KLIZ

Going Home

2008-07-07T18:16:00.005-05:00

I'm going home at the end of this week and there are a few things I'm looking forward to (besides the first 2 these are in no particular order):

1) Spending time with the family
2) Waterskiing!!
3) Watching the fireflies from our porch swing
4) The scent of the corn fields
5) The sunsets and being able to see the stars
6) Consuming insane amounts of movie theater popcorn with my sisters
7) UDF and Young's Jersey Dairy (despite the recent diagnosis of lactose intolerance, I will be eating ice cream there - if it hasn't killed me the past 24 years, a little now and then won't kill me now, right?!) And there's nothing better than going to Young's for a strawberry milkshake accompanied by the world's best onion rings after a long day of skiing!
8) Sleeping in my own room
9) Going to the pool
10) Large pancake breakfasts
11) Seeing some old friends

It's safe to say I'm ridiculously excited about going home and think I might burst if the next few days don't go by quickly!

If anyone wants any souvenirs from Buckeye territory, speak now or forever hold your peace :)

I Have Never

2008-06-26T19:58:00.002-05:00

There are a few things I always used in the game I Have Never:

I have never had a bloody nose

I have never been snow skiing

I have never cracked my own knuckles

I have never had stitches

Well, after last week I’ll be limited to the first three. I have now had stitches! Don’t ask me why I used an exclamation point there because it wasn’t a fun or exciting experience. I was running in Central Park and just as I was coming by the fountain on my way home I totally ate it. And I mean totally. I fell and slid. When I looked back to see what on earth had the audacity to get in my way and trip me I didn’t see a thing! Yup, I’m a klutz. My knee was pretty badly banged up with some cuts, but my arm was a complete disaster! One man came over to me with a napkin and said “I promise it’s clean”. I wouldn’t have cared if it weren’t – I needed something besides my shirt (already covered in blood) to put on it. (And, may I just interject here – as I was walking home, dripping blood – mind you, crying my eyes out, only a couple people asked if I was okay…what’s wrong with people?!!)

I don’t know what I was, or wasn’t, thinking when I decided it was okay to go into work after cleaning the wound. It was bad. But, I went to work. After having to change the gauze for a third time I decided I’d better have it looked at. So I called my insurance company and asked for the location of an urgent care clinic. The first two (yes, that’s right, TWO) turned out NOT to be able to do sutures…as you can imagine I was on the verge of a breakdown when I called for the third time. I didn’t care that I was standing in the middle of the street crying on the phone. I finally found a clinic and they were able to help me – after they made me wait 2 hours, that is. Showing the woman the wound didn’t help. And, don’t worry, I had to change the gauze again while I was there because it was still bleeding. According to the doctor, the cut was down to my bone (I hadn’t really wanted to look at it) and everyone kept saying they couldn’t believe I didn’t come in sooner. I can’t believe I didn’t either – I think I was in denial that I’d need stitches. Or in shock (which the doctor said). Or just plain crazy. Take your pick.

But, I’m stitched up now and healing very well. I didn’t actually feel a thing during the stitching, which I appreciated.

I’ve debated putting the photo up or not, because it’s really kind of gross, but I’ve decided to anyway – Maren & Amber (and any other nursing friends) – I figured you’d enjoy it.

Fireflies!

2008-06-16T16:27:00.002-05:00

I love fireflies. I love the magical, whimsical sensation they evoke. Like you've stepped into a world where fairies exist, where wishes come true and where meadows of wildflowers abound.
To me, fireflies are synonymous with summer: With days spent by the pool and experiencing the joy of the hot pavement beneath my feet. With adventures past the fields and into the woods behind our house where we would build forts and tree houses and imagine all sorts of things. With sitting on our porch swing long after the sun had set, listening to the crickets and inhaling deeply to smell the fresh corn scent carried on the soft breeze that danced through the air.
I used to run around barefoot in my yard with a Mason jar and catch them. Not to brag, but I became an expert firefly catcher.
Last night Maria, Liz, Ali and I went for a walk in Riverside Park and I got to see (at catch!) my first firefly of the season! Needless to say, I will be making as many trips to the park as possible to delight in the wonder that fireflies bring!

Bird Watching

2008-06-06T22:14:00.005-05:00

So - do you remember what it was like in First Grade? I thought I did...then I went to my sister's first grade class (she's the teacher) to help with a field trip. My goodness! I had a lot of respect for my sister's job prior to visiting her class - but now I think she's an absolute saint/hero/superwoman! Almost 30 kids with just one teacher? I swear, I've never heard the phrase "teacher! teacher! teacher!" more in my life than I did there - and that was just the 10 minutes BEFORE the bell rang for class to start. Every child wanted to be the center of attention. And they were all so adorable! And of course, she assigned me the most interesting ones to look after during the field trip to the aviary. Here are just a few highlights from the day:

- Telling Andrew to stop chasing the poor peacock
- Telling Andrew to stop climbing the fences
- Basically telling Andrew to stop doing whatever he was doing because it would more than likely result in an injury to himself/others/the birds
- Laughing hysterically at anything Brendan said. For example: One of the girls forgot her lunch at home and started crying. Since she lived nearby, she asked if she could run home and get it. Brendan's response to this was: "What's the big deal? Why is every body worried? It's not like there's no food left in the world. Jeez. She can get food here. Would everybody just calm down?" And he has the cutest voice too.
- Trying to find all the kids' shoes after they set them down on the playground and had no recollection of where
- One girl having blisters and crying and then suddenly watching all the girls develop blisters
- Watching the video of their class musical performance
- Remembering what First Grade was like

The next day we built boats in class and made them float in bins of water - I'll let your imagination run with how messy the place become. Chances are, it's not wild enough to picture how messy it really was!

Here are some pictures...the close-up of the little blond boy is Andrew...

Andrew chasing the peacock

I'm Moving to Old Lyme...

2008-05-22T09:12:00.006-05:00

I’m obsessed with the city, but every once in a while I need to escape. I need to walk on green grass and breathe fresh air. But when you grow up with this (see image below) being your back yard can you blame me? I’m really a country girl at heart.

This past weekend I went to New Haven (technically Old Lyme), CT to visit some family friends. Mike and Brian came down from Boston as well and we had a fantastic and rejuvenating weekend. We’re already planning a trip back it was so wonderful!!

I took the train up Friday night and got off at the Metro North Old Saybrook stop. I met my friends and the boys there. As I’m sure most of you know, it’s unseasonably chilly – that night was cool with a blanket of misty rain that rested over everything like a deep sleep. This made it the perfect night for comforting food. So, what did we have? Pizza! We started with a delicious, crispy salad of romaine, fresh garden tomatoes and mushrooms, fresh parmesan and a house olive oil, balsamic dressing. I would have been happy with just the salad! But then came the pizza and it was wonderful! We had a chicken cacciatore, a Bacon, broccoli and tomato and a pesto with sautéed mushrooms (which was my favorite). Yum!

My friends’ place is idyllic – a bit of heaven on earth. Seriously…it’s the perfect retreat! We slept in on Saturday and when I woke up in my room upstairs I felt like Anne of Green Gables…they live in one of the oldest houses in Old Saybrook and it’s beyond charming. They’ve done a wonderful job decorating it! I woke up to the sound of birds chirping!! How cliché yet perfect is that?! And, call me ridiculous, but I was so excited about the fact that I looked out my window and saw a lush, vibrantly green tree! SO much better than an apartment building. Their yard is amazing!
Breakfast consisted of homemade oatmeal (no, she didn’t grow the oats, but what I mean is that it wasn’t instant…), fresh, warm bagels with cream cheese tomatoes and onions. The perfect start to the morning!

Then the boys and I did a little touring. We went to the beach!!! I took my shoes off and walked around barefoot. I could have died happy at that point. There’s something so liberating about walking barefoot on a beach. (Brian has all those pictures, so I'll have to wait to post them until he sends them to me...)

We drove through the old towns, went to a charming book place called the Book Barn (where I wanted to buy everything!) and saw a lighthouse where we shot pictures despite the fact that we weren’t supposed to. Oops :)

Lunch consisted of ice cream from the Old Lyme Ice Cream Shop (hey, it’s dairy, right?!) I had black cherry chocolate chunk. So you see - I even had a serving of fruit in there!

We went to the Bee & Thistle Inn (to be re-visited later) and sat down by the water on these three chairs...

Aren't you jealous? :)

Then we went back to my friends’ house and learned how to play Boules (the French version of lawn bowling) and now I’m slightly addicted! The boys were actually very good…I, however, need some practice. But we had a great time playing two rounds before dinner.

Did I mention that my friend is a food critic and an EXCELLENT chef? We have Caesar salad with freshly-grated cheese and homemade croutons, pasta with Bolognese sauce and warm bread straight from the oven.

For dessert we went to the Bee & Thistle Inn (owned by their friends) and let me tell you – this is everything every inn out there should aspire to become!
We were treated to the following:
Lemon custard cake with fresh berries and cream
Chocolate pot de crème with fresh whipped cream
Phyllocinni (Phyllo dough shredded, brushed with butter and sugar then baked) ice cream sandwiches with warm strawberry rhubarb compote and vanilla ice cream.
Um…hello!! It doesn’t get any better than that!

Basically, the weekend was perfect!

The results are in...

2008-05-19T16:15:00.002-05:00

(well, half of them anyway...)

That's a "NO" on the avocado and lima beans and a half and half on the alfredo sauce...I don't hate it anymore, but I'm not sure it will ever be my first choice at a restaurant...

I still haven't been able to bring myself to eat cottage cheese...that was by far my least favorite. And I haven't seen any cordial cherries, so maybe I'm off the hook :)

Grown Up Tastes???

2008-05-09T08:31:00.007-05:00

So you know how you’re often told when you’re little that your tastes will mature? And how your mom uses that as the reason you need to keep eating things you don’t like – because one day your “tastes will mature and you’ll like them”…I never understood that. Why force yourself to tolerate something? Chances are you never really will enjoy it, but rather just numb yourself to the taste so your gag reflex no longer kicks in. There are a few things I hated as a kid that I bet I’d dislike just as much today, despite my oh-so-mature nature :) haha.

For example:
Lima beans

Avocado

Alfredo sauce

Cottage cheese

and

Cordial Cherries

I'm known in my family for knowing exactly what I do and do not like, and being very specific with my tastes. Just go to a restaurant with me once and you'll probably know what I'm talking about. Sometimes I feel badly for the servers when I ask them how a sauce is prepared or if I can make certain alterations/substitutions (sadly, that doesn't stop me from asking…oops :) …I apologize to those who find this annoying. I promise I'm not really that bad!).
I've decided to see if my tastes really have matured or if I still don't like any of the aforementioned things. So within the next week or two I'm going to try them and return with you the results…

Now, as it’s not the holiday season, does anyone know where I can find cordial cherries? :)

Vita e Bella

2008-05-07T10:23:00.000-05:00

So Liz and I have both been in the mood for a good tear-jerker for the past few weeks. What can we say? We’re girls. We need that every once in a while. We had g-chat conversations about the perfect one. There were some great contenders: Stepmom, The Painted Veil, A Walk to Remember, Finding Neverland, My Girl (remember when you were 12?!!)…but in the end we thought Life is Beautiful would be a good choice. Well, after putting it off for a while and then not having it the night we wanted to watch it, I decided to order it from Amazon.com. (Love them, by the way, a total one-stop-shop!)…
Yesterday I got a wonderful email alerting me to the fact that my box had been delivered…Of course I had to g-chat Liz right away! We both agreed that it couldn’t have come on a more opportune day and decided to watch it that night. It was wonderfully poignant…I laughed, I cried…was inspired and moved. It’s such a beautiful movie!! And I love Roberto Benigni. He’s brilliant.
This is an unforgettable movie that truly demonstrates life, love and the power of the human spirit. (wow, I should write movie tag lines!! Haha) Watch it. You’ll love it!

April showers...

2008-04-29T21:36:00.016-05:00

Peonies are my favorite flower (Followed closely by lilacs, lilies and daisies). I love the way they look, the way they smell, and the fond memories I have the peony bushes we had in my yard when I was little (I always hid behind them - predictable? Yes. But can you blame me? They're so pretty!) I was so excited to see that they are now available at all the florist shops! It really did brighten my day/week...aren't flowers wonderful?

This lovely bouquet now resides in my apartment. I have to resist the urge to carry it around with me (a la "You've Got Mail" style) everywhere I go!

If this is what all the rain we've received of late brings, then I guess I'm okay with it...I guess...

Here's hoping for even more flowers in May (wink, wink guys...)

Full Circle and An Invitation

2008-04-24T10:53:00.002-05:00

Edmund:
Th’ hast spoken right, ‘tis true.
The wheel is come full circle, I am here.
(Kind Leer Act 5, scene 3)

"Full circle" is Edmund's coinage, and he employs a now-rare meaning of "full": "complete." In essence, Edmund's use of "full circle" is close to what I’m trying to get at (though, he’s talking about the inevitable workings of fate and I’m talking about blogging…but work with me here…) — that once someone's actions have passed through phases only to return to their starting point…

Since my last post I’ve gone through phases and fits, both hilarious and enlightening experiences and now I can say, as Edmund, “I am here”. I’m putting an end to my blogging moratorium. The reason for this? Basically, there was a little prodding from some people (wink wink)…and maybe it’s an act of hope that I’ll have a lot of interesting things to write about this summer…who knows, but here I am…

A recap of the past 5 or so months would be unrealistic, but I’m sure there will be stories and photos that pop up from time to time…but, to kick it all off, I do have a funny little story to start it off again…

I was walking home and thoroughly enjoying the nice weather (let me rephrase that – GORGEOUS, made-for-a-movie-weather) and had turned down 73rd street. There was a guy approaching me who wasn’t all that hard on the eyes (hehe)…tall, dark hair and he pulled off his 5 o’clock shadow very well….he said hello so I returned the greeting and kept walking. From behind me I hear “Have a nice day”. Feeling very happy because of the spring weather I decide to turn around and tell him that I hope he has a nice evening as well. I turn to go again and he keeps talking! He was walking into the NY Sports Club and told me that if I ever wanted to come in, that it was on him (but I don’t know if he worked there because he didn’t have on a uniform or anything, just regular work-out clothes…do the employees change there??)…I smiled and said thank you and turned again to go. He then introduced himself and told me his name. Unable to resist I told him mine, smiled and said goodbye. This is one time I actually didn’t give out my phone number or email…for previous readers of this blog, you may be well aware that I have a bad habit of doing so and it’s resulted in some awkward/borderline scary situations…but he was so cute I’m kind of thinking it might have been worth the risk…(insert sigh here)…But maybe I’ll see him again some time...maybe…

New York, A Place Where You Can Truly Have It All...

2007-11-06T17:18:00.001-05:00

I think the photo says it all:

Forbidden Romance

2007-10-10T20:52:00.000-05:00

I'm a sucker for this kind of stuff. Loving from afar. Flirtations. That kind of thing. It's wonderfully painful in a way.
I think that's why my two new crushes stem from two shows that deal with exactly that...forbidden romance.
Pushing Daisies and Moonlight. I'm in love with Ned and Mick St.John!! I'm hooked, sucked in and committed to watching these shows. Sigh.

But, let's be honest, as great as forbidden love is, I want there to be a good resolution, I only accept happily ever after...

Watch these shows!!!!

ps - the blog is still under construction...I'm working on a new design...

UNDER CONSTRUCTION

2007-10-05T13:00:00.000-05:00

Please pardon our appearance while we work to improve your blogging experience...

Eavesdrop? Moi?

2007-10-02T12:59:00.001-05:00

So, I’m really big into eavesdropping on people’s conversations when I’m out in public. I know, I know, probably not the most polite thing to do, but it’s just hilarious sometimes. Like the time I was in the nail salon and overheard this girl telling her friend why she was better off without this guy:

“He was so boring anyway, you want someone who has personality…I mean, at least someone with a pulse!”

Seriously? A pulse. It was just the way she said it. I’ll admit that a small burst of laughter escaped my lips, but I don’t think she noticed…

And then I was in the break room making what would be one of three cups of hot cocoa and just to smile at the conversation I overheard. Two of the most flamboyant women in the office were speaking half in English, half in Spanish. I just got the biggest kick out of the inflection in their voices (and this post really won’t do it justice). If only it wouldn’t have been rude to turn around and see if their faces matched the lilt…

Woman A: I know I couldn’t believe ….Spanish, Spanish, Spanish, Spanish….do you see what I’m saying?
Woman B: Spanish, Spanish, Spanish…it’s like he just…Spanish, Spanish, Spanish,… just annoying. And I try to tell him.
Woman A: You just have to put your foot down. That’s what I did…Spanish, Spanish, Spanish… And then he’ll just have to understand.
…

The conversation went on like this and then I left. If only the best parts hadn’t been in Spanish!

I LOVE FALL!!!

2007-09-27T12:42:00.000-05:00

Autumn is by far my favorite season. It’s inherently nostalgic, the breezes carry the promise of upcoming holidays and family time…it’s romantic and allows you to take one last deep breath of wonderfulness before winter hits. Here are a few more reasons why I love this season:

1. The Weather! You can’t beat it. You don’t need to be wrapped to the point of immobility in heavy coats, scarves, multiple pairs of socks, etc…but it’s deliciously cool outside and you can curl up in blankets or fun sweaters while sipping hot cocoa or warm apple cider.
2. Leaves. They change colors. They make an enticing crunching/crackling noise when you walk on them. They rustle when blown in the wind. A true feast for the eyes and ears. And did I mention that they’re fun to jump in? We used to have huge leaf piles and I really enjoyed jumping in them…watch out for random sticks though…ouch!

3. Pumpkin patches. Do you remember taking trips there when you were in kindergarten? I sure do. I would try to find the largest, most perfect pumpkin out there only to realize that I couldn’t carry it so would have to settle on one with more character. Now I want to go out and buy a pumpkin.

3a.Pumpkins in general. For decorating. For eating (pumpkin pie…hello! And if you don’t already know, Kristan makes a wide variety of pumpkin treats that are out of this world!!). For carving. OH, and I’m seriously obsessed with these guys:

I went to target last night and they were on sale…let’s just say my self-control flew out the door in the Halloween candy aisle.
4. Autumn decorations. Enough said.
5. Just all the memories that come with fall: the first day of school. Sitting out on my porch swing. New all wardrobes. The joys of wearing a hat and gloves for the first time before you remember how burdensome they can be :)

Where Did These Come From?

2007-09-21T14:40:00.000-05:00

So, when the employees at 1221 Avenue of the Americas (at least my floor) arrived to work on Monday, they were greeted with the addition of several items:

Wall hand sanitizer dispensers. There are two in each bathroom and several more spread throughout the floor (like in the kitchen area, etc.) Not too exciting but I thought it was a little quirky...the best part was listening to various reactions. You'd think they'd installed spy screens the way everyone was carrying on...

It Just Goes To Show You

2007-09-19T20:48:00.000-05:00

Okay, first of all, a shout out to my wonderful father who always told me that life is full of things you don't want to do but have to anyway and that the experiences you look forward to least can turn out to be the greatest. Case in point...tonight.

I found out about this, in essence, networking event after work where I'd have the opportunity to meet some people in magazines and do a little schmoozing (is that even how you spell that?) I'm not usually into that kind of thing because I'm shy by nature and I just don't like to appear fake as I think so many people do when trying to "network". But I decided to follow my dad's advice. Well, when I got there I met a few people and it was all well and good. The Ad Director of Cosmo actually gave me some great advice, which I intend to put into practice immediately...

Well, toward the end of the evening I started talking with two girls around my age and they invited me to go to this Martha Stewart party with them. I figured "why not" so we jumped in a cab and headed down there. The exterior of the building was a little sketchy and I was kind of wondering what I had gotten myself into.

After getting off the elevator on the top floor we walked up the stairs to the roof. Everything up to now had been sparse and I was thinking we had missed the good part of the party (it apparently ended around 9:00...weird). But the roof was...beyond words! First of all, you can't beat this weather we're having right now. We were right by the water and had a breathtaking view of the Hudson and surrounding sights. I was in awe. It's the sort of view people write poems and songs about. The tables were decorated with gorgeous orchid bouquets (which, one of the managers gave me TWO to take home...not one...two!!) One table had a decorate your own cupcake station. There were three kinds of buttercream to choose from and so many toppings. It was hard to keep them elegant (as they appeared in the pictures...) and I felt like a kid that wanted to pile it mile-high with every topping...but I refrained. There was apple crisp and passed hors d'oeuvres.

Oh! And there was a station where the lady who wrote "Sex, Lies and Handwriting" (I think that's the name of it) was there to analyze everyone's handwriting...I thought that was really neat! It was interesting to hear what she said about me. I wish I had a picture to show you, but for some reason my camera wouldn't turn on (I really hope it's not broken) so I'll have to put them up when one of the girls I went with emails it to me. The event was great and I got to talk with some really interesting people.

HA! And EVEN BETTER...I'm telling you, cab drivers in this city love me. I was on the way home and realized that I wouldn't have enough cash to cover the ride home! So I told the cab driver that I'd either need to stop at an ATM or get out because I was out of money. Well, he told me not to worry about the money and I said no, that I wanted to pay him. And he said "what, you think a cab driver only interested in money? A nice girl like you and I can't drive you home? If you don't have no money, you don't have no money. It's okay"...
Thank goodness I only ended up being a dollar short or I would have felt terrible. But at least I didn't give my email to this one! ha.

And that is the story of my night. Just goes to show you that a lame event can turn into one of the best evenings!

2002

2007-09-17T08:24:00.000-05:00

So, on Friday I received a random email from the IT Office at BYU, with part below:

"...Currently, however, we are unsure of what internet bill you are referring to. We are currently not charging for internet service if you are visiting the campus. If you would like to know about a bill, you can contact student accounts at (801) 422-4104. If there are other problems that we can help you resolve, please contact our office again."

Upon asking for clarification (especially since I haven't been a student since 2004) I received the following explanation:

"We are sorry for the confusion. It appears that an email that you sent in 2002 appeared in our inbox this morning. We are not sure how or why this happened. We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused you. Thank you for making us aware of this issue."

2002...how random!

Um...

2007-09-14T16:00:00.000-05:00

Did anyone know that these M&M flavors existed? I'm now on a mission to find them...

All That Razz: Creamy white chocolate center surrounded by milk chocolate and a raspberry-flavored candy shell.

Eat, Drink & Be Cherry: Creamy white chocolate center surrounded by milk chocolate and a black cherry-flavored candy shell.

A Day At The Peach: Creamy white chocolate center surrounded by milk chocolate and a peach-flavored candy shell.

Orange-U-Glad: Creamy white chocolate center surrounded by milk chocolate and an orange-flavored candy shell.

AlmonDee-Licious: Almond surrounded by creamy white chocolate and a candy shell.

Mint Condition: Creamy white chocolate center surrounded by milk chocolate and a mint-flavored candy shell.

Nut What You Think: Peanut surrounded by creamy white chocolate and a candy shell
Cookie Mintster: Crispy center surrounded by dark chocolate and a mint-flavored speckled candy shell.

He's Baaaack

2007-09-12T14:24:00.000-05:00

I was actually thinking that I hadn't heard from the cab driver in quite a while...but yesterday I got an email from him.

Hi
How u doing
I just want to send u a hi
I hope u success in u life

At least some guy out there is thinking of me :)

I Have a Confession

2007-09-11T18:38:00.000-05:00

Today when my iTunes (which I often listen to 'all songs' in random mode) went to a Christmas song, I didn't skip it. In fact, I even went to my Christmas playlist.
(insert gasp here).
Try not to judge too harshly :)

Magic 8

2007-08-31T12:12:00.000-05:00

In response to Michele's blog, which is in response to Nat's, I too am doing the list of 8's. I have to say this was a little harder than anticipated and I cheated a little (you'll see where). I also added a misc category of some random favorites...so, here you go:

All of these are in no particular order, by the way (and, I typed this up quickly without proof reading it, so please forgive any errors)...

8 Things I'm passionate about:
1. Spending quality time with my family
2. Waterskiing
3. Cooking
4. Journal writing
5. Life and making the most of the seemingly simple things
6. Figuring out the perfect gift/gifts to get people for Christmas, birthdays, just because, etc.
7. The Church
8. Noticing small details about people, places, events...

8 Things I would like to do/accomplish before I die:
1. Travel the globe
2. Write a book and have it published (it would also be nice if it were on the best-seller list, but I won't get carried away....)
3. Marry in the temple and raise a family
4. Let charity/love govern my life/character
5. Learn a second language
6. Be on the Amazing Race
7. Keep a goldfish alive for more than two months (may we please pause for a moment of silence for poor little Sophie...thanks)
8. Have a beautiful garden

8 Things I say often:
1. "I know, right?"
2. "I mean, let's be honest..."
3. "Seriously?"
4. "Dude, that's lame"
5. "Ridiculous"
6. "Brilliant!"
7. "This is why I keep you around..."
8. "No, sorry, I'm not Russian, I'm from Ohio" (if you don't know me well, this one could require a little explanation...)

8 Books I"ve read recently:
1. Currently reading Anna Karenina
2. Twilight
3. The Kite Runner
4. The Best of Everything
5. East of Eden
6. The Time Traveler's Wife
7. The Namesake
8. The Bombshell Manual of Style (haha, look out everyone!)

8 Misc Favorites:
1. Flowers (PEONIES!, all kinds of lilies, lilacs, daisies)
2. Strawberries
3. Good music
4. Vacations
5. Homemade cookies on a Sunday afternoon
6. Going on walks
7. Autumn
8. Singing at the top of my lungs

8 songs I could listen to over and over:
1. Kiss Me
2. Somewhere Only We Know (and so many other Keane songs)
3. Lovefool
4. Yo Soshia Suma
5. Rally
6. Lost (and pretty much any Michael Buble song)
7. Chasing Cars
8. Trolley Wood (love Eisley!)

8 Characteristics I look for in a friend:
1. Kindness
2. Sincerity
3. Sense of humor
4. Passion for life
5. Individuality
6. Dependibility
7. Confident and capable
8. Common sense

8 things I've learned in the past year:
1. I've always known it but I just become more aware each day how amazing my parents are (and my siblings too)!
2. It's okay to slow down once in a while
3. I can't do everything, nor do I know everything
4. It's hit me again just how much I enjoy people
5. While I wasn't sure of this a few months ago, I really do love my job
6. How happy we are really does depend on the attitude/outlook we decide to adopt
7. If you pray and ask the Lord how you can improve, He will most certainly tell you (in a kind way, of course)
8. I love my life!

And, there you have it.

Obsessions

2007-08-30T16:19:00.000-05:00

Top 10 Obsessions right now (in no particular order):
1. Crabtree & Evelyn's Lavendar and Rosewater scents
2. Anna Karenina (granted, I'm only 50 pages into a 10,000 page book, but I love it!)
3. Lemonade
4. The Planters Peanuts from the vending machine at work. I cannot tell you how many packs I've purchased over the past two weeks! Ridiculous.
5. Facebook. After practically ignoring it for months, I'm really becoming quite addicted
6. Making movies (e.g. Kristan's birthday movie)....so much fun but the perfectionist in me really comes out and I obsess over the smallest details
7. t.A.T.u - I can't get enough of them and the songs are great to listen to while running
8. My navy blue cut-off sweatpant shorts. I seriously (no laughing) think at work about going home and putting them on. So comfortable
9. The weather! Autumn is, hands down, my favorite season
10. Emailing back and forth with my 11-year-old sister. She's such a crazy cat. I should post some because they're so hilarious.
11...okay, okay, I know I said 10, but the Zac Efron dance from High School Musical 2 (if you've seen it you know what I'm talking about, if not, stop over...we still have it on the dvr because it makes me laugh so much)...Hilarious!

Did You Miss Me?

2007-08-26T19:58:00.001-05:00

Okay, so it's been soooooooo long I'm sure most people have stopped checking my blog. But I thought I would post a few pictures from my trip to Ohio. My entire family was home and it was wonderful to see them! We went to the lake for a few days and the waterskiing was amazing. Seriously, the lake was like the most perfect sheet of glass you've ever seen. My favorite was waking up early and going skiing with only the hard-core skiers in my family (my dad, brother and little sister Rach). There's something magical about that coveted first run...before things seem to have woken up and you're seeing everything in its natural, unadulterated state. I imagine that is what heaven will be like.

I love Ohio, not that I want to move back or anything, but that place will always pull slightly on my heartstrings. And I was home during one of my favorite times. Our house is out in the country surrounded by corn and soy bean fields. I love sitting out on our porch swing in the summer when the air just seems to linger on your skin as the sun goes down. The faint warm breeze carries with it the scent of ripenening corn and sweet wildflowers and I can just sit for hours watching the fireflies, listening to the crickets and talking with my family. I'm telling you...heaven.

He's Ladies' Choice

2007-08-02T16:47:00.001-05:00

"I don't come cheap but the kisses come free"...I think I'm going to make that my new personal motto :)

And Miles to Go...(before this post ends)

2007-08-01T18:19:00.000-05:00

Okay, this is going to be a rather long post (or series...) because I've seriously neglected my poor little blog. So, here for: Dancing around in the fountains, my trip to Hilton Head with the amazing Brooks family and other fun stories.

First and foremost: Hilton Head.

Kristan picked up on my many hints (consisting of me screaming "I want to come!" and other subtle phrases) of letting me tag along to Hilton Head and I was able to spend several amazing days at the beach with her family. She has already blogged about our three-hour-long "She's The Man" Scene It game so please refer to her blog if you would like details. I still maintain that we should have won. Especially considering that the actual soccer kick was not a bicycle or whatever it was Kelli said it was but was, in fact, a volley...sheesh people, get your soccer moves straight. Major props go out to Caisa though for the AH-mazing job she did at creating the game! She could make her millions marketing that thing.

So, highlights? Here are the Top 10 (in no particular order)

1. The beach (And may I just stop here and mention the fabulous weather we had! I mean, I put in an order for it, but the weather man went above and beyond! It was sunny up until we left)
2. She's The Man Scene It...well, in all actuality, it was the events/trash talking/wrestling leading up to the event that I enjoyed most.
3. Watching the Brooks family interact. Love them all! (and as a 3b. let me just add getting to meet the people I've heard so many stories about)
4. The endless supply of Crystal Light, Oreos and other delicious treats.
5. Watching Kristan in her excitement over Key Lime Pie ice cream and sparklers...
6. Their theater...um...can we all pose for a moment of silence in honor of the wonderfulness that is their home theater?.....
7. Singing to ridiculous songs in the car on the way from Hilton Head to Atlanta
8. The laundry fairy...she got a spot out of my blue polo dress...I sure wish we had one of those in NY!
9. Eating at Moe's...I love that place
10. The knowledge that even though a tie was declared that Kristan and I actually won that She's the Man game. Hehe.

And here are a few photos for your viewing pleasure:

_________________

Okay, is not this the smallest mouse you've ever seen? I saw it on the steps outside and couldn't help but take a picture. It's amazing how the simple act of moving a creature such as this from outside into my apartment turns it from tiny and cute to a villain that must be eliminated...

_________________

So, one day while waiting for Kristan to escape work, Holly, Cassie and I had a little fun playing in the fountains. Oh! And that reminds me of a great story. So, the three of us are walking toward the river (from Times Square)...thenI hear "Where are you from?" And I turn to look at the guy who has suddenly appeard to my left. "Oh..uh, Ohio" I say.
"Oh, that's too far"
"To far for what?"
"Well, I saw your dress and I think you're beautiful. I was hoping you'd give me your number"
"Oh, yeah, Ohio is too far"
"But, maybe you give me your number anyway?"
"Um, I don't think so, I'm sorry...I don't think it would help"
"Could I have your number anyway? Who knows, maybe one day I'll marry you" (um, yeah right...I'm definitely not giving you my number after that last sentene buddy...)
"I just don't think it's a good idea. But maybe I'll run into you again sometime...have a great day".

Crazy right? I seriously don't know what I do to attract these guys! And then as we're crossing the street a guy leans out of the car and calls out to me "You beautiful Russian girl" I am seriously considering getting "I'm Not Russian" put on my forehead...This seriously happens to me ALL the time. I'm still of the opinion that it's one big prank against me.

Anyway, so the three of us end up dancing around in the fountains...here are some pictures that I love:

Give a warm welcome...

2007-07-27T09:20:00.000-05:00

Say hello to my new friend:

I bought her last weekend and think I'm in love! Okay, maybe it's going a little too far to declare love for an inanimate object, but if it's not love, it closely resembles it. Who knows, maybe now I'll finally do something about my aspirations to become a writer...

I contemplated getting her in pink, but I think that could have been going a little too far...then again, maybe not

Gravity

2007-07-23T15:14:00.001-05:00

I have been in love with this song lately (well, to be quite honest, I'm pretty much obsessed with all her music righ now...). This is the best video I could find...Hope you enjoy!

Good News!

2007-07-17T09:09:00.000-05:00

Now get this...While perusing the discounts I get through work (WHY didn't I take advantage of these sooner? I get so many...hotels, theater, movies, restaurants, etc...) I stumbled upon this: I can get a 15% discount on match.com. Score. Commence operation soul mate :)

...I hope that all of you know I'm kidding...

Mr. Postman

2007-07-10T11:45:00.000-05:00

News Flash:
I forgot to mention that about a week or two ago our mailman finally started calling me by my proper name instead of "Steffi girl" (the nickname he gave me for Stephanie, which he has called me since I started here a year ago).

It's rather funny because every time he comes up we always have the same conversation. How are you Karen/Steffi girl?
I love your hair, you did your hair just for me, didn't you?
Your flowers are so lovely, but then again, you deserve them.
You always look so beautiful; and that's such a lovely color on you.

Well, today he was dropping off a special package for Barbara on my floor and as he sat it down on her desk he said "Thank you for giving me a reason to come up and see Karen".

It's nice to have a friend :)

2007-07-09T16:13:00.000-05:00

So, did I ever report on my Fourth of July?
Some of us decided to go up to Tarrytown for some good old small-town charm…there was a festival up there that included:

INDEPENDENCE DAY 1856, 10am-5pm, Washington Irving's Sunnyside, 89 West Sunnyside Lane, Tarrytown. Plan for a full day of live entertainment including dramatic presentations, rousing speeches, period music, and traditional country dancing for everyone. Play "Town Ball" (19th-century baseball) with our costumed guides. Enjoy house tours and ice cream making demonstrations throughout the day. Bring a picnic or buy food in the Courtyard Café.

I’ll tell you though, the first view off the train was not promising:

Luckily, a cab took us to a much more desirable location:

So we had the pleasure of seeing people dressed in period costumes…we were warned against the evils of alcohol and invited to sing a long to My Country Tis of Thee and Yankee Doodle Dandy (sidebar: do you know all the verses to that song? There are so many! And we didn’t even sing the “stuck a feather in his hat and called it macaroni” verse I knew!)…it was a riot. We toured Washington Irving’s home. I think one of my favorite moments was sitting on the lawn after the tour…the country dancing had just ended and the crowd cleared….Karen, Mary, Cassie and I just sat on the grass and listened to the band play a few cool down songs. It was so peaceful. We were under a tree and the scent of fresh grass and dew permeated the air. I love sitting on lawns, it always takes me back to my childhood. It’s rather unfortunate that the train goes by so often…the tracks are extremely close and it’s very loud.

This tree was around during the Revolutionary War, which I thought was kind of cool:

We met up with Paul and his group at some little spot called “Hastings on the Hudson” he found on one of his Sunday evening drives up there. How he found it I don’t know, but I’m glad he did. Behind an amiable little restaurant and it’s wonderfully landscaped patio is a quaint little spot of grass next to the water. I hesitate to call it a park, but that’s basically what it is…there’s a little play area and a few spots for barbequing. We sat on blankets and enjoyed a few snacks, commenting on how drinking out of glass bottles always makes one feel a bit rebellious. We had some of the kids take some group shots…the kid with my camera had a little too much fun I think:
Proof that we weren't being all that rebellious (it was Stewart's Root Beer):

It was hilarious because Hannah, this little yet no-so at the same time girl came up and, without any inhibition, asked us for some pizza. There wasn’t any left in the large box and Paul told her so…to which she replied “no, some of that pizza” and pointed to Sam, who had an entire piece in his had. He quickly answered that she could have some of his crust. Hannah sent him the meanest look, I though she was going to charge him (and, I’m not really sure who would have come out victorious: Sam or Hannah…ha!)…it was hilarious. Before leaving she made sure to whip around and tell us “that was mean”…haha. It started to rain so we left. Now, did I go watch the fireworks like every other American? Nope. Waiting out in the rain hoping it would clear just didn’t appeal to me. I went to get a massage and finished the evening with Patsy’s and a movie over at Cassie’s apartment…and I wouldn’t have had it any other way. God Bless America.

I Like White Pants and I Cannot Lie...

2007-07-05T10:08:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I was out along the water in Riverside park, now, mind you, I had just gotten up, thrown on the first decently clean clothes I could find, wiped the remaining mascara from under my eyes (well, most of it anyway) and headed out.

So, I’m going along, minding my own business when this guy on a bike stops in front of me quickly and says “Can I give you my card? I’m a photographer. Call me if you ever want to do any body work”. He takes off and I’m left stunned thinking “Did that really just happen?”. I mean, you should have seen me…what guy in his right mind picks up a girl that looks like I did right here.? Seriously. I mean, I was wearing white pants and everything, and we KNOW that those aren’t flattering. And, come on, that greasy hair and left-over eye makeup certainly didn’t enhance my looks any. And I'm sure I had mornign breath to boot! This guy must have been crazy. Maybe he stopped in front of the wrong girl…

Like Clockwork

2007-07-03T12:49:00.001-05:00

Yes, when I checked my email this week there were TWO more emails from the cab driver. Seriously out of control!

Public Speaking

2007-06-28T12:52:00.000-05:00

So, have I mentioned that I have to take a speech course for work? Well, I do. And I gave my first speech (my 'icebreaker') today. Here is a rough outline of the speech...I can't remember exactly what I said, but this is the basic idea...
The purpose of the speech was to introduce yourself to the group...so, here I am:

On January 21, 1984 I was born in a small hospital in Troy, Ohio. I arrived before the doctor had a chance to put his second glove on – and some would argue that I’ve been going full-speed ever since.

When it was time to take me home, my parents drove less than 5 miles to the house on 876 Hickory Lane that I would live in for the next 8 years before moving to our new house less than 5 miles from there.

Troy, Ohio is a pretty small place. The kind of small town where the lady who owns the penny candy shop knows you personally and will occasionally slip a few extra candies into your bag if you’ve been good. The kind of small place you see on movies with soda shops and spectacle-wearing librarians that you think haven’t existed since the 50’s. Well, I’m living proof that they do. Growing up there has really shaped who I am, and is part of the reason I still love sun dresses, homemade chocolate chip cookies on Sunday afternoon and Shirley Temple movies.

My summers were spent by the pool eating frozen candy bars and relishing the way the hot pavement felt beneath my wet feet as I ran with the other children – completely ignoring the reprimands from the lifeguards.

I’ll never forget the way the heat lingered on my skin as I sat outside on our porch watching the sun go down and the fireflies frolic among the sprouting fields. Nor the way the scent of the corn floated wistfully and mixed with the freshly cut grass as crickets chirped and the warm breeze drifted aimlessly.

My four siblings and I would build forts and climb trees; we’d have squirt gun fights and run through the sprinklers in our lawn stopping only to eat a few slices of watermelon before picking up our play again.

In the summer my family would do one of my favorite things – we’d take our boat to the lake several times a week for an evening of waterskiing – slalom, of course. I first learned when I was 7 or 8 years old and have been passionate about it ever since. The evenings concluded with homemade ice cream from Young’s Jersey Dairy in Youngstown, Ohio –which is hands down the best ice cream you will ever taste in your life…creamy and fresh. And there’s just something about the combination of that ice ream with the big, thick onion rings that would lull us kids to sleep as we drove home. We’d wake up upon arriving at our house and sleep-walk to our beds where we’d fall into a heavy, contented sleep.

Another thing I looked forward to immensely was our town’s Strawberry Festival because I love strawberries. When I was little, we would go pick strawberries from the fields and my parents always joke that they always felt like they should pay for an extra bushel because I would eat just as many as I picked and my pinafore would be stained with the juice from the berries I had thoroughly enjoyed. That being said, it’s easy to see why I loved the strawberry festival so much…how could I not when it was centered around one of my favorite things? There was strawberry shortcake, strawberry popcorn, strawberry burritos, freshly-squeezed strawberry lemonade, strawberry ice cream…I was always in heaven and never knew quite what to do with myself.

Yes, summers in Ohio are wonderful, which is why I’m looking forward to my trip home with eager anticipation. Now, I may be too old to run around the pool and my metabolism too slow to eat frozen candy bars all day, but I can still enjoy the fresh strawberries…and so can you…I hope you’ll take some and enjoy them as much as I.

Oh, Brother!

2007-06-26T09:36:00.000-05:00

My brother arrived Thursday night; hot and sweaty, not used to the stifling atmosphere more affectionately known as our subway, and I was so glad to see him. We’re pretty close. Ha, but let me tell you, the boy can pack! He was here from Thursday to Tuesday and he brought a rollaboard, one of those big suit carriers and a big messenger bag…I do not profess to be a light packer, but even I was surprised.

On Thursday we just hung out, picked up some Chinese food and chilled at my apartment. Friday night we went to the Village Vanguard. I really enjoyed it! It’s a small little venue that has been graced by some of the greatest names in jazz. We heard “Warmdaddy” Wessell Anderson Quartet (with Aaron Diehl, Kengo Nakamura, Jaz Sawyer). I love live music and I love it in small settings, so this was great. I think I loved it even more because this is one of my dad’s favorite places (he is a HUGE jazz fan) so he was so excited for us to go…I don’t know, that just kind of added to the experience.

Saturday we went to brunch at, where else? Normas in Le Parker Meridien. I love this place and will continue to come back.

Then we wandered around a street fair on 6th. James bought a white belt, modeled in the picture below, haha: Saturday night I had an event. OH MY GOODNESS. This was one of my favorite things ever; by far my favorite work event ever. First of all, I had to rent a car. I was scared out of my mind at the idea of driving there; but at the same time excited because I have been wanting to drive a car for a while…there’s something liberating about driving I think. But, we got caught in some ridiculous traffic unfortunately, and somehow, creeping along just doesn’t have the same exhilarating effect as speeding…hmmm…go figure. But, we made it there in time. We checked in and proceeded to the cocktail tent for a little mingling before dinner. There was a lady in a strapless pink gown with a white fur sable who I really wanted James to go talk to/dance with later in the evening – she just looked like SUCH a character! But she disappeared after the concert so he couldn’t ask her to dance. That could be a good thing because she probably would have tried to take her home with him. Ha!
Dinner was amazing. We sat at a table with some really nice people. One man, Michael, has been coming for several years and warned us that the dessert/dancing later can get a little crazy (with all the older persons – James and I were definitely the youngest people there!). The food was excellent: chilled sweet pea soup with minted avocado; roasted lamb served with sugar peas, coconut simmered fingerling potatoes and rosemary garnish; and assorted breads.

Following dinner we went to the Venetian Theater (outdoor) for the concert. Absolutely amazing. Is it bad that I was kind of happy the original soloist had to cancel so we could hear Rachmaninoff’s Second Piano Concerto? That is one of my favorite pieces. There was an intermission, during which we walked around the magnificent gardens. Talk about an ideal place to come with someone on a date – I’m going to have to keep this in mind. Gardens (where you can picnic during the day), magically –lit paths…it’s stunning. I was blown away by the music and the atmosphere. It’s such an enchanting place!!

After the concert we went back to the tent for dessert and dancing. I wasn’t planning on eating any dessert but oh my heavens, these were no ordinary desserts! The chocolate torte was dense yet moist and had to be one of the most decadent things I have ever tasted. It was filled with a thick cream and garnished with sweet cream and raspberry hint of raspberry sauce dotted along one side of the plate. The second dessert was an organic raspberry yogurt tart with whipped cream and a lemon coulis. The crust seemed to have a hint of ginger in it…it was thicker and softer than the traditional cookie/crumb crust and didn’t crumble under your fork. I think it was my favorite; despite the sinfully deliciousness that was the chocolate torte.

Okay, and dancing was so much fun!! James and I had a good time. And it was a riot watching the old people (I did not meant that in any sort of derogatory way, just couldn’t think of better terminology) bust out to Moulin Rouge – Lady Marmalade. Hilarious! And then the guy wanted James to meet a few of the young girls that worked there…it’s the story of James’ life, I tell you what. So funny.

All in all an absolutely amazing evening!! One of those you hope the memory of which never fades away or becomes muted…

Hot Chocolate

2007-06-11T14:01:00.000-05:00

Have I ever mentioned how obsessed I am with hot chocolate? Well, I am. I have at least two cups a day. I thought about the ridiculousness of it all as I sat in my office, in the summer, drinking a cup of hot chocolate. It's a little weird, even I'll admit it...

Sigh (I'm lost for words)

2007-06-07T13:11:00.000-05:00

So, earlier today Kristan forwarded an email notifying us that the one and only McDreamy was filming a movie outside of Saks. I didn’t think I would be able to get out there to see it (it’s two blocks from my office building) so kind of brushed it off as I let out an aching sort of sigh.
Well, I needed to meet up with a few people at 12:45 at 51st and Park so I headed over there. I seriously totally forgot about it and just started crossing the street. They weren’t letting people on the sidewalk and I was going to go around but then they let me on! Then it dawned on me…duh! They were filming and McDreamy was there! I could be in a movie with McDreamy!!! However, it didn’t dawn on me to postpone my meeting up with my friends to pick up my racing supplies in order to be in said film. HOW RETARDED AM I?!!! So, I stopped to look for McDreamy and when I couldn’t see him, I crossed the tape and went back out into the public. AGAIN…HOW RETARDED AM I? I SHOULD SERIOUSLY HAVE MY HEAD EXAMINED.
Well, after I had about 40 minutes to become fully aware of my stupidity and completely regret my decision, I was on my way back to work…and hoping he would still be there. This time they were clearing things out and I was like “shoot, I missed him”…but then, I saw him coming through the crowd. There were a few people asking for his autograph but his bodyguards kept saying “no”, and I didn’t want to be a crazy, psycho fan so I just stood off to the sideline as he started coming toward me while I tried to make sure I looked good…fluffing my hair, putting on lip gloss, etc. He was, no joke, like a foot away from me when I saw him. He looked shorter than I expected, but was nonetheless the devastatingly attractive McDreamy that we all know and love. So, he looked at me and I tried my best to seduce him with my gorgeous eyes and smile (totally kidding, I probably looked like I was in shock). I didn’t think much of it as I blissfully watched him walk down the street. But he turned to look back…twice…

And that, ladies and gentlemen, is my first ever celebrity sighting in NYC. And what a way to begin!
Again, to show how retarded I am, I didn’t whip out my camera phone in time to get a picture. I am so lame.

Persistent

2007-06-07T10:38:00.000-05:00

Not only do they email, but they're very persistent!

This is from the pimp:
"Hey Karen cute girl, where have you been? This is my second email, I am very much interested in getting to know you. Let me know if that's okay with you!"

Seriously, don't let me out of the house!!!

2007-06-05T14:44:00.000-05:00

More strange encounters

I should not be allowed to go places by myself…I need a chaperone.
I walk in front of speeding cars, get lost and CONTINUE TO GIVE MY EMAIL TO RANDOM MEN. Seriously, did I not JUST blog about this?!
I’m telling you. Guys on the street stop me so often it’s a little ridiculous. I wonder if they’re all in on some inside joke together because they know how uncomfortable it makes me. Did I write about the time the guy at the deli told me not to bend over otherwise he might grab my [bottom] and he didn’t want any harassment charges…EEK!!!
Anyway…so, I think it’s a conspiracy…
So, I was waiting outside Kristan’s office waiting to drop something off and this guy (at least it wasn’t a cab driver this time) starts talking to me. The conversation basically goes like this:
Him: I like your short hair (he repeated it a few times because I was pretending I couldn’t hear)
Me: Oh, thank you (turning away)
Him: What nationality are you? (Stepping in for a second here – I get that question ALL the time, do I look that different? Seriously…) Where’s your accent from?
Me: Oh, I don’t have an accent, I’m from Ohio.
Him: Well I can see now that you’re talking that you don’t. You are just beautiful. Could we have lunch or dinner or something?
Me: Ugh…
Him: Well, give me your email then. I want to see you again. I work for (insert some film company here, I can’t remember exactly which one it was) and maybe we can get you to a premier some time. (I’m thinking…yeah, right, do girls usually buy this?)
---and this is where I need a chaperone to take me away or I should at least have a fake email ready to go…you’d think I’d learn by now!!
So, I gave him my email and he proceeded to email me (about how I was a cutie) right away from his blackberry.
I told my mom that at least this was a step up. He was good looking, wearing a suit and had just gotten out of a Mercedes…My mom, always one to comfort me, suggested that maybe he was a pimp. Thanks mom. I feel so much better now. I now have a psycho cabbie and a pimp from the film industry emailing me…

So we all do stupid things...

2007-05-23T15:27:00.000-05:00

Some of us just more frequently and on a grander scale. On March 31st I did something pretty stupid. To cut a long story short, there was a cab driver who became pretty smitten with me. He drove me to my location (a store) and insisted on waiting for me (not letting me pay when I left to go into the store) until I returned and told me he would give me a ride home. I told him I didn’t have enough cash to pay for a cab back and he said not to worry about it. After a lot of coaxing I got back in the cab (probably my first big mistake!). Well, he not only gave me a free ride down to my location but he gave me a free ride back up to my apartment (luckily the one smart thing I did was have him drop me off at a location other than my apartment). Well, he insisted that he was in love with me and I told him that I was too young for him…but he asked for my phone number and email anyway and (wait for it) I WAS STUPID ENOUGH TO GIVE THEM TO HIM. I don’t know what got into me…maybe I felt guilty about the free ($50 combined) cab rides…maybe it was temporary insanity…maybe it was because I had told him I was Mormon and didn’t want to turn him off to the church by offending him…who knows what possessed me to do it. Well, despite the fact that I don’t return his emails, he has been emailing me since then. It’s really kind of started to freak me out actually. Should I be worried? I just got another email today. Some highlights are below:

I hope everything is ok
Sorry to bather you again but I just want to know how u doing Did youi find the right dress Did u find the real hapinesss For me everything is fine School is almost over Even for my master I'm done I will gradeate this juin I which one day I wake up with the miracle, you will be my friend, just
friend, whom you can count on him when you need him
Just friend
Thanx

u think age is a problem for love.
I never get a chance in my life to love wonderful girl like you. U don't want to try since you have no one in your life. What u think
maybe it works. Since our religion are so close.
What u loose for trying.
Anyway my invitation still open.
My help and my heart too.
I felt like you were a gift from god.
Just try, you can break any time you want and you have the excuse. One dinner and so on. I have a lot in my heart that I want to give. Give it to some one who
deserve it.

...and I'm back in the game!...

2007-05-21T08:44:00.000-05:00

So it’s been quite a while since I wrote on this. In fact, it’s been so long that I’m sure people have stopped checking it because they think I’ve even forgotten about it: not so! Things have just been a little crazy lately.
Let’s see? Where to begin? There’s so much to fill in here: My trip to Utah, my obsession with Phoenix (the musical group, not the city), my trip to San Francisco…

At the beginning of the month I went to Utah for my sister’s graduation. It was wonderful to see my family and a few old friends. I love my family. I get so excited each and every time I’m going to see them! I have truly been blessed with wonderful parents and amazing siblings. It’s really impossible for me to put into words how much I love them so I’m just going to leave it at that. I had a wonderful time and the trip definitely went by too quickly!
Congrats to Kate on her graduation!

I came on Monday and found out on Tuesday of that week that I was going to go to San Francisco for work. I was actually pretty excited about it because I’d never been to SF and have always wanted to go. I only needed to be there Thursday night but I decided to stay the weekend so I could see a few sights. Since I didn’t have a whole lot of time to plan anything out or decide where I wanted to go, I was kind of at the mercy of my friend who lives out there. Let me tell you, he was a great tour guide and such a trooper. I’m sure the last thing he really wanted to do was walk around ALL day on Saturday, but I really had a great time. We went to breakfast at this place called the Red Door Café (I think, I don’t really remember, but I’m pretty sure it had something to do with a red door)…it was so much fun. There was eclectic art work on the walls. None of the tables matched, which went perfectly with the mismatched mugs, plates and silverware. Some guests sat in arm chairs, others in red wooden ones; it was charming. Ant it was run by the gayest man (wearing a wife beater tank and short blue 60’s style biking shorts) I’ve ever meet…and it was kind of funny to watch him flirt with my friend. He kept telling him to smile. The weather was lovely, so I couldn’t have asked for more. I saw the Golden Gate Brige and Sausalito (sp?), the Coit tower, the Ferry house, Pier 39, Fisherman’s Wharf and the Palace of Fine Arts. The latter was my favorite. It’s absolutely beautiful (and it was the only thing I had on my list of absolute must-sees). It’s so majestic and romantic; I loved it. I had clam-chowder (apparently award-winning…which award, I don’t know, but award-winning nonetheless) in a sourdough bread bowl…heaven! It was so good. And the atmosphere only added to it...it was this charming little courtyard where a saxaphonist was playing jazz music...it was great. And after looking all day I found the perfect souvenir picture down on the wharf, right as all the stands were closing down for the day.

And yes, despite the fact that the place is a total tourist trap (I think I would compare it to M&M’s world or the Hershey Store) I went to Ghirardelli Square for some chocolate…well, chocolate on an ice cream sundae, that is. I had strawberry ice cream with strawberry topping (don’t worry, I checked first to make sure the strawberry topping was made of fresh cut strawberries and sugar instead of corn syrup…) and dark chocolate hot fudge topping, whipped cream and almonds. And, since the guy behind the counter obviously thought I was cute, I got extra whipped cream…gotta love that! Haha. I didn’t want to eat among the crowds there so the ice cream was taken down to the waterfront and there. I loved listening to the water lap up onto the rocks and watch the sun set…it was perfect. I think I could live in San Francisco. I obviously don’t love it as much as New York, but I think I could be quite happy there.

In regards to Phoenix. If you all haven’t heard of them, you’d better check them out: I LOVE them! Suggested songs are: Consolation Prizes, Long Distance Call, Rally, Summer Days…and, oh, all of them!!

My mom, little sister Rachel (even though at the age of 11, she already as tall as I), her friend Gracie and her mom are in town this weekend. I’m kind of sad because they keep ditching me! It’s hard to have family so close yet not really get to spend any time with them. But, I understand that they are having a fun girls’ weekend. They’ve been to see Mary Poppins and went to the American Girl Doll’s store for the theater and dinner with their dolls…they’ve been shopping and just having a good time. And, I’ve gotten to spend a little time with them. We went to the Met Museum yesterday and we had dinner of Friday and I’m going to see them for lunch. Plus, not seeing them that much this time just means they’ll have to make a return visit and/or I’ll have to go home one weekend soon :)

What the...?

2007-05-10T15:34:00.000-05:00

Okay, this really tripped me out: I walked into my building lobby after taking a de-stress stroll around the block to find the most bizarre thing! This girl looked like a stripper. No joke. I know that's a harsh thing to say about a person, but I'm serious! She had her hair all teased and crazy. She was wearing a shooort and low, almost non-existent nurses dress with a hat, fish net stockings, heels, bright red lipstick...you get the picture (complete with fake cut on her forehead). And she was standing there with a guy who looked like her pimp. I'm telling you, I had to do a double-take. At first I thought they were filming something in our lobby (as they often do...check out The Devil Wears Prada), but no, there were no camera crews around. Crazy, I tell you...simply crazy.

Ice Cream District

2007-05-08T09:10:00.000-05:00

So, you know how in New York there are all those districts? As in garment, meatpacking, diamond, flower, etc…
Well, I swear that I live in the ice cream district. Within 4 blocks of my apartment I have a choice of Cold Stone, Haagen Dazs, Tasti D Lite, the little candy store on 72nd that sells ice cream, not to mention all the grocery and corner stores where I can purchase it…and this just in…Grom (specialty gelato shop) has opened on Broadway! Seriously, I already struggle to keep my all-too-unhealthful addiction to the sweet creamy concoctions we call ice cream under control…opening another source (and one so tantalizing at that) is only going to make the problem worse.
grom.it
http://www.grom.it/eng/pages/indice.htm

Chococlate? Vanilla? Chocolate…? Vanilla…?

2007-04-26T15:30:00.000-05:00

I can just hear this kid as he stood in front of the Mr. Softee truck.
Chocolate or Vanilla? Well, it appears he couldn’t make up his mind because when I saw him walking down the street he had an ice cream cone in each hand. One chocolate and one vanilla. And he was licking them both. Though the vanilla was smaller than the chocolate, so that was obviously his preference (well, unless the vanilla cone started out smaller than the chocolate one…but we’ll just assume they were created equal). Anyway, I just thought it was really funny. He looked as happy as a clam in six feet of water.

Bring Your Kid To Work

2007-04-26T08:23:00.000-05:00

Today is bring your kid to work day at 1221 Avenue of the Americas (And I think it is other places too because I saw a lot of children walking into buildings and standing with their parents at the bagel carts this morning…one approximately 8-year-old girl was wearing black knee-high leather boots (with heels, I might add), a shoooort black lace bubble skirt barely covering up her little panties and a I couldn’t see the top because she had a suede jacket on but ten bucks says it was a midriff. She looked like she was trying out to be the next Pussycat Doll, not going to work with daddy).
I love kids and I think it will be a lot of fun to have them around for the day, but I kind of feel sorry for them. I guess I just never understood the excitement of going to work with your parent for an entire day (But I guess it was different for me because my dad owned his own business so I would go in all the time). What are they going to do all day? I walked in to the pantry and heard one father exclaiming “isn’t this cool?!” I turn to see that he is talking about the coffee machine of all things. Apparently “it slices off the bottom and shoots hot water through it and you get a cup of coffee in about 30 seconds”. As I walk to my desk I see a mom who has her son sharpening pencils. I don’t know how these kids are going to contain their excitement.

What Am I?

2007-04-20T11:02:00.000-05:00

What am I? I get asked that question a lot. Am I Russian? Ukrainian? It still amazes me that I get stopped so frequently and asked about my background. Am I that different looking?
So, after work one day I decided to go unwind by getting a drink (non-alcoholic of course) at St. Harry’s bar in the Waldorf Astoria. I love it there. Walking into the Waldorf is like breathing a huge sigh of relief (relief from what, I don’t know, but there you have it). It’s timeless. And I love the oversized, fresh lily bouquet. I love lilies, have I mentioned that? LOVE them; any and all kinds: stargazer, tiger, of the valley, calla, etc. And the fragrance permeates the air and it’s just heavenly. I think Cole Porter really knew what he was doing when he decided to live there. Genius. I would love to walk home to that every day. Anyway, back to my story…So, I decide to go there for a bit. I walk into St. Harry’s bar and grab a table in the back, against the wall. I start crunching on the nuts they have there. What is it about this place that makes everything wonderful? Even the simple nut mix is something I get excited over. I like the almonds and brazil nuts. They have toffee peanuts mixed in there as well and the sweet/salty combination is fantastic. I got a diet coke and sat there sipping and crunching, thoroughly enjoying myself. I was writing in my journal when this man comes up to me and asks “working hard after hours are we?” Assuming he was hitting on me, I curtly reply “no” and turn back to what I was doing. He is a persistent fellow and keeps talking. He is about 50 years old and is bald on top with gray hair around the sides. He was a pleasant sort of old looking though and wore glasses. I wasn’t going to get rid of him, I could see that. Thank goodness I was going to meet some friends for dinner in about 30 minutes so had that excuse. He asks where I was from and I told him Ohio. He starts asking about my ancestry and said he assumed I was Native American. That was a new one. I’ve gotten many things: Russian, Ukrainian, etc. but never Native American and then he threw in another kicker: Asian. I was like, okay, this guy’s off his rocker. But then he found out I was Czech and explained that the high cheekbones and the Asian look came from the Mongolian invasion and that’s where he saw those traits in me. He knew where my light eyes, hair and skin colors came from as well. It turns out he is fascinated with cultures and has studied them since he was a child. I guess there was a black out here (he’s a Native New Yorker) when he was like six years old and he spent the time reading a new set of Encyclopedias (by candlelight) his family had just gotten and ever since then he has learned all he could. He knew so much about Czech history; it was fascinating!! And he was so shocked to learn that I am Mormon because he says that is just so rare to find a Czech who would be Mormon and not Roman Catholic…it’s just not in our blood, he said. It was kind of funny how awestruck he was by that. All in all, it was quite the experience.

Stephanie?

2007-04-16T15:08:00.000-05:00

So get this...the mail guy in my office calls me Stephanie. Why? I have no idea. My nametag says Karen, and I even put an additional nameplate up at my desk. He's even called me Karen before and then corrected himself to say Stephanie. Now he's even given me a nickname for my fake name: Steffi. Sometimes it even comes out Ka-Steffi. If I'm not there he asks people "Where's my Steffi girl?". Crazy, right? But, each day as he walks past it's the same conversation:
Him: Hello Steffi, how are you today?
Me: Oh, I'm doing well, thank you. How are you?
Him: I'm good, always better when I see you. That color looks so nice on you, then again, you always look nice (seriously, he says this every day). And those flowers (referring to the fake orchid plant I have on my desk, which, in his defense has fooled many a person) are so beautiful. But you deserve them.
Me: Oh, thank you. That's very sweet.
Him: You have a good night Steffi.
Me: Thank you. I hope you have a good night too.
Seriously, this happens every day at approximately 4:15pm. If you don't believe me call me around that time and I'll hold the phone so you can hear our conversation when he passes.

Elevator

2007-04-12T14:20:00.000-05:00

It is a truth universally acknowledged (among McGraw-Hill employees) that if you do not hit the elevator button to select your floor the doors will close more quickly. Once the doors have closed it is then appropriate to hit the button…

Whether or not the doors actually close faster if you wait to press a button is debatable…however, there are those who are FIRM believers. If you happen to get in the elevator with such a person and ignorantly hit the button before the doors have closed, you may expect to receive looks of disgust, pity (at not knowing the secret), annoyance or any other such sentiment. It really is quite comical. Sometimes you will have an elevator filled with 6-7 people who have yet to hit a button, all waiting in eager anticipation for the doors to close, only to have their hopes of a quick closing dashed to pieces by some young buck who comes jaunting in and immediately presses a button…the veterans groan within themselves and resent the 30-second (if that) delay…haha. Too funny.

?

2007-04-11T11:20:00.000-05:00

I don't understand people who put food in the microwave (at work) and then go back to their desks to work for a bit. It takes all of 3 minutes. Plus, you're just making it awkward for the rest of us...I mean, if you're not there and the timer has gone off, is it okay for me to remove your food? What if it's obvious that your lean cuisine isn't completely heated? And, what's the grace period for waiting? Do I wait 3 minutes? 5? Indefinitely until you return to claim your food? I just don't know...which is why I tend to bring peanut butter sandwiches for lunch.

And here we go...

2007-04-10T14:43:00.000-05:00

This is a lot of pressure, the whole writing-the-first-post-for-your-blog thing...

Why ice cream vignettes? Well, I love the word vignettes, I just think it's fun. Certain words are just fun, you know? Like bevy. That's another good word. Thicket is fun to say too. I could go on, but I'll spare you. And, I love ice cream. Particularly strawberry (extra points if it's from the Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory...not only does it have my favorite ice cream, but it's my favorite spot in New York...the pier, the bridge...LOVE IT!), with lots and lots of whipped cream (not cool whip). And ice cream always seems to accompany my most vivid memories or important decisions...I have ice cream on vacations, I had ice cream to celebrate getting my job in NY, I eat it when I'm trying to clear my mind if I have a tough decision or need to unwind from stress, it's my splurge food (that and raisins, I love raisins, go figure).
I've always wanted to write a book called Ice Cream Vignettes, but this is the closest I may ever come, so there you have it. The address for my blog was either going to be "ice cream vignettes" (in honor my beloved book that will never be published) or "eating my way through life" because I feel like there's always food involved in activities, especially in Manhattan. Manhattan is like one big diner. You go from one eating experience to the next. My morning walks to work are filled with the scent of black coffee from the carts on the corner, french toast, eggs sizzling on the grill...when I leave work the aroma of the Nuts4Nuts (Love them!) flows throught the air, broken up sporadically by the smell of pretzels, hot dogs or the kabobs. But you know, I'm not really a cart-eater. I love the Nuts, but as far as everything else goes - I don't know how clean that stuff is, or how long the meat's been sitting there...no thanks. Then there's the smell of all the restaurants you pass as you walk. You can tell the good ones from the cheap (well, inexpensive, I really dislike the word "cheap", it's on my do-no-like list of words). The nicer ones smell of spices and fresh breads, the inexpensive/blah ones smell like grease.

And...I should finish now...I think you'll come to find that when I write I'm a rambler. My mom accuses me of never stopping to come up for air. Well, now I'm stopping...until next time!