who could not afford to buy many ingredients or even enough plates for the entire family. It is made with corn flour, a type of flour that typically cost less than wheat flour. People cooked polenta in a large, deep pot, stirring constantly for a long time. When polenta was ready, they poured it directly onto the table, eating it right away, all together, not using any dishes!

The traditional sauce for polenta was tomato sauce enriched with a single sausage (given the high cost) which was used to give flavor to the entire sauce and was eventually designated to head of the house. We have decided to re-propose this ancient dish for our guests, enriching it with more sauce and sausages! ;-)

The best thing about this experience is that we eat together at the same table, sharing values and ideas and becoming friends.  

How did this idea of sharing Italy with visitors come about and what does Km Zero mean?

The expression “Km Zero” (literally “no distance”) products, refers to a conscious choice to buy quality products and to consume them as close as possible to their area of production, ensuring freshness, seasonality and biodiversity, as well as strengthening connection with the land.

Arianna: Inspired by this concept we developed our project “Km Zero Tours,“ wanting to give people authentic tasting experiences, letting them re-discover ancient traditions and refine their palettes by understanding the journey of a product from farm-to-table.

Alla: When your guests return home, what would you like them to bring back to their countries from this experience?

Arianna: The best souvenir our guests can bring home is to become fully aware of how a product originates, understanding its history, tradition and the hard work and passion of the producers. We'd love for them to rediscover the pleasure of sharing experiences and values with others, which encourage them to interact with local people, actively engaging with them.

Alla: How did you and your partners meet? How did you decide to start this business together?

Arianna: Olivia and I are sisters, so we didn't actually "meet," but Alessio (my boyfriend) and I met 9 years ago in Bologna and immediately felt we had in common an endless love for our land and for its products. Precisely this love and genuine passion has led us to get to know a lot of different local producers and to taste their products. It opened our eyes. In most cases we felt that there was no real information about what we eat, and most of all there was no way to witness the passion, experience and knowledge of producers.

We created Km Zero experiences to help people to get a taste of Tuscany from a local perspective, through authentic products and meeting genuine and passionate local producers. 

Alla: Is there a specific moment you can share when you felt especially inspired to be on this journey of sharing Italy with the world?

Arianna: We love to tell the story of a time we went shopping at a local market to buy vegetables, cheeses and other products. It was our turn at the stand of fresh vegetables and we asked the lady if she could give us some fava beans (fave toscane). It was late in the afternoon, and she told us that unfortunately the fava beans were already gone. In any other country, perhaps the conversation might have ended at that point, but in Italy, the market is not only a place to buy products, but a place where you can exchange experiences and stories...and you always finish your day with some nice surprises!

In Italy, those who are not in a hurry, ready to stop just to have a chat and listen to people...are the ones who gain the most!

The lady invited us to wait until the end of her working day, to go with her to her house, where she would give us fava beans directly from her garden. We were not in hurry, so we decided to wait. Not only did we get fresh and delicious fava beans, but we saw her beautiful country house, met her family, and even stayed there for dinner! We returned home with new vegetables and  friends, having tasted incredible food while sharing inspiring stories. 

Alla: What is your greatest challenge for you in your business?

Arianna: The most difficult thing being able to transmit a real experience through virtual channels such as the web. Despite this difficulty, we are still managing a method that allows us to overcome this obstacle and to be able to express our philosophy, passion and project. 

We "Live Like We're Traveling" every single day as we discover and encourage our guests to discover a different and charming world...from the artistry of olive oil making to woodworking.

Every experience represents an interesting journey and collection of stories, experiences, parfumes and flavors, that deserve to be savored. The best way to live the "dolce vita" is to follow the rhythms of this beautiful and charming country, enjoying its atmosphere and observing the people. To comprehend their gestures, listen to their stories and take part in the slow and creative lifestyle.

• • •

Thank you Arianna, Olivia and Alessio! For sharing your work with us today and for sharing Italy with the world in a way that brings us closer to it's people and their way of living. Your advice for living la dolce vita is a great inspiration for us to get to know our own local producers wherever we happen to live. Thank you for reminding us that our taste buds are made happier not only by healthy food but by truly connecting over a meal and taking the time to talk with each other and listen to each others stories. 

{ Experience the Sweet Italian Life }

With Km Zero Tours you can really touch Italian culture. Have you ever wondered what it's like to be a wine maker? You can now experience it first hand. What about making goat cheese yourself along side cheese artisan themselves...or prepairing a slow cooked meal from the freshest ingredients while learning Italian? 

{ Live The Sweet Life In Tuscany }

For a complete immersion in the Tuscan way of living, stay in a stone villa, Casa Montrogoli, on the hills overlooking vineyards and rows of Cyprus trees. Perfect for bringing your entire family along!        

ALL PHOTOS VIA KM ZERO TOURS

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For more ways to connect with the people and world around you,
get everyday ideas @LiveLikeYoureTraveling

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LLYT Nature Element : 4 Reasons to Infuse Your Life with It

What if there existed something that would make us healthier, happier, brighter, calmer at peace with the world and our place in it, and simply a better person to be around? Would we seek it out and immerse ourselves in this magical substance? What would our life be like if we could continually preside in this elevated sense of existence? 

It just so happens, that this 'substance' does exist and it is very much available to us. Can you guess what it is? If you say travel, good guess! But what specific part of traveling makes us feel so good and teaches us so much about ourselves and the world? Well, spending time outdoors no matter the weather especially in nature is a big part of it. And there is a very concrete explanation why being outside and spending time in NATURE makes us healthier, calmer, more creative, and better towards others and the world.

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“Look deep into nature and you will understand everything better.”

— Albert Einstein

1. Nature Boosts Our Health

The Japanese have been practicing the art of Shinrinyoku, or "forest bathing" for centuries, but only in the 1980s has it become a subject of studies that actually quantified what and how being in nature makes us healthier. Trees produce and give off allelochemical substances called phytoncides. These substances are trees' natural protectant from harmful insects, fungi and bacteria. When people are near trees and essentially bathing in phytoncides, the human immune system is also enhanced. The way phytoncides work for trees is by preventing the growth of an attacking organism and in humans phytoncides work by increasing human natural killer (NK) cell activity which studies have linked with disease prevention and fighting ability. It sounds like the invisible shroud of vitality and longevity... 

2. Nature Helps Us Relax

Another health benefit is that being in nature has a relaxing and rejuvenating effect. Nature literally helps our brain and body trigger what sience buffs call "Relaxation Response". The magic, or rather, the science behind this lies in understanding how our brain controls the way our body's biology reacts to our environment.

Botanical garden in Leiden

"Humans are said to have two types of attention: voluntary and involuntary. Voluntary attention is the type of attention used when a task requires deliberate and sustained attention. ~ By contrast, involuntary attention does not require an effort. Certain elements in our environments such as “strange things, moving things, wild animals, bright things, pretty things, etc.” can draw in this type of attention." 

"Building on the work of James, Kaplan and Kaplan describe attention fatigue as a process that occurs during the performance of cognitive tasks which require prolonged use of directed attention and active suppression of irrelevant information. When the capacity to maintain directed attention becomes overloaded, performance declines, and people are subjected to increased levels of mental fatigue, leaving them less capable of dealing with uncertainty and having a reduced ability to plan." - Mardie Townsend and Rona Weerasuriya, "Beyond Blue to Green: The benefits of contact with nature for mental health and well-being" 

3. Nature Promotes Creativity

Were you ever stuck trying to solve something and you just could not figure out how to do it. Well if you happened to walk away from your desk and go for a walk in the park, you might have noticed that an answer seemed to come to you 'out of nowhere'. In fact you've done something really important; you've given your brain a safe place to decompress, run processes that help to compartmentalize our experiences and learnings and give us space to create new connections between concepts and information... voila' creativity! Down time, doesn't only help our brain to 'untangle' but physically our relaxed state enables our body to circulate blood flow to more different regions of the brain. Thus it helps us tap and use more of our brain power. It literally makes us smarter and more capable of creatively thinking about our everyday tasks, our work and our lives. 

4. Nature Makes Us Better People

The study of biophilia and the theory of "Nature Connectedness" suggest that when we are close to the natural world we are better aware of us being a part of it not the center of it. To observe falling leaves in Autumn and to watch green buds appear in Spring teaches us about our own temporary existence. To marvel at the amazing mountain vistas, to experience the colors of a sunset and to hear the roar of a waterfall, allow us to experience being in awe. This feeling, studies show, is what makes us reflect on the interconnectedness of all living things and feel the solidarity with our fellow humans. Perhaps the smaller we feel the easier it is to realize how important it is to help each other and collectively take care of our planet. 

“Our investigation indicates that awe, although often fleeting and hard to describe, serves a vital social function. By diminishing the emphasis on the individual self, awe may encourage people to forgo strict self-interest to improve the welfare of others. ”

— Paul Piff, PhD, Assist. Prof. of Psychology & Social Behavior U of C, Irvine.

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Further Reading and References: 

• Report: The Economics of Biophilia Terrapin Bright Green. 
• A forest bathing trip increases human natural killer cell activity and expression of anti-cancer proteins in female subjects. Li et al. (2008). 
• Effect of phytoncide from trees on human natural killer cell function. Li et al. (2009). 
• Trends in research related to Shinrin-yoku (taking in the forest atmosphere or forest bathing) in Japan. Tsunetsugu et al. (2010). 
• Beyond Blue to Green: The benefits of contact with nature for mental health and well-being. Townsend et al. (2010). 
• Three steps to understanding restorative environments as health resources. In C. Ward-Thompson & P. Travlou (Eds.), Open space: People space (p. 165) New York: Taylor and Francis. Hartig, T. (2007). 
• Awe, The Small Self, and Prosocial Behavior. Piff et al. (2015).  

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Get more ideas to connect with nature @LiveLikeYoureTraveling

IDEA47: "Get Lost" in a New Neighborhood - Discovering 5 Gems in Andersonville

Happy accidents! They seem to happen quite naturally when we're in a open and exploratory mode and it was no different last week when I participated in a neighborhood tour of Andersonville, hosted by their chamber of commerce celebrating their 50th anniversary. I was particularly drawn to the event as it embodied one of our everyday adventure ideas to "Get Lost in a New Neighborhood." It even incorporated elements like talking to the owners and getting a backstory from our "shop like you're traveling" concept. Next time you're wondering what to do on the weekend, randomly drop yourself into a neighborhood you've heard things about, but still have yet to check out. Much like a trip to visit a little beach town, no major plan is really needed. Have a general direction and let the discoveries unfold...

1 - George's Ice Cream 5306 N. Clark
Delicious icecream/candy/cafe with specialty flavors like Zanzibar chocolae & horchata. 
PHOTOS: GEORGE'S ICE CREAM, MU-HSIEN HSIEH

It was a balmy 80 degree spring day, so I had my eye on this ice cream shop for my first stop. I decided to try out two exotics and two classics, and ended up with a flight of Zanzibar chocolate, horchata, mint chocolate chip and caramel chaos. While I was waiting, I overheard a girl ask, "hey is your back patio open?" Preferring an alfresco moment, I followed behind to discover an intimate hidden patio that opened up to a comic book shop. "How quaint in the middle of the city," I thought to myself. Needless to say I devoured the ice cream.

• • •

2 - Simon's Tavern 5210 N. Clark
A historic neighborhood bar from the prohibition days, known for their Swedish Glögg.
FLAG PHOTO: SETH ANDERSON, PHOTOS: MU-HSIEN HSIEH

After a bit of a walk in the heat I was thirsty, so a bar seemed like the appropriate place to check out next. I was greeted by the owner and as I grabbed a seat at the bar, I asked him what they were known for. He pointed to a slushie machine. (Even more perfect as I was needing something to cool off!) Turns out it contained a secret family summertime version of Glögg which is a traditional Swedish Christmas spiced-wine. To me it tasted like a frozen sangria, but stronger. I ended up staying at this bar for a while. A regular sat down next to me and between him and the owner, we ended up trading travel stories, grossed each other out on the most exotic things we've eaten and I learned that this unassuming bar has a lot of interesting history as to why there are nautical details in the interiors. You'll have to ask Scott Martin, the current owner about it! Or you can watch this video. Also, for any Anthony Bourdain fans, this bar was featured in his 48 Hours in Chicago Guide. { Note to self: line up speakeasy and Glögg tasting for our Chicago Meetup group to explore and try out. }  

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3 - Milk Handmade 5137 N. Clark
Uniquely affordable boutique featuring small-run, handmade goods from local designers.
PHOTOS: MU-HSIEN HSIEH

I almost missed this boutique, distracted by all the walking and talking with Alicia, a community manager for up and coming app, "Tastemade City" which helps you explore your city through video reviews. We actually met at Simon's Tavern and decided to tour together for the rest of the evening. When we found Milk, we were greeted by the owner, Hallie Borden and her graceful greyhound. I'm nuts for handmade jewelry and there was tons of it. I really loved that everything felt carefully curated and special, yet with reasonable prices. We had to scoot, as there were still 2 places we wanted to squeeze into the night. But, I'll be back for sure

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4 - Foursided 5061 N. Clark
A custom frame shop featuring cards, gifts, art and vintage goods.
PHOTOS: MU-HSIEN HSIEH

When you step into this shop, there's just so much to see. One could easily spend hours in it. Owner Todd Mack, is an accomplished artist himself and it makes sense when you're in the space. Everyone in the shop seems to exude a fun, funky personality. There's a mixture of stationary, one-of-kind gifts and art...AND custom framing. I think you could successfuly gift shop for anyone and any occasion and find something that would make them smile. 

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5 - The Guesthouse Hotel 4872 N. Clark
Guests can "Live Like a Local" in their 1-3 bdrm suites with gourmet kitchens & outdoor spaces. 
PHOTOS: THE GUESTHOUSE HOTEL

Our last stop was a bit of a luxurious reprieve and coming up to it, it's like they read my mind. On the glass I saw etchings that read "Stay like a local" and "Shop like a local." The concept of the Guesthouse Hotel is to provide visitors (or locals) a place to stay that feels like an exquisite home. Their public library and living room spaces can transform into a celebration area to entertain or meet in a place that feels like the home you wish you had instead of a more neutral hotel rental room vibe. It's centrally located, so guests would have access to easily roam the 4 surrounding neighborhoods (Andersonville, Uptown, Wrigleyville and Lincoln Square).

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*Bonus! - Cantina de la Granja 5025 N. Clark
Locally-sourced farm-to-table Mexican fare with a rooftop garden & preservation kitchen.
PHOTOS: MU-HSIEN HSIEH

A bonus gem-in-the-making for you: In the public space of the hotel, two chefs prepared al pastor tacos and rhubarb sangrias on the spot for us. I couldn't believe the vibrant, garlicky flavors that came from this taco! Get this on your restaurant bucket-list. It's the first Mexican farm-to-table concept I've heard of, and I'm sure they will have no problems filling their rooftop garden and sidewalk cafe.  

Thanks to the Andersonville Chamber of Commerce for hosting a unique way to explore the neighborhood as well as the lovely local community in helping us to discover it!  ~ Want to discover these gems for yourself? Go on your own "get lost" excursion or make it out to one of their festivals and upcoming events.  

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Join your neighbors in savoring the world @LiveLikeYoureTraveling

IDEA174: Be an Agent of Change with Jessica of The Brave Collection

Do you ever get the feeling that you just HAVE to go after something? Even if it might not be a popular route, and despite the challenges...you follow it whole heartedly? This "have-to" feeling is something New York based designer, Jessica Hendricks has embraced in her journey of creating The Brave Collection. Following a trip to Cambodia, she was fascinated by the paradoxical beauty set against the heartbreakingly violent past of this small Buddhist country. Determined to empower a unique community of women survivors, she was inspired to create Brave and to connect courageous women across the globe. 

So often when we travel, we see new perspectives of life and it stirs our inner fire. We are inspired to answer life's biggies like "why are we here?...how will I leave my imprint in this world?" Join us today as our global neighbor shares with us what it took for her to have the tenacity to forge her own path...

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Mu-Hsien: Tell us about your trip to cambodia. What drew you to the country?

Jessica: I was in school at NYC at Tisch School of the Arts. In these sacred four years of study and contemplation that were supposed to be widening my eyes and preparing me for the rest of my life, was I truly seeing all there was to see? I decided to travel east. I’d base myself in Thailand as an English teacher and travel until I found whatever it was I was searching for. I ended up in Cambodia.

Mu-Hsien: Cambodia proved to be a pivotal moment for you. Shocked to learn that Cambodian women today lack dignified job opportunities, or worse are falling victim to human trafficking...what gave you the courage to pursue change and awareness?  

Jessica: The visceral reaction that I felt at the sight of people dressed up as items for sale marked my first glimpse into the world of human trafficking. I was so deeply passionate about celebrating and supporting this very special community that I couldn’t focus on anything else until I really pursued this idea. I returned home to New York, I bought two books that would forever change the course of my life: The Road of Lost Innocence by Somaly Mam, a Cambodian survivor of slavery, and Half the Sky. More than four years of exceptional university level study, more than actually breathing the Cambodian air, reading about the journeys of survivors of sexual trafficking as told by Mam, Kristof and WuDunn sparked an unstoppable passion somewhere beneath my rib cage that has yet to wane.

I grew up in a very entrepreneurial family, so paving my own path was something I learned by example. 

Mu-Hsien: After returning home, what were the first 3 crutial steps you took to go from “passionate idea” towards Brave becoming reality?  

Jessica: Purchase a URL. Create a first bracelet prototype. Tell friends and family I respect that I am creating something new to hold myself accountable! ~ Three years after my trip to Cambodia, I returned to Southeast Asia on a solo journey, working with a team of talented, underprivileged Cambodian artisans to create The Brave Collection, a jewelry line to raise funds and awareness to fight the sexual trafficking of women in Cambodia and back home in New York (where I later learned that trafficking also exists).

{ Her jewelry line is handmade by Cambodian artisans who come from underprivileged backgrounds or suffer from disabilities. Many of the artists are mothers, who are provided a fair and safe work environment where they earn above average wages and receive benefits like health insurance and stipends for their children's education. }

Mu-Hsien: How are the connections you’re making with the artists in cambodia affecting you and how does it impact them? 

Designer Jessica Hendricks with Nimul, a Cambodian Artisan

Jessica: I have learned so much from these amazing women. They celebrate each day with gratitude and they are endlessly creative. For them, our priority is to provide them with dignified, sustainable work in the arts. More than that though, we are working to provide an opportunity for these women to re-connect with their own heritage, and to take pride in the beauty of their culture by celebrating it with our global community. (Below, an artist works on the metal detailing that says, “Brave” (Klaa-han) in Khmer.)

{ This sterling silver with gold vermeil necklace depicts the Buddhist Flag, representing Wisdom and Compassion} 

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Mu-Hsien: In moments of doubt, uncertainty or challenges...what keeps you on your path? 

Jessica: I have so many ideas, whims, doubts and inspirations all the time! Yet I have learned the value of deeply committing to one thing that truly matters. It takes time, patience and a whole lot of Bravery to stay strong through the ups and downs that come with building something from scratch. 

Mu-Hsien: How do you live like you’re traveling? 

Jessica: I bring elements of my travels into my life in Brooklyn. I have dream catchers from Tulum hanging on my walls, and tiny wooden elephants from Laos. In moments of anxiety I remember how incredibly vast this planet is and it helps me channel a bit of the groundedness and deep peace I feel while I am out in the world exploring.

 

In honor of mothers and the ever-courageous females in your life, use code "LIVELIKEYOURETRAVELING" and Brave Collection will make an additional donation through May 10, to Free To Shine Cambodia, an organization which fights human trafficking. 

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For more ways to connect with the people and world around you,
get everyday ideas @LiveLikeYoureTraveling