Field Notes

Lavender Soiree- Governors Island NYC

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Only a five minute ferry ride from Wall Street, Governor’s Island is a quick summertime escape away from crowds, chaos and most significantly… traffic! A car free island, I absolutely love coming here for a lazy weekend day.

So much to see and do here, but I’m focusing this post with a shout out to Earth Matter, an amazing organization dedicated to composting. You are always welcome to drop in and see the garden and chickens. (And don’t miss the little the Farm Stand.) They even have a lavender field where I harvested some lavender (with permission) at their annual Lavender Soiree.

This organization brings me so much joy!

Field Notes: NYBG

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Long time on my bucket list! I finally made the trek to the Bronx for the New York Botanical Garden.

Happy Spring to all

Field Notes: Hollyhock House

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What a gem- this beautiful home in Los Angeles was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1921. Named after the hollyhock flower (which appears in motifs around the home- can you spot them?) it was a favorite flower of Aline Barnsdall, whom this home was built for.

Imagining daily life here, connected to the natural surroundings with a view of the Hollywood Hills is inspiring. It’s no surprise UNESCO recognized this as a World Heritage site in 2019. Considering my obsession with the Francis W. Little House at the Met, I realize I’m long overdue to visit more of Frank Lloyd Wright’s work. Wisconsin here I come? 😜

Visit the Hollyhock House

Field Notes/Travel Log: Maui

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I had the chance to visit Maui for a friend’s wedding. It was a truly special time and was held at the Four Seasons, a stunning setting (where White Lotus was filmed!!) The wedding was beautiful, and I feel so grateful to have been part of such a special celebration.

Maui Jinsha Shinto Shrine

We also stopped by this Shinto shrine in Wailuku, Maui. The shrine was originally established by Japanese immigrants and has stood as a pillar of the local Japanese community for over a century.

I’ve learned that the shrine is at risk due to the aging caretakers and the structural damage to the building. I really hope that we can save it for future generations to come.

Like so many others, I have a deep love for Hawai‘i—its beauty, its culture, and the warmth of its people.

While Maui’s beauty remains undeniable, many Native Hawaiians and local families are still rebuilding post fire and fighting to protect their land and culture. (This John Oliver segment on Hawaii from August 2024 is a worthwhile watch.)

I looked around for ways to help and support. I’d love to know about any other organizations or businesses to support if you, dear reader, have suggestions.

Hawaiian organizations:

Local Hawaiian Businesses:

All in all, I love Hawaii. It’s truly the most special place, and I’m hopeful we can all work together to ensure this sacred land is protected for Hawaiians and future generations

This poster below was at the OGG airport and I thought it was worth saving :)

Field Notes: Hakone, Kanagawa, Japan

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Greetings from Asia!

Escaping the bustle of Tokyo is a must after a few days in the city and one must experience the healing waters of the Onsen (which I learned there are so many types!)

Our first stop was Hakone Yuryo-a day use onsen within walking distance from the train station. A private onsen is quite reasonable. I believe the total came to $72.16 USD, which can be split for up to four people. The water I learned is Alkaline type (Tanjun-sen) so great for skin.

I learned about the Japanese Hot Springs Act (温泉法, Onsen Hō), which regulates safety, quality and environmental protection. In short, Japan does not mess around with their Onsens and I think you pretty much cannot go wrong wherever you go. There are different types of water and benefits depending on where you go:

  1. Sulfur Springs (Iou-sen): Milky white, promotes circulation, eases joint pain, and has antibacterial properties.

  2. Sodium Chloride Springs (Shokabutsu-sen): Retains body heat, soothes fatigue, and heals skin conditions.

  3. Carbonate Springs (Tansan-sen): Bubbly, improves circulation, lowers blood pressure, and softens skin.

  4. Iron Springs (Tetsu-sen): Reddish-brown, warms deeply, and helps with anemia.

  5. Alkaline Simple Springs (Tanjun-sen): Clear, gentle, smooths and moisturizes skin; great for sensitive skin.

  6. Sulfuric Acid Springs (Ryūsan-en): Clear or yellowish, promotes skin regeneration and reduces high blood pressure.

I was obsessed with trying a black egg from the Owakudani Valley, which is said to add seven years to your life. The eggs are boiled in the hot springs so they are rich in sulfur and iron and they turn black due to the minerals in the water.

Tasty treat for the train ride back to Tokyo!

Field Notes: Storm King

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Took a field trip to Storm King, a 500 acre sculpture park in Orange County, NY. I was surprised to learn that this space was originally to be a museum for Hudson River School paintings!

Now dedicated to large scale sculpture, we enjoyed exploring the grounds, soaking in the November sunshine. Knowing winter is around the corner made it all the more worthwhile.

Side note: that is Noguchi’s- Momo Taro that I am sitting in. (Visitors are welcome to touch and sit in it.)

I only connected with sculpture more recently, after i moved to NYC. Makes me wonder if my relationship between the form and the space it occupies has become all the more meaningful…now that I inhabit a dense city!

Happy Friday and thanks for reading, whoever and wherever you are!