Eastern Travel Adventure

Hi All, it’s Julie here. I recently returned from a trip that took me on a flight literally over the top of the globe all the way to the Eastern world. The trip began in Phuket, Thailand and ended in Hong Kong, China. The traveling might of left me just slightly defeated, but in the end it was worth every airport lounge and plane ride. It was a truly amazing cultural experience full of inspirational ideas of which I snapped many pictures. The views were stunning, and there was LOTS of adventure. Everything from Thai cooking classes with my husband to high tea at the famed Peninsula Hotel in HK. Not to mention tranditional Thai yoga, scuba diving through coral reefs, elephant rides, lots of fresh mango and the most amazing views of the Andaman Sea right from our villa.

Are you looking to add a slightly exotic twist to your next vacation? Without a doubt in my mind I’d say try one of the stunning beaches and resort towns of Thailand. The people are over the top friendly, prices are squeal-worthy and the fresh produce is out of this world! “Sawatdee Kaa”.

Stop and Hear the Music

Believe it or not, my turn has yet again come up for inspiration day. Where do the days go? I shared a YouTube video and Washington-Post news article entitled “Stop and Hear the Music”. Reflect on this …”If we do not have a moment to stop and listen to one of the best musicians in the world, playing some of the finest music ever written, with one of the most beautiful instruments ever made…How many other things are we missing as we rush through life?”

Today, I encourage you all to free yourself from the constraint of your schedule: live a little and open yourself up to the chaos and beauty in the world around you.

Be Inspired

Our new Feature of the Month is up! In keeping with our belief that this year is going to be the best EVER, we’ve also decided to start taking turns doing little weekly inspiration presentations in the studio. Today I inspired the girls to reflect on their past accomplishments, dream BIG in the new year and remember it is our choice to live life with a pursuit of HAPPYness. I had the girls write down their top 5 accomplishments from the 2011, and reminded them to celebrate those successes. For an added touch, we watched a little movie snippet. It’s one of those moments which perfectly sums up the feeling of achievement when you finally, finally get there.

Anyway, some food for thought… hope you enjoy the feature, the clip and the rest of your day

Hotel Saint Cecilia

I have never stayed at Hotel Saint Cecilia in Austin, but think I might need to make a visit and check it out.  It looks as if you are just staying at someone’s house, with a big back yard and lots of trees.  It’s worth a try.  (Don’t forget to go to Maudie’s for your Mexican food fix!)

Crosby Street Hotel

The Crosby Street Hoteldesigned by architect Paul Taylor and co-owner Kit Kemp, is a fabulous and sophisticated boutique hotel in SoHo. Right in the middle of all the action, but also set a little bit away from too much noise.  Boutique rates can be a little steep, but you can always taste the experience by having cocktails and nibbles at The Crosby Street Bar and Terrace!

Tarallucci E Vino

To indulge in an authentic Italian experience right here in New York, we head over to Tarallucci E Vino [which has three downtown locations]. A quick cappuccino and freshly baked croissant is always a delightful way to start the day.  We love the clean, minimal aesthetic and decor- modern style with Italian flair.  The european style pastry cases and italian food always encourage me to have a glass of wine when eating lunch there!