Hi Friends,

When I was working on last weeks post on exploring slow travel as a way to initiate a reset for 2026 within the scope of the “1” year, I thought to myself: what are some of the places or experiences you might like to explore in 2026?

With that question in mind, I went back to my notes app where I make a list of things of interest that I find on the internet regarding cities and countries I love and know and ones I’ve never been to. Then I headed to my instagram saved files and ended up doing a deeper dive into the “travel trends” posted by legacy publications on the platform for the coming year.

Whenever I read a list of travel trends I do remind myself that these lists generally are a mix of interesting intel within the industry but that they also serve the agenda of advertisers. I have to push back on one particular year-over-year messaging (especially since 2020 and covid) that “huge cruises are back and hot!” Ugh. Really? I am not including that one on my list below because I think, no they are not. But I do think that there is some excellent intel out there to be gathered on what’s new and exciting in travel.

So, for today’s post, I am including 3 trends from several legacy publication sources that are ‘hot’ for 2026 and including 3 of my own that I think are pretty cool. Especially for travelers that might want to travel solo but not alone.

What do I mean by solo but not alone? Well, I think a great way to dip your toes into solo travel is to join an intimate group of people for a focused interest trip. You are still going solo in the way that you are traveling without a known companion but not completely alone. Does that make sense? It makes sense to me and I think it is a pretty nice way to get acclimated to solo travel. What do you think?

3 TRAVEL TRENDS* THAT SOUND PRETTY COOL (AND I’M KEEN TO GIVE A GO):

*from international travel publications

LUXURY TRAIN TRIPS - this one has been on my radar for a few years but it seems to be ramping up for 2026.

I’ve had my eye on the Royal Scotsman trips through the UK; the Orient Express trips from Venice to Paris; and the Eastern Express to take me through Southeast Asia.

Think luxury sleeping cabins, deluxe dining and bar cars, and dreamy vistas. This way of travel is not inexpensive but an investment in a truly indulgant and old-world slow travel experience.

VIKING WELLNESS - as someone who started my professional career working for world-renowned wellness resorts, Canyon Ranch, for 6 years I am no stranger to wellness travel experiences and this trend reported by Condè Nast Traveler immediately caught my eye and demanded more research.

Viking Wellness focuses on “raw, elemental experiences” according to several sources. This sounded intriguing but I needed to know exactly what those words meant. Here is what I found: as Scandinavian-inspired experiences from hot/cold therapy and hygge have gone mainstream, Viking Wellness seems to be more, well, intense. Think guided breathing in the sauna experiences, chanting, and birch tree tapping while drinking pure Icelandic waters and communal dining. I’m officially intrigued.

Check out this Viking Wellness Experience at Sky Lagoon Reykjavik (I have not had the Viking Experience but I have experienced Sky Lagoon and while it became heavily “instagrammed” I loved my experience there. My day was not overloaded with “influencers” or wannabes and the setting and experience and food was heavenly).

Another one I’m keen to explore is Eleven Deplar Farm, which is also in Iceland (I loved Iceland when I spent a week there on my very first completely solo vacation in 2014) - “Rejuvenate with Nordic traditions, geothermal waters, and cold plunges in our 5,000-square-foot spa that includes flotation tanks and a sound bathing studio.” The location is remote and insanely beautiful. I feel it calling my name.

GROCERY STORES & LOCAL MARKET EXPERIENCES - this one has shown up on several publications lists and I’m into it. As someone who lived in Portland, Oregon for many years, local markets and shops are the places to find super interesting regional beverages, snacks, sauces, organic meats and more!

Think of this like going on a pub crawl but you go on a grocery store crawl instead. I am always googling “cool grocery store near me” whenever I travel anywhere (or best cheese shop or wine store). The epic 7-elevens of Japan come to mind immediately and the bodegas of the train stations of Kyoto and Osaka stocked with the best egg salad sandwiches of your life. Personally, I know of so many GEMS of small markets, pantry’s and shops that I would explore in Edinburgh. In Turin, Italy I did an epic walking tour that included several stops at the incredible large market in the city, also stopping at a food store that has been run by 6 generations of women, and a local fish monger. So. FUN. And delicious!

MY PERSONAL 3 TRAVEL TRENDS

These are travel trends I fully support and I’m seeing blowing up as I travel around the world.

READING AND REST RETREATS - this is one of my favorite trends of the last few years and I just see these kind of trips continuing to expand. They are just as they sound - a small group of people who gather to read together and rest. Taking a break from the world in a beautiful, inspiring place while diving into books of their choice. A focused time to reset.

A great example of a reading and rest retreat is here at Middle Colenso Farm in the UK. I’ve tried to make this work a couple of times over the last two years but the timing hasn’t been right. The properties curated by Christen and her husband, Chris are absolutely lovely and this particular experience is loosely structured and full-service (breakfast, lunch, and dinner plus snacks - pilates classes if interested - group discussions if desired).

A new one on my list for 2026 is Wild Read Retreat in Scotland - “reclaim your main character energy”. The Scottish Highlands, reading, rest, 10 women - all of this is so much YES to me. I can’t wait to learn more.

PET AND HOUSE SITTING - more and more people are traveling the world by offering their services as Pet/House sitters. I personally began my international exploration of traveling this way in 2025 and this sums it up: “WHY didn’t I do this sooner?” I have had the most incredible experiences being a companion to wonderful pets while living in a city that I love or am exploring for the first time. I just did a wonderful sit between Christmas and just after New Years in Melbourne, Australia and took care of the sweetest soul of an elder-dog, Mr Jenkens. I didn’t have to do a sit during this time but something was calling to me so I started looking in the Melbourne area at the beginning of December and Mr. Jenkens just jumped out to me. I stayed in an area of Melbourne that I had never been to before and was beautiful, peaceful and full of excellent cafes, book stores and lovely locals. Mr. Jenkens and I took slow walks (he is 15!) through the neighborhood, spent many hours on the lovely patio together and cuddled at night.

I have made true friends of the people I have sat for over the last year and have been asked back by several folks more than once in less than a year. I’m not saying that to brag. I am saying that this is a very unique opportunity to develop wonderful relationships, in addition to the bonus of travel, if you approach it in that spirit.

I will say this: you need to be pet focused to be successful using this route to travel. People are looking for peace of mind that their beloved pets are being cared for and companioned while they travel. They are also looking for care for their home but that is secondary to their pets care. Having clear expectations on both sides is key to a wonderful and successful experience.

WRITERS RETREATS - you don’t have to be a published author to attend a writing retreat. Of course that depends which ones you are looking at but there are an abundance of writing focused retreats scheduled around the world in 2026. Wherever you are in your writing journey - just starting out, working on a manuscript or project or a published professional writer - there are retreats for you!

I would say you need to carefully vet a writers retreat to set good expectations for what you want vs what is provided but if you are interested in writing, what an amazing opportunity to have focused time with a professional to invest in your writing and/or creative practices.

At the top of my “want to do in 2026” is with Fiona Melrose ‘Melrosa Retreat’ in Tuscany. From a standpoint of gorgeous surroundings and the fact that all the offerings of the property sound so amazing, this one immediately drew me in. For information, dates and costs on writing retreats, please contact Fiona directly at mail@fionamelrose.com.

Another selection of retreats I have bookmarked is with the award-winning author Dani Shapiro. I have been following her retreats for years and the one she holds in Positano, Italy is particularly dreamy.

Finally, my friend Anne Boyd-Rioux, who writes the substack Audacious Women, started doing writing retreats in 2025 in her cozy cottage in the UK and in Sicily. She will be doing more going into 2026 and I am so excited for her expansion into leading retreats on writing and creativity for women.

The above are just a few examples of the availability of writing retreats available in the world. I think there is truly something for everyone (crime writers. Horror writers. Romantasy writers. Non-fiction writers!) and doing good research online, in the category of your interest and the part of the world you might like to travel to, will bring some good options.

There is SO much to explore in the way of travel. This post just offers a tiny exploration of the vast experiences available out there in the world, in solo slow travel, but I hope they spark your curiosity and inspire you to delve further into one or all.

What do you think of these travel trends?

Have you done any of the above?

Are there any trends you love that I’m missing?

Please let me know in the comments below or by hitting reply to this email.

Thanks so much for being here.

Until next time my friends, stay safe.

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Hello friends and welcome to PATL in 2026.

I have a quick personal note before I get to today’s main post on ‘Why Slow Solo Travel is Perfect for a Life Reset”.

I don’t feel right just diving into my 2026 travel content without acknowledging the darkness that we are facing everyday in the world. The news seems to bring something more horrifying every single day and it is a lot. While I was working on edits for this post about travel; new beginnings; freedom; healing; and resets, more horrible news came across my dashboard and I stopped and thought should I continue?

And then, almost immediately, the universe responded in the form of two different message showing up across my feed.

The first was literally titled: why dark times call for us to make, create, connect and share. Basically saying if you are called to create and connect, do it! Making and sharing things from the heart creates positive frequency in the world and we need all the positive frequencies we can get. I fully embrace this ideology and thought ok, I hear you.

Next came a link to Sarah Wilson’s latest substack post. Sarah is a journalist, an entrepreneur, and activist. She is currently working on a book about societal collapse called, well, The Collapse Book. She workshops chapters on her substack and her posts always make me stop and think and consider new perspectives. In her latest, about where we are at this time in the world and the powers that be seeming to want to destroy everything (sorry to be blunt) this quote stood out most to me:

[about the tech bros and ultra-rich]

“If we (the 99%) are being shut out of the dying system and the ridiculous, unsustainable fake worlds they [above referenced bros and rich] are building off the back of the crumbling mess of capitalism, let’s let them. Yes, let’s live otherwise in right relationships with each other and with life. We will have to anyway so let’s own it.”

This quote made me think how this time is an opportunity to begin building the world we want to see, rather than the one they want us to see, or better expressed, how they want us to consume.

Both messages inspired me to get back at it and show up and make things. I want to help people travel, reset, explore, experience, connect, and love this magical world we live in. Sharing my experience living as an international citizen, taking my work “remote”, and more often than not making it up as I go for the last 7 years, has taught me a lot. So, if readers want to get inspired and learn how they can do the same, or some version of the same, I want to show up here and help them do it.

I also want to say it is ok (more than ok) for all of us to feel exhausted and overwhelmed. What is happening in the United States in intentional. It is called ‘flooding the zone’ and it is part of the plan of the current administration to beat us down. This chaos ripples out into the world and into the collective consciousness along with other “leaders” terrifying and horrific acts, it is a LOT. But as Sarah wrote, let’s live otherwise in right relationships with each other and with life. And I hope to create community and connection through my writing.

Ok - thank you for letting me express myself. Here we go with the first post of 2026!

Why 2026 is Perfect for Slow Solo Travel - and a Life Reset

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When I was thinking about how to kick off the new year here on PATL, I started with the fact that 2026 is a “1” year.

To explain what this means, in numerology, 2026 is a universal 1 year

[2026 = 2+0+2+6 = 10- 1] marking the very beginning of a new 9-year cycle for the world.

The themes of a 1 year include:

• New ideas

• Self-expression

• Fresh starts

• Independence

• Self leadership

So, I see 2026 as an open door, with something new waiting just over the threshold.

And, I find all of these above themes, through personal experience, to be aligned with slow solo travel.

What is slow travel exactly?

Well, I think slow travel can be many things to different people, but having done this myself for many years now I have come up with my personal definition:

I define slow travel as mindful and immersive, staying in one place longer rather than rushing through many cities. Engaging with locals by staying in neighborhoods that are clear cultural communities. Opting for walking, biking, and public transportation like trains and buses to get an authentic feel and knowledge for the place. Supporting local restaurants and markets, artists and makers, rather than patronizing big brands or obvious tourist traps or viral social media spots (ugh).

Combining the two:

Slow solo travel + a 1 year = the perfect time for a life reset.

When I was drafting this post, I also pictured women of a certain age, 45+, in the prime of their life and on the verge of, or in the middle of, a whole new chapter, the inspired 3rd act, as I like to reference it myself. I thought how this fresh start year might be turbo-charged with slow solo travel opportunities.

And, as the “old world” seems to be disintegrating around us, slow solo travel can give us the chance to let go of anything we want to shed and begin to craft something entirely new. The energy behind taking those brave first steps not only benefits the action-taker but reverberates out to the world around them in positive, coherent and conscious ways.

Even though I definitely have a specific reader in mind while writing here, I feel that no matter who or where you are in life, slow solo travel can provide the reset, healing and intention-setting space to craft what you want from this 1 year and beyond.

Because travel changes us. I know this to be true.

Whether you’re traveling for a week, a month, or a year, approaching your travels with intention—being clear about what you want from the experience of exploring a new place on your own—can be deeply transforming.

I would love to know:

What, and where, is calling to you in 2026??

Until next time….take good care out there.

I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has stuck with me, cheered me on, and sent me lovely message about what I’ve shared here over the past 2+ years. I truly appreciate all of you.

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Coming January 21st - Travel Trends for 2026 - specifically which trends I think are excellent for slow solo female travelers and a few personal recommendations of my own.

If you enjoyed this post, please hit the heart button at the top or bottom of this post. This helps others find Pied À Terre Life and also delights me! Thank you so much.

New to PATL? You might like this post:

Considering your own slow solo travel adventure for 2026?

I’m here to help! Book a complimentary 20-minute zoom so we can get acquainted and I can learn about you and your goals. Just hit reply to this email. I can’t wait to meet you!

If you are interested in a formal planning session, email me by hitting reply for more details and pricing.

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Hello Friends,

It is officially my birthday (at the writing of this post) and in the spirit of renewal (a new year around the sun kicking off), I am going in a bit of a different direction with this post.

This story has been taking shape since the end of August and it is a bit different, a bit of a look behind my personal curtain, and other worldly, so to speak. My hope is you find some goodness in my storytelling and sharing. Or enjoy the ride at least.

So, with a deep breath in, here we go.

The Season of the Witch, Time Travel and 57 Lessons for my 57th Birthday

So, here I am, finishing this post on the eve of my 57th (!) birthday with a story that is apropos for October and the ‘season of the witch’. Or what I call our liminal month, when the veil is thinnest, and we are more in touch with the spirit world that surrounds us. However, this story begins at the end of August 2025, at the very end of my month visit to the US, with a sudden illness and a need to be in bed for 3-days.

Those 3-days saw some startling incidents that led me to spend the last 2 months taking time with “a few people I used to be” (thank you, Joan Didion, for the wonderful words to help describe my process accurately) and learning from them. In revisiting the past, I have laid plans for the future, taking the best messages and lessons from my past versions, propelling me forward into this next era of my life.

Ok, let’s begin the story by going back to August 22, 2025.

The last week of my month-long visit to Portland, on the evening of August 22nd, out of nowhere, I got sick. Really sick. I was overcome with illness and exhaustion and after purging my body, finally fell into a deep sleep. That night, during what I called my fever dream, I had a very vivid experience. A visit from myself. My 70-year old self, to be specific.

As I wakened in the dream, I couldn’t see my physical face and body clearly, as I was kind of radiant and misty (which was nice) but it was me and I was there with a message for my 56-year old self:

“I need you to get serious this year about some things, starting now” she said kindly but firmly.

Kind of shaking my head and looking around, I saw I wasn’t in my temporary apartment in Portland anymore. My companion and I were sitting together on one of my favorite memorial benches, on a stunning little grassy promenade, overlooking the sea in Aberdour, Scotland, where I was so lucky to spend six weeks this past spring. For those that don’t know, a memorial bench is paid for and installed in the memory of someone who has died, placed in a place they loved, for the living to enjoy. I think they are absolutely lovely and would very much like one for myself when I am gone.

Sitting closely together on the bench, as a gentle breeze blew my hair around my face, scenting it with the salty briny-ness of the sea, 70-year old me took my hand in hers and her grip was soft and reassuring. Holding my gaze, she told me that I was doing a good job overall managing change, and while I would continue going through a transformation over the next few years (years?!), things were coming together beautifully. However, in order for me to be in my most optimal place in 13 years, I needed to give focus to some things starting now.

Future me said that as this specific 19-year era I was in was now ending (I should note that the last week of August 2006, was when I moved from Tucson to Portland, changing my life drastically in every way, and was exactly 19 years ago from this day) I should spend some time with a “few people I used to be” and write down what I wanted to take from them, brief messages and lessons in particular, into this new phase of my life. Holding tightly to her hand, I told her I would do this.

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Then, she shared the focus areas I needed to give immediate attention to. They were pretty specific and in the following order: strengthening my body foundation for optimal balance, movement and flexibility; change my diet by quitting sugar and limiting alcohol; spend as much time in nature as possible; fully embrace my spiritual transformation; get serious about my (novel/screenplay) writing; and, finally, sharing more transparently what calls to me, while trusting my intuition, as the world is experiencing a major shift in consciousness, and I need to show up as my true self.

When she finished sharing these areas of focus, I wanted to ask her about several other things that I have been contemplating for my future but she said our time was up. She stood, and as she rose, so did I. With the sounds of the ocean waves getting louder, she embraced me and I felt so much love and safety in her touch. Then, suddenly, I felt as though I was falling and I awoke in my bed in Portland, with the early morning light streaming through the crack in the window shade, and the faint smell of the sea in my nostrils. I laid there a moment and then turned on the bedside lamp, got my journal and wrote down everything that happened in my dream.

In no way did I doubt the reality of the dream. I believe with every ounce of my being in what I call the collapsing of timelines and that time is all around us and this visit was real.

At the very least I believe in the energy of future me being able to visit and communicate with me in my dreams.

I also have been feeling for some time that major change is in my near future. Changes in the way I have been living, how I make my living, and where I live. Changes in my body, mind and how I show up in the world. All of this has been swirling closer to the surface over the last 2 years.

Oh, and did I mention that I am beginning my 2nd Saturn Return this year?

What is a Saturn Return? Saturn, the planet of discipline, structure, and long-term commitment, takes roughly 29.5 years to return to the exact position it occupied at the moment of your birth – meaning, we experience our first Saturn Return at around 28-30 years old, and our second Saturn Return 57-60 years of age. This return signals a period of maturation, asking you to take full ownership of your life, decisions, and ambitions. It can often bring tests, challenges, and profound realizations that help clarify who you are and what you truly want.

While a Saturn Return can feel intense, it is ultimately a gift—it clears away illusions and anything that no longer aligns with your path. It urges you to build something meaningful and lasting, often prompting career shifts, relationship changes, and/or deep inner transformations.

As soon as transiting Saturn (in our skies) enters the zodiac sign of its natal position (e.g., Aries in 2025), the general themes of your return start becoming active. You may begin to feel the weight of Saturn’s lessons—responsibility, discipline, restructuring—but in a broad, preparatory way.

When Saturn is within 5–10 degrees of your natal Saturn, the return starts becoming much more personal and direct. Life events and internal shifts will push you toward greater maturity, accountability, and long-term decision-making.

The most defining moment is when Saturn reaches the exact degree and minute of your natal Saturn. This is the culmination of the return, where the most significant shifts, challenges, or milestones occur.

And as Saturn moves past the exact degree, you are still integrating the lessons of your return. Some people feel relief, while others experience a continued unfolding of Saturn’s impact as they apply what they’ve learned.

So, with the knowledge that I’m officially beginning my 2nd Saturn Return it’s not surprising to me that there are going to be shake-ups happening in my life, spiritually and materially, as I’ve experienced this before.

Back on the morning of August 23rd, still woozy from my illness, but also invigorated by the dream, I spent the day on the sofa, alternating between napping and regenerating, and going back in time through memories, and writing.

During that afternoon, I thought a lot of my 1st Saturn Return, which was from 1995-1998 and all I will say right now is WHOA. So much happened during that 3-year transit that changed my life radically. In hindsight, I could see those 3 years of blessings, chaos, stress and surprises clearly led to a decade plus of a “golden era” of my life. The memories came back fast and furious, and I started writing down some of my key lessons from those years in particular. I spent the next couple of days resting and writing, and reliving the magic of the dream from 70-year old me.

Then, on the 3rd night of my illness recovery during that last week of August 2025, I had another dream. Very vivid and real. In this dream, the present me, 56-year old Michele, was visiting 27-year old me! The version of me that was on the cusp of her 1st Saturn Return, in 1995. I was back in my tiny apartment in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, watching 27-year old me asleep in my bed, with my 6-year old son in the bedroom next door. I sat gently on the edge of the bed and touched her shoulder. She rolled over and her eyes widened, but not in fear, in calm recognition - she knew who I was. Feeling as though I didn’t have as much time as I did with 70-year old me, I took her hand in mine and said:

You have no idea how good life is going to get. Your life is going to be amazing. But here is the important thing: no one is coming to save you. No matter what narrative people are giving you. Ignore your family and (sociopath) boyfriend - you have everything inside you to make a magical life for you and for Zach. But it is up to you alone. Do not buy into this linear expectation of how life is supposed to go for a woman or what is “expected” (more marriage, more kids, needing a man to help you, that you can’t do it all yourself, yada yada yada). You can do it yourself and build something incredible. But here is the thing: there are many timelines available right now and time is always shifting. Choose the one that is calling to you most, that big dream version of your life where you are not sure how you are going to get there, that seems impossible….but just trust me, the life you want is not impossible to get on your own and you will succeed. Listen to your friends and mentors at work, they are smart, intuitive people who are rooting for this timeline for you. There are also bigger forces supporting this future for you. Write this down where only you can see it and revisit it often.

I hugged her tight and quickly got up, leaving the bedroom to visit my son’s room. Smiling at his sleeping face, I watched for a moment, as he slept in his narrow little boy bed, holding tight to his special forever friend - a stuffed dog from his baby-life, that we called “Sickie” (named this because he helped him when he was sick). Suddenly, I felt myself falling and woke up in my bed in Portland, wide awake and feeling as though I was fully recovered from my illness. Raising the window shade, I let the bright morning sun in, and grabbed my journal and wrote everything down.

Over the last 2 months, I’ve taken these dreams seriously, combing back through my life, and seeing so much - the good, the not-so-great, the amazing and the challenges and obstacles and how I have needed them all. I also immediately took steps and put focus on the areas that my future self said I needed to take seriously. I am keeping a daily journal on progress on all of them - doing a 90-day challenge to document my progress as we roll out of 2025 - to keep me on track. This has been an incredibly invigorating and inspiring time, as I move forward toward a new future, a new timeline, and thinking about how I want to show up and be of service to others.

In the spirit of “sharing more transparently” this post came together and I will tell you it is a little scary to share all of this but also incredibly liberating.

As my birthday drew closer, and with it the official kick-off of my 2nd Saturn Return, I spent time coming up with 57-lessons and messages to take with me into this new era. This list will be a touchstone, so to speak, to keep me going and on-track personally as we, as a world, work our way into a new era (hopefully a much more inclusive and better one for all beings on this planet).

But before we get to the list, I was also called to share a few things you might not know about me that might assist in the overall understanding of the content and a glimpse at these past versions of me:

I was pregnant at 19, married at 19 (at the strong urging of my non-religious parents), gave birth to my son at 19 (2 months shy of my 20th birthday) and filed for divorce at 21. I became a single mother and raised my son on my own. It is not hyperbole when I say that I would not change one moment. I have lived many different kinds of lives and the only constant is change.

My first important professional job was with Canyon Ranch, a world-renowned wellness spa and I started working for them when I was 24. Extremely cutting edge for its time, Canyon Ranch continues to be a world-leader in its space to this day. I started working there as a hotel reservationist and through generous mentors and hard work, had some of the biggest growth of my life. I would say that working for Canyon Ranch (both in the Berkshires and in Tucson, Arizona) for 6 years (1992-1998), and the people there that believed in me and supported me, was the most important transit of my life. My experiences there set me up for my future successes, both professionally and personally, and gave me tools to navigate obstacles throughout my life.

I began seriously studying astrology and tarot in 2018. I started offering tarot readings to friends in 2019 and continue with my practice and education to this day. I find studying and practicing both remarkably soothing and introspective.

Most of you who have read PATL know this but for new folks - I have not had a permanent home since mid-2018. In 2018, I was called to “live life differently” and define success for myself, which saw me putting 98% of my life in a storage unit and begin traveling the world in 2019. In 2023, I gave away almost all of the contents of the storage unit and ethically disposing of the rest. You can read about that process below.

I am a certified Death Duola [or end-of-life duola]. An end-of-life duola, as per the International End of Life Doula Association, is someone who provides companionship, comfort, and guidance to those planning for death, diagnosed with a terminal illness, or facing imminent death. Duolas offer non-medical holistic support encompassing emotional, spiritual, and practical care. Duolas offer resources to help the dying person and their circle of care to make informed decisions in a supportive environment. I completed my first round of studies and certification this year, through the University of Vermont, and will be continuing to study death and companioning the dying to learn as much as I can and offer support for those in need (which I believe is all of us at any time in life!) to live with the intent to die well and with dignity. I am very passionate about taking the fear out of dying and truly believe that we can inform how we die. I also want to encourage people, and support them, in talking about death earlier in life and having a clear vision of what they would want for their later years.

I believe that we are on the verge of a new world rising and it is one that is a better place for all beings on this planet. I want to contribute as much as I can to that rising.

57 messages/lessons from the last 57 years:

1. No one is coming to save you. You have everything you need to make the moves you want. Trust yourself.

2. Never ask anyone for an opinion on your life choices.

3. How lucky you are things didn’t work out.

4. Embrace death - study death - welcome death. We all die. Death is as natural as being born. Have an active intention to die WELL.

5. Resisting what is only brings suffering.

6. Get comfortable with people not understanding you.

7. Forgive without the need for an apology.

8. You are worthy of being seen.

9. If you can get past your entitlement your life will open in ways you can’t imagine.

10. Say no. Leave it there. No explanations necessary.

11. Never worry about your pants size.

12. Love all the versions of you, especially the ones you disliked most.

13. Paint. Garden. Go to dance class. You don’t have to be perfect, or even good.

14. How lucky you are to not be what you almost were.

15. ‘Zach’s Mom’ will be the best title of your life.

16. Your relationship with your son will grow and expand throughout life. This is a rare gift.

17. Never stop believing in your ability to create magic.

18. “I hope one day you have the courage to walk away from everything that makes you miserable” - Hayao Miyazaki expressed perfectly what I felt, opening a door I walked through.

19. Be friends with people of all ages throughout your life.

20. Never hesitate to tell the ones you love how much you love them.

21. Hug and kiss and spend as much time as possible with your son, your grandma and grandpa.

22. Leave the party early.

23. Continue to write letters to people you know and you don’t know - tell them what you appreciate about them. Mail them.

24. Attention. Here and Now. Remember: it is always the present moment.

25. Listen without waiting to talk.

26. There is no such thing as linear time.

27. Your thoughts are not facts, they are habits.

28. Keep electronics out of the bedroom, starting with TV’s.

29. AWE - experience AWE every damn day - look up - that is all it takes.

30. Do not engage with [your own] created drama.

31. Do not engage with other people’s drama.

32. It’s not about YOU.

33. Be generous to everyone you meet.

34. Time in nature will always anchor you to your power.

35. Rescue a dog and a cat (or two or ten).

36. Sincerity and good manners are very important.

37. Volunteer at animal shelters and sanctuaries - make it a priority.

38. Birds are magical. Spend dedicated time watching them.

39. The more you suffer the more it shows you really care is NOT TRUE for any relationship.

40. Be a lifelong learner.

41. Change it up as much as you want.

42. How you spend your days make up your life. Choose accordingly.

43. Don’t overthink it - just start.

44. Protect your peace.

45. Play the long game.

46. Owning a house will be wonderful.

47. Owning a house will be horrible.

48. A house won’t make you happy.

49. Do not wax your brows thin.

50. There is no certainty of anything, except everything will change.

51. Nervous System Regulation will be the foundation for a healthy, balanced life.

52. Experiences vs Things.

53. Talk to the person you don’t know. Make a friend. Even just for that moment in time.

54. Nothing is meant to grow forever.

55. Talk to animals: birds, cats, dogs, fish…all of them. Then, listen.

56. Listen to your body - connect to energy within. This is consciousness.

57. You’ve only just begun.

Thank you so very much for reading the first post of Liminal Alchemy: the magical process of transformation in the space in-between.

I so appreciate you being a part of this community. I hope you found some pleasure in reading this and would love to hear from you if any of this resonated. Please send your questions, comments, suggestions!

Until next time, wishing you much peace and calm in a chaotic world.

Take good care my friends.

If you know someone who would enjoy this post, you can share it by clicking the button below. Thank you so much.

Chapter 1

The frigid cloud of breath could be mistaken for smoke - so thick and porous - but it quickly disappears, scentless, as another forms with the rise and fall of my chest.

I am blowing on my clenched fists, huddling in my dark, freezing car, with the heater blasting what feels like ice through the vents.

“C’mon, c’mon, COME ON” I mutter, willing the car to heat up faster, perhaps fueled by my impatience and frustration in addition to the gas in the tank.

As I peer through the tiniest beginnings of thaw at the bottom of my frozen windshield, fat, fluffy snowflakes, the kind that stick, dance and multiply quickly across the parking lot.

I groan because I know, I know, that we are in for a nor’easter tonight. Never mind that the Weather Channel, which I watch religiously while getting ready for work every morning, had zero snow in the forecast. Ha! Western Massachusetts in late February laughs in the face of meteorologists! We have already had a dozen nor’easters so far this year, even though 1995 was predicted to be a “light” winter. No such thing, I think, having spent most of my 26 years living in this corner of New England. I’ve experienced blizzards as early as October and seen Old Man Winter give us a good foot of the white stuff as late as May.

As I feel the forced air of the heater turn from cold to warm-ish, I give the gas pedal of my car a bit of a pump, hoping again to speed up the process. I look out the drivers side window, at the quiet employee parking lot of Canyon Ranch, where I just finished work for the day. Normally, I would find the view of heavy falling snow, illuminated in the old-fashioned gas lamps that dot the lot quite charming if I wasn’t so annoyed.

“No matter what” I whisper “No matter if this is a nor’easter. Nothing is keeping me from Kevin Freaking Bacon.”

Chapter 2

“Is it only two hours ago that I left work?” I think frantically. “Is this even real? Or is it a dream?”

I might be a little hysterical.

As I stand, frozen in place, in the long, carpeted hallway, with my back firmly pressed against the wall, I blink multiple times, hoping my vision might clear and everything I am seeing (or think I’m seeing?) will just disappear. If I close my eyes for a few seconds, I think, when I open them the hallway will be empty, warmly lit by the sconces lining the walls, guiding the way back to the staircase leading to the lobby. So I keep my eyes closed for a minute. Or maybe a few seconds. Or an hour? What is time, right now?

Eyes shut tight, I strain to hear the music that was happily following me from the bar, as I made my way up the back stairs but it is gone. Completely gone. Replaced with a heavy silence, only disturbed by the sound of my own breathing. Which is loud.

But, wait….it’s not just my breathing anymore is it?

Can this thing breathe? And if it can breathe, Oh my God, can it touch me?

Chapter 3

The warmth of the fireplace in the Lion’s Den, the cozy, eclectic bar of the Red Lion Inn, was so welcome after the drive from Lenox to Stockbridge taking twice as long in the snow storm. When I came down the stairs, entering from the side door, brushing the heavy snow from my coat, and removing my hat, I could see that the fireplace table was still empty with a sign that said “Reserved for Guest” on it, even though I was late due to the unexpected storm. Taking my seat, I peeled off my coat, scarf, and cardigan, quickly warmed after being so cold, so much so that I was almost hot.

The warmth stayed with me when I left to find the bathroom, in a hurry, not wanting to miss any more of the show. But as soon as I stepped into this long hallway off the back stairs to the second (or third?) floor of the historic Inn, detoured by the out-of-order ancient elevator, I became icy cold again, as if I was back in my car, in the parking lot. If I open my eyes now, will I again see my breath?

Keep your eyes closed, I think to myself. But for how long? And will it go? Can I just be back in the Lion’s Den now? As these thoughts are racing through my brain I feel something move next to me. And with a ragged breath, I press even deeper into the wall, maybe hoping to sink through it. But I have no such luck as I feel the edge of a frame dig into my shoulder, no doubt holding one of the many prints of famous Norman Rockwell paintings that adorn the walls.

Taking a deep breath in, I slowly, reluctantly, open my eyes. The hallway is darker (and longer? Is that possible?) than when I stepped in to it but not pitch black. Thankfully the sconces are still giving warm light. But just as I think that, they flicker and almost completely gutter out.

Then, I hear that laugh again, strange and hollow. The laugh that made me stop in my tracks as I walked into the hall just moments ago.

I turn my head to the left and like a lightning strike, the sconces blaze and then flicker out. The large window at the end of the hall, lit with the soft lights of the street and the blinding white of heavy falling snow, frames an impossibly tall figure: bulky and clearly wearing a fancy top hat. He wasn’t there moments ago. No, moments ago he was on the other side of me. Wait, was it him breathing in tandem with the frantic beating of my heart just moments ago? Or was it hours? I feel so disoriented. Just how long had I been here?

Turning my head back towards the stairwell I just ascended, it is as if someone dropped a great black curtain over that end of the hallway - I can no longer see where the hall even ends. Wasn’t there a window there too?

And as I am standing there, head turned, stuck against the wall, I feel rather than see someone come up beside me.

Dare I look? God! I just need to get back to the Lion’s Den.

And back to Kevin Bacon!

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Chapter 4

But I can’t think about Kevin right now or how when I entered the close, intimate space of the Lion’s Den the Bacon Brothers were already onstage and singing. Or how all eyes turned towards me when I received a friendly, smiling salute from Kevin when he saw me standing just inside the door. At that moment I thought, Hell yeah, this was 1000% worth battling the nor’easter!

But no, I’m not thinking about any of that now , as I am looking directly into the eyes of a man (a man, right?) who most certainly is not, how shall I say, currently alive in 1995?

What gives it away? That he is not alive? Well, he is definitely real but no, not alive.

I look him up and down as I feel his realness in front of me, but maybe that’s just energy, his and mine combined into something tangible. He’s dressed not of this age, of the 90’s. He seems to be in a top hat, and a cravat, and tails, which all could be explained by some sort of logic….no, it’s the translucency of his body coupled with the frigid air that has descended like a heavy drop cloth over both of us. And when my eyes train down towards the floor, (anything not to look into his eyes), I see that his feet are missing. His long legs just fading into nothing above the fleur de lis patterned, red velvet carpet…is this a trick of my eyes?

Suddenly, the stillness is shattered as I hear that laugh again and realize it is not coming from him and Oh, Lord, has something else joined us in the hall?

A thick and icy stream of sweat slithers down my spine - how can sweat feel so cold? - and I hear a loud voice that is not mine but is in my head say “You can move! Do it! NOW!”

Huh? What?

Shaking my head hard, feeling like I woke from a nightmare, I will myself to move. I turn away from the apparition of the man in the top hat with no feet, as if in slow motion, and head blindly for the stairs. Or where I think they are. Should be, anyway.

Walking stiffly at first, zombie-like, it is slow-going but then I jump as though electrified when there is a loud bang of a door slamming, and heavy footsteps behind me. Oh, God are they running?

GO! the voice in my head that isn’t me shrieks, and I am jolted into a sprint down the hallway.

As I near the end of the long hallway, the sconces flicker again and the stairs come into vision and suddenly I can hear the faint sounds of lively “forosoco” music (the signature sound of the Bacon Brothers), playing once again. Breathing hard, I stop at the head of the stairs, and I can’t help myself, I dare to look over my shoulder, back down the hall. The far end of the hall is now black and for all that is Holy are those eyes glowing? Only a second or two has passed but as I lock my gaze with the eyes, the sconces flicker again and I know I have to move. I stumble down the stairs, twisting with circular stairwell, clutching the banister as I go.

Reaching the bottom of the stairs, I burst through the door and feel the cozy elegance of the Red Lion Inn lobby envelop me. I clearly hear the music from the Lion’s Den swell and then stop and the loud claps of applause shakes me from my stupor.

Chapter 5

Standing in the lobby, a little stunned still, I’m wondering what the heck just happened when a bellhop, dressed in a modern rendition of an old-timey Norman Rockwell era uniform, appears in front of me and says “Can I help you?”

I look intently at him (yes, he is real I’m thinking) and say “Uhhh, I was looking for the bathroom but the elevator is out of order, so I took the back stairs…” my voice trails off, because just then the steel-cage elevator arrives with a heavy clang and the carriage doors slide open and a couple gets off, walking towards the entrance to the dinnig room.

The bellhop looks at me a little quizzically and says “If you need a bathroom, there is one just next to the phone closets across the lobby there” pointing towards the private phone closets, lined with Norman Rockwell wallpaper, which were originally installed in the 1930’s.

So much Norman Rockwell. I don’t hate it.

Continuing to be rooted in place, I again think: what the HECK just happened?

Am I losing my mind, I wonder? I don’t know.

What I do know is that I am missing Kevin and Michael perform!

I am missing the Bacon Brothers! Ugh!

Just then, the great double doors of the lobby open and a man comes in shaking off so much snow that it seems he walked a mile rather than just a few feet from the parking lot. “It’s a nor’easter alright” he exclaims to no one in particular, “And the thermometer on the porch says its only 6 degrees out there!” I watch him head for the front desk, dripping a little as he goes.

This prompts the bellhop to turn back to me and say “If you are not a guest of the hotel you might want to consider staying the night instead of going out in the storm. I am just about to make an announcement in the Lion’s Den. Do you want me to check on a room for you?”

Chapter 6

Looking around the the warm lobby, with the snow drifting in the front door which is still ajar, I think about cozying into the Lion’s Den with a nice bottle of wine, now not needing to worry about a long, slow drive home in the dark. I can listen to the rest of the Bacon Brothers set, sitting comfortably next to the roaring fire, enjoying instead of worrying about the storm. Then, when the set is done, I can chat with Kevin, and hear what’s happening with Kyra, and maybe about some films he’s got planned. I can thank him for this kind invitation to come hear him play, extended when we met at Canyon Ranch and became friendly during his and Kyra’s stay last autumn. I was so surprised and delighted when the casual invite was followed through with a package and letter arriving at the Ranch for me early this year. Kevin Bacon is a gem.

This idyllic scene plays out in my head like a movie in what feels like minutes but must just be seconds.

And then, I feel the hair on my arms all stand up. I have the distinct and unpleasant feeling of eyes on me from behind. Willing myself to not look away, I smile crookedly at the bellhop and say “Uh, no thank you. I’m good.” And rush off to the bathroom, finally.

A few minutes later I emerge, unscathed and I cross the lobby, so cheery with a warm blaze in the large ornate fireplace, taking in the group of folks sitting and chatting on the sofas, coffee table littered with wine glasses and coffee cups, as I pass. So charming. So normal.

Opening the door to the Lion’s Den, I descend into the warm, dimly lit room, and the music begins again. I feel safe, surrounded by humans and when I look up onstage I smile and nod at Kevin Bacon. I watch him singing into the microphone and playing his guitar, and as I sing along under my breath, all thoughts of the hallway drift way. I reclaim my seat by the fire, settling in to the high back chair upholstered with rich red velvet, and despite the nor’easter blowing outside, I really am looking forward to a slow drive home later. I am used to these storms after all.

I wave over my waitress and ask for a small pot of hot tea. Oh, and could she please add just half of a shot of whiskey in there for me? “Yes, of course” she says. She smiles and nods before moving away towards the back of the room. My eyes follow her and as the door swings open to the kitchen, I catch the glimpse of someone or something looming in the background, perfectly still. I blink and the door closes.

I shake my head, and as the next song begins, I tap my foot, swaying a little in my seat, letting the music transport me.

But I make a note to myself that I will be sure to slip out by the side entrance later so nothing follows me home.

The Red Lion Inn, Stockbridge, Massachusetts - Winter 1995

Happy Halloween, Samhain and Dìa de los Muertos to all who celebrate.

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Am I back?

I am back.

It’s been a minute, I know.

My pause on writing here, sharing with all of you, was only supposed to be a couple of weeks, way back in July, as I transitioned from Scotland back to the U.S. for a short stay. But the world events have been relentless. Soul-crushing, if I am being honest, and my reaction to them made it hard for me to feel like there was a “good time” to share here again.

But I have come to the conclusion that there is no good time at present, and that I very much missed my writing practice and connecting with all of you. My practice is something that takes me out of time, has me focusing on the now, being in the present moment, and I think that is so much better than worrying, or God save us, doom-scrolling. So, here I am. Back in your inbox, “planting seeds” in my [second] spring, and tending to my writing garden. I sincerely hope this finds you safe and peaceful at the very best and you can pass some calm time reading my missives. Thank you so much for being here.

WHERE IN THE WORLD?

As the northern hemisphere officially passed into autumn with the equinox on September 22nd, I find myself sitting out my favorite season this year, and I am being blessed with a second spring (and summer) in my new (temporary) home in Melbourne, Australia. As I am writing, I am looking out at the massive tree tops that surround me and can see just a sliver of the Yarra River, which is only a few steps from my front door. The sky is stunning cerulean - bright and pure - no clouds, just an expanse of blue dotted with the swift moving, mad energy of the parrots that are abundant in my neighborhood. A mixture of bright red, deep blue, yellow and orange, these birds are a riot of color and sounds, racing and chasing each other through the skies. I find myself watching and listening to them often. A good pause that is not my phone.

Melbourne, like some of my other favorite cities, is one of those that if you “wait five minutes, you will get an entirely different season” and I have experienced that many times already since arriving on September 1st. But spring is definitely “springing” with lots of flowers blooming, great produce at the local farmers market, and quick rainstorms and bright sunshine. I am happy to be back here, in the land of delicious coffee, lovely and friendly people, an abundance of art and culture and wonderful nature.

JULY-SEPTEMBER: FIRST UP, SCOTLAND

I know we last left off with me in Scotland, at the beginning of summer, with a visit from my dear friend, J the first week of June and it shocks me to see the calendar turning to October this week. Reflecting back, spending (over) half the year in the UK was a joy, with Scotland being my home for most of that time, which was rich with glorious experiences including making wonderful new friends, deepening relationships with existing friends I had made on previous visits and, of course, breaking my in-person-meetup-fast with an epic visit from J. Wonderful, indeed.

My last 6 weeks in Scotland went by way too fast but it was also the delicious slow living of summer: quite sunny and pleasant. Long days of work, wanderings and walks in the beautiful city concluded with evenings in the garden with my neighbors, chatting, as the light stayed bright well after 9 pm. It was so hard to pack my suitcase and bid adieu to my favorite place in the world on July 19th but I have some plans in the works for a more permanent return, fingers crossed. More on that coming in 2026.

If you might be planning a trip to Scotland, and Edinburgh in particular, please do let me know, I would love to be a resource. Autumn is SPECTACULAR. I have spent the last two years in Edinburgh in September and October and it is slightly painful to not be there this year but as I mentioned above, I am focusing on the being more present, in the now, and Melbourne is pretty wonderful. But that said - if you are thinking of going, please go in autumn! And let me know how I can help.

BACK TO THE U.S. - FIRST STOP: PHOENIX, AZ

Flying from Edinburgh, making my way to the US for the first time in a year, my first stop was Phoenix, AZ. While I did not miss the U.S., I always miss my son, Zach. Zach is the Director of Production for Scottsdale Performing Arts, which is an incredible arts organization with a very beautiful campus and a plethora of experiences. His job is big one, and he is very good at it (proud mom moment) and it keeps him super busy but summer is the down season, given the heat, so a good time for us to be together. Phoenix in July is a tough one though. Lacking the high elevation, and the abundance of monsoon rains of my favorite desert city, Tucson, Phoenix can be downright oppressive in summer. However, the Fates smiled on us, and the weather was relatively temperate, with many days out of the 10 I was there, under 100 degrees (which is unheard of in July). The mornings, between 6 am - 8 am, were under 80 degrees, which made for very pleasant walks without feeling scorched. Zach lives in a very nice part of Scottsdale - old neighborhoods with tidy patio homes, lots of cactus, wrens and gamble’s quail running about, and excellent views of Camelback Mountain. Spending 10 days with Zach is a gift anywhere and we spent our time doing what we love: cooking, eating great food, days at museums and bookstores, talking, watching films and just being together. I am very blessed to have this lovely relationship with my son and I cherish it.

There are some very nice places to enjoy on a visit to Phoenix, and while I will always recommend visiting Tucson first, here are some places to bookmark should you find yourself in Arizona’s capital city:

Scottsdale Performing Arts - there is a lot “on” here, especially with the recent renovation and expansion of their outdoor campus. A great place to see all kinds of performances and cultural events.

Phoenix Art Museum - we spent a wonderful afternoon here on my recent visit and we have visited in the past. They always have very interesting installations, as well as semi-permanent artist features.

Taliesin West - Frank Lloyd Wright’s winter home, this is a World Heritage site and National Historic Landmark nestled in the desert foothills of the McDowell Mountains. This is a MUST experience combining history, incredible architecture and the magic of the desert.

“Deeply connected to the desert from which it was forged, Taliesin West possesses an almost prehistoric grandeur. It was built and maintained almost entirely by Wright and his apprentices, making it among the most personal of the architect’s creations.” - from the Taliesin West website.

The Biltmore Hotel - another Frank Lloyd Wright production, this hotel is tucked back into the historic Biltmore neighborhood between Scottsdale and central Phoenix and is a wonder. Even if you don’t stay overnight, go for a snack and drink and soak up the atmosphere.

Andaz Resort - Weft + Warp Art Bar + Kitchen - this is Zach and my favorite upscale spot to have dinner and enjoy the gorgeous views of Camelback. They have an awesome happy hour.

JOYRIDE - tacos and nachos. This is my favorite spot for nachos anywhere in the world. Seriously.

Pizzeria Bianco - Chris Bianco is a LEGEND and was responsible for the James Beard foundation including pizza in their awards. It was so fun for Zach and I go to the original location in downtown Phoenix on this visit. We first went together in 1999 for his birthday and had not visited together since. Time is a construct.

Bagelfeld’s - a truly bonkers good bagel spot born during the pandemic. Some of the best I’ve had anywhere.

Chula Seafood - IYKYK - a hidden gem of a spot for luscious seafood in the desert. 2 locations in Phoenix!

Desert Botanical Gardens - the beauty of the desert.

Precious desert takeaways: the uniquely delicious smell of desert rain - the creosote bush releases oils when the rain hits its leaves producing an earthy scent I can never get enough of. The sidewinding movement of a Gekko. The chortle of a Cactus Wren which always sends me back to my son’s childhood and us making our home in Tucson. The rust colored dirt on my shoes from the desert floor and catching a glimpse of the long feathered tail of Roadrunner out of the corner of my eye.

PORTLAND, OREGON

Much too soon, it was time to say goodbye to Zach and head on to Portland, to spend the month of August. Flying into Portland is always a pleasure on a clear day (or a moody day) and experiencing the views of majestic Mt. Hood. As the plane landed, I felt myself getting excited to spend time with friends, do some work and “housekeeping” (as in change out my suitcase) and prepare for Australia.

Right away, on this visit, I had the distinct feeling of being a “visitor” rather than a homecoming. Not in a bad way but a kind of an easy, lovely way. I had an epiphany during this visit to Portland that subject is much bigger than this space, to share in today’s post, but perhaps I will write about it in the future. In short, I very much felt that Portland was no longer home for me. And the epiphany was I don’t know that it ever truly was home. There was nothing contentious or negative in this idea/wondering if Portland had ever been how I truly identified home, despite moving there very intentionally in 2006, and living there on and off since. Just this strong feeling that took up residence in my head and heart and has stayed.

In reality, I had not lived in Portland for the last 2 years, so not surprising that it did not feel like home at this point. I would spend a month (exactly) on this visit and August of 2024 saw me here for even less time. Since 2021, I spent less than 6 months a year in Oregon, bopping in and out, staying for a few months, purging my large storage unit and periodically editing down my life, while doing some in person work and planning my next international destination. But during this 2025 visit, I had the clear thought “it’s time for a permanent change plan” and making that decision was actually quite easy. I settled in for the month, and there was a sweetness that came over me - a sweetness of experiencing Portland like a visitor.

Adding to the feeling of being a visitor, I was lucky to be staying in a beautiful house in a neighborhood that I not only never lived in before but had really spent no time in: Mt. Tabor.

When I arrived to the house - a charming and classic PacNW craftsman - I was overcome with memories of visiting Portland for the first time in 2005 and thinking “I am going to live here”. This neighborhood personified everything that made me want to move to Portland in the first place: a wonderful, walkable, quiet oasis full of lovely houses with grand gardens in the front and peeking out of the backyards; lots of people walking their dogs; friendly neighbors; and the very best - a huge park with giant old growth trees, green grass, plenty of trails, a large reservoir - all on a volcanic cinder cone.

The entry to Mt. Tabor park was about a 7-minute walk from the house and I went every morning I was staying there. My companion, Scout, a sweet mixed breed dog with an excellent temperament and energy, was only too happy when I put on my walking shoes and clipped on his lead to head out early in the morning for a climb to the top. Mt. Tabor has some amazing views: of the city of Portland on one side and views of Mt. Hood and Mt St. Helen’s on the other. Scout and I would also end the day, with a post-dinner walk up Tabor, a bit shorter and most days we would find folks enjoying the long summer days of light with picnics scattered throughout the park. My experience was very wholesome and light - those are the words that kept coming to mind - and it generated a feeling of calm for me (that is frankly, very unusual in the US right now). Very close by was the Sunday Farmers Market in Montavilla and I spent every Sunday stocking up on greens, luscious seasonal berries and nectarines, and local farmers eggs. The month went by both slowly, as hot summer days tend to do and very quickly and I found myself savoring each day rather than anticipating where I was going next.

No big city is without its issues these days but I did not experience the Portland currently being described by this (unhinged) US administration. So, if you plan a visit, the food scene is still rocking, there are beautiful parks and forests, great bookstores, the quirkiness of ‘Portlandia’ is very much alive and well; and you have the stunning Oregon coast just a little over an hour west and a prolific wine region just 45 minutes out of the city. Lots to enjoy.

Here are some places I very much enjoyed on this visit:

Grana Pizza - I was oh so tempted to just go to decades-long favorites like Apizza Scholls or Ken’s Artisan Pizza (both still rocking) but my intuition said to give Grana, which is new to me, a go. Wow - my pizza was DELICIOUS. Some of the best ever.

Bamboo Sushi (the one on SE 28th) - 4 TIMES I went. And I don’t regret a one. Still a winner.

Providore Fine Foods - for an excellent selection of wines; melons (IYKYK - melon season in Oregon is nuts); snacks; bread; cheese and other selected goods.

Wellspent Market - (at their new-ish location on SE Division) - I’ve adored this shop for years and their new location is very sweet. Delicious sandwiches, epic selections of olive oil, an abundance of Japanese snacks, fine wines & sakes. They are right next door to Lauretta Jean’s so make sure to grab some pie.

Powells on Hawthorne - One of my favorite things about Portland has always been the bookstores. Powells downtown is legendary but if you don’t feel like heading into the city their Hawthorne location is pretty great.

ON TO AUSTRALIA

With my suitcase packed, I had an evening flight on my last day in Portland and I was given a lovely send-off from my friends Jenny & Jim of Fossil & Fawn, spending the afternoon enjoying wine (please get their orange wine - I am obsessed!) excellent conversation and tasty snacks in their very chic, modern home in the popular NW 23rd neighborhood. As winemakers, they offer a unique and intimate wine tasting in their urban space and I highly recommend booking an experience with them should you visit Portland. Enjoy epic wines with the best of hosts and then wander the streets of NW 23rd, full of restaurants, cafes and shops. A perfect Portland afternoon.

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I bid adieu to Portland on August 29th and hello to Melbourne 18 hours (and a day) later. As I said in my open “spring is springing” here in Oz and I feel as though I’ve been given a second opportunity to plant seeds this year. I will be here through the Southern Hemisphere summer and there is lots on in Melbourne in the way of music and shows in the parks, plays, concerts, and an abundance of outdoor activities. I’m taking writing classes again at Writers Victoria - furthering progress on something else I have in the works (more on this in 2026) as well as working with on a new leg of my business.

I am thrilled to be here and feel very grateful for this international life I’ve created and continue to just make up as I go. As things continue to escalate in the world, I remind myself daily that there is no certainty other than we all eventually leave this world and I want to make the best, and most of it that I can, while (hopefully) impacting the people I love and connect with in the most generous way possible.

Thanks so much for sticking with me. I’m wishing you peace, wherever this may find you.

A POSTSCRIPT

‘CALM IN THE CHAOS’

I’ve recently discovered this incredibly helpful lymphatic drainage-exercise practice and it has worked wonders in elevating my energy while calming my nervous system and clearing any foggy head symptoms.

Click Here

*you don’t need to have neck pain to reap the benefits. I’ve started doing this routine daily.

P.P.S. There will be some different types of posts in October. Some seasonally (northern hemisphere) appropriate storytelling that I’ve had much fun writing. Stay tuned.

In closing below is passage I have been contemplating, daily, as the news continues to be grim. It gives me hope for the world and humans so I thought I would share:

“The way of the cross is a complete reversal. It means the worst thing in your life, your cross, turns into the best thing that ever happened to you. By forcing you into surrender, into ‘death’, [your cross] forces you to become nothing to become as God*. Because God* too is no-thing.

At this time as far as the unconscious majority of humans is concerned, the way of the cross is still the only way. They will only awaken through further suffering, and enlightenment as a collective phenomenon, will be predictably preceded by vast upheavals. This process reflects the working of certain universal laws that govern the growth of consciousness and this was foreseen by some seers.” - Eckhart Tolle - The Power of Now

*feel free to substitute with Source or the Universe if God doesn’t work for you

Catch up on popular past posts here:

Day 2 of J’s visits starts early - today is our road trip.

When J confirmed his visit, I started throwing out ideas for our itinerary and one of the things we talked about right away?

A road trip.

Since this was J’s first visit to Scotland, but likely not his last, I was trying not to pack too many things into a week. I am definitely not a bucket-list traveler, moving from thing-to-place and checking them off the list with an ‘on to the next' mentality. Rather, getting immersed in one place, digging in to the local experience, is more the vibe. Edinburgh and the close surrounding areas, such as Leith and North Berwick, have more than enough to delight for a week’s visit but a day trip was calling as well.

Bonus: J has an international drivers license and is proficient in driving “on the other side” as I like to call it. I am NOT at all acquainted with driving here and a bit intimidated but I’m outgrowing that mindset and plan on learning.

One night, after one of our trip-planning chats, I whipped out my notes app and put together the following suggested day itinerary for us:

I love an ALL CAPS RESPONSE.

Plan sorted.

St. Andrews had been on my list as a destination to explore ever since my first, extended visit to Scotland early 2023. Several local friends, who I made on that first trip, had recommended St. Andrews as I place I would enjoy visiting and after reading up on it I enthusiastically agreed. However, St. Andrews is not easily accessible by public transport, requiring a train and (more than one?) bus and so I had not made it thus far. As part of the St. Andrews ‘experience’, friends, especially my food and wine biz friends, highly recommended a visit to the Kinneuchar Inn. The Kinneuchar Inn is not in St. Andrews, but is a 25-ish minute drive to a tiny town south. Without a car, not so much a doable day for me. But now that we were planning a road trip, highly doable.

Our day began early-ish, meeting up around 8:15 am. for coffee at a spot that was in between both of our flats. I had a bag full of pastries and a sandwich from our Lannan stop the day before to enjoy during our drive. Picking up the car at Edinburgh Waverly train station, just a 15-minute walk from our neighborhoods in New Town/Stockbridge, we enjoyed the quiet morning vibe, taking in the views of Arthurs Seat and Calton Hill in the distance.

Getting the car was super easy and I loved the Ford Puma that we were given. I was impressed with J not only driving on the left but also using a manual transmission! What a boss.

We hit the road, and were blessed with light traffic, in normally busy Edinburgh, early-ish on a Saturday morning, and enjoyed the easy flow out of town and onto the wider roads of the country.

There are a few routes you can take from Edinburgh to St. Andrews and I had mapped out a route that was closest to the sea. Taking the bridge out of town is always a treat and J was delighted with the Forth Bridge, a railway bridge and the world’s first major steel structure [and a UNESCO World Heritage site], which runs next to the cars bridge called Queensferry Crossing Bridge.

These two bridges are stunning welcomes to the road to St. Andrews and the gateway to the Highlands out of Edinburgh.

We fell into easy chatter, commenting on the beautiful surroundings, the rolling hills and specifically all of the different shades of green that Scotland affords. As should be expected with any road trip, we got side-lined while trying to find a coffee spot (I am a two-coffee in the morning gal), but we ended up driving through the charming village of Kirkcaldy, and honestly when you’re exploring a place as gorgeous as Scotland, I say trust the detours and embrace getting lost.

Arriving in St. Andrews, and taking in the stately slate grey stone houses, with blooming flowers spilling over the walls, and an air of impressiveness, J asks if St. Andrews is “posh”. Well, yes. I would say definitely.

St. Andrews Cathedral and Graveyard

Our first stop and order of business: exploring the ruins, and graveyard, of St. Andrews Cathedral. J had the cathedral plugged into maps but we could see the very top of the ruins from the top of the high street, beckoning to us.

I know my friends who have been reading for a while know my enthusiasm for graveyards and cemeteries* so visiting the St. Andrews Cathedral was particularly thrilling. The largest and greatest cathedral, building began in 1160 and work continued on it for the next 150 years. 150 YEARS. [Why don’t we make things with the same care and dedication in the modern world is a question I often ask myself while traveling.] Seeing pictures of this massive structure, sitting on the edge of the sea, was nothing compared to standing in its midst.

Beginning the exploration of the cathedral grounds found us in mostly cloudy, darkish skies, with gulls screaming overhead, and the smell of salt and sea permeating our senses. A perfectly moody day to walk amidst the dead.

We took our time walking through the graves, which had scaffolding and orange cones around many of them (protecting them or us, both maybe?) and reading the script cut into the stones. Interesting, that some of the scripts, were as sharp and fresh as if they had just been cut that week, and were from the 1600’s! Other stones had the eerie weathering of time and were indecipherable and resembled some kind of portal. A portal to another world or another time, perhaps? Likely both.

We stood before the remains of the grand cathedral that butts up against the cliff, with the sea in the background, tilting our heads farther and farther back to see the top, and I kept thinking how? How did they build this in the 1100’s? And as I turned towards the tower, I thought of the Lord of the Rings, and the eye of Sauron, which was very much the vibe, being both awe-inspiring and a bit scary somehow.

We meandered the grounds for some time before we came upon the oubliette**. Or was it a bottle dungeon***? Either way, this hole in the ground, with metal bars criss-crossed at the top, had the hairs standing all the way up on my arms and back of my neck. J was standing next to a couple, a man and woman, who bent far over it, looking down into the black, and the man said “You can’t even see to the bottom, can you?” and I had to resist slowly pulling J back. I couldn’t get close to the hole myself and I had no desire to look down into the darkness, as I felt its cursedness. I backed away, not turning my back to it until I was far enough from it to prevent something from following me home.

Leaving the cathedral grounds we turned towards the sea, and walking along the path, towards St. Andrews Castle, were delighted to see this ocean pool with a lone swimmer. Stunning.

Heading to view St. Andrews Castle, which we decide not to explore due to time, we can see the structure and grounds from the outside. As we are standing outside the castle entry, enjoying the views, I turn to see a gorgeous stone house, two stories, with lots of ivy and greenery running up and down its facade. There is a low-fenced, green grass garden that stretched on both sides of the front door and lots of blooming bushes with bright flowers. I’m wondering if it is an inn, when I spy, through the low slats of the fence, a dog. Well, I must go see the dog, of course. I walk over, calling to J that I will be back. As I get closer, the dog is lounging in the grass next to a man with gray hair and a pleasant smile. I think I asked him what his dogs name was, which is how our conversation with Jerry (or ‘Jer’ as we fondly refer to him here on out) begins. Skippy 2 is his dogs name, he tells me, speaking in what is surely a North American (US or Canada?) accent. Skippy 2 because when he was a boy he had the best dog, an Australian Shepherd, just like this one, and his name was Skippy. Since the first Skippy passed, decades ago, he continued to have Australian Shepherds, all excellent dogs, but only this one had spurred him to give him the name of his very first good boy.

I love this story and this man.

We continue to talk, as he asks me where I am from and we fall into easy conversation, which I am wont to do with people I just meet, and J is well used to. J wanders over, from his spot overlooking the castle, smiling, and I introduce him to Jerry. Jerry is originally from the US and has lived here, in St. Andrews, for 50 years now. The beautiful house, that I thought was an inn, is his home. He has worked in restoration and has a lot of interesting facts about the history of St. Andrews castle (and the grisly but captivating tale of the burning of a priest, whose body hung for weeks in the castle window just behind us); St. Andrews village and the houses that populate the village. He is a delight and I could have chucked the rest of my day and joined him in the garden happily had he invited us and we didn’t have plans. A bit regretfully, reluctantly, we bid farewell to Jerry, thanking him for chatting with us. He tells us to come back soon. We spend the rest of the day with ‘Jer’ popping up in our conversation often and fondly.

We take a look at our time and decide to hop to it to get to the Old Course before we have to get in the car to drive to our lunch spot, 26-minutes south of St. Andrews in Kilconquhar, Fife. Wandering through the narrow streets on our way back to the car, we are afforded glimpses of different St. Andrews University buildings. I would love to return to do a campus tour, as I’m fascinated by esteemed Universities of the UK. St. Andrews is very famous as the third-oldest University in the English speaking world AND is also famously known, to British royals fans, where Prince William met Kate Middleton, who is now the Princess of Wales. There are lots of references to that particular claim to fame in the village.

The Old Course is a highlight of our already rich visit. J had a career with the PGA and had never been to the ‘Old Course’, which is known as ‘the home of golf, and where the first game was played 600 years ago!

Visiting St. Andrews had even more appeal and meaning for him, but I was keen to see it myself. I was not prepared for the sheer beauty of the course and its placement by the sea.

The sea scape is vast next to the impeccable greens and there were many spectators sitting on the curbside to watch the golfers at the 18th hole. Steeped in history, stunningly beautiful, and iconic, I can understand why people come from all over the world to golf here.

Walking back to the car, we take in the shops and pubs on the high street, busy with weekenders, but not as busy as I would expect it will be in a month or two. I’m thankful that we were able to experience St. Andrews together on a not too crazy Saturday.

Reaching the puma, both of us are commenting on how hungry we are. I plug ‘Kinneuchar Inn’ into J’s GPS and wave good-bye to St. Andrews and to sweet Jer (for now).

Our [sublime] Kinneuchar Inn Experience

The road from St. Andrews to the tiny village of Kilconquhar is one dotted with many charming vistas: large fields of yellow flowers; ancient churches; low row houses crowding a curve in the lane; a huge stone barn with several handsome horses grazing in the adjacent grass; an estate with many outer houses and craggy stone walls…the list goes on and on. We run into a bit of misty rain that clears as quickly as it comes and we arrive in the village in no time, slightly early for our [late] lunch reservation of 2:30 pm. There is a church and graveyard directly across from the Inn and I am tempted to go explore but we are hungry and both eager for our experience to begin.

The Kinneuchar Inn has been know as one of the top restaurants in Scotland since it opened in 2019. As mentioned previously, I had been hearing about how wonderful it is from many Edinburgh friends and acquaintances, including restaurant owners and staff members, for over two years so it has been high on my list.

What a better time to go than with J on this reunion tour?

I adore a long lunch. A long lunch, with friends, losing time, enjoying the food, wine and conversation, with no one in a hurry and nowhere else to be, is a must in life.

A late lunch can also serve the purpose of lunch and dinner. Anticipating multiple courses here at the Kinneuchar Inn, I knew this timing would serve us well.

Rolling into the parking lot for the Inn, the weather changed, again. Sunny, a bit breezy, but warm-ish. We see the expansive patio and are slightly tempted to see if we can get an outside table. However, once inside the very charming dining room, we (smartly) decided to stick with our table that affords us a good view of the lovely nature outside, while being cocooned from the [changing] elements.

Settling in with the menu, we are eager to begin but in no rush. We are planning to share all of our food and decide on the following:

An appetizer to share

Two different first courses

Two different main courses

Oh, yes. And chips. Naturally.

Dessert is a definite but to be determined.

The wine by the glass list is intriguing and I adore the different size of glass offerings. They offer a 125 ml or 150 ml or a carafe. This is wonderful because being able to order smaller sizes allow me to explore different wines, to pair with the food, without overindulging.

We peruse the printed menu for awhile…but wait! There is also a chalkboard menu of ‘daily specials’ that is brought the table and leaned to the side for us to review and choose from. Changing daily, the menu heavily focuses on local produce and the chefs/owners work with local farmers and suppliers of meat and fish. Creating inventive dishes using the whole animal is something they are known for and I’m so intrigued by several offerings. After some discussion, we decide our order and put it in with our lovely server and just sit back and relax.

But, lunch. Lunch is simply the best. The antithesis of “fast food”, we have a perfectly timed dining experience that will span 3.5 hours, with every course exceeding our expectations in deliciousness.

Every single item we get is exceptional but at the end of lunch we both agree the stand-out dish is the one that might be most polarizing to some: the Ox Heart.

The Grilled Ox Heart with East Neuk Beetroot, Pickled Walnut and Horseradish is one of the most perfectly balanced and delicious dishes I have ever had in all my vast dining experience. This dish knocks both our socks off. To be honest, I almost ordered a round two.

As our main course dishes are cleared, we are one of three tables. The day has turned dark and there is now rain crashing into the windows, with a bit of wind whipped up: a good choice to stay inside. And perfect timing for dessert.

Dessert: one of the things we both clocked immediately on entering the dining room was the chalkboard sign on the wall announcing:

The French House Madeleines - Hot & Fresh - Baked to Order!

Well, yes please.

Our server knowingly presents me with the digestiv list: “a wee dram” is the headline of an abundant list of fortified libations. Yes please again. I trust our server to pick something for me and we both order coffee.

The coffee service is also a delight. No espresso, they do a French press to order and my coffee is delicious. The Madeleines are served, as advertised, hot and fresh and oh so tasty.

As we linger over our coffee and dessert, we are the last folks in the dining room and the evening staff has arrived to set up for dinner.

Someone, I think it is the owner, comes to see how we are and to assure us there is no rush. She says they are so happy we are having such a wonderful time. And we are.

From beginning to end, the service is warm and accommodating, friendly and personable and generous which is just as important to a dining experiences as incredible food.

Finally, though, we sadly prepare to go, as we are driving back to Edinburgh. We pay our bill (which is shockingly affordable - such good value) and bid adieu to the Kinneuchar Inn. For now. It is definitely in my plan to return and hopefully very soon.

Our drive back to Edinburgh is easy and lovely. Time passes swiftly, as I tell J a crazy story from my years in Tucson, during my early 30’s, one I haven’t thought about in many years and we are both laughing so hard we are almost crying. The best

Rainy Edinburgh and Nightcaps

We arrive back to Edinburgh to a much different scene that when we left. Hectic, busy and stormy skies. It is a Saturday night, around 6:30 pm, and Edinburgh is teeming with humanity. People everywhere, stepping off curbs, and sidewalks packed with people. We make it back to the car rental park without incident (thankfully) and say goodbye to the Puma. As we exit the park, the skies have opened and it is no longer mist but full-on rain. I try to get us an Uber but there are none to be had. I have my umbrella but it is of little use in the wind. We give in to the elements, walking in the rain, saying to each other: Ah, it’s just water and begin to embrace each soggy step.

I say this day calls for a nightcap and J agrees. Of course, I think of the Last Word, a gem of a basement cocktail bar on St. Stephens Street, in Stockbridge which lands in the middle of both of our flats. As we walk that way, the rain gets lighter and so do we. Now in no rush, we meander down the cobblestone streets, out of the hectic city and into the much quieter neighborhoods of New Town.

When we roll up to the Last Word, which lies below street level, I can see it is busy. I hope we can get a spot. We enter and see a set of dark rooms with stone walls; leather high-back chairs flanking low tables, facing a cheery fireplace; intimate corners, all lit by candlelight and a tiny bar with 4 high-top chairs, the Last Word is the very definition of cozy and perfect for this rainy night.

We are able to grab two seats at the bar and as I shake the rain off my hair and coat, I recognize the bartender from my last visit in autumn of 2024. He made me an absolutely delicious gin martini and so I think I will likely get that but I peruse the menus anyway. I start talking to him and after a few minutes I’m delighted he remembers me and remembers how he made my martini with a grapefruit rind on the rim, ice cold, naturally. J joins me and hearing about my drink, decides on the same and we order a wee dram of a special Scottish whiskey to share because why not?

As the rain continues to come down outside, people, and several dogs (they are welcome pretty much everywhere, which I adore) arrive and settle in for talk and libations, as others depart, heading for other cozy spots or to home. J and I take our sweet time with our drinks, chatting and reliving parts of our day, and once again talking of sweet Jer in St. Andrews - we wish he were with us to enjoy this whiskey. We are certain he would have a great story to go along with it.

And so ends Day 2 of our reunion - still throwing 6’s and loving life.

Days 3-6…coming soon.

Thanks so much for being here and reading Pied À Terre Life. I so appreciate all of you.

Tell me - have you visited Scotland? Are you keen to? I would love to know.

*Someone asked the difference between a graveyard and cemetery recently: a graveyard is typically associated with a church while a cemetery is a stand alone site, larger and with graves more spaced apart.

**an underground dungeon with only an opening at the top

***same as oubliette - cursed places

Check out Part 1 of Welcome to Edinburgh here:

I have the French doors open wide to the tiny balcony of my sweet flat in the bucolic Dean Park Mews in Edinburgh. Coffee in hand, I wander in and out of the doorway, looking out over the cobblestoned street, dappled in faint sunlight on this late May morning. I find a Radiohead Essentials playlist on Apple Music, connect it to my travel speaker (one of my must-haves for this travel life) and press play. As ‘Creep’ begins to play, I sip my coffee and look around the room, bright from the excellent skylights, my gaze lingering on three wrapped items on the low coffee table - welcome to Scotland and belated birthday gifts for my dear friend, Justin (J), who will arrive momentarily.

I go back out to the balcony, looking up and down the street which is still and quiet on this Friday morning, wondering which way the cab will come. Keeping an eye on the time since J texted he was in his car, he should arrive any minute. I can hardly believe that after 5 (plus) years of dozens of phone calls, hundreds of text messages, and many shared instagram posts, we will finally be reunited in person!

After meeting ,and becoming fast friends, in early 2019, and sharing many travel adventures, that would span several months, from Southeast Asia, to London, to Portland, Willamette Valley, and the Oregon Coast, Covid would put the brakes on our in-person gatherings in early 2020. However, our friendship continued to grow and expand through many calls, face-times, texts and emails: sharing films, laughs, shows, books, podcasts, music, food, wine and finally, our individual travels, as the world opened back up. I think about how special it is to make a true friend in this world during anytime of life, but most particularly as I have gotten older: this is a gift.

As I lean on the balcony, I hear the low hum of an engine to my right and see the tip of a car hood and instinctively I know, J is here. The black mini-van turns onto my street and stops just to the left of the balcony. The driver sees me leaning over the balcony, and I can see him gesturing towards me, mirroring my big smile. The side door to the van slides open and Justin steps out, looks up and says “Hello, my friend.”

“I’ll be right down!”

I step back inside, put my coffee mug on the table and head down the short staircase to the door. Stepping out onto the street and into a warm hug, I say “Welcome to Scotland!”

So begins a full week of adventure, delicious food and wine, long walks and conversations, an epic road trip, much laughter and just the joy of sharing a place I dearly love, with someone I dearly love.

DAY 1

Rolling 6’s

After getting inside with bags, hydration and a relaxing catch up of the travel day/night, with J just off the red-eye from New York, I think coffee and food are a good place to start the trip. J can’t get into his flat until the afternoon so we will leave his stuff at my place while we kick off the trip in style with a visit to our mothership, Dishoom.

Dishoom - our shared history

Talk of Dishoom has never waned much in the subsequent years since we first went together in June of 2019. In June 2019, J and I took an impromptu side-trip to London after completing our 4-months of travel in SE Asia, where we met. As we were wrapping up our last month, living in Kuala Lumpur (KL), Malaysia, soon we would be going our separate ways. I was going to be going to Europe for the summer and J was headed back to the US. One day, during our first week in KL, while J was on a quick trip to Vietnam, I was spending the morning looking for flights to Portugal, where I would live for the month of July. I was not finding anything appealing in price or duration of flight so, I decided to look at London as a destination and found a direct flight from KL for $500. A smoking deal. I started to concoct an idea for a brief stop in London and quickly found an EPIC 2-bedroom Airbnb in Soho, which is an excellent neighborhood, for an unreal [low] price for the last week of June (high season). I texted J, giving him the details and asking if he was interested in taking this adventure with me. I knew he had never been to London and I would love to show him my ‘greatest hits’ over 5 days. He responded almost immediately with a ‘YES’.

As I put together a plan/itinerary, multiple Dishoom stops were a MUST and J was excited as I had talked about Dishoom as one of my favorite restaurants in the world quite often during our travels.

About Dishoom: from Bombay with love. Dishoom is an independently opened British chain of Indian restaurants, founded in 2010 by co-founders Shamil and Kavi Thakrar. It was designed to match the Irani cafès popular in Mumbai in the 1960s. Each Dishoom is wonderful and unique in design and the menus are consistent in each. I highly recommend reading about Dishoom’s cafè development, know as cafè founding myths, here.

While on our London trip, we made it to two out of three Dishoom locations. Unfortunately, we got knocked flat with jet lag on the second afternoon and both of us slept through our alarms and dinner reservation…so we only made it for breakfast and snacks. Both a delight and a disappointment (that we made it to two locations but not for a proper dinner).

Since 2019, I have been to Dishoom many, many times, at different locations in London and the UK. I ate at the Kings Cross location (my favorite) three times in two days in 2023, which was the visit that changed things…where I was gifted my first Dishoom keychain.

I can’t talk too much about the keychain. You cannot purchase the Dishoom keychain. A keychain is bestowed upon you by a staff member. I did not know anything about the keychain until I was gifted one at Kings Cross but here is what I know now…if you present your keychain while you are dining, you offered a game of chance: a roll of the dice in golden cup, on a large, almost mystical game board.

I’ve rolled the dice MANY TIMES since receiving my keychain (I actually have two different keychains, as I was also gifted one in Edinburgh). To roll the dice is an occasion. The servers are delighted when you present your keychain and they bring the game board and the cup with the dice to your table. The dice make a loud ringing noise as you shake the cup, holding your breath, and dump the dice. If you roll a six, your entire bill is free.

I have never rolled a six.

Back to Edinburgh and day one with J - we head out the door of my flat and the walk from Stockbridge to Dishoom is one of many delights. The city is in full bloom, with gorgeous colors of deep and bright greens in the trees and bushes, potted flowers blooming on every doorstep and patio, offset by the deep gray of the stone townhomes and cobblestones making up the streets. Charm is everywhere you look. We pass by several of my favorite spots in Stockbridge: crossing over the Water of Leith; St Stephens St church; Circus Lane…and as we wind our way up Dundas Street, we reach the top and stop to take in the view of the majestic Edinburgh Castle. Turning on George Street, I point out Calton Hill in the distance and as we reach St. Andrews Square, we can see one of my most photographed and favorite monuments, the Scott Monument, patina’d a black gunmetal gray. A satisfying mini-tour on the way to breakfast is a bonus.

As we enter Dishoom, our senses take over. Everything at Dishoom is intentional - from the music; to the huge open kitchen on the first floor entry; to the incense that is so unique and intoxicating and that mixes perfectly with the smell of the food cooking. We are ravenous.

J lets me lead and I order my favorites: the Bun Maska (fluffy grilled buttery buns) and “endless” Chai is always a must. The Dishoom Chai is magic. I never was interested in chai until I had the Dishoom chai. After experiencing the Dishoom chai for the first time in 2017, I thought to myself “Oh, I love chai!” And went on to order chai at one or two other places out in the world. But I do not love chai. I only love Dishoom Chai. And when I go for breakfast I typically drink 3-4 glasses, at least. Chai is served until 4 pm and you can have as much as you like and is wonderful. J has talked about the chai since 2019 and is a huge fan. Will it be as good as he remembers? Yes, indeed it is.

We also get an egg naan - another favorite. These items are my standard breakfast order and do not disappoint.

We spend time talking about a million things, while relaxing in the Permit Room, the best kinds of conversations that you have with good friends, about everything and nothing. One thing we DO specifically talk about is our plan for a long, late lunch/early dinner here at Dishoom later in the trip, starting to plot our menu orders. We take our eating, drinking and snacking very seriously.

Time passes and after we have had our third (or fourth?) glass of chai after finishing our delicious breakfast, we decide to move from our very comfortable booth and head out into town for some other stops. As the bill arrives I realize I almost forgot to present my key chain. J has heard a LOT about the keychain but has never seen it or experienced it so I want him to enjoy the game of chance. A manager brings the board to the table and says “Ok, who is feeling lucky?” I tell her that J just arrived and he is the guest and needs to roll. She hands him the golden cup and he rolls….

A SIX!!!!!!

I will tell you, I shouted and almost turned our table, I was so excited!!! The manager claps for us and says your bill is taken care of.

Wow.

Lannan Bakery

Since we are past noon, my plan is for us to swing by Lannan Bakery. Lannan had just opened their doors in the late summer of 2023 and I had my first experience at the bakery on my second extended visit to Edinburgh in autumn of 2023. I had read a lot about Lannan, on Instagram mostly, through friends I had made on my first visit to Edinburgh, singing the praises of the owner/baker, Darcie, and for the delicious pastries she makes. Lannan exploded in popularity and now can have queues up to 2 hours. However, this year, they have had an expansion and can produce a bit more volume. I feel like I personally cracked the code of when to go to have little (or no) wait time and still get my favorite items: after 1 pm.

J and I take a different route to Lannan, which is down in Stockbridge, so I can show him a bit more of my favorite city. We walk through neighborhoods of private gardens, dense with folliage and stately grey stone townhomes with large picture windows affording us glimpses of the lives inside. I often fantasize about a ‘New Town’ (which this part of Edinburgh is known as) homes tour, as I wish I could see inside these gorgeous places. So far, this has not manifested for me, but I continue to dream.

As we turn towards Hamilton Place, I can see the line at Lannan is quite short and I am well-pleased. J is a big pastries fan and has heard a lot (and received many photos from me) about Lannan and is happy to queue. The time passes quickly and we wait maybe 10-15 minutes, and then are inside the small but charming space and greedily taking in the deliciousness in the case. The staff is lovely and calm - it is a testament to Darcie, the owner, that they are friendly and chill and don’t feel the need to rush because of the queue. It feels very fresh and non-transactional. We have a nice chat with the staff as I order my favorites: a baguette (the best I’ve had outside of Paris); two cardamom buns; two pan au chocolat (also the best I’ve had outside Paris); and the Jamon and cornishons sandwich (3 of these for the weekend). Quite. The. Haul.

Around the corner from Lannan is my favorite neighborhood. A small conclave with a lovely private park in the middle. Last autumn I loved walking here at dusk when the windows were aglow and I was afforded lovely views of the living rooms or kitchens - yes I am a bit of a peeping tom but respectfully and from a distance. J and I walk through this neighborhood, me pointing out the two (or three?) homes that I wouldn’t mind owning for myself. Taking this way leads down to the Water of Leith path and the day has turned to bright sun and the rays are sparkling off the water as we look into the expansive backyards of the townhomes that sit above the burn. I love Scotland in all weather but Edinburgh is showing off it’s sunny side today and I am delighted in the timing of J’s arrival.

During our glorious walk, J and I have developed a game plan for the evening: tonight we are going to hang in at my apartment so that we can be fresh for our big day we have planned tomorrow (stay tuned for Day 2!). Impressively fighting jet lag and staying up until at least 9 pm is part of J’s plan, and I make the suggestion of the following at-home menu: lots of snacks, a Lannan sandwich, salad and some wine, of course. J gives a thumbs up and we head to our next stop:

Communique Wines

Communique Wines was a lovely addition to Stockbridge when I returned to the neighborhood for another extended stay in September of 2024. Opening in July 2024, at an excellent location on West Circus Place, I was drawn in to Communique by the elegant green storefront, and by my love of wine, of course. I immediately knew that this shop was a stand-out and something special by seeing the selection of Alessandro Viola wines on the shelf - an Italian producer I am obsessed with that can also be very hard to find.

Since my first visit to Communique, the owner, Ali Graham, has become a good friend and I often swing by just to say hi, chat and see what’s new or what he is jazzed about (which 9 times out of 10 leads to a purchase). Ali’s 25 years in the wine business, and his most excellent palate for exciting wines, has made Communique my favorite wine shop in the city.

Excited to introduce Ali and J, who I had told about each other of course, they fall into a discussion of the cool whiskies that Communique also stocks along with the wines, craft beers and a selection of vermouth and sherry. It is an incredible shop, full of delightful tempting libations and a warm vibe that encourages exploration and questions. Ali is also a huge “foodie” and he highly recommended a couple of the spots we are going for dinner (that I would not have know about without our fun weekly conversations) and am very excited to visit. More on that coming soon.

We buy some yummy wines (Alessandro Viola, yes) and now have come almost full circle, as my flat is only a 7-minute walk from Communique (dangerous!), and we wind our way back to Dean Park Mews.

J collects his luggage and I see him off to get the keys to his apartment, get settled and have a bit of a rest. I spend the next couple of hours running to George Mewes Cheeses (only a 4 minute walk from my flat - also dangerous) to grab the Blackmount Cheese which is an aged goat from Scotland that is so SO good. I buy more snacks, including crisps and crackers and sparkling water to set us up for a relaxed and easy evening of food, wine and conversation.

Later that evening, which feels like afternoon with the sun shining until at least 10 pm this time of year, J returns. We have the doors and windows open and I am sure my neighbors can hear the low murmurs of non-stop conversation, shouts of laughter and the distinct clink of glasses as we cheers to being reunited and a week of fun ahead of us.

And as the sun sets on day one, I am filled with joy and gratitude for such a marvelous beginning.

Thanks so much for being here and for reading my travel journal on a most anticipated and lovely reunion.

Stay tuned for days 2-6 coming soon.

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The sun has already risen but it is only 5:44 a.m. when I open my eyes and glance at the clock from the coziness of my bed. I sleep with the bedroom shutters open so that I can wake naturally, with the light, instead of by alarm. A good excuse to leave my iPhone out of the bedroom.

All is quiet and I can see it is slightly cloudy right now with a bit of bright blue sky visible, a delicious morning to wake up to. After a moment I stretch, fully awake, and I know the outdoors is calling to me, before my morning qi gong, before yoga, I need to get outside.

I fling back the covers and pull on my sweatshirt and yoga pants while Purdey, my springer-spaniel companion, excitedly jumps off the bed. I look at her and say “let’s go.”

Downstairs I put on my shoes and coat and add my knitted cap as it is still chilly these spring mornings on the coast of Scotland. I kneel down to get Purdey into her harness, which takes a moment as she is wriggling with delight. She loves our morning jaunts as much as I do. Maybe more? Who’s to say?

I open our big wood door to go outside, and there on the stone step sits a small bottle of ice-cold milk. The milk deliveries delight me - they take me back in time to my childhood in New England and the normalcy back then of your milk being delivered to your door (and there being a ‘milk man’), not as something unusual or extra but a normal part of how the world worked. Is it special here, I wonder? Or just something that has lingered on and is the way the world works here?

I put the milk bottle off to the side of the steps, deeper in the shade, where it will definitely stay quite cold while we walk. I turn left and head to the main road, a lane really, for a slow stroll down to the sea and beach, which is only a 3 minute walk. Each day this view lights me up inside. The sparkly sea stretching out before me, framed by the stone walls on each side of the road and the overhanging greenery from trees and bushes just beginning to burst with color, becoming more lush by the days that are alternating rain and sun.

As we reach the small promenade by the beach, I stop and take a deep breath of the invigorating salty air. I look up and down the beach and see no one else is out yet. We have the spot to ourselves for the moment.

I can clearly see Edinburgh today across the sea - the distinctive shapes of the grand castle and Arthur’s Seat and the modern buildings of Leith. The tide is out (is it going out or coming in? I don’t quite know.) and the rocks create tide pools and I spot our Great Heron friend who lives in and around these waters. I watch him slowly and silently stalking his breakfast in the shallow waves. I see him here, in the low tide, and more often up in the creek that runs down into the tiny boat harbor, next to the field full of bunnies and sheep, and I never get tired of admiring him.

I wander a bit, enjoying the sun now full above the cover and the three stone houses that seem to jut out into the sea. I think I have taken a dozen pictures of this view in the last few weeks but I take one more now - to remember when I’m gone.

But now I’m ready to head back to the house to get Purdey her breakfast and for me to start my day so we start our walk up the hill. As we get closer, I hear another sound above the birdsong and identify it as the grinding of bike chains. A boy, wearing big headphones, with a big carrier bag slung across his body, wizzes by me with a wave. I watch him head down my street and slow as he reaches into the bag and expertly throws a newspaper that lands on the front steps of the house next to mine.

I watch the paperboy disappear down the street, give Purdey a long pet and walk up our steps, grabbing our cold bottle of fresh milk, and go inside to officially start the day.

2 (strong) Recommendations

I have two recommendations for your ‘calming pursuits’ this week and these are two things that keep giving me delight and I am thrilled to share.

The film ‘Perfect Days’. I would like to say to just trust me on this one and go into it knowing nothing but since I have a recommend on how to watch I will give the film synopsis here:

“Hirayama feels content with his life as a toilet cleaner in Tokyo. Outside of his structured routine, he cherishes music on cassette tapes, reads books and takes photos. Through unexpected encounters, he reflects on finding beauty in the world.”

I LOVED this perfect film. Watching it created so many wonderful emotions in me: I kept smiling and then crying a bit and back to smiling. Most of all, I felt a deep contentment when I finished watching and the film has stayed on my mind as I move through the world.

I recommend watching it in its original language, japanese, instead of choosing a dubbed version. I always watch films or shows in their original language and use subtitles and it just makes for a more authentic experience.

I watched ‘Perfect Days’ on Hulu.

The book ‘Things Become Other Things’ A Walking Memoir by Craig Mod.

‘A transformative 300-mile walk along Japan’s ancient pilgrimage routes and through depopulating villages inspires a heartrending remembrance of a long-lost friend, documented in poignant, imaginative prose and remarkable photography.’

I cannot recommend this book enough. I did not know what to expect as I had never heard of this writer before (I am a super fan now) but the description grabbed me immediately as I am such a huge walker. Walking has long been my “safe place” since I was a child and no matter how short or long, walking creates calm inside of me. Walking has also been such an important part of my travel life, as it provides a point of view of new places that you cannot get from a car, bus or train, and I spend hours walking and exploring my cities every week.

The writing in this book is so beautiful, you can see in the picture above that I have bookmarked many pages.

“….and in that expansion I had new space. There’s a word in Japanese that sums up this feeling better than anything in English: yoyū. A word that somehow means: the excess provided when surrounded by generous abundance. It can be applied to hearts, to wallets, Sunday afternoons, and more.”

I didn’t know, until reading this book, that I have been experiencing so much yoyū in my life. What a gift to be able to put a word to my feelings.

I linked to Craig Mod’s website. The book was just released in mid-May and I’m sure you can get it at your local bookseller.

Both of the above recommendations have brought a deep calling in me to return to Japan. I spent 5 weeks living in Kyoto, Japan in 2019 while I was traveling around the world, living in a different country every month for 9 months. Japan was indescribably wonderful. I felt as though I was living my best life there, in Kyoto, and spent the entire time there. There is so much more to explore and in particular ‘Things Become Other Things’ has lit a bit of fire inside me. Stay tuned….

That is what I have for you this week, sweet friends. Take good care and thank you so much for being here. I am so grateful for all of you!

There is an unexpected soft rain this morning that is fresh and lovely.

The kind of rain that doesn’t even make a sound on the skylights in the kitchen of my temporary home but one that I can see falling when I look carefully towards the sky, seeing it fall against the backdrop of grey stone rooftops and chimney stacks and the brilliant green of the tree canopy. I see the drops clinging to the bright green leaves of the bushes that grow in the garden of my stone house by the sea. As I look out the window, I think that I am lucky to have this generous back garden, abundant in lush vegetation and grass and space. A wonderful space for birds to visit, bees to buzz around and sit outside on a sunny day. But for now, it’s time for my morning walk.

As I head towards the front hall I think, unexpected rain? I laugh a bit at that because is rain ever UNexpected in Scotland? Even though local folks I meet are apt to apologize for the rainy weather, I am quick to tell them that I love it.

I put on my shoes and coat, attach Purdey’s lead to her harness and head out the door while the light is still soft and grey as it is in the early morning, walking towards the beach. The rain is very soft, almost a mist but slightly heavier, as it dampens both our coats - mine made of some sturdy UK fabric and hers of soft, black fur. The quiet is palpable, no cars, no urban sounds whatsoever, and wraps around me like a cozy blanket

The hour and rain sees the waterfront deserted and ours alone for this moment. I take a deep breath, inhaling the salty air that is laced with a bit of woodsmoke, and listen to the morning chatter of birds.

This is how I start my day in a wee village on the coast of Scotland.

I have been here for 2 weeks.

2 weeks ago, I left the bustle of Edinburgh to change locations for a month. Aberdour is not too far in miles yet it feels much farther, in time and place. A simpler, gentler time. The road from Edinburgh took me out of the city and over the stunning Forth Road Bridge, gleaming white over the sea, running parallel to the Forth Bridge, which is a historic railway bridge and the first steel structure in Britain. Both are symbols of Scottish engineering and craftsmanship. Both are awe-inspiring.

Hi Friends,

I’m trying something new here with my vignettes, a mini travel-life journal so to speak and have more drafted to share in the coming weeks. I hope you enjoy them.

Spring is on full display today as I am finalizing this post and the sun and salty sea air are calling me. I hope wherever this finds you, you are also able to enjoy some time with your face lifted to the sun.

I have collected some calming things to share with you this week. Do let me know if any of them resonate or you have things to add.

Books

Books have long been some of my most comforting companions throughout my life. A story often told as I was growing up, amongst my extended family, was that I was surrounded by books in my crib, even before I could actually read, and would spend time just happily turning the pages. I often wonder what my baby-brain was thinking then. As I grew, books were my portal to other worlds, sparking joy, and also an escape from dark times. At an early age, I had quite a large library and quickly developed favorites that I would read over and over again. While I love reading new books, there is something very calming and comforting about a revisiting a good story and the characters that feel like friends.

Here are some books I recommend for escape, comfort, adventure…

Piranesi by Susanna Clarke

I knew nothing about this book when I began it. A strong recommendation from my son, Zach, always has me moving a book up in my queue and he told me it was best to just begin without reading anything about the book. This is exactly how I would recommend you dive into this fantastical book as well. I can’t express how much I love this book and there is a line in it that I repeat often in my head. If you give it a go, please let me know your thoughts. Buy here.

Circe by Madeline Miller

This is a book that I felt physically drawn to while I was book shopping at a bookstore in Florence, Italy in early January 2022. There are a few bookstores that have a nice english section in Florence and I wanted a physical book (as opposed to reading on my ipad at that time) so I went shopping without a book in mind. Since Circe had been out for awhile it wasn’t on display and I wasn’t looking for it so was there a higher power involved? Maybe! I inhaled this book and love it so much. Explore here.

The House in the Cerulean Sea by TJ Klune

Another recommendation from my son, Zach, I fell hard for this wonderful, enchanting, magical story and it’s characters. I wish I could read it all over again for the first time. This is also a “banned book” in parts of the US likely for its compassion and empathy. Buy it here.

Little Women by Louisa May Alcott

I cannot explain what a gift this book was to me when I opened it on a Christmas morning in the 70’s. On that Christmas, my aunt Rosalie gifted me this incredible edition of the classic story that was huge, with gold tipped pages and gorgeous illustrations. Unfortunately, I read that book until it fell apart (no exaggeration). I revisit the tales of the March family often, at least every 2 or 3 years, but especially when I’m feeling lost or scared in life. Buy it here.

Music

I’m only going to link one playlist this week. This is one I have had on repeat while I work, especially while writing. I have also used this playlist to meditate. I adore Hayao Miyazaky and everything he stands for.

Ghibli for Sleep

Listen Here

Film

I could create a long list of films that comfort me. Next to books, movies were my other steadfast friends, and comforts, growing up. My obsession with films continued into adulthood and while my son was growing up you could often find us at the movie theater on the weekends together.

Pride and Prejudice - BBC Version

For today I am sharing one of my all-time top comfort watches: the BBC series version of ‘Pride and Prejudice’ with Colin Firth and Jennifer Ehle. Considered “the best version” by some, I will say that I am one of those in that camp.

I owned this version on VHS tapes (6 tapes!) and turned to this story often, getting lost in the ups and downs of Elizabeth and Darcy and all the Bennetts. I have a very vivid memory around this film/series. I would say my son was 10 and we lived in Tucson, Arizona. I had come down with bronchitis and was quite sick and in bed. I had been napping and heard a knock on my bedroom door. Zach came in with a bowl of soup and some toast he had made me. He put it carefully on the bed and then went and got the box of VHS tapes of ‘Pride and Prejudice’ and said “Should I start this for you?” I cry just remembering this.

Spirited Away

If you have never watched Spirited Away, I highly recommend this classic from Hayao Miyazaky. One of my very favorites of his magical films, I dare say it will transport you and have you seeing the world differently. I carry the art from a scene in the film that touched me deeply. The quote that goes with it is written in every journal I begin now as a reminder of the power we hold.

Thanks so much for reading Pied Á Terre Life. I so appreciate all of you!

Until next time.

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Hi Friends,

Welcome back to another Calm in the Chaos post. How are you this week? I hope that you are able to find some quiet and calm for yourself during these hectic times.

I am currently in Edinburgh, Scotland, where I landed at the beginning of March. And now it is April! I honestly cannot believe that March has passed by so quickly. It seems to have gone in a blink of an eye. Edinburgh has been a whirlwind of weather: from gorgeously sunny days, with the bluest of skies, to crazy wind and an evening of rain that was a literal deluge - all in one day! I love it here though and the changing weather both keeps me on my toes and life in general interesting (however, getting caught in a soaking rain, that was blowing INTO me, last Friday while running errands unprepared was chilling to the bone). The wonderful souls that inhabit this city, both in physical form and in spiritual (lots of ghosts here in Scotland), are so welcoming and engaging, I can say Edinburgh feels more and more like a home for me.

Spring here finds lots of trees and flowers blooming, everything is stunningly green and the air smells so fresh, especially after the rains. Edinburgh is a completely charming and stunning city in all weather and seasons. I absolutely love being here and just extended my stay in Scotland. I will be moving to a new area, not too far away, on the west coast, right on the sea in mid-April. Stay tuned for more about that in a couple of weeks. For now, I am still here, in Edinburgh proper and soaking up each day, balancing long walks with work projects and socializing with the friends I’ve made.

I have a few calming things to share with you this week. I hope there is something inspiring and/or useful for you here.

Qi Gong (with LuChin):

I continue to really enjoy expanding my Qi Gong practice with LuChin, who has an excellent channel on YouTube. This link is for LuChin’s particular practice for morning stiffness and I have used it both in the morning upon waking and other times in the day when I have been at my laptop too long. Qi Gong is so good for getting what I call ‘fresh energies” in to my body and clearing the fog from my brain. LuChin has a lovely, sunny disposition that makes me smile as well.

Slow Sundays:

When my son was growing up we had a practice on (most) Sundays that included no television or computers (this was in the early aughts so no smart phones existed thankfully) but other kinds of activities that could include: reading; gardening; playing music (Zach); games; cooking and entertaining. We called it Slow Sunday or Sunday Suppers when we would have guests over for a big, progressional dinner. I was so touched when I discovered that my son incorporated this into his later college years when he lived in a house with other theater and arts students. Some of my best memories in life are of these ‘slow Sunday’ activities.

I still enjoy a slow Sunday, no matter where I am. One of the things I’ve been incorporating into my present day slow Sunday is no social media. I’m not always successful but I’m working on it. This past Sunday I took many walks, read my latest book ‘Intermezzo’ by Sally Rooney, made delicious food and sat on the stoop with coffee talking to my (extremely delightful) neighbors and their wonderful children and enjoying the mild, sunny weather. I was inspired by this article that was a “just trust me” in Anne Helen Petersens latest newsletter (which is the best).

Golden Hour - Kacey Musgraves - Top 100 Albums (US-Apple list)

I love to listen to music. My grandmother had a huge wood paneled stereo system and would play albums when I would visit or stay with them. Throughout all of my childhood and up until I was 18, I would stay with my grandparents (and then my grandmother when my grandfather passed when I was 14) many times a month. My grandparents house was as much (or more, to be honest) my home than my parents house. My grandmother loved music and we actively listened to albums together, sometimes singing along or even dancing but just as often sitting in the living room and listening.

Slow Sundays are a perfect time for actively listening to music. This past Sunday’s first album was Golden Hour by Kacey Musgraves. I had actually never listened to this album until summer 2024. I was living in Paris, France for two months and I was staying in a charming, sun-dappled flat with a lovely front room where the sun streamed through the window and the cool summer breezes would waft the curtains just so….one Sunday I was called to find “new music”. The Top 100 Albums of all-time came up and Golden Hour called to me. Not only had I never listened to this album but I didn’t recall ever really listening to Kacey Musgraves. Wow. I was hooked immediately. It is a beautiful album and I loved every song. No skips here.

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5-Minute Interaction:

If you don’t know what I mean by this, I have an audio post that covers 5-minute interactions and their benefits here.

I was out running a quick errand one early morning in my neighborhood of Murrayfield, in Edinburgh and needed some bicarbonate of soda (laundry) so took a walk to the only grocery store, a Tesco Express. Now, Tesco Express is not where I do my grocery shopping but is good in a pinch. While I was there for the bicarbonate of soda I decided to grab a few other “essentials”. I was in the dairy section and could suddenly not remember if Scotland has half and half. I looked around and saw a staff member stocking an aisle and went up to ask him about it. When I inquired if they carried half and half, he looked at me silently for a moment and then said “what do you mean?” And I knew that indeed Scotland doesn’t have half and half. But I explained what I was looking for and he said “oh no, we don’t have that.” I said no problem and thanked him while I looked at my milk options. A few seconds later he came back up to me and asked me more about half and half and asked “They have that - half milk and half cream - for sale in the US?” And I said indeed we do! It’s a thing. We started talking for a few minutes about it and I don’t know, this conversation just delighted me. He was genuinely interested and very engaged and so was I. He was super helpful and asked me if I needed anything else or if I did to just come get him. It was a lovely interaction that just brightened my day (and hopefully his).

My highlighted Eckhart Tolle quote for this week (and month and foreseeable future):

“If you can recognize, even occasionally, the thoughts that go through your mind as simply thoughts, if you can witness your own mental-emotional reactive patterns as they happen, then that dimension is already emerging in you as the awareness in which thoughts and emotions happen - the timeless inner space in which the content of your life unfolds.

The stream of thinking has enormous momentum that can easily drag you along with it. Every thought pretends it matters so much. It wants to draw your attention completely.

“Every thought pretends it matters so much.” YES.

Reminding myself daily to not take my thoughts seriously is an effort that is well worth it. Not easy.

That’s what I have today. I hope you find something inspiring or helpful or perhaps just makes you smile.

Sending you all lots of love this week.

Take good care.

Until next time.

Hi Friends,

How are you this week? If you are in a spot that observes Daylight Savings, which happened this past weekend, then you might be feeling a bit uplifted to have more light at the end of the day. Having more light has already affected my walks this week in not trying to race out the door at 3:30 p.m. in order to get in a good “evening” walk before it is dark! As I am typing this, it is 5:45 p.m. and the sky is still full light. This lengthening of days is a little thing that is also a big thing and has a nice positive effect on daily life, no?

Life lately, has been a transitioning time for me, as I moved again. Right now, I am back in one of my favorite places in the world: Scotland. Edinburgh to be exact.

Leaving Great Malvern, UK, where I had been since late January, was a little bittersweet. My first time visiting that area of the UK, I was completely enchanted by Great Malvern, which was a sweet and cozy spot to ‘winter’. Beauty. Art. Welcoming and generous locals who made me feel immediately part of the community. Glorious walks in nature. Excellent graveyards. And a storied history. I am so grateful for the slice of life I spent there and I have a feeling I will be back. Perhaps in a different season, though I would not object to winter. We will see what unfolds…

The day I left was sunny and warm - fake spring had descended on Great Malvern - and I arrived early to the train station to sit outside and wait. Getting from Great Malvern to Edinburgh is so easy by rail. I adore a good train ride and from Great Malvern station I had a quick trip to Birmingham to change trains and go on directly to Edinburgh Waverly. I left at 10:30 a.m. and was in Edinburgh by 4 p.m. A very scenic and comfortable ride, relaxed even though the train was packed with rugby fans traveling to Edinburgh for one of the biggest matches of the year.

Getting off the train and emerging from Waverly station, right in the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, in the center, in the warm late winter sun had me taking a deep breath and sighing it out in pleasure. The city is so gorgeous and has an wonderful energy that is a bit hard to describe.

I headed by cab to where I was staying in Stockbridge, New Town, for the long weekend. I have stayed in Stockbridge on my last 3 visits to Edinburgh, which have lasted 6 weeks to 2 months each time. I adore Stockbridge and know it well and it offers so much of what I love: wonderful walks, a bustling energy, parks, great shops and restaurants, fantastic people and stunning architecture. But this time, my long stay is going to be in a different part of town but I wasn’t moving into that house until the following week so wanted to kick off my time in Stockbridge.

I will be writing a dedicated post about my absolutely stellar experience at my short-term weekend flat in Stockbridge. Honestly, this incredible spot has shot up to my top 3 stays in all my world-wide travels. My flat was so gorgeous, calming, snd wonderfully thought out I wanted to spend ALL of my time in the flat. It was a perfect sanctuary as well, during a very busy weekend in Edinburgh (due to the rugby). I felt like it was meant and I enjoyed my 4 days immensely.

The next 5 weeks has me excited to be staying in a different part of Edinburgh and exploring the city from this view point. I am in an area called Murrayfield and I am already loving my neighborhood. There are many wonderful “walks” from every direction of my house but in particular I am only an 8-minute walk from my door to the Water of Leith, which can take me to Stockbridge in 35 minutes of gorgeous trails on the burn (river) and all the way to sea in Leith in 2 hours (my pace). Edinburgh also has wonderful public transportation with an excellent bus and tram system. Easy to enjoy all the charm and deliciousness of this great city.

As I am editing this post, I am looking out the window of my new office, again blessed with a gorgeous view (see below), and feeling very calm and lucky to be here. I am thankful. More on adventures in Edinburgh soon.

For the remainder of today’s post I offer up a few things that have calmed me that you might consider for your weekend/upcoming week. I hope one of them speaks to you and offers some calm - enjoyment - inspiration.

Dark Sky Sanctuary - I discovered these ‘Dark Sky’ places and what they mean through Anne Helen Petersens excellent substack, Culture Study, to which I have been a paid subscriber for a few years now. I have fallen down a Dark Sky hole so to speak and want to visit, volunteer, support these wonderful places. Sanctuary indeed.

New Qi Gong - I had a realization recently that while I love my daily qi gong video (which I shared in an earlier post) I found myself recently going through the motions a bit while my mind wandered a lot, which negates most of the benefits of qi gong. So, I put in my journal I would love to find a new practice to change it up and one that suited me and where I am in life. And wow the Universe delivered!

QiYoga with LuChin. I love this woman. She has many videos with excellent practices of qi gong alone or combined with yoga. Since introducing her videos into my daily routine I have felt a new energy. I am definitely present because I’m learning new movements and how they help my body and mind.

The Power of Now - Eckhart Tolle’s writing and teachings continue to be a GIFT to me during these heightened times (and daily onslaught of alarming happenings). I have two things to share with you this week from Eckhart.

This short video

This passage from ‘The Power of Now’ that I have been applying consistently no matter what is coming up and finding it works.

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Ear Massage: to calm your mind and body (and vagus nerve regulation)

Set a timer for 20 seconds for each part of the ear for one minute total.

Start at the top of your ear and shake the ear firmly; move down to the middle of the ear massaging all around the area; end with your earlobe, really pulling on it hard but not so it hurts. Do each ear individually.

I have been doing this 3 or 4 times a day as a break from working on the computer and it has been so helpful and very calming. Another good one for waking up in the middle of the night too. It has helped me go back to sleep fairly quickly.

A Fun and Joyous Video: I have had this on repeat watch over the last 3 weeks

Robyn and David Byrne Live at SNL 50

This video and song has me getting up out of my chair and dancing, which I highly recommend. It has helped me literally shake off feelings of overwhelm and anxiousness in the moment.

Give a watch and listen. I hope you love it as much as I do.

Or put on your favorite dance tunes and give over for a few minutes. I am here dancing with you….

Thanks so much for being here and reading.

I’m wishing you the very best weekend and week ahead.

Take care. Until next time.

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Hello Friends,

Welcome back to another post of Calm in the Chaos. Unsettling times continue, I am sad to say, and I continue to gather and share things that I hope are soothing and that you can apply to your life as you like.

The first thing on my list this week is the word Meraki. I discovered this word around the time that the idea for this feature, Calm in the Chaos, started to take hold in my mind.

Meraki definition: create or do something with soul, creativity and/or love while leaving a piece of yourself in the work that you do.

When I found it, somewhere, not sure where, I thought it was beautiful and wrote it and highlighted the word and definition in my journal.

As I was flipping through my journal last week while prepping this post, the highlight popped out to me and I realized this, my writing here on substack, is my Meraki. Or at least one of them.

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Calming Things To Consider This Weekend

One of the things that is continuously calming, for me, is walking in nature. And right now that nature is in Great Malvern, UK. I am still absolutely loving Great Malvern - as I am writing this, from my office space in my flat, I can see the skies have cleared from a moody, grey, misty & windy day to reveal the lightest of pink and purple skies and an elegantly chill sunset (less blazing and more of a gentle fade). I took a very long walk today, towards the hills which look so lushly green from all the rain, amplified with the backdrop of a cloudy sky. As I walked I noticed the hills were dotted with white puffs, which turned out to be very fluffy sheep, coming into focus as I got closer. On my return, I always, always walk through my local graveyard and every time I find a new tombstone to investigate. Below is a picture of one of my favorites, tilted sideways with time and gravity but looking like it was freshly inscribed yesterday instead of over 100 years ago.

Eckhart Tolle - the Power of Now

Do you believe that things “find you” when you need them most? I would say that about Eckhart Tolle’s The Power of Now.

Now, I have known OF Eckhart Tolle and his teachings for many years. But I had never read his books or given focused time to his teachings. I cannot say how I might have responded or ingested them before now but I feel like now is likely when I needed them most. Like most things that impact me profoundly, his work found me in an unexpected way. If you will indulge me in this story… which begins with, I am fascinated by astrology. In the last few years, my astrology exposure has grown, and I especially love learning how the planets were positioned during major historical events throughout time. And how planet positions and movements could be related to both those events in time and what is happening in the world right now. One of my favorite new substacks, Kevin Garland’s ‘The Weekly Stars’, which I discovered last year, is SO GOOD. [I highly recommend starting with his post “We Need To Talk About 2025”.] While reading one of his current posts, Kevin referenced how, given our times and what is (potentially) to continue coming our way, it might be a good time to revisit Eckhart Tolle ‘The Power of Now’. I was immediately called to buy the book online and DOVE IN. Again, I will say that books, art, people…find you when you need them most and I feel that I needed this book. It is such a gift.

Excerpt from The Power of Now

“If there is no joy, ease or lightness in what you are doing, it does not necessarily mean that you need to change what you are doing. It may be sufficient to change the how. “How” is always more important than “what”. See if you can give much more attention to the doing than the result that you want to achieve through it. Give your fullest attention to whatever the moment presents. This implies that you also completely accept what is, because you cannot give your full attention to something and at the same time resist it.”

I realized, reading this book, well, many things but one being that I have mostly been worried or anxious about my particular future, and living there, in my head. Especially when it came to my health concerns and the physical symptoms, I would project myself into the future and not just accept what was in the moment but fight it - hard. I had an incredible AH-HA moment when I did this recently, started spiraling about symptoms and then applied what I was learning from the Power of Now: I got silent - deeply silent - and accepted (it is simple but not easy) what was. I wasn’t angry, anxious, or fighting what was happening. I succeeded in surrendering to what was at the moment. And whoa. Things got wayyy lighter. I am learning so much and I feel like it is another example of once you know, you cannot UN-know. My journey and practice is ongoing…

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Meditation before getting out of bed in the morning

I am on my 62nd day of daily meditation. I am not sure how I wasn’t doing this before as I am find so much benefit with my practice.

About 3 weeks ago, I woke up one morning around 5 am and I knew I wasn’t going back to sleep but I wasn’t ready to get out of bed. I decided to do an hour-long meditation with Dr. Joe Dispenza’s You Are The Placebo and saw huge impact right away. I felt I had both a lightness to my energy while having more energy. I’ve now set my alarm 3 times a week to do an pre-getting-out-of-bed meditation and I am loving it.

The Lion, The Witch, And the Wardrobe - the 2005 Film

It was TIME. Last weekend brought me a very wet, windy, stormy Saturday and I knew it was time for rewatch of this film. Just the best. I made some cozy food, turned off all the lights and lit some candles and let myself be carried away in one of my favorite stories of all-time, while in the place that inspired (some of) it. [If you don’t know Great Malvern’s link to CS Lewis and the Chronicles of Narnia, click here] If you want to be transported to another world, you can find the film on Disney+.

This MAN - Christopher Burn - ‘Poetry Changes Lives’

I discovered Christopher Burn* back in late November when I briefly created a Tik Tok account to follow some specific content and this wonderful man’s page popped up in my feed. He is in his 80’s and has created an incredible following [237K on Tik Tok!]. Everyday [on tik tok] he reads from his book, ‘Poetry Changes Lives’ about poetry and literary history. It is so soothing to listen to this man. Some of his posts have made me full-on cry, and listening to him has given me a new appreciation for poetry. I love him. This is a GOOD part of the [overall dumpster fire] internet.

*(you can find him on Youtube and Tik Tok)

While not calming per se, if you are interested, I have a new ‘Life Off-Script’ posted as well today. This episode picks up the thread of what I call the kickoff of this life of remote work/travel/living in different countries when I was traveling with a company called Remote Year. You will find me in April 2019 transitioning from a month living in Hanoi Vietnam to my new city, Chiang Mai Thailand. Kind of fun to coincide with the latest season of the White Lotus (one of my obsessions though not exactly “calming”).

That is what I have this week my friends.

Thanks so much for being here.

Take good care. Until next time.

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Hi Friends,

I am dipping my toe back into my audio journals with a bit of ‘Calm in the Chaos’ content, storytelling, travel location and making connections. I hope you enjoy it. Thanks so much for giving a listen.

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Hi my friends,

How are you doing this week?

We are finally in February which feels like a win, no?

Today I feel like I have been “through the wardrobe”…and emerged into a distinctly ‘Narnian’ environment. Which is not at all a bad thing.

If you are not a fan of CS Lewis or acquainted with ‘the Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe’ you might be thinking what the heck is she talking about?

Well, I’m talking about my current home for 7 weeks, Great Malvern, England.

Rolling green and burnt red hills, charming tidy homes with names like “The Belfry” and “Ripples Lodge” (that is the name of the house I’m staying in) and “Link End Cottage”, antique gas lamps (now electric) dotting the streets, church and graveyards, thick mists, cozy tea (and coffee) shops and just a general air of magic.

I actually had no idea before arriving here that there is a direct link between CS Lewis and Great Malvern. On my second day, I was talking with a local young lady, saying how much I already loved it here and I said, out of nowhere, “What in the Narnia is this magical place?” She gave me a big smile and said “Right?” But it wasn’t until 2 days later that I was chatting with a different person, at [my now favorite] coffee shop, that he asked me if I knew the connection between Malvern and CS Lewis? I swear to you - I got goosebumps! I said “Nooo” and he proceeded to tell me that CS Lewis came here after college and in particular the gas lamps (which were gas then) dotted throughout the village, the hills and woods, inspired his writings of The Chronicles of Narnia, in particular The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe - which is my very favorite of all of his books.

I’m writing this post from my office at Ripple Lodge, where the window looks out over the very beautiful rolling green, burnished red and deep green hills of Great Malvern. It is raining, as it is wont to do in England in winter, and the mists are enveloping the dip between the two hills in my view. I can see the tidy chimney lines of my neighbors houses and the bell tower of one of 3 churches in my immediate area. An inspiring place to be….

Even so, life and the world’s chaos continues to swirl but I remind myself that two things can coexist at once: magic and anxiety. And I try not to get swallowed up by the never-ending news cycles which are spinning faster than ever. I didn’t do so well last week with being off-line and my daily ‘screen time’ data report by evening on Sunday was appalling to me. It will steal my life if I let it, this scrolling and consuming, which is not productive for any real thing in my life. So this week I have promised to not let myself go unconscious (and turn to social media when I’m anxious, which is wild because the effect is mostly the exact opposite of calm) but to consciously be informed and take actions that feel right to me (like making calls to my US senators) and donating to organizations, world-wide, that are important to me and need help. I’m working hard to not get caught up in outrage and doom scrolling - it is far too easy to do so. Instead, I continue to turn to writing, walks in nature, uplifting art, books and music; conversations with strangers, a bit of magic and to these calming practices….

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Below I have this weeks recommendations and links to help generate ‘calm in the chaos’. I hope you find some goodness here.

1. Menopause Resource: I was catching up with a friend this weekend by zoom (another wonderful opportunity for joy - a good chat with a friend) and the topic of Peri-Menopause/Menopause came up. If you have been reading my substack for the last year you will see where I have shared my health issues, which some can definitely be attributed to menopause. I will be honest here and share with you, up until a year ago I really didn’t know much about menopause beyond the basics of my period stopping and hot flashes, even though I had certainly reached this milestone in my life in the summer of 2022. However, I quickly learned and got up to speed (and a bit overwhelmed) when I had a doctor in Italy dive into the possibility (and likelihood) of menopause being the cause of several concerning health issues.

I could write a whole post on my menopause deep-dive and experiences in navigating menopause/health the last year. Perhaps I will because it is kind of a doozy but I will say here that there are two things I know:

a. We are deeply underserved, as women, trying to navigate this significant change in our bodies that can start as early as our 30’s and last through the rest of our lives!

b. Right now menopause is $17.56 BILLION dollar business and while it is largely great that we are sounding the alarm to get more resources and care, when you are talking money there are always going to be GRIFTERS. I spent a lot of time looking for good resources and found some but also found clear menopause grifters who are making millions with their platforms and churning out advice that might be more harmful than helpful.

Today I want to share a legit, amazing resource. As menopause will surely impact you, or someone you know (wife, sister, mother, friend, daughter) even if you are not going through it yourself at the moment, this might be very interesting listening/reading.

My favorite expert on menopause is Dr. Lisa Mosconi - she is from Italy and is a neuroscientist and women’s brain health specialist. She has ranked in the top 1% of neuroscientists in the world and she has made menopause a serious focus of her research with the intent of making women’s lives better, longer.

Dr. Mosconi has been on many, many podcasts (and I have listened to at least 8 of them!) but I think my favorite is her conversation with Rich Roll here.

This is a YouTube of their conversation you can watch as well here.

Her book is so good: the Menopause Brain (I am linking to an independent bookstore - if you can please don’t support Amazon and support local, small businesses or your local libraries!)

2. Another Vagus Nerve Exercise: this is from the book ‘Accessing the Healing Power of the Vagus Nerve’ by Stanley Rosenberg (I will continue to reference this book that has helped me so much).

This exercise* has helped me so much with my dizziness and anxiety. I love it because it is so easy and quick. 2 minutes! And you don’t have to have a stiff neck for it to benefit you as it allows more energy and blood to flow from your spine to your brain.

*It is similar to the very first movements that we made as infants lying on our stomachs, propped up on our elbows, with our heads free to move so we could look around.

3. A personal tip for waking in the night with racing brain: this was happening for me long before I began to have panic attacks in my sleep - waking up at 3 am and suddenly I am wide awake and cannot stop my brain from thinking of 100’s of things and finding myself tossing and turning for hours. Not good. It was in November when I was awake again at 3:30 a.m. and fighting to go back to sleep when all of sudden I decided to try the Basic Exercise (vagus nerve exercise). I was amazed to find my brain slowing down just minutes later and the next thing I knew I was waking up at 7:00 a.m. to my alarm. I began using the Basic Exercise whenever I woke up and didn’t fall back asleep within 15 or so minutes. I’ve been waking much less in the middle of the night this last month - probably once or twice compared to multiple times a week.

4. This novel: for pleasure: ‘The Ministry of Time’ by Kaliane Bradley - if you like to read (or listen to books) I highly recommend this novel. Some of the prose made me stop reading and write down the sentences because they were so beautiful and/or interestingly descriptive. I won’t give away the plot but just trust me, if you need an escape, this might be it.

5. Relaxing Face Yoga - before bed: I know that it can feel overwhelming to think of all the “self-care” practices that could be incorporated into your days/evenings (how can you have time for it all, right?) but I want to offer these recommendations as not having to do them all on the same day or everyday but as perhaps having choices to reach for when you need them.

I just discovered ‘Face Yoga’ this past autumn and it was so incredibly relaxing and quick (only 8 minutes!) that I fell in love with it. If you have some face oil or a cream you like, I recommend using it when you do this. This one is particularly great because it has NO TALKING - only relaxing music.

6. The Magic of the 10-Second Relationship - every time we leave our homes, there is the opportunity for social interaction. Studies show even just small “10 second relationships” can boost mental health and positive emotions.

   As a solo traveler, living in new places consistently, I am forever engaging in these brief but potentially magical relationships. Some of them turn into longer relationships, actually many of my “brief meets” of the last few years have turned into enriching friendships, but some are just that: brief. Having a short chat with another customer while waiting in line, or talking to the bookstore owner while having a wander; and definitely having a lovely exchange with my local barista, wherever I happen to be. Something as simple as asking “how is your day going?” can lead to a lovely exchange, leaving both your days better.

A Meditation Practice: I will leave you with this quote below to contemplate. It is from my meditation practice. Since incorporating a daily (I wake up an hour early and do it in bed) meditation practice at the end of December I have seen significant positive change in my physical and mental health and in my outlook overall during this stressful time in the world.

“To be greater than the body and greater than the environment for an extended period of time - that is, to accept, believe, and surrender to the idea of your inner world being more real than your outer world…you can not only change your beliefs and become more suggestible, but also use that state to program your subconscious mind to triumph over whatever health issues, emotional traumas, or other personal matters you might be dealing with.” Dr. Joe Dispenza - You Are The Placebo

Thanks so much for being here and for reading.

Take good care this week.

Hi Friends,

How have you been this last week? How are you holding up in the world?

Today I have a legit feeling of “how can it possibly still be January?” The last 7 days have felt like a month. But at the same time, kind of flew by because I was getting ready to leave Italy and after three months, I was settled in. So, the last week was a lot of seeing the friends I’ve made here, going to my favorites for coffee and cornettos, stocking up on chocolate (best chocolate in Italy in Turin) tidying and packing.

One of the things I am personally very grateful for the last week is that being in Italy in January, especially Turin, where people conversing in English is slim anyway, there is less than a 1% chance of me overhearing conversations about the [dumpster fire] US. Yes. Thankful for that as the minimal news I’ve allowed myself (which, to be honest, is more than it should be) has been grim and stressful.

Traveling and moving does not stress me out. Even with my persistent dizziness (which is not spinning dizziness but more of a feeling like I’m on a boat, swaying or rocking, and/or lightheadedness) I feel confident in my abilities to move in the world and while I will miss Italy, I am always delighted to be exploring a new place. More on that place will be coming soon as I get settled in.

I found my travel day this past Saturday to be very easy, especially my flight from Italy to the UK. I had no one else in my row on the plane, which is a seriously auspicious gift these days. There were stunningly beautiful views of the French Alps from the plane (see below) and the flight was quick and efficient. I did a meditation during the flight that gave me a deep sense of calm and it made the flight “fly by”. We were landing before I knew it.

When I arrived in the UK I had to get a 2-hour(ish) train to my destination and that’s where I got a bit backed up. My train kept getting cancelled or delayed and I was trying to find solutions but the situation wasn’t making me stressed. The more I have traveled the more I have “let go” of what I cannot control. After the second cancellation, and 2 delays posted to the schedule screen, I was trying to find solutions and was blessed by asking the exact right person (a station attendant) who came up with an immediate solution for me (where I had 8 minutes to make an alternate train, juggling my suitcase and shoulder bag). I then had a very comfy train ride through the British countryside, with a row to myself and charming views to enjoy. I now have a few days in an [excellent] airbnb until I settle into my permanent home for the next 7 weeks and this spot is SO GOOD. I will share more on this magical location in a future, dedicated post.

Here are 4 things to give a go this week for your bit of calm:

1. Bedtime Hygiene Practice: I know this is not a new concept but it is something I have only given serious thought to since going through my “high alert” anxiety filled last several months. Now, having a bed-time hygiene practice has changed my sleep game. And good sleep is so restorative for me. I’m grateful for it. Here are my rules/practices:

• No electronics for 1 hour (minimum) before bed. Which means no social media; podcasts; shows; etc.

• Absolutely NO laptop or shows/movies in the bedroom. If I want to watch something it has be in a separate room.

• 15-minute yoga stretch evening wind down. This has been a game changer for me. I can’t believe I haven’t been doing this before now.

• Read for an hour (in bed)

• Bed-time meditation by Dr. Joe Dispenza

2. 10% Happier Podcast - specifically this episode - ‘The Science of Walking: The Benefits of Walking in Nature, Walking Meetings, and Walking Meditation”

I am a big podcast person. I love a good interview or movie review podcast to listen to while traveling or to have on instead of watching a show. I definitely have my favorites and am going to be sharing them here (I have a big list) but this weeks recommend is fairly new to me: as of just last week! I think this podcast episode is absolutely perfect to share here for Calm in the Chaos this week. A quick, digestible 36 minutes and packed with goodness.

3. Evening pre-bed yoga - as mentioned above - 15 minutes to set your body up for sleep with stretch and deep relaxation. Here is the link to the free YouTube video.

4. This Book: ‘Don’t Believe Everything You Think’ by Joseph Nguyen

This book helped me so much with my anxiety. I keep returning to it and have many passages highlighted that I will be sharing for this column. When I first read it I was struck by the simplicity, and the power, of the practices. I will be returning to this over and over.

Here are two passages for your consideration this week:

“Look beyond the words. Truth comes in the form of a feeling. Look for that feeling. From that feeling will come the wisdom you seek, which will set you free. And that’s what we’re all ultimately seeking, isn’t it?”

“This book may seem simple. In fact, the solutions I propose may seem almost too simple, and your mind (ego) may try to fight them or attempt to make them complex. When that time comes, I want you to remember the truth is always simple.”

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Do let me know if you try any of these and how you go. Or share what is working for you right now. I would love to know.

Thanks so much for being here and for reading.

Take good care, my friends.

Hi Friends,

Welcome to a new column on Pied À Terre Life.

This new feature has been in the works for the last few months and it seemed very appropriate to launch it today. While I have been striving to not anticipate or experience the future of what this next US administration will feel like, four years has not been long enough to forget the constant dread I felt daily during round 1, which seemed like a decade. Combine this with all that is happening in the world, non-stop anxiety inducing headlines everywhere we look, and what I have been experiencing personally since late 2023: anxiety disorder - menopause - panic attacks (to name a few) and it is not a great mix for, well, existence. But while going through my own personal journey of being on high alert and in a perpetual state of fight or flight, I have found bright lights and solutions.

In the last 12 months, I have read at least two dozen interesting, life-changing, helpful books on anxiety, menopause, mental health, meditation, mind-body syndrome, chronic pain, spirituality and more. I’ve sought out health practitioners - traditional western - Chinese medicine - holistic; found calming and regenerative content including YouTubes; podcasts and writers here on substack to help me not just cope but to feel empowered by my own capabilities in this increasingly chaotic world.

While I’ve been “going through it” I’ve shared a bit on the practices or information I have personally found to be helpful, grounding and even life-changing. When I’ve shared these things here or on social media I’ve gotten overwhelmingly positive and thankful responses so I decided to make space here on Pied À Terre Life to share them regularly.

I’m going to be recording a piece on my audio-journal, Life Off-Script, with more details of my recent health journey (mental-physical) and how I have managed while living in different countries, as several people have asked for more information so stay tuned for that coming soon.

For this column, I will be regularly sharing the following:

Exercises for calming and nourishing the nervous system

Books and book excerpts

Podcasts

YouTube channels for physical exercise and more

Music

And more….

I will still be writing about travel life, mid-life, and making it up as I go. I am actually leaving Italy soon, as my 90-days flew by, and while I will say I would not leave Turin if I didn’t have to (it has been incredibly wonderful, easy and delicious to live here the last 3 months) I am headed somewhere entirely new to me and am excited to explore and share more here.

I hope you find ‘Calm in the Chaos’ useful, interesting and most of all, soothing. I think it is so incredibly important to create and nurture supportive and calm communities and practices for the good of us all.

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Here are a few CALMing things for your day/week*:

#1 - the most life-changing 1 minute exercises: Vagus Nerve Nourishment

These exercises are the most life-changing discoveries I made in 2024. A quick story: by September 2024 I was kind of a wreck. I was so anxious and fearful of my body and mind, my nervous system was shot and I had developed intense dizziness that was present daily at different levels, with the worst being an “11”. I had landed in Scotland, which is a place I love, and found myself in survival mode most of the day. A trip to the shops would exhaust me trying to manage my dizziness and lightheadedness. I spent ALL of September in a heightened state which I had never experienced before. I ended up in Scottish hospital ER for 16 hours, cared for and looked after, but discharged without any solutions.

Then in early October, when I was crying daily with frustration and increasing fear (would I ever feel normal again?), I found this book and these exercises. 4 minutes changed me and changed my trajectory. On this day I had been bracing myself to run an errand that was a 25-minute walk each way into the city. My early morning walk had been challenging, with vision issues and intense dizziness. I think I was searching ‘nourish your nervous system’ when I found these exercises. I thought well they can’t hurt. I did the ‘Basic Exercise’ and the ‘Half-Salamander’ which took 4 minutes total (60 seconds each). Could something so easy and short really help?

30 minutes later I headed out the door for my errand and I immediately noticed a very big difference: I was not as anxious or tight in my body and my dizzy/lightheadedness had gone from an 11 to a 6. The more I walked the better I felt. I was amazed to the point of crying, but this time in relief. When I returned from my errand I searched for more on these exercises and found Stanley Rosenberg’s book ‘Accessing the Healing Power of the Vagus Nerve’. I read the entire book in 24 hours.

While these exercises didn’t make everything disappear, they have been one of the most impactful solutions in my healing journey. I now start my day, from bed, with the basic exercise to set myself up for success and to be in rest and digest/social engagement mode instead of freeze or fight/flight.

#2 - Morning Qi Gong Practice

After suffering from stiffness and soreness in my hips and shoulders for over 2 years and drove me to my GP and several physical therapists without any conclusive diagnosis (but was likely attributed to menopause that no one ever discussed with me as a possibility) I found this Qi Gong practice in early 2023 and it has been a non-negotiable for my life ever since. I use this practice to start my day and wake up my body, stimulating my nerves and get my blood moving. I find it soothing for body and mind. The more present I am during the 20-ish minutes the better it works.

#3 - Dr. Joe Dispenza

I have been a fan of Dr. Joe and his work since 2020. I dove into his meditations during Covid and the horrific Oregon fires in autumn 2020 and return to his work consistently. I do his morning/bedtime meditations daily and have recently restarted one of his longer meditations: you are the placebo with incredible results.

Here is an excellent podcast to listen to and a link to Dr. Joe’s website. I finished his book ‘You Are The Placebo’ earlier this month. I highly recommend it as there is infinite goodness to be found. Here is an excerpt I have highlighted and now read several times a week:

“Imagine a world inhabited by billions of people, just like a school of fish, living as one - where everyone is embracing similar uplifting thoughts connected to unlimited possibility, and these thoughts allow people to make more inspired choices, demonstrate more altruistic behaviors, and create more enlightening experiences. People would then no longer be living by the survival-based emotions we are so familiar with now: feeling more like matter than energy separate from possibility. Instead they would be living by more expanded, selfless, heartfelt emotions - feeling more like energy than matter, connected to something greater.

If we could do this, then an entirely different world would emerge, and we would be living by a new credo based on the open heart. That’s what I see when I close my eyes to meditate” - Dr. Joe

#4 - My 13-Minute Reset Meditation

I will break from working (or scrolling) when I’m feeling anxious or off at least once a day to grab what I call my “reset”. I set my timer for 13-minutes, roll out my yoga mat (or a towel will do) and settle into my reset position, which is on my back, head cradled by a pillow, and my legs up a wall (above my heart). I turn on a binaural beats playlist from Apple Music and focus on this thought “1-inch behind my skull in the middle of my forehead”. This completely calms my mind, clears my mind, brings down my BP (legs above heart) and refreshes me.

#5 - [Trust Me] - This Wonderful Magical YouTube Channel - Lizqi

Instead of scrolling, watching the news or the ghoulish inauguration today (this is me speaking to ME not lecturing you, by the way) I recommend taking some time with this beautiful, calming, magical YouTube I discovered in December: Lizqi.

I learned of her through Tim Ferris’ newsletter (that I have subscribed to for over a decade) and could not have been more delighted and charmed to tune into her beautiful films, as I would call them. There is some interesting history in that she just returned to posting after “disappearing” for 4 years after setting the world record for subscribers to a Chinese-language channel with 14.1 million subscribers. She now has 23 million and returned with new posts this past autumn. I LOVE these videos so much - they make me dream and give me hope for the world. That is all I will say.

I will leave you with what I am currently pondering per the philosopher Baruch Spinoza:

“…you are just a fleeting moment of the infinite. You are a temporary manifestation of the mono substance. Eventually, your mind and body will disintegrate and you will rejoin the great ocean. But the substance won’t vanish. It will transform.”

“….you are not just a human. You are the universe momentarily expressed as you. And one day you will rejoin the infinite substance, not as a loss, but as part of the eternal flow of modes.”

Here is to finding calm in the chaos together and lifting each other up.

Thank you for reading, my friends.

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*MEDICAL DISCLAIMER: I am not a doctor. The content of this substack including but not limited to text, graphics, images, all materials are provided for reference and educational purposes only. This content is not meant to be applicable to any individuals medical condition or be a substitute for working with your own physician.

Hello Friends and Buon Anno from my current location in Torino, Italy.

I had originally drafted and outlined this post during the “in-between time” which is what I call the days between and after the Christmas and New Year holidays with an intention to get it out last week. However, life and world events slowed me down and put it on the back burner.

Since then, I have been blessed and thrilled to see so many new subscribers to this substack! First, a very warm welcome to you and thank you for being here. Please do reach out and let me know where you are in the world and if you feel called, to what you are looking forward to for 2025. I truly love connecting with this community and have had in-real-life friendships and old fashioned “pen pal” relationships sprout up, all of which I’m so grateful for.

Second, so many of you found ‘Pied À Terre Life’ through Anne Boyd Rioux’s wonderful substack ‘Audacious Women’ where she gave me a lovely shout out (that I had no idea was coming, might I mention) and wow, this is such a great example of the true power of community. I’m so thankful to Anne, for her friendship and support, and for introducing me to all of you. What a lovely way to kick off (a bit dark so far) 2025.

I have been in a true “wintering” mode, a slow, nurturing state, that has lasted all of December and into January. I have been thinking of it as a seasonal tending to my garden, which includes reviewing; pruning; cutting back; protection from elements; making compost and planning for the future. What does this translate to in my reality, you might wonder? Well, I have spent a lot of time meditating and finding true nourishment and creativity in that practice; lots of reading and listening to poetry (something very new for me - more poetry); walking for multiple hours along the Po River in Turin, Italy where I have set up my home in my temporary Pied À Terre for 3 months. And some good creative writing, daydreaming and working my day job, of course. If you read my post ‘A Pause’ you will learn more about how life in Italy extends an invitation to me, to sink into this slow living routine, especially in autumn and winter, where my body and mind (if I let it) escapes from rushing and chaos and can just be.

My daily routine during travel has evolved over the last year, in part due to some not so great health issues, physical and mental (I don’t think you can have one without the other), and I wrote about living this travel life while managing those in several posts, including this one. While I won’t say I have enjoyed these issues, I have come to appreciate the outcomes as they have changed me for the better in many ways. I shared some of these with Anne when we met in person this autumn while we were both living in Edinburgh and she shared some of my practices on her recent post. I am going to be writing my own post soon about these practices a bit more in-depth as I have gotten very positive feedback from folks on other platforms when I’ve posted about them so I want to give some attention to them here as we move into a new year that is already proving to be chaotic. I want to provide a space that is calm and uplifting, a pause in the chaos, even for just the time it takes to read or listen. More on that soon.

2024 Review: I learned that grief and gratitude can coexist

As I was reflecting on my 2024 by going through the many, many photos I take, they show an astounding year of living in different countries, quite unexpectedly for more than one. I could see that my experience could seem quite wonderful and fun through the visual storytelling but also showed that inside there was grief and a good deal of stress as well. But this is life, isn’t it? Nothing is all one or the other. Whether rooted in one place or exploring the world and new destinations, I realized that my body, my vessel, is my only true home. In 2024, my vessel brought me immense gratitude and grief and I accept both.

January-May: 2024 kicked off with a surprise (and consuming) health concern and a long plane ride from Italy (my 3rd autumn/winter there) to Melbourne, Australia which would be my home for most of that time. I had never been to Melbourne, even though I had visited Sydney in the aughts. It was not “on my bingo card” for an extended stay in Australia in 2024 up until December 2023 when I received an invite to house/cat sit for a dear friend of my son’s (and now mine). I said an enthusiastic yes with no hesitation. *I feel like I should mention here that all of my other travel has been me renting apartments or houses. Several folks have asked if house sitting is how I travel. It has not been the way I’ve traveled for the last 6 years but I am not closed to it at all.

Melbourne welcomed me with open arms: the loveliest, friendly, happy people; a delightful place to live in comfort; a great community; nature and the COFFEE. I arrived in summer and stayed through autumn and it was so incredibly lovely. Melbourne is an easy place to live and I want to return sooner than later. You can read more about Melbourne in detail here.

While I was down in the southern hemisphere, I planned a trip to New Zealand, my first time, and spent almost a month there (read more here) and while I enjoyed my exploration through both islands I would like to go back and spend all of my time at the bottom of the south island. I spent 7 days in Wãnaka at the end of my trip and just fell in love and wished I had spent all my time there. Wãnaka is very beautiful and charming and easy to manage and is adjacent to lots of excellent day trips including the bucolic Central Otago wine country. I spent a wonderful day touring wine country in the height of autumn leaf peeping and I can’t recommend it more.

May-July: Paris, France

Living in Paris for 2 months in the spring/summer of 2024 was also NOT in my plan going into 2024. Another serendipitous meeting (in my favorite wine bar in Florence, Italy) in December 2023 led to an immediate friendship developing mostly through messages and a few phone calls which eventually led to an offer to rent their private flat (not an airbnb) in the 12th arrondissement of Paris. I had never been to Paris and so my answer was a lively ‘Mais oui’.

Landing in Paris in mid-May, the weather was a delight, as was my home. In Paris, I lived in a very comfortable, charming older building in the middle of a true neighborhood. The 12th arrondissement is very local. As in not many tourists. It was perfection for me. I was surrounded by the loveliest of shop-keepers and bakers and Marche owners who looked past my non-existent-but-trying-hard French to make me feel welcome and a part of the community while I was there. At this time I went through some other alarming physical and mental challenges so it was important to feel safe and comfortable and I have to say I did. I found comfort in walking daily in the gorgeous, huge park that was only 10 minutes from my door. I also was blessed to find a wonderful acupuncturist and a gynecologist who were both amazing and very helpful.

Despite some of my challenges I had a wonderful 2 months - my flat was minutes away from the Metro line 8 which got me everywhere I needed to go; to the popular spots; the busy spots and then dropped me back in my charming and less-hectic neighborhood. Dreamy.

I had another travel friend (we met in Florence as well) come through Paris and we had an excellent dinner together and spent a day touring Champagne, arriving back in Paris for a spritz and snacks by the Seine.

One of my very favorite days EVER occurred while living in Paris. I spent the day bicycling through Versailles on a very special, bespoke, small tour (12 people). It rained most of the morning and I have to say bicycling through Versailles in the rain is something I highly recommend doing. I kept saying to myself “who am I right now?” which is something I say to myself whenever I experience something awe-inspiring. I have said this a lot these last few years.

You can read more about Paris and Versailles here.

Late July - September 1 - USA

When I left Paris in late July, I flew to Scottsdale, Arizona to see my son and landed back in the US where I hadn’t been since September of 2023. Almost a year. Being with my son was life-giving and wonderful but unfortunately I would become more stressed due to the US “healthcare system” and its hostility. That is all I was say for now but instead of dialing down my issues being in the US pushed them up.

However, spending time with my son was not stressful and we took a quick trip to Tucson, Arizona, which we consider our “home”. We moved to Tucson from Massachusetts in 1996 when Zach was 8 and both of us consider it where we are from. We adore Tucson - it is the very best southwest city and so wonderful. We saw friends, ate at our very favorite spots, enjoyed two monsoons and stayed at an Oregon friend of mine new accommodations which are so lovely. We fell into deep nostalgia for his (and my) younger years.

August saw me back in Oregon, briefly, to see friends, visit my storage unit to change out clothes, and do a bit of in-person work with clients (which I rarely do now - my work is 100% remote). August in Oregon is quite lovely and seeing friends was fantastic but I had plans to leave the country again so it was a short visit. I flew back to Arizona to soak up a few more days with my son and my “grand kitty” - his Maine Coon Mufasa before flying to Scotland.

September-November 1 Edinburgh Scotland

I first visited Edinburgh in January 2023 after dreaming about visiting and trying to sort a plan for a couple of years. It was through a friend of my son’s who would connect me with Scotland based wonderful, self-catering flat owners in late 2022 and they would offer the best of flat’s in my [now] favorite area of Edinburgh. I fell HARD for Edinburgh that winter stay (January-March) and thought to myself: if I love it in the winter I bet I would really love it in autumn (which is my favorite season - you can read about here). I booked a month stay in mid-September through mid-October 2023 and yes I LOVED it in autumn so had made a plan to settle in for 2 months in 2024.

Edinburgh now feels more like home to me than Oregon. I made many friends on my first visit and have been blessed to add more each time I have gone. I was quite social this time with many walks; coffee dates; lunch and dinner dates and some train adventures. One of those new friends I made this year is Anne Boyd Rioux! I had been a fan of her substack for a while but had not realized she was living in Edinburgh until I was reading a post of her’s in August. She wrote about Edinburgh in such a way that I knew she loved it like I did. I reached out to her immediately introducing myself and inviting her for a coffee while I was there. She was going to be out of town for half my trip but was there most of October and we were able to get together for coffee and we hit is off immediately, talking for over an hour in the coziest back room of my favorite coffee spot in Edinburgh, Artisan Roast on Broughton. I was so happy we got together several times, I shared more of my very favorite spots with her, and we had many lively conversations. Audacious women indeed.

Feeling at home in Edinburgh was important because I would have some major health concerns to deal with, physical and mental, which made me, quite frankly, angry, scared, and overwhelmed at times. Scotland has good healthcare, expensive to pay direct (more so than Australia or France), but very nurturing. I wrote about some of my nourishing self-care and holistic care in Edinburgh here.

Two (old) friends, upon hearing a little about my struggles (first rule of struggle - don’t talk about struggle but I did) asked me why I didn’t “go home”. Well, that’s a weird question (and not helpful may I add) because they know I don’t really have a home anymore so what would be the point of going back to the US? I’m not in love with my healthcare there (to say the least) so I decided I was better off in a place I do love, and figuring out my needs which took time but was definitely manageable. I wrote about this topic a bit here if you would like to check it out.

Overall, my time in Scotland was just LOVELY. A part of me wishes Edinburgh would stay a secret but I know it will not. There was a definite uptick in tourists while I was there this year as opposed to my previous visits. My flat is very close to a (very) popular ‘instagram famous’ street and I have to say some days it was overwhelming how many people were staging photo shoots with their phones. I was wondering how the people who live there are faring with it? I use the street often to walk to some of my favorite shops and I found myself avoiding it on the weekends. Such is the world right now but over tourism is a topic for another day.

The week leading up to November 1, my departure, had me going on many dates with friends to say farewell (for now) and I was truly sad to be leaving. Edinburgh is an easy place to live and I hope to go back for longer stays sooner than later. Stay tuned for more on that.

November-December (and January) - Italy

On November 1, I flew to Italy and landed in Milan which is my ritual now. I transition in Milan and spend a few days eating and walking around the city. I have written about ‘not sleeping on Milan’ as a city to visit and I love my preferred little section that I always stay in, Isola. This year another travel friend, who I had never met in person, but connected with through this substack, was staying in Italy for several months and would be there the same time as my arrival.

Sara and I would hatch a plan for her to join me in Milan for a night and she gamely braved the sometimes unpredictable train system to come stay. We made our time count! Sara had never been to Milan so we did a “Michele walking tour” and really hit some highlights - I tracked our steps to be 27k that day. We had a spritz at the historic Campari bar next to the Milano Duomo which is fabulous and then ended the day with dinner at my favorite restaurant, Ratana. The next day we both went to the majestic and very busy Milano train station - her back to Rome and me on to Turin. So so lovely. I hope we can do another meet up again soon.

I landed (back) in Turin on November 5 and have been here ever since. This is the place that I have felt most relaxed and chill since summer and it has had such a healing effect on me. I feel hopeful and renewed, different in a good way. Torino is elegant, beautiful, easily walkable around the center and a bit more laid back than other Italian cities where I have stayed.

I love all of the Italian cities I have called home over the last 3 years but Turin has been perfect for this chapter and has given me all I need. I have beautiful walks, delicious food, a perfectly located flat and have made lovely Italian friends! I also had my Paris-apartment friend come through Turin briefly in December, with her cousin, and the three of us had the most perfect of long lunches followed by a long stroll to the center to a historic bar for some vermouth (a specialty of Turin) and ending with a tasty visit to two of the best chocolate spots. We then took a sunset walk back to the River Po. A perfect day.

I spent the holidays enjoying the lights and festivity of Italy, which is so special. I ate (too much maybe?) panetonne, walking through the holiday light-filled streets, peeping sparkling trees in windows and was blessed with a brief, magical evening of snow. One of my Torino-Italian friends invited me to their home for a friends and family holiday gathering that was one of my favorite evenings ever. I felt so welcome as I stumbled through my [improving] Italian, ate delicious food and laughed and talked. I had a cold walk home through our charming, quiet quarter with the Mole a sparkling beacon and thought again “Who am I right now?”

I am now on my last two weeks in Italy and have used up my 90-days Schengen visa. I can’t return to a Schengen country until April.

I have so much gratitude for 2024 and all the joy and awe it presented in my life. I also have gratitude for the grief. I know that sounds false but it is true. Honestly, it is the only way I can make sense of all the challenges and also not hold on to the tough days but to let them go with grace for their lessons and the slowing down they provided. I don’t know if some had to be quite so rough?? Only time will tell the opportunities they provide.

Here are a few thoughts I have held fast to and will continue to hold to as we move into the new year:

• Believe in your ability to do amazing things

• The more you feel your feelings the more you understand them

• The world is full of incredible, life-changing people and places

• Your life can change in a moment

• It is hard because it is unfamiliar, not because you are incapable

• Your choices only need to make sense to YOU

What does 2025 hold? Well, I won’t be returning to the US anytime soon. I have some irons in the fire and am delighted to be exploring somewhere new. More on that soon.

Thank you so much for being here and for reading my 2024 review. I am so excited to be back with my readers and to welcome so many new people to this page.

I have plans for future posts, as I mentioned above, on calming nourishing practices and/or places. I also will be picking back up my audio journal ‘Life Off-Script’ very soon. There are a few episodes recorded so if you haven’t listened yet you can do so here.

If you want to read about how I began this Pied À Terre Life my ‘Great Purge’ posts are a good place to get started.

Do let me know if you have any travel or remote work life questions or want to chat. You can message me directly or comment below. I love connecting.

Ok friends, until next time, stay safe and cozy wherever you may be.

As my Italian friends say to me when we part (in a whisper) “Ciao, ciao, ciao, ciao, ciao….”

Hi Friends,

We are officially in the “kooky season” of the holidays now that it is December. I am deeply invested in all things holiday season: I wish for snow (which we had a smattering of here in Turin for a hot minute last month) and love taking long walks at night to see the holiday lights around town, which are abundant in Italy, and to peek at windows with festive decor (but not peeping in a weird way) of bright lights and trees. The season lifts me up and carries me with it and I so enjoy it.

But, as I see people start to rush about, whether they are shopping for gifts or seeing friends and wandering busy holiday markets, I thought again about the need for a pause. I think even in joyous hectic-ness, nourishing ourselves as the world continues to spin or churn is necessary so today I am sharing the incredible healers in Edinburgh, Scotland.

Edinburgh quickly became one of my favorite places in the world to be during my first visit in the winter of 2023. I’ve been lucky to visit three times since January 2023, staying for 6 weeks to over 2 months each time. I have loved it more each time - the gorgeous walks and spots of stunning nature throughout the city; the charming cobblestoned streets, sweeping castles and historic kirkyards, excellent coffee and cozy restaurants and book stores galore! The secret corners, friendly and delightful people, dogs everywhere and the haunting music of bagpipes that seem to permeate the city no matter where I am. It is dreamy.

What might not be quite so well-known: the true healers who offer incredible services to help you nourish and recharge. Since my first visit I have been accumulating an impressive list and cultivating relationships with wonderful people who I am delighted to now call friends. If you are planning a trip to Edinburgh bookmark this page and be sure to create space for a treatment (or two). You won’t be sorry.

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MY NOURISHING EDINBURGH LIST

MODM - this elegant shop in Stockbridge, Edinburgh on St. Stephens Street, was right around the corner from my first flat and I was immediately drawn in by its minimal beauty. I was drawn in by Jodi, the shops delightful owner and we became fast friends. MODM produces some of the very best beauty products I have ever used. I am absolutely obsessed with the face oil, which I’ve now purchased several bottles. On my latest visit, this autumn, I was able to book a facial with Jodi in her serene and gorgeous treatment room. I spent one of the most relaxing hours I can remember in the dim light while Jodi used her magic products and hands to give me a glow from inside out. After that experience I had to have her cleanser, which is like a warm jelly that foams when you add water and is so spectacular - it is a MUST. MODM also uses and sells Nouri products, a clean brand from Copenhagen, and their team made a visit to Edinburgh in October and I had another skin treatment with them - it was beyond fantastic and I became an immediate fan of their serum. At the very least you must visit the shop, as Jodi sells multiple products including wonderful custom incense and candles. However, if you can, book a facial to nourish your skin and soul.

A quick aside from healers: St. Stephens Street is one of the best in town with many excellent shops and pubs and bars. My favorite sustainable clothing shop - TREEN - which has the most delightful owner and staff and beautiful clothing lines with ethical practices is on the corner just three spots down from MODM. Golden Hare Books - a super charming, tiny bookshop is a must pop-in for books and SKUA is great restaurant below grounds while the Last Word is the perfect spot for a craft cocktail.

LISA LEE ACUPUNCTURE - before I visited Edinburgh for the first time in January 2023 I was called to look for an acupuncturist there. I had booked my flat and something spoke to me that I might have some luck with acupuncture for ailments that had been plaguing me for some time. I found Lisa Lee online and read her profile and booked a session for my first week. I have now seen Lisa over a dozen times in the last 2 years and she is one of the very best - a true healer. Her approach is so gentle and thorough. Working with her has been the best acupuncture experience of my life and I’ve worked with multiple acupuncturists. Her office is located in the West End of Edinburgh which is an excellent neighborhood to explore but her street in particular has my favorite flower shop and a great wine bar.

THE LYMPHATIC METHOD - it was sometime this past summer that Gillian, also known as the Lymphatic Facialist on Instagram, showed up in my feed. I can’t remember how exactly I found her page but immediately I was drawn in to her healing vibe and began following her. Gillian offers several services that focus on “enhancing the body’s natural detoxification process through lymphatic drainage”. While looking through her Instagram page and then her website one service really spoke to me: a 90-minute lymphatic drainage massage and facial. I decided to book this treatment on my birthday in October and all I can write is WOW. Again, another top 10 experience, I literally floated back to my flat in the rain, which is a 30-minute walk from Gillian’s space in the West End. I remember her saying to me before she began I want you to feel safe and comfortable and enjoy yourself: who doesn’t want this? I felt the wonderful effects of her healing touch for days after. I highly recommend booking as early as possible if you know you’re going to be in Edinburgh as she’s typically booked out by weeks. DO NOTE: Gillian lives in the (very) charming seaside town of North Berwick, which is an easy train ride from Edinburgh Waverly, and has a practice there as well. I HIGHLY recommend a visit to North Berwick in itself but maybe you can combine your trip with the visit and a treatment.

AMANDA BURNETT CRANIOSACRAL - have I mentioned that 2024 has been, well, a YEAR? I have had some serious challenges in my mind and body and some of it came to a head while I was in Scotland this autumn. I needed some help with my body and head energy in addition to the acupuncture I was doing and craniosacral therapy popped into my mind. It had been many years since I had craniosacral therapy, which I had done regularly back in the 90’s when I worked at Canyon Ranch, a world renowned wellness and medical spa/resort but I knew from experience it could be very helpful. For those who don’t know it: craniosacral therapy, in brief, is a light-touch hands-on therapy that can help move the energies in the body and make everything work more efficiently. I started searching for practitioners in Edinburgh and hit the jackpot with Amanda Burnett. Amanda is a wonderful therapist, who asks important questions, listens intently and does amazing work. Her office is located just on the edge of New Town, towards the West End.

SOLSTICE WELLNESS - when I was on my way to one of my favorite coffee spots, Ante, which is about a 20-minute walk from my flat in Stockbridge, my eye was caught by a new shop on the lower level on Broughton Street. Called Solstice Wellness the sign said they had quality supplements and I could see through the window a cozy space and I couldn’t wait to visit. Unfortunately, I did not get my timing right and didn’t visit until the last two weeks of my recent stay. I say unfortunate because Solstice Wellness has so much to offer! When I first visited, I immediately got on with Graham, one of the owners, and we had a great connection and chat. Graham and his wife, April, moved to Edinburgh from the US 2-years earlier and opened Solstice Wellness. April is a naturopathic doctor and offers many excellent 1:1 consultations focusing on women’s health (which we need more focus on). I was able to enjoy getting to know Graham and April better over coffee and a walk, as we ended up living only a few minutes walk away from each other, and I just love and support all they are offering the Edinburgh community. Solstice Wellness also has great quality supplements and other products in the shop and has an infrared sauna, BEMER mat (pulsing electro magnetic field), and Hyperbaric (oxygen) therapy. I was able to book a session on the BEMER mat followed by the infrared sauna and it was HEAVEN. If I was living there, especially in winter, I think I would go every week. Definitely bookmark a visit to the shop and explore their offerings. Broughton Street is a great one, nestled between New Town Stockbridge and bustling Leith Walk, and has many excellent restaurants, one of my favorite coffee spots, Artisan Roast (the staff at this location is the very best), very cute shops and a Real Foods Organic grocery store. A must visit.

I hope this list perhaps inspired you to seek out some of these therapies for yourself, wherever you are, during this hectic time of year or jeez, this hectic time in the world. I personally feel like the world is A LOT right now and I’m remembering to take time to pause and nourish my nervous system as much as I can whether it be at home or working with an incredible healer.

If you’re considering a trip to Edinburgh do let me know as I would be happy to share more intel and recommendations. Edinburgh is, quite simply, magic.

Take good care of yourself. Thanks for being here.

Until next time….

Hi Friends,

Whew. It’s been a month already hasn’t it? 

I’m currently in Turin, Italy where I have been since arriving on November 5. I left Scotland, where I had been since early September, on November 1 and did a quick weekend transition in Milan before taking the train to Torino [or Turin]. This is my second year in Turin and upon my arrival I felt like I was being welcomed back with a warm hug. Such is the feeling that Italy gives me. 

On this Saturday (as I’m writing this), after a huge, emotional full moon and a huge, emotional week (give or take), I’m taking an intentional pause. 

Taking a pause in Italy is natural. Taking a pause is deeply imbedded in their culture that I love so much. The relaxed “I don’t have anywhere to be besides being here with you enjoying this cappuccino” of it all is everywhere I look. To sit with your people or book/newspaper (newspapers are still very much alive here) or your dog, freakishly chill compared to US dogs, in cafes; taking walks arm in arm along the river Po, watching the rowers - who perhaps are in motion but also relaxed in taking time doing something they love. All of it feels like a pause - from the hectic-ness that is modern life in the 21st century. 

As I watch people come and go from my favorite spot for coffee and brioche in Turin, even when they come in for a coffee standing at the bar, there is a relaxed ease to the pause. 

Needing the Pause 

I have been doing very intentional work to calm and nourish my nervous system, which has been alerting me that it is overtaxed - sometimes in very alarming ways. 

It was in October that I discover the book, ‘Accessing the Healing Power of the Vagus Nerve” by Stanley Rosenberg. I’m not sure where I saw it referenced. I was googling and youtubing “calming my nervous system” on the regular. But I think it was a video on youtube that demonstrated a variation the basic exercise and that led me to Stanley Rosenberg. I promptly purchased the book and I read the ENTIRE thing in 24 hours. I was eager (perhaps desperate is a better word) to understand what was going on in my mind and body that seemed were spiraling faster and faster out of control and constantly on high-alert. As I read this book and learned about the exercises to help calm your nervous system, I was a bit skeptical that these exercises, so easy and quick, could make a real difference. But I certainly didn’t have anything to lose and so I began. 

4 exercises: the basic; the 1/2 Salamander; the Salamander and SCM for Stiff Neck took me less than 10 minutes and changed my life. An hour later I wasn’t the same person. I was astonished. Many of my troubling symptoms diminished by over half and I felt better than I had in weeks. 

I now call these vagus nerve exercises my daily pause. Where I spend intentional time nourishing my nervous system. I’m so grateful for this discovery and for how it is helping me with the overwhelm I sometimes feel in my brain and body. Especially days when I feel like I’m living ‘neck up’ and just in my head. 

It is a lot to be in the world right now. We need all the help we can get.

Pause. Nourish. Take some time. 

I’m so grateful to be here in Italy again - my 4th winter! Who knew? I did not know this would be my life even in the summer of 2021 right before I decided to “go to Italy” that autumn because I had never been and I felt like I was being called to. Some people thought I was a little crazy, going off solo to Italy during the still happening pandemic but it was one of the very best things I’ve done. Saying yes to myself, listening to my inner voice and just making it happen. 

So, I’m here again and feeling wrapped up in the pause of it all, and taking my cues from the lovely folks in Torino. I’ve been here less than 2 weeks and already have a familiarity with the people at my favorite restaurant - today the bar was quite full and I was waiting my turn to order when the barista put my cappuccino down in front of me - he already had my order going without me asking. 

The very efficient and wonderful woman who runs the show at my favorite spot welcomed me in with a Buongiorno - è bello vederti - “lovely to see you”. 

I am feeling held in this space and time. And the daily reminders to pause and just enjoy moments in life - an excellent cappuccino - a sweet dog pressing his cold, wet nose into my hand - a warm greeting - and very lively calls of “Grazie Arrevaderci! Buono Giornata! as I walk out the door. 

I’m deeply grateful and appreciative of the good and nourishing and the magic of the pause. I’m going to be doing more of it.

Thanks for reading. 

Until next time, Buona Sera.