In the Waiting Line

Makes you stronger.

2012-01-23T22:49:00.003-05:00

I love Kelly Clarkson's newest song. The lyrics really resonate with me. I often wonder what I would do without music. It truly is the reason I get through some days. Amazing how some songs seem like they were written for you. About you. It's good to know you aren't the only one. That there are others who share in your feelings and your experiences.

...What doesn't kill you makes you stronger
Stand a little taller
Doesn't mean I'm lonely when I'm alone
What doesn't kill you makes a fighter...

Must love dogs (or just my dog).

2011-10-24T21:45:00.000-04:00

No better truth could be said. This should also read, "Who loves me, will walk my dog." One of my favorite things these days (especially in the brisk, fall evenings) is taking Gizzie on long walks around where I live. The changing and falling leaves- shades of autumn. Mums on front steps. Gizzie rolling around in the soft, spongy grass. I love it.

Número Dos.

2011-10-20T21:49:00.000-04:00

Everything you would ever want to know (and that I'm willing to share)

2nd installment of many

Confessions

- I don't cook. I am not any good at it. And I don't enjoy it.

- I love to watch Golden Girls. I've seen every episode at least 3 times.

- I used to dislike movie premieres, until recently. Now I love them- they're like mini movies!

- I eat cookie dough, even in spite of it not being good for you. Not a lot though. Usually a small square of the slice and bake on a given day.

- I sometimes let my dishes pile up in my sink.

- Every night, around 11 pm, my dog jumps up on the couch and sits about 3 inches from my face and just stares at me (she's saying, "bed time!"). I would be lying if I said it didn't creep me out a bit.

- Every day is a Dido, Frou Frou, and Zer0 7 sort-of-day.

- As an undergraduate, I drank Dr. Pepper everyday. One day, I decided to stop drinking soda altogether. Now, I almost never drink soda-- maybe once a month.

- I'm usually the opposite of a defensive driver...especially now that I live up north near one of the most populated cities in the country.

Questions

2011-10-14T23:46:00.000-04:00

Questions I find myself asking quite regularly or just once.

When did people stop saying, "thank you?"

When did the world become Noah's Ark- everyone paired in 2's?

When did summer in Pennsylvania and Jersey start feeling like summers in Florida?

When did Americans decide it was ok to wish someone dead in cases where the justice system didn't hand down the decision they wanted or expected (e.g., Casey Anthony case)?

When did it become acceptable for a girl to wear a sports bra as a top to the movies?

When did promises stop being promises?

When people qualify a statement with "just kidding," how often do they actually mean it?

When people ask "how are you?," why don't they stick around to hear the answer?

Is alcohol really a truth serum?

Does Facebook perpetuate laziness?

Just a few to ponder...

Fall.

2011-09-23T19:23:00.000-04:00

Fall is....

- Pumpkin spice latte at Starbucks.

- Brisk mornings.

- Blazer weather.

- Fresh, crisp air.

- A pup with even more bounce in her step.

- The start of the holiday season.

- Visits with family.

- Changing of the leaves.

- Falling leaves.

- Apple cider.

- Tones of burgundy, rich chocolate brown, and rust orange in shop windows.

- Potted mums in shades of yellow and orange on doorsteps.

- Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

- Trips to New York City.

- Knee high boots.

- Beginning of the year's best fashion.

Philadelphia, PA. 2010.

Things.

2011-09-13T10:30:00.003-04:00

Everything you would ever want to know (and that I'm willing to share)

1st installment of many

- I'm old school and like Times New Roman font- it's pretty much all I ever use.

- When I was young (as in elementary school and earlier), I wanted to appear not as a follower and stereotypically "girly" so I always said my favorite color was blue when in reality, it was pink.

- If not for the Sun-In catastrophe in high school, I may still be blond today.

- I prefer shopping alone. I like to spend hours, or not, but want the freedom to chose my own pace. I feel odd when shopping with others (usually), unless it's my mother.

- I tried wearing heels to work the other day. I'm pretty sure I've worn heels 3 times since I moved up north, 2 years ago. I lasted 2 hours.

- I wish I was that person who got up half a hour early in the mornings to read the paper and drink a cup of coffee, but I'm not. I wake up with just enough time to get myself ready. I probably never will be that person.

- I look forward to the holiday season all year.

- I have no problem listening to Christmas music in October (gasp).

- I love to vacuum.

- I spend about 10 months of the year wanting (or enjoying) cold weather. I spend only about a month wanting hot weather. I was meant to be in the north.

- Still, I take driving in the rain any day over driving in the ice and snow.

Camo

2011-08-26T14:43:00.000-04:00

...something missing from my blog during the past 2 years- my scrapbooking creations. My scrap projects have been few and far between. Since I moved from Florida and started graduate school, life got in the way and I haven't had the time to scrapbook. I did bring all my materials and supplies with me (I had high hopes), but it has been an impossibility. The only things I have been able to create have been gifts such as the one below. I made this for my brother-in-law. It's their chocolate lab, "Camo." I thought John might like a piece celebrating one of the loves of his life. I included all his nicknames for him too. It's one of my favorite pictures of Camo. I really like the way it turned out and the color combination compliments the sepia toned picture well.

Now that I have finished graduate school (yes!!), I will have more time to devote to one of my favorite things. It's such a great release for me. Very therapeutic.

[click on images for a larger view]

10 things.

2011-08-24T17:21:00.004-04:00

Things that make me smile:

Colin Egglesfield

Long walks with Giz

Days when it doesn't rain

Honey green tea

Rizzoli and Isles & Suits

Perusing design/decor blogs

Being able to scrapbook again

Brisk mornings (fall is coming!)

Fall product at PB

Would you like a lemon with that?

2011-07-26T23:42:00.000-04:00

I took a trip to Florida during the end of June to visit my family and friends. The trip was well overdue. My dear friend Christina and I took a short trip to Mt. Dora. She had never been, and I've been many times before. I enjoy visiting the small town and knew she would enjoy its quaintness. We had such a good time together- catching up, laughing, complaining about the heat...she and I are so alike. Our time together always goes by too fast, but I am thankful for it.

View outside our hotel

Day at the Beach

2011-07-23T21:42:00.007-04:00

Took Gizzie to the beach for the first time during my visit to Florida. I learned that, like her mother, she is far from a beach girl. She is definitely not a water dog! She hated it and looked terrified anytime dad or I put her in the water. In fact, her favorite place? With my mom on the towel, under the umbrella, as far from the ocean as possible. But she did make some furry friends...

Play time with a Westie puppy!

Ash and I

Wet and sandy- looking a little rough.

Yes, that's Gizzie trying to get under my hat, where it's shaded. Sweet girl.

She would much rather watch all the other pups having fun in the water.

A little modesty goes a long way.

2011-07-23T01:46:00.005-04:00

I could not have put it better myself. True for me and true for the whole world. She has it right.

"I find the whole concept of being ‘sexy’ embarrassing and confusing. If I do an interview with photographs people desperately want to change me - dye my hair blonder, pluck my eyebrows, give me a fringe. Then there’s the choice of clothes. I know everyone wants a picture of me in a mini-skirt. But that’s not me. I feel uncomfortable. I’d never go out in a mini-skirt. It’s nothing to do with protecting the Hermione image. I wouldn’t do that. Personally, I don’t actually think it’s even that sexy. What’s sexy about saying, ‘I’m here with my boobs out and a short skirt, have a look at everything I’ve got?’ My idea of sexy is that less is more. The less you reveal the more people can wonder."- Emma Watson

Loves and the other stuff

2011-06-05T21:26:00.003-04:00

Things I'm loving:

- Gel manicures

- my new Marc Jacobs watch

- taking Giz on walks

- House Hunters International

- warmer weather!

- cake in a mug (thanks Ash)

- the fact that I *finally* found a wine I can drink...

- Adele's Rolling in the Deep

- all my summer shows premiering

- my bed

- sun dresses

- painted toes

- So You Think You Can Dance

Things I don't like:

- uncertainty, not knowing what's next

- New Jersey (I want to move somewhere new)

- editing papers

- dog digs in everything!

- sun burn

- sitting in traffic

Moosh, moosh

2011-05-27T22:33:00.004-04:00

It's been far too long since I updated my blog as well as post recent pictures of my lil moosh face. She surprises me every day. She's a handful and full of energy. She only ever takes 10-minute naps and wakes up rejuvenated, as if she's slept for 10 hours. It's impossible to stay mad at her (for eating something she's not supposed to, or chewing something she's not supposed to) because she's just so damn cute. She's the lap dog I never had. Giving kisses, playing with her toys (Humphrey, Oofa, Rufus, Ducky, and Lion), and her long walks outside are her favorite things!

bone.

brown eyed girl.

pillow talk.

rawr.

Some things I love...

2011-05-11T22:48:00.000-04:00

Some of my favorite things...all on my wish list, of course. Nordstrom, ShopRuche, and Etsy. Love.

Night Owl

2011-03-12T00:35:00.003-05:00

I have always loved the owl cookie jars at Anthropologie. The winking owl is new to me. I saw it for the first time at the anthro in the city. I absolutely love it! I can't decide which of these I like more, but I do know that I want at least one of them for my kitchen...

Katie's Farewell

2011-03-08T23:10:00.001-05:00

It's been too long since I posted pictures other than those of Giz. Pictures were taken at my general manager, Katie's farewell. She's now living in upper east side Manhattan! I envy her. I love NYC more and more with each visit.

Cheers!

My coat (nice mittens)

Nelson!

Two of my favs- Dennis and Amy

21 things.

2011-03-03T09:52:00.000-05:00

21 things I learned in 2010 (+2 months in 2011).

1. I can't use chopsticks. No matter how hard I try.

2. I knew a puppy would be a lot of work. But I didn't know just how much work until I brought her home.

3. It's important to be as politically correct as possible. Burning bridges is not advisable.

4. There are people who are meant to be in your life and then there are those who are not. Focus your energy and emotion on those who clearly want to be.

5. I want to move around as much as possible, while it's still possible.

6. I'm having a love affair with cupcakes.

7. New Jersey is not where I plan to settle down.

8. I may never like wine.

9. Trans-Siberian orchestra was, by far, one of the best concerts I've ever experienced.

10. Confidence needs to come from within first (work in progress).

11. The only person you can count on is you. After all, you're the only person looking out for your best interests.

12. I need to focus more on things I have control over, and ignore those that I do not.

13. I do not miss living in a place that feels like summer 11 months out of the year.

14. But I do sometimes miss the sunshine.

15. ...not enough to move back south.

16. Getting a Masters is no joke.

17. I only (for the most part) watch dark and depressing crime/law dramas.

18. After bringing home Gizzie, I discovered, maybe I can be maternal. It's just buried deep, deep, deep down.

19. I need passion in my life again.

20. I CAN like martinis!

21. I wish life was more like the show Glee.

2010 in pictures.

2011-01-17T20:27:00.000-05:00

As I did last year, I have decided to ring in the new year (a little late, I know) with a summary of my year in pictures. There is a noticeable change, or addition rather to my life. Little Gizzie. Affectionately, "Gizaboo."

Little red bow.

2010-12-25T14:07:00.003-05:00

My Giz-aboo.

The bow lasted about 10 minutes. Then she tried to eat it.

Gizzie

2010-12-05T23:46:00.003-05:00

Be prepared to be inundated with puppy pictures.

That is, if I can get her to stay still for TWO seconds. And perhaps, if I can get her to stop charging me and the camera every time I try and take a picture...then, I might get at least one cute shot.

I've named her "Gizzie." I can't take credit for the name, as a friend thought of it. It started out as "Gizmo" and soon evolved into Gizzie. After what seemed like a year's wait, I picked my pup up from the breeder this evening. Much to my relief, the lil one slept the entire drive home. And that's over a 1.5 hour drive. She was such a good girl.

Today marks the day that nothing will ever be the same. Today marks the day that everything will change. My little Gizaboo.

Love her already.

Carol of the bells (and mercury)

2010-11-13T21:13:00.000-05:00

I'm so excited for Christmas in Pottery Barn this year! It's my favorite time of year, as well as my favorite time to be working in the store. It turns into a winter wonderland. We get such beautiful product and this year, we're getting a lot of Mercury decorations (one of my favorites).

My tree is a champagne gold color. It's soft and muted. Not bright yellow or metallic as most may envision. It's truly beautiful. I'm not one to gravitate towards what is considered the "norm" or traditional. My ornaments are all silver, gold, mercury, and bronze, so the store's new ornaments will be the perfect addition (just a few, this year).

Dog days are over [but not for me]

2010-10-12T21:48:00.004-04:00

All I can say is holy cuteness. I visited the litter of the breeder I chose a few weeks ago. Momma had six in her litter, which is a rare occurrence with Yorkshire Terriers. Five of them were girls, so I had many to chose from. I spent over an hour with them. At such a young age though (just over 3 weeks), it's impossible to really get a sense of their temperament and personalities. My sister says at that age they look like little beans. Of course, they were cute- they're puppies! I've narrowed my decision down to two- the two in the third picture. The one on the right is the smallest in the litter. I hope to visit again in a week or two and make my final decision. I've already put a deposit down, so it's official! December 5th will be the big day I bring her home. She will be 12 weeks at that time. I have a lot to do to prepare for my new houseguest and am extremely lucky and thankful my mom will be visiting for 5 weeks during the holidays. She will be able to help me with her new "grandbaby."

Penny

Penny and Rain Drops

Doing what puppies do best- sleep

I could have taken her home in my purse (you think he would have noticed?)

"Feets"

ruff-ruff.

2010-09-05T20:55:00.006-04:00

This summer, I made the decision that I wanted a puppy. This wasn't a new or sudden revelation. I had to leave my yorkie, Chloe, in Florida with my parents. She is 14 years old, and I knew her soul couldn't take the move. I miss her everyday. With my move away from home, I knew I wanted to get a dog soon after I settled in my new place. My sister suggested I wait 6 months. By then, I would have a fairly regular schedule, which is important for puppies-routines and consistency. I agreed. A year passed, and still, no puppy. The delay was mainly due to my parents not supporting the idea of me getting a puppy. In their mind, I wasn't ready, for a number of reasons. After a great deal of thought and ongoing research, I decided that since I would be the one to take care of the puppy, I was going to determine when I would get the puppy. After all, I will be responsible for her, emotionally, physically, and financially (including the initial cost of the puppy). So I took the plunge. For the past month and a half, I have been reading about puppies, surfing the web, and researching breeders in the Jersey and Pennsylvania area. I plan to get a female, yorkshire terrier. It will be harder than I thought though. As it turns out, (of course) female puppies are more difficult to find as litters usually consist of more males. I hope to have the puppy by the end of December, just in time for a visit from my parents for the Christmas holidays. Dad is coming for a week, and my mom will be staying with me for about a month. Mom is looking forward to filling the role of "nanny" (as she says) to my puppy. The puppy will be a "winter puppy" so sweaters and fur-lined boots for in the snow will be a necessity. I haven't even found her yet, and she already is a fashionista in the making.

Chloe's first trip to the beach, 2009

Loveliness.

2010-09-02T21:17:00.004-04:00

Some lovely vintage inspired pieces. I found them here and here. The sites are two of my favorite places to peruse for inspiration and wonderful fashion and accessories. I would die for these blue suede [nearly] knee-high boots. I've always liked purses constructed like rosettes and rosebuds. I love rosettes in fashion...on shoes, in a grouping on a dress, on blouses.

Hypnotized, mesmerized by what my eyes have seen.

2010-08-10T19:33:00.003-04:00

I came across these artists while browsing the pages of craftgawker. What a great website with countless avenues for inspiration. Jeff and Dale make these wonderfully unique collage art bottles. They have an etsy site as well. Here are a few of my favorites. I would love to own one. They are such a cool addition to anyone's place.

I love the pops of aqua.

It's pale pink. How pretty.

Prepare for cuteness.

2010-08-04T19:27:00.004-04:00

I stumbled across this amazing photographer's blog, Sharon Montrose. She photographs animals and babies, mostly. When I first saw these pictures, I thought they were paintings. This dog is precious, precious. Looks like a teddy bear.

Be still my heart.

These streets will make you feel brand new, the lights will inspire you.

2010-07-21T08:42:00.000-04:00

I feel I'm such a city girl, despite the fact that I've never lived in the city. I wanted to live in the heart of Philadelphia when I moved up here, but it just wasn't in the cards for me. For now, being able to see the city skyline out my 7th floor apartment window will have to suffice. Next move, I hope to be in a city, even if it means living in an apartment the size of a closet. Even in spite of my love for the city, I still love to visit small and quaint towns. I can see myself possibly living in a place like St. Augustine (one of my favorite places to visit in Florida) post-retirement. I also dream of living somewhere in Europe one day too and there is no shortage of charming towns with cobblestone streets and outdoor cafes overseas.

Mom, dad, and I went to St. Augustine during my last visit home. We stayed in a hotel that overlooked the main street. I love the shopping there and always manage to find unique treasures at the boutiques and antique stores that line their streets. The restaurants are great too. The dinners we enjoyed were some of the best meals I've ever had. I have an appreciation for fine dining and can thank my parents for that. I stopped ordering off the kids menu when I was 6- no mac and cheese and hot dogs for me! Instead, I ordered filet mignon, salmon, and swordfish. And thanks to my mom and dad, growing up I was afforded delicious meals out (one of many perks of going home and traveling with the 'rents). I tried duck for the first time while on this trip and it was delicious! Although, my parents cautioned that I be very selective where I order duck. This restaurant was voted best in the area, so I felt safe in my choice.

Eating outside at one of my favorite restaurants. Reminded my mom of California.

My parents. I think of them often, now that I'm away.

A beautiful church. There are a lot of those in St. Augustine.

No Fourth of July has ever burned so brightly.

2010-07-14T10:28:00.003-04:00

I was invited to spend this 4th of July with a dear friend of mine in her hometown in Maryland. It was a small town, with a lot of charm. I had the opportunity to meet her family and friends from high school. It was a relaxing 2 days- floating in the pool, Maryland crabs for lunch, a barbeque, fireworks show from the dock, Kahlua, ice cream from the corner store, and good laughs.

Me and Erika

Erika's wonderful mom and step dad.

One of her mom's pups- she has 3 daschunds.

I had NO idea eating crabs would be so much work. They were good, but I think I'll stick to snow crabs in the future.

Dog at the beach.

2010-07-01T11:03:00.000-04:00

During my visit home, earlier this summer, my parents and I took Chloe-bear to the beach. It was her second trip to the beach and this time was very different from the first. Last time, it was quite with very few dog encounters. This time, we went to a different beach and the beach was filled with dogs! Mostly big dogs, but all very friendly (with the exception of a yappy yorkie, go figure). We almost acquired an old retriever who thought he was our lap dog. It was the sweetest thing. He kept coming over to us to "visit." His owner had to practically drag him away.

Our new friend.

Chloe's favorite place, on a towel and NOT in the water. Just like her "sissy."

Our lil rat.

With her daddy.

Z Gallerie loves

2010-06-30T16:30:00.004-04:00

I love Z Gallerie. It is one of my favorite home decor stores. Everything is always so striking and dramatic. Their product definitely makes a statement. I miss having one locally...

I know, a little weird. But I love to include the unexpected in design/decor. This would work great incorporated in one of my groupings in my bedroom or living room.

I'm in love with this light (oyster shells). I've wanted something like this for a long time.

A great end table and works well for small places, like my apartment.

April in Paris. This would go well in my bedroom. And it's not the ubiquitous black and white eiffel tower picture...it's unique.

For the love of owls.

2010-06-26T23:39:00.002-04:00

I'm not sure where my love for owls originated, but I have loved them for some time now. I find them so endearing and quirky. I've developed a special place in my heart for them. Whether in decor, jewelry, or clothes, I can't resist their wide (in a perceptual state of surprise) eyes.

Anthropologie

Cupcakes!

Cookie Jar (everyone should have one), Anthropologie

I love how the owl on the right looks angry. Still cute.

The simple things

2010-06-20T22:04:00.004-04:00

Current pleasures...

- Treating myself to Starbucks a couple times a week (courtesy of dad)

- Having radio controls on my steering wheel

- Being able to go grocery shopping at 9 at night

-...grocery shopping with no crowds

- Hearing a song and thinking it was written for ME

- Naps

- Parallel parking on the first try

- Pedicures and open-toe shoes

- J.Crew outlet

- Day trips

- Color Splash Miami

- David Bromstad

There's only enough for one in this lonely hotel suite.

2010-06-16T09:30:00.000-04:00

Some of my happiest times are when I'm creating, arranging, and organizing in my apartment. I haven't been able to enjoy one of my favorite creative outlets, scrapbooking, since I moved up north. I don't really have a space conducive to scrapbooking or time to get everything out, take over an entire room (in my small apartment), only to put it all away at the end of the day. I'm hoping, later this summer, when my thesis proposal is complete, I can spend some time scrapping (Smash, you're album is #1 on my list). Plus, I could use the distraction and retreat.

Something I have been able to do, periodically, is work (although, I can hardly call it "work") on the design and decorative elements in my living room. It's small, especially now that I have a large, sectional sofa (chair, shelves, coffee table) taking up most of the space, but it works.

Below is the only scrapbooking project I've completed since I moved. A canvas for my mom for Christmas. She loves that picture of me. I used a number of different elements- tulle, a doily, flowers, pearls, bling, overlays. It was the epitome of femininity.

"Green" pug

2010-06-15T12:58:00.004-04:00

This is the cutest thing I've seen in a long time. Found it on Elsie's blog. A "green" pug.

PB love.

2010-05-02T17:46:00.004-04:00

I recently visited the website for Pottery Barn. I found some beautiful and unique things. Things which are internet exclusives so we don't have them in the store. I can see all these things in my apartment now. Want them all...

Photo Carousel. Perfect for scrapbooking!

Inspired by actual vintage bottles. Aqua is my accent color in my living room.

I always love vintage tin tiles like these.

Love these vintage doors too. They are from India. And of course, each one is different, so you're never sure what you will get.

I've got a crush on you.

2010-04-17T22:58:00.008-04:00

I have a new crush. And it's this kid:

I'm thrilled this isn't the last we've seen of him on Glee. He's slated to appear in several more episodes. Although, for me, it won't be nearly enough. His voice...he could run circles around the beloved Finn (sorry). I really had no idea Jonathan Groff and Idina Menzel (broadway goddess) were guest starring on the show. Until this week's episode, I wasn't familiar with Groff's work. Now that I know and have seen what an amazing talent he is, I'm wishing I had seen him and the glorious Lea Michele when they starred opposite one another in Spring Awakening on Broadway. The show received fantastic reviews and has Tony Awards as proof of its greatness. After learning of his and Lea's performances together on Broadway, their undeniable chemistry on Glee made even more sense to me. Their voices blended so well together. The duet was chilling. I've been listening to 'Hello' on repeat since Glee aired (thank you, iTunes). I can't wait to see what Jonathan, or rather, Jesse St. James, will dazzle me with next. Glee is already a love of mine, but now, (enter Jonathan Groff) it's even more so. I have a feeling though, 'Hello' will remain my favorite moment of his...

Have you any idea why a raven is like a writing desk? ♥

2010-03-25T23:53:00.004-04:00

I truly loved this movie. After hearing mixed reviews, I became worried. I've been anticipating the release of the movie for almost a year. How could you not? It has JD as the Mad Hatter! I'm a huge, HUGE fan of Johnny Depp and will forever jump at the chance to see him in a crazy, off-the-wall, and twisted role. After seeing the movie, I can say there really is no veracity to the negative reviews I had heard. The movie was intriguing, enchanting, magical, funny (in a bizarre sort of way), imaginative (of course, it's Tim Burton!), compelling, and dark. It was wonderful. And Depp had me smiling the whole movie. Loved the Queen with her abnormally large head too. I'm so glad I saw the movie in IMAX 3D. It's always a great experience. Like Avatar, seeing it on the big screen is a must.

There's beauty in the breakdown.

2010-03-24T12:33:00.002-04:00

Things I learned during my spring break.

1. The Bakery House in Bryn Mawr is to die for. Their sweets are heavenly. Cakes are delish and they sell by the slice, which is perfect for me. I will be making the 30+ minute drive, by way of a not-so-great part of Philly, quite often. Side Note: I had some serious issues driving there and at one point, stopped in the middle of an intersection when the light wasn't (apparently) intended for me. A truck behind me started honking at me vehemently and continued to do so at every light thereafter. Even when I was supposed to be stopping. If that wasn't frustrating enough, at one light, he actually pulled up alongside me, creating his own lane, on the sidewalk and started yelling at me through my window. He told me, actually demanded that I roll down my window. I shook my head NO; I'm not stupid. Then, he started yelling obscenities at me. F- this, open the f-ing window, etc. etc. Definitely a scary moment for me. Bryn Marw is a really nice town, but leading up to it, it is not. It was the gh-etto! A guy I work with told me a way to avoid the "bad parts" of Lancaster Ave. What. A. Relief.

2. There really are beautiful parts of New Jersey. I don't care what everyone says, they do exist. I went exploring during my break in search of the sister stores of my favorite consignment store on South St. and in Bryn Mawr. They truly are the best I've ever been to. Greene Lane consignment has 4 stores and they are all fantastic. The owner has extremely strict criteria for accepting clothes. According to her website, she is reluctant to accept Target and Gap is considered low-end. Needless to say, I have come across some amazing designer pieces like Carolina Herrera, Dana Buchman, Anna Sui, and Diane von Furstenberg, and all for a minuscule fraction of the original cost. Still haven't bought any of those pieces, but one day. Still, I love that I can buy what I normally couldn't at these stores. Her newest store in located in Princeton, New Jersey. I was completely unaware of the fact that this was Princeton, as in the location of Princeton University, until I got there. What a wonderful town! A true "college town" dripping with history and charm. I loved it, and would love to live some place like that, at some point in my life. The university was beautiful and the campus reminded me of the Harvard campus (another wonderful place). It's definitely a town I plan to visit again. My GPS took me through a more scenic route- through winding roads, along the side of a mountain. Through trees and back country roads. And although, I initially criticized her (that puts it mildly) for taking me the "long" way, where the speed limit was only 40 mph, I eventually welcomed the opportunity to see such beautiful parts of New Jersey.

3. I need to keep a roll of quarters in my car. Everywhere I went during my break required that I pay for meter parking. When visiting small towns, or the city for that matter, parking lots are obsolete.

4. The rims of my poor car's wheels are receiving such a beating since I moved here. And oddly enough, it's not from parallel parking. My wheels gets scrapped by the curbs when I'm pulling forward, behind a car, for street parking.

5. When I lived in Florida, weather in the 60's was considered cold. Now, anything above the lower 50's is considered mild and feels wonderful. Leading to outdoor furniture being brought out, eating outside, and a wardrobe change to shorts and flip flops. Last week, weather was in the 50's and 60's and even got up to 70. I find myself pushing my down coats to the back of my closet and walking outside free of the weight of a heavy coat.

Shut your eyes and think of somewhere.

2010-03-17T00:48:00.002-04:00

I ordered this shirt. The moment I saw it, it reminded me of one of my favorite detectives, Mr. Hercule Poirot. He's such a funny, brilliant little man. I remember reading Agatha Christie's books in high school. Stories of him and Miss. Marple.

Side Note: The creator of the website where I found this shirt said whenever he grows a moustache he either looks like a gentleman or a criminal. Hence, the title.

Shades of grey.

2010-03-13T01:01:00.000-05:00

Changes.

I remember hating turtleneck sweaters. Now, I love them.

I remember refusing to wear the color navy blue. No matter how much my mom tried to get me to wear it, I wouldn't. I don't know what I associated the color navy with, but whatever it was, it wasn't good. Navy blue was "bad." Now, I can't get enough of it. I wear it all the time. That, and grey. And black, always. I think I'm truly turning into a "northerner."

For over 20 years of my life, there is no food I disliked more than tomatoes. I wouldn't eat them. I picked them out of everything. About 2 years ago, I woke up one morning and decided I liked tomatoes. And now, one of my favorite snacks is slices of tomatoes with mayo, salt and pepper. I love them on my sandwiches and burgers especially. Still can't stomach the really slimy and mushy ones, but they are no longer on my "foods I won't eat" list.

I stopped drinking soda after undergrad. The transition to no soda wasn't gradual. The less I drank, the more I realized I could live without it. And without it, I feel, I'm healthier. I've read, a soda a day can result in a 15 pound weight gain over a period of a year. Although, I am sure this is not true for everyone...

I try to eat yogurt a couple times a week. I never used to.

I don't like coffee. I can't seem to acquire a taste for it. But, I do like McDonald's iced coffee. Not sure why. And I love Java Monster's, Mocha Loca and Mean Bean. I also have my Starbucks drinks I can't live without, Chai Latte and White Chocolate Mocha. Perhaps (it seems) I'm slowly acquiring a taste for coffee.

...I still don't like wine (some things haven't changed).

The restless heart, the Promised Land. A subtle kiss that no one sees.

2010-03-10T23:37:00.003-05:00

My spring break officially begins tonight at 8:41 pm. Although, over the next week, I still will be working (is it really a break then?). And, I'm sick. Sicker than I have been in a long time. I knew it was coming. I get sick when I'm stressed. My immune system is down, and inevitably, I get the dreaded cold. The unfortunate thing about the "common cold" is, there is not much you can do to get rid of it. I'm taking a number of things to try to lessen the symptoms and shorten the duration-- but regardless, I'm forced to passively wait for it to run its course. Hoping it doesn't overstay its welcome, infringing on my much anticipated spring break. I'm well aware that my spring break will not be nearly long enough to accommodate all the things I need and want to get done. The amount of school work I have would require a month, not a mere 7 days. I miss the days when a spring break was just that, a break. But not for me. I have a killer Grad Statistics midterm to work on, along with reading a number of thesis-related articles and an IRB application to write up. Realistically, all these things won't get done, unless I forego sleep completely. It would be nice if I could do some fun things like:

- ~~See Alice in Wonderland~~

- ~~Go to Picasso Exhibit at the Phila Museum of Art~~

- ~~Visit Bryn Mawr~~

- ~~Find a local scrapbooking store...because I haven't yet.~~

- Sleep in. (I did once, not enough)

- ~~Go to the Reading Terminal Market in Philly~~

- ~~Celebrate St. Patty's Day!~~

...we'll see how much of my list I actually accomplish. Something I haven't done since I moved here is scrapbook. For me, scrapbooking was my source of escape. My therapy. I've only completed one project since my move- a canvas for my mom for Christmas (I haven't posted pictures yet because I may submit it). This summer will be a great time for me to scrapbook. Of course, if I can find the time between work and my thesis (and possibly an internship). I'm determined to at least work on my (very patient) friend Smash's wedding album....she will be celebrating her 2nd anniversary this summer! Did I mention how very patient she is?

Talk, talk is cheap. Give me a word you can keep.

2010-02-09T16:23:00.002-05:00

My [current] loves:

Snapple Raspberry Tea

ModCloth website

My Andover cabinet from Pottery Barn

Civil Twilight

Peppermint Chai

My Anna Nalick station on Pandora

DVR (although it facilitates my watching far too much television)

Organizing

My almond and Apricot Body Wash

Starbucks red velvet cupcakes

Cold weather (still)

Down coats

The morning after it snows, how it sparkles

Living 10 minutes from campus

Etsy Pounce!

Colors grey and navy blue

Scent of apple cinnamon when I come home

Anticipating my beautiful, new couch coming in March!

Song, Defying Gravity from Wicked

My year in pictures.

2010-01-13T23:33:00.084-05:00

2009 was a year of "firsts" for me. First time living outside Florida, without my family. First day of graduate school. First time living alone. First big snow fall (23.2 inches). First time driving in snow. And many more.

This year I made a big decision. Not my decision to apply to graduate school, (although a big decision) that decision came earlier, during my last year of undergrad. The decision I'm referring to was my choice to apply to out-of-state programs. I've wanted to leave Florida since my senior year of high school. At the time, I thought I would be going out of state for my undergrad, but I ended up staying relatively close to home. I wasn't ready to be out on my own. Not completely, that is. I still needed to know I could call my parents or sister and in a moment's notice they could be by my side if necessary. I needed the option to drive home on a weekend I was feeling sad or stressed, knowing my mom would sit on the bed beside me and listen to me vent, or comfort me when I cried (I miss that).

I lived in Florida for nearly 17 years, and I don't think I ever really felt emotionally attached to it. I, of course, was emotionally attached to the people there, but not to the place. The idea of living apart from my friends and family is not what appealed to me. It's difficult living several states away from the people I care for and love most. Despite difficulties that come with moving away, the idea of living some place so vastly different (and trust me, New Jersey is vastly different than Florida) from where I spent most of my life is what appealed to me. A place where the culture, people, and weather are so different. Maybe the fact that I've been fortunate enough to travel a lot throughout my life was a catalyst for my move. I've had the opportunity to see so many different places; places I've fallen in love with- New York City, Boston, Vermont, Vegas (but not to live), New Orleans, and Maine, just to name a few. Visiting these places has made me want to see more. Experience more. True, I could have moved to some place close, like Georgia, but that would not have been nearly as satisfying for me. So with my yearning to be some place else, some place new, I started applying to out-of-state schools. I applied to schools in Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, and not one school in Florida. I wanted to apply to schools in NYC, but my family all made it very clear that it wasn't a place I could live, at this stage in my life. And sad as it is, they were right. My final decision came down to Rutgers and Boston University. The idea of living in Boston appealed to me more (Boston is a great city!), but not enough to outweigh the fact that Rutgers was a better program, and better suited for me, in my view. And instead of a program of over 50, I'm 1 of 12 students. There are so many advantages of being part of a small cohort, like being able to work one on one with faculty in the program. It has been quite a change, leaving a school whose student body is over 53,000 (now the third largest university in the U.S. by enrollment, surpassing UF), to Rutgers' smallest campus with about 5,000 students. The fall of 2009 was a time of great adjustment for me as well as a constant struggle to navigate these crazy roads with crazy drivers! But, I have never regretted my move. I'm learning that New Jersey's reputation as the "armpit of the U.S." is mostly a misguided one. Like everywhere there are beautiful parts, and not so beautiful parts. I'm quickly getting used to the cold and finding that with the right clothes and multi-layers (and a down coat), it's really not too bad. Although, I still haven't experienced the worst of it, I'm afraid. My rain boots are a close friend of mine, as it rains here often. Still, with all the rain and snow, I'm glad I came.

Below is my year in pictures. Relay for Life, St. Augustine with a dear friend, trips to NYC, farewells to my managers at Pottery Barn, lunches with Kathy and Smash, the aftermath of the second biggest snowfall in Philly's history, my Halloween in Scranton as a Go-Go dancer, 4th of July in mud (on the back of a 4-wheeler), my car buried in snow, the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, a day with my 94 year old aunt, my internship at the clinic, Philly sunsets outside my apartment window, scrapbooking creations, one of my Rutgers professors, my beautiful, gold Christmas tree, and the St. Patty's day parade in Ybor.

Something has changed within me

Something is not the same

I'm through with playing by the rules

Of someone else's game

Too late for second-guessing

Too late to go back to sleep

It's time to trust my instincts

Close my eyes, and leap! ~Wicked

I see you.

2010-01-12T20:45:00.004-05:00

You know, I didn't think I would see Avatar. It just wasn't a movie I thought I would be interested in (I was so wrong). I didn't watch the previews when they came on. I didn't listen to all the talk about the movie after it came out. But finally, after hearing only about a thousand times how amazing the movie was, how it took James Cameron 12 years to make, etc. etc. I decided I needed to go see it. I figured it would be a movie people would talk about for years and years after. And after seeing it, I know it will be. In my view, it was a cinematic masterpiece. It was beautiful. There was action. A love story. Death. Sorrow. War. Passion. Everything you could ever want or hope for in a movie. The whole experience was magical. I saw it in IMAX 3D and I'm so glad I did. It made the movie even more astounding. I came home and watched a clip on the Avatar website (see below). It made me wish to see the movie again, that very moment. And I probably will. It's worth the $12.50. Pandora was a breathtaking place. Sully's Avatar, breathtaking. His and Neytiri's love and lifelong bound, beautiful. I'm gushing, I know. But it's truly one of the most magnificent movies I've seen in my (short) life. No wonder it took James Cameron 12 years to make...

Official Avatar Movie

Why I love NYC.

2010-01-10T22:19:00.003-05:00

Favorites.

Concrete jungle where dreams are made of.

2010-01-10T21:25:00.006-05:00

More pictures from my November trip to New York City.

What am I gonna do when the best part of me was always you.

2010-01-06T22:14:00.015-05:00

I'm so behind on blogging. So much, that I'm just now getting around to posting pictures from my trip to New York City in November. I went there with a friend from Florida for the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. The weather couldn't have been more perfect. In the 50's (not bad at all), no rain and no wind. I thought the parade would be something I would later refer to as a, "been there, done that" moment. Surprisingly, this isn't the case. On the contrary, I would love to go again. I really enjoyed myself. Of course, had the weather been different, I might not feel the same.

Awaiting the start of the parade, 7:30 am.

Allison

Some highlights from the parade.

I am just a picture frame, I am not the painter.

2010-01-04T20:41:00.006-05:00

Favorite songs [right now]

Set the Fire to the Third Bar, Snow Patrol

Heartbreak Warfare, John Mayer

Break Even, The Script

Letters from the Sky, Civil Twilight

Need You Now, Lady Antebellum

Hey, Soul Sister, Train

Halfway Gone, Lifehouse

Music is a very important part of my life. It's a constant. A place for retreat. A way to remember...or forget. It's art. Imagination. And love.

Snow is falling...

2009-12-19T22:49:00.005-05:00

As of 10 this evening, we had reached 16 inches of snow. Record since 1909, when we had 21 inches of snow. There is a possibility we will surpass that overnight. When I first moved here, locals kept telling me, "Philly's winters aren't that bad" "We don't get really bad snowstorms." And then, they would always add, "Just wait, now that I've said this, we will have the worst winter ever." And just for me, their speculations came true. It's quite the initiation I've been given! I truly feel like I'm in a foreign land- this Floridian is not used to this. The last time I saw snow I was 6, living in Germany and I don't remember it too vividly.

I went out in the snow twice today, in order to get the full experience (without actually driving in it). Also, I wanted to get the snow off my car. Between 1 pm and 10 pm my car managed to get buried in several feet of snow. My tires were hidden and snow was piled high on the roof of my car. At that level of accumulation, my long-handled brush/ice scraper wasn't very effective at clearing the snow off my car. As I walked around my car, the snow almost reached my waist in places. On my list of things to buy (asap): Snow shovel. To get to my car, I had to walk through 2 feet of snow, across my complex's courtyard. I laughed the whole way to my car. It was truly an experience.

My car, at noon today. By 10pm, it was buried under several feet of snow.

One of the views from my window (left)

The trees are beautiful when it snows.

Love.

One day soon I'll hold you like the sun holds the moon.

2009-12-13T23:29:00.001-05:00

I have found a new love, and they're from Cape Town, South Africa. Civil Twilight is the band's name. This trio is amazing. I heard their music for the first time last week on the radio and was completely mesmerized. Their sound, the lyrics, the vocals. Sweet, sweet music. I find myself in another place when their music plays. I've listened to a number of their songs, all just as good as the one before. I can't wait til they get the recognition and fame they so deserve. Then, I can see them live. Although, I'm not too sure my heart can take it. Gosh, musicians. <3

Letters from the Sky, Civil Twilight

<3

2009-12-04T00:40:00.003-05:00

Urban Outfitters is love.

Measuring Cups, Urban Outfitters. Aren't they cute?

'A' keychains, UO

Circle Scarf, UO

Rose Earrings, UO

Hercule Poirot ring, ModCloth online

Mystery and Jude Law

2009-12-03T21:53:00.000-05:00

Holmes for the holiday. I can't wait...

Favorite.

2009-12-02T00:05:00.004-05:00

I want this shirt.

[palmer cash]

Things I love- Part I

2009-11-22T02:25:00.011-05:00

Things I love:

Coco Stick Table Lamp, Z Gallerie

Stormy Seas necklace, Anthropologie (can't find it in stores, only ebay)

Season print, Etsy

Silk print, Etsy

Navy blue Longchamp Medium Nylon tote

There are a lot of things in life that I love.

Could it be love?

2009-11-19T23:40:00.006-05:00

I know I'm a bit late in this realization, but I love Vampire Diaries. I haven't been able to watch it consistently as I have class Thursday evenings until 9. But, the two weeks where class has been cancelled (this Thursday being one), I was able to catch the show. At first, I was completely opposed to the idea of liking it because it felt much like Twilight. I was getting some serious deja vu. Later, I found out that the Vampire Diaries books were written pre-Twilight. It was then, that I could fully appreciate the show. Or is it Stefan who I truly appreciate? Probably more of the latter. Stefan is...beautiful. And his physique, even more so. And his brother, initially, I didn't like Damon. Mainly because he's the "bad" vamp. But, his cockiness and an ever-present air of arrogance is starting to grow on me. His good looks don't make it too difficult to like him. With that said, the show is still a little juvenile, a little high school, and predictable, but alas, I like it. Not everything in life needs to be overly thought-provoking. I have enough to think about with school. Sometimes a little eye candy and some vampires suffice.

Stefan

Dark. Pale. And handsome.

The brothers.

They will see us waving from such great heights...

2009-11-10T10:00:00.005-05:00

I am sitting in the waiting room of the Mazda dealership, pondering the differences between men and women. And this is why: anticipating a long wait (at least 3-4 hours) I came prepared. I brought my lap top, psychology articles to read, my headphones to listen to music, snacks, and something to drink. Pretty smart. The guy sitting next to me, probably in his late 20's/early 30's brought....nothing. He has managed to read every magazine in the waiting room though, including the ones marketed towards female audiences. Now, he has graduated to killing time on his phone...

2009-10-30T01:36:00.005-04:00

I went to Borders this evening. Finding one that wasn't a Borders Express in a mall was more challenging that I had anticipated. Two Borders later, a call to directory assistance, and much yelling at my GPS ("re-calculating" ringing in my ears), I found one. I had initially planned to buy several books, but after much consideration, I came to the sad conclusion that, right now, I have no time to read anything other than psychology journal articles. So I left, no books in hand, but instead, a few ned CD's. Holiday, of course. With that said, I have quite a "want" list of books. Naturally, I went straight to the Bestsellers wall and came across a title that caught my eye, "What the Dog Saw." Much to my excitement (nerdy, yes) I recognized the author of the book from a short clip I watched in my Graduate Research Methods class. Then, I realized that this book was not his first, but he has written several other, very well known books that have made it to the National Bestseller list. Outliers, The Tipping Point, and Blink. He is a very intelligent, dynamic, and funny man, so I imagine his books are equally as engaging. And so my list of books begins...

Book Wish List:

- The Political Brain by Drew Westen

- Freakonomics and Super Freakonomics (I went and saw one of the authors at the free library in Philly last week) by Steven Levitt and Stephen Dubner

- What the Dog Saw, Blink, and Outliers- all by Malcolm Gladwell (Staff writer of The New Yorker magazine)

- The Intellectual Devotional- Revive Your Mind, Complete Your Education, and Digest a Daily Dose of Wellness Wisdom

- Forty Studies that Changed Psychology: Explorations into the History of Psychological Research

My list will continue to grow over the coming months. I know I want to read some of David Sedaris' books as well.

And I do believe it’s true, that there are roads left in both of our shoes

2009-10-30T00:49:00.003-04:00

I love people who take chances when it comes to fashion. There are way too many cookie-cutter looks out there. I wish I had more time to consider my outfits these days. Regardless, I have tried to maintain my flair- whether it's wearing my leopard print ballet flats as I did today, or wearing a bohemian inspired wide bracelet, a golfball-size turquoise ring, or carrying a plum colored handbag. There is no doubt, dressing is much more exciting now that I'm in a cold climate. I love winter clothes so much more than summer clothes. There is more room for experimentation, cool layering pieces, a wide array of textures, etc. I love coats and scarves. Hats work great with my short hair. And boots- be still my heart. Dad got me a pair of burberry rain boots after my first visit to Philly when it rained for 3 of the 5 days we were here. Best. Purchase. Ever. The Philadelphia weather has managed to break my long loved, leopard umbrella. But, it will not destroy my mushroom umbrella- it's much hardier. Below is a website (courtesy of my friend, Smash), that I love. It has some great inspiration and I'm hoping to start applying some of my favorite looks from the site in my own day-to-day outfits. My life right now consists of little more than school, reading, working, data analysis, and sleeping. I need to try to infuse into my world a few of my loves to maintain my sanity. Otherwise, graduate school will get very old, very quickly.

The shoes some of these girls have are amazing: http://weardrobe.com/featured

My kitchen.

2009-10-15T22:36:00.008-04:00

A few snapshots taken in my kitchen. Despite the fact that I don't spend too much time cooking, it doesn't lack style. It's black, white, and red. My dishes are all predominantly black and white (of course). Everything was brand new when I moved in. New refrigerator, dishwasher (although, not without problems), stove, microwave, cabinets, and countertops. I'm *still* getting used to using a gas stove. It's amazing how much quicker everything cooks/heats, or in my case, burns. I'm almost at the point where I'm not burning everything. I have managed to ruin a fantastic pan my mom got me though.

Salt and pepper shakers are from Anthropologie [LOVE]. Red vintage cash register is from an antique fair I went to in Dade City, Florida last year. Dade City is a tiny town, but has some great little antique/vintage stores. Lady bug is from Target, another favorite store of mine. You can never leave Target empty-handed.

A willow deeply scarred, somebody's broken heart.

2009-10-14T14:12:00.004-04:00

Manayunk is such a great town. If not for the fact that it's located outside of Philly, which would mean a 20 minute commute and $4 toll to drive to school, I would be living there right now. It's an old, artsy town with a lot of character. The houses are very European and remind me of Germany. Main Street is like the name, the main street in town. It has over 20 restaurants with little boutiques, shops, antique stores, etc. The place practically screams my name. It's so the type of place I see myself living one day. And it's not "the city" either. The streets are lined with tables and chairs where locals sit with their dogs and enjoy long lunches and leisurely dinners. The evenings and weekends in Manayunk are always bustling with laughter and chatter- wonderful scents permeating through the air. Below are some pictures I took of a stone church located on one of the side streets in town. It's a huge church, taking up an entire block. It's very old and majestic looking. There is a cemetery on the grounds and for some reason, I find myself intrigued by it. Not a normal reaction, I suppose. It's guarded by a tall, black iron fence, making it impossible to explore any further than my camera lens will take me.

Sunsets of Philly

2009-10-13T23:50:00.006-04:00

My absolute favorite part of my new place is my view. I love being able to watch the sunset. It's truly beautiful. I get to see this out my window on a regular basis. The color is even more intense irl.

Glee is wonderful.

2009-09-24T12:52:00.006-04:00

Seriously, I love this show. It's unlike anything on television now. It's so witty and original. And will always make you laugh. This was by far my favorite episode since the season premiere a few months ago. Best scene from last night's episode- had me in stitches! I was surprised at how well the football team danced to Beyonce's, Single Ladies. Pretty light on their feet. haha. Enjoy.

Random thoughts for the day.

2009-09-21T21:01:00.005-04:00

I spent my "weekend" reading articles and writing. Welcome to the world of graduate school, baby girl.

I didn't understand an entire article I read. And it was nearly 30 pages. What was it about? Couldn't tell you. Not even the main idea. Turns out, we weren't supposed to really understand it. So said my professor who assigned it. What. A. Relief.

I missed a vital turn to get home tonight. And by the way, in New Jersey, you can't just make a U-turn. They are pretty much not allowed. And, the road I happened to be on was separated by concrete barricades. I came to a road that was familiar and I needed to make a left turn. A sign was posted, "no left turns." Fabulous. Well, with a little maneuvering I found my way home.

I love that campus is only 10 minutes from my apartment.

I still missed the first half of the season premiere of House. The episode was so up my alley. It's a shame House was released at the end. I would have liked more episodes like the season premiere.

Be still my heart.

2009-09-19T23:00:00.001-04:00

A vintage typewriter has been on my wish list for years. I have searched for the perfect one, but alas, have not found her yet (at least not one I could buy). I found a number of black vintage typewriters at flea markets, vintage stores, and an antique fair in Mount Dora last year. For some time, I thought I wanted an aqua typewriter, but have recently changed my mind. Now, my heart is set on this beauty...

Truly, it was love at first site. A seller on Etsy, PoeticHome has some fantastic vintage typewriters (she sold the one above a few weeks ago). She has 1950's typewriters in every color you could ever want (like retro red)- she even has had typewriters that type cursive. Unfortunately, she is way out of my price range. Her typewriters range from $250-600. And of course, the ones I love are in the $500-range. Like a bee to honey. Always. I have expensive taste, just like my mother.

But, o how I love thee.

The Marshmallow Test

2009-09-18T15:28:00.000-04:00

This is too cute. Made me smile. And shows that children do have the will power to refuse instant gratification for the prospect of bigger and better things. Perhaps I should take a hint from them. Patience is a virtue. Follow link below.

The Marshmallow Test: Cute or Cruel? - ParentDish

Grey

2009-09-11T13:50:00.000-04:00

The city today is shrouded in grey clouds and rain.

An outline of the skyline, barely visible from my apartment window.

A line, dark mist runs across the sky.

Parallel to the ground.

Rains beats down on my window.

Entering from the skies at a slant.

The trees sway with the wind.

Their leafs and branches wrap around my building.

For protection?

I don't know.

Perhaps.

The world seems quiet today.

Only sweet music in my head.

And occasional car horns bleep outside my window.

Sway, sway, sway go the trees.

Grey, grey, grey day.

How fitting, it is.

Two words heard 'round the world.

2009-09-11T00:03:00.000-04:00

On Countdown Keith Olbermann addressed Rep. Congressman Joe Wilson's outburst where he shouted, "you lie" during President Obama's speech to Congress. Olbermann declared the only thing more offensive and embarrassing than the lack of civility Wilson displayed, is that he was glaringly wrong in a comment that embarrassed the nation.

I frankly don't care that Wilson apologized (sincerity was not a motivating factor) because he shouldn't have said it in the first place. Even John McCain found his outburst disrespectful, stating he should apologize immediately. Republicans all over are giving Wilson the 'thumbs up' for his behavior. Go ahead, be happy for a man who expresses his views in a manner equivalent to that of a 3-year-old. How disappointing.

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

You're awfully small to be so hugely irritating.

2009-09-08T15:39:00.000-04:00

Marah Johnson is a friend of mine on Facebook. I absolutely LOVE her work and have always admired her. She is one cool chick, with a funky, kind of dark, but feminine style. She posted recently on her Facebook a Twilight inspired class she planned to teach. Last night she posted the details of her class, contents of her Twilight album kit, the price, and her PayPal address for all those who wanted to purchase the kit (and couldn't make her class...which is in Cali). She gave first "dibs" to all her Facebook freinds which I think is pretty awesome. She posted the class today on her blog after hearing from everyone who wanted the kits on FB last night. I was one of those people. I couldn't resist. I've been very good lately. I haven't bought one kit, not from Label Tulip, Studio Calico, Bad Girls, nada, for at least 6-7 months. And considering the idea, style, and look of the kit is centered around one of my favorite books, I decided I had to have it. She will be shipping out the first batch this Friday. I hope mine is in there!

Obama school address.

2009-09-07T17:04:00.000-04:00

I love satire. Especially when used in politics. And this cartoon is truly perfect.

The issue of why President Obama wouldn't release his speech to the public was seriously

overdramatized. This isn't the first time a United States President has addressed our nation's

youth (Ronald Reagan and Clinton for example), so why the concern? So much concern, that

parents have said they plan to keep their kids home from school or plan to go to school with

them, on the day of Obama's speech. And now all their misguided concern (expressed mainly

by Republicans) seems pretty ridiculous, after it's release. I read the speech, and it's completely

harmless. His message does nothing more than provide children with guidance, encouragement,

and a source for inspiration. Really, nothing that could ever be construed as indoctrination or

"brainwashing," which is what some Republicans were asserting. I can't even find any subtle

attempts to push his policy on students. Instead, he encourages children to do well in school,

listen to their teachers and parents, and have goals for their future. It seems now, after the

transcript's publication, opposition for his address seems fallacious at best. Was protest made

because of concern for our children, or was it due to a personal dislike for the president

himself (and a very partisan opposition to any policy decision or initiative made by the

president)?

As Frank Luntz, a onetime strategist for Republican candidates stated, "Conservative critics need to pick your battles, or at some point the public will stop listening." I couldn't agree more. Republicans are ready to oppose any and all things proposed by our President, even in instances where it might help our economy and citizens in need.

Below is a link to the transcript of the school address:

http://www.whitehouse.gov/MediaResources/PreparedSchoolRemarks/

The more you look, the less you see...

2009-09-05T17:43:00.000-04:00

Things that make me happy [right now]

- Taco Bell less than 5 minutes from my apartment

- 3-way light bulbs

- Criminal Minds marathons on A&E

- Getting to see the sunset/skyline each night from my apartment windows

- Knowing how to get to and from campus without my GPS (and in the dark)

- Being surrounded by people who can intelligently discuss politics

- Wegmans- the most amazing grocery store you will ever know

- Wegmans' blueberry muffins (they're the kind with sugar on top)

- Temperatures in the 70's in September (3 months earlier than Florida)

- Imogen Heap, sweet, sweet music

- Shoe stores with 4 aisles of boots, instead of flip flops

- Ulta eyeshadows

- Avocados and tomatoes* (with mayo)

- My new 'X' and 'O' earrings (one 'X' and one 'O')

* How I went from hating tomatoes, to loving them is a mystery to me. I, for 20+ years absolutely refused to eat them, except in pizza sauce or spaghetti sauce. Mom tried hiding them in her dishes, but it never worked. She really wanted me to like tomatoes. I'm sure the texture is what turned me off. I still don't like their mooshy centers (that's why Grape tomatoes are great), I scoop it out with a spoon, but I've been eating tomatoes more and more lately. Great meal: scrambled eggs, slices of tomatoes and avocados with mayo. Add a few slices of cheese, and the meal is golden.

We won't have to drive too far, just 'cross the border and into the city

2009-09-03T15:10:00.000-04:00

Driving adventure of the day: trying to find a nearby Bank of America. My GPS said it was only "1.6 miles" away." 1.6 miles turned into 25 minutes, and her re-caluculating about a dozen times and me driving on the same road 9 different times going in each direction, followed by me, going in circles. Sometimes when I look at the GPS screen, I just laugh. The highlighted route often looks like a bowl of spaghetti with winding roads, clover leafs, and jughandles. It's no wonder I'm always getting lost! I'm not sure how long it's going to take me to "get" the roads and highway system in New Jersey, but I'm definitely nowhere close. Dad, on the other hand, mastered it in a week. He is the one giving me driving directions and suggested routes over the phone, from Florida. He has an obvious propensity for anything related to driving and directions. Unfortunately, I didn't inherit this quality.

Throw a stranger an unexpected smile...with big intention.

2009-09-02T11:54:00.000-04:00

I woke up today with the worst headache. Now I know I'm starting to get back into "school-mode." A headache is one way my body reacts to stress. After attending my first class as a graduate student, my worst fears were affirmed. My career as a graduate student is going to constantly force me outside my comfort zone, engaging in activities such as public speaking and class discussions. All things, I know, should be mastered in order to be successful. But this fact doesn't make those "things" any easier. My Research Methods professor is funny and thank goodness for that, because research methods isn't what I would call a "scintillating" subject. I met Dr. Duffy back in April when I visited Rutgers, in hopes that meeting faculty members would help in my decision-making process (and it did just that). During my meeting with him, he put on this mask, a mask he got during one of his trips to Japan:

Yep. That's one of my professors. And he actually kept the mask on for part of our meeting. His class is going to be challenging, but considering it is graduate school, it's not meant to be easy. In his class, I have to do a mini thesis, with a thesis proposal to the class in about a month. Despite it being at a much smaller scale than an actual Masters thesis, I still have to come up with a topic, find subjects, collect data, record results, write a paper (15 pages), and present my findings to the class. For one of my other classes, Intro to Psychological Science, we have a project as well, and it's a bit more tedious. Presentations are 35 minutes and they start in 3 weeks! Our paper is 20 pages long. Our topics are due this coming Tuesday and I have NO idea what I want to do.

The sweeping insensitivity of this still life.

2009-09-01T20:36:00.001-04:00

Over the past several days, my blog has truly been the "online journal" that it was meant to be. Of course, being that I *just* started graduate school today, I'm not sure how well I will do at keeping this up. I imagine my schedule is going to fill up fairly quickly with reading, studying, conceptualizing, theorizing, reading, writing, and...more reading.

I've had trouble sleeping lately. During my time as an undergraduate, I really put my body through hell. I didn't eat healthy. I didn't exercise. And I usually went to bed between 1-2 in the morning. As a result, my body got used to this new, and debilitating schedule. Even during my year off from school, I continued going to bed too late. Now, I'm trying to "re-train" my body. I've been trying to go to bed at midnight which to most, still seems too late, but for me it's early. By going to bed at midnight, I can wake up before 11, which is progress. Ideally, I would like to align my internal clock with the normal, outside world and actually go to sleep at a decent hour and wake up at 9 (or earlier if needed). But alas, my efforts are proving more difficult. I can't fall asleep earlier than 1 and when I try, I just lie in bed, wide awake. It's mind-numbingly frustrating. I'm going to try reading in bed (hell, I should just read one of my textbooks!). I know it will take time, but I'm hoping I can get my body to want to SLEEP before midnight because these restless and sleepless nights are killing me. In addition, it probably doesn't help that I have several football fields worth of information in my brain at the moment.

My new sleep-schedule caused my sister to go into freak-out mode last week. She called me around 11pm to chat, which for us, is a normal time to talk, and I didn't answer. She texted me (several times), and I still didn't reply. Reason being, I was in bed and my cell was on silent. I actually got to sleep relatively early that night, but Ash didn't know. She, of course, thought the worst had happened to me. Now that I no longer live at home, she can't call mom or dad to verify my whereabouts. And I'm over 1000 miles away which doesn't help alleviate any stress or concern.

Tomorrow, I plan to blog about my "first day" as a graduate student, but now, I have a date with the sandman.

I want to run in fields, paint the kitchen, and love someone.

2009-08-31T19:45:00.000-04:00

Today I managed to turn finding a store which was only "1.8 miles away" into a 25 minute venture, only to discover, much to my frustration that the store was no longer there. It had moved. So, 20 minutes later, and re-routing my Garmin, I found another one. So, 1.8 miles turned into 45 minutes and a fair amount of shouting at my Garmin (and "recalculating" echoing in my car). She and I have a love-hate relationship. I'm not sure if she should know this or not, but for the most part, YOU CAN'T MAKE LEFT TURNS IN NEW JERSEY! And she's constantly telling me to do just that. Only in cases where a "jughandle" is not possible can you usually make a left turn.

While I was out, I bought some cashmere leg warmers. Definitely something I would never have a use for in Florida.

I think I'm going to keep a collection of pictures of Philly sunsets. On the clear nights, they are some of the most gorgeous sunsets I've ever seen. I get such a wonderful perspective from my 7th floor windows. Skies of purple, reds, and pink. I already have some breathtaking shots.

Completely unrelated, I truly LOVE Imogen Heap. One of my favorite songs ever is, Hide and Seek. A friend once had it as his ring tone for me- perfect. I really *need* their new album, Ellipse. Every song I've listened to from the album is fantastic. I also love her with Frou Frou. I had no idea they were one and the same until recently. Her music takes me away. And I love that. Her voice. The lyrics. Her style. Love. Love. Love.

One of her new songs, Wait It Out:

And sit here cold?
Look, you'll be long gone by then.
And lackluster in dust we lay
'round old magazines.
Fluorescent lighting sets the scene
for all we could and should being
in the one life that we've got.

Today's high was 75. It was wonderful. And cool. Not at all like Florida.

The battle with the heart isn't easily won...

2009-08-31T18:33:00.000-04:00

Prima continues to get better, and better with each release. Truly, they have outdone themselves. I love the detail in these flowers. The layers. The varying elements and textures. And to think, there was a time when all Prima made were simple multi-colored paper flowers that came in milk bottles. They have certainly evolved.

Well, I want them all. Flowers are one of my "scrapbooking essentials." I love to use them in my creations- they add such a beautiful, delicate, and feminine touch. The pinks and purples in these are gorgeous.

Etsy love.

2009-08-30T17:21:00.000-04:00

Etsy has such wonderful talent and creations. I can literally spend hours on that site. In honor of all the talented artists, creators, and collectors, some Etsy love.

So "me."

These necklaces are absolutely gorgeous. Truly, a work of art. I wish I knew the technique involved in making the flowers. I can't afford these lovely creations.

Love worn and weathered vintage finds such as this. Especially in vibrant red.

I heart owls.

This would look great in my kitchen. All my dishes and mugs/glasses are black and white. And accents are red.

I may try and make something like this. Around the holidays.

And in support of my dear friend, Christina, she has some beautiful jewelry and floral creations on Etsy. Here is her site.

All the stars and boulevards ain't close enough for you...

2009-08-26T14:41:00.000-04:00

This is what I get to see each and every night I look out my window. Some nights, it's not as clear as this and the city isn't as visible. This particular night, it was absolutely beautiful. It's probably my favorite feature of my new place- my view to the city lights.

The colors where even more vivid and intense. I'm not sure why, but blogger tends to wash out my pictures.