Current Mood

After what seemed to be an extended bout of summer temperatures, autumn weather has come on strong recently in NYC. So what's new with me? So I injured my ankle in August and when I was almost pretty much completely healed and done with physical therapy in September, I re-injured it trying to avoid colliding a with  tourist in Soho. The second time I went to see my acupuncture doctor which greatly helped with recovery and I'm at the point where I'm almost done with PT and can jump and run again. Wish me luck on completing it this time without incident. 

Reading...

The Nightblood Prince

YA fantasy isn't my usual genre but I saw an interview with author Molly X Chang where she described this book and I also really liked her response to a question about the actor she would cast to be the lead should this book ever made into a movie because she actually chose a Chinese actor.  Anyhow ]The Nightblood Prince which puts a unique, Chinese inspired spin on established vampire lore is actually a real page turner. I really like how it explores themes of gender roles, fate and political intrigue. I'm actually really enjoying this one.

Watching...

Genie, Make A Wish

I was interested in watching this fantasy rom com  series. because it comes form the same writing and directing team as The Glory which is one of my favorite dramas ever.  It tells the story of a genie who is released after a millennium by an emotionless woman. The genie wants to be free which he can only achieve after granting wishes but he will have to labor for his freedom as his new master doesn't seem interested in making wishes. This show is a little chaotic but an entertaining watch. Kim Woo Bin and Suzy have the best chemistry. And Song Hye Kyo has a cheeky cameo that is totally scene stealing.

Cancelling....

Baseball

My husband and I were avid longtime baseball fans specifically of the NY Yankees but when they decided to have a moment of silence for a fascist podcaster and host chief cheeto at a game, we were done with them. It's one thing to suspect that your favorite team has players who are maga but it's another thing to have that confirmed. I can't in good conscience support that. Don't try to tell me to root for another team or sport because it's going to be a lot of the same. I try to live in a way where where my actions align with my morals so this decision was an easy one that gives me peace. I firmly believe that a big reason for where we are in the US is because most people can't give up even the smallest things that are problematic.

Relearning... 

Spanish

I'm still working on my Mandarin Chinese fluency and literacy because we hope to move to Asia eventually. I've also picked up Spanish because speaking multiple languages is useful. I took Spanish in high school and still remember enough to be able to carry out a basic conversation. Anyway I'm having fun with it and look forward to putting my Spanish into practice more soon. I'm also doing this since learning a new language can significantly benefit our brains by sharpening thinking, boosting creativity, and enhancing overall brain health by reshaping neural pathways, similar to how physical exercise strengthens muscles. And it improves cognitive flexibility, memory, and executive function. Language learning is a powerful tool for cognitive enhancement and mental well-being. If I succeed at this then I will be quadrilingual which would be pretty cool.

Using...

The Naboso Original Neuro Ball

Been using this multi-use massage, mobility and recover massage ball daily to aid in my ankle rehabilitation. I really like how rolling it relieves muscle tension, increases mobility and aids in recovery through self myofascial release. I will definitely be using this on the regular even after my ankle gets back to 100% and my husband has found it useful as well.

Eating...

Pepper Steak

We eat Chinese food at home all the time but we seem gravitate even more towards it when the wetaher chills. Lately I've added pepper steak to the rotation because it's both tasty and healthy. We only eat meat once or twice a week so it has be something good. I always make it with grass fed steak and serve with with another dish of vegetables to make sure we're getting enough fiber. I'm very mindful of protein and fiber intake as I'm actively trying to gain more muscle.

Seeing..

Lots of Fantastic Exhibitions

We've continued taking advantage of all the great local museums and galleries in the city. Irving Penn at Philips Auction House was a highlight for me since he's always been one of my favorite photographers. I couldn't pass up an opportunity to pose for a photo in his famous portrait corner, Was wearing my favorite BA&SH dress and Loeffler Randall sneakers because the weather was still summer-like.The Met is always good. Loved Superfine: Tailoring Black Style and Man Ray when Objects Dream was also fantastic.

Visting..

Beacon, NY

We've been into taking day trips and we took one to upstate to Beacon earlier in the month when it still felt like summer. Finally got to visit Dia Beacon which is housed inside a former Nabisco box printing factory. Renée Green: The Equator Has Moved was the featured exhibit and it was quite compelling. The Serra sculptures were a highlight as well. The Beacon food scene is actually quite lively. We had an excellent lunch at Ziatun, an authentic Palestinian restaurant on Main Street that is very popular. We also had an early dinner at The Roundhouse with a view of the creek before heading home on the Metro North. Both establishments offer outdoor dining.Wee had originally wanted to hike Mount Beacon but that will have to wait until next time when my ankle is back to 100% Would definitely go back as we felt safe there. My husband and I have always been quite wary about where we travel to in the US which is a real valid concern for POC especially during these turbulent times. 

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