I love traveling, especially when I get to immerse myself in and learn about diverse cultures. I have studied 8 languages, traveled to over 40 countries, and lived in 7 of those for education, research or archaeological excavation.
here I am hiking along the chalaadi glacier under Mt Ushba in the Svaneti region of Georgia
I am a published scholar of ancient Iranian and Central Asian art. Two subjects that I am particularly passionate about are ancient fashion design systems (the subject of my doctoral research) and banqueting silver (the subject of my online database project, eurasiansilver.com).
here I am presenting on ancient Sogdian paintings in the galleries of the State Hermitage Museum, St. Petersburg, Russia
I received my first sewing machine from my mother when I was 6 years old. I began using and altering commercial patterns but over the past several years have taught myself pattern-making. I love the design and construction process, and now have a closet filled with much of my own work.
here I am wearing trousers & a top that I made of cotton batik & recycled wool
I love mid-distance running: 10 km is my ideal distance but I will race up to 25 km for a good trail course. Running, especially in the forest, is my ultimate state of bliss.
here I just ran a 10 km course in upstate New York & placed 3rd
I am a proud paw-rent to Altaika and Karakum, my borzoi (Russian wolfhounds). They love chasing, hiking, and just relaxing on the sofa in the evening with me.
here Altaika is attempting to take a seat on me in the park
Growing up, my family's home was filled with house plants, so I inherited these plant-loving genes. My current obsessions are epiphyllums & caladiums.
here I am standing next to a giant blue agave on the streets of Encinitas