Secret Obsession

Last night I was up later than I wanted to as I was catching up on a show. Pathetic I know. But still. I love this show.




It definitely has it flaws. But there is just something about Jullians smile and unwavering love for Brooke that just gives me alittle bit of hope. I know, pathetic as its a character, aka not a real person. But still. Hope is evoked from him. And that smile. I just melt.

My NYC Checklist

Ok. Really. I dont have an actual one. And I really dont know ALL there is in NYC. Maybe that is a sign that I really shouldnt be leaving quite yet. Oh well. Its happening.

So far:
Mama Mia
Mary Poppins
NYC Pops @
Carnegie Hall
Alvin Ailey Dance Theater
Meandered through the fancy stories. Bergdorf Goodman, Henri Bendel, etc
Carnegie Deli. **Ok, Only walked through.

Upcoming:
Jersey Boys
In the Heights**
Ellis Island
Guggenheim
Highline - Although, not really sure about this one in Winter.
Maybe another tour at the Tenement Museum
Walk through Greenwich Village and Chelsea Piers and any other 'hood that tickles my fancy.

I wish I was more of a foodie and had eateries to check off. But really, I could careless about that. Rather spend my money seeing another show!

Its a good thing that I have been to visit plenty of times prior to moving here and could check off the basics of basics to the Must-see NYC list. (Just googled it and was able to check off 12 of 15 things to do. Proud. Yes I am!)



Any other suggestions?

You Heard Right

In 3 short weeks, I will be trading in the big city lights of NYC for Charlotte, NC. Excited for a new adventure, and also excited to have some time to be a tourist in NYC. Who wants to join me?! - That was my facebook status. Cant believe it, but Im moving to Charlotte, NC. Lets start out 2011 with a new city, a new job, and a new adventure! A little nervous, but oh so excited.

Fabulous Weekend

Promise all those bags arent mind, but I might have bought some fabulous boots!





Spent the Saturday with my favorite Scottish-American.




Sadly do not have pictures from the Tree Lighting and Christmas Caroling on Park Ave. Really enjoyed this weekend.

All the Names

I have been an Aunt for more of my life than I wasnt an Aunt. My oldest nephew is currently 22 and spending the next few years in the country of his Mother, Ecuador. And so, I never have had any of my nieces or nephews call me Aunt, and actually feel kinda weird when they do. I can only think of really old ladies, and just dont know about it.


Therefore, I have only be called by my first name. And for the most part the older set of nieces/nephews all called me Weesa until they could get their L's. But this new little set has been alittle more creative in their speech impediments, like its something they have complete control over, and I have had a few more names. The oldest of James' did call me Weesa. Then the next called me Weeha. And now the third calls me Weeda. I love it. I never want any of them to out grow it. Ok, the older two already have. But still.

I Appologize for Venting Now!

Confession. I love Gossip Girl. And I cant stop thinking about a scene from a few weeks ago.

Dan: What would be romantic is him actually making a sacrifice for you
Serena: what are you saying
Dan: When we were together, I would've done anything for you. So if this billionaire really cares about you why can't he quit teaching, take you on a real date. You're worth more than a guest lecturer fee. Everyone knows that. I just wish you did.

I had an institute teacher back during my UVSC days (yes, Im dating myself!) that talked about the most important quality to find in a spouse is selflesness. And when both parties are exhibiting such a quality, then will the relationship truly be amazing.

I had an interesting week. One I dont care to repeat, but for the nature that is single life, will most likely be repeating again. Blah.

To all those married friends that read this, Im impressed that you found someone to spend your life with. Its a miracle to me, and one not to take lightly. Make that person your #1 priority. Because quite frankly, the alternative sucks. I know, the grass is always greener on the other side, but that is just my two cents.

Not sure if anyone remembers this post from a few years ago. I was chatting with a married cousin and a single cousin. The idea that finding a spouse should be handle alittle more in regards to the idea that we are about to embark upon a rowing 'competition' and that we need to find a partner that we can weather the 'storms' that will come our way with. And from the shore, it might look like an easy ride, but it isnt until we are in the middle of the lake/ocean/river/whatever that we experience the storms. We might think that certain aspects like looks or, say things that are found on a resume, are really important to us. But then the actual application of those resume sought things arent going to help in the middle of the storm. (Ok, maybe some might, like a PhD in Meteorology, or a Masters in Engineering!) Its more about the qualities a person has. And dont get me wrong, you need to be attracted to the person too!

Without publishing more of my life in such an open forum. I just want to say thank you to those that actually read this and let me vent. I appreciate it. Also, sorry for the random thrown together thoughts! This post might seem alittle disjointed.

Flash Dance

The last company I worked for was run by a husband and wife that could be characterized as, nicely put, crazy sometimes, er a lot of the time. A great example of such crazy business moves was when she wanted to send this youtube to all the customers, for absolutely no reason than she loved watching it and wanted to share it with all 5 million names on the database. (Really, you want to spam this to everyone?! Not a good use of company resources.)


But as I got into Grand Central Station last night at 6:00pm sharp, and the following song (yes, an old school favorite these days!) came on my iPod, there was a moment that I was wanting every one of the business men/women and commuters to throw up there hands, and dance in a choreographed fashion. But alas, I just kept walking, passed the hurried commuters, passed the business men waiting for their track number to roll onto the board, passed the hoards of tourist taking pictures of the beauty that is Grand Central, and took the stairs down to Number 6 train home.

Maybe one day, I can participate in something like this

I miss home

Home is not where you live, but where they know you
~ Christian Morganstern

I often have said that I was raised in Texas, but grew up in Boston. Something about those 5 years really helped me to stretch my wings and allowed me to fly.

And more so lately have I been having realizations that Im not in Boston anymore, and I cant walk by a particular South End park to see how fall is treating it. Or go with a friend to my favorite SE Asian restaurant and see if my favorite waiter is still there. Or walk home from work right through downtown. Or stop by my favorite movie theater to catch a movie after a bad day at work. Or drive along my favorite river on my favorite speedy road. Or see the faces that made Boston a true home for me. I miss my Boston.

I cant wait for the next place that will have these same feelings. Sadly, I dont think it will be my current zip code.

Music

One thing that Boston brought to my life is a love of music, more specifically live music, and of folk (singer/songwriter) music. Ive always loved music previously, and was even known for my cd collection in college. But through the help of roommates and other friends, I found a true love for the passion and talent that sing/songwriters have. There are a few artist in Boston that I would go completely, and still do, out of my way to watch.

There was a time that I was car-less while in Boston and I was borrowing a friends car while he was out of town. I left a mixed cd in the player. His roommate also tended to drive said car, and loved my mix. And this was the start of yearly mixes I would put out. Granted, it only happened for about 2 or 3 years, but I loved doing it. I love sharing my music with others, although I am a little hesitant as I might have a different taste than others.

While I was in Utah, it was brought to my attention that people were missing these little mixes in their life, and asked if I would do it again this year. And Im so grateful to friends that I can share my love of music with and who appreciate my mixes. Even though I have still been finding new stuff in the last few years, I have renewed my efforts and have really been enjoying finding the right songs for this year's mix.

If you have yet to let me know you would like one, leave/email me your address and Ill send you an old school cd! :)

This just might be finding its way to this years mix.

The Lost Girls

Amazing Book. If you are wanting inspiration for completing changing your life and traveling, then this is the book for you. Its about three girls in NYC who left their jobs, and traveled together for the year. Ahh inspiration.

Some of my favorite quotes from this book are lovely and I want to share.

I was grateful to her for her kindness and because she was a much needed reminder that the darkness cast by some gives others the chance to let their light shine.

We'd explained that though our time together hadn't exactly been fight-free, we made it work simply because the alternative was unacceptable. No single issue was so important that the three of us would be willing to throw away a friendship- or a chance to complete this journey together- for the sake of being right.

I finally understood the meaning of "nobody's perfect." and I mean that in the best way possible: appreciating their imperfections as parts of them made me realize that I could appreciate my own as parts of me.

Shout Out

Just a little shout out to my amazing brother. Today is his birthday. And Im so glad that I live close enough that I can hang out with him, and his cute family, and celebrate his day of birth.

I might be a very bias sister, but I have one freakin amazing brother. He has been building a house [insert Mansion] while keeping a 9-5 day job, all the while being a husband, dad, son, brother, and just all around good person. I love him dearly, and grateful to be able to call him brother, and friend.



*Sadly this 2 y/o picture is the most recent picture I have of us.

Oceanside in Oct

I had the opportunity to visit with some girl friends from Boston in lovely Oceanside, CA. We got to stay on the beach in a home that one of the girls know. It was a beautiful weekend and a relaxing time spent together.

Salt Lake in Sept

This past weekend I had the chance to go to Salt Lake for a dear cousins wedding. What a fabulous weekend it was. I got to spend some time with my ever amusing Walker cousins. I definitely cement my place as the Alpha Cousin! So happy I was able to be there and be apart of things.

So good to see so many dear faces and spend sometime catching up. I just love how there are people in our life that might have been around for a short time and some longer, but when you are able to get together, its like no time has passed. It was a weekend full of these fabulous visits.

A few pictures. Definitely didnt get near enough.







Also. Mistakenly was referred to as my (other) cousins girlfriend, and then wife to same said cousin, and then a friend's sister, and surprisingly also as her husband's twin. Funny stories. Lessons to me on not making snap judgments, or at least voicing them!

Out Of Office

I just had to pass this along. I found it rather amusing. Its from a co-worker who took 3 weeks off for his wedding and honeymoon.

Good Morning/Afternoon/Evening-

On the scale of lameness, this out of office email will rate rather highly. Do you ever have those periods when you’re just not feelin’ it? Call it writer’s block, temporary correspondence atrophy, or general email funk; the malaise goes by many a name. Like those medic-alert bracelet commercials of yesteryear, “I’ve fallen and can’t get up.” Sigh…this too shall pass. Until I get my groove back, you should probably contact one of the following highly communicative individuals to obtain more astute commentary on the state of affairs:

For data requests, please send an email to

For email campaigns, please send an email to

For issues regarding eFolio, please send an email to

For hosted Delphi support issues, please send an email to

For ISAC > Opera interface support, please send an email to

For questions about Hoovers, please send an email to

For concerns about the mapping tool, thank you for your feedback. I will be refreshing that data in late September upon my return. I am grateful for your continued patience.

For everything else, please send a note to:

If these guys are also experiencing a temporary communication shortfall, be not afraid. You can only keep good people down for so long before they rebound and send something really ridiculous. Until then, we can only ride out this storm comfortable in the knowledge that better times lay ahead.

Have a great start to September, and I will look forward to speaking with you on or around September 20th when I return.

Warmest Regards,

Conversationally Deficient in White Plains

Daily Amusement

Antoine Dodson warns a PERP on LIVE TV!

Religious Freedom

Warning. Politics and Religion are not usually topics that I share through this venue. But I feel the need to share. . . .

In the wake of controversy here in New York City over a Mosque near Ground Zero, I am thankful for a country that allows for religious freedom. Being that I am Mormon and our history is packed with countless stories of being treated horribly for having beliefs different to those of the communities we lived in, my heart goes out to those Muslims that are looking for more space so that they may practice their religion.

Yes, yes. The events of 9/11 are pinned back to members of the Islamic world. But it was a small portion of the Islam world that have these radical beliefs. And in comparison, there are plenty of things that the general public pins on Mormonism, that is not the whole or even a part of the Mormon faith. It is frustrating and sad that people dont find out the truth but rather just listen to (non researched and bias) voices around them. I had the chance to study the Islamic faith earlier this year, and found many commonalities with my own faith.

My heart goes out to all those that experience hatred and fear due to where they live and the faith they practice.

Im grateful for those that came before me and made it possible that I may go 60 blocks north to attend church every Sunday, that I may attend a Temple not only in Manhattan, but all around the United States and even the world, and that I may outwardly share my religion with those around me. Thank you.

Cut Off

For two+ weeks, I was greatly removed from the internet. Every once in awhile my iPhone would connect to wifi and I would get emails, and updated on Facebook. But it turned out to be more seldom than I thought would happen.

I got home from my trip and started to get back into my normal life, and I got depressed. After about a week, I realized that it was largely due to the amount of "social media" I allow into my life. Dont get me wrong. I love it, and am a huge advocate of it for many years now. But like everything else, there is a balance to life. And when one area has a larger hold than others, its just not good.

So. Im cutting myself off, slowly! And granted Im not great at this, but Im starting small. I took off certain apps from my iPhone. Im trying to reduce my personal internet usage at work, etc. Ive already started to notice a difference. Now if I can just keep with it and make it more of a habit.

I noticed that the new Mormon Message on Parenting is largely about media/electronics in a child's life and regulating it. Looks like I need to start with myself, if Im ever going to be a good parent, when that day comes.

My Heart Hurts

When I was with my friend and her family in Germany, her little guy would say "my heart hurts" anytime that he was unhappy or his feelings got hurt.

And that is the only thing that has been coming to mind lately. My heart hurts. Maybe its just the post-travel blues. Maybe its the irrational behavior that I have been exhibiting lately.

Im a romantic at heart. But I also hate to be the center of attention. In someways those two things contradict. But still, I want someone to make some outward expression of their 'love,' but Ill even just take interest, right now.

I think that is why I love the scene in The Wedding Date when Nick tells Kat:

I'm allergic to fabric softener. I majored in comparative literature at Brown. I hate anchovies. And I think I'd miss you even if we never met.

And then he grabs her hand.

Something so simple, quiet, and perfect.

Im turning 29 next month. Ohh. My heart just hurts.

Mangum Bars are the new Pan au Chocolate

I have been hesitant to post about my trip as I am waiting for all the pictures from my two travel companions. But. Oh well.

What a lovely European Whirlwind Trip that was. I wont bore you with ALL the details, but will just give you an overview.

Karlsruhe, Germany - Meet up with an old high school friend, Brandi, whose husband just took a job in Mannheim, Germany. Since it was so recent they still werent in their house yet, and we decided to visit in a different city altogether. It was great to spend time with her and her little family, and experience all things German together. I was amazed at how much German actually came back to me.





Luxembourg - What a fabulous little place. So clean and immaculate. Loved it here. All 18 hrs of it! I included a picture of Ilja, a fellow backpacker from Germany.






Brussels, Belgium - It took a few hours to enjoy it as the cleanliness was starkly different than that of Luxembourg. But the buildings were amazing, the food delightful, and the people so kind. Wish I had a local to show me around. Next time!







Delft, Netherlands - A relaxing few days spent with an old friend, Leah, from my days of pretending to learn German! She has been living there for 1.5 years now and her husband has been there for 3, so it was so nice to be with locals, and feel like a local. We rode bikes, enjoyed the country side leisurely, watched a movie (in which I was the ONLY one laughing at the movie in the whole theater), went to the North Sea, and just enjoyed being together and catching up.








Amsterdam, Netherlands - Leah and her husband joined me for the first afternoon there, and we meet up with my two traveling companions, Jasmine and Angela, and another fellow Boston friend Amie. We were all so glad to have 'locals' who knew where to go and what to see. Rent bikes again, but this experience was alittle more frightful. Enjoyed riding along the canals. We walked through the red light district, during the day and it wasnt really what I thought it would be like. Lots of nice parks, and museums.









We will not mention the night we hung out in the train station, er the platform.

Copenhagen, Denmark - Saw the original Cristus statue, and where the mermaid statue should have been, rode bikes again, and enjoyed the city.







Stockholm, Sweden - This was my favorite city. Visited the Palace. Saw where the Nobel Peace Prize is given out. Went to SoFo (thought to be like SoHo in NYC). Stadhuset. Historiska Museet (Sounds so much cooler in Swedish, the History Museum). And loved wandering through the streets. The Swedish people are so friendly, and beautiful! :)




** My favorite lunch. French Hot Dog and a bottle of Fanta Exotic.




This was taken on the cruise ship, er ferry, that we took to Helsinki. Loved leaving Stockholm and seeing all the islands. We played the 'Guess which one is Elins' game! Lots of good options.

Helsinki, Finland - We were tired by now, and just relaxed on the one day we had here. Visit a cathedral, relaxed in the Esplanade park, enjoyed a coffee shop, and watch Inception.

Fest i Nord - Background: This is an annual Scandinavian singles Mormon conference that has been happening for many, many years. This year it was in Lohja, Finland about an hour outside of Helsinki. I met some great people from all over the world. Visited with old friends. Enjoyed the spirit of Saints from all over the world who have such amazing testimonies. Danced, man do those Scandinavians love to dance!







When are we going back? Or to the other hundreds of countries that are out there?! My bags are packed, at a moments notice.

- When I traveled to France with a dear friend, we, er I, ate Pan au Chocolate everyday, if not multiple times a day! Since it was summer, I traded in my pastries for ice cream. I would give anything for a Magnum bar right now!

1 Week

This time next Thursday Ill be heading to the airport on my way to Germany. Ahh. I barely have my pre-planning/bookings finished. And now I need to start packing.

15 days. 7 countries. Lots of train miles, er kms! Im excited.

Under Construction

I recently finished reading Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman. And I would recommend this book, or any of the variations of it, ie For Singles, For Teens, etc, to anyone looking to improve relations with anyone around them.

One of my favorite ideas from this book is about how "All of us our in process." It was suggested that we should walk around with a sign that said "Under Construction." I love this imagery. The idea that we are all broken and need a little extra care from those around us. It reminds me of the thought that hospitals are for the physically sick, and churches are for the spiritually sick.



The Five Love Languages as the book defines it is:
1 - Words of Affirmation
2 - Gifts
3 - Acts of Service
4 - Quality Time
5 - Physical Touch

What is your love language? I feel like I receive in one language and give best in others. I need to learn how to feel and understand the others. And how to recognize what is the language of those around me.

Food for thought:
* Love is a choice.
* Love is not an island of emotion, but rather an attitude that corresponds with appropriate behavior.
* What we dislike in others is often a weakness in our own lives. Dating can help us see ourselves realistically.
* Humanity's greatest contribution is in giving to others.
* Marriage is God's answer for humanity's deepest need - union of life with another.

Brian Webb

This morning I realized that in a mere 7 days I get to listen to one of my favorite folk artist perform in my little city. Oh how happy this makes my heart. There is something about Brian Webb that I just adore and makes me feel right at home.

So, I got on youtube and started to enjoy some of my favorite songs people have posted. (Sad thing is, I think I can hear myself cheering/screaming/laughing in some of the videos!) Back in Boston for years, he could usually be seen at Club Passim, and I think I went to all his shows for at least a 2.5 year stretch. Mind you, that was probably only 4 shows. He didnt get out much for a bit. (And sad, I know why! We are tight!)

But I want to post this little beauty I found. Its obviously not an original song, but I just loved it. Hope you do too.

Summer is

What is summer to you?!

For me, Summer is:

- lazy summer days playing with my favorite little people
- eating ice cream with darling people
- meeting friends for dinner and enjoying a walk
- Swing Dancing outside
- riding bikes on islands far away
- sitting by the beach listening to the waves roll in
- fireflies



Last Night, Midsummer Night Swing started at Lincoln Square. SO MUCH FUN! Cant wait to go back. There were so many people to dance with, but a few of my favorites were the gentleman that are old enough to be my grandfather. They were darling.

I also finally had a Mr Softy. Seriously, why I have waited for this deliciousness? It might be a good thing that I work in the burbs and dont have a truck close to my work!

Sewing

Growing in a house with a mother that was a clothing and textiles major at BYU meant that I had sewing projects during the summer. With that being said, I havent touched the sewing machine for years. (Probably since college when I got asked to make some seat covers for a friend's school project.) My mom gave me her 1940s Singer that I do love to use. I just havent anything that really made me want to pull it out.

But that recently changed. When we moved in, we wanted to paint. And we randomly picked Orange with no fore sight as to what else we would do. But its has come together. When my roommate bought the couches, they came with these hideous throw pillows that looked like that should have stayed in the 80s. Luckily, I had had some fabric laying around that would work perfectly. So I finally went to work. After not using a pattern or pins and a measuring tool, I created the following. It definitely looks better from a distance! I want to make another, but with different fabric.

Take Out

I love take out. Fabulous food without the long wait and having to pay a tip. Amazing.

A few weeks ago, I grabbed some Pad Thai from a yummy place just a few blocks away. There was another girl waiting. I couldnt exactly understand the server when she came out with the first bag, and obviously the other girl also had a problem understanding. It wasnt until I was in my house that I realized I had the Vegetarian Pad Thai and not the Chicken. All I have to say is that Im glad I wasnt that girl expecting Tofu and got Chicken.

And tonight, I walked away with Chicken Pad Thai! Yum.

East Coast Happenings

in the last 48 hrs! I clocked in almost 800 Miles since Thursday at 8pm.

The summer is all about the lazy summer days. Fabulous evenings. The random road trips. Birthdays. Friends. Family. And that was definitely the last 48 hrs.

Baltimore - Enjoying working from home in a renovation downtown general store. There was a fabulous roof deck with power supply. Aka getting some sun while working. So good.

Loudon County - Friends, Lemonade, Sparklers, Summertime goodness. I will admit it. I drove 8 hrs to spend 3 hrs in the efforts to meet new people. I might not have meet many "new" people, but I did get to visit with a few old friends. Always worth the time/effort. Wish I had the guts to meet a few that caught my eye. Next time?!








Manhattan - Bridal Shower-ness. Love that there are people that can figure out this thing called love!

Windsor, CT - Tinker Bell birthday party for the cutest 3rd old. Enough said.



Manhattan - Returned to but decided to ditched out on another party. I hit my quota!

Good times. Next time, more time MUST be spent in the VA area. Also need to spend time in the Phillie area. So much to do, so many people to see. It will happen.

Comforts

I know. Two post in one day!

Do you have a comfort food or item or place? I love Cream of Wheat, but it has to be runny. I also love Blue Bell Creme Pops. (Hard to come by outside of Texas) Chicken Salads from Cafe Rio. I know not from my childhood, but so many good memories during college from eating at Cafe Rio. . . . I have found a sign that just makes my heart happy here in New York. Call me crazy. But I grew up on Stone Creek Dr. I was born there. I was raised there. I left for college from there. I go back to visit there.

When I first went to check out my apartment once everything was official, I was heading there from Time Square and going with my now neighbor. Since he lives at 27th, I ended up getting off the train at his stop and walking with him and then on to my house. And we came across this place. The moment I saw the sign, I had this feeling like I was home again. It was weird. And I may or may not just walk down this street to see this sign!





PS. Yes, To me it is only a sign. One day, I might to eat there. And then it will be more than a sign.

Observations

Let me first say that 1) I am an Urbanite. I love living in the city. To be able to walk out my door and enjoy all that the city has to offer, I am in my element. But I also know that there is a time and place for it all. And one day, I will want to officially hand in my walking shoes. 2) The only other city that I have lived downtown in has been Boston. And I loved it. So I really try not to make the comparison as they are different, but I do have to catch myself from comparing.

Here are some thoughts/observations from the last few days:
- There is a very thin line between public and private here in New York City. I feel like I walk passed many conversations, whether it be between people or someone speaking on the phone, that I really dont want know what the context is for the portion that I hear. Also, Common courtesy is not regarded very highly. Whether its just opening doors for people, or walking conscientiously so that you dont continue to cut others off on the side walk. . . . I think that some people feel like once they walk out of a store, office, than they are in a private setting. Its different than living in a suburban atmosphere where people might wait until they are in their car before letting down their guard.

- New York smells in the summer. Uughh. Whether its because of all the blasted people that have a dog in the city, which then uses the sidewalks as their restroom, or if its the trash that piles up on the side before the trucks come around, or if its just the amount of people getting all hot and sweaty. Simply. It smells. Makes me miss winter, just alittle.

- I now live in the most populous city in the world. AHH. There are ALWAYS people around. I now understand why its such a big deal to leave the city. And Im so glad that I have a constant excuse to get out. Family. And I love that they live, will live, there there is NO ONE.

- Saturday morning is the best day to watch a movie in NYC. Its $6 before noon. Hello. Why not go?! Its become a little bit of a tradition to hit up Kips Bay on 30th-ish and 2nd, and snag a slice of pizza on the way home (from any one of the many $2.50 a slice places) and to sit and eat it outside before making it home. Love it.

- There was a visitor at church on Sunday. Small Mormon world as she is friends with a dear Boston friend. Because of a comment she said, Ive been remembering to look up more. And quite frankly, the buildings in NYC are fabulous but more so at the top then at the bottom. I love the history, and the charm that abounds. I went on a walking tour with a new friend today, and we found some amazing buildings in my 'hood, Gramercy Park. Come visit, and Ill show you! ;)

A Question from Lydia

A friend posted the following article.

And ever since I read it, I keep thinking back on it. This idea of what kind of world will my children live in. My parents grew in a world that seems so foreign to me. My dad will be celebrating his 76th birthday this year, and was a little one during WWII and the Great Depression which seems like light years away to my upbringing in Plano during the 80s and 90s.

“In what kind of a world will I grow up? Lydia, age 10.”

What will it be like for my children. It kinda worries me to some degree. I know that in general, there is no use to worrying until there is something to actually worry about, aka having children. But as I interact with my favorite little people in CT, this thought has crossed my mind and heart more so lately.

Growing up in a very religious home and 'community,' learning and living with values was a huge part of ever day life, but I feel like in some regards the specific use of this vernacular is lost in general public, at least in generations close to mine.

. . .

I like this idea of sustainable values: values that inspire in us behaviors that literally sustain our relationships with one another, with our communities, with our institutions, and with our forests, oceans and climate. Maybe this is how we get it through those in big business, or what have you, to think beyond themselves but to act responsibly for the greater good. Not just personal good.

Love to hear your thoughts.

My Transient Friend

In the transient world I live in, Im grateful for the few things that followed me through different apartments. Meet this little guy. He has been a fabulous house plant for the last 5 years of my life. When I first saw him, it was not love at first sight, but I knew he would be perfect. And that he has been. Three apartments in Boston, Cambridge, Hartford, and now Manhattan. He has traveled more than some people I have meet in my life.

I just feel bad that now I have him in a window less apartment, and he is growing towards the LED night light that is underneath him. A few years ago I started to think it would be nice to settle down and have a beautiful garden. But Im just glad to have my little one that has been with me for so many years.

Its about the little things in life, right?!

Manhattanhenge

I was able to go and see this


Sadly my picture did not turn out quite like theirs. But it was cool to see. Also love that this was 1 block from my house. Have I mentioned yet that I love my neighborhood? Because I do.

Inspiration

One day. I hope to be half as good as this chick.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ayMPFsJmnU

'Sun's Still Shinin'

Tonight was week 2 of Social Sundays. We have been selectively, and not so selectively, inviting friends/acquaintances over for Games and Dessert, in the hopes that one day we dont have to invite and people just simply come over. . . . Im loving it. Its been random people, and a total blast. Tonight we played scum for 2 hrs, after already having played another game. Must say, I hit my quota, but did enjoy being king/president for quite a few rounds. It doesnt happen often. Must brag when I can, right?!

Today was my nephews blessing. I might have been running a few minutes late, but glad that Luke's blessing was second to his cousin! ;) I always love my time with the family, and my little people. Love them dearly.

On the way home from CT, I got to listen to a few minutes of country music. I find it odd that out of the millions of people that live in the greater NYC metro area, they have yet to put in a country station. There is just something about country music that is "comfort food" to me.

And all I have to say at the moment is:

And it's a great day to be alive
I know the sun's still shinin when I close my eyes
There's some hard times in the neigborhood
But why can't every day be just this good?

5 Things that make me happy today

1. Mosiah 28:3 Now they were desirous that salvation should be declared to every creature, for they could not bear that any human soul should perish; yeah, even the very thoughts that any soul should cause them to quake and tremble.

2. My train ride into/from work. I really missed this time from my commuting days in Boston. And I have it back. I finished a 'Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close' last week, and started 'Up in the Air.' Love me some reading time. What else should I add to my summer reading list? I might need some reminding that one day it made me happy.

3. Swing Class. I have been taking for a few months now. Im still not anything to comment on. But I enjoy going. And even enjoy going out social dancing. (except when there are serious creep-sters.) Im enjoying meeting new friends/people.

4. Reading a Josh Ritter article in the newspaper and remembering that I was going to his show this week. I love his music. I love watching him perform his music.

5. Driving in my car. I hadnt driven since last Tuesday, and today was b-e-a-utiful. Something about rolling down the windows, the breezy, the sunshine, the warmth. It made me happy.

Cold Day in NYC

It was a cold day. Scarfs. Hurried walks from the train. Coats. Closed toed shoes.

Where is the sunshine? Shorts? Grass between the toes? Soon, hopefully soon!

1st Day

Ok. I have officially been a NYC resident since the 23rd, have been sleeping in my apartment since the 1st. But today was my 1st day living in the city. Going to work. Evening activities. That sort of thing.

Mixed emotions. First. I love city living. I love the energy that people bring. But tonight my little feet are tired. I walked to my dance class and back, about 40 blocks each way. I need to get my city feet back. Second. Commuting. This morning it was pouring, so it took longer than it should. Considering my last place was a 10 min drive, Im going to loose some sleep. Cost of doing business, eh. Third. Im excited to be here. Doing this. Experiencing. Im ready to not look back, but look forward. Ready to find new things to love and new places to explore, and new friends to do all of that with.

Lets hear it for New York

In New York,
Concrete jungle where dreams are made of,
Theres nothing you can’t do,
Now you’re in New York,
These streets will make you feel brand new,
The lights will inspire you,
Lets hear it for New York, New York, New York

After living in Boston and falling head over heels for the city, I never thought that I could live in New York City. But Im going to do it. Dont worry, I wont be turning in my Red Sox hat anytime soon! For the last 6 months I have been living in Westchester County (20 miles North of the city) and heading into the city about 4-5 times a week. And with my current living situation changing, I had to find something else. I was in luck. Two fabulous girls were needing a third roommate, and I couldnt say no to the price of rent for my room. So I am now a NYC dweller. Feel free to come and visit!

LDM

The 12th sibling's child was born last friday, and I have yet to make an impact in order to one of them named after me. But alas, this newest addition atleast has the same initals!

Luke Daniel Midgley
4/16/2010
9lbs 2oz

Ill post a picture soon. He is darling little guy.

Its amazing to think that this little guy was getting wise counsel from a loving Heavenly Father not so long ago. I wonder what was said.

Hawaii

It was a perfect winter getaway trip. Fabulous locale, Great company, Amazing weather, Lots of sun and sand.


6 Days on Oahu - We stayed at my cousin's timeshare house in Laie
5 Shave Ices (You read right. No D.)
4 Cars driving 13 people around the island
3 Walker Cousins
2 Midgley Cousins
1 Fabulous Vacation

Im not sure I could live in Hawaii. But I do love to visit. We didnt "do" much by some standards. But that was absolutely perfect for me, as I have previously "done" most things on Oahu. The only thing missing, and will probably be missing from more trips to come, is someone to really enjoy it with. Dont get me wrong, loved spending time with family and meeting new people. But how nice it could have been to enjoy a walk on the beach with some special. One day. One day.

Some Pictures for your viewing pleasure.

Stole someones Laie for a picture

The flower was too big for my hair.

Sharks Cove on the North Shore

A Sunday stroll behind the house

A sunrise from my balcony


With my cousin David and brother Jeff



PS. 1 week later and Im still sporting my fabulous tan. I will be oh so sad when it fades.