Happy Holidays!

Experiments in Off Grid Living

I've shared with some already that I'm living in Maine in a lodge that is "off-grid". I like the Wiki definition:

"The term off-the-grid (OTG) can refer to living in a self-sufficient manner without reliance on one or more public utilities. Off-the-grid homes are autonomous; they do not rely on municipal water supply, sewer, natural gas, electrical power grid, or similar utility services."

And ... I love it! After a summer spent living at the Maine Primitive Skills School (MPSS) helping out with marketing and community outreach I felt ready to really live in the woods. Not just in someone's backyard woods with the nearby convenience's of electricity and running water. I met Grandfather Ray briefly last spring and was aware that a few acquaintances had built or rented lodges on his land thanks to +Candi Huber casually mentioning it during one of our MPSS meetings. I clearly remember thinking how intense it all sounded at that moment, but after taking a class with Ray at the end of the summer and touring the property I realized how completely awesome it would be!

@Home in Caanan, Maine

Fast forward three weeks and I'm moving into an Earth Lodge. Since I'd never even heard of these structures just a year ago feel free to navigate here, here, and here and come back to the post once you've read all about what an Earth Lodge is. Fast forward again to present day and I've just returned from a comfortable two week visit to my hometown in the suburbs of Boston for Thanksgiving. Aside from the chaos the squirrels caused while I was away, I was peacefully welcomed home by a bright full moon illuminating the snow on the ground. I noticed that the temperature was significantly lower than it had been in MA, and was steadily dropping (It's gone from 19 to 12 since I've been here) but the lodge was surprisingly comfortable. Now, let's pause briefly to acknowledge that comfort varies widely amount individuals. For example, the summer I came home from Taiwan (where a cool day is 76) during the middle of a heat wave in August I insisted on wearing nylons to a friend's wedding because it was just too cold to go without. I never did feel warm enough in the US that year to wear shorts or a tank top for the rest of the summer. Friends and family thought I was delusional. Now, even in the dead of winter I sleep with the windows open when I visit my parents because 72 seems suffocating compared to the fresh, cool, brisk air outside.

Back to the story at hand. It was definitely cool enough outside to not want to go without gloves for too long, but once inside I really had no desire to start the woodstove. And then I started wondering, would it be possible to go without any heat? Was that safe? Could I freeze to death in my sleep? A quick Google search led me to an entertaining blog written by a fellow Masshole turned Mainer* titled Cold House Journal. In fact, this was an experiment many had attempted previously! It was tempting to discover, is my cozy sleeping bag really rated to 30 degrees? If I was ever stranded in the cold, could I survive in a shelter without fire? Tune in later for the full report! ツ

*Yes, everyone in Maine does refer to those from Massachusetts as "Massholes" in fact it's so common it's  often not even considered offensive.

Visit to the MFA

The holidays are here and I opted to return to the Boston area a week early to finish up some lingering tasks, teach yoga to my summer students, and spend some extra time with family. Last Thursday I visited the Museum of Fine Arts with my parents and wandered into some great exhibits. Shinique Smith's mixed media "Bright Matter" is on display until March 1st and it was a fresh breath of bright colors and creativity.

Pictured (right) is the piece titled When Shadows Fall (Home) which included acrylic, ink, and layers of tulle and fabric on paper, stickers, and other mixed media. Another is Splendid, inspiried by a palette of popular product colors of the 1980's - Smith's teen years. The painting I enjoyed most was Majesty, which unlike many of Smith's other works was comprised solely of ink and acrylic. Inspired by the artist's memories of glacier walks in Iceland and views of the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis).

Splendid, 2014 

Majesty 2012

The second exhibit we viewed was National Pride (and Prejudice) a small collection of pieces by artists who tackle issues of national identity. 

"What instills pride in one citizen may be a call to protest for another, or may represent a complex combination of thoughts and feelings. The seven works in this installation take a critical look at such images to spark dialogue around provocative issues of national identity. They challenge long-held assumptions about these symbols with a combination of humor, beauty and biting commentary, highlighting the close link between politics and contemporary art."

Bullet Flag IV, 2009

My favorite of this group was Bullet Flag IV created in 2009 by American artist, David Cole. Cole states "The power in the piece for me is in the contradictions". The dark bullets in this piece were used in the United States and the bright copper ones in warfare fought abroad.

Another thought provoking pice was Guernica to Wounded Knee, a mixed media piece created in 2012 by Stan Natchez of the Shoshoni and Paiute. Natchez references the Massacre at Wounded Knee in 1890 when many Lakota fought against the U.S. army in the last battle between Native Americans and the United States.

"I paint to understand the world around me" Natchez comments.

I discovered these cuties while browsing in the gift shop...

Spring Arrives, New Beginnings ⚘

Another three months fly by... I often come across travel blogs that I read for a short while as a convenient distraction from work, and then bookmark them in hopes of returning later. I probably revisit less than 1% of sites I bookmark, but I digress... Today I came across another "Bucket List Travel Blog" full of inspiring quotes and realized that if there was one disappointment of the past few years it's that I have not blogged more often!! So, here goes another try at resolving to update more frequently. Dear Readers, please feel free to hold me responsible to this ;)

Now, to announce some very exciting news! I've been doing some consulting for the +Maine Primitive Skills School in Augusta and am thrilled to be moving to the Augusta area in May to be able to work part time at the school. I've also just recently decided to take MOFGA's Permaculture Design Course this summer as well! As some of my readers know, I've been interested permaculture for a few years and completed a large garden project at Navdanya in 2012. Last summer I attended the Common Ground Fair with my aunts which is put on by the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardener's Association (MOFGA) and it totally blew me away. So many workshops, demonstrations, vendors, and interesting people to talk to. I came home with just over 1000 seeds (they've been waiting patiently in the freezer) and now I'll be returning to Maine to plant them. ツ

Guest Post: Avoiding Unnecessary Weight Gain During the Holidays

Holiday parties, coworkers in a baking frenzy, family feasts, and fancy holiday cocktails. Sounds like a recipe for weight gain, fatigue, and hangovers.

The number one new year's resolution is weight related, and only 39% actually achieve this goal!

The holidays do not have to be a time to undo the hard work you’ve built up throughout year. Depending on your usual habits, here are some relatively simple ways to keep yourself in check without feeling deprived during the holiday season.

Throughout the Season

You know that you’re likely to have a few more treats than usual late in the year so planning is key. Be meticulous with your daily meal plans by shopping from a list to avoid impulse buys. Invest in portable containers and keep the day’s meals in them so you will always be prepared, which will reduce the temptation to eat out or grab just one more sugar cookie.

Avoid highly processed foods or anything with added sodium. This will help to reduce inflammation and bloating and therefore make you feel better. When you know you’ve been eating well, the temptations are easier to resist.

Exercise daily. Even if it’s a 30 minute walk, get out and move. Your body will feel healthier and any extra calories burned will make up for the occasional Christmas cocktail.

Drink a lot of water. Water flushes toxins from your body, helps with cell regrowth, and reduces inflammation. A basic rule of thumb is to divide your weight in half and drink at least that many ounces every day.

Holiday Parties

Company parties, your best friend’s annual shindig, whatever it is, holiday events come with the season and generally include lots of sugars, fats, and calories. You don’t necessarily have to deprive yourself. It’s a great idea to bring along some of your own homemade goodies to a party, either something healthy, like a veggie plate, or a reduced calorie version of one of your favorite treats. Then, if you find your self tempted to overeat, snack on those items during the party.

Another surefire way to avoid overindulging is to have a filling snack or small meal beforehand. My preference is a quick Shakeology smoothie because the protein fills me up and the ingredients help to reduce cravings. Other great options are a piece of fruit and a small handful of nuts or veggies and hummus.

Consuming Alcohol

It seems like we get extra creative with our holiday drinks which usually means consuming more calories. Think eggnog, heavy cream, and Baileys. When you imbibe, stick to clear alcohol and low-sugar mixers like tonic water.

We all know how easy it is to fall into the trap of overeating during the holidays. After all, the season of cutting back spending, eating, and drinking immediately follows when January 1st rolls around, promising a year of change. By following these basic steps, you’re more likely to maintain your weight and feel better throughout the holiday season and enter the new year feeling motivated and healthy!

Christa McMahon is a health & fitness coach working independently with people who want to live healthier lives, lose weight, and get ripped, through practical goal setting and accountability. She is a Colorado native married to her high school sweetheart, living in Durango, CO. They enjoy spending time with their families, and taking advantage of the outdoor adventures in such a beautiful state. You can follow her on Facebook.

It's so cool what you're doing, but I could never ...

A lot of people ask how I finance traveling, and are curious about teaching abroad in Asia. The most common response when I talk to people about my experiences traveling is wow that's so cool, I wish I could do it! Well, what's stopping you?

You're scared.

So is everyone else. The unknown makes everyone nervous, but that's what makes it exciting too! And if you want to travel you probably are looking forward to something different so get over it :D

You don't speak another language.

Luckily for us English speakers our language is spoken by people all over the world, which is kind of ironic because Americans do less international travel than all other developed countries. There is such a high demand for English teachers in Asia because everyone is learning it. Many people in cities speak some English and there is always someone around to help translate. It doesn't hurt to learn some of the local language as well.

You have no savings or are unemployed.

How are you living? Can you save $100-$200 a month? Cut back wherever you can, and book your flight on a credit card. If you work at least 25 hours a week you'll have your flight paid off in a month and can start saving. The cost of living (especially housing expenses and food) is extremely cheap here and you will be getting paid the equivalent of a US salary.

What will you do with your stuff?

Get rid of it! How much is it worth? What will it cost you to put everything in storage? You could probably buy new furniture for the cost of storing it. Sell everything you can bear to part with and ask a friend or relative to store a few boxes of your personal items or look for a super cheap and small storage unit.

How will you meet people?

You're not the only person going to Asia to teach English! Make friends with other teachers at your school, take a yoga class, join a gym, or do one of the many other activities available in your city and if you notice another foreigner on the street just say "Hello" you already have something in common with them :)

How will you find an apartment?

Most real estate agencies like foreigners because they know you're coming here to work and will probably pay your rent on time. Every country is different, but generally you can contact an agency before you arrive or right away when you get there and they will show you a variety of furnished apartments to choose from. You can easily find a place within one week. Then you just need a cell phone and a bike and you're ready to work! Check out cheap hostels online before you go - also a good way to meet people.

How will you find a job?

The easiest way is to pay an agency to find you one before you go. They will negotiate salary and hours for you ahead of time. You can also just go and visit schools when you arrive. Realistically, allow at least 2 weeks to find a school and start working. Often it is easy to find subbing hours immediately.  This will also allow you to get an idea of what it's like to work at different schools - there is a very wide range of expectations of foreign employees in Asia. Most schools will help you through the visa process. Many communities in Asia have message boards where you can look for jobs for free. The two I have used frequently in Taiwan are Kaohsiung Living and Forumosa.

Now, what are you waiting for? ;)

My afternoon class at Live ABC, L4-K

Home for the Holidays

I ♥ snow

It was a busy week in Boston.  I ended up getting seven days out of my vacation (instead of six) because my flight to JFK was cancelled at the last minute.  Simple version of the story, JetBlue has some serious organizational problems but at least I got to complain about them on the 10 o'clock news :)

I decided to take the Amtrak Acela train to NYC instead of trying to get on an overbooked flight at the airport so Im officially on my way back to Taiwan. It's pretty convenient if you can get on one of the cheaper trains and they have free internet for the whole ride.  I finished watching The Stoning of Soraya M. which was a great movie, but disturbing when you think about all the women for whom this is their reality.

The week was short but I got to see lots of friends and family. The blizzard didn't stop our holiday dinner at The Independent either!  We've kept up the tradition for over 10 years now.  It seems like it's gotten even warmer in Taiwan so Im looking forward to some nice weather when I return.  I'll probably be exhausted by the time I arrive on Friday but I'll have a few hours to recover before our new year's eve party :)

The Independent, Somerville

Italia Reunion

On my last day in Asia I flew from Kuala Lumpur to Taipei and then continued onto LA and then Denver for Christa and Sean’s wedding.  Total travel time:  24 hours. Four of us flew in to Denver and did a mini road trip down to Durango with Taylor on Friday.  We made a quick detour to the Great Sand Dunes National Park in Mosca, which was really fun.  We took a whole bunch of Abu Dhabi pictures!

Christa and Sean’s wedding was beautiful.  They had the ceremony and reception at an old Italian style villa on a farm in the countryside.  The food was fantastic (Italian of course) and they had perfect weather.  I am so grateful that I have stayed in touch with my roommates from Italy.  Sometimes I don't know what I would do without them!  We have all managed to stay very close even when we arent able to talk for long periods of time.  It has also been nice to be able to adjust to being back in the states without going straight home.  I have a few more days in Colorado where I’ll be staying with my friend Colleen that I met while volunteering in South America.  Im looking forward to being in Boston next weekend!

Check out more pictures of the wedding by clicking here.

Thoughts and Plans ....

I'm not very consistent at updating my blog when I'm in the states.  Im pretty sure this is directly related to how often my cell phone rings here.  Im trying to get into the habit of updating every so often even when I'm not traveling. Im beginning to get restless in the states anyways and visiting Dan and Anth in Taiwan is definately at the top of my traveling list! :)

Things have been pretty busy lately with the development of Be Beautiful's website.  I have been working on this a lot with Melanie and things are really coming along.  If you are looking for webhosting, check out ipage.  We have had a great experience with them so far. The site should be ready to launch in the next few weeks so I will post a link soon!

Looking back on 2009

As most of you know I ended up coming back from S. America a little earlier than planned and I never got the chance to write a conclusion to my blog.  Well, now I've been home for about 2 months and the year is coming to an end! About a month after I returned to the states I moved into an apartment in Medford.  I actually live right on the line of Somerville and it is a great location.  I can walk to Porter and Davis Sq. and surprisingly, I never get stuck in traffic here :)

I participated in the Emerson Winter Market as a visiting artist the first weekend in December.  This was the first year I was personally invited to the show - in the past I did it with John, my glassblowing instructor at Salem State.  Thanks to everyone who came and visited me there it, the weekend was definately a success!

I've also been participating in photo shoots as a model, makeup artist, and wardrobe designer with one of my friends who is a hair stylist.  We've been collaborating with local photographers and it has been lots of fun.  Hopefully it will lead to some paid work in the future so I can finance a new camera!

A little over a week left ...

I'll be leaving in just a little over a week for Brazil :) and Im really excited to visit my friends there! I feel like I still have a million things to do before I go so Im glad that I'm in Maine for a few days with my parents. It's nice to have some time to relax, especially after moving everyday for the past week. Plan ahead is the best advice I can give anyone planning international travel. In retrospect, although people thought I was a little crazy for packing my backpack 3 months in advance of my trip to SA last time; it was nice to know I had already taken care of all those last minute things. But, it always seems like summer is over too soon so I guess everyone else will be feeling this way in another month. (Plus, I can't really complain about the beaches in Brazil) ;D