Architecture Top 10

Marvelous. Breathtaking. Mind-blowing.

I cannot contain my enthusiasm for this Netflix series! Each episode showcases spectacular architectural marvels throughout the world from buildings and bridges to other manmade constructions! One does not have to be an engineering-enthusiast or architecture student to appreciate this show. Each manmade wonder presented highlights the history of its design and construction, along with impressive facts and figures pertaining to the structure’s design. Ancient and modern-era designs are discussed.

For me, this show is a reminder of the astonishing feats humans can accomplish once everyone works together for a common goal. These impressive architectural feats correspond to incredible human connection and genuine interests in making the world a better place.

Why you should watch this show:

  • You will learn a great deal of history and insight into the world’s most famous and iconic structures
  • You will feel encouraged to learn more (awakens the inner-nerd!)
  • You may feel a new found sense of optimism for humanity
  • It’s an entertaining and insightful experience which can reach a broad audience of all ages

Have you seen Netflix’s Architecture Top 10 yet? Are there any similar shows that you can’t stop thinking/raving about?

Feeling “at home”

I live in North Cork.

For anyone familiar with Cork City, saying that you reside in the “north side” comes with an air of privilege and prestige. Not because it’s a posh area, rather, the working-class neighborhoods on the north side are known to be gritty and rough. 1960’s era row homes dot the hilly landscape. Tough guys in matching tracksuits march by with leashed Jack Russells in one hand and intimidating hurling sticks in the other. The association with the north side is that you are tenacious and resilient. My neighbors walk along the gritty sidewalks with pride and confidence. Despite economic hardships and lack of infrastructural development, I never shy away from telling others about my residence when I get the FAQ, “whereabouts do ya live?”

The house in which my boyfriend and I currently reside is a palace by Irish living standards. Our two bedroom home, complete with a charming gas fireplace and spacious back garden, sits atop a steep hill. Though scaling this hill can be a bit physically challenging, the views into the city center are unparalleled. Sometimes, I admire the view from our bedroom window and imagine myself to be the “Princess of the North Side.” All I need is a bedazzled tiara to accompany a matching Adidas tracksuit.

I have officially lived in Ireland for one year now. I have just recently begun to reflect on all that has transpired over the course of this year. I completed a 20,000 word Masters thesis, joined a volleyball team, developed a loving relationship with a German man (whom I met my second week in the country), and moved into a beautiful home.

Home. This concept has jumped around in my mind every since I moved away from Texas. I had lived in the Houston-area for the majority of my life. Although I had been fortunate enough to travel to many places in the world, I had never allowed myself to commit to moving abroad. When I arrived in Ireland on September 1, 2016, I was determined to make this new country my home. Discovering the lovely rental house on the north side hilltop, was an opportunity my boyfriend and I could not pass up, especially considering the housing shortage impacting most Irish cities.

My boyfriend and I are not native to Ireland. He is from Bavaria, and I’m from the States. Understandably, sometimes we both experience sadness and homesickness. With our house, however, we are determined to create and sustain a sense of belonging and contentment. Home is not about perfection. Placing unfair expectations into what makes you feel “at home” will only perpetuate feelings of unease and discomfort.

We spend a lot of time in our home. We cook dinners together every night. We hang our laundry out to dry on the line in the back garden. We planted flowers in decorative flower pots. We enjoy cool evenings on our patio, listening to the birds around us, watching the sky’s hues shift, blend, and transition as the sun sets. When it’s raining (which happens quite often), we snuggle up in our cozy den. A home is about the moments you enjoy.

How do you feel about your home? What do you do to make the most out of your living situation?

August Q & A

The Q & A episodes are always my favorites! Deb and Samantha respond to questions sent in by their listeners (which can be submitted via email at psychicteachers@gmail.com or through their Facebook page). The topics are varied and expansive, covering everything from astrology to haunted homes to everything in between. It’s so thrilling to hear the ladies’ wisdom and insight into everything metaphysical and spiritual. Their knowledge is unmatched!

As with every episode, the ladies begin with a quick overview of a “crystal of the week” (COTW) and an “animal of the week” (AOTW).

COTW*: Hematite

*While not to be truly classified as a crystal, hematite is actually an iron oxide mineral 

A very powerful and protective stone, Hematite (aka “The Stone for the Mind”) is my go-to metaphysical armor. As dark hued stones are revered for their protective qualities, hematite is the quintessential psychic protection piece. It enhances feelings of groundedness and connection to the Earth, stabilizing your emotions. This is important, especially when in a situation where your feelings are in flux (such as dealing with a difficult person).

If you are highly sensitive or empathic, this stone will help shield your aura from negative energies. I recently gifted a beautiful piece of hematite to my mother to guard her new home and protect her sacred home space. It can also be worn in a bracelet on the left wrist to create a protective barrier for your auric field.

AOTW: Octopus

While creatures of the sea don’t immediately pop into my mind when I think of animals, I have to admit; there’s is something fascinating about the brilliant octopus. Incredibly clever, agile, and quick, the octopus reminds us to be flexible. We should remember that we don’t have to feel obligated or connected to people or situations which do not serve us. Octopus represents that idea of free choice and being able to go in your own direction. The gift octopus gives us is the knowing that:

Whatever has happened to you in your life, there is the possibility of healing. 

The show is filled with thoughtful questions and sharp insight. I recommend taking the time to listen to the full Q & A episode to see if any of the topics resonate with you.

The book of the week is Mary Stewart’s Rose Cottage. You can download an audible version of this book using a free trial through www.audibletrial.com/psychicteachers.