ARK

Acts of Random Kindness.

I watched Evan Almighty this evening, and if there's anything that I took away from it it's ARK - "acts of random kindness". The opportunity to bring families closer together. The chance to spread some cheer into a person's life. The possibility of being courageous in the face of adversity. Who would have thought that all of that deep thought could have been drawn from Steve Carrell.

I've been in big "reflection mode" especially as the year quickly comes to a close. I have several resolutions, many included in my 101 in 1001, and I really plan on making good on my goals. There's talk and there's action. I want to take the action stance. My goals are of the personal, professional, and social varieties. 2008 is going to be a big year of changes and improvements. I can feel it. I can taste it.

My biggest social goal - as in helping the community type of social - is to work on a Habitat for Humanity Project or something similar. I participated in the Family Giving Tree program at work, and it felt great to be able to help kids who wouldn't normally even get a Christmas gift. I'd like to continue on the road of acts of random kindness.

As for my professional goals, I plan on seeking opportunities to advance my career, internally and externally. I like my manager and enjoy my coworkers, but they can't hold back my progress. I definitely feel like it's time for some growth in responsibility. And satisfaction. And pay.

Finally, as one of my more personal goals, I'm really going to work on talking to my parents about life-changing events. I've been making strides and it's become more comfortable talking about my boyfriend. It's no longer the awkward, "yeah, you know *cough* boyfriend *cough*" and "I'm going to *cough* visit *cough* him this weekend". I think a mutual respect and understanding has been established. Now I'll have to see what their "serious conversation" threshold is. This is the big one.

Give a little. Get a little. Give a little more.

Merry Christmas!

The big day is here! I will be spending the day (and the coming days) hanging out with my wonderful family. We did our usual Christmas Eve routine - Midnight Mass (although tonight it was at 10) and opening gifts after midnight. The priest delivered a good message - as most Christmas sermons should be - about remembering and sharing the simplicities of life. Sharing love, spreading reconciliation, accepting differences. Everyone can use a little.

My family is unlike any other. They are all so giving and loving, I couldn't ask for a better family. Family is one of those things/concepts/ideas that we can take for granted in an instant. We think, "oh that person will always be there". That's not necessarily the case. Change happens in an instant. I believe that Christmas is the perfect time to tell your loved ones that you do, and continue to, love them.

Saying I love you makes a big difference. I know I get a certain warm fuzzy feeling when someone - my boyfriend, my sister, my parents - tell me that they love me. It's a tiny affirmation that tells me "Hey, you're loved". There are a lot of folks out there that lack love. Whether they are lonely, isolated, alone, or abandoned, there are people who never hear utterance "I love you."

Say I love you. Spread the love.

Merry Christmas!

2007 reflections

I have an inkling of being on a mini winter break. I have Monday and Tuesday off, and I’m pretty sure I’m going to play hooky the rest of the week. Next week I’m taking vacation time. Two weeks off from work? Sweet!

It’s not that I hate my job. I like it. It works for now. But I’m definitely getting to the point where I need a break from everything. No more bureaucracy. No more stress. No more deadlines. No more fighting fires. Relaxation and spending time with the ones I love. Now that’s what I’m talking about.

I’ve also been busy completing some crochet projects. I just finished putting together this patchwork-like quilt. I was in the middle of completing the 5 ½ hour throw when I misplaced the last of the yarn. It was literally like it disappeared. I must have absent-mindedly carried it away or finished it off without realizing it. But I am pretty convinced that I still had it right in front of me.

I really enjoy crocheting. I used to think that it was an old lady pastime. However, there’s been a major resurgence in yarn crafts. My co-worker is a knitter extraordinaire. She whips out socks and hats like a machine. Her blog and projects can be found here. (www.myowntwosticks.com) I picked up crocheting last winter when my sister started on a scarf. I’ve never been very good with the knitting needles, so I decided to give crocheting a whirl. It was much more my speed. Since then, I’ve cranked out several scarves, and more recently, four blankets and I’m working on two more scarves for gifts. It’s therapeutic and can be done while sitting in front of the TV.

I’m planning a serious overhaul come the beginning of the year. New diet, new discipline, new organization. I was inspired by the “101 in 1001” and I’m going to make a concerted effort to get to those 101 things. Starting with purging my closet. Then changing and sticking to an eating plan. And an exercise plan. Plus, I am going to make a concerted effort on the next milestone in life.

My 101 in 1001

Well, I suppose I will kick some new life into this blog with a goal-oriented entry. I came across an intriguing entry on the Blue Orchid Designs blog about 101 goals to complete in the next 1001. I figure that it’s the end of the year and almost the start of 2008, so my 1001^st day should drop right around September 15, 2010, since it will be another leap year soon.

I feel extremely lucky that I’ve been able to do some of the things that most people only dream of doing. Graduating from college, living in France, backpacking across Europe, fluency in two languages, to name a few. I think I’m going to post things that can be accomplished in the next 1001 days. I’m looking forward to crossing something off the list!

Here it goes:

1. blog everyday for a month
2. learn how to cook and ease kitchen anxiety
3. learn how to use Digital SLR to its full potential
4. take better photos
5. post photos consistently on Flickr
6. go to the gym at least four days a week for a month
7. try a new class at 24Hour Fitness
8. search for other job possibilities
9. meet my boyfriend’s friends
10. learn full potential of Photoshop
11. move out of parents’ house
12. organize my bedroom
13. clean out my closet and donate unwanted clothes to Goodwill
14. purchase new or “previously owned” car
15. have my friends meet his friends
16. explore major cities – Atlanta, Chicago, Washington DC, Seattle, Denver
17. spend time in New York City
18. practice taking more portrait photos
19. crochet a beanie for the boyfriend
20. learn how to surf, even for a split second
21. go to Vegas as an adult
22. go wine tasting, I do live close enough to Napa & Sonoma!
23. take a cake decorating class
24. design logo for future business
25. take a ballroom dancing class
26. move out to Texas to be with boyfriend
27. schedule annual physicals
28. remember to have car oil changed
29. have extended family meet boyfriend
30. set aside money to donate to charity of choice
31. participate in Habitat for Humanity Project
32. look into the possibilities to PMP my job (Project Management Professional)
33. get engaged, and have legitimate reason to read wedding magazines like Brides, Martha Stewart Weddings, The Knot, etc.
34. shadow a professional photographer
35. buy a house
36. design personal stationery
37. decorate said house and give it sense of style
38. finish painting room
39. take a cooking class
40. read at least one book a month
41. go to the library more often
42. go to Hawaii and reclaim summer color
43. document my 101 goals as completed
44. plan fantastic wedding on my terms
45. complete my first quilt project – already bought the fabric!
46. go to the Philippines during Christmastime to visit family
47. cook semi-fancy romantic dinner for self and boyfriend. from scratch, without killing or making us sick
48. build photo portfolio
49. visit the New England during the fall
50. buy a new computer and Adobe Design bundle
51. as a complement to completion of #33 and #44, apply to be a Bee J
52. go on a cross-country road trip
53. learn more on the fundamentals of photography
54. ride my bike around the park
55. go on daily walks when the weather is nice
56. lose 20lbs... if they can do it on Biggest Loser, I can too!
57. start cooking own meals to make good on goal #56
58. visit best friend in Italy while still stationed there
59. return to Lyon for Fete des Lumieres
60. write a journal entry everyday for a month
61. keep a food journal consistently also in efforts to make good on #56
62. make a pair of earrings (or more)
63. clean out wallet and purse... rogue receipts be gone!
64. spend the holidays with boyfriend’s family
65. send out Christmas cards with photos of us

I enjoy crafty things

I never thought I'd admit how much I enjoy Martha Stewart's ideas. But this is now the second time I have in this blog. I have to admit, she's got some good ideas. Things that make me think "wow, now that's a great idea!". I'm not sure what to call this. Marthastewartideaitis?

I'm not quite at the point of crafting up the wazoo every evening, trying out every idea or recipe I see. However, I have been in the middle of quite a few projects. Over the last few weeks, I've completed 3-4 crochet projects, purchased fabric to make a quilt, and decoupaged. It's just so much fun. And I can't wait to do more. If money and time were no object, I would need a bigger space to live in for sure.

I'm hoping that with all the ideas that I've gathered and saved on the handy-dandy Martha Stewart website, as well as daily/weekly perusals of WeddingBee, Blue Orchid Designs, and TheKnot, that I will be able to plan a great budget wedding. I know I shouldn't even be thinking about that yet, but, hey, a girl can dream about it. It's my prerogative. I'm not yet a full-fledged DIY gal, but I've done enough home improvement and mini craft projects, that the transition should be a snap.

I guess I'm just really worried about how much it will cost to pull off a wedding. I've seen those shows on WE -- Bridezillas, Rich Bride Poor Bride, Platinum Weddings, etc. The fact that there are a lot of sources that claim that you can't have a wedding for less than $10K seems ludicrous, but at the same time perfectly believable. What with the price of a gallon of gas? I'm persevering towards a budget of that $10K or less. I guess I will cross that bridge when I get there.

2007

2007 is nearly over. The holidays are in full swing with full-time Christmas carols jamming the radio waves since before Thanksgiving. The hustle and bustle of shopping madness and non-stop "one-day" sales overwhelm us. Cookie exchanges and holiday parties and luncheons threaten our year-long efforts to keep our figures. And yet, we go through the motions and apprehensions and joyous moments year after year. Those are the holidays I suppose.

Amidst the insanity that the holiday time can become, I love it all. I love the smell of freshly baked goodies. I love the challenge of finding the perfect gift. I love the holiday themed movies and TV specials that seemingly preempt regularly scheduled shows. I love the giving spirit that everyone, or most everyone seems to possess.

It's been an interesting 2007. I can't wait to see what 2008 will bring.

Hello December

Another year has blown by. Not to sound cliché, but I feel like it was just the beginning of 2007. I started my new role at the company in February, and to think I've been doing this for ten months already blows my mind. I've been dating my wonderful boyfriend for a little over two years and (almost) every moment has been fantastic, I just wish he was geographically closer. I've accepted that I live in my parents home still. I choose stability over destitution. I choose feasibility over struggle. I have come to find a set routine in what I do day to day, which helps in making time pass faster. It's nearly 2008.

My goal for the year has been to be a consistent blogger. What has actually happened, however, is that I am a sporadic blogger. I guess I feel like I'm trying to sound a certain way, or be perceived in a certain way that I'm still trying to find my "online" voice. Bit by bit, the more that I think about it, and the more that I remind myself that I have a blog makes it a little easier to write consistently. I guess I also wish that I had a certain subject that I was writing about. I usually write about whatever is on my mind at the time, but sometimes that is extremely boring to readers. Not that there are any readers, yet.

I think that I might start posting photos that I have taken, in addition to the ones that I have on my Flickr account. I am a budding photographer, hoping to one day turn pro. I think I might also post my culinary accomplishments, which at this point in time are few and far between. I'm trying to come up with new ideas for the new year. Which I hope will be a year of blogging.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Turkey day has come and now the holiday season is in full swing.

I'm thankful for many things this year. I have good health, a steady job, a loving family, and a wonderful boyfriend. My family is in good health and good spirits. My sister is in her last year of high school doing very well, and just about submit her applications to college. I have a steady job that perhaps isn't exactly what I want to be doing, but it allows me to save a good amount of money and enjoy life outside of work. I have a great boyfriend who loves me for who I am, no matter what. Life is good. Thank you God for all your blessings this year.

I <3 Martha Stewart... Online

I was never a fan of the pretentious Yankee gal. That fake smile and condescending attitude do nothing for me. But I must say that she sure has a mouthwatering website. And I will admit that I enjoy her ideas and recipes. I'm just not a fan of her personally. While imprisoned to scan 356 double-sided pages today, I thought, "Why not browse some of Martha's ideas?" My sister had borrowed her baking cookbook from the library and I found a couple that I wanted to save for holiday treats or birthday cakes.

I don't know why I haven't surfed into her online library of recipes, crafts, and entertaining ideas. Probably because I was slightly embarrassed to admit that I like Martha Stewart's ideas. Or maybe because I can't stand her on and off-air personality. Who knows. I'm glad to have found a new resource for, as her magazine is named, "Living".

Running

For the first time in several years, I ran. I ran, legs sprinting, arms pumping, heart rejoicing, free. Of course the sprint lasted only a minute, but the fleeting moment was enough to last.

For the longest time I had been meaning to try and run. Usually I have an adverse reaction to treadmills. I don't run outdoors, unless it's for my life. This last week, however, I decided to be brave -- that, and all the elliptical machines were taken, and attempt a brisk walk. I was feeling good, adjusting incline and speed. Then I decided, why not go out of the ordinary routine and try running. I was a little apprehensive about falling down, but I made it through my one minute of sprinting. Intervals make running for non-runners possible.

Cook? Who me?

New fiscal year. New leaf. Pot-ay-to, Pot-ah-to.

I decided of the last few days that I wanted to learn how to cook. Well, I know how to cook -- I don't have to ask how to boil Ramen noodles, let alone water itself. But I would like to hone my culinary skills, since my skills basically lie in making things out of a box or frozen bag.

I think I probably knocked my boyfriend out of his chair when I mentioned this to him today.

It all started at a little cupcake shop called Teacake Bake Shop in Emeryville. I was only looking to break my $20 bill in order to pay the $1 parking and I thought that $2 for a cookie was a little pricey, but it was the best $2 I have spent in a long time. The cookie was that good. It was of the simple chocolate chunk variety, but something about it made it special. The bake shop touts that only the finest ingredients are used, and I believe it. Visit the site and make your mouth water.

This got me to thinking: what a great business! Making cookies and cupcakes. I was talking to my sister about this idea -- especially since she is the baker/pastry artist in the family -- and it got some wheels turning. Now, of course, this was just an idea that felt like it came from out of the blue. But who knows, a couple of years out and a few business plans down the line, and we two could have a lucrative enterprise. And a profile on the Food Network. Hey, a girl can dream big.

So how did I decide that I wanted to learn to cook? The idea of making baked goods can only get someone so far. Baked goods are fantastic as gifts and peace offerings, but after time will make you rotund. Also, I'd like to not eat like a college student for the rest of my life. Ramen noodles and Mac N Cheese aka "Struggle Food" as we like to call it, is not sustenance. I realize now that eventually, I'll be the one who is relied upon for food, and what will I have to show for it? Nothing at the moment. So this is my new fiscal year resolution. Learn to cook a few "go-to" recipes.

Here I go!

Happy Anniversary!

Happy 2 years to my best friend and love of my life!

Thanks Threadless!

Threadless is having a sale! I had heard about Threadless from my coworker when she showed up in a really cute t-shirt. I had totally forgotten the name of the group until I stumbled upon the website from Your Heart Out, which I also discovered today. There are so many cute and funny t-shirts, and they are having a great back to school sale. I nabbed 4 shirts, 1 to be a gift, at $10 each. I couldn't resist.

I got the "Stupid raisins, Stay out of my Cookies!
It just spoke to me. This is my sentiment all the time! Well, I must admit that I do enjoy Oatmeal Raisin Cookies, but other than that, raisins are for bread and cinnamon rolls.

I found a couple of other nifty and seemingly one-of-a-kind shirts (except when you walk down the street and spot someone wearing the same shirt, of course). I think that Threadless is a great idea/concept. They also use American Apparel, a sweatshop free company. It also gives a great opportunity for budding artists and designers hoping to break out on the scene.

I also spotted this super cute one by French designer Jean-Sebastian Deheeger:














This led me to find his blog neskoncept.com/blog and to find this really adorable shirt. Sadly, it's only available on a French website that doesn't cater to the US yet. And this design is not on Threadless... yet. That's ok, I can still admire this designer's work.













I've been beefing up my design, photography, and food bookmarks today.

Happy September!

Inspiration

For the last several months, and even more since I invested in my Nikon D80, I've been thinking about starting my own photography business. I still have a long way to go with honing my skills and improving technique, but I think that it could definitely become my full time gig some day. I love capturing life, laughter, and quiet moments that are important to an individual. I think that I need to invest in some other lenses, but with time and a lot of practice, I'm determined to make something of my hobby.


Today I found out about the Love Affair Workshop. At first I didn't know what it could be. I quickly learned that it's a workshop for women photographers in North Carolina. It's a gathering of four photographers from around the country, helping other women photographers improve their skills and technique. I was stoked! While I won't be able to attend their workshop in February, I would definitely like to keep tabs on them and go to one of their workshops in the future. It would be a fantastic opportunity to network with other photographers as well as learn from the experiences of others. The things you find when just searching around! Thanks Style Me Pretty! Eventually, I would also like to attend the WPPA Convention, usually held in Las Vegas.

Keep reaching for it!!!

Speaking of Stress...

So it's been a pretty lousy 48 hours. Originally, it was only 24 hours, until I had to meet this morning's mishap on top of everything else I have been dealing with at work.

Let's begin with yesterday, Wednesday, August 22. I've been battling this one author for almost a month about the contents of his book. The issue at hand is his dubious opinion of the accuracy checker we hired to review his book. Granted, I will admit that perhaps his book was a little too high level for her to check; however, that does not give him the right to call her incompetent, send her irate e-mails, or throw temper tantrums. In essence, he does not trust the work completed, and wants it rechecked. What I don't understand is why he has been so resistant to helping and working with the solutions manual author as well as the accuracy checker. Instead, he decides to point his fat fingers at everyone else. Fast-forward to me trying to compare two manuscripts on a topic that I don't understand at all! Until midnight. ::sigh:: The book is supposed to go to press next week. Actually, it was supposed to go to press originally last week. I went to bed dreaming of the foreign language of mathematical statistics.

Enter this morning. I head to work a little later than usual since I had worked so late. I was approaching my exit on the freeway and I started to hear a vibrating noise. I didn't think much of it because I thought that it was the large big rig behind me. I merged right. The sound didn't dissipate and I noticed that my car was also starting to shake. Luckily, I was very close to my exit. I turned left, and I also noticed that the lady in the car next to me was looking at my car with a funny look. I pulled into the gas station to discover just what I needed (not really): a flat tire. I remembered I had a spare, so I called AAA, and ordered a repair truck. Within 30 minutes the truck arrived, and the driver then discovered that my spare had a nail through it. Fantastic! My only option was to get towed to the tire store and get my tire replaced. After I got everything straightened out between the tow truck and tire store guy, I was set. It just felt so "perfect" that after all the stress of the night before, it carried over to this morning.

I am taking tomorrow off, except for a short phone meeting with my boss. I need it. I need to not hear from that author ever again. His book needs to be printed. I am not responsible for it's accuracy. It's only a job and I don't get paid enough to worry about everything.

Good night.

Hello Stress

I started this week thinking that it would be an easy week. I caught up on most of my projects last week and everything seemed to be running smoothly. Then I opened my email.

I found multiple irate emails from an author who was upset about the process of his book. He ranted about how there were all kinds of incorrect answers, that the accuracy checker was a joke, and that he couldn't understand how everything had gone wrong when everyone had assured him that all was right. I wanted to write back "Calm down drama queen" but of course that is neither professional nor cordial.

This is not the first irate email I've received from this author. It's probably the fourth or fifth, but I was able to deflect those emails and forward them to my manager. Unfortunately, she's out of state until Tuesday, and the last few days, his ranting has become my burden to bear. That's always great. Some quick thinking and effective problem solving? No problem.

Luckily, the problem has been resolved, for the moment. I definitely felt like the lion in the comic and wanted to choke the living daylights out of him, or a quick, hard smack across the face. I think what stressed me out the most was the fact that if conscious steps were taken from the get-go, a lot of these headaches could have been avoided. But alas, such is life, and as my manager tells me, "What's happened, happened. Let's figure out a solution." It's hard not to dwell on things gone awry, but issues need to be solved regardless of personal feelings towards the situation. I'm glad that I have such a good and much improved support system at work.

No more bellyaching for me.


*Comic courtesy of jwolfe.clara.net/humour/favorites.htm

Adventures in Air Travel

I arrived at the airport on Wednesday afternoon to have my makeup remover thrown away, simply because it was 0.6 ounces over the limit, then have two of my bags x-rayed twice, and my suitcase searched through and rummaging through my underwear. Fantastic my private items out in public in Salt Lake City.

When I finally made it to the gate, I sit down, open up Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows only to cringe at the latest announcement: my flight is delayed "indefinitely". What does that mean?! Apparently there were thunderstorms looming in Dallas, wreaking a bit of havoc at the airport. Best-Case scenario: flight leaves a little late. Worst-Case scenario: flight gets canceled. Having already experienced a canceled flight to Dallas because of the weather, I didn't want it to happen again. But what can you do when you are left at the mercy of the ticket agent behind the desk? Not much, but hope that he or she is in a good mood. Thankfully, our ticket agent (never got his name) was in an excellent disposition considering the circumstances of grumbling passengers.

Luckily, at the next update time of 4:30 (the flight was scheduled for 4:10), the ticket agent reported that the FAA had scheduled our plane with a departure time of 5:56, meaning that if all went well we would board the plane between 5:00 and 5:15, push back, and wait for our designated departure time. I was crossing my fingers, while thoroughly engrossed in the final adventures of Harry Potter.

We boarded the plane around 5:20, and for the first time, I had seen a flight that was nearly 1/2 empty. Each row had at least one open seat, so I don't really understand why they charged me $100! for a flight change with so many open seats. Oh well, I digress. I had heard on the way on the plane that they would be feeding all the passengers due to the delay, however, I had already purchased a sub from Quizno's. I was a little miffed. As I sat and we took off into the sky, and held on for dear life through the bits of turbulence, I felt like anything but hungry. Thankfully, as we crossed through the clouds, the ride evened out, and I regained my appetite. Turns out they never meant to feed those left in coach; I must have misunderstood. I was glad I bought the sandwich.

I finished Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, and tried to sleep the rest of the flight. Good news from the cockpit: we would be landing early! Yay. However, once we actually did hit the ground, we taxied for about 15 minutes, and then sat. The captain announced that due to the numerous flights that were delayed because of the weather, we'd have to wait for the gate we were assigned to be vacated. It would be another 15 minutes or so. Great. I tried my hardest to read the content in the American Way magazine, but that was hardly engaging. Cent and I texted back and forth, wondering if I was on or off the plane or what. Nearly 20 minutes later we finally budged towards the gate. Sheesh. Then, to my utter dismay, we sat about 30 feet from the gate. After another ten minutes, the captain told us there was "no reason we should be waiting" but that the ramp staff wasn't there to help park the plane! What?! We finally pulled into gate A24, and I was finally liberated!

Gotta love travel.

Summertime in the City

I didn't really think that I would be spending a week in Salt Lake City (well I knew, but you know), and I didn't expect to spend the first day all alone. Sounds sad when I put it that way. I arrived in Salt Lake City in the morning, only to find out that the other person is a no show. Her flight got canceled because of a mechanical issue and the part for the plane had to be shipped from Canada. Go figure.

I eventually got my bearings, and set out. While SLC isn't quite NYC, it still has a downtown. The handy dandy tourist magazine had a section you could pull out and outlined all the major areas of downtown. Temple Square, the Gateway, Main Street, Broadway West, Broadway East, 100 South, and City Creek. I was a little surprised to read about the 35 places to "party". I suppose it's because SLC has this bias set against it considering that the main Mormon Temple sits around the corner from my hotel.

I made my way over to the Gateway - the outdoor shopping mall - to find food and maybe do a little shopping. I took the light rail which conveniently runs for free within the confines of downtown. I like free! I ate a nice salad at Rumbi Island Grill - a place I've never heard of - and enjoyed a piece of mango cheesecake. Good thing I did a lot of walking too!

Then, I figured that since I am here, I would go and visit Temple Square. It is Salt Lake City's #1 Tourist attraction after all. I took the free 30 minute tour led by two sisters of the Latter Day Saints. In all fairness I did find the tour interesting, though I don't quite understand the religion. I can't quite wrap my head around it. I saw the Assembly Hall, the Tabernacle, and the Conference Center. I watched a movie about Joseph Smith in his namesake memorial building since I had nothing better to do. If I muster the energy tomorrow, I might go see the Tabernacle choir sing in the morning. We'll see about that one.

The conference starts tomorrow. Salt Lake City + statisticians = fun! ;-)

New Workout

So I've ventured to a new kind of workout this week. I was getting tired of the same old routine in TurboKickbox at 24 Hour Fitness. I'm tired of the instructor, tired of the same routine every week, basically I just needed something new. Enter 24Aqua.

I guess I never really saw myself as doing water aerobics. I've done some water ballet in the past, but that is more like synchronized swimming than anything else. Water aerobics is all in its name--Aerobics in the water.

Then there's the question, who wants to get into a public pool with a bunch of strangers in their swimsuit, especially if they are shy? I do!

Quite frankly, the Water Aerobics class I take is not outside; it's in an indoor pool with the deepest point dipping to four feet. Therefore, unlike other public pools, there aren't too many onlookers besides the people in the jacuzzi.

I must admit that when I think of Water Aerobics, and when I asked around the office, the first thought in mind was senior citizens. Kind of like Jazzercize. You imagine older folks in their workout gear and sweatbands feeling the burn. This class isn't quite like that. The evening water class is mostly composed of middle aged women trying to get a good workout. There's no judgment just burned calories. Supposedly you can burn 350-550 calories. Woo hoo! Sounds like a good deal to me.

Park musings

Sometimes you just need to take some time and relax. Let your mind slip away from the ins and outs of every day life, and just kickback. It's nice to just spend time with friends who are in the same mindset -- wishing to enjoy the day.

Yesterday was a perfect example of such an afternoon. My friends and I ventured out to Tilden Park in the Berkeley Hills. We sat on the picnic blanket I picked up from Target last summer. The day was practically perfect. There wasn’t a cloud in the sky, not too hot, with a pleasant breeze. The original idea was to go on a picnic, but the idea of food at the time kind of fell through. No worries. Armed with magazines and other assorted reading material, not to mention an arsenal of things to catch up on, hanging out on a lazy summer afternoon was just what we needed.

While we were at the park, there was a wedding taking place up the hill. We could hear the string quartet and brass ensemble playing. Luckily, we were not in plain view, so as not to distract from the main event – the wedding. In fact, we the topic of weddings kept coming up in the ebb and flow of our conversations that afternoon. I have a co-worker who just got hitched, and another two who will have their nuptials in the coming months. I don’t, however, have any close friends who are engaged. (Not yet anyway).

I suppose it’s coming to that next milestone in our lives. Friends and acquaintances who fall in the same age group are stressing over fonts and invitations, having their final fitting, taking engagement photos, and of course getting hitched. It’s almost surreal to think about, but at the same time very real. And who knows, I could be next.

Once the sun finally descended behind the trees at the park, we drove to Indian Rock (I think that’s what it’s called) and took in the spectacular view of Berkeley, the Bay, and the Bridges. Quite amazing. Then we ventured to Gregoire’s, a hole-in-the-wall establishment offering a set menu of French cuisine for takeout. Seems like a misnomer to call French cuisine takeout, but that’s what it was. And it was excellent. Visit them online Gregoire Restaurants.

Joyeux 14 Juillet!

Vacation time is over...

But the memories will last a lifetime.

Going on late afternoon promenades. Discovering the adventurer Bear Grylls. Commandeering the streets of New York at midnight. The sweet taste of a Chippi. Savoring the wonderful flavors of every meal. Battling the minuscule beasts - the deer tick. The Scarface parking lot attendant. The Summer Murder Mystery movie. Capturing over 1000 photos. Enjoying life.

The vibrant energy of this household is something I treasure and embrace. Though at times a bit chaotic, I can feel the family's liveliness pumping through the house. Random outbursts into showtunes and melodic interludes. An abundance of food being prepared and devoured nearly all in the same breath. Artists' scrawls and gamer strategy. There is never a dull moment at this address. Calm comes in sweet little doses. The true spirit of a large family, overflowing with love, never skimping on kindness.

I'm thinking that most people my age wouldn't spring for a ticket to got to the South Coast of Massachusetts for a week. I would imagine trips to Cancun, Miami, Hawaii, etc. But I love it here when I get the chance to just hang out. Plus we caravaned to New York City. It's like a two-for-one deal.

My sister bought this great plaque inscribed with "Families are like Fudge... Mostly sweet with a few nuts". I love catching up on the latest family gossip, hearing about stories of my mom and auntie's family growing up, and my cousins' crazy uncle. The best tales are always the unbelievably true ones. Life truly is like a box of chocolates - there are sweet cremes, sticky and chewy ones, and of course the nutty variety... and you never know which one you're going to get.

Ah, family.

Bear Grylls

During my stay here, my cousins and I discovered a new show on the Discovery Channel - Man vs. Wild starring the crazy and daring adventurer Bear Grylls, née Edward Michael Grylls.

We watched a couple of episodes last night around 1 in the morning, with the first scene of him drinking his own urine in the Australian Outback, in order to combat dehydration. I suppose desperate times call for desperate measures. I won't lie, it was disgusting, but something about the pure horror of it kept us intrigued and interested, trying to see if he would survive.

Basically, the premise of the show is that he gets dumped in the middle of nowhere at some geographical location, such as the Australian Outback, the Colorado Rockies, the African Savannah, and the Florida Everglades. He has nothing but the shirt on his back and possibly a few supplied in tow, such as a knife and flint stick. Everything else comes from pure wits. Every episode is a harrowing journey, and almost painful to watch. And yet, even when things look dire, he makes it out. It wouldn't be much of a show if he didn't make it out.

So far, we've seen him drink his own pee, bite off the head of a live frog, kill and roast a turtle, eat live earthworms, swallow whole maggots, and wrangle a baby alligator. I'm sure that's just the beginning. He's quite an amazing adventurer or a truly fearless idiot. Either way, he's quite entertaining to watch and imitate his British accent. Check it out here: BearGrylls.com

Hello New York!

After a three year absence, I made it back to New York! It was just as I left it the last time, only the weather was quite muggy and the sky constantly threatening to rain. It did sprinkle here and there, but no torrential downpour until we were outside of Manhattan.

My sister had never been to New York City, so we took the liberty to show her around, our first stop being the beautiful Grand Central Station, then 5th Avenue and 42nd Street - or the New York Public Library and Bryant Park. After that, we moseyed over to Broadway to check out Times Square. We walked down to Rockefeller Center, through the drizzle and scurried back to the hotel in the rain to make it back for dinner.

There's just something about New York... it was like I was there yesterday and finding things was like the back of my hand. I love the fact that it is set on a grid, making it very easy to find locations just from giving street and cross street names. We also went to the Met to see some Impressionism, strolled through a section of Central Park, and stopped at the Moma to check out Van Gogh's Starry Night. We made the obligatory stop at the World of Disney New York, and ate lunch in Little Italy. We took the Subway down to Ground Zero and remembered respectfully and mindfully at the Visitor's Center right next to the site. Finally, we hurried to Union Square for some shopping, and dashed back to the hotel to get ready for dinner. We motored around the city on full speed - almost like real New Yorkers, except that we were totally tourists. Since we only had one full day in the city, we didn't make it to the super huge Macy's or the Statue of Liberty, but all the more reason to come back!

East Coast Living

Here we are in New Bedford, MA. We arrived early this morning, with the sunshine nearly blinding our eyes. The flight was smooth, and while the middle seat of the non-upgraded plane wasn't the most comfy, it wasn't bad. I slept the entire way, as Wild Hogs didn't exactly entice me to stay awake. And although it was technically 4:45am on my body clock, the fresh air, and sight of familiar faces was enough to jostle me awake.

I'm officially on vacation. No work, no worries, all fun. I can sleep in without pangs of guilt and eat until my hearts desire. I know that probably isn't the brightest plan, given all my efforts of working out these past few months, but hey, why not live a little? My cousins and sister are fantastic cooks, able to prepare a beautiful spread, enviable by anyone.

There's a party tonight to celebrate my cousin's exist from the teen world, and into his twenties. Ah, to be surrounded by college kids again, haha, as if I'm so far-removed from that sort of environment. There's going to be shrimp, pad thai, chips and salsa, chutney, roasted potatoes, and I think that's just the beginning. There are two kinds of cakes and I'm sure there's to be plenty of fun.

While I'm here, I'd like to hit the beach. Or at least something vaguely resembling a beach. Also, I'd like to take every open opportunity to practice taking photographs. I've already taken some nice nature shots, as well as some up close portraits. Given that I'm still jetlagged and in denial as to how tired I really am,
I think it'll take me another day to get my act together completely. I'm excited though. I get to have more subjects than just my two silly puppies. They are still my favorite subjects though.

A space to live in

I always like to think about what my future living space is going to look like. I really enjoy watching shows on HGTV and TLC about decorating spaces. I especially enjoy Design on a Dime, Decorating Cents, Color Splash, as well as those decluttering shows like Mission Organization and Clean Sweep. I suppose there is an interior designer trapped inside of me somewhere. Could be something worse.

I have big dreams, thoughts, ideas, and if I had an unlimited budget the world would really be my oyster. I've always wondered where that came from. I could Google it. But then, of course, I get a reality check and just keep building my savings in the meantime. That doesn't mean the stream of ideas has to stop. I'm fascinated just walking into IKEA. Some might call that sad, but I call it fun.

We've redecorated our house one room at a time for the last 5-6 years. One year we did the kitchen, when I still had free summers, and refinished the cabinet doors and painted the walls and hallway. Another year we painted the bathroom a whimsical undersea mural. Two summers ago, I scraped the ceiling of the dining room, retextured, and painted the walls. Amazing what a coat of paint will do to spruce up a room.

Last summer, I acted on a whim, went to Lowe's, bought some deep sea aqua paint, and painted about 2/3 of my bedroom. Unfortunately, in order to paint the rest of it, I would have to move some furniture, so my room continues to be 2/3 painted. At this point, who knows if it will ever get done. Earlier this year, having been inspired by the closet organization system my parents bought for the pantry, I designed and bought a wall of shelves for my room, courtesy of The Container Store. Thank you annual Elfa sale.

Now I'm looking towards my future abode whether it be an apartment, condo, or house, here or there, wherever, ideas springing from my head. I'm definitely not a white/eggshell wall type girl. I need color. I'm not scared of color. Those who are scared of a little paint need to face their fears. There are definitely worse things than a can of paint. Once I get into a place of my own, or by the time my boyfriend does, the cans of paint will start rolling. His place will get a nice spruce, whenever that is.

I especially like this room that was redone on Design on a Dime. The shelving area surrounding the headboard is a nice use of space that normally would be neglected. The walls are a nice shade of light yellow, with a nice accented geometrically pleasing bedspread.

Can't wait for a space of my own!

Co-Worker/Cubicle 101

This is where I work. Well, not really, but I am a cubicle monkey. I've accepted the fact that I'm stuck in a cube with no hopes of an office in sight. I've made my cube a home, and it's not so bad.

Anyway, over the last couple of weeks there's been a slew of new hires. And thus, a slew of training the newbies into settling into the cubicle sort of lifestyle. I have to admit, there are a lot of systems to learn and nuances on the job that never really come up unless you point them out. Then again, I suppose you become accustomed to the ins and outs of everyday work life.

Something that I've learned since joining the cubicle brigade about a year ago, is that there is a certain pecking order that is unspoken, but everyone tends to respect. Until someone new comes into the mix. Someone "oversteps" the boundary too soon. It's not that I'm a firm believer in hierarchies within the workplace, but I do think that one should respect the veterans who've been through it all. Let me explain.

One the new additions to the workplace falls into a distinct category -- annoyingly eager with an overly sweet superiority complex. She has this certain quality that just grates on your nerves. I've tried over the last few weeks to keep an open mind. Considering that I don't work directly with this person, the interaction is minimal and brief at best. However, this person has also proven herself to be especially bothersome. She seems to believe that her role is to be our boss. Granted, she is the assistant to our managers' manager, but that doesn't make her our manager for goodness sake! Given this state of mind she also thinks that we will adjust our schedules at the drop of a hat. Excuse me, but only my direct manager can ask me to do that. On top of that, I'm not going to look for a replacement for me to train anyone, that's her job! I don't know, but it just feels like she's now trying to run the place, and she's only been an employee for 3 weeks. Talk to me when you've been here at least 3 months. Even then, my colleagues and I with a much longer tenure will still have knowledge authority over her.

On the other hand, the jury is still out on the other two new hires. One has been pretty easy to work with and catches on quickly -- I really like that quality since I abide by it. The other one is soft-spoken and quiet, and seems a little stressed. Then again, it's only their first week. I have no negative opinions on them. They've been really easy to train so far.

We shall see where all of this goes...

Wedding Obsessed.

So I've decided that I'm now wedding obsessed. I'm not even talking about my own wedding, but weddings in general. I think it probably started when I started to meet more and more people who are engaged.

I started to check out things on The Knot, the so-called authority on everything wedding planning related. It's interesting to see pictures of brides and grooms celebrating their big day, seeing different design ideas for the invitations, reception decor, and favors. It's really great for anyone interested in design, and of course for brides-to-be. It has helpful articles about getting started planning, and etiquette guides. It also has a budget-maker, guest list tracker, and honeymoon ideas.

My coworker got engaged in October, and I've seen her go through the process from dating, to engagement, to her upcoming nuptials on Sunday. She is the first I've met to go through the whole process. Then she started blogging on WeddingBee. I'm a notorious (to myself) blog reader, especially when it comes to people that I know. I have this sense of curiosity, and I like to be on the up and up. And now I'm a regular reader of WeddingBee, reading about the upcoming weddings of people that I don't know. It's fun and it's like I'm getting the inside scoop on a subject I don't know much about so that I can be prepared sometime in the future. Hmm, if I were a WeddingBee... I'd want to be Miss....

I don't have any close friends who are married, let alone engaged, so this is a new chapter for me. I have two other married coworkers, and two engaged. The others are in my boat, dating, and of course there are some singletons. Not that there's anything wrong with that. I'm actually quite disturbed that so many people define their happiness based on their relationship status. A relationship does not necessarily equate with happiness; you make your own happiness, no matter the source. And one should never have to feel pigeon-holed into a category. Personally, I never thought that I would be thinking about wedding related events at this point in my life. Considering that it's uncharted territory, it's just fun thinking about it.

Although, it's shocking and scary that the average wedding costs $27K. That's my salary post-tax (more or less). That's a new car. That's a nice down payment on a house. That's four years tuition at a state university. That is a lot of money. I'm definitely in the budget-conscious camp, and I hope to spend no more than $15K on my someday wedding. I don't want a huge affair, just my family and close friends. Let's just say that you'd better be worth $50-$100/person. Haha. It's an interesting way of thinking about it, but true and to the point. I'm really glad that I can get an inside look into the world of planning a wedding. I'll have an upper hand on the do's and don't's and hopefully be a lot less lost than I could be...

I need a vacation.

I can't wait to go on vacation. While my vacation destination doesn't quite look like the picture above, it will be a fantastic getaway from all the hustle and bustle of the workplace. My boss has been on vacation for three weeks, and while it's been a blast, I've also had to fight some fires without her. I've had to answer crazy and stupid questions from people who should know the answers. I've felt "in charge" or "next in command". I never had this feeling in my previous job. And for all the stress that I have experienced, it's been great.

I would love to go to the Bahamas. Lavish in the lap of luxury at this resort -- The Atlantis. Or anywhere in the Caribbean really - Bermuda, St. Lucia, Virgin Islands, Antigua, etc. Beautiful locale, lush vegetation, and fabulous beaches. It's been a couple of years since I've been to a really nice beach. The most recent beach adventure was in 2005 in Mazatlan. Before that was in Hawai'i on the Big Island in 2000. I'm overdue. Maybe I'll have a beach getaway sometime in the near future.

I'm excited about going to the East Coast. New Bedford, Massachusetts and New York City. Woo hoo. We'll go Yankee watching and see the fantastic 4th of July display in the Big Apple. Hang out with the cousins and catch up on the family gossip. It will be great! I can't wait!

The Gig

I was looking around on CNN Money for some tips on where to stash some cash that would earn a good return. I contribute to my 401(k) which apparently puts me ahead of the game of a lot of people in my age group. Then I stumbled upon The Gig blog by Nadira Hira on the Fortune Magazine section of CNN Money.

She wrote a so-called field guide to Generation Y titled Attracting the twentysomething worker, part of a series called Gen Y at work. I can't help but agree with a myriad of things she noted. Including the fact that we're multitaskers. Constantly on the move with two, three, four different things going on all at once. What can I say, we were born in an era where we were told that we could be anything that we could imagine. I think we aspire toward that. Whatever the "it" may be. Growing up, I was a habitual multitasker. Watching TV while doing homework. Listening to music while reading. And now, I find myself busy at work, with 6 or 7 tabs in my Firefox window, iTunes humming, and carrying a couple of conversations on Google chat and AIM. All the while, doing my work, and finishing it early. And those who question how I can do it, I question - why can't you?

However, I won't go as far to say that I need to be coddled or have my hand held to get through the real world. I would not want my parents to accompany me to a job interview or first day of work. Now, really, who does that? Where's the independence? That's what college is supposed to get you to simulate at the very least. Sure you can live off the of the dining hall food, and go weeks without doing laundry, but really, one should be able to live on their own, having gone through the university system. Granted, I still live at home, but that's for mere economic purposes. I live in one of the most expensive areas of the country, and trying to rent a place would be a waste of money. Luckily, my parents are awesome and haven't kicked me out just yet. They encourage me to save my money, and one day soon I can put a down payment on a piece of real estate.

Alas, this is the digital age. If you want to keep up with we Gen Y'ers, better get some skills in multitasking activities.

Adventures in Eating.

I had first spin in Ethiopian food last night at Cafe Colucci in Oakland. I had always heard about Ethiopian food, a majority of good things, and I figured that I should at least give it a shot. Who wants another burger and fries?

I let my friends choose from the menu since they were better versed in what was good. We were served a nice tray of an array of foods. It included beef, chicken, lamb, and vegetables, covered in different kinds of sauces, and wonderful mix of spices. It was served with a type of bread, which to me resembled a salty crepe, called injera for eating with your hands. That’s one way to save money! No flatware.

The food, to my pleasant surprise, was fantastic. The mix of flavors was unlike any other that I’ve had. It was very reminiscent of Indian food, Mediterranean, Moroccan, and Greek, but still uniquely Ethiopian. It was fun eating with my hands, totally sharing amongst the five at the table. My only concern was that everyone needed to wash their hands before digging. Being that there was a boyfriend at the table, I was a little worried, but not overly anxious about it.

I was feeling just fine that evening after dinner. Unfortunately, this morning was a different story. My stomach felt like it was in knots all day, and I found myself constantly dashing to the restroom. It would have been better had I been at home. I was at work. I particularly dislike small public restrooms for this reason. You don’t have much privacy in your most personal matters. I personally loathe being in the restroom when someone else is having intestinal issues, I would think the same in the reverse situation. Luckily, I was able to track down some Pepto Bismol chewables. While these aren’t the greatest, it was better than suffering and having to hurry to the restroom in hopes of making it all the way into the stall.

Thankfully, the stomach pains and restroom visits have subsided. In spite of this negative experience, I’m still open-minded about Ethiopian food. Either it was the lack of someone washing hands or we received a bad batch of something. I would definitely try it again.

Saturday Afternoon blah.

Summer is here, just about. And, since my sister and dad are both out of the country, not to mention that my love is also out of state, I'm left to fend for myself while my mom is at work. I was motivated enough today to make it to the gym for a Turbo Kickbox sweat session. But now, I'm sitting at home watching some lame tv, with not much to do. There are some things that I could do, but I'm not very inclined. Ha. I thought that the gerbera daisies at left shows the signs of summer.

Even though I don't have too much to do, I am excited about my summertime activities. In two weeks I'll be heading out to Massachusetts to hang out my cousins. We're going to NYC for the 4th of July. It's supposed to be fantastic. After a 10 day stint on the East Coast, I have a couple weeks until I go to Salt Lake City for a Statistics Conference. While that doesn't sound so exciting, I will be seeing my boyfriend on the way there and the way back. It's going to be great.

New Purse, New Ring, and Money

I'm happy again. I was able to exchange my purse at Macy's without a problem. Even without the receipt. Even without the tag attached. It was a good thing that I didn't pay with cash. On my way out of the store, I stopped by the jewelry section. It just so happened that on Wednesday, it was Macy's "One Day Sale". The entire stock of Sterling Silver jewelry was 50% off. And the ring that I bought happened to be 75% off. The picture here isn't quite what it looks like. I think mine looks better, but this is similar to the style. I purchased the ring for $20. It was $80 originally!! I would not have paid $80 retail on it. Woo hoo for finding a great bargain!

I feel like I've spend to much money in the last few weeks. I have, but I've also saved a lot too. I just need to finalize what I'm going to do with those savings. I need to find the right account to stick the money in. I want to earn some interest on the funds, and of course if I keep letting it sit in my savings account from my bank, I'm only going to get a couple of cents here and there. So, I need to make a decision soon. I have a Roth IRA, and I want to set up a Money Market account that is liquid, but will still earn interest. Alas, it's all about making the leap of faith.

I've been reading some financial self-help books -- David Bach to be specific. I picked up "Smart Women Finish Rich" on recommendation of a coworker. It was a great motivational tool. And one of the quickest reads. Of course, I still need to act on what I read. I'm so easily distracted sometimes. I also am reading "Start Late, Finish Rich" which I didn't like as much, but probably because it's aimed more at the older population who are, as the title suggests, starting late.

I'm ready to fully plan for the future.

The missing receipt

Of all the times to lose a receipt, it had to be this one. I bought a new, fantastic purse that I fell in love with, and what happens? The zipper strap breaks. And of course, this had to be the one time that I lost the receipt. Great. Just great. I think that I was really excited about my new purchase. It was the first time that I splurged on a purse. I love handbags, but by no means will I spend too many pretty pennies on them. However, this time, I did some research and found this nice, black leather bag. I bought it this past Saturday.

Yesterday I brought it to work. I was so proud of my purse that I totally wanted to show it off. It's no Dooney & Bourke or Louis Vuitton, but it suits me. I was sitting at my desk, and I was opening the top zipper using the strap. And, pop! The strap was in my hand the zipper no longer had an ornament. My face and demeanor flopped. I was so upset.

I immediately looked at the manufacturer's website hoping to find some good news. There was! There's a one year workmanship guarantee. This was definitely a workmanship issue. All I had to do was send in the purse, the reason, and the receipt, plus $8.50 for S&H, and it would be looked at. Then I got worried. The style of the purse was no longer on the website, leading me to believe that it had been phased out. Next option: the store I bought it from – Macy's.

I was so distraught over the purse that I left earlier than usual. As soon as I got home I scoured the house for the receipt, thinking that I knew where it was. I found the tag, but no receipt. My last recollection of the receipt was that it was on the kitchen table inside the Macy's plastic bag. The plastic bag was nowhere to be found. I continued to freak out. Ironically, I found every other receipt that I could have hoped to have found, but no Macy's receipt for a $118.00 purse.

I got online and searched for the phone number of the Macy's that I went to. I dialed immediately, punching through the different number-activated menus, and finally getting to a human. The woman who answered was very cordial, and you could tell that she was smiling on the other side of the phone. She reassured me that even if I didn't have the receipt that a return or an exchange could be made if I had the card which I used for purchase. I do! I'm glad that Macy's sticks one of those little tracer stickers on the price tags when they sell merchandise. I'm guessing it is a locator number for such occurrences. My spirits were slightly lifted.

Today, my quest is to go back to that Macy's and find out what I can do. I will update when I find out.

It MUST be June.

This entire weekend, I felt like I was being bum-rushed with wedding stuff on TV. It started off on Saturday morning. I was cleaning up some clutter in my room and I turned on the TV. It so happened that the last channel that I was on was WE. The show was Platinum Weddings where couples who spend ridiculous amounts of money and contribute to the $25 billion-dollar industry. There was a bride who insisted on having celebrity everything, and made sure that whoever she hired had a list of clientele to back up their reputation. There was another couple who was having their wedding in Malibu, dropping $30K on the tent alone that would house the event. I don't think that included the site fee. The bride was fitted in a custom gown that the bridal consultant priced between $18-20K. You could get an education on that kind of money. And I believe their grand total must have been well over $200K; you can buy property on that money! Maybe not in California, but you could easily buy 4 cars on that amount. It just seems like such a waste of money to spend that much on one day. Then what do you have to say for yourself if you break up?

On top of the Platinum Weddings morning, nearly every decorating show that I watched on HGTV had a wedding special. I watched two shows where they threw a small wedding in the homes of the bride and groom for $5,000. A rarity in today's wedding market. I also watched an episode where they mimicked a wedding that would have cost $100,000+ with all the bells and whistles, for $8,600. Much better. Finally, I DVR-ed What Not to Wear's Stacy & Clinton's Wedding Spectacular, where they chose 3 bride-to-be's and gave them each a consultation and $5,000 for spending on their dream wedding dress. From perusing the wedding world here and there, it's easy to spend $5,000 even with a simple dress. These shows were more along my speed. I'd rather spend something under $10K for a simple, elegant ceremony and fun party celebration. I think labeling something with the word "wedding" in front of it, automatically makes it more expensive. Figures as much.

Then, of course, I switched to the notorious Bridezillas on WE. There was a marathon. I can only stand to watch that show for about 20 minute increments, but it's still entertaining. Some of those future wives are real pieces of work. I wonder what they think of themselves once the wedding is good and done with, and they can replay themselves on their "best" behavior, and so can all of America. They probably don't notice anything if they act like that on a regular basis. ¡Que horror!

It must be June, the most sought after month to tie the knot. Note to self, no June nuptials.

Mmmm. Cake.

I was watching Throwdown with Bobby Flay, where his challenge was wedding cakes. He was up against an up and coming Wedding Cake artist from New York City, who also graduated from the same culinary school. Bobby was getting nervous as he's not exactly a pastry chef.

I was observing Bobby struggling with making a wedding cake, especially since he'd never built one. But I felt like I came to a conclusion about my some-day wedding cake -- I want buttercream icing. Forget fondant. While it may be pretty and totally moldable, no one really eats it. I want a cake that when people see it, they want to dive into it. Head first. Mmmmm good. I'm not that into fancy and elaborate, but I am really big on cake. Simple, basic, but rich in taste.

I'm also not the type to spend an exorbitant amount of money on a cake - wedding, birthday, etc. I feel like I'd have a hard time eating something that costs upwards of $3,000 or similar. Then again, it's not like the cake will last forever. Thus, I'd rather go simple on the cake - there are still so many things you can do with the cake that it will still look elegant, but not cost too much. Plus, I'd much rather enjoy a less expensive, quality cake, than a fancy, elaborate, "I'm scared to touch it" kind of pastry creation.

I really like the style and simplicity of these two cakes in the photos, courtesy of the Knot. Funnily enough, they are both from weddings in San Diego, where I went to school Of course, I am no where near planning my wedding, need an engagement for that to happen. I haven't even attended too many weddings. I do have a good handful of coworkers who are getting hitched or have already tied the knot. I don't feel pressure to do so myself, although, I have started to think about what I would want my wedding to be like. According to a report on CNN, today's average wedding costs $27,000! This is around my salary after taxes and other deductions. I definitely do not see myself spending that kind of money on my wedding. Granted, I may receive some assistance from my parents and his parents, but nothing of that magnitude. After talking to one of my coworkers whose nuptials are in about 3 weeks, she told me that she is spending about $25,000. However, her in-laws are footing most of the bill. But she's not even having a cake! I consider that blashphemy! Just kidding. She doesn't care much for cake. I, on the other hand, will definitely have cake!

Purse finds

So, I'm not that into designer purses. I'm "Cost Effective" or dare I say "Cheap" when it comes to money. I couldn't possibly purchase a $400 COACH bag or $750 Louis Vuitton in good measure. I'd probably pass out first. I've seen a good friend pick out a Louis Vuitton purse in Rome and smack down all that money. I felt incredibly underdressed standing in the boutique. However, I am looking for a new purse. And thankfully there are some less expensive options I was thinking about something like this:



















or this:














I'm pretty low maintenance when it comes to these things. My indicator for needing a new purse stems from the fact that mine is starting to wear a hole in the corner (it's only made of corduroy), and looking kind of shabby. Even at that, these are Fossil purses made of leather, and at about $120 each, they are still a little pricey for my blood. But I need one. I'm on the hunt. I figure that if I get a leather purse, that's NOT couture, it will still last longer and look great for years beyond a corduroy one could.

Vibrant

I want to leave footprint on this earth that is vibrant, like this flower.

I took this photo almost four years ago, and I recently did a major review of past photos. Plus with a new Pro Account on flickr, I went crazy with uploading!

This flower - I don't even know what kind it is - my thumbs are more brown than green - is so full of color and life. I want to be remembered for being vibrant - for all it's definitions. I don't want to be remembered for what I looked like, how much money I did or didn't have, or what possessions I may have owned. Rather, I want to know that I made a difference in someone's life, made a difference, even a small one in this world. I want to live, full of life, to the fullest, for the best.

In today's world it's so difficult to look past appearances in an image-focused and sex-obsessed society, where you get by on how much cash you can drop and who you know or are connected to. Just take a look at Paris Hilton, convicted of a DUI and sentenced to 45 days in jail. Since she's a celebutante and has endless money, they are cutting her sentence down. Anyone else, I could hardly see that happening. Everywhere you look on tv, there's something related to sex, drugs, and booze, influencing the young minds of America to think it's okay to do what Lindsay Lohan does or to idolize the rich and so-called fabulous. I don't want to be them ever. I don't have a distaste for celebrities, some of them out there do actual good. However, there is a growing trend of folks with too much money for their own good, and on the other side of the spectrum there are people who are struggling to get by from day to day. What is the world coming to? Hopefully not fading into grey.

Moving

Tribute to Philippine Revolutionaries
Originally uploaded by heyitscatie.

I do believe I watched the most moving display of cultural dance this past weekend. I thought it was going to be a sleepy dance troupe, displaying the usual run of the mill tinikling. Not this group. The Leyte Dance Theatre put on a fantastic performance of talent and skill. I was thoroughly impressed. So much so, that I shot about 400 stills while trying to figure out the exposure settings on my new DSLR.

A little about me.

I keep trying to join the blogosphere, only to find myself neglecting the blog or forgetting to post something. Perhaps it's just plain laziness. Blogger makes it so easy to post, you don't even have to log in to leave a note. You can email. So what's my problem? A lack of things to write? Hardly. No time? Don't think so. Maybe it's all the time I spend trying to improve the look and feel of it. And trying to hard to sound well-written or witty. I guess I'll go with the flow.