This is one crazy/hectic year. The last few weekends have been weddings / parties / bach parties - in sum, LOTS of drinking, LOTS of junk food (Gravy Train and I like the pop chips / french fries / onion rings / pizza after lots of vodka tonics).
So here are the top 5 things I'm happy about this weekend:
1. Friday night alone with G (possibly with wine, takeout, a movie)
2. Trying scotch on top of vanilla ice cream
3. Sleeping in MY bed ALL WEEKEND (Never knew I'd be so excited about this)
4. Going to a yoga class I've been itching to try
5. Not having chipped nails :)
Aaah - its the simple things in life :) Also - I may be getting the NOOK (SQUEAL!), so I'll keep you posted on those shopping adventures - because I'm sure its these random stories that excite you :)
xoxo
Have a fantastic weekend!
Friday, May 21, 2010
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
R's 30 Things Before 30
Here are my 30 things - I keep feeling like I forgot random ones...POOP. I will try to blog about each experience that I complete here.
1. Be able to do 5 pull ups without the assist at the gym
2. Go to a movie theatre alone
3. Give money to a homeless man without judgement
4. Learn to say no and not feel guilty
5. Go to Europe
6. Spend 24 hours without my cell phones
7. Go on a roadtrip with no real destination in mind
8. Cook a 3 course indian meal that would make Mom proud
9. Spend 24 hours in silence
10. Go camping (preferably on a beach)
11. In an excercise class, stand in the front
12. Actually paying attention in a cooking class
13. Plant an herb garden
14. Go on a sailboat
15. Kareoke alone
16. Volunteer at a soup kitchen at Thanksgiving
17. Do something amazing for my husband - something that he'll remember forever
18. Take my parents on a trip
19. Play one set of tennis (I must own a cool outfit)
20. Play a 18 hole golf course
21. Go in a hot air balloon
22. Plan a vacation by closing my eyes and pointing at a domestic location
23. Go to DisneyLand
24. Read one book a month and blog a review
25. Visit the hospital I was born in
26. Go white water rafting
27. Learn to ride a bike!
28. Win a radio station contest
29. Take a wine making class
30. Become a US citizen
Ok - DONE!
Backup: Sew a Dress
1. Be able to do 5 pull ups without the assist at the gym
2. Go to a movie theatre alone
3. Give money to a homeless man without judgement
4. Learn to say no and not feel guilty
5. Go to Europe
6. Spend 24 hours without my cell phones
7. Go on a roadtrip with no real destination in mind
8. Cook a 3 course indian meal that would make Mom proud
9. Spend 24 hours in silence
10. Go camping (preferably on a beach)
11. In an excercise class, stand in the front
12. Actually paying attention in a cooking class
13. Plant an herb garden
14. Go on a sailboat
15. Kareoke alone
16. Volunteer at a soup kitchen at Thanksgiving
17. Do something amazing for my husband - something that he'll remember forever
18. Take my parents on a trip
19. Play one set of tennis (I must own a cool outfit)
20. Play a 18 hole golf course
21. Go in a hot air balloon
22. Plan a vacation by closing my eyes and pointing at a domestic location
23. Go to DisneyLand
24. Read one book a month and blog a review
25. Visit the hospital I was born in
26. Go white water rafting
27. Learn to ride a bike!
28. Win a radio station contest
29. Take a wine making class
30. Become a US citizen
Ok - DONE!
Backup: Sew a Dress
Thursday, May 13, 2010
30 Before 30
As much as I try to ignore it, my 30th birthday will come to stomp on my already squished body exactly 6 months from today. So I present to you, in random order, my list of things I'd like to do before then.
Disclaimer: This is, by no means, a bucket list. I can't realistically take a massive road trip, cliff dive, or volunteer in a foreign country in the next 6 months. I've also left off items that are too dependent on other people or circumstances.
- Face my fear of "things I must do" lists (DONE)
- Make a complicated, 3 course meal from scratch
- Visit one of the places in NC that everyone raves about but I've never seen
- Give money to a homeless person
- Plant something - anything - and keep it alive
- Initiate a conversation with a stranger
- Learn to whistle
- Create a piece of artwork to hang in my house
- Buy a right hand ring
- Go 24 hours (while at home, not out of town) without turning on a TV
- Call 2 people I rarely speak to, just to say hello
- Take a singing lesson
- Go for a walk in the rain
- Buy a bikini (even though I can't commit to wearing it)
- Find out my blood type
- Buy a drink for a stranger
- Learn to hem my own pants
- Find my signature scent
- Order from a menu by closing my eyes and pointing to something
- Reteach myself one thing I learned in college (in class, not socially)
- Try a new recreational sport (leaving this vague - skiing, surfing, anything else - based on opportunity)
- Watch 5 documentaries and actually learn something from them
- Reread one of my favorite childhood books
- Watch a movie outdoors
- Buy something "significant" from an airport store that isn't food, drink, or reading material
- Master a complicated yoga pose
- Buy myself a lottery ticket
- Leave inspiring messages in 5 public places
- Go to a temple alone
- Get photographic proof of as many things on this list as possible
Backups:
- Smash a plate in Greece
- Go camping
- Sing a karaoke solo (no hiding behind a group) at a bar
- Go to a movie alone
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
It's LL!
(you're welcome, ladies)
I hope it's a picture book. In the meantime, let's take a gander at LL's main pointers for life:
- Dare to be great.
- Set your goals and stick to them.
- Cultivate your imagination.
- When you love what you do, it's not a job.
- Limitations are a figment of your imagination.
- Novel idea: be yourself.
- Face your fears.
These are not new, original concepts by any means, and I don't envision my life changing. However, he is totally doin' it and doin' it and doin' it well...
Monday, May 10, 2010
Wise Words from a Drunk Wedding Guest
While at wedding #2 of 2010, G and I were dancing during the reception (surprise, surprise). There was a Notorious BIG song playing, and like everyone else, we were rapping and dancing along.
We noticed this random wedding guest be amazed that G and I could rap in sync with each other. G and I brushed it off, as we are used to people being fascinated with us because we are AMAZING :)
At the end of the reception, he came up to us and said "You guys are so lucky to have each other. I hope to be in a relationship that has as much fun as you guys."
Funny, how a drunk wedding guest can make you appreciate something you have right in front of you.
Enough goobiness for now :)
On another note, this was a BEAUTIFUL wedding - probably one of prettiest I've seen!
We noticed this random wedding guest be amazed that G and I could rap in sync with each other. G and I brushed it off, as we are used to people being fascinated with us because we are AMAZING :)
At the end of the reception, he came up to us and said "You guys are so lucky to have each other. I hope to be in a relationship that has as much fun as you guys."
Funny, how a drunk wedding guest can make you appreciate something you have right in front of you.
Enough goobiness for now :)
On another note, this was a BEAUTIFUL wedding - probably one of prettiest I've seen!
Friday, May 7, 2010
5 Happy Things of the Day
1. Friends who are more excited about choosing an outfit for your impending date than you are
2. The excitement of breaking out the sandals and sundresses
3. Knowing that a spa day is waiting for you at the end of a long week
4. Friends who go out of their way to bring you fresh peonies from their garden
5. Jello Sugar-Free Dark Chocolate Mousse + fresh strawberries
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Outfit of the Day - May 6
Even tho my sister does not read this blog (I know, who doesn't read this amazing source of rambling?!), I want to give her a shout out and wish her a happy birthday!
Here's today's outfit, you'll see that I'm starting to leave my hair curly more often :)
Here's today's outfit, you'll see that I'm starting to leave my hair curly more often :)
Cardigan: Unknown Brand via Nordstrom Rack
Shell: Forever21
Pants: Banana Republic
Bangle: Gift from parents
Name Necklace: Gift from parents
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Things Marriage Treats You
The past few days I've been thinking about what being married really teaches you and your spouse. Here are the things G has learned about me (and my awesomeness):
1. G's common question: What's all that color on the white pillow case (or bathroom sink)?
Answer: That's make up kids! Yes, I think G quickly realized that my skin color isn't always so glowy and perfect. He learned that when I look like a cherub, its because there's a good investment on my face...one that will stain shirts, pillow cases, towels if I rub my face on them.
2. G's common question: How do you manage to have so much hair on your head, as well as the bathroom floor, sinks, etc.
Answer: I was so amused that G didn't know that women shed hair. Growing up with two other women in my household, and then 6 women in college I just assumed that this was normal. OOPS. Looks like someone forget to let the malefolk into this truth.
3. The following "truths" you told yourself and your spouse (pre marriage) are not open lies since the spouse is ALWAYS around: my eyebrows always look amazing, I smell awesome 100% of the time, I make no bodily noises, I'm normal, etc.
4. No matter how hot it is outside, I am ALWAYS cold - even with a hoodie, long pants and a blanket on my lap.
5. Last week, G went into Sephora with Gravy Train and me. Mind you, I had just gone to ULTA earlier that day. After a good 45 minutes in the store, I bought makeup to add to the collection. Two lessons here for G: never take me to a makeup store AND there is no such thing as too much makeup.
That's all for now folks. Keep tuned to what I've learned about marriage :)
1. G's common question: What's all that color on the white pillow case (or bathroom sink)?
Answer: That's make up kids! Yes, I think G quickly realized that my skin color isn't always so glowy and perfect. He learned that when I look like a cherub, its because there's a good investment on my face...one that will stain shirts, pillow cases, towels if I rub my face on them.
2. G's common question: How do you manage to have so much hair on your head, as well as the bathroom floor, sinks, etc.
Answer: I was so amused that G didn't know that women shed hair. Growing up with two other women in my household, and then 6 women in college I just assumed that this was normal. OOPS. Looks like someone forget to let the malefolk into this truth.
3. The following "truths" you told yourself and your spouse (pre marriage) are not open lies since the spouse is ALWAYS around: my eyebrows always look amazing, I smell awesome 100% of the time, I make no bodily noises, I'm normal, etc.
4. No matter how hot it is outside, I am ALWAYS cold - even with a hoodie, long pants and a blanket on my lap.
5. Last week, G went into Sephora with Gravy Train and me. Mind you, I had just gone to ULTA earlier that day. After a good 45 minutes in the store, I bought makeup to add to the collection. Two lessons here for G: never take me to a makeup store AND there is no such thing as too much makeup.
That's all for now folks. Keep tuned to what I've learned about marriage :)
Daily Outfit Post - May 5
Today was one of those days...you know, the one where you try on 6000 things and can't find ANYTHING to wear. I swear I have NO clothes (regardless of how full my closet MAY seem - its all an illusion).
I love this maroon sweater (the picture is dark), except for the kangaroo pouch..i think it makes the tummy area look lumpy. It just requires alot of fixing before I see people. Oh well, its cozy especially since I'm exhausted from not being 100% for the last few days.
I love this maroon sweater (the picture is dark), except for the kangaroo pouch..i think it makes the tummy area look lumpy. It just requires alot of fixing before I see people. Oh well, its cozy especially since I'm exhausted from not being 100% for the last few days.
Sweater: BCBG via Nordstrom Rack
Skinny Black Pants: Express
Bangles: Gift from MOM
Earrings: Gift from MIL
Shoes (not pictured): Michael Korrs (gift from N!)
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Outfit of the Day - May 1
SO what if this is out of order. I kind of loved the way my hair looked. :)
Blazer: Gap
Shell: Banana Republic
Jeans: Citizens of Humanity via Nordstroms
Bangle: J. Crew
Necklace: Gift
Earrings: Mom's from the 80s (you can't see them but they are AWESOME)
Daily Outfit of the Day - May 4
Be warned - I look like a sausage today. I love this dress - the color, the belt....the fact it looks like a casing for sausage, not so much.
Dress: Donna Morgan via Nordstrom Rack
Black Ring: Bellissima via Gilt Group
Bracelet: Wedding Gift
Earrings: Gift from MIL
Monday, May 3, 2010
Outfit of the Day - May 3
How it manages to be -30ºF here in my office while its near 80ºF outside is beyond me. However, I dressed for the nice day outside :)
Shirt: Martin + Osa
Belt: Anne Klein via TJ Maxx
Pants: Banana Republic
Bangles: World Market
Pearls & Earrings: Gift from Mom
May Day Brunch and Interesting Conversation
So a friend of mine (let's call her Ms. La) hosted a May day brunch this past weekend. The brunch was women only, and each woman had to be ready to talk about a woman influence in her life.
On the day of the brunch (a BEAUTIFUL 80º here in the Bay Area), about 20 of us got together (women of all ages and races, including my and Ms. La's mothers-in-law). When we walked into the door, we were asked to write our name on a tag, along with one quality we wish we had.
After we gorged on some yummy food and mimosas (yours truly was a self-assigned bartender), we all went outside to soak up the rays and chat. There was a large banner we all had to write our "one favorite quality that you love about the woman inside you." I thought this was SUCH a cool idea, since as women, we spend so much time talking about what we don't like about ourselves, that it was nice to finally concentrate on what we did like.
Then we all sat around and everyone went thru introductions and the quality we wished we had. I felt so validated to hear how many women wanted "patience" (which was my quality), or balance, or calm, or to learn to apprecaite the present.
The last thing we did was write on an index card what was preventing us from being the woman we wanted to be.
I thought this was such a fun way to talk about ourselves and learn tips from others on how to optimize time for ourselves and how to learn our wanted qualities. Below, I included the things I listed:
Quality I wish I had : Patience. I spend so much time trying to never say no, that I end up being exhausted and overwhelmed, and therefore short tempered to the people who love me.
Quality I love about myself : The amount of energy that I bring into every situation I'm in.
What's Preventing me from being who I want to be : Time. I'm a people pleaser (I'm the oldest child, what do you expect) and spend so much time concentrating on keeping everyone happy that I tend to forget about myself.
I left the event with one thing I'm going to improve : Making time for myself. I will make time for myself every two weeks...whether that means going to the spa, getting a pedi, or just sitting at home while the Hubbers plays tennis.
I encourage you all to try this activity with your group of girlfriends..its amazing how much you learn about other people and how validated you can feel.
On the day of the brunch (a BEAUTIFUL 80º here in the Bay Area), about 20 of us got together (women of all ages and races, including my and Ms. La's mothers-in-law). When we walked into the door, we were asked to write our name on a tag, along with one quality we wish we had.
After we gorged on some yummy food and mimosas (yours truly was a self-assigned bartender), we all went outside to soak up the rays and chat. There was a large banner we all had to write our "one favorite quality that you love about the woman inside you." I thought this was SUCH a cool idea, since as women, we spend so much time talking about what we don't like about ourselves, that it was nice to finally concentrate on what we did like.
Then we all sat around and everyone went thru introductions and the quality we wished we had. I felt so validated to hear how many women wanted "patience" (which was my quality), or balance, or calm, or to learn to apprecaite the present.
The last thing we did was write on an index card what was preventing us from being the woman we wanted to be.
I thought this was such a fun way to talk about ourselves and learn tips from others on how to optimize time for ourselves and how to learn our wanted qualities. Below, I included the things I listed:
Quality I wish I had : Patience. I spend so much time trying to never say no, that I end up being exhausted and overwhelmed, and therefore short tempered to the people who love me.
Quality I love about myself : The amount of energy that I bring into every situation I'm in.
What's Preventing me from being who I want to be : Time. I'm a people pleaser (I'm the oldest child, what do you expect) and spend so much time concentrating on keeping everyone happy that I tend to forget about myself.
I left the event with one thing I'm going to improve : Making time for myself. I will make time for myself every two weeks...whether that means going to the spa, getting a pedi, or just sitting at home while the Hubbers plays tennis.
I encourage you all to try this activity with your group of girlfriends..its amazing how much you learn about other people and how validated you can feel.
Friending
I often comment that when you move to a new place alone, finding friends is almost harder than finding dates. Granted, some people are able to walk into any room and immediately have 5 new buddies, but I'm not one of those people. Acquaintances aren't the same as kindred spirits anyway. That's the tough part. Anyway, this article pretty much sums it up. Here are my thoughts.
- I don't like the title. We're not in elementary school anymore, needing a new BFF every year depending on who's in our class. I think a girl can definitely have a handful of best/closest friends, but a true BFF should hold a special spot. He or she likely invested a lot of time into learning your quirks and sharing memories and shouldn't have to share that title all of a sudden.
- When I first moved, I assumed that most people I met didn't have room for a new friend, either because they were in serious relationships or because they had been here awhile and I figured they had their own cliques. This was such a wrong ASSumption and kept me from being the one to make the first move. Yes, all my local friends have their own busy lives, but they're still just as willing to make plans with me as I am with them. It's also nice not to search for friends with the same relationship status (or lack thereof). The diversity of having single, dating, engaged, and married friends is awesome.
- As this article says, when the hell IS it ok to randomly ask someone if they want to meet up in an hour? On the same token, is it too weird to go ahead and ask a new friend to schedule something for 2 weeks from now? Do you need to be friends for a period of time before asking for a favor? And are you allowed to dump her if she turns out to be a bummer after a couple of "dates"?
- I think being a girl is great when it comes to this issue. We can totally bond over a simple compliment on someone's shoes or a shared love of bubbly, spas, celeb gossip, and food. I, for one, am hooked with any one of those things. I don't know how dudes do it.
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