2011 has been quite an interesting year for me. This biggest thing I learned this year was around friends/friendships. I've learn this year to let go of some friendships completely and that some friendships change.
Letting go of a friendship is something that is very hard for me to do, and I've only done it a handful of times (if even that) in my life. However, as the beginning of this year, I saw two friends that thought the worst of me, judged me for the things I have and the people I choose to spend time with, and were not happy for my accomplishments. They also chose to lash out at me at a public event that I attended alone. After many tears and thoughts, I decided to let them go. After all, who needs someone in your life that isn't truly happy for you. There are definitely times that it hurts and I miss the friendship we have, but we've all grown up and chosen separate paths.
Adapting to change in a friendship is also difficult. You spend so much time cultivating a relationship and as life changes, I had to realize that friendships have to change too. There are a couple of friendships that I have that are "surface" friendships. These are people who don't take an interest in my life, proactively ask questions about me, and spend most of their time simply talking about themselves. Unfortunately, life is too short and time is too limited to invest much in these relationships. These are ones now that I have to stop investing as much time in.
The other change to adapt to is around old friendships - the ones you have as you grow up, go to college, etc. As my life and friend's lives move on and enter different stages, the friendships that worked in the past no longer work in our present life and as new people enter my life. I have to stop feeling guilty that maybe I've changed or new friends are taking over roles in my life reserved for past friends.
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Looking Back at Reverb 10
So I was inspired by N's recent post and decided to reply my own.
Desired descriptive word for 2011: Experiences. I've definitely had a ton of experiences (both good and bad - another post to come on that later) this year and I've grown because of them.
11 things my life doesn't need in 2011: The 11 things I wanted to get rid of in 2011 were: "Feeling guilty, not recycling, feeling self conscious, fear of confrontations, caring too much about other's opinions, not taking vitamins, not taking off my makeup, wearing heals, worrying about things outside my control, not calling people back in a timely fashion and addiction to online shopping." Well, I'm happy to say that I've done some of these things...in fact, I bought my first pair of flats this year and have REALLY enjoyed wearing them. I have also started to take my vitamins due to a couple of health conditions. I still have some work to do, like feeling self conscious at the gym and taking off my makeup.
Thing to try in 2011: Last year, I wrote that I wanted to eat at the dining room table. Well, we did buy a new dining room table this year and we have yet to use it nightly. OOOPS!
Places to travel in 2011: Last year, I wrote: "Next year, I'm hoping for ULC reunion in Sonoma, trips to ATL and Raleigh (which are constant), a trip to Spain with G$, and a R/N adventure :)." Well, we did have a mini ULC reunion (minus Miss J) in Sonoma for my birthday, and G$ and I did get a great trip to Portugal/Spain in 2011 - a trip I'll remember forever. I didn't go to ATL as much as I expected to - there's just not as much there for me anymore. I did do one last trip to Raleigh before Miss N moved, and a couple of trips to Vtown, a couple of trips to Palm Springs. And then there was a good amount of work travel this year - all in all, a successful travel year.
Thing to achieve in 2011: Last year I wrote that I wanted to complete my 30 before 30 list in 2011. Well, I may not have completed "those exact 30 things," but I have had many new experiences that took me out of my comfort zone. I hope to continue to push myself in 2012.
Desired descriptive word for 2011: Experiences. I've definitely had a ton of experiences (both good and bad - another post to come on that later) this year and I've grown because of them.
11 things my life doesn't need in 2011: The 11 things I wanted to get rid of in 2011 were: "Feeling guilty, not recycling, feeling self conscious, fear of confrontations, caring too much about other's opinions, not taking vitamins, not taking off my makeup, wearing heals, worrying about things outside my control, not calling people back in a timely fashion and addiction to online shopping." Well, I'm happy to say that I've done some of these things...in fact, I bought my first pair of flats this year and have REALLY enjoyed wearing them. I have also started to take my vitamins due to a couple of health conditions. I still have some work to do, like feeling self conscious at the gym and taking off my makeup.
Thing to try in 2011: Last year, I wrote that I wanted to eat at the dining room table. Well, we did buy a new dining room table this year and we have yet to use it nightly. OOOPS!
Places to travel in 2011: Last year, I wrote: "Next year, I'm hoping for ULC reunion in Sonoma, trips to ATL and Raleigh (which are constant), a trip to Spain with G$, and a R/N adventure :)." Well, we did have a mini ULC reunion (minus Miss J) in Sonoma for my birthday, and G$ and I did get a great trip to Portugal/Spain in 2011 - a trip I'll remember forever. I didn't go to ATL as much as I expected to - there's just not as much there for me anymore. I did do one last trip to Raleigh before Miss N moved, and a couple of trips to Vtown, a couple of trips to Palm Springs. And then there was a good amount of work travel this year - all in all, a successful travel year.
Thing to achieve in 2011: Last year I wrote that I wanted to complete my 30 before 30 list in 2011. Well, I may not have completed "those exact 30 things," but I have had many new experiences that took me out of my comfort zone. I hope to continue to push myself in 2012.
Friday, December 23, 2011
Looking Back at Reverb 10
Judging from the empty desks and quiet facebook world, I must be one of the only fools at work today. So to cure my boredom I'm reading old Reverb 10 posts to see what goals I had set for this year.
- Desired descriptive word for 2011: Answers. I ended last year searching for a change (personally, professionally, or geographically) and wasn't sure what would happen. I got one huge answer in the form of a job offer here in the Bay Area. The professional and geographical changes happened, and personal changes inevitably come along with those.
- 11 things my life doesn't need in 2011: long PJ pants (partial success, partial fail); procrastination (fail); dehydration (fail); avoidance of confrontation (success-ish); grazing (fail); a pushover personality (success-ish); disconnects (success); lack of go-to items (success); timidity (success?); lack of skin care (success); uncertainty (success-ish). Wow, not such a great record there.
- Lesson to apply to 2011: I have a voice. I wanted to apply this to my career by being more vocal and visible. Luckily, my job is forcing me to do this because I'm paving my own way through a newly-created role. Slowly but surely, I'm getting the word out!
- Thing to heal in 2011: fear of the unknown. I haven't always dealt well with the unknown this year, but I definitely faced the fear. "Starting over" has proven to be harder at age 31 than it was at age 24; however, it turns out that some of the unknowns aren't so scary after all. :)
- Thing to try in 2011: everything. By my standards, I've done a good job at taking every opportunity that's floated my way this year. Rarely have I said "no" to social interactions, and I've gone on many bad dates because I thought I should at least try to seize the opportunities!
- Places to travel in 2011: ATL, Sonoma, and somewhere exotic. Haha. Well, I was in ATL (and will be there briefly tomorrow), but I didn't have the "normal" trips as expected since I moved a wee bit farther away. I made it to Sonoma twice since it's right next door now. The most exotic place I went was Puerto Vallarta - does that count?
- Thing to achieve in 2011: regain a good body image. The holiday season is not the best time to review this one...although does eating every cookie that's come my way count as "taking advantage of every opportunity" (see above)? I must say, I have accepted the annoying body changes that came about with turning 30 and no longer freak out when I have to buy a more curvy cut in pants.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
N's Project 365: Week 36
December 11, 2011: Nada.
December 12, 2011: Parents in town = kitchen full of Indian spices.
December 13, 2011: Parents in town = new rug.
December 14, 2011: An attempt to capture a minor cut from sorting cans at the food bank.
December 15, 2011: An attempt to capture a license plate that said "I <3 Oreos."
December 16, 2011: So glad I read this package more closely before I bought it!
December 17, 2011: I'm embarrassed about how utterly bummed I was that the 'Bucks ran out of red cups.
Friday, December 16, 2011
Thursday, December 15, 2011
N's Project 365: Week 35
December 5, 2011: A mini $6 tree from Safeway is better than no tree!
December 6, 2011: Why yes, I did enjoy a delicious moment at Acqua Pazza.
December 7, 2011: Sparkly red toes in OPI's new "Meep Meep Meep." Gotta love Beaker.
December 8, 2011: Distracted by the arrival of the parentals.
December 9, 2011: I wonder how often people have actually done these things on the cable cars.
December 10, 2011: A too-dark shot of the moon over Domaine Carneros.
N's List of Things All Fabulous Women Need
I'm stealing yet another topic from R. :)
- A credit card with good rewards, as long as it's only used to the point where it can be paid off immediately.
- 2 songs that can always be relied on as mood-elevators.
- The perfect pajamas that are not only comfortable but also cute.
- One pair of shoes that jazzes up any outfit in a pinch.
- A tool kit. No need to know how to use every single tool in it though.
- A go-to hairstyle.
- A basic black handbag that holds all the essentials.
- Self-confidence.
Top 11 Things Fabulous Women Need
We all have things we love and cannot live without. I was inspired by another blogger who posted the top 15 things she thinks all women need. I thought it would be fun to do a list according to moi....after all my friends and I are pretty fabulous ;)
1. A go to dress for dinner/drinks. It doesn't have to be black (both of mine are) or of a specific style (both of mine are shift). But a dress you can throw on when you find out about last minute plans, or one that you can wear and know you look good in it. If you like red - wear red! Just be comfortable and confidence will exude.
2. A pair of shoes you love and don't make your feet hurt. Different shoes work for different people - just own it. As long as they don't make your feet hurt and you feel fantastic when you cut a rug or go to a business meeting.
3. Something nice that you've treated yourself with. We all like different things - so buy something that you will use and like. I recently bought a watch that makes me feel like a million bucks and reminds me why I work as hard as I do (and at times feel like I'm always at the airport).
4. A nice black handbag. I love colored handbags as the next person, but I am a firm believer that everyone should have at least 1 nice black handbag that transitions from work to cocktails. And if you get a nice leather one, be sure to treat it.
5. A skincare regiment that works for you. We have one face in this world, let's take care of it ok? Try to take your makeup off before bed (I'm bad about this), put some moisturizer on, take out that eye cream, and then make sure you have some sunscreen. After four years of being "good," G$ claims I look younger today than from when we first met.
6. A cell phone that works and a plan that allows you to not yell "Can't talk No minutes" (used to use this one all the time in college).
7. A savings account.
8. 2 friends you know you can count on to be there no matter what.
9. A go to recipe that you can enjoy by yourself or when you entertain. We all have that one thing we can make and know is perfect all the time.
10. A power suit.
11. Good foundation. We all have blemishes, color spots and all that jazz...so let's get a great foundation to cover it up and highlight our features. Just be sure to take it off and follow your skincare routine :)
1. A go to dress for dinner/drinks. It doesn't have to be black (both of mine are) or of a specific style (both of mine are shift). But a dress you can throw on when you find out about last minute plans, or one that you can wear and know you look good in it. If you like red - wear red! Just be comfortable and confidence will exude.
2. A pair of shoes you love and don't make your feet hurt. Different shoes work for different people - just own it. As long as they don't make your feet hurt and you feel fantastic when you cut a rug or go to a business meeting.
3. Something nice that you've treated yourself with. We all like different things - so buy something that you will use and like. I recently bought a watch that makes me feel like a million bucks and reminds me why I work as hard as I do (and at times feel like I'm always at the airport).
4. A nice black handbag. I love colored handbags as the next person, but I am a firm believer that everyone should have at least 1 nice black handbag that transitions from work to cocktails. And if you get a nice leather one, be sure to treat it.
5. A skincare regiment that works for you. We have one face in this world, let's take care of it ok? Try to take your makeup off before bed (I'm bad about this), put some moisturizer on, take out that eye cream, and then make sure you have some sunscreen. After four years of being "good," G$ claims I look younger today than from when we first met.
6. A cell phone that works and a plan that allows you to not yell "Can't talk No minutes" (used to use this one all the time in college).
7. A savings account.
8. 2 friends you know you can count on to be there no matter what.
9. A go to recipe that you can enjoy by yourself or when you entertain. We all have that one thing we can make and know is perfect all the time.
10. A power suit.
11. Good foundation. We all have blemishes, color spots and all that jazz...so let's get a great foundation to cover it up and highlight our features. Just be sure to take it off and follow your skincare routine :)
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Best 5 Things Eaten All Year
Now that we're wrapping up the year, I thought it was only appropriate to summarize the best 5 things I've eaten all year. This will be quite hard since everyday on vacation I claimed to eat something better than the day before.
1. Cod ala Brassa: Portuguese for hasbrowns, fish and eggs, yes please! This was a delicious lunch, and for as heavy as it sounds, it was light as a feather.
2. Jamon Iberico at the Hotel Arts: This tasted like pure butter and it was worth every calorie. This jamon was packed with flavor, one that still makes my mouth water when I think about it.
3. Bone Marrow and Popovers (tie) at Wayfare Tavern: I know the popovers may be a random thing to choose, especially when their menu is packed with all sorts of yumminess! But the popovers were extremely delicious and light (sadness that their not GF and I can no longer eat them). The bone marrow was AMAZING. I've typically only had bone marrow the way my mom makes it, but this was fantastic. The presentation was quite nice as well.
4. Vanilla and Chocolate Creme Brulee at One Market: Who doesn't like creme brulee? This was perfectly smooth, with hints of vanilla and chocolate, not overly rich, and had that hard sugar shell. Also doesn't hurt that I was drinking a bottle of the 1981 Caymus Cab Sauv with it.
5. Kanpashi Sashimi with Special Soy at Kanpai Sushi in LA: I met up with an old friend from college and his girlfriend and they introduced me to Kanpai. This may be the best sushi I've ever had, even better than the sushi I tried in Japan. The yellowtail was perfectly sliced, with seared jalapenos and a truffle oil. YUM! A must go to if you're in LA.
1. Cod ala Brassa: Portuguese for hasbrowns, fish and eggs, yes please! This was a delicious lunch, and for as heavy as it sounds, it was light as a feather.
2. Jamon Iberico at the Hotel Arts: This tasted like pure butter and it was worth every calorie. This jamon was packed with flavor, one that still makes my mouth water when I think about it.
3. Bone Marrow and Popovers (tie) at Wayfare Tavern: I know the popovers may be a random thing to choose, especially when their menu is packed with all sorts of yumminess! But the popovers were extremely delicious and light (sadness that their not GF and I can no longer eat them). The bone marrow was AMAZING. I've typically only had bone marrow the way my mom makes it, but this was fantastic. The presentation was quite nice as well.
4. Vanilla and Chocolate Creme Brulee at One Market: Who doesn't like creme brulee? This was perfectly smooth, with hints of vanilla and chocolate, not overly rich, and had that hard sugar shell. Also doesn't hurt that I was drinking a bottle of the 1981 Caymus Cab Sauv with it.
5. Kanpashi Sashimi with Special Soy at Kanpai Sushi in LA: I met up with an old friend from college and his girlfriend and they introduced me to Kanpai. This may be the best sushi I've ever had, even better than the sushi I tried in Japan. The yellowtail was perfectly sliced, with seared jalapenos and a truffle oil. YUM! A must go to if you're in LA.
Monday, December 12, 2011
Gluten Free and Lactose Free
For the past few months, I've had some discomfort in my stomach when I ate certain foods. Last week, I finally went to the doctor and in an attempt to pinpoint the cause, she requested that I go lactose free, gluten free, white wine free, and raw veggies free. I honestly hope that eliminating these foods from my diet allow me to feel better and I can continue on. If the elimination doesn't make me feel better, then we have another road to go down.
So, I went to Whole Foods today and bought Udi's brand cookies and bread. I just had a cookie while the rest of my office had a cupcake in a birthday celebration. This cookie was delish! I didn't even miss "normal cookies."
I will be using this space to vent/rant and share recipe successes. Stay tuned.
So, I went to Whole Foods today and bought Udi's brand cookies and bread. I just had a cookie while the rest of my office had a cupcake in a birthday celebration. This cookie was delish! I didn't even miss "normal cookies."
I will be using this space to vent/rant and share recipe successes. Stay tuned.
Friday, December 9, 2011
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
My New Favorite Pencil Skirt
My job requires a fair amount of dress up (which I love). I rarely wear jeans outside of a Friday, and about 3-5 times a month I'm in a suit. The thing I've been searching for is that "perfect pencil skirt." I started to even doubt that it existed, and that all pencil skirts were to make curvy girls with short torsos like me feel like a moo cow.
I tried Victoria Secret's, who's skirt was up by my armpits. I have one I got at Nordstrom Rack, which is "fine" but after 2 years is starting to look old. I can't fit into my old one from Express since Mother Nature gifted me hips (enough about that rant). I even had one from Old Navy that was what I considered perfect, that is no longer due to Mother Nature.
So on Black Friday, I was searching for G$'s jacket he liked at Banana Republic, and I came across a "Stretch Pencil Skirt," and on a whim (and because it was an additional 40% off) I ordered it.
I'm wearing it now right before I jet off to a client meeting, and I can't tell you how much I love it and that it doesn't wrinkle!
So - once again, you are welcome :) My only wish is that it comes in multiple different colors.
I tried Victoria Secret's, who's skirt was up by my armpits. I have one I got at Nordstrom Rack, which is "fine" but after 2 years is starting to look old. I can't fit into my old one from Express since Mother Nature gifted me hips (enough about that rant). I even had one from Old Navy that was what I considered perfect, that is no longer due to Mother Nature.
So on Black Friday, I was searching for G$'s jacket he liked at Banana Republic, and I came across a "Stretch Pencil Skirt," and on a whim (and because it was an additional 40% off) I ordered it.
I'm wearing it now right before I jet off to a client meeting, and I can't tell you how much I love it and that it doesn't wrinkle!
So - once again, you are welcome :) My only wish is that it comes in multiple different colors.
Monday, December 5, 2011
N's Project 365: Week 34
November 27, 2011: Years of well-organized pages of engineering derivations, calculations, lecture notes, and failed exams stacked up for the recycle bin.
November 28, 2011: Time for $5 Target holiday tees!
November 29, 2011: A color-coded lab notebook is a happy lab notebook.
November 30, 2011: Trashing pumpkins.
December 1, 2011: Ooh, sparkles.
December 2, 2011: Zilch.
December 3, 2011: I've whined a bit this year about how fewer leaves seem to change color here in the Bay Area. When I see them though, I get excited as though I've found Waldo.
R's New Segment: How I Feel about M-A-C
I have a great idea for a new segment of posts from moi. As you know, I am a product/makeup junkie. If its sparkly, I must have it. Typically when I buy a product from a "new brand," I will generally experiment with a few of their things. Below, I will start with the things I love versus the ones I didn't love from M-A-C.
Products I didn't love:
1. M-A-C Liquid Last Eyeliner: I loved that this product came in different colors and was fairly inexpensive. However, It was clunky, the brush was hard to work with and it was fairly permanent. That stuff was IMPOSSIBLE to get off. Eye make up remover, vaseline, you name it - I tried it. Dislike.
2. M-A-C- Pro Longwear Lip Glass: Back in the day, this had two sides to it - the lip glass side and then the gloss side. Regardless, I didn't like it. I had a hard time trying to figure out which color was right on my lips and it always flaked off by the end of the day.
Products I do love:
1. M-A-C Studio Fix Powder Foundation: N has blogged about this before, so I won't just repeat waht she said. But I do love the ease of application, and think this is a perfect alternative to my liquid makeup in the summer or on a day of errands.
2. Fix +: I love this stuff. I think its a must have when travelling (especially those long flights) and on a hot day. Just a couple of squirts and your face feels cool and refreshed. I also think it makes my makeup look fresh.
3. Glitter and Ice Paint Pot: I have this in For Effect and I love it! I recently got this for my birthday when I had my makeup done, and I think this is just so fantastic. Its my first creamy eyeshadow and it stays on forever without those nasty creases.
4. Lashes: Enough said.
What are your favorite and least favorite M-A-C products?
Products I didn't love:
1. M-A-C Liquid Last Eyeliner: I loved that this product came in different colors and was fairly inexpensive. However, It was clunky, the brush was hard to work with and it was fairly permanent. That stuff was IMPOSSIBLE to get off. Eye make up remover, vaseline, you name it - I tried it. Dislike.
2. M-A-C- Pro Longwear Lip Glass: Back in the day, this had two sides to it - the lip glass side and then the gloss side. Regardless, I didn't like it. I had a hard time trying to figure out which color was right on my lips and it always flaked off by the end of the day.
Products I do love:
1. M-A-C Studio Fix Powder Foundation: N has blogged about this before, so I won't just repeat waht she said. But I do love the ease of application, and think this is a perfect alternative to my liquid makeup in the summer or on a day of errands.
2. Fix +: I love this stuff. I think its a must have when travelling (especially those long flights) and on a hot day. Just a couple of squirts and your face feels cool and refreshed. I also think it makes my makeup look fresh.
3. Glitter and Ice Paint Pot: I have this in For Effect and I love it! I recently got this for my birthday when I had my makeup done, and I think this is just so fantastic. Its my first creamy eyeshadow and it stays on forever without those nasty creases.
4. Lashes: Enough said.
What are your favorite and least favorite M-A-C products?
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Currently Snacking On...
Lately, my craving for salt is out of control. It's all I want..some good ole fashioned NaCl :) I was at the grocery store and came across these Quaker Quakes snack, and am obsessed. A great chip alternative.
Friday, December 2, 2011
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Inspired By Another Blogger...
N and I went to high school with the blogger who posts My Sundry Musings, and I was inspired by her post yesterday Can We Have It All. This post reminds me of a Sex and the City episode, which I looked for on the internet but could not find.
I think this is an interesting thought for women in our generation that balance a personal life, a professional, a love life, etc. I totally agree with what her blog article says. That having it all is a matter of prioritizing what's important in your life and making sure those items are being accomplished.
I read other blogs from stay-at-home moms, and for them their priorities are taking care of their family and having a fresh, nutritious meal on the table. For me, that sometimes is the most challenging task, especially when you get home around 8/8:30 at night.
For me, my struggle is knowing what my priorities are from day to day. Some days I wake up, and my top priorities are being successful at work, getting a good workout in, and having an hour to spend with my husband. When those things get done, I don't focus on the dirty laundry being piled up, the fact that my house looks like a tornado went thru it, or that I didn't wash my hair. However, I still focus on the fact that I didn't call my parents that day, I may not have made the dinner that G$ and I ate, and my nails are chipped.
Then I start to wonder, what does "all" really mean, and is it possible to have it "all"? And once you have it "all" would life get boring for me? And should "all" be monitored on a daily/weekly/monthly basis?
The main priorities in my "all" bucket are: love, work, friends, family, home and myself, not necessarily in that order. These break out in:
Love: I want to make sure that the connection I have with G$ continues to grow and not fizzle out. This may seem like an easy one since you can perceive that we spend evenings together, but this may be the hardest. After a long day at work and the gym, all G$ and I want to do is veg out and not really speak. And when our social lives are in full swing, date nights go by the wayside. For me, this is the most important. In ten years, I still want to be that couple that loves to be together and is truly each other's best friend.
Work: Its important for me to enjoy work. After all, I spend 45+ hours a week in this place and many more hours thinking about it. I enjoy a workplace that challenges me, pushes me out of my comfort zone and forces me to think outside of the box. I enjoy travelling and being on-site with my clients, so having a position that allows me to build relationships in person is key. And I like the people that I work with. I definitely feel like my current job allows me to do this. So this is a "check."
Friends: This one is straightforward to most, but the biggest lesson I learned this year was to let the non-important friends go. I could sit here and wallow in my sadness about friendships that no longer exist. However, I've decided to lean out my friends. This year, I had a "friend" (one who was in our wedding) say some pretty mean things to me in regards to how I live my life. The part that hurt the most is that this person seemed to not be happy for G$ and my successes. I also decided to stop making plans with those friends who consistently bail and aren't around for the good and bad times. So this year, at my 30th birthday, I had the 10 people around me that are good friends to me. Those people make my life richer and more enjoyable. I wish I had more time to see my friends, but I do feel like I have a handle on this one.
Family: This one is a bit hard. I wish I was closer (or had more time) to where I could see my parents more. It's hard when they're 4.5 hours away my flight and then an additional 3 hours by car. Sometimes I feel like I'm being unfair to them, since G$'s parents are so close by and therefore we see them more. I do try to check in daily and make time when I can, however never feel like I'm doing enough.
Home: This one is the one I always feel like I'm failing at. My house consistently looks like a tornado went thru it. Our new dining room table just houses our laptops (from when we work from home) and other random items. Our upstairs currently had 3 open suitcases (why unpack I ask?), 2 laundry baskets of clean clothes, a full hamper of dirty clothes and a bag of dry cleaning. Phew. This morning there were also 2 gym bags lying around. Besides looking like a disaster, I feel like I'm never home long enough to make dinners every night for a full week. This one is tough, I'm constantly trying but feel like I'm failing.
Me: This one is simple. All I need is a workout, 15 minutes in the sauna and a good shower. If a workout can't happen, then I want to be doing something that makes me happy - from organizing to happy hours with friends.
Do you have it all? If so, what is your secret?
I think this is an interesting thought for women in our generation that balance a personal life, a professional, a love life, etc. I totally agree with what her blog article says. That having it all is a matter of prioritizing what's important in your life and making sure those items are being accomplished.
I read other blogs from stay-at-home moms, and for them their priorities are taking care of their family and having a fresh, nutritious meal on the table. For me, that sometimes is the most challenging task, especially when you get home around 8/8:30 at night.
For me, my struggle is knowing what my priorities are from day to day. Some days I wake up, and my top priorities are being successful at work, getting a good workout in, and having an hour to spend with my husband. When those things get done, I don't focus on the dirty laundry being piled up, the fact that my house looks like a tornado went thru it, or that I didn't wash my hair. However, I still focus on the fact that I didn't call my parents that day, I may not have made the dinner that G$ and I ate, and my nails are chipped.
Then I start to wonder, what does "all" really mean, and is it possible to have it "all"? And once you have it "all" would life get boring for me? And should "all" be monitored on a daily/weekly/monthly basis?
The main priorities in my "all" bucket are: love, work, friends, family, home and myself, not necessarily in that order. These break out in:
Love: I want to make sure that the connection I have with G$ continues to grow and not fizzle out. This may seem like an easy one since you can perceive that we spend evenings together, but this may be the hardest. After a long day at work and the gym, all G$ and I want to do is veg out and not really speak. And when our social lives are in full swing, date nights go by the wayside. For me, this is the most important. In ten years, I still want to be that couple that loves to be together and is truly each other's best friend.
Work: Its important for me to enjoy work. After all, I spend 45+ hours a week in this place and many more hours thinking about it. I enjoy a workplace that challenges me, pushes me out of my comfort zone and forces me to think outside of the box. I enjoy travelling and being on-site with my clients, so having a position that allows me to build relationships in person is key. And I like the people that I work with. I definitely feel like my current job allows me to do this. So this is a "check."
Friends: This one is straightforward to most, but the biggest lesson I learned this year was to let the non-important friends go. I could sit here and wallow in my sadness about friendships that no longer exist. However, I've decided to lean out my friends. This year, I had a "friend" (one who was in our wedding) say some pretty mean things to me in regards to how I live my life. The part that hurt the most is that this person seemed to not be happy for G$ and my successes. I also decided to stop making plans with those friends who consistently bail and aren't around for the good and bad times. So this year, at my 30th birthday, I had the 10 people around me that are good friends to me. Those people make my life richer and more enjoyable. I wish I had more time to see my friends, but I do feel like I have a handle on this one.
Family: This one is a bit hard. I wish I was closer (or had more time) to where I could see my parents more. It's hard when they're 4.5 hours away my flight and then an additional 3 hours by car. Sometimes I feel like I'm being unfair to them, since G$'s parents are so close by and therefore we see them more. I do try to check in daily and make time when I can, however never feel like I'm doing enough.
Home: This one is the one I always feel like I'm failing at. My house consistently looks like a tornado went thru it. Our new dining room table just houses our laptops (from when we work from home) and other random items. Our upstairs currently had 3 open suitcases (why unpack I ask?), 2 laundry baskets of clean clothes, a full hamper of dirty clothes and a bag of dry cleaning. Phew. This morning there were also 2 gym bags lying around. Besides looking like a disaster, I feel like I'm never home long enough to make dinners every night for a full week. This one is tough, I'm constantly trying but feel like I'm failing.
Me: This one is simple. All I need is a workout, 15 minutes in the sauna and a good shower. If a workout can't happen, then I want to be doing something that makes me happy - from organizing to happy hours with friends.
Do you have it all? If so, what is your secret?
Monday, November 28, 2011
Best Quotes from Best Holiday Movies
Love Actually
"I hate Uncle Jamie!" - Jamie's nieces
"Let's go get the shit kicked out of us by love." - Sam
"There was more than one lobster present at the birth of Jesus?" - Karen
"Just in cases." - Aurelia
Bad Santa
"Should I fix you some sandwiches?" - Thurman Murman
Elf
"You did it! Congratulations! World's best cup of coffee! Great job, everybody!" - Buddy
"Did you have to borrow a reindeer to get down here?" - Buddy (to the "little" man)
The Holiday
"You're supposed to be the leading lady in your own life, for God's sake!" - Iris
Miracle on 34th Street
"We invite you to ask yourself this one simple question: Do you believe in Santa Claus?" - C.F. Cole
Home Alone 2: Lost in New York
"I'd like a hotel room please, with an extra large bed, a TV, and one of those little refrigerators you have to open with a key." - Kevin
"Get down on your knees and tell me you love me!" - Gangster on TV
Sunday, November 27, 2011
N's Project 365: Week 33
November 21, 2011: Stumbled upon this when cleaning out old notes. Why I kept it since college and what it's about are both lost on me.
November 22-23, 2011: Blank.
November 24, 2011: Thanksgiving cake balls.
November 25, 2011: R's pies for Thanksgiving breakfast.
November 25, 2011: More food. Slow cooker lasagna for one = lots of leftovers.
November 26, 2011: I'm obviously losing interest in this project.
Monday, November 21, 2011
R's Thoughts on gLee
I used to really enjoy gLee last year. A funny show with good music, drama, and real life issues - like bullying, sex, and being unpopular.
But this season of gLee I find a bit too mean spirited. Also, I feel that the episode about sex did not send the right message. As a 30 year old woman, while I watched the episode, I heard these two themes:
1. If you want to keep the person you love, you need to have sex.
2. If you want to be good in the theater, you need to have sex.
3. Protection is not that important while you think about having sex.
Now, are these really the things we want the future of America to believe while they're watching their show?
Then as I caught up on last week's episode, I just saw more examples of kids being mean to each other and getting away with it.
Be careful gLee, I'm about to delete you off of my DVR.
But this season of gLee I find a bit too mean spirited. Also, I feel that the episode about sex did not send the right message. As a 30 year old woman, while I watched the episode, I heard these two themes:
1. If you want to keep the person you love, you need to have sex.
2. If you want to be good in the theater, you need to have sex.
3. Protection is not that important while you think about having sex.
Now, are these really the things we want the future of America to believe while they're watching their show?
Then as I caught up on last week's episode, I just saw more examples of kids being mean to each other and getting away with it.
Be careful gLee, I'm about to delete you off of my DVR.
Sunday, November 20, 2011
N's Project 365: Week 33
November 13, 2011: No birthday is complete without them.
November 14, 2011: Fun with colorblocking.
November 15, 2011: I always feel like the "Aw, Snap!" slightly alleviates the pain when a page won't load in Chrome.
November 16, 2011: Lots of reading to catch up on!
November 17, 2011: Oops.
November 18, 2011: A birthday gift that'll keep giving.
November 19, 2011: I heart twinkle lights.
Friday, November 18, 2011
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
N's Favorite Traditions
I liked this idea so I'm listing mine now. :) This year will be about establishing new traditions since some of my old ones aren't possible, but I'm excited about trying to combine them all in the future.
- Thanksgiving: This is my fave holiday because it revolves completely around relaxing and eating with family and friends. Normally, my family and our extended pseudo-family chooses a city and gets together for an Indian/American/vegetarian/non-vegetarian feast. Sometimes it ends up being 20 people from ages 2-65, and we spend the weekend shopping and playing games.
- Santa Bash: For the past few years, Ms. M and I have set aside a full day in December to cook a big brunch, drink champagne, play Scrabble, and watch Christmas movies by the fire. I think I can convince R and G$ to join me this year, with some minor modifications. :)
- Christmas: Throughout high school and college, R and Ree and I would go see a movie every year on Christmas day. We've tried to continue this tradition ever since, with whoever happens to be together that day.
R's Favorite Traditions
Growing up in an Indian family didn't always mean you have family traditions or get to start new ones. With Indian culture having so many traditions of its own, there's rarely time to start or implement a new one. So when G$ and I started our family, it meant the world to us (fine, me) to have our traditions. So, here I will share some with you.
1. Anniversary Dinner: We did steal this one from Gravy Train and Xtian. For our wedding anniversary (year after year), we always go to The Basin for dinner. We do love it there, especially their truffle fries. This restaurant is dark with an intimate ambiance, great service and fantastic food. YUM!
2. Anniversary Wine: Along with our anniversary, G$ and I decided to always drink a bottle of 2008 wine. I forgot where we picked this tradition up, but we were lucky to start at our first anniversary.
3. Friendsgiving. This is my favorite tradition that we're able to celebrate with our friends. 3 years ago, a group of us decided to start a Wednesday night friendsgiving done potluck style with different themes (so you don't overdose on turkey two days in a row) and lots of wine. The first year we hosted, we did a Chinese theme, made Spicy Green Beans and pork when we'd already had too much wine and broke each of our wine glasses doing our "Thankful" toasts. Last year, we had learned and prepared food beforehand and used old winery glasses in the event anyone was too happy :) This year, N will be joining us and we are doing a Mexican theme. This is also the first one I'm not hosting.
These are my top three favorite self started traditions, what are some of yours?
1. Anniversary Dinner: We did steal this one from Gravy Train and Xtian. For our wedding anniversary (year after year), we always go to The Basin for dinner. We do love it there, especially their truffle fries. This restaurant is dark with an intimate ambiance, great service and fantastic food. YUM!
2. Anniversary Wine: Along with our anniversary, G$ and I decided to always drink a bottle of 2008 wine. I forgot where we picked this tradition up, but we were lucky to start at our first anniversary.
3. Friendsgiving. This is my favorite tradition that we're able to celebrate with our friends. 3 years ago, a group of us decided to start a Wednesday night friendsgiving done potluck style with different themes (so you don't overdose on turkey two days in a row) and lots of wine. The first year we hosted, we did a Chinese theme, made Spicy Green Beans and pork when we'd already had too much wine and broke each of our wine glasses doing our "Thankful" toasts. Last year, we had learned and prepared food beforehand and used old winery glasses in the event anyone was too happy :) This year, N will be joining us and we are doing a Mexican theme. This is also the first one I'm not hosting.
These are my top three favorite self started traditions, what are some of yours?
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
N's Project 365: Week 32
November 6, 2011: Shiny stuffs at the MAC counter.
November 7, 2011: Ah, so nice to have a working dishwasher.
November 8, 2011: Time to break out the sparkly snowman travel mug!
November 9, 2011: It's really difficult to cut an apple with a plastic knife.
November 10, 2011: I guess it's official.
November 11, 2011: Mmm, candy from mom.
November 12, 2011: Sparkling tasting at Mumm with R and Gravy Train? Yes please.
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Happy Birthday Miss N!
I wanted to wish Miss N a very happy birthday!! You're the greatest friend a girl could ask for. Always around to give clothing advice, have champagne and share cupcakes with :)
Friday, November 11, 2011
Thursday, November 10, 2011
N's Project 365: Week 31
October 30, 2011: Sleeeeep.
October 31, 2011: Halloween drinks at The Barrel House.
November 1, 2011: My zebra ears from Halloween. Everyone thought that was a tuft of my actual hair.
November 2, 2011: Nopicture.
November 3, 2011: Red cup!
November 4, 2011: A closeup of my comfy sequined sweatshirt.
November 5, 2011: I'm already fat-tastic, thank you very much.
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