"To a Mountain in Tibet" Part One

If a book could be accompanied by an audio soundtrack or "theme song," I think the song that would best fit Colin Thubron's newest book, "To a Mountain in Tibet," would be U2's "I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For." I've only just begun reading it, but this is a powerful book with an important underlying theme that really resonates with me.

Colin Thubron is a British travel writer (I like to think of him as the British Paul Theroux, or Paul Theroux as the American Colin Thubron) who has produced such literary hallmarks as "Shadow of the Silk Road" and "The Lost Heart of Asia." What I love about his writing is that he is honest and straightforward, if even a bit of a curmudgeon at times, while fully immersing himself in and exploring the local culture. The reader knows that he is not taking this journey merely for the sake of selling a book; there is something deep and intrinsic that imbues his curiosity about the world, and it shines through in his books.

"To a Mountain in Tibet" is more than a travel narrative. While coping with his own familial loss, Thubron decides to undertake a pilgrimage to Mount Kailas in Tibet, a place that is sacred to one-fifth of humanity, according to the book-jacket (I'm sure this figure is true, but I'll have to verify it). An abbot Thubron encounters along the journey tells him about the mountain, "You know this is a mountain of great power. To travel there multiplies merit. The Buddha often flew there with his followers. And spiritual treasure-seekers meditated there - thousands of them- so its caves are full of blessing." The reader knows right from the beginning of the book that this is a special journey with a unique purpose. What is it that Thubron is searching for? What has compelled him to make this journey, to climb a mountain that no one ever has before? What is he hoping to find and will he, in fact, find it?

I haven't finished the book yet, so I don't know how the journey will end, but I understand and appreciate Thubron's quest already. Unlike many of the reviewers on GoodReads, I haven't found his writing to be depressing. Instead, I have found it to be introspective and highly personal. Aren't we all searching for something? That perfect job or experience that will make our life complete? Thubron is approaching this search inwardly, for he writes about the tenants of Buddhism in "To a Mountain in Tibet."

I've been very interested in Buddhism lately (that is another reason why I was drawn to this book), reading such works as "Zen Flesh, Zen Bones," "Living Buddha, Living Christ," and "Awakening the Buddha Within," which I highly, highly recommend. Buddhism really speaks to me even though I wasn't raised in a religious family. We didn't read the Bible or talk about God. (To this day, I don't think my sister has ever even opened a Bible.) Religion was just a non-factor. I remember when a friend from high school said to me, "I've known you all these years, but I don't know what you believe." I recall being absolutely dumbfounded by this question. Believe? What do I believe about what? I didn't have an answer for her, and I probably still do not. Yet, I've been drawn to Buddhism, mostly because the teachings of Buddhism are principles that I believe can fit in with anyone's life, whether s/he is spiritual or not. It's about being a better person, living a full life, being happy with you are, and exploring from within. "Help yourself," as the Buddha said.

So, is this why I believe Colin Thubron made that epic trek to Mount Kailas? Is he a "spiritual treasure-seeker?" And, did he find what he was looking for? I'll find out tomorrow...and I'll let you know!

Happy Birthday, Grace!

One of the most influential figures in modern fashion celebrates her 70th birthday this April. Who is that, you might be wondering? Here are a few clues: 1) she's a redhead; 2) she's Welsh, and 3) she's arguably the world's greatest living stylist (at least she is according to Anna Wintour). I could only be referring to one person: the incomparable Grace Coddington.

In the April letter from the editor, Anna Wintour writes that Grace is "the fashion insider's heroine." This is most certainly true. Before R. J. Cutler's documentary, "The September Issue," put her on the map, so to speak, only people who were truly fanatical about fashion (folks like, um, me) knew about the work and genius of Grace Coddington. She is the Creative Director of Vogue (so second-in-command), but her work takes place behind the scenes. She doesn't write flashy articles about Gwyneth Paltrow or Amar'e Stoudemire like Plum Sykes or Hamish Bowles. She doesn't review the collections like Sarah Mower or contributors like Lynn Yaeger. Yet, her vision permeates every page of the magazine. It's her work that we really remember after sifting through each issue of Vogue. She is the magic-maker or dream-weaver, if you will. She creates the fantasy and she makes the enchanting world of fashion come to life. I don't know where the industry would be without her.

So, here's to you, Grace Coddington. Thank you for your work, your dedication, and your contribution to fashion. May you have another beautiful 70 years!

6

Today is Brian's and my six-year anniversary. (Hurray!) It's hard to believe that we met and started dating six years ago today. We've been through a lot together, like most couples who have been together for five years or longer. There have been some terrible haircuts, horrible outfits, loud shoes, but a lot of happiness, too. I think that is because we really balance each other out. That cliché about opposites attracting might actually be true.

I think this was taken in 2007 at my friend Sarah's annual Christmas Party. This is one of those rare photos in which both people are looking at the camera, there is no glare from my glasses, and everyone is smiling.

Here we are having dinner with my dad. I think this was taken in 2005. The quality isn't as good because it was taken with a disposable camera and scanned. I didn't join the digital age until late in 2007, so most early photos of me and Brian are actually in photo albums and not on a desktop.

We're out celebrating one of my best friend's birthdays (Leah!) here. I'm drawing a complete blank on where this was taken, too. Maybe I do need Facebook, after all. I love the red lights in the background, though!

This was taken at Brian's younger sister's wedding in October 2009.

...and maybe the seventh year will finally be the charm for us!

Sarah Burton's Ice Queen and Court for McQueen

The question over at Alexander McQueen, since the loss of the maestro himself, has been how much should Sarah Burton mesh her individual creativity with the vision that McQueen had himself for his label. After viewing her first complete solo collection for the house of Alexander McQueen, I think she did both perfectly. She married her talents and unique point of view with the raw genius of that of Alexander McQueen in the brilliantly-themed "The Ice Queen and Her Court" collection.

It was a collection of both light and airy and tough and edgy clothing, with little color. Nearly every shoe was a platform laced boot of white or black. Models also wore caps of feathers, fur hoods, and little visible makeup. The collection wasn't entirely wearable, but I don't think it needs to be. There is always a client for those who produce fanciful clothing. In fact, there is one dress in particular that I would be lining up to purchase...

I loved the opening look modeled by Freja as the Ice Queen herself.

I could see Daphne Guinness wearing this.

I hope that isn't real fur since I find this entire look highly wearable.

This looks like an ideal suit for the office to me.

Another gorgeous Ice Queen look. I wonder if Tilda Swinton's role in "The Chronicles of Narnia" was partial inspiration for this collection...

Just the slightest touch of color in this delicate lavender ensemble.

And the most beautiful, breath-taking dress of all. Sarah Burton must have a window into my dreams because this is exactly what I have envisioned wearing for a wedding. Time to start saving! I.want.this.dress.

(** all images from style.com**)

Vintage Linda Evangelista

This photo of Linda Evangelista by Mario Testino is one of my absolute favorite fashion photos. It was taken for V Magazine in 2001 and also appeared in Testino's "Portraits" exhibit at London's National Portrait Gallery, where I snatched up this postcard in the museum gift shop. I love the neon green backdrop, the black lace headpiece, and, most of all, the expression on Linda's face. There aren't too many models like her around these days.

(** image: Linda Evangelista, V Magazine, 2001, Paris, Mario Testino; National Portrait Gallery, London**)

Jesus Statue Puts Swiebodzin on the Map

What does the Polish city of Swiebodzin have in common with Rio de Janeiro? Both cities are home to the world's tallest statues of Jesus Christ. While Rio's world-famous "Christ the Redeemer" formerly held the title of World's Tallest Jesus Statue, Poland's "Christ the King" has now claimed this honor. The new statue in Poland stands at 33 meters tall, which represents one meter for each year of Christ's life. This statue of Christ also includes a giant crown, which puts the statue at 51 meters tall. Rio's Christ statue towers in at 38 meters tall and overlooks the whole of the city atop a mountain.

I would love to know what my Christian friends think of this trend in building large statues of Jesus Christ. Is it in poor taste? Is it a proud symbol of everlasting faith? According to The Christian Science Monitor, feelings are mixed in Poland with some Polish Catholics feeling that the statue represents "megalomania" and "grandiosity." Others, like Bishop Stefan Regmunt, believe that the statue is an affirming sign of faith. And, of course, local businesspeople (and likely tourism agents) hope that the iconography of the statue will attract more visitors to Poland.

I've dreamed of visiting Christ the Redeemer ever since I saw "The Chipmunk Adventure" as a young child. (I still tear up when I hear "Off to See the World.") And I'd love to see Christ the King, too, especially since it's in my motherland.

(** image from The Christian Science Monitor**)

Mum's the Word at Vogue

Is anyone else surprised that no one from Vogue has released a statement about John Galliano? The incident has practically monopolized Cathy Horyn's writings for the Times this week. Editors from Italian Vogue and the International Herald Tribune have offered their insight and opinions on the matter. Natalie Portman was quick to condemn what Galliano said and to distance herself from Dior. Why hasn't anyone over at Vogue said anything? They haven't even acknowledged that the incident happened. I've checked their website (www.vogue.com) all week for headlines and...nothing. I know they're in the midst of Paris Fashion Week, but this will likely be the biggest issue confronting the fashion community all year. So, why are we hearing crickets on this matter from Vogue?

Anna, are you out there?