Hi Guys!

Well here I am in New Orleans as a first-timer…but I get to actually live here for the next few months! I am already in love with it! What is awesome about my work as a nutritionist for actors is that I can “sample” living in various cities for the few months that it takes to film a movie- but with the bonus of housing, a car and other expenses taken care of. I admit… it’s sort of a dream! This past year I got to “sample” Chicago and Atlanta, outside of my main locations still being New York and LA. Getting to live somewhere for a few months is so much different than just passing through in a week or less- it lets you really get a feel for what the city is all about!

Here are some great things about New Orleans that I love so far:

1.     The food shopping has been great! I haven’t had a chance to seek out a farmer’s market yet, but in the grocery markets I’ve been able to find most everything I’ve needed, such as gluten-free breads, tortillas, etc. vegan chocolate chips, etc. On the slightly downer side I’ve had a hard time finding organic collard greens, spinach and celery. But amazing sprouts! Since I’m starting from scratch, I’ve been getting things set up from a blank kitchen. Today I was in the store 3 separate times!

2.     The restaurant I went to catered to us! Restaurant is singular because I’ve only been out once since arriving late Fri. – Saturday night for a kickoff party for the movie. We ate dinner in a private dining room with about 25 people. Despite the repute of New Orleans cooking- which seems to largely be the antithesis of healthy eating- gumbo and jumbalaya and Cajun fried stuff, etc. – I was thrilled that this particular restaurant in the Roosevelt Hotel made veggie dishes like lightly cooked kale, roasted brussel sprouts, cheese-free salads, and veggie entrees as requested. Yay! So it is possible to eat healthy out anywhere if you try!!

 

3.     I love the Uptown/Garden District areas! How come I never knew about these adorable walking areas, full of pottery- making shops, dance studios, beautiful homes and little boutiques? I LOVE! I never wanted to come to Mardi Gras in college, because well you know, I thought the scene would be too much. And everyone talks about the French Quarter… But I love the little areas near me I’ve been exploring! Love, love, love!!

4.     I found a yoga home! I’m pretty specific about the yoga I practice, and on the road 99% of the time I only do self practice. I definitely have my spots in NY and LA. In the past year, I did not find a yoga home in Chicago and Atlanta. BUT, though it’s really early I have so far loved Wild Lotus Yoga, which is where I’ll be taking class here when I can fit it in- as an option from self practice.

5.     Everyone is so freaking nice! Like really nice, in a genuine way. People are present, and really talk to you and want to help you out. It makes me so happy to find everyone so nice!!

I will write more soon about my new fantastic adventure, as I am getting settled. I still haven’t unpacked anything at all except for kitchen equipment, but I am slowing going in that direction. I hope you are doing well and had a great holiday!

Om Shanti,

Love, Kimberly