Do yoga with me

I really can't explain how happy I am to have discovered doyogawithme.com. Loving my yoga and doing my daily Pippa time has over the years become more important to me than I ever could have thought it would. There were times when I would be very stressed if I couldn't make it to yoga, which is complete the opposite of how I should feel. I tried many many times to make the most out of myself and do yoga "a la Pippa solo styles" and I could never take myself seriously. I'd end up laughing, pausing and before I knew it falling asleep. 

After doing some research I discovered doyogawithme.com and it has not only saved me but improved my practice, taught me new styles, assisted me in deep meditations when I can't sleep and has been a friend on the road. The yin and restorative classes are my down time and the others my challenge. You can stream the classes or purchase audio and full classes. 

Do yourself a favour and doyogawithme. Use it, explore it and if you can, donate. 

Namaste,

Pippa 

Best road side food stop ever...

Cruising from Cascais to Sintra and back made for an incredible sunny afternoon, and just when I thought it couldn't get any better, I was introduced to this delicious fresh concoction of chourico (Portuguese sausage) wrapped in bread. They are made fresh on the spot and put into the fire oven while you wait. If they aren't fresh and ready to come out, luckily the ladies will happily serve you a fresh cold beer.

If I understood correctly the couple are a school bus driver and school teacher during the school months and do this in the summer. Coolest teacher and bus driver ever.

Luckily close by there is also a market with fresh fruits, veggies, honey....all you nee, as well as an adorable cafe on the corner where I wished to have had a much bigger stomach to indulge on treats. 

Do the drive, enjoy the view, share the road and indulge. 

Incredibly satisfied,

Pippa

Aerosol taste and waste

So, I am trying to understand the point of aerosol sprays. 

I was in the changeroom at yoga the other day and a lady used an aerosol deodorant and I am more than positive that 75% of what she sprayed ended up in the eyes, ears and mouths of everyone else in the room. I have asthma and could barely breathe. I had to hide in the corner. I see people using it as sunscreens on the beach and others as hairspray. 

The amount of product that is wasted while using these sprays as well as the pollution is irritating and infuriating. It is not just the amount of chemicals that are released into the air that is bad, but all the chemicals that Are being breathed in while using the product and the canister itself is hard to rid of. The extent of air pollution from aerosol deodorants has been proven to be so toxic that Unilever was fined in 2010 for having such a negative impact on California's environment. 

I actually bought an aerosol deodorant before writing this to see why someone would buy one, and I cannot figure it out. Within the first second of the spray, I was blinded and choking and ended up being held hostage in the farthest room from my room for about 10 minutes until the smell disappeared. The deodorant was on my chest, back and arms, on my bed and on my lampshade. It also tastes disgusting. I don't get it. 

There are so many natural and healthier options to get protection from stinky arm pits, sunshine and frizzy hair. They may take a bit of work to prepare, but once you get the hang of it it is easy, much cheaper and very fulfilling. 

http://wellnessmama.com/1409/seven-natural-homemade-substitues-for-conventional-beauty-products/

Think before you buy and those who are around you. 

Environmentally yours,

Pippa

Strong woman. Delicate gesture.

Yesterday I popped into a Pingo Doce in the little Cascais mall to buy a few veggies for a salad. I had carrots and cucumber in mind and as always, was seduced by tomatoes, ginger and beans. My arms were overflowing as I was distracted by some chocolate and out of nowhere this woman, the butcher, popped up and had a plastic bag in hand offering to put my veggies in it. I was speechless. It was so simple and so unexpected. I would want her working for me! 

Such simple gestures that leave such a mark. 

Thank you my dear butcher lady. I will be back. 

Pippa 

Paddleboard yoga.... Where are you?

Well, here I am, back in lovely Cascais, Portugal. An easy 30 minutes from Lisbon, along the coast. The weather is a little drizzly but the surroundings are always amazing. The food, coffee, people and views. Yesterday I went to the Oceanarium on the Expo grounds in Lisbon where I was able to meet some beautiful turtles, the famous and oh so cute otters and a huge selection of other life forms that fill our oceans. An amazing place for kids and adults. 

Today, I am craving a feeling I have had for a while. I was very lucky last year to get to Whitefish, Montana. Such a beautiful place in itself, but being able to do my first stand-up paddleboard yoga class was amazing. I love my headstands and a successful headstand on a board gave me a completely different feeling. The balance, the connection to water, the fresh air - I don't think I had a care in the world for those moments. Nothing could have fazed me. 

Today, I want to find somewhere to offer me this feeling again. I understand and am planning in advance for it to be a little more challenging on the ocean rather than a lake, but this will be fun. 

I will keep you posted. 

If you ever have the chance to try stand-up paddleboarding, do it. And if you can add a yoga class, do that. I am a Libra so balance is heavily ingrained, but this feeling is a feeling for everyone. 

Namaste,

Pippa

Vueling a let down, but back to lovely lovely Portugal

Well I flew Vueling for my first time. The check-in process was good and speedy but I was upset by the fact that my seat had chocolate all over it and when I asked if they could clean it or find me another seat the air hostess was not very useful. She said she couldn't move because they were refuelling the plane. After about 15 minutes of awkwardly shifting around people because I could not sit down, I went back to the washroom and got the necessary tools and did it myself. 

What if: she either called to the back for someone to do it, or after the fact, offered me a free drink or a chocolate bar - as a cheeky apology. Instead, she completely ignored the situation. 

They did however have great music playing which made the boarding time a little more exciting. 

I fell asleep and landed in beautiful Portugal so I quickly forgot about the chocolate. 

Sunshine and salt water,

Pippa

Cheap car rentals in Portugal?!

So, something has come up and I am so lucky. I am getting the chance to go back to Portugal for six weeks. However, I need to rent a car. I understand it is peak season, but, wow, I simply cannot afford it. Does anyone have any suggestions for the best cheap rental? I have looked at National, Budget, Thrifty, Europecar, Expedia, Kayak .... All of the sites. 

There used to be something called rent-a-wreck but all of those sites are a little curious...

If you have any tips please let me know!

Maybe I'll rent a bike and a trailer... Or....

Pippa 

final TIPS for Amsterdam

Although I am not sure I can say FINAL tips because I had such an amazing time and of course I hope to go back soon, these are just a few final thoughts that have stuck out from Amsterdam.

RESTAURANT
I was so incredibly lucky to be introduced to the Indonesian restaurant TEMPO DOELOE.

http://www.tempodoeloerestaurant.nl/

We were able to sneak in for an hour before the next reservation however luckily the news that the reservation had been pushed back allowed us to relax a little more, indulge in the spices, textures and luckily a dessert. I love spicy food so when we asked for it to be spicy, luckily we were told that the extra spice would come on the side because SPICE in Indonesia is serious spice. We had the share platter so were able to test everything and attacked the platter as guided by the waiter - from left to right as the food spice increased. The dessert was the most delicate cake I have ever eaten and the overall experience was amazing. Thank you.


SHOPPING/DEALS!
Need shoes or boots? Head to OUTLET KALVERSTRAAT - 151 Kalverstraat (a big pedestrian shopping street in Amsterdam). Although I was hesitant to head to this area as it is PACKED with shoppers, I am happy I did.  I stumbled upon a great shoe store, an outlet. All boots are 40.00euros, maybe the shoes as well but I am was on a boot mission. I bought two pairs and the best part was a few doors down the exact same boots were more than twice the price. Such a nice feeling!!! One pair was regular 139.95 and the other 149.95. The service was sweet and attentive and I left very happy. Good luck!

CAFE/RESTAURANT
I will not get into this too much because well the entire thing was an awful experience. I went with two friends for coffee and a small lunch on my last day to a restaurant called GESPOT.  The service was awful and slow. With 4 waiters and not many customers, I am not sure how that place is managed. The order was wrong, the food (toasted sandwiches) took over 40 minutes and were not even toasted. Our coffees were cold, I ordered a mint tea and to add more water they wanted me to pay for an extra tea. The entire experience was awful. We all left hungry, thirsty and frustrated. This cafe is in a touristy area, however this should not be an excuse. Although the website may look promising, do yourself a favor, go to Bagels and Beans down the road.

http://www.restaurant-gespot.nl/

It really is a shame as the location, design and building are amazing.


CHOCOLATE
PUCCINI BOMBONI - thank you!
These are works of art, delicious and the variety of flavors are to die for! I have no idea how I did it, but I made my 4 last a few days - luckily they are a good size as well so you can cut them into 2 or 3 pieces. The chocolates are all made on location with natural ingredients therefore 7-10 days is the max you can keep them.

I am drooling writing this right now.

http://www.puccinibomboni.com/

I devoured the Ginger, Lemongrass, Paprika and Aniseed. These made up for the GESPOT let down. 

 

Well, as mentioned, I could absolutely keep writing about Amsterdam. Such an incredible city, happy people, great service and it has completely reminded me of the city I want to live in and HOW a city should feel.

I hope you are able to experience it one day,
Pippa

Happy Canada Day

 

Dearest Canada. I miss you. So so much. 

 Your mountains, oceans, lakes, ponds, streams and vast fields and forest. Your friendly customs agents and sometimes over the top but now highly appreciated customer service. Your multiculturalism and delicious selection of restaurants. Your coffee shops and brunch spots. Your independent movie rentals and one of a kind clothing boutiques. Your dirty music venues and groggy humidity. The Don Valley where people look grumpy but still aren't honking none stop and swearing at everyone. Your cowboys and fishermen, hitchhikers and truckers. Your clean-ish sidewalks and hipsters. Plaid and beards. Fresh air and country jams. Smiling at strangers and hanging in the park with whoever is there. Cottage country and fireflies. Bonfires and not giving a shit about what you are wearing. Our acceptance of who people love and how people dress. Hippies and juice bars. Vegetarian restaurants and Fish and Chips. Riding bikes and public toilets. Incredible music scene, seasonal yummy produce and the best drinking water. Friendly and beautiful yoga studios and decadent muffins. Poets and authors, actors and athletes.Patios and delicious hamburgers. BBQ's and corn on the cob. The Northern Lights and Wildlife.  Smalltown folk charm and post offices, movie rentals and convenience stores all in one.  Canoes and fur. Pow wows and sweat lodges. Kale and hemp seeds. 

I could go on and on. 

 I wish you the best birthday ever!!!!!

Pippa

Two for joy

An exciting phone call arriving at the same time as my coffee lead me to have iced coffee on a day that iced coffee was not necessary. I asked the guys at the counter if they could just heat it up for me, and the response....

"Heat it up? No way, that won't be good. I'll just make you a fresh one." - and a fresh one is what I received. They were happy to do it and I was happy to drink it. The coffee is amazing and the service is great. The vibe is quaint with some wifi, a little terrace for people watching and some good space in the back. 

I later found out that apparently this place is known for some of the best coffee in Amsterdam. Sometimes when places get those titles the service goes down, or an arrogance sets in. not here. 

Do you think the service sways some of those loyal customers? I sure think its some of the best coffee in Amsterdam. 

I want Two For Joy to be my local. 

Pippa

Two For Joy Coffee Roasters

www.twoforjoy.nl

4 Google reviews

Haarlemmerdijk 182hs, Amsterdam

+31 20 221 9552

more info

The Golden Temple, vegetarian restaurant

So, strolling the streets of Amsterdam, as usual, I keep my eyes peeled for the vegetarian restaurants. I am not a vegetarian but I am careful and picky with the meat I eat and love to be inspired by vegetarian restaurants and ideas. 

I spotted a restaurant, The Golden Temple, which was being decorated with fresh hand painting of swirls and Buddhist inspiration and an amazing decor through the window. The menu looked awesome and the vibe easily appreciated. 

After a long sunny boat ride through the canals, I arranged a dinner for 3. We were given a private table on a patio and were instantly drooling over the menu. 2 share platters and a pizza. 

Although the food was good, the idea of a share platter was quickly questioned by only receiving one bread per platter and after having to order more from a waiter who didn't get it, the value was quickly reduced. 

What if: they simply provided a basket of pitas? So simple. So easy. Or let us know that if we wanted more, we just had to ask. Price of pitas - maybe 2 euros, max. Price of happy and repeat customers, priceless.

Yes the food was good, the vibe was cool. Would I go back? For the price of leaving hungry, I'm not too sure. 

Hungry for more,

Pippa

Fairmont Live in Amsterdam

I had the joy of dancing and laughing to the sounds of Fairmont.

https://soundcloud.com/fairmont

Live at Air in Amsterdam where the doormen were lovely, the lockers are useful and the crowd oozed into the sounds of Fairmont. Smooth and chill with bursts of bounce and beats making the dancing fun and the vibe easy. 
Smiles rippled across the floor with hands flying in the air. It was an amazing night and I suggest you check out his new mix that he just posted online. 

Enjoy,

Pippa 

Alberta will beat the floods

I am sure of this because having spent a lot of time in Alberta, mostly Canmore and Calgary, especially in my year before coming over to Europe, I can completely and honestly say that I have felt the biggest sense of community EVER throughout Alberta. They are a beautiful and warm population of people who work hard and want to grow and maintain their community and province.

Many people have negative things to say about Alberta because of their involvement in the Oil and Gas industry, and yes, I have experienced those harsh characters with dollar signs in their eyes, however they forget about the other side - the people who have lived there for years. The real Albertan locals. The cowboys, the mountaineers, the skiers, hikers and farmers. The people who moved there when it was a western province with small cities. Yes, the boom has attracted a lot of negative attention, but it has also attracted an amazing group of young and motivated people with a desire to work hard and play hard. 

My time in Alberta has allowed me to experience a lot of moments that many communities should dream of. The togetherness and pride, the support and drive. The Folk Fest's (Calgary, Canmore and Edmonton), great cafes (The Purple Perk, Rocky Mountain Bagel and Communitea), Yoga studios (Canmore Hot Yoga, Bikram Calgary South and Yoga Santosha), restaurants (Tapas, Famoso and Mercato), amazing Vegetarian Restaurants (the Coup, Nourish and Padmanadi), and of course, the famous Calgary Stampede. I think it was easier to list off amazing places in Alberta than anywhere else I have been. 

Booming cities with mountains just around the corner. Young and inspired people with the locals maintaining the West Coast-ness. Opportunities and Adventure. And I can't forget the incredible amount of wildlife. 

I write this with my heart pouring out to the communities under water and the people who have lost their homes, businesses and belongings, and to those who have even lost family members. I am sad for you all but I know, more than ever, that if any community can pull through, it is you. 

My heart is with you and I hope to be back soon.

Pippa 

How to make a girl feel welcome

I feel so so lucky. I had the absolute pleasure of being introduced to Pasticceria Amsterdam, at the Van Woustraat in the district called De Pijp. I have been here a few times with the owner always running to and from the kitchen in the back and the front counter to chat with customers. The coffee is delicious, the ice cream is incredible and I haven't yet had the chance to dive into the pastries and sandwiches, mostly because I know I won't be able to stop. 

I stopped by the other night for a quick bite of delicious ice cream and as I was leaving I asked if he ever does ginger ice cream. He said not normally, but "I'll make it for you tomorrow". I was flattered and liked the idea but I wasn't going to rely on it. The following day I didn't have the chance to make it over to check and late at night after leaving a friends house I thought I'd take a cruise over just to check, and, holy cow....

They were just closing up, it was almost midnight. I rode my bike right into the front door and said I couldn't make it earlier. He was pointing at the cabinet saying "your ice cream is right there" and he handed me a scoop. Ginger, raspberry and apple. I felt like a princess. 

This is what every community needs. The ice cream, coffee and treats would be the bonus. Just having a lovely person who cares to know and please the customers on such a basic level is what makes everything seem safe and friendly. I feel like a local.

What if every company had some level of genuine community contact like this. I'm not being over the top and expecting this world full of rainbows and butterflies, but these connections are so simple and are what customers are looking for. Even had he not made the ice cream, I have been there almost every day of my time here simply because it is genuinely friendly. They recognize the regulars and the visitors and make everyone feel the same. 

Incredibly happy,

Pippa

Who could hire me

How could I live my dream of travelling and writing? My inspiration and true love of life comes out when I'm travelling. I actually love being in airports, on planes, driving, exploring, eating things I thought I didn't like, meeting people I'd never guess I could meet. You name it. If I'm on the road, I feel fulfilled. How can I turn this into a job? I know there are a million travel writers and bloggers, but maybe I could get hired to judge customer service rather than the quality of the product? A secret shopper?

Who can help me with this?

I'm willing to live and travel anywhere in the world. Honestly. 

I'm 30 and I've lived in Canada, South Africa, Portugal, Australia and France. I've visited Tahiti, Mexico, Cuba, Costa Rica, USA, England, Holland and some more. I have so much more to do and see. 

Suggestions welcome. 

Pippa

Amsterdammitfeelsgood

What an incredible breath of fresh air to get off the train and all of a sudden be surrounded by smiles, colourful clothing and overall chilled out people. A sudden rush of relax pumped through me and the bricks were lifted off my shoulders. Some can argue that I am just relaxed and now amongst family (my sister) and her friends, however there is such a different feeling here. I feel human here. I feel like I am around people who have feelings and want to share them. I feel like I have my soul back. 

I strolled through the incredible Albert Cuypmarkt to find myself genuinely welcomed by local vendors who want you to try their delicious olives, juices, fruits and bread. Rode my bike through the crowded streets where traffic jams and the odd bump are greeted by a smirk and occasionally the roll of the eyes. Store clerks say hello, waiters actually care what you want to eat and baristas make the coffee. They like making your coffee. 

http://www.albertcuypmarkt.nl/ac_english.html

I cannot delve into too much at this point because overall I am just happy being around happy people who are friendly and open. What a world of a difference. 

Pippa

Paris on Wheels - with the Eiffel Tower letting us down....

Well, I just spent an incredible few days playing host to family from overseas. My uncle, his helper, and my cousin were here from South Africa and we had a magical few days. The morning spent hovering over maps planning our days with baguettes and coffee surrounding us and the day spent walking/rolling, talking and laughing none stop. We managed to navigate the narrow side walks and stairs with the wheelchair, we conquered all! From Luxembourg gardens to St Germain and St Michel, Le Grande Epicerie to Notre Dame, Pompidou to Rodin, The Orangerie to The Arc de Triomphe, Chez Janou to Le Tambour, and then the finale of Trocadero to the Eiffel Tower.

Every single place was amazing and accomodating. Moving tables and chairs, putting out ramps and rollers, opening doors that did not exist - you name it, our days were smoothe and nothing could stop us. Until, we got to the Eiffel Tower. Every single place we went let all four of us in through the priority line allowing us to enjoy everything together. The Eiffel Tower, nope, they would only let my uncle and his helper through and my cousin and I would have to stand in the HUGE line, making it impossible for us to go up and enjoy it together; for me to point out what is where and to enjoy this last monument together. Nothing we said would make a difference. We were told they are the rules, if we were little kids it would be fine but but because we are adults we must stand in line. If they let us all up they would have to let everyone else with wheelchairs up.. there was NOBODY else in front or behind us. In fact I am sure my uncle was the ONLY wheelchair at the Eiffel Tower.

So, my uncle and my cousin went up, which was great, and his helper and I sat at the bottom. They still made it up but it sure did put a dull cap on the incredible few days in Paris.

Dear Eiffel Tower,

WHAT IF: you simply said only 4 people up instead of 2 adults and 2 children? Really, what is the difference? It is a mission in itself to make it there with a wheelchair so to allow the group up together would be such a lovely and friendly solution.

If you want any tips of where to go and how to navigate with a wheelchair, just ask. We had a magical magical time.

Pippa

Essential Oils DIY

I try to live my life organically and I attempt to make as many things as possible, especially those which I use regularly. It is fullfilling, fun, and saves alot of money. At home I always have:

• Tea Tree oil : great for cleaning anything ( I use it for my yoga mat, to do laundry, in a spray bottle for around the house), oils for skin irritations, directly on zits, in baths, shampoo and body soap. It is a miracle oil. 
• Peppermint oil: baths, digestion
• Eucalyptus: in the shower for a DIY steam room
• Lavender: occasional dab on my wrists or in hair, in candles for around the house, under the pillow to help me sleep - however I have the occasional allergy to it
• Patchouli: a dab on my wrists, occasionally added to my laundry soap, to release my inner hippy in a HUGE city

CLICK HERE for Great link for essential oil essentials - and an overall great website

I hope you enjoy this. I love these little projects!!

Pippa

"Grouponers" really don't get it.....and I do not mean the customers.

Since coming to Paris I have taken advantage of Groupon/Living Social deals, and all the other websites alike. Mostly for dinners, as in Paris they do not come cheap. I have been to 3 restaurants and I truly feel that none of them understand the point of advertising with coupon companies.... Get the customers in the door so that THEY WILL BE REPEAT CUSTOMERS!

Each experience I have left thinking

• They gave me yesterdays produce/meat/wine
• They seated me at the worst table
• I was treated differently/horribly!
• I WILL NEVER COME BACK - and in fact I will tell people to NEVER go!

My experience last night at PARIS 9 was just that.
When we got there they were friendly and then we said we had a coupon. They sat us in the side room, completely seperate from the restaurant. I asked to move to the room with "action", they did move us but we were not receiving the same attention the others were. The "deal" was for a their steak for 2 at 50% off. On the menu it states:

Fiorentina
Côte de bœuf XXL à la fiorentina (pour 2 personnes), pommes de terre
frites au couteau, haricots verts et sauce gorgonzola

We recieved a steak with more fat than meat, and chips. Thats it. I asked for the green beans (haricots verts) and we were charged an extra 5 euros, with no "sauce gorgonzola". I waited 10 minutes for them to bring mustard and until we were finished our meal, they did not come over once to ask how anything was. 

I will not go back. I will never suggest it. They do not get it. And, I am finished with coupons.

WHAT IF:

•  they asked us which table we would like
• brought us a taste of a homemade starter or a sip of something yummy to get our taste buds excited
• told us that initially the beans etc would not be included but they will be including them for us

If all of this happened, I can guarantee the fatty meat would not have upset us.

Since I am on the topic of EXPENSIVE, I feel like the worst cousin in the world. My cousins are visiting for a few days and we met and went for a drink. We should have just bought some gold instead. What on earth justifies a drink on a terrace of a cafe/bar costing over 10euros - which unless its sprinkled with Fairy dust and truffles I still do not understand that price. Last night at Cafe Delmas in the 5th,

1 pint of 1664 (beer)    13.00

1 gin and tonic               15.50

1 Pastis                         6.00

1 ginger ice tea               13.00

TOTAL                        48.20 for a round of drinks.

WHAT IF:

• they had brought a nice selection of olives or a steaming bowl of homemade fries to the table and offered a carafe of water? 

Their cost, 2euros. Their gain, our return.

RIDICULOUS.

I would love to know your thoughts on whether or not I am unreasonable or if this is just simply INSANE. 

Pippa

Nothing speaks louder than your body!

So, I have been practicing Bikram Yoga for just over 4 years now. I am a strong practitioner, a bit of an A-type in the studio. I am my biggest competition. I love the yoga, it has changed my life, but I have gone through fazes of not being sure if it is helping my body or not. I have had serious back pains, leg pains, knots and kinks, you name it. I am often told that for strong students like me these things tend to happen, to the extreme.

Since I have moved to Paris I have internalized alot of stress and after just 2 weeks of being here my yoga practice had completely changed, for the worse. I was used to a quite flexible practice, which I worked hard for. I was used to making it quite far in certain postures, standing forehead to knee, backbends, balancing... I was proud of myself. 2 weeks in Paris and I felt like I had never done yoga before. I was blocked.

I wont get into too many details but I have felt like a weak and ill person. I have been very confused and frustrated as I eat very well (with some indulgences), I have a regular yoga practice, I don't over indulge on alcohol or cigarettes - I consider myself healthy. I have been experiencing serious knee and back problems, taking me to the osteopath. My asthma has returned after 16 years. I have had rashes, cold sores and headaches. Am I allergic to Paris? Is this a sign I should not be here?

I went to yoga last week after a month off during some adjustments with my osteopath. I made it through the first two standing series' and then we hit the floor. I was taking the class easy, we got to Cobra and all of a sudden something happened. I have no idea what and I tried not to be dramatic, but my back was having spasms, I could not lie still or move, I could not breathe, my legs were shaking. I was trying to not be scared but I was. I set my pride aside and left the room.

The owner, an osteopath, quickly came to help me. Knowing NOTHING about me, he adjusted and settled me and said "there is a vampire taking your energy and it is time to live for yourself. Nobody but yourself". I cried. What does this mean?

I have reflected and spoken with people and just allowed what happened to happen. I feel a weight lifted as I think something told me to just enjoy the now but to really concentrate on myself. It is really intense when your body tells you things like this.

So, I went back to the studio yesterday and I felt like a new student. Some energy has been released, my balance and knees are still a bit sore and my spine series is tight, but I am now much more aware of the idea of listening to your body. It is all we have. In the end, it is me, myself and I.

Listen to your body. Listen to your gut, your back, your shoulders, your knees. Heal and care for yourself.

Namaste,
Pippa

Carrots aren't just for eating - best skin ever!

Forget all of this rage in stores and magazines now for BB cream - whatever the promise is for this new fad. I have discovered Carrot Oil.

I use it every morning. Nothing else. I use Almond or Avocado oil to remove my mascara and other than that, in the morning I always finish my shower with freezing cold water and then splash my face with freezing cold water again and put on carrot oil and my skin has never been better. You get a little bit of colour on your face as well due to the carotene and my face is clear, CLEAR, nothing!!!! I also feel like my little bit of aging that I was seeing has settled and my skin tone is completely even. 

I have had very sensitive skin my entire life. I have bought products upward of 70.00$ and done magical maintenance routines which have done nothing but burn my skin. Now, wake up, cold water, carrot oil and thats it. Oh and it costs about 8.00 Euros.

You can buy it at a health food store, mine I bought at Monoprix here in France. LOVEA is the name, and I love it! 5 drops every morning massaged into your face and neck! If you can find an organic carrot oil, it is best. MELVITA makes one.

You sure cannot beat a completely natural solution for your face. No alcohol, additives - nothing. Never forget, everything you put on your skin gets ingested through your skin. 

I really hope this helps. It has changed my life!!!

Pippa

I owe more to Portugal

I feel like I owe much more to Portugal. My visit there was magical, as always. The people are lovely, the food is amazing, it is ridiculously cheap and so so beautiful. Having spent a lot of my summer there growing up, unfortunately, it is also quite sad.

 I spent a lot of my time in a beautiful fishing village west of Lisbon called Cascais. I remember the generations of families hanging out on benches, the beaches full of locals and some tourists, the shops catering to the locals, the smell of sardines and cod wafting through the streets. Now all shops are catered to tourists, apparently the locals can barely afford anything local, stores are boarded up and most restaurants are for tourists. 

The economy is the most painful part. As much of Europe, and the world is experiencing, the recession has hit hard. I attempted to buy and eat local as much as possible to support them, however it is hard to decipher what is still owned by locals. 

My favourite beach, west of Cascais, is called Guincho beach. It is surrounded with kite surfers, VW vans and lots of wind. The bar tucked away in the back has had bob Marley on repeat since I first went there over 20 years ago and the salted peppers and caipirinhas are e way to go!

A beautiful town across the being from Lisbon, Alcochete, is also picking up. I hate to write these things because the last thing I want is for it to be invaded by tourists but they need the support of customers. I forget the name of the restaurant and I feel awful for this, but just go there, find a restaurant, and you are guaranteed delicious bacalhau a bras - cod, garlic, olive oil and chips!. The boardwalk is under construction so do yourself a favour and park a bit further out or you will be stuck in serious traffic and people doing 50 point turns.

And finally, Vela Zul. One of the best seafood restaurants in Cascais. Mom and pop hosting the joint tend to have a bit of a rough edge but its all worth it. Their stress comes from making sure e food is great, not because they are rude. The lulas, rice dishes and rice pudding are to die for. Do yourself a favour!

I actually could go on forever. 

Go to Portugal. Support the locals. Hang out and drink wine, listen to fado and just laugh. Rent bikes, relax at the beach, get lost in time in the side streets and castles and eat until you can't anymore. It's all worth it. 

Feel free to send me questions and suggestions. 

Pippa

Even when the weather is drizzly in Paris

There is still a lot to see and do. It actually blows my mind when I think of all the things to do here. Friends have been popping through regularly and it's never hard to show them around. I think the hardest part is to not overindulge on all the French treats which everyone obviously wants to eat. A few of my favourites so far are the ceiling at Galleries Lafayette near opera - go during the week, on a weekend you cannot enjoy it.

A picnic on the grass near the Eiffel Tower, where I have learned that Starbucks associates are very friendly in Paris and will often provide free cups with ice for rosé. A cruise through the Marais with a stop at Le Progres for cheap drinks and food, great people watching and not always awful service. The summer will come soon, but if not, at least it's still pretty. 

Dinner at Chez Janou is guaranteed fun and yum however make a reservation and make sure your entire party is there on time. 80 varieties of Pastis make for a yummy aperitif and do yourself and your friends a favour by ordering the chocolate mousse for desert. Just trust me. 

Ok. Thats it for now. Enjoy. Indulge. 

Pippa

Therapy is Lisbon

There really is something beautiful about Lisbon. About Portugal. About a place where people just constantly want to give love and be hospitable. They want to hear your story, have patience with the language and do everything they can to make you feel at home.

Coming here from Paris has really made me realize that I need these kinds of people in my life. I don't want to bash Paris because it is beautiful and yummy and historical but I am just not sure it is for me. 

So my next question, which has lingered forever in my gut, is how do I find my passion and something I can do that is flexible and mine. How do I find a trade that can allow me to move around and/or work in a country that doesn't have much of an industry. What are my options?

How do I find my passion and what I'm here for? 

I'm hoping that this next week of cruising through the streets of a beautiful and accepting place will instil some drive back in me and inspire something to pick me up and light a fire under my ass. I've been fortunate enough to visit Portugal many times and this feeling of being founded in Portugal never fades. 

I am in no way complaining about what my life is right now. I'm grateful and loving and learning through every moment, I just need my bounce back in my step. I need fulfillment. I've realized how much a job title helps define who we are. As well as the financial independence, socializing, routine and challenges, having a title of some sort helps define who we are on many levels - whether we like our job or not, to ourselves and to others. 

So. Can anyone give me advice on finding our passions and reasons?

I'm open to anything and everything.

A little confused. 

Pippa

Although I have managed to do my share of complaining....

About the French, I must say, I have learned a lot, and continue to learn everyday. I am a believer in being a student of life, and if I am not learning, I am not living. That statement is pretty deep for this lesson I am about to share with you.

Have you ever huffed and puffed while spending 20$ for some plastic supports for your boots? I have, often. But, here I arrive in France, and what a simple solution! 2 litre bottles!

It's cheap, it's recycling and it's perfect!

I hope you get as excited about this as I did.


Pippa

It's like never wearing your favourite perfume

And I have decided that not only am I going to wear my favourite perfume, I'm going to bathe in it.

What I mean is, for the first time in my life, I've decided to throw in my gloves of control - always needing so much control over my life. I think it is eating me alive. Being in Paris has put me in an uncomfortable situation and I believe we learn the most from learning to be comfortable with the uncomfortable. Side note: I can absolutely dedicate that lesson to my four years of Bikram Yoga.

In these past few months in Paris, I have felt the most out of control of my life, ever. I have had bursts of emotions and vulnerabilities. Insanities and manic episodes. Tears of happiness and the saddest I've ever been. I've self diagnosed myself as crazy, depressed, obsessed, the best. I've done it all!

And I think now I have finally come to the feeling, not just the idea, but the feeling, that I am going to, for the first time in my life, spend my savings and enjoy every god damn penny of it. I have worked every single day since I was 13 when my father was diagnosed with an illness (he's better now) and I have always stashed money with a fear that maybe one day there will be an emergency and that money will be needed. In a sense, I guess I've hoarded it. (I think, now that I write this, I've done this with a few things...that's a different post.) There have been emergencies and tragedies but that money has never been needed. Things have worked out and found their place. So, having explored and experienced many emotions in the past few months, I have decided I am going to spend that money and enjoy it. I am going to make the most of my time in Paris and not let the French get the best of me. I'm going to travel Europe, meet friends, visit family, buy pretty things, take poorly paid jobs and just be me. I'm going to let the Universe drive and I will enjoy the ride.

I have always been one to believe in the universe. I'll never forget as a kid missing out on a birthday party and being so upset saying "it's ok, when one door closes another will open", but even though I have always believed this, in my deep down gut and heart of hearts, in those conversations with myself, I am always fighting for control. So, to add to my list of things I'm learning in life, now is my chapter of letting go.

I am excited. I am scared.

EVENING HYMNS in Paris tonight

Please please please, to all in Paris, allow yourself to be seduced by this lovely music this evening. Evening Hymns are visiting our lovely city all the way from Canada and you will be oh so lucky if you can make it out. Their beautiful music and lovely lyrics will leave you speechless and warm your tummy.

http://www.eveninghymns.com/

See you there.

Chick Pea

Cigarette butts in Vitamin Containers? HOW IRONIC, but could it work?

Well, I am sure some will call me a dreamer and others will call me a hippie, but to be honest, I do not care. Here is my project that I would like to propose. I normally do not like to post my ideas online but I do not have any money so my only hope is that some random person may read this and want to help me or one day when I do have the money, I will start to do this.

Vitamins and pharmaceuticals are a HUGE business, especially in France. Yes, I am a customer, I take alot of vitamins - for two reason - I do a lot of hot yoga and therefore I need to replenish my minerals etc, and also, I am not a good sleeper - so I am often thankful for Magnesium. That is another topic. But I know that a huge percentage of the population buys these vitamins.

Walking around Paris and seeing so many people launching their cigarette butts in the street makes me furious. What if there is a way that I could collect all of the vitamin containers and recycle them by converting them into handy little pocket/purse/bag size cigarette butt containers. I know this sounds ridiciulous and so many will tell me it is education of the individual and about how to properly dispose of butts, but whats the harm in trying. What if I could get companies to put an add on them and then they can pay and I could sell them for really cheap or even free? I am a dreamer, but why not? Someone has to try something instead of always falling back on the excuse of education that I hear every single time I bring up the issue of butts and dog shit!

HOW IRONIC. Cigarette butts in vitamin containers...

The thing that makes me question this excuse of EDUCATION is when I see the higher class of this city with Chanel and Louis Vuitton from head to toe with their little dogs shitting everywhere and their cigarette butts flying on the sidewalk from every angle. I am pretty sure they have been "educated" on manners and cleanliness. There is so much more I could say about this subject but I will leave it as it for now.

Share your thoughts. please!
Chick Pea