Monday, February 13, 2012

Monday find








































































































Love this new, David Lynch-inspired boutique with a focus on hip, Argentinian designers: UNMO, Passion Fruit, Carolina Aubele, Sibilia, Think Pink, Neon, Costansoup, Papas y Ruido, Lovely Louisa, Sr. Icecram, Juli Santini, Guadalupe Martirena, EUPHORIA, among others.

The small boutique has high energy. The mix of cool materials such as metal (used in the rocket-like dressing rooms) and wood, make it's interior design as interesting and fun as the objects and clothes found inside.

I loved these lamps (first photograph) made to honor Minoru Yamasaki, an architect best known for his design of the twin towers of the World Trade Center. There's only 100 of these lamps.


Check it out! you'll like it.

Where? Arce 941, Las Cañitas

Thanks to Bruno the person in charge of the boutique for his kindness!

Sunday, February 12, 2012

Friends























She's told me that I'm "the sister she never had" imagine what a thrill that is.

She makes me laugh until tears fall out and my stomach hurts. She makes fun of me when I'm too serious. She questions me. Sometimes, she makes me think that I'm brilliant and sometimes that my ideas are too naïf.

She trusts me and tells me everything openly and honestly.

She believes in me.

Her heart is infinite. If I say that I like her shoes she'll ask if I'd like to change them for mine. If you like a lamp or even a piece of furniture in her house, she will say "take it".
She gives for the pleasure of giving.

We've studied and worked together and she has always challenged me when I have not met her expectations (or my own) because she expects more, because she knows I am capable of more and does not want me to settle for less. She is passionate about the things she does and does not like mediocrity.

When I have a negative view of myself, she gives me thoughtful words, she cheers me up, or she's simply there.

I met her in class at the university. I was lucky.

Every year we travel to "some" place. We meet, we choose the place and after a short time, we're gone!

Last year I had surgery. When I was about to receive anesthesia, the doctor told me: "Now think of something nice" and I saw my friend! Yes, I saw both of us in a convertible car going from Carmel to San Francisco. We were singing and laughing. I imagined I had a handkerchief in my head, and that it flew. Eventually, we took this trip and it was better than I had imagined.

If I had to "think of something nice" again, I would imagine us dancing. She dances with this same step since we were 20; one hand up in the air, perhaps a drink in her other hand and always a smile in her face as she moves to the rhythm of the music.

Last November we went to Barcelona. She posted a few photos of our trip but I wanted to add more words to those photos. On that trip, we were lucky to meet other friends. Good friends, like us. We all met on a train, on our way to a bike tour of the vineyards in Spain. The four of us became close friends (you know, depth of friendship does not entirely depend on how long you know someone) and spent almost every day together til our journey ended. One of them lived in Washington D.C. and was visiting the other who was living in Barcelona. On a cold Saturday afternoon we separated from our new friends. It was time for everyone to part. It was weird to say bye.

On our way to the airport my friend was quiet. I thought she was sleepy but later on she said that she was feeling a bit emotional; that as we drove away from the city in the taxi, she re-lived every moment of our trip.

I think friends are a gift and I am thankful for the few, good ones that I have and for the memories that we create together.

Hugs!

Post by: Valeria Mendez Cañas

Tuesday, February 7, 2012

why read?



















A few days ago, I told my husband that sometimes, when I am in social situations I expect to engage in deep conversation but what I often get is superficial.

Topics of conversation are, generally, variations of the same subjects: type of cell phone, latest vacation and future vacation plans, hair and nail color trends, the newest collections, hotel recommendations, a comment about the latest criminal case, one or two anecdotes (if lucky), questions about how we raise or how we should educate our children, what works and what doesn't (really boring, cause you know, aside from giving them love and attention, each couple has it´s own ways that are determined by their own singularity, so "winner" formulas don´t really apply here), and a forecast of the way inflation is going to affect our economies in the upcoming future.

No matter what situation I find myself in, whether it's a meeting with friends or on my own, I´m always hoping to produce or encounter some form of knowledge, but, when I relate to some people I am left with the feeling that it simply will not happen. So, I asked my husband if maybe I should settle for superficial conversations.
The truth be said, I find that hard to achieve.

Even though I understand that these are times where focus is divided between the profound and superfluous (which I think works great towards a form of balance) I do wonder: when something calls our attention, I mean really calls our attention, isn't this a good reason to stop and focus for a moment on what interests us? Isn't that worth it? Isn't learning worth it? I am left with the feeling that this lack of interest (which applies to a lack of interest in books also) can lead people to loose their capacity to ask questions, be surprised and to engage at a deeper level with others.

I like to read. I think there are so many good reasons to read. This is what I wanted to share with you today. I like to read books, magazines, I read anything that calls my attention and which I feel I can learn from.

Reading, I educate myself. I discover subjects that interest me and I set myself to get a more profound understanding of them. I find which are the characters´ adventures and conflicts an author so kindly shares with me and the way they learn from each experience. I sometimes apply the characters´ findings to my own life or, at least, I test them.

Sometimes, reading helps me discover who I am, it also helps me to find meaning in what seems not to have it or not to feel alone when dealing with certain feelings or topics.

I may be slow in understanding it is best to switch from the Google search engine to Google Chrome (or so my 10 yr. old daughter says). That is my pace.

Reading reminds me that one´s personal growth takes time because true knowledge isn't superficial, it is the result of a deep learning process that takes place at one´s own pace.

People that don´t read miss the chance of finding out what is particular about themselves and others and are at risk of becoming dull talking about their latest cell phone. Or talking about other people.

Reading is worth it, don't you think?

"Don't sleep with people who don´t read!" - John Waters



Post by Valeria Mendez Cañás

she, he























via whiskey straight

Saturday, February 4, 2012

"dusa"

















It's always good to ask ourselves questions, no? here are some good ones.


Do you live well?
Do you love deeply?
Are you helpful?

and Three more:

Who are you?
What would you like to do with the rest of your life?
How will you do it?

Knowing ourselves is key in order to define what we want and how to accomplish it.

Thursday, January 26, 2012

Punta del Este



































Some people ask why Punta del Este vacation rentals cost so much, so I thought I'd write a little about prices, why I think some things cost what they cost and why renting a property in Punta del Este is not so easy on the pocket.

When you pay (what you consider) a high price for something it's usually because it has been recommended, you're familiar with the brand, like it and trust it or because your perception is that it's a good product or service and that it's worth it. For every authentic, luxurious product or service out there, there is a (not authentic) version of it at a cheap price. This, we know and this applies to almost anything you can think of: clothes, watches, wine, travel, handbags, coaches, brokers, etc.

So why not get the cheaper version? is a question that may rise. Cause deep inside we know that the cheaper version of our object of desire is not (really) our object of desire - even if at times we do end up getting the "other" version. However, if we are lucky enough to have the possibility to choose, in the end, we are most likely to choose (and support) upscale products/services. 

I would, therefore, like to extend the above concept to the cost of vacation rentals in Punta del Este without even going into details about perhaps more technical relevant variables such as land and construction prices, demand, etc.

So what are the other aspects that make exclusive properties expensive? Aside from the fact that Punta del Este is one of the most beautiful and desirable places on earth (and, I've done a great deal of traveling, since I was ... hmmm... born?) And it's not just me. Please ask anyone. It is a magical place. And so are these beautiful houses.

Each one of these villas has been hand picked by an experienced group of people who not have not only taken the TIME to personally inspect and photograph each villa in their portfolio, but also spend a lot of time with each one of the owners of these summer homes. Some (if not most) homes belong to Curiocity's owners, friends and family so the houses are known by heart; others are strangers who kindly open their doors to Curiocity (yes, just to them).

Clients of Curiocity are not just going anywhere. We are going to a magical place. In the experience of staying in one of these homes, we discover the love and effort that each one of the owners has put into their summer home. Each corner has a story, there are furnishings and objects from all over the world, books and music for lazy afternoons, flowers and candles, objects that have been passed from generation to generation, stunning art pieces, meticulously manicured gardens; ocean views, surrounding forests and lakes, helicopter pads. Semi-private beaches. Perfect lighting. Technology. Al- fresco dining; generous decks and swimming pools. There is soul and personality in each house. More importantly, behind each villa rental experience, there is a welcoming team of people (house staff, assistants, drivers, chefs, concierge, etc.) that wants us to feel at home and rest!

Just like other luxury products, Curiocity Villas' properties are ideal for people like us. People who love their work and work hard, people who get high on life and appreciate the good things: a nice dinner with friends, a sunset, or simply relaxing in a quiet, inspiring and private location with family, friends or your soul mate in one of the world's most beautiful places. Curiocity are always seeking unique villas that have something that makes them special. It's about memories that last. It's about emotion. And yes, the cost is on the high(er) side, but so is the experience. 




Saturday, January 14, 2012

space and closeness



































"...most humans have two contradictory impulses: we love and need one another, yet we crave privacy and autonomy." - Susan Cain


Photos: Punta del Este, Uruguay. The beautiful countryside, just minutes away from the beach. And the crowds.



Tuesday, January 3, 2012

Party



















So I was one of those early birds at the beach the other day (I've noticed there are more of us now) you know... with some friends talking about "last night's party" and one of them who was reading a book said: "let me read you something" and continued: "it's funny..." I said: "ok" and I thought it was funny, so I thought I'd share it with you:

CELEBRATE WITHOUT TEARS.

...In fact, just planning to have fun is enough to ensure getting bored. The ideal would therefore be to renounce all celebrations. Unfortunately, the party animal is a figure so well respected that this renunciation could result in a weakening of the social image. The following tips should help to avoid the worst (staying alone until the end, in a state of boredom evolving into despair, with the mistaken impression that the others are having fun).

Be well aware beforehand that the party will necessarily fail. Visualize the examples of past failures. (LOL!!*) This does not mean to adopt a cynical and jaded attitude. On the contrary, humble and cheerful acceptance of the common disaster can lead to success: transforming a failed party into a pleasant occasion of banality.

Always anticipate coming home alone, in a taxi.

Before the party: drink. Alcohol in moderate doses produces a socializing and euphoric effect which has no real competition.

During the party: drink, but lower the doses... It is more thoughtful to take ½ of a Valium at the right time. Alcohol compounding the effect of tranquilizers will make you sleepy; that’s the time to call a taxi. A good party is a short party.

After the party: call to offer your thanks. Wait quietly for the next occasion (an interval of one month, which can shorten to a week during vacations).

Finally, a consoling perspective: with the help of aging, the obligation to party diminishes; the penchant for solitude increases; real life takes over.


Extract from Michel Houellebecq's book, Interventions.
Photo: Chivas party in Punta del Este, Uruguay, the other night, taken with my mobile phone.
* that's a personal comment

Thursday, December 29, 2011

Happy New Year!!




























I'm sorry that I haven't been posting so often, but I'm taking a little (much needed) break in Uruguay.

Although I usually stay in José Ignacio, this time I'm staying at "la brava" which is super beautiful also and I'm loving every second. The weather has been glorious!! luckily.

I'll be posting more often soon, but I wanted to wish you a happy New Year!! hope 2011 was amazing and that 2012 brings lots of love, joy, magic and success into your lives!

xo

Photo: Isabel Marant, Spring 2011. Love the setting and this perfect little dress for New Year's Eve in the South American summer!

Monday, December 19, 2011

Containers, Jose Ignacio, Uruguay




















Container Design Loft created by chef/entrepreneur Alejandra Dellepiane, is a new hotel I discovered in José Ignacio. It is entirely made of shipping containers.



















The containers are exactly that, containers! not much has been done with that... (as you can see) but the idea is original and it is the first hotel of its type in Uruguay. The interiors are retro and comfortable and I liked the exterior areas most of all... wooden decks and terraces as well as beautiful, flowered gardens seduced my eyes. Among other things, a grill and jacuzzi provide the perfect excuse to hang out there, before or after heading to the beach. All of this surrounded by a pine tree forest.

Solar panels provide hot water and all areas are lit with LED technology.


































Last photo: the concierge!

the sky is pink

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Ernesto Neto

















































Just before leaving Buenos Aires I went to Faena Arts Center to see an exhibition by Brazilian artist, Ernesto Neto. The installation invites us to interact with it in a playful way. First step is taking your shoes off and going into the heart of this work: a labyrinth of colorful ropes, soft balls underneath your feet and a beautiful combination of colors that intensify the experience.

The spiderweb- like installation called "a bug suspended in the scene" takes up the entire exhibition space creating a special, intimate and soothing atmosphere.

It's a great feeling to walk suspended on air! Hope you like it.
x


Where?
Aime Paine 1169, C1107 Buenos Aires, Argentina.


Kisses from Punta!

Thursday, December 8, 2011

2011



















“A cloud does not know why it moves in just such a direction and at such a speed...

It feels an impulse...this is the place to go now.

But the sky knows the reasons and the patterns behind all clouds, and you will know, too, when you lift yourself high enough to see beyond horizons.”

- Richard Bach

Thursday, December 1, 2011

Barcelona!

I heart El Xampanyet












































































































































































































































The best part of a journey is the people you meet along the way. And the food.

Photo above is brunch at PICNIC

Tuesday, November 8, 2011

And you are..?

















In this photo: Charly García


The other day I found myself buying the biography of Miley Cyrus for my 9 year old daughter. When reading through it, I found this part interesting: "I'm left handed by birth, and although so is my father, he is absolutely convinced that I am right-handed. I think it's because he’s always said that lefties have to 'learn the world upside down' and more than once he has had a hard time finding a left-handed guitar. Anyway, Dad made me use my right hand and it worked. For the rest of the things in life, I'm left handed, but I write with the right."

This got me thinking cause I am also left handed and I often encounter obstacles that remind me of that. I write with my left hand, use my right hand to play golf, right foot to kick a ball and I’m not too sure what I use to play the piano but the fact is that I have too much strength in my left hand which requires special attention when it comes to playing the piano. In dance class, the teacher always says I have to first stretch the right leg or right arm. When I there’s a queue I stand on the left and always end up watching everyone pass before me... same thing in the underground.

If you're right handed, you use the left hemisphere in the process of action. If you're a lefty you use the right hemisphere. The left hemisphere is the center of operations relating to language, writing, logic and mathematics. The right hemisphere is associated with music, art, creativity, spatial perception, genius, imagination and emotional experiences.

Leonardo Da Vinci, Napoleon Bonaparte, Marilyn Monroe, Pablo Picasso, Woody Allen, Bill Clinton, Barack Obama and Nicole Kidman, to name a few, are all lefties.

Argentinian rock star, Charly Garcia once said, "Had I been born thousands of years ago, they would have thrown rocks at me cause I'm a lefty and I have a half-white mustache ...I just learned to use the flaws as virtues;” Seriously, there is nothing wrong with being left-handed.

David Bowie commented, "There was a time when left-handedness was frowned upon in Great Britain. And that made me isolate from the others. So I think that has been one of the signs with which I will evaluate my journey through life. 'Okay, mother fu… errs I'm not like you, so I will try to be better than you "

Having the right hemisphere more developed does make us different… That’s a good thing. To be different, I mean.


Post by: Valeria Mendez Cañás

Friday, November 4, 2011

Malnatti




















This is an interview to Daniel Malnatti, an Argentinian journalist I read in La Nacion, which made me laugh so I thought I’d share it with you:


I read on the internet that as a child you wanted to be a priest, is that right?

-Yes, I am a believer. I have a natural tendency to believe. I need to believe. As a teenager I wanted to be a priest. Then I believed in justice and became a lawyer. Now I’m in a world of beliefs which is a bit more complex, a private religion called neurosis.

Private-Why?

-Because everyone adapts it to his or her own life. You have the person who walks without stepping on the lines of the sidewalk tiles to the perfectionist who stays up working all night.

And you are…?

-I prefer not to answer.

Well ... we're all a little neurotic.

-Yes, 94.9% of Argentina's population is structured with a neurotic personality


Aha. This data is very accurate...?

-It is. This is official data of the Psychoanalytic Association of Argentina and the Artemio Lopez consultants, who are the only ones authorized to speak.

How is this picture completed?

The other 5% of the population shows decidedly psychotic features. And it is precisely this equation that makes the production and GDP remain high.


Reviewing: the neurotic 94.9%, 5% psychotic, and the remaining 0.1%?

-Schizophrenic. People who question and answer themselves.

Revealing