M's Guide: Let's Go

I'm inspired by almost everything.  I'm one of those people who get caught on the subway for staring.  I think every moment has magic and every thing is worth seeing.  I know most of you are cosmopolitan and erudite so I'm not going to share a list of museums (except one)- instead, I'm keeping this to where I go daily (if I could) for what gives me the space to create.

Musee de la Chasse et de la Nature- Paris

This is one of those spots that you really don't want to share because you love it so much.  Honestly, this place is magic.  I'm not sure who came up with it, but they have a head I'd like to crawl into once in a while.  A museum of "hunting and nature", it's really a place that celebrates history, iconology, tradition and magic.  While embracing everything modern, forward thinking and visionary. I can't even really explain it except to say that there is a talking boar head in the gun room and an entire room dedicated to owls- wherein the ceiling is adorned with feathers and owls looking down at you.  I can't do this place justice.  Which is, honestly, fine with me- it is one of the best kept secrets in Paris.

 

The Brooklyn Botanical Garden- Brooklyn NY

I love this place.  Serene, peaceful (except during Cherry Blossom season- but still worth it), the garden is my oasis in BK.  I love it in all seasons.

Prospect Park- Brooklyn NY

Winter visits for bird watching, sledding and snow man building are some of my absolute favorite things to do.  Olmstead's masterpiece, this is his perfected version of Central Park.  Resplendent with multiple types of landscapes, from rolling meadows to twisted brambles, this park is magical.  I take my son to Forest School here every Fri morning, rain or shine.  It's a true favorite.  And Saturdays boast one of the largest green markets in Brooklyn.

 

The Tucson Gem, Mineral & Fossil Show- Tucson AZ

A lot of people don't know that come late Jan/early Feb, the entire town of Tucson is taken over by crystal freaks, diamond vendors, mineral and fossil hunters and anyone who even has the slightest desire to touch, hold or buy any of the above.  With over 30 curated and official trade shows (many open to the public), almost every open space is taken over by someone with a rock of some kind.  The resonance of this place, this time of year, is amazing.  Makes you almost forget they don't celebrate MLK day in the state.  But seriously, everyone should go at least once.  It's mind blowing.

 

Tomales Bay CA

Rent a kayak and explore.  Get stuck in the wind and float, admiring the wild while imagining it's primitive past.  Stop for oysters.  Dream in the sun.  Bundle up in the fog.  Experience the native beauty of California nature.  Watch out for sharks.

Iceland

ALL OF IT.  Do the ring road and stop wherever and whenever you can.  I'm not kidding.  Take off for at least 2 weeks and let the road guide you.  You won't be disappointed.