The Life of a NYC Vagabond, well...sort of.

!!!!! NEW BLOG !!!!!

2011-03-22T10:28:00.000-07:00

I have a new blog! I think it's safe to say that I will be using tumblr from here on out. It's been real blogspot.

ADD ME: http://nicoleburnor.tumblr.com

Pea soup

2011-03-21T17:23:00.000-07:00

I know it's been a while since my last post but I'd like to kick things off with some good eats.

I've been really into cooking lately. Tonight I made a delicious pea soup. Here is my recipe:

2 12oz bags of frozen peas
1c Greek yogart
1c Chicken stock
1 Lime, squeezed
2 tbls Cilantro, chopped
1/2c Red onion, chopped
3 Garlic cloves, chopped
1 tbles olive oil
A pinch of salt and pepper

Steam peas for 4-5min or until soft. While peas are steaming, fry red onion, garlic and olive oil in sauce pan until onions are soft and almost translucent; about 6min. Transfer peas to a blender and add chicken stock, onions/garlic and cilantro. Blend until smooth. Return mixed blend to stove top and whisk Greek yogurt and lime in a medium pot. Add salt and pepper to taste.

This recipe should not take more than 20min to prepare and is perfect as an entree. Add a handful of whole wheat crackers on the side and you've got yourself a meal.

I still don't know what love means

2011-02-04T21:01:00.000-08:00

An email from a friend.

2011-02-04T14:45:00.000-08:00

I received an email from a friend this morning that struck a chord. It's an interesting perspective that I think people have a hard time seeing from time to time.

The email reads,

"The thing about life, coming from someone who can't manage his own, is its best lived impulsively.
Everything is easier said through lyrics to songs and cliched nonsense. But, honestly, how many times is one expected to say "Carpe Diem" before it becomes a crutch. Everyone grew up wondering and thinking how things would turn out for me. There were always movies and songs to go by, problem being they are all songs based on other peoples experiences and journeys. It's real tricky to distinguish idolization from inspiration. Does that make sense? Maybe we tell ourselves that the words other people have written are similar to the ones we would write ourselves, or maybe we just take them for granted and are too lazy to write them. Or, perhaps, our lives are lived across so many creative outlets that it is hard to distinguish the best from pointless. Maybe is a terrible word. It has always been there to keep me from doing something that I should have. Maybe I should paint almost always means that I will push it off until the next day. It is odd, these days, that we can gain some sort of feeling of accomplishment from simply bitching about not doing something.
Hopefully, one day, we can reach a point where we can look back and say, "I did THAT.", not "I did something" or "I made a difference", but I did something that I cared enough to do. From what I have seen so far, no one has any answers to any fucking question. And why should they? Young or old, who knows anything? No one. And in a way that is beautiful. Not in a sunset on the beach beautiful, but rather a fuck it let's have a good time beautiful. (ALL of this is based on me not having kids, not having much responsibility and having a roof over my head.)

If you WANT to do something, you'll do it. Never regret skipping a night of painting to sit in your bed and watch movies.
Think BIG.
Live selfishly."

True words from a good friend.

Looking forward...

2011-02-03T19:25:00.000-08:00

2011 started out a little rocky but now that a month has pasted I'm able to gain some perspective and direction. I need to start doing things that inspire and motivate me as an individual. I need to create, explore and bottom line just do things that make me happy.

Mark Twain once said,"Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover." I want to live by these words wholeheartedly.

Here are my top 5 things I have to look forward to within the next few months:

1) NYC Ballet Swan Lake, Feb 18th
2) Art House Coop Sketchbook Project Brooklyn, NY opening, Feb 19th
3) West Coast Adventure: Portland,OR & Los Angeles,CA, March 11-20th
4) City And Colour concert, March 31
5) European Tour/ Anthony & Raj's wedding in London: London, Barcelona & Paris, April 28- May 8th

Along with the top 5 I am also looking forward to getting my studio space up and running this weekend. I can't begin to explain how badly I've been wanting to paint. I want to get dirty and stay up late with The Beastie Boys while painting in my underwear just like I did when I was in undergrad. I'm also in the market for a new instant camera. I think I'm leaning towards the Instax mini 7 by Fuji.

I like that it's mini and how the model is contemporary all the while sustaining it's classical medium of instant photography. Or is it alternative? The digital world is growing too fast for me to keep up, but that's a whole other topic for discussion. It's been well over a year since I last shot my Polaroid camera. Needless to say it's been too long. My investment in a new instant camera is imperative in order for me to support my creative cravings.

Check it out:
http://fujiinstax.blogspot.com

A little bit of this....and a little bit of that...

2011-01-19T10:05:00.000-08:00

It's been a week since my last post. I've been busy finishing my sketchbook for an upcoming art show I'm in through the Art House Coop.

Another reason why I've been so lack at writing is because I just spent an epic weekend in Boston. My friends Monica & Eric tied the knot on Sunday. I had a BLAST. With the wedding being in Worcester I decided to take the weekend to visit old friends who still live in Boston. Needless to say it was just what I needed. I was able to have a cuddle sesh on Friday night, hit up Harvard Square for lunch on Saturday and went on a date with my bff Saturday night. We went to go see Blue Valentine, which might I add is a must see. Here is the trailer. P.s. Ryan Gosling is a mega babe.

Saturday night was also spent bar hopping in the theater district with old faces. I love that area of Boston, the Commons are always lovely in the winter. Sunday morning my parents came to Southie where I was staying and took me out to breakfast. Although my sister wasn't able to join it was still nice. I told my parents about my ideas of writing a memoir and my Mom had tears in her eyes. She's a silly one that lady.

Today has been spent listening to Bon Iver radio and drinking tea all the while being at work, one of the many perks of my job. Here is a song that came on through the shuffle...

Loves it.

"Fear of the unknown is the greatest fear of all."

2011-01-11T13:57:00.000-08:00

Snakes, heights, large crowds, time, public speaking, failure, vulnerability and commitment are only a few things that give me the heeby jeebies. We all learn that once we enter this world there are only two things that are certain; death and taxes. Like us, fears have a life expectancy. We never forget the moment we discover we have the fear and in most cases we will all parish with most of, if not all of our fears. What are your fears? How do you cope/overcome them?

Snakes. I knew I was afraid of snakes right around the age of eight. My family and I were taking a nature walk (something that is very common with us 'country' folks) at Odiorne Point State Park. I was walking ahead of everyone humming to myself, taking in the sun when all of a sudden "YIKESSS!!!!!!!!", I spotted a slithering creature crossing my path. I was OUT OF THERE. I ran so fast that I left my family behind in the dust. It was awful. Soon after my family caught up to me, giggling and teasing, not knowing that my sudden sprint was due to the sight of the scariest, grossest garden snake I had ever seen. Yes, you read correctly, a garden snake. Even my parents couldn't put me at ease of such a wimpy creature. From that day on whenever I mention my fear of snakes my parents remind me of the time I mastered my Forest Gump impression with a nice crisp sprint.

Let's skip through the fear of heights, large crowds, public speaking and jump right to failure, vulnerability, and commitment. Who isn't afraid to fail? This is a big one, especially amongst my peers. You see, being a late 20 something with a college education, living in one of the most expensive cities in the country can be rather daunting. The thought of failing, not making it, selling out and letting people down are common thoughts that I have on a regular basis. Although I try to live my life as if it were a blessing, it's difficult to stay focused on what is most important; the process. I might be at point A and my goal/dream is at point Z but without going through the rest of the alphabet first, no matter how long it might take, I'll compromise myself from learning and experiencing the meat and potatoes of what makes my goal/dream significant. How's that for analogies. Bottom line, we all have the fear of failing and it might never go away. The best thing we can do is to remind ourselves that through our passions and energy we will create our own destinies.

Vulnerability. Well, this is a bit complex. To sum this up I'd say that I have a fear of becoming completely vulnerable to people. I recognize that I am an open, compassionate, trustworthy, and loving person. Why would I have trouble being vulnerable? I think the 'L' word has something to do with that. And no, I am not referring to the L.A. lesbian drama series on HBO. I don't have trust issues, or intimacy issues, those are never a problem. I think the trouble is being completely exposed to someone, giving myself emotionally, and letting go. I have no problem having others feel like themselves around me but for whatever reason I have a hard time feeling myself 100% around other people.

And then there is commitment. Disclaimer: I am a very loyal, trustworthy mate. I have never cheated, nor lead anyone on with the exception of maybe one or two gentleman friends in High School (but that was High School so it doesn't count). I think this fear has something to do with the fact that I am picky. Not only that but I usually tend to have a high guard when it comes to committing to a relationship. It's kind of funny to think about. I have no trouble being committed to other things such as jobs, friends, making plans and setting goals but when it comes to the interest in the opposite sex I clam up. Why is that? Here is my analysis. I was a late bloomer in the whole dating scene. I never dated much before college and in terms of sex, I lost my 'v' card at the age of 23 when a lot of my peers were going at it like rabbits anywhere between the ages 14-19. On top of it all I was never someone to throw around the four letter word, starting with the letter L and ending in E. I've actually only said it to one other person (aside from family members/friends) and that doesn't even count because it was my best friend and in the form of a letter. I've felt it more than once but never got the courage to admit it to the other person. So, what gives? I don't really have any answers to why I have a fear with being vulnerable. Call me old fashion, call me crazy. I think I'll know the solution when I see it, or more so, feel it.

To end this rant for now I will leave you with this. The best part about fearing something is that there is hope that someday/somehow you can overcome them. You can work on it because the outcome will be rewarding and beneficial to self-growth and your enjoyment in life and all its other challenges.

Bucket List

2011-01-10T16:29:00.000-08:00

No I am not referring to the dramatic comedy staring Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman (which I haven't seen yet) but more so the top 100 things you want to do before you die. I think everyone should become acquainted with their hopes and dreams. Why not write it all down to make them more real? I have recently began to organize a bunch of things that I am interested in accomplishing during my life. Such things involve personal goals, travel, family, financial goals, relationship and personal pleasure. Here is what I've got so far...

1. The Aurora Borealis/Northern Lights
2. Taj Mahal
3. The Great Pyramid of Giza
4. The Great Wall of China
5. US cross country road trip
6. Participate in a threesome
7. The Grand Canyon
8. Publish a book of short stories
9. Publish a book of Polaroids
10. European tour (London, Paris, Barcelona...)
11. To be in two places at once
12. Skydive, again
13. Japan
14. Shake Bill Murray's hand
15. Live in the mountains in a log cabin
16. Own a Cafe
17. Have at least 2 healthy children
18. Travel to all continents
19. Get married before 40
20. Go on a hot air balloon ride
21. Patagonia
22. Easter Island
23. Work in a creative position
24. Website
25. Pay off school loans, eventually
26. Start a non profit
27. Help my parents financially
28. Travel with my sister
29. Own a Ford 150
30. Have a pet dog or two
31. Bonnaroo
32. Illustrate a childrens book
33. Learn to ski
34. Snorkel
35. Learn to surf
36. Learn how to play the piano

It doesn't just stop here. Those are only a few things that I'd like to see through before it's my time to go. What's on your bucket list?

Needs/Wants for 2011

2011-01-09T10:07:00.000-08:00

First and foremost I would like to wish everyone a Happy New Year. It has been just shy of three months since my last post which is far too long.I think it's time to start getting back to it. Let's do a little recap on 2010 shall we...

2010 was a big year for me. My transitions to NY really unfolded, I moved into an apartment with the best roommates anyone could have and I found some stability in the direction(s) that I am going in. I ended the year celebrating the young lives that were lost, redirecting myself and analyzing my goals and ambitions for the next few years to come.

The New Year serves as a great place to press the 'do over' button. Or more so, the 'restart' button. Each year is spent learning more about oneself, experiencing life and exploring the options of creating the 'path' that we all see ourselves going down. I think for me this past year was monumental. After having a rugged two years in New York (career wise) I have regained the confidence and strength that I was lacking for far too long. As of now, my career path is heading in a more positive direction. Although I may not be doing what I want to do for the "rest of my life" right now, I have goals. My current employment is, for lack of a better word, fun. I enjoy my time while at work and look at this as a perfect transition job. It allows me to stay afloat financially all the while it shines some light on this dreary city. All in all, I feel fortunate.

It isn't easy "growing up" in today's society. What does that even mean, to grow up? Is it financial independence? Graduating from a respected college, getting married and having babies? How does the stress of the social norm affect you? Because for me, I feel abnormal and almost out of the loop when it comes to it. I am slowly learning that the norm is obsolete and that we all have our own definition of what "happiness" is. What does happiness mean to you? How is it any different from your peers? And most importantly, are you being true to yourself? Those are questions I ask myself almost every day...

Here are some of my 'Needs' and 'Wants' for 2011...

NEEDS
1) Create a game plan...for life... (How ambiguous I know...)
2) Constant personal affirmation that there is no 'right' or 'wrong' way to grow up...
3) To go on more adventures...
4) Travel , internationally and domestic...
5) Write more snail mail...
6) Remind the ones I love that they mean the world to me...
7) Scan all 83478374 Polaroids and get crackin on publishing my book...
8) Get my studio space up and running (I gave myself until the end of Jan to get this done)...
9) DRAW/PAINT everyday ...this is an understatement
10) READ/ WRITE/BLOG everyday, again...another understatement...
11) Stay physically focused...health wise...
12) Say what's on my mind more often then none.
13) Spend more time with family. This a big one. I think this is something people realize the older they get.
14) To get a website up and running.
15) Explore...

WANTS
1) More inspirational moments...
2) To go skydiving, again...
3) Cross country road trip (I've never been to the West Coast)...
4) A healthy romantic relationship...
5) A bicycle
6) More motorcycle rides, picnics, beach adventures, nights under the stars...
7) Camping/fishing trip(s)
8) Museum endeavors
9) Live music
10) Make-out sessions
11) Shelves for my room so I can finally unpack...
12) To never settle for less than what I deserve.
and 13) To find a way to make a change/ difference in this crazy world...

I have faith that things work out the way we all want them to in the long run. We all have more control over our lives then we think we do, it's all about taking the risks. I'm a firm believer that there is no such thing as failure, that we all learn from our mistakes/misfortunes. My mother always says that there is a a positive in every negative. I believe in that wholeheartedly. I also feel that there is a bigger plan for all of us, we just need to have trust in it and in ourselves through the decisions and actions we make.

Here's to a new year, new beginnings and to the rigorous process of following our dreams.

I shall leave you with one of my favorite quotes.

"Whatever you do in life will be insignificant, but it’s very important that you do it because nobody else will." - Gandhi

for lack of better blogging...

2010-10-19T22:08:00.000-07:00

Tunes for Tuesday

2010-09-28T06:31:00.000-07:00

New Sufjan Stevens!!! You won't be disappointed.

A friend of mine just introduced me to Shayna Zaid. So far I'm digging.

Gals Rock

2010-09-14T10:26:00.000-07:00

Hot fun in the summer time

2010-08-26T09:14:00.001-07:00

obsessed

2010-08-26T09:04:00.000-07:00

For whatever reason or another I cannot stop listening to Ray LaMontagne so I have decided to embrace it. I think it's love.

Andrew Bird

2010-08-09T10:41:00.001-07:00

Arts and Farts and Crafts

2010-08-09T09:55:00.001-07:00

Here are my latest paintings from the past 3 months...

"We will never not be friends" May 2010

"Faces" July 2010

"Places" July 2010

"Night Vision" August 2010

All paintings are 6x6, mixed media and shown at the Charmingwall Gallery in NY,NY.

Back at it

2010-08-01T16:51:00.000-07:00

For whatever reason I took some time off from blogging. I can blame this on a) being lazy b) getting caught up with every day things or c) I can even make the excuse that I live in the most hectic city in the United States. I think it's fair to say that it is d) all of the above.

This past month has been a bit of a wake up call to say the least. Life has knocked on my door and said, "Hey Nicole, I know you are going through the challenges of what the mid-20's bring and although I have faced you with loss and confusion; you are still going to be OK."

Let's recap. Within the last month I have learned:

1) How fragile life can be
2) My appreciation for my family & friends
3) How much I miss home
4) To be more honest with myself and others
5) To be ok with the directions that I am going in
6) To put aside feelings of angst and replace them with forgiveness and solitude
7) To start balancing myself through art, reading, exercise, relationships, money, health (both physical and mental) etc...
8) To keep an eye on the 'Big Picture' and enjoy the process that it takes to obtain it
9) To define my own definition of 'Happiness'
and 10) To never settle for less then what I truly deserve

A word that has been embedded in my head lately is 'balance'. What does that mean to me? It has taken some time for me to recognize that I am a country girl at heart who is living in a fast pace, soul sucking city. The good thing about recognizing this is that I have more control then I think. Although I have my troubles with NYC, I know that I can make it into something that I love. I don't need to stay here forever, I refuse to. I do know that I need more time here to plant my imprint, be it through the intimidating art scene or simply through the concrete streets. I like it here, don't get me wrong. But I do know that someday I will reside in a place where the tall high rises and the smells of smog and roasted nuts will be replaced with fresh evergreen trees, flowers and campfire.

My 2 year NYC anniversary is coming up and what better way to spend it than by moving into a new apartment (for the 394839493 time). Even though I have become a professional at moving, this time around is going to be different. I feel more confident in the process (being that I have more control over my living situation) and I am actually excited to find a place that I can call home for another year or two. I envision having a kitchen with lemon painted walls with our pots and pans hanging from cork board just like how Julia has it in the movie Julie and Julia. I'd also like to invest in a garlic mincer along with glass mixing bowls and a food processor. Can you tell I've grown a passion for cooking lately? That should be added as number 11 on the list.

All in all life is good. I think it is too easy to fall on my knees with my head in my hands. I refuse to waste too much time over thinking. Balance balance balance. We all need it. We all crave it.

I don't expect anything

2010-06-23T06:08:00.001-07:00

cloudy wednesdays

2010-06-16T10:18:00.001-07:00

I was just thinking

2010-05-20T07:09:00.001-07:00

What's going on in your head

2010-05-18T09:58:00.001-07:00

Life on the go go

2010-05-16T17:33:00.000-07:00

baby Jesus isn't the only one who can do it...

2010-05-14T09:44:00.000-07:00

disconnected (april 8, 2010)

2010-05-13T10:32:00.001-07:00

A blog post I started writing over a month ago...

As I grow older I become more self aware and selfish of my own needs and wants. I crave things, I aspire to be a certain way and I put a fair amount of emphasis on what seems to be unattainable goals. Recently I have been doing some Spring cleaning in hopes to find perspective on what is really "important". I am four months shy of turning the big 2-7 and I feel like I've been tediously self assessing every aspect of my life. To help analyze everything I have broken my life into a few categories. Health, Happiness and Heritage. Keeping in mind there are subcategories to every category I will try to break my thought down as simple as possible.

Looks like I've got some writing to do...

Reserrection Fern

2010-05-13T10:27:00.000-07:00

"Only by breaking rules do we discover who we are" - Jerry Rubin

2010-05-10T14:43:00.001-07:00

I've had this on repeat all day

2010-05-05T10:07:00.000-07:00

wants

2010-05-04T09:57:00.000-07:00

Yes, another youtube video...

2010-04-29T20:20:00.000-07:00

This was sent to me in an email from TNT (Team in Training). Nike is ridiculous. If this isn't inspiring then I'm not sure what is. Also, I recognize that I have been posting a lot of youtube videos lately and I apologize. I started writing a blog and have yet to finish, more so because I can't seem to finish my thought. Any how, I will finish writing soon, I promise.

For now, enjoy...

Great movie, even better song

2010-04-27T21:03:00.000-07:00

all of my days

2010-04-25T17:22:00.001-07:00

I have been very thankful lately...

2010-04-20T09:39:00.000-07:00

Beach Baby

2010-04-16T08:22:00.000-07:00

here & there

2010-04-13T07:43:00.001-07:00

I think its about time I

2010-04-12T08:13:00.000-07:00

1) start painting again
2) write more short stories
3) lace up my running shoes
4) go to a museum at least once every other week
5) stay in touch with old pals
6) research Artist Residency programs (domestic & international) for next year???
7) plan a camping trip
8) stop drinking coffee
9) get back into slapping bums
10) take a deep breath

xoxoxo

Amazing

2010-04-12T08:04:00.000-07:00

I watched this last night via Netflix (it's currently streaming) and I give it 2 thumbs up!

If you're not moved by this in any way shape or form then you might have to plan a visit to the doctors office to make sure you have a pulse. I think I have found a new motivation to save $$$, become more economically friendly and gain a better perspective on how we can help create a sustainable way of living even in the big apple.

Enjoy

PS Kudos for my roommate Tara for introducing me to this documentary :)

i've been facebookless for 5 days now and it makes me feel like this...

2010-04-08T10:44:00.000-07:00

cravings

2010-04-05T14:34:00.000-07:00

an excerpt from an email to a friend...

2010-04-04T13:35:00.000-07:00

Today I caught myself reminiscing my earliest memories of Easter. They mostly consisted of white wicker furniture, deviled eggs and white chocolate shaped bunnies. I couldn't help but smile. I also remembered one of the last Easters where my sister still believed in the Easter Bunny. My mother attempted to save my sisters childhood by using baby powder to make bunny prints in the carpet. I remember thinking how much of an idiot Joc was for falling for it. We got Pogs in our basket that year.

I feel like something is missing lately and I haven't put my finger on it just yet. Life is one big scavenger hunt sometimes.

top 10 things to fight off stress

2010-04-02T12:43:00.000-07:00

1) yoga
2) long hot showers
3) sex
4) tea
5) walking on a nice day
6) picnics-brunch
7) reading-writing-sketching
8) watching old movies
9) bon iver
10) hugs

spring sprang sprung

2010-04-02T12:22:00.000-07:00

Is this for real??

2010-04-01T21:03:00.000-07:00

Health

2010-03-10T10:02:00.000-08:00

My immune system has been out of wack for the past month or so. I haven't felt 100% and it's starting to take a toll on my every day living. As we all get older we need to pay better attention as to what we consume and how we find physical fitness.

I ate at a Macrobiotic Restaurant last night and got inspired.

What is the Macrobiotic Diet?

The word "macrobiotic" comes from Greek roots and means "long life". The macrobiotic diet and philosophy were developed by a Japanese educator named George Ohsawa, who believed that simplicity was the key to optimal health.

The diet Ohsawa recommended included ten progressively restrictive stages. The last stage of Ohsawa's macrobiotic diet consisted only of brown rice and water. Due to its extreme restriction, Ohsawa's version of the macrobiotic diet is no longer recommended by macrobiotic diet counselors.

Michio Kushi expanded on Ohsawa's macrobiotic theory and opened the Kushi Institute in Boston in 1978. Together with his wife Aveline, Kushi published many books on macrobiotics and was responsible for popularizing the diet in North America.
Why do People Follow the Macrobiotic Diet?

Typically, people interested in the macrobiotic diet are seeking a healthy way of eating that integrates physical, spiritual, and planetary health.

The macrobiotic diet is a low-fat, high fiber diet that is a predominantly vegetarian diet, emphasizing whole grains and vegetables. In addition, the macrobiotic diet is rich in phytoestrogens from soy products.

Because low-fat, high fiber diets are often recommended for cancer and other chronic diseases, the macrobiotic diet has been used by people with these conditions. The phytoestrogen content may be protective and reduce the risk of estrogen-related cancers such as breast cancer. However, further research is needed to clarify whether the macrobiotic diet is effective in cancer prevention and treatment.

People with serious medical conditions such as cancer or AIDS should always seek proper medical care. Some people try the diet because they heard it can cure their disease, but reseach has not substantiated these claims.
What are the Guidelines of the Macrobiotic Diet?

* Whole grains typically make up 50 to 60% of each meal. Whole grains include brown rice, whole wheat berries, barley, millet, rye, corn, buckwheat, and other whole grains. Rolled oats, noodles, pasta, bread, baked goods, and other flour products can be eaten occasionally.

* Soup. One to two cups or bowls of soup per day. Miso and shoyu, which are made from fermented soybeans, are commonly used.

* Vegetables typically make up 25 to 30% of the daily food intake. Up to one-third of the total vegetable intake can be raw. Otherwise, vegetables should be steamed, boiled, baked, and sauteed.

* Beans make up 10% of the daily food intake. This includes cooked beans or bean products such as tofu, tempeh, and natto.

* Animal products. A small amount of fish or seafood is typically consumed several times per week. Meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy are usually avoided. Fish or seafood are eaten with horseradish, wasabi, ginger, mustard, or grated daikon to help the body detoxify from the effects of fish and seafood.

* Seeds and nuts in moderation. Seeds and nuts can be lightly roasted and salted with sea salt or shoyu.

* Local fruit can be consumed several times a week. Includes apples, pears, peaches, apricots, grapes, berries, melons, and other fruit. Tropical fruit such as mango, pineapple, and papaya is usually avoided.

* Desserts are permitted in moderation, approximately two to three times per week. Desserts can be enjoyed by people who are in good health. Emphasize naturally sweet foods such as apples, squash, adzuki beans, and dried fruit. Natural sweeteners such as rice syrup, barley malt, and amazake can be used. Sugar, honey, molasses, chocolate, carob, and other sweeteners are avoided.

* Cooking oil is typically unrefined vegetable oil. One of the most common oils used is dark sesame oil. Other oils that are recommended are light sesame oil, corn oil, and mustard seed oil.

* Condiments and seasonings include natural sea salt, shoyu, brown rice vinegar, umeboshi vinegar, umeboshi plums, grated ginger root, fermented pickles, gomashio (roasted sesame seeds), roasted seaweed, and sliced scallions.

Diet guidelines are individualized based on factors such as climate, season, age, gender, activity, and health needs.
What are the Strengths of the Macrobiotic Diet?

The macrobiotic diet emphasizes foods that tend to be lacking in the North American diet, such as fiber-rich whole grains, vegetables, and beans. It is low in saturated fat and high in phytoestrogens, which proponents believe may help to balance female hormones and help with menopause, premenstrual syndrome, and prevention against breast cancer and endometriosis.

In addition, the macrobiotic diet is low in meat, dairy products, and sugar.
What are the Precautions and Possible Side Effects?

The macrobiotic diet is considered by some nutritionists to be too restrictive and lacking in certain nutrients, such as protein, vitamin B12, iron, magnesium, and calcium. Lack of energy may result from inadequate protein.

History repeats itself

2010-03-07T10:14:00.000-08:00

oh heck yes

2010-03-06T08:39:00.001-08:00

Sketchbook Project

2010-03-03T09:46:00.000-08:00

Art House Co-Op is all kinds of wonderful. To participate in their monthlies Sketchbook Project sign up today. It's a great opportunity to get back in the swing of things; art wise. Plus it's fun and the openings are a blast.

copy and paste this into your browser (for some reason I can't get it to be a link on the page)

http://arthousecoop.com/projects/sketchbookmonthliesmarch

Spring Fever

2010-03-01T19:27:00.000-08:00

Bring it on

FM Radio

2010-03-01T13:47:00.001-08:00

mood board

2010-03-01T10:09:00.000-08:00

fupas and dinosaurs

2010-03-01T10:06:00.000-08:00

I miss college

ladies & gentleman

2010-02-28T20:33:00.000-08:00

I'd like to introduce to you, Mr. Ryan Gibeau

Ryan Gibeau at Spike Hill 1 from Sean Glass on Vimeo.

xoxo

You never know...

2010-02-28T09:08:00.000-08:00

An email sent to Bon Iver's manager:

Hello Kyle, how are you? I was wondering (and I recognize how far fetched this request is) if Bon Iver has any plans on touring in the NYC area? I see that he only has Cincinnati, OH scheduled. I'd be more than smitten if he played in New York City. I'm sure scheduling doesn't exactly work via request. Never the less, it doesn't hurt trying now does it?

All the Best,

Nicole

busy

2010-02-26T16:17:00.000-08:00

I've been busy lately and have fallen off the blogging band wagon. A lot has been happening, change is good. I will update soon and until then enjoy a little Bon Iver. He's up there with Ray Lamontagne in my books.

i can make it anywhere

2010-02-06T17:17:00.000-08:00

saturday

2010-02-06T17:02:00.000-08:00

bridesmaid heaven

2010-02-01T10:48:00.000-08:00

I spy...

2010-01-31T12:10:00.001-08:00

Song for the Angels

2010-01-31T09:46:00.001-08:00

the polaroid lives on

2010-01-24T21:46:00.000-08:00

throw back

2010-01-23T10:59:00.001-08:00

sand art...taken to an entirely new level

2010-01-13T11:26:00.000-08:00

Skinny Love

2010-01-11T13:00:00.000-08:00

greetings from hong kong

2010-01-11T11:47:00.000-08:00

this is a song for anyone...

2010-01-11T11:40:00.001-08:00

i miss this face

2010-01-10T08:40:00.000-08:00

oh ny...

2010-01-08T19:59:00.001-08:00

Sycamore down

2010-01-08T19:47:00.001-08:00

new found addiction

2010-01-04T23:28:00.000-08:00

I have recently discovered MTV's Jersey Shore and I have to admit, it is my new guilty pleasure. To think that it is possible to both love and hate something so passionately just astounds me.

Here is an SNL clip that plays tribute to 'Snooki'.

It gets me every time.

broski's

2010-01-01T16:41:00.001-08:00

2010

2009-12-31T14:32:00.000-08:00

I would like to take the opportunity to wish everyone a safe and happy new year. I am excited for a new beginning, a chance to make more of myself and continue to learn and grow as an individual. A few things on my new year 'to do' list, also known as "resolutions" if you will...

1) Keep my head held high
2) Take more risks
3) Breath
4) Read more books
5) Drink less beer
6) Maintain a workout regimen
7) Write more snail mail
8) Enjoy life as a process without becoming overwhelmed with the 'big picture'
9) Find financial stability
10) Make more arts and fart and crafts
11) Make out more often then none

Those are the top eleven.

ENJOY! P-A-R-T-Y! AND BE SAFE!

american mouth

2009-12-30T11:54:00.000-08:00

to live will be a great adventure

2009-12-30T09:54:00.000-08:00

An excerpt from a conversation I had with a good friend of mine. This is my response on life and how we should be living it.

When did we as adults become so hesitant to live our lives? I don't understand when the moment happened when subconscious became real and our intuitions were struck by acts of fear. What is there to fear? Everything that society/our minds tell us to be afraid of isn't real. There are no tangible reasons for fearing anything. Money? Money is a number, a stupid number. Consequences? What is consequence without risk? Risk? There is simply nothing to lose.

Life is about the process, the journey. If you can't find peace with yourself in the moment of things then why bother? "Things", "life" can change at any given moment and we as humans are not always conditioned to be flexible. I think the best ideology to live life is nothing short than to live it to the fullest. That of course can be and will be subjective to each individual. It is up to us to create our own definition of what "happiness" is. It won't be the same as everyone else, nor should it. I think we have lost sight of what is real and what really matters in life. The best part of everything is that we have full control over everything. We can determine our own destiny. What a great adventure that is.

nh

2009-12-30T00:42:00.001-08:00

winter birds

2009-12-24T12:12:00.000-08:00

lil burnor

2009-12-21T08:58:00.000-08:00

I can't wait to snuggle

east to west

2009-12-20T13:58:00.000-08:00

I miss this face

tis the season

2009-12-20T12:25:00.000-08:00

i'm yours with a lil twist

2009-12-13T06:59:00.001-08:00

ms molly

2009-12-09T12:05:00.000-08:00

hold onto nothing

2009-12-07T09:08:00.000-08:00

lil one

2009-12-05T22:36:00.000-08:00

MacBook Pro

2009-12-05T22:28:00.000-08:00

Gray or Blue

2009-11-19T10:05:00.001-08:00

it's been a while...

2009-11-19T09:58:00.000-08:00

An extended apology goes out to everyone, I've been neglected updating but am ready to get back to it.

Here are a few updates...

1) I resigned from my job with AmeriCorps about a month ago.
2) I chose to couch hop/nanny until I "figured it out"
3) I am trying to figure out housing at the moment...I'm 99% sure I'll be moving to Queens very soon
4) I started my internship with another gallery type project called GloveBox.
5) I need another part time job to help sustain my living and habits...

Everything is going in the "right" direction. I'm looking forward to what is "next".

October 16th

2009-09-28T08:26:00.001-07:00

Hiphopopotamus vs. Rhymenoceros

2009-09-25T13:15:00.000-07:00

The Bestest...

miss

2009-09-24T13:48:00.001-07:00

insightful

2009-08-27T11:57:00.000-07:00

The Invitation
Oriah Mountain Dreamer
Canadian Teacher and Author

It doesn't interest me what you do for a living
I want to know what you ache for
and if you dare to dream of meeting your heart's longing.

It doesn't interest me how old you are
I want to know if you will risk looking like a fool
for love
for your dreams
for the adventure of being alive.

It doesn't interest me what planets are squaring your moon...
I want to know if you have touched the center of your own sorrow
if you have been opened by life's betrayals
or have become shrivelled and closed
from fear of further pain.

I want to know if you can sit with pain
mine or your own
without moving to hide it
or fade it
or fix it.

I want to know if you can be with joy
mine or your own
if you can dance with wildness
and let the ecstasy fill you to the tips of your
fingers and toes
without cautioning us to
be careful
be realistic
to remember the limitations of being human.

It doesn't interest me if the story you are telling me
is true.
I want to know if you can
disappoint another
to be true to yourself.
If you can bear the accusation of betrayal
and not betray your own soul.
If you can be faithless
and therefore trustworthy.

I want to know if you can see Beauty
even when it is not pretty
every day.
And if you can source your own life
from its presence.

I want to know if you can live with failure
yours and mine
and still stand on the edge of the lake
and shout to the silver of the full moon,
"Yes."

It doesn't interest me
to know where you live or how much money you have.
I want to know if you can get up
after a night of grief and despair
weary and bruised to the bone
and do what needs to be done
to feed the children.

It doesn't interest me who you know
or how you came to be here.
I want to know if you will stand
in the center of the fire
with me
and not shrink back.

It doesn't interest me where or what or with whom
you have studied.
I want to know what sustains you
from the inside
when all else falls away.

I want to know if you can be alone
with yourself
and if you truly like the company you keep
in the empty moments.

cravings

2009-08-26T12:15:00.001-07:00

lately

2009-08-24T18:47:00.001-07:00

summer soundtrack

2009-08-01T12:03:00.000-07:00

check'em outtt:::

2009-07-16T13:55:00.001-07:00

Check out the new digs. This is where it's at.

www.dancepartymassacre.com

britain's finest

2009-07-16T07:44:00.000-07:00

no bueno

2009-07-15T06:34:00.000-07:00

if i had netflix

2009-07-14T10:27:00.000-07:00

today's soundtrack includes...

2009-07-14T10:18:00.000-07:00

parlez vous francais?

2009-07-14T07:22:00.000-07:00

I'd like to get back into it...

want/need

2009-07-13T18:13:00.000-07:00

the past thirty days or so...

2009-07-13T17:50:00.000-07:00

back in business

2009-07-13T10:28:00.000-07:00

I recognize that I have been away from the blogging world for far too long. Life has taken a toll on the busy side and I have lost sight of the proverbial balance of things.

A few updates:

1) I recently took a trip to Kenya. There will be pictures to come.
2) I have been home sick. I will be taking a trip to NH this weekend so those feelings should subside.
3) I want to go fishing.
4) I am enjoying my first summer in NYC; full of foolish shenanigans and beer.
5) My ducks are slowly getting their act together...
6) I submitted work to the Canvas Show
7) I need a babysitting job
8) I have the travel bug

and 9) Life is pretty darn good right now. I have a wonderful support system and I am forever thankful to have those important individuals in my life. I am pleased to say that there are no major complaints and I look forward to what the future has to offer.

xo