Sentimental

I dialed her number. It was theirs, but now it's hers. The phone rang once... then twice... a third time. I heard the click of the machine. It had been a while since I called and got the machine. I waited, anticipating his voice.

But it was unfamiliar. I listened. I could feel emotion rising. What was it? Who was this?? Anger isn't the right word. Disappointment... no, it's still not the right one. It was a blow.

Where was his voice? Where was The Familiar? Instead it was a random woman trying to sell me gutters or paint or something completely irrelevant.

I called my grandma's cellphone instead. She answered and I asked about the land line. Apparently, I had misdialed the number. I hung up after chatting with her and tried again.

The phone rang once... then twice... a third time. I heard the click of a machine. This machine was different. He was on it.

I miss him.

His voice is higher on the machine. It's a poor reflection of the bass that once rumbled out of him. Still, I took it. His smile flooded through the line. I could picture him recording the message, standing over it wearing some baggy jeans and donning suspenders. The machine's buttons would be no match under his big fingers.

The message has played on the machine for years now.

As I listened, wrapped up in memories of him, the message was over almost as fast as it began. The beep rang out. I was expected to pierce the silence when all I wanted was for his voice to keep playing.

I hung up and dialed again. I listened to him again. And then a third time...

I dialed her number. It was theirs, but now its hers.

Holiday Eating: A Crash Course (or 10)

It's the season of courses- food courses! We should all review these basics before sitting down (or circling) the table...

10. CARROT STICKS
Avoid carrot sticks. Anyone who puts carrots on a holiday buffet table knows nothing of the Christmas spirit. In fact, if you see carrots, leave immediately. Go next door, where they're serving rum balls.

9. EGGNOG
Drink as much eggnog as you can. And quickly. It's rare ... you cannot find it any other time of year but now. So drink up! Who cares that it has 10,000 calories in every sip? It's not as if you're going to turn into an eggnogoholic or something. It's a treat. Enjoy it. Have one for me. Have two. It's later than you think. It's Christmas!

8. GRAVY
If something comes with gravy, use it. That's the whole point of gravy. Gravy does not stand alone. Pour it on. Make a volcano out of your mashed potatoes. Fill it with gravy. Eat the volcano. Repeat.

7. MASHED POTATOES
As for mashed potatoes, always ask if they're made with skim milk or whole milk. If it's skim, pass. Why bother? It's like buying a sports car with an automatic transmission.

6. PRE-EATING
Do not have a snack before going to a party in an effort to control your eating. The whole point of going to a Christmas party is to eat other people's food for free. Lots of it. Hello?

5. EXERCISE
Under no circumstances should you exercise between now and New Year's. You can do that in January when you have nothing else to do. This is the time for long naps, which you'll need after circling the buffet table while carrying a ten-pound plate of food and that vat of eggnog.

4. SANTA COOKIES
If you come across something really good at a buffet table, like frosted Christmas cookies in the shape and size of Santa, position yourself near them and don't budge. Have as many as you can before becoming the center of attention. They're like a beautiful pair of shoes. If you leave them behind, you're never going to see them again.

3. PIES
Same for pies. Apple, pumpkin, mincemeat. Have a slice of each. Or if you don't like mincemeat, have two apples and one pumpkin. Always have three. When else do you get to have more than one dessert? Labor Day?

2. FRUITCAKE
Did someone mention fruitcake? Granted, it's loaded with the mandatory celebratory calories, but avoid it at all cost. I mean, have some standards.

1. MOTTO
One final tip: If you don't feel terrible when you leave the party or get up from the table, you haven't been paying attention. Re-read tips; start over, but hurry, January is just around the corner.

Remember this motto to live by:

Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of
arriving safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather
to skid in sideways, chocolate in one hand, body thoroughly used up,
totally worn out, and screaming "WOOHOO! What a ride!"

(thanks, Jenn, for those important tips!) ;)

Reflectons of the Season

Yesterday was filled with new memories. Marie and I brought home a Christmas tree that we purchased. The experience itself was probably humorous to other shoppers at Home Depot. Marie and I had just left church and were in our heels. There's nothing like two women in Sunday attire trying to maneuver a 7' Christmas tree. Sap was all over our hands and branches were batting at our faces. It was probably a pretty entertaining sight as we shouted directions to one another and tried to figure out the best way to lift and shift it in the cart.

Regardless, the tree made it home and it's beautifully decorated now! Marie, Danielle, Catalina, and I set it up and strung the lights. An angel adorns it and there are even some sparse ornaments! Marie and Danielle also put up other lights throughout the house. The rooms smell of fresh Frasier fir and are lit with candles and small lights. It's so festive!

To kick off the season, we had a roomy dinner of crepes and cider. All six (!) of us were home and it made for a fun evening.

I can't help but smile as I think about what the season means. It's a time of love and sharing. Isn't that what the Christmas message is all about? Giving something bigger than yourself and sharing moments with people you love. It's not about consumerism. It's about shared memories. Stolen glances with a loved one. A wink across a dinner table. Laughter filling the air. Warm hugs and endearing kisses. Comfort and warmth that's only found with people who know you almost as well as you know yourself.

It all started with the biggest love offering: the unconditional gift of a baby for the world.

I came across this song in my Christmas playlist and I thought you may enjoy it. Ever wonder what it was like to be in those private moments with baby Jesus? Did he cry often? What was it like to hold the Savior of the world? Did his baby smell trump that of all other babies? What was it like for Joesph, an earthly father fully entrusted by the Heavenly One, to care for Mary and a baby boy? Here's a song by MercyMe called "Joseph's Lullaby" that may be a new favorite. Make sure to check out the lyrics:

Go to sleep my Son
This manger for your bed
You have a long road before You
Rest Your little head

Can You feel the weight of Your glory?
Do You understand the price?
Does the Father guard Your heart for now
So You can sleep tonight?

Go to sleep my Son
Go and chase Your dreams
This world can wait for one more moment
Go and sleep in peace

I believe the glory of Heaven
Is lying in my arms tonight
Lord, I ask that He for just this moment
Simply be my child

Go to sleep my Son
Baby, close Your eyes
Soon enough You'll save the day
But for now, dear Child of mine
Oh my Jesus, Sleep tight

Happy reflecting...

Anxiousness

What a beautiful day in DC! Despite the late hours I kept last night, I managed to wake and go to church this AM. I was tempted to skip and work on schoolwork or sleep since I know I will be up late tonight and working on it. But, man, I am so glad I didn't. The mile walk to church was refreshing. The weather is crisp today, but by the time I had arrived, my overcoat and scarf had been peeled away and my sleeves were pushed up.

The message was taken from Genesis and focused on Abram. The subject matter was "alters" and my pastor mentioned four kinds that we can make for God: thanksgiving, epiphany, dream, and decision alters. The epiphany ones are those where God reveals something to us. Be careful what you ask God to reveal, because He may reveal something pretty big! Are you ready to take it on? The thanksgiving ones should be built so that we have a place to go back to and offer thanks. Modern thanksgiving alters may be pictures (scrapbooking, anyone?), trinkets from events, and similar items. Thanksgiving alters remind us of where we have been. Dream alters are where God gives us promises. To Abram he promised descendants and land. To us it may be anything: children, a job, a home, a life partner, etc. It's something He places in our hearts and tells us we will have if we trust him. The last one is the decision alter. Are we willing to give up what's most important to us? Are we willing to manage the major decisions we make? It's up to us to place our hopes, dreams, decisions, and promises into God's hands. He knows what's best and provides. All we have to do is trust and work with diligence and thanksgiving.

My anxiousness about school work was appeased when this familiar verse from Philippians 4 was read: Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
The challenge to us was to turn our worries into prayers. Take each anxious thought and turn into thanksgiving and petition it to God. It's a cool thought to think about people not walking around worried, but walking around prayerful. It also makes for a much lighter mental load.

So, here I go. I'm going to dive in and work on some homework. The sun is shining through my window for a couple more hours. And I am thankful.

Some New Additions to My Palette

Well, I thought I'd jump on the blog bandwagon and add some new items to My Palette. As you can see, there's a handy new search tool on the left side that you can use to search through older posts. I was excited to see this tool as an option since I was recently looking for a previous post that I wanted to link to a newer one. I failed in my earlier quest, but can now take advantage of the search tool in the future.

A second new item on the left is a "Followers" button. I'm not quite sure if I'll keep this. It depends on the activity that I get, because it's all generated by you, the readers! So, if you sign up as a "follower" then you will appear on the left (hypothetically).

At the bottom, I have added a statistics counter. If you click on it, you will be able to see stats on people who have visited My Palette such as their geographical location, page they linked from, and where they went after visiting here. So, while it may not be that fascinating, it will be fun for me to see where people are from who are reading my blog.

Additionally, there is a "subscribe to" button that you can click to get updates. Again, not sure how popular this will be, so it may be a temporary addition.

Finally, I'm looking into featuring ads on my page. Not sure if I will yet. If you are interested in a product featured in an ad and click on the ad, then I get paid for it! Pretty sweet. If the ads are extremely tacky and I'm not feeling the vibe, then I can remove them at anytime.

OK, that's all I have for now. I've played on my blog enough tonight. I'm off to work on some schoolwork!

Legacy

Life can be boggling, overwhelming, and mountainous at times. I'm feeling a bit of that lately. School is just beyond nuts. The house is being shaken up again. I feel like I could work 50+ hours at work and not catch up.

I was reminded earlier this week that I am not alone. I was also reminded that it's up to me to make leaps of faith. It's up to me to finish what I start, even if I'm not sure exactly what I'm starting when I begin! I'm also feeling like I'm being prepared for something, but can't put my finger on it. I just faithfully trudge along, with hope that I'll make a difference- even if it's small. Here's a quote I heard earlier this week with which I really identified:

"I'm not sure where I'm going, but I think I hear a call." -David Wilcox

Additionally, here's a song that I love to have stuck in my head (as it is now): "Legacy" by Nichole Nordeman with the lyrics-

I don't mind if you've got something nice to say about me
And I enjoy an accolade like the rest
You could take my picture and hang it in a gallery
Of all who's who and so-n-so's that used to be the best
At such'n'such ... it wouldn't matter much

I won't lie, it feels alright to see your name in lights
We all need an 'Atta boy' or 'Atta girl'
But in the end I'd like to hang my hat on more besides
The temporary trappings of this world

I want to leave a legacy
How will they remember me?
Did I choose to love? Did I point to You enough
To make a mark on things?
I want to leave an offering
A child of mercy and grace who
blessed your name unapologetically
And leave that kind of legacy

I don't have to look too far or too long awhile
To make a lengthly list of all that I enjoy
It's an accumulating trinket and a treasure pile
Where moth and rust, thieves and such will soon enough destroy

Not well traveled, not well read, not well-to-do or well bred
Just want to hear instead, "Well Done" good and faithful one.

My personal challenge is to seek deeper, ask the tough questions, and be willing to get gritty if I hear the answers.

Life Comes at You Fast

So, I was pretty slack in my posting during October. What's even more slack is that I almost wrote "March" instead of October. Guess that's a Freudian slip. Where did the time go since March?? We're well into November. The holidays are pressing at the window and I'm still wondering where summer went.

Somewhere in the past month was a trip to Mississippi and Louisiana. I experienced my first solo site visits as I checked out some hotels where we're hoping to host a conference. I saw Mal and Dave's new home. It really is a home now. Their apartment is completely decorated (as only Mal can do) and now full of memories. They're both enjoying their jobs, have made new friends, and are settling into their life as newlyweds in the military. It was quite a different trip than the one I made in August, where Mal was finishing rooms, walls were bare, her job was a big question mark, and not a local friend had been made. It was a joy to go down there again and see smiles and know that they are both content.

Back in DC, I've just begun my final class for grad school. Tonight I met my last professor and reviewed the final syllabus I'll have as a student. There was an electricity in the air as my fellow cohorts and I recognized where we'd arrived. Although the celebration is still in the distance, I can't help but see the light. How has it passed so quickly? Time is really a blink.

As school wraps, I've started training for the half-marathon that I'm doing in March. The 13.1 miles is on the distant horizon, but my training schedule is posted on my bedroom wall. It will be the longest run I've done and I'm looking forward to tackling it. Mal has signed up for it as well. Plus, I have a couple DC friends who are running the full marathon (26.2 miles) that is the same day. I'm looking forward to the change in my body that comes with training for an event. Mentally, there's something that sparks. When the muscles are tired and hot, the brain kicks in and provides the extra drive to make it to the next sign or that hydrant or just past that car. A game begins, with the distance and time being the other players. Can I beat my time? Can I push myself an extra few blocks? Running can be boring, but it's also quite therapeutic. Not as therapeutic as writing, but it's pretty close!

Over the weekend, I had the opportunity to go to the first "adult party" I'd been to in a while. The attendees were a mixture of ages, a "real meal" was served, and there were conversations filled with purpose and aimed at bettering society. My "DC parents" (Rich and Kathy) hosted a party in their home and invited about a dozen of us over to learn about Act One, a writer's and executive training program for people in Hollywood and the film industry. I was invited because of my relationship to the hosts and for my appreciation for film and the arts. I met some really interesting people, such as the writer/director of a film I saw two years ago called As We Forgive, which focuses on healing and forgiveness being done in Rwanda after the genocides. Laura Waters Hinson is a beautiful woman who studied at American University and created the film as a student. She's since graduated and is using it to promote healing and racial reconciliation. Our worlds got smaller as we talked and I realized that she is married to a guy with whom I went to high school! Besides Laura, I also met Ben Lobato, a writer for the show The Unit and a graduate of the Act One program. He spoke extensively about the program and gave some of his life story. He came to know Christ later in life, while doing some time in the military, and has been a Christian in Hollywood. His story is fascinating and it was interesting to hear how God has worked in his life and in Hollywood.

I can't promise that my postings will be more frequent than the rate they were last month, but I can write this: I've at least tied the number! Here's to hoping I'll up it...

Clean Energy Jobs and American Power Act

While I need to update My Palette with personal snippets, I can't help but first write about an issue on my mind this morning. I was able to join a conference call hosted by Dr. Joel Hunter, a pastor at Northland Church in FL, that featured Senator John Kerry. Kerry and Barbara Boxer, both Democratic Senators will have a bill on the Senate floor once the health care bill is tackled (who knows when that will be!).

The Kerry-Boxer bill, known as the "Clean Energy Jobs and American Power Act," is a step in the right direction for better emissions controls and better alternative energy programs. You can read a little more about it in the NY Times article if you want.

The bottom line is we're damaging the environment faster than scientists have previously estimated. The Arctic shelf, once estimated to melt by 2030 is now estimated to be gone by 2013. Sea levels are rising. Nations are fighting over decreased water supplies. The earth is warming at alarming rates. The air quality gets worse every year.

Meanwhile... we wait.

The United States is one of the highest carbon emitting countries and we have to start claiming responsibility and DOING something about it. Kerry urged all on the call today to start talking and acting. He claims that many people tell the Senators and House Reps that they are concerned about climate change, but don't act.

So, instead of waiting, ACT!

Look up your Senators and write him/her to urge them them to support the Kerry-Boxer bill when it goes to the floor. For those who are caught up in the we-versus-them, the bill is being crafted by Republicans and Democrats. Besides, don't all labels fall away when it comes to the earth we share? So, click here... it's the page where you can find your Senators. Write a letter (or you can copy and tweak what I have written below) and urge your rep to support this bill. Some action is better than no action.

In the time it took you to read this, you can look up and write your Senator. Let me know if you do, because I'd love to hear about what you're doing! We're all on this earth together and each person plays a part in protecting it. This is just one way that you can!

(What I wrote that you can copy and tweak to fit you):

Dear Senator ,

Thank you so much for your work and service to residents.

As a moderate Republican concerned about our environment, I am writing to urge you to SUPPORT Senators Kerry and Boxer's "Clean Energy Jobs and American Power Act" bill that will be on the Senate floor very soon.

We need to increase our efforts when it comes to environmental stewardship and be an example to other nations.

While the bill omits some details, I trust that those details will responsibly be negotiated by the moderate Republicans and Democrats who have are uniting for this cause. I believe that SOME action is better than NO action. This bill is one step forward in the right direction.

Thanks for considering my opinion and representing me.

Sincerely,

September Somethings

The month is passing quickly. I can't believe it's halfway over. We've had a lot of changes in the house lately. Drew left for New York to pursue his last year of grad school at Columbia. A friend of his from France, Marie, briefly moved in with us until she found a permanent place to live in DC. She's since moved. Her stay was a mere 2.5 weeks. Milton found a job in Raleigh and has moved (mostly) to start his new position. He still has some of his things in our house, which he's promised to get by the end of the month. It was a pretty fast move. When he was offered the job, they asked him to start four days later.

Right now we have two open rooms, one of which we have to fill and the other of which Marie and I are thinking we'll fill to bring in some extra cash (and reduce our rents). It would be great if we could.

We celebrated Marie's bday last week. She wanted to go to dinner and then we came home and had her friends over for games and socializing. Marie had a good time and any excuse to have a party is fine by me!

This Saturday we have plans to join French Marie and her beau, George, for a day at Mt. Vernon. I've lived in DC for over 3.5 years and still have never made it to Mt. Vernon, so it should be a fun day trip. Next weekend the four of us are planning on heading to NYC to visit Drew for the weekend. I'm excited about seeing NYC since I haven't been in well over 14 years.

I'm eying a half marathon in VA Beach in March 2010. I haven't done a long run in a while and this seems like just the race to get me motivated back into shape (and back into some pants I've outgrown). The race is a St. Patty's day theme since it's the week of the holiday. People apparently get dressed up for it- in their best Irish green! It looks like a fun time and a good first half marathon. Mal has agreed to do it with me so we'll make a sisters trip out of it!

Hello, September!

Fall is in the air in DC. I opened my windows and slept sans A/C last night and it was as wonderful as I imagined it would be. When I was younger, one season always won out when I was asked the question, "What's your favorite season?" Spring was said without any hesitation.

Over the past couple of years I've felt a resistance. Spring is no longer the season that quickly pops into my head when asked that question. What is it about fall that has crept into my soul and won me? The smell? A mixture of aging leaves, chimney smoke, and rain. The feeling of the cool breeze as summer's heat reluctantly loses its grip? The colors of those leaves? Wow. The remainder of a sun-kissed tan? New flowers and plants that spring forgets? Apples make their fall debut!

Sure fall is a preface to winter, a season that definitely is my least favorite, but it's intoxicating while it lasts. Welcome back, my fall friend. I missed you and your glory.

My Morning Adventure

So, I realized only five seconds after I'd shut my car's trunk that I had also locked my car keys within it. There is nothing quite as humbling as having to call AAA from a friend’s cell and asking them to come and unlock your trunk….

After giving a brief synopsis of my error and need, this is how part of the conversation went:

“Yes, Miss Duncan. Can you give us your AAA number?”

A pause. “Um, it’s in my wallet, which is in my trunk. I don’t know it.”

“OK, no problem, we can search by your name. Can you give us a phone number where we can reach you?”

“I don’t know the phone number I am calling from and my phone is locked in my trunk,” is how I respond. I need coffee is what I am thinking.

Thoughts Regarding the Weekend

I can't believe that the weekend will be over in a couple of hours! Where did it go? It went by fast and I know it was because it was packed full of good times and people.

On Friday, I got to visit with Priya and her beau, Jeremi. I hadn't seen her for a few months (six maybe?) and it was good to catch up. Thank God for "pick-up friends"- the ones with whom we can just pick-up where we left off last. It's so easy to be Priya's friend, it's a crime. I'm blessed to have her in my life.

Founding Farmers was tasty! The food was delicious and the company was delightful. Priya, Jer, and I met some of their friends there before going dancing. I had met one of the couples before, but it had been a while. The last time I saw them was when we all brought in 2006 together at a New Year's party in Philly. After a delicious dinner, we went to one of my favorite jazz places, 18th Street Lounge. They have a deejay and dance floor on one level and a live jazz band on the upper level of the club. The patrons are typically pretty low key and chill. They can appreciate the music, make suave dance moves, and carry on a conversation. Sometimes even all at once! The night ended with a car trip to DC9, where my friend, Jay, and I met the roomies and other friends.

On Saturday, Marie, Drew and I awoke and went to the beach for a day of fun in the sun. Breezy Point is not too far from DC, so it makes for an easy ride to a not-too-crowded beach. It was nice to darken what was left of my tan from my previous beach trip and hang with Drew and Marie. The beach wasn't as crowded as I'd seen it before and we actually scored a parking spot close to the entrance. It was meant to be! Before rolling out of town, we made our traditional stop at Trader's, a fresh seafood restaurant near the water's edge. It's a bit over-priced, but well worth the cost. Their crab cakes are incredible.

Today was a great end to the weekend. Drew and I went to church, where the message centered around Matthew 25's Parable of the Talents. We were reminded to use our abilities and talents for God's glory. When it's all said and done, we'll be asked how we used them. Did we use them? Do we? At the end of the day it's just as much a crime to not use them. In addition to what the pastor preached, Drew and I also concluded that inaction is just as bad (if not worse) than action. God can use our actions, even if we fail, for His glory as long as our heart is in the right place.

After church, we went to the movie Food, Inc. Everyone should see this movie. The timing of my viewing it was perfect since I am also in the middle of reading Fast Food Nation, a book that came onto the scene a few years ago and began to challenge the way people viewed the fast food industry, among other large industries. I hope that Fast Food Nation and Food, Inc. will do what Sinclair's The Jungle did in the 20th century. The Jungle brought regulations and change to the meat packing industry. It empowered workers and called out the way companies were running their plants.

Food, Inc. is a movie that challenges the viewers to question where their food comes from. Why is it cheaper to buy fast food than quality food in a supermarket? Even deeper... do you know where the supermarket gets its food? Most food travels 1500 miles from "farm" to supermarket. Vegetables are picked before they are ripe and "ripened" with chemicals to make them appealing to the consumer. Four large companies control the meat on our shelves. Four. Cows, chickens, and pigs are fed ground corn because it is cheaper than grass. Animals aren't meant to eat corn, so their bodies can't correctly process the diet they are given. As a result, a strong strain of E. Coli has developed and is quite common in the plants where animals are housed. The hamburgers sold in fast food restaurants are packed with E. Coli killing ammonia, because E. Coli is so rampant on the "farms" where cattle is kept that a patty isn't safe enough to eat without the ammonia. Also, the average package of hamburger meat has meat from over 1000 different cows in it.

Chickens have been genetically coded to grow faster (in 49 days rather than 70) and have larger breasts, making them heavier than chickens in the past. The results are sickening and sad. Their bones can't keep up with the weight so the chickens can only walk a few steps before falling. But no worries... most of them only have the room to walk a step anyway. In most hen houses, they are so tightly packed they couldn't really walk far if they wanted. Forget sunlight. They are kept in the dark because it keeps them subdued so the farmer can go into the cage and easily scoop them when it's time for the slaughter. Perdue and Tyson both refused to grant interviews for Food, Inc. So did Smithfield Farms, which one learns is hardly a farm, but is really a manufacturing plant for cows who spend their life (if you can call it one) five inches deep in their own manure.

The movie also touches on how the companies are putting corn in all our food. Corn syrup is the first or second ingredient in most packaged foods. About 90% of our packaged food has a corn product in it. It's cheap to make, but hurting us in the long run. 1 of 3 children born after 2000 will have diabetes as a child or as an adult. 1 of 2 people in minority populations will. In the long run, this "cheap" food is costing us more.

In Fast Food Nation and Food, Inc. they both touch on what has happened to the American workforce that works in these industries. The farmers are being exploited- squished under laws and thumbs of the large companies that are buying their products. The people who are passing the laws in Washington have had former lives in the very companies who gain from them. Past CEOs, Board members, and VPs of large corporations (like Smithfield) now work for Congress and in other powerful positions. They don't really care about the farmers, employees, and the American people. Their pockets have been padded enough by large corporate money that they turn a blind eye to what their laws are doing.

A law was passed in 1996 to genetically alter the soybean. Farmers were told it would be illegal to keep and replant their best seeds. They had to start using a certain soybean that's been genetically altered to withstand a certain pesticide (Round-Up). The result: in 12 years, 90% of the soybeans are the same. The 10% not genetically altered come from small farmers who could be prosecuted and sued if they are caught not using the genetically altered beans. Why? Because continuing to grow them goes against a patent law nestled in the bill. So, our government now owns the soybean. Does anyone ever stop to think what may happen if a bacteria attacks and begins to kill only these genetically altered beans?

I haven't given away all of the movie, but have only highlighted some of the things I learned. The movie is FULL of great information. It's a spoon-fed version (pun intended) of what Fast Food Nation and similar books contain. Something is seriously wrong with how we're making and packaging food. The challenge is to rethink how you buy it. Buy from local farmers. Buy organic. Demand that animals be treated better so that the food we get is better for us. Resist Genetically Altered Products (be it fattened chickens or milk with hormones in it). Money talks and it's the only thing that these large companies hear. Make your money talk by using it in ways to support quality products from REAL farms and not the farms that are merely painted on glossy cardboard boxes with flashy labels.

The Weekend Plans

This weekend has some fun adventures in store. Priya is visiting the DC area and we are getting together tonight. Her beau is fairly new to the area so I anticipate seeing her more than I normally do! This evening a group of us are trying a new (to me) restaurant: Founding Farmers. It's downtown and I've heard great reviews about it. I'm sure there will be some after-dinner activities to follow... it's just a matter of where. Hrm??

Tomorrow promises good memories as well. Drew, Marie and I are going to Chesapeake Beach for some sunning and sharks-teeth hunting. My tan from a few weekends ago is fading and in need of a boost.

I'm not sure what Sunday has in store, but it should probably include some homework. heh.

A Morning Chuckle

One of my friends had posted this video on his page. It's pretty hilarious- or at least I thought so. I'm trying to picture Charlotte in kitten mittens. haha! Make sure you watch until the very end, as the last second is the funniest... enjoy!!

A Reminder

Sometimes it helps to sing a comforting hymn, that wraps its words around one's soul like a snugly blanket fresh from the dryer. This one has been a great one today. I especially like Chris Rice's version. Also, if you don't know the story behind the following hymn, you should read it. It'll put in perspective any troubles you may be facing.

It Is Well With My Soul

When peace like a river, attendeth my way,
When sorrows like sea billows roll;
Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.

Refrain:
It is well, with my soul,
It is well, with my soul,
It is well, it is well, with my soul.

Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come,
Let this blest assurance control,
That Christ has regarded my helpless estate,
And hath shed His own blood for my soul.

My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought!
My sin, not in part but the whole,
Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more,
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!

For me, be it Christ, be it Christ hence to live:
If Jordan above me shall roll,
No pang shall be mine, for in death as in life,
Thou wilt whisper Thy peace to my soul.

But Lord, 'tis for Thee, for Thy coming we wait,
The sky, not the grave, is our goal;
Oh, trump of the angel! Oh, voice of the Lord!
Blessed hope, blessed rest of my soul.

And Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight,
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll;
The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend,
Even so, it is well with my soul.

Horatio Spafford

A Silent War

My heart broke as I read this story today. The Afghan people are fighting a war of which we don't hear. I don't really have much to add, but wanted to share this story. The media paints Afghans as terrorists, but they are also victims. It's sad to read of how drugs are taking over some of their villages. How heartbreaking to read of such a high rate of addiction and relapsing. In addition, Satan is creeping in and robbing them of their future generations before they are old enough to have a choice.

KIVA

I was blown away by this organization when I learned about it at Willow Creek's Leadership Summit! The organization was founded four years ago by a group of friends. It is a micro-financing company that establishes loans for entrepreneurs around the globe who can't get loans from banks. Loans are established between the future business owners and someone willing to finance them and their cause.

For example, take a woman in Peru, Maria, who wants to start a bike shop. She needs $2000 dollars to get her business started, but is denied a loan for whatever reason. She applies to Kiva to be an "Entrepreneur" on their site. Kiva gathers her information and approves her after making sure her request is legitimate. On the other end of the spectrum, John Smith is interested in financing a loan request. He knows of Kiva's great reputation and wants to make a difference, empowering someone by helping him to reach his dream and start a business. John creates a profile through Kiva as a "Lender" and peruses the loans. He sees Maria's profile and connects with her dream. He can then click on her profile and lend her money through Kiva.

ANYONE can finance a loan and can do so for as little as $25. Kiva has a 98.5% success rate when it comes to business owners repaying their loans. Kiva's beta-test group began with three lenders needing a total of $3000 in loan money. Today (just four years later) Kiva has facilitated the lending of $85 million dollars. Wow. What a story.

Jessica Jackley, the co-founder of Kiva, was at the Summit and shared about Kiva. The exciting thing about the company, besides their great reputation, is that it doesn't take much to empower someone you don't even know. Plus, with the way Kiva is designed, Entrepreneurs and Lenders are connected and learn about each other. So, Lenders aren't blindly supporting someone, but see the progress being made and feel good about their financial decision. Entrepreneurs feel supported and motivated by the connections made with their Lender(s). They know that people are cheering for them and the success of their business.

It's brilliant and I am so impressed. I walked away from the session excited and pumped about supporting people across the globe in their business ventures. I also thought, how can I work for them?? Hrm...

Leadership

I returned on Friday energized from Willow Creek's Leadership Summit, held near Chicago. What a conference! The theme of the conference was "Lead Where You Are" and it was appropriate. The conference had over 7,000 attendees and featured leaders in the Christian and secular community. Some of the bigger names were Tim Keller, Bono (via video), David Gergen, and Tony Blair (via video). There were others as well, but those were the ones most recognized.

The crowd was massive and Willow Creek put on quite a production. Their stage and lighting were on a professional scale. The sound and video system are to be rivaled. They conference was done very well and I was greatly impressed.

I'll confess that I was not thrilled to be going to the conference. In my mind, a leadership conference hosted at a church whispered of hokeyness. I was attending and expecting the worst. Thankfully, I got the best.

The speakers were experts in their fields. Some are in government, such as David Gergen and Tony Blair. Others are in entertainment, such as Bono. Others lead in the Christian community, like Tim Keller and Bill Hybels (pastor of Willow Creek). There were also leaders in business, such as Jessica Jackley (founder of Kiva) and Wess Stafford (founder of Compassion International).

I can't begin to breakdown all of what I learned, but I will try to offer some highlights:

• Leaders today must mobilize, connect, and support those who follow them (Gary Hamel)
• Organizations are becoming flat and flexible, rather than institutionalized and hierarchical. We must reinvent how we manage and lead to reflect these changes (Gary Hamel)
• "The main thing separating you from God is not your sins, but your damnable good deeds" (Tim Keller). Too often we focus on the good works we are doing and begin to think of ourselves more high and mighty than we should. What motivates your good deeds? Keep that in check.
• Get out of your huddle and BE the game (Harvey Carey). Carey compared the church to a Superbowl. Imagine you buy tickets and attend the Superbowl. The players come onto the field and get in their huddle, planning for the game. They huddle for five minutes, then ten, then thirty, and eventually for 45 minutes. The crowd watches, getting restless. Finally, the huddle breaks and the players leave the field to go home. That's what many churches are like. The members go to church on Sunday, huddle and pray for their communities and world, but never actually go and play in them. They just huddle. Carey's point was this: stop planning, praying, and talking about making a difference and DO IT.
• "Failure is a success to God" (David Gibbons). Our failures are what the world connects with us on. Most of the world doesn't understand success, but all of it understands failure. Don't let your life failures stop you, because God can use them for higher purposes than we can imagine.
• Listen to peoples' stories (David Gibbons)
• We must advocate TRADE and not AID to Africa (Andrew Rugasira, founder of Good African Coffee in Uganda). What do you think of when you hear the word Africa? More often than not, you think of poverty, disease, and malnutrition. Retrain your brain. Africa is a nation of opportunity, entrepeneurs, consumers, and innovators. If we really want to aid Africa, we must help it change from the inside. No successful country has developed from handouts, so why do we keep trying to do it with Africa? We should buy products from Africa and support businesses from there.
• Believe in the potential of one another (Jessica Jackley, co-founder of Kiva)
• Leadership without passion and integrity isn't leadership. Leadership is a gift, given to a leader everyday (Wess Stafford, founder of Compassion International)
• People don't care what you know until they know why you care. God has given us all a story to be used for Him. We have worth beacuse of who gives us worth, not because of what we do (Wess Stafford)
  
• "Maturity is coming to grips with your great flaws" (David Gergen)
• "Who the leader is speaks as loudly as what he says" (David Gergen)
• These personal habits were suggested: self-discipline, make time for people you cherish/social relationships, be physically fit, keep regular habits, and make time for reflection (David Gergen)
• If you want to see change, BE THE CHANGE you want to see in the world (Gandhi, quoted by Gergen)
• Change comes about through buy-in. Big problems can be solved through small solutions (Dan and Chip Heath)
• Be honest and lead with a spirit of humility (Bono)
• Leadership is a blessing and a gift (Tony Blair)
• "Not every reader is a leader, but every leader is a reader" (David Gergen, quoting someone else whose name I didn't catch)

Bill Hybels, pastor of Willow Creek church, closed the Leadership Summit with practical challenges that we can undertake daily:

• Make time to meet with God everyday
• Commit to reading good books at least 30 minutes a day
• Review your replenishment strategy (Romans 8:6)
• Say "yes" to God every time the spirit prompts you
• Stop complaining about the lack of resources you have and equip with what you do have
• Believe in yourself

The conference was one that I will never forget. The highlights above are just nuggets of what was shared. I was spiritually renewed, mentally challenged, and reminded that there is SO much to do out there. Each of us can make a difference and lead where were are. It always starts with one.

Here are some pictures taken after then conference while we were in the airport. Unfortunately, I didn't get a picture of my boss, but here are two ladies with whom I work that are both colleagues and friends of mine:

Lisa-Jo and Juliene

Lisa-Jo and I

All Quiet on the Eastern Front

It's been a nice evening. The weather was perfect for sitting outside on the porch. Chardonnay in hand, I caught up with a friend. Though the mosquitoes are unforgiving, it's worth the battle to take in the fresh air (minus the lingering bug spray) and enjoy the movement of the city street.

The house is quiet. All of my roomies are gone- involved in their own plans. I enjoy it. I wonder how long I will be living in the group home atmosphere. My heart often longs for solitude and a place to call my own, or at least one to call "ours" without referencing more than two people.

I bid my friend farewell and piddled in the kitchen. Dinner called and I had to answer. I listened to the music as loud as I liked. There was no one else to worry or bother. No one else to worry or bother me either.

The clothes are drying and my suitcase remains empty still. I am leaving for Chicago tomorrow afternoon. There's a conference that my team (from work) and I are attending that will go until Friday evening. I am excited to explore Chicago a bit and hope there is some free time to do so. The conference is from 9-5 during the day, which means our evenings are free. On Thursday night, we'll attend the Blue Man Group. We've already bought the tickets and I am anticipating a memorable performance. From the limited exposure I've seen (on television), it looks like an exceptional show.

I fly home in time to still get a weekend. My flight arrives in DC before midnight on Friday. I'm looking forward to some down time the rest of the weekend.

Next week looks pretty slow at work. We're wrapping up some details on our conference planning before things start jumping again. At the end of the week, I'm looking forward to heading to NC to spend some time at home. I haven't been home since Christmas and am WAY past due. A long weekend with my family will do me some good.

The suitcase is calling. I must answer. Chicago beckons louder.

Quickly

I have caught up on my homework and feel comfortable enough to let it rest for the time being. I am not at my desk, where projects face me. I have a few moments of quiet. Mallory is sleeping in the other room and I am relaxing on her lanai as I begin day two of my vacation in Mississippi and the deep south.

Seems like the pace back in DC has been a little hectic lately. Drew has returned from France and there are now six of us living in the house. The older I get, the more roommates I am acquiring. It seems to go against my nature, but no one ever said that I'd live what I expected. Drew will be with us until the end of August before he moves to NY to finish grad school.

I've had recent vacations to Florida and the NC beach within the past month. Some pictures of Florida have been posted, but the beach pictures won't make it up here until I return from MS and visiting Mal.

Dave is away at bootcamp, so Mallory and I have uninterrupted sister time. Although I love and miss Dave, it's been fun to have my sister to myself. Yesterday I arrived and she gave me a tour of Gulfport, where she is living. I was really surprised to still see a lot of devastation from Katrina. There are many boarded buildings and overgrown lots where people just never returned to their homes or businesses. Signs advertising restaurants and shops stand tall, beatnen by a storm that stole what they represented. In place of the restaurant or store is an empty lot, weeds, and tall grass. Construction is rampant. No neighborhood is immune from Caterpillars, large trucks, and the sound of rebuilding. It's been over five years. I can't imagine what it was like even four years ago.

Besides the tour, we went to a restaurant new to Mallory, but one that she has been wanting to try. It's called Back Bay and it was delicious! We had their shrimp toast, which was slightly toasted bread covered in a creamy white sauce with shrimp, crawfish, red peppers, and mushrooms in it. Mmm. It didn't stand a chance. For our entrees we split pan seared grouper, fried shrimp, sauteed zucchini and squash, and hush puppies. Mal had a glass of wine and I had Abita, which is an amber beer brewed in New Orleans.

After I wake Mal, our plan today is to hit the pool for a little bit. They have a mineral pool in their apartment complex. Don't ask me what all that entails, but Mal seems pretty excited about it. After the pool, we're hitting the road for two days and nights in New Orleans. I am so excited to see Mal in New Orleans and experience the fun city again. New Orleans has always been on my top five places of favorite vacations. I'm excited about experiencing it again after about seven years of having not been there. Mufalettas, Cafe du Monde, Pat O'Brien's, Court of Two Sisters, and Bourbon Street here we come. I can practically smell the coffee and beignets. I can hear the music and taste the sweet hurricane.

Neglect

According to Merriam-Webster (2009), the word Neglect means two things: 1) to give little attention or respect to and 2) to leave undone or unattended especially through carelessness.

It seems a bit harsh and tough to swallow, but I realize this is what My Palette has been looking like lately. I promise to provide some updates soon to include: A Parisian Visitor, Fourth of July, and Vacation updates. I'll also be providing some pics.

Thanks for keeping tabs on me. I love sharing with you guys (all three of my loyal readers!) ;)

Counting Down

I am in official countdown mode for several things:

1. The Scale: I've lost 11 pounds on Master Cleanse so far. Granted, I'll probably gain at least half of it back once I start eating food again, but 11 pounds is a good number to have in nine days.
2. One.Five days: That's how many days (including today) that I have left on Master Cleanse. The fast is supposed to last at least ten days. Tomorrow will be day ten.
3. Three days: FOOD! I can eat it on Saturday. Although I go off the fast tomorrow night, I have to ease back into a normal diet so I don't freak out my body. So, Friday I can have orange juice and water. Whoot whoot. I'm looking forward to drinking something other than lemon juice, maple syrup, cayenne pepper, and tea. On Saturday, I'm supposed to only drink broths and orange juice. I think I'll start slipping in some fruits later in the day though. At that point I'll be to the fourth thing I'm in countdown for...
4. VACATION! My plane lands in FL in the afternoon and I plan on being by the pool pretty soon after that. I can't wait to see my family again!

I wish I'd kept a detailed daily report of my Master Cleanse experience. It's been an interesting ten day journey. I've definitely noticed how much of my life revolves around food. Whether I am going out with people to eat, having people over for coffee or drinks, or just socializing while snacking, food plays a big part in my life.

The cleanse is supposed to purge my body of a lot of "gook" inside my intestines. So, hypothetically, I'm a lot cleaner inside now. I think I'm going to keep it that way as much as possible. This means shaving out fattier foods from my everyday diet, including those high in sugar, sodium, and grease. In addition, I've detoxed from caffeine and plan on reducing it so I don't become addicted again. I think I have a pretty healthy diet compared to some, but I know there's always room for improvement. This cleanse will be the jump start that I need.

One also can't forget exercise! Now that I'm fitting back into the clothes I wore this time last year (when I was running a lot more), it's motivation to begin running again. I love how my body feels now (minus the hunger pangs) and hope to maintain this look and feel.

Supremely DC

Well, just when the grind gets to seem monotonous, a little bit of DC creeps in unexpectedly. I had the opportunity today to go on a "backstage" tour of the Supreme Court. My boss is friends with one of the Clerks there and he gave us a real look at The Court.

We first went into the library where only the justices are allowed. The Supreme Court building was erected in the 1930s and the library is the only room that has the original ceilings of 24 karat gold. Otherwise, other places in the building have undergone one or two renovations. After the library, we made our way up a staircase to the private gym and basketball court, which sit above The Court chambers. The Clerk who showed us the basketball court says that the inside joke is that the basketball court is actually THE higher court since it sits above the Supreme Court chambers.

Once we left the gym, we made our way to the chambers themselves, where we went beyond where general public tours are conducted... past the bar... and right up to the Judges' platform (where they incidentally have spittoons near their seats)! We stood at the mic where the lawyers plead their cases and it was quite amazing. The Clerk shared a few stories of traditions that they share. For example, before the judges walk into the court, they all put on their robes in an adjacent hall that is hidden behind the curtains (that otherwise appear behind them from the general publics' courtroom view). Once a judge puts on his/her robe, he then walks to each of the other judges and shakes their hands. Once this "ceremony" is complete, they walk into the courtroom. Another example was a tradition of the lawyers who go before the judges and defend a case. Within the great hall (right outside the court), there is a marble and brass statue of a seated John Marshall. It is tradition of the lawyer who is about to defend his case to rub the left shoe of John Marshall. The shoe itself is worn down and the gold colored brass now shows through the otherwise black coating. Pretty interesting!

It is days like today that I pinch myself. I mean... I stood in the Chambers of the highest court in the world! Overall, it's been a great Friday so far!

In other news, we just found a fifth roommate. Our new roomy, Tom, moves in this weekend. We found him through Will. So, we'll have five people in the house for another month before Drew returns from France and lives in our sixth bedroom until the end of August. It will be quite an adjustment to live with five people, let alone six. We'll see how living with four guys is!

I'm on the fourth day of a ten day fast. I'm following in Mallory's and Milton's (other roomy's) footsteps and doing the Master Cleanse fast. The first day was the worst so far and really the only issue on that day was that I seemed hungrier than I have the past three. I made sure to detox from caffeine before starting, so I haven't (yet) experienced any headaches that may be caused from detoxing from caffeine. I remember doing a similar ten day "juice fast" with Mallory over two years ago and having really bad headaches on days two and three due to caffeine withdrawl. So, this time I made sure to go through that earlier! We'll see if I make it to ten...

Celebrations!

Here are some pictures from the past weekend, where we celebrated Dave's commissioning into the Air Force and his graduation from dental school. It's great to have a dentist and Captain in the family. It's even better when it's the same person!

New House Pictures

The move went well! We had a beautiful day and many friends who helped. The boxes are still everywhere and there are many things on the "to do" list, but at least I'm sleeping in my new house (and with a new comforter thanks to Mal!). Here are some pictures taken from last weekend and this weekend. I'll also update the picture album as we add to it!

This week's big project at the house: finding a fifth roomy. Updates to come when I have some.

The most ironic thing of the weekend: I now have a car in D.C. It just won't start. The car is parked in my driveway and won't turn over. Ah, the irony...

Catch Ups

April 2nd was my last blog post and a lot has happened since then. We found a place to live that's not too far from our current house. It's quite an upgrade in terms of size. The location has ups and downs to it. It's definitely closer to a metro (four blocks!), but the neighborhood doesn't seem as secure as our current one. Plus, I won't have my one block commute to work anymore! Boo. No more walking home and napping at lunch. My commute will now include a bus ride to and from the office. On nice evenings I may walk home. It's about 15 blocks from my front doorstep to the office. Still not a shabby commute. The bus ride will take about 5-8 minutes and the bus runs every ten minutes in the mornings and evenings.

The house: HUGE! It has six bedrooms and 2.5 baths. We've decided to turn one of the bedrooms into a large walk-in closet, which is fun. The house has a sun room and large utility closet on the back of it. We have a front porch and yard, which make me very excited. There's a dining room (!) and even private parking in the back. So, I'll have a car once again since there's a free place to park it. I have mixed feelings about having a car in DC. I've adjusted easily to not having one, but I do miss it when the pantry gets low and groceries are calling. So, I know I'll appreciate it for hauling food and hauling home to NC.

Marie and I have spent most of our spare evenings at the new house as we prep it for moving. Mallory has come up a couple weekends to assist in this preparation and moving as well. There are a couple of rooms that are almost done- like the dining and Marie and my bathroom. Mallory and Dave are coming up this evening to help move some more things. Tomorrow is our all-call to the friends. We've rented a truck and are moving the furniture and heavier/bigger items then. I've taken a few pictures and will post them soon. Here is a link to some earlier pictures that Mallory took. Many of the rooms have progressed since these pics, but they will give you an idea of the house.

In other news, this week is going to be busy with school. I have a pretty big paper and final both due on Wednesday. Before that, I have a group presentation on Monday night. If I can survive through Wednesday night, I have a week off for spring break.

In two weeks I am flying to Atlanta for work. We're prepping for a big conference there in 2010. I'll be meeting with vendors and planning off-site events for folks. I'm happy to be going, but could think of better ways to spend my spring break evenings.

I've been meaning to mention a book that's caught my attention and that I've enjoyed reading: The Shack. The book is about a man (Mac) whose young daughter is murdered by a serial killer. Lost in grief and bound by guilt, he spirals into a depression and questions God. As the book continues, Mac gets an anonymous letter in the mail that asks him to go to the cabin where his daughter was killed. He does. In the cabin Mac meets God in His three parts: an African woman (who is the "father"), an Arab man ("Jesus"), and an Asian woman (the "holy spirit"). The book is AMAZING!! It has very raw dialogue that mirrors my own questions and thoughts about grief, loss, and "bad things" in this world. Plus, I love the portrayal of God as the three characters.

One of my favorite moments is when Mac, who has father issues of his own, asks God (the African woman) why she isn't an old man, with flowing white hair that is the stereotype of what men portray God to be. She smiles and tells him that she knows him (Mac). If she'd come to him as that image, Mac wouldn't have been receptive because of his own "daddy" issues. Basically implying that God always meets us where we are. There are other great questions that are answered: Where is God when bad things happen to innocent people? Why does He allow bad things if He's an all knowing and good God? Besides beautiful dialogue, the book also portrays God as relative, funny, empathetic, and real which can sometimes be lost. Anyways, pick it up- it's a quick, deep, and mind-changing read. You won't regret it.

Whoa!

Well, it seems today brought some pretty big news.

I opened my email this morning and saw an email from my landlord titled "30 Day Notice." Our lease is up on May 1 and we'd intended on renewing. It would mark the beginning of my fourth year in our home.

Our landlord, it seems, has other plans.

The email did not include details for renewing our lease. Instead, it said that our house is being sold and we need to vacate it by midnight on the 30th of April. Hrm. Definitely didn't see that coming.

I'm still in shock and working my way between denial and acceptance. I've poured over Craigslist ads and scheduled appointments for the weekend. Marie, Milton, and I will go together to look at the houses. It seems that it will be the three of us when we move. We're telling Will the news later tonight and (depending on what he says) we may look for a bigger place (think four bedroom instead of the three bedrooms I've been scheduling for appointments). I anticipate that he'll want to move elsewhere.

I can't believe that I'll be leaving my home for the past three years. I'm trying to stay positive. I know that God may have some pretty awesome plans in store that I've yet to comprehend. Still, it's been a good three years at our place. I will miss the close proximity to my office (one block) and the cheap-o rent. Those days, I fear, are long gone.

Please keep us in your prayers as we search for a new place! Our hope is to find one within a week or two at the latest. This could be really exciting and I'm looking forward to seeing where this new chapter takes me.

Paris

I can't believe I am already back on U.S. soil. That was one of the fastest five days of my life. Here are a couple links to some albums I have posted on Facebook:

• (Don't) Forget Paris I
• (Don't) Forget Paris II

While on my flights back to the States, I wrote in a journal to document all the stories and activities from Paris. My hand was pretty cramped by the time I finished.

I'm planning on turning the journal into a mini scrap book, with tickets, postcards, metro cards, etc. from the trip. Speaking of metro, Paris has the biggest metro rail system I have ever seen. It was quite overwhelming and it wasn't until about the third day when it all began to click together.

My favorite memories of Paris:

• The ballet at the Opera House on night one. I didn't need to know the language to interpret dancing. It was beautiful and I can't believe that my first professional ballet experience was in Paris!
  
• The meal at Le Basilic, a restaurant in Montmarte, on night one. Mmm. The meal consisted of rabbit pate with fresh bread as an appetizer, mouth-watering steak and potatoes for the entree, and rich chocolate mousse for dessert. All for 25 euros! Can't forget that kir and red wine either.
  
• The Fat Tire Bike Tour on night three. We rode throughout the city from 6:30 to 11:30, while stopping frequently to learn about various places. There were big names, such as the Louvre and Notre Dame, but there were smaller stops. One of those stops included the best ice cream stand in the world!! My chocolate ice cream was so creamy and fresh. During the latter part of the tour, we parked and locked our bikes and went on a ferry ride down the Siene River, while sipping on red wine. Fabulous!
• Club Plaza on night two and into morning three! It was a night/morning of fun memories with Drew and that cutie Frenchman whose name I never caught...
• The crepe I ate on night three. Mmm. Nutella chocolate, coconut, Grand Marnier, and cinnamon. A recipe for deliciousness.
• Lunch at the falafel place on my "bonus day" aka day five. The falafels were delicious and so was the eye candy there.
• Dinner with Drew, Marie, and Mickael on night five. Friends and food are always a great combination!
  

Though there are many other memories, those are some of my favorites. My regret was not having the time to go to Versailles. Guess I'll have to go back! ;)

Bonjour!

Tomorrow is the day! I have taken off work even though my plane doesn't leave until 5:30 pm. There are still some bags to be packed and laundry to do. Uncertain of how my internet accessibility will be, I will be taking a journal and pen to capture my memories. When I get a chance, I'll transfer the events to my blog and link pictures to share.

Drew has created a pretty full itinerary for Marie's and my visit. I land at 10:30 in the AM and go until well past midnight on the very first day. We have plans to see a ballet the first night, so I hope I don't get too sleepy from the jet lag! How embarrassing it would be to fall asleep at a French ballet. Lord, give me strength! Apparently, we weren't able to get seats all together, so the four of us will be scattered throughout the opera house. I hope the people I sit near speak English. I can't imagine they'd be too impressed with the French I do know- my numbers 1-10. haha!

Can you imagine... I look to my left and a beautiful French man starts chatting me up. Lost in his face, it doesn't matter that I don't know the language, his words wouldn't register anyway. He waits for me to respond to something he asked. I blink. Twice. I smile big, swallow hard and start counting aloud... I make it to ten. He's clearly confused. I smile again and finish, "Merci."

haha! Let's hope I don't have to do that.

The opera is the only event we have set in stone. There are other activities, but they are more flexible in nature. I am looking forward to European dining. I hope it's warm enough to sit outside at a cafe, drink some wine, eat some bread and cheese (or crepes!), and just watch. Well... and smell, listen, and taste too. Paris... here I come!

Photo Tag (A Tribute to Lindsey and Bryan)

Here are the rules:

1. Choose the 4th folder where you store your pictures on the computer
2. Select the 4th picture in the folder
3. Explain the picture
4. Tag 4 people to do the same
5. No cheating (cropping, editing, etc)

So, I was a bit behind in reading Lindsey and Bryan's blog, but noticed that I was given a shout out and tagged in her posts back in January. So, here we go...

Admittedly, this pic was a bit painful to see, but I'm such a professional I will still play. ::Putting on my professional cap:: This was taken in the fall of 2007. My ex, Mike, was in town and we went down to the DC waterfront for dinner. Thankfully it was cool enough outside that the Potomac wasn't wreaking as it sometimes does in the summer. On our walk by the water, we came across a restaurant with an outdoor bar and patio. The restaurant had strings of lights that surrounded it and the lights danced off the water to the music that was playing across the loudspeakers.

As we stepped onto the patio, we looked to our right and saw this huge wooden frog. I joked that I was going to kiss it and find my prince. So, Mike took my pic kissing the frog. The frog remained in its wooden state after I blew my kiss at it.

Guess I should have planted one directly on it.

Regarding the fourth rule (tagging people)- I don't know four people to tag who follow my blog and blog themselves. So... it's up to you (my three readers). If you want to do this game, you can. If not, you don't have to and can just take this "free bee" as another way to learn about me.

::Taking off my professional cap:: I think I may erase that picture folder now.

March Madness

It's hard to believe that we are in the second week of March. Time is a flyin'.

We've had a couple changes in the house. Aaron and Carlos have moved and we've two new roomies: welcome Will and Milton! The house has been a bit chaotic with the transitions. Boxes still sit everywhere. Poor Charlotte doesn't know what to think. It's amazing how attuned animals are to changes. She doesn't eat the same and tends to be more reclusive when big changes are happening in the house.

This weekend's weather was a welcomed breath of fresh air after nearly seven inches of snow last week. Spring arrived in DC! I opened all the windows (well, the ones I could) and cleaned the house on Saturday. I also checked out NCC's Saturday evening service at our local coffee shop. It was quite packed and I was impressed and touched by the service. Later, Mal and Dave dropped in after checking out the Air Force memorial. We spent most of Saturday night together. Sunday was spent in the warm weather with a trip to the zoo and eating dinner outside. It was fabulous.

This week should prove to be an exciting one since I leave to visit Drew in France on Thursday! My bags aren't yet packed, but I'm still just as ready. I'm in need of a vacation and one in Europe will do just fine! Marie is flying there on Wednesday so she will beat me by a day. I'll return next Tuesday, so unfortunately my trip isn't that long. I'll take what I can get though.

Paris... here I come!

The Q& D

As I write, I am taking a break from working on my final for my first class. I can't believe that my first class in graduate school has already concluded. It was a quick five weeks! The class was challenging. I have a new respect for people who go back to grad school, especially those who have children and families. I honestly don't know how they do it. I'm so blessed to be able to go back to school at this moment in my life when I don't have anyone's schedule to consider by my own.

I had the pleasure of attending the Vagina Monologues at George Washington University over the weekend. It was the second time I'd seen the show, the first having been about this time last year when I saw it in Vegas. That was a fun trip! I have my aunt to thank for introducing me to the Vagina Monologues. Each monologue is somehow tied to the (surprise!) vagina. Whether the skit is humorous, serious, performed by one or several actors, they are all done by women. The monologues raise money for women's charities, most of which are related (surprise!) to sexual issues. For example, one of the charities that GW was supporting helped women of domestic abuse. It's great to be entertained, but also know that one's money supports a good cause.

Last week, I took some time to get my library card. I have to admit that it feels pretty good to have my local library be THE library. Today I took the day off work to go to the Library of Congress and work on my paper. I learned more about the LOC in several hours than in the four months that I worked there! Who would have thought?

I'm looking ahead to a much needed vacation. Paris is only 2.5 weeks away! Marie and I are working with Drew to make an agenda. I'll only be there for five days, so I imagine there won't be much time for sleep! When I get back fom Paris, I may take a month or two to recover and then look at going to Vegas or something. I've been itching to get back that way and relax in some warm sunshine...

25 Random Things about Me

On Facebook, this "25 Random Things about Me" is pretty rampant now. I took the time to fill one out and thought I would post it here as well.

1. When I was little I wanted to be a writer (and still wonder if I may one day). I was always writing stories, but also had a "book" that I kept in my trapper keeper (old school!) where the adventures of dust-bunnies were transcribed by me. I called them the Woozles. I also illustrated the the stories.
2. I love the smell of rain.
3. I love when people say my name. I can't wait to hear God say my name in heaven.
4. When I am at home, I drink all my beverages out of wine glasses whether they contain alcohol or not.
5. I get slightly uncomfortable when people use self-deprecating humor because I never know how to properly respond.
6. I think moving to DC is one of the best decisions I've made in life.
7. My sister is my best friend and I can't imagine life without her.
8. I love my family and feel blessed to be close to them.
9. When I was little, I was too chicken to get my ears pierced at the mall so I pierced them myself. It was a long process, but one I am pretty proud of now. When I got the second holes pierced I went to the mall though! :)
10. My favorite season is fall. It used to be spring, but in the past few years I love what fall does to my senses. The leaves twirl to the ground before crumbling under my feet. Fireplaces pump smoke into the sky. The air is crisp and there's a hint of holiday cheer.
11. Two of my favorite sounds are the crunch of snow and gravel under my feet.
12. I always have a stack of books I'm meaning to read.
13. One day I want to travel to Ireland.
14. My favorite color is green.
15. I can't wait to find that career in life that ignites my soul.
16. One day I want to be a mom and I think I'll be pretty good at it.
17. Sometimes I wonder if I should have gone into medicine.
18. I have two reoccurring dreams: one about tornadoes and the other about losing my teeth. I pretty much hate both of them.
19. My love language is the sense of touch.
20. If someone cracks a clever pun in my presence, they get instant points and respect.
21. I have a horrible memory. I can watch a movie and six months later forget most of it. If it's been over a few years since I've seen it, I can watch it again and it will be almost like new.
22. One day I'd like to live in a house with a porch.
23. I love traveling. My top three favorite destinations include: Italy, New Orleans, and St.Thomas. I think because they all had great food and fun hole-in-the-wall venues.
24. My eyes change color depending on what I wear.
25. I love to people watch and sometimes make up stories about their lives in my head.

Have a great weekend.

Life Unleashed

Wow. It's February. When did that happen??

The past four days I was in a conference vacuum. We had our annual Presidents' Conference and I played a pretty big role in the planning and implementation of it. Presidents from our schools around the world flew into DC and attended the conference. There were about 140 of them and some of their spouses. As always, the conference was energy zapping, but I enjoyed it. As a benefit to being one of the directors, I was able to stay at the hotel in a really nice room. It was great to be treated like a VIP from the hotel staff and have a fancy room while I was there. Also, being able to stay at the hotel made life much less complicated.

School is going well. I gave my first presentation in class yesterday. I had to defend a paper that I wrote. Overall, I think I did pretty well. Thanks be to God because my nerves were a little shaky before getting up in front of everyone. My class is pretty diverse and so far no one has dropped out. There are still 16 of us. I'm one of the youngest in the class, but I seem to be respected just as much by my classmates, so that's encouraging. I don't feel intimidated about speaking in class and the atmosphere is friendly and encourages dialogue.

I took the day off to rest from the conference and catch up on school work. I'm a bit behind in my reading and hope this won't be the norm. I realize that keeping up with the reading will be an uphill battle that I won't win until the year is complete. Next week we are going to begin to focus on our thesis. Eek! I have no idea what to focus on and am hoping I'll gain some inspiration real soon. I'm debating a study in my professional field or one with the pregnancy center. Those are my two ideas now, but I may change my mind when it comes down to deciding on something.

Well, there's not much to report here, but I thought I'd share.

I hate that I missed my dad and Mal's birthday. It's weird to not be with family and celebrating when we've always done so in years past. Today is mom's birthday.

My mother is a woman of strength and conviction. Her openness to people and cheerful spirit attract others to her. She gives the best hugs and I love when she says my name. I have a voicemail saved from November where she says my name over and over before declaring her love for me. I'll keep saving and listening to it as long as my phone service allows. She gives of herself wholeheartedly and loves people that some may consider unlovable. She doesn't judge and wraps me up even if I share something about myself that disappoints her. She's a hero to other women. A hero to me. She's a tower, an anchor, and an angel on earth. She's my mom and my friend. Happy birthday to her!

Nothing big... just history being made!

What a (4-day) weekend! The city was on a high all weekend. I felt like a kid at Christmas. Even the media lovingly called the day before inauguration "Inauguration Eve." Fitting because it felt like Christmas eve. Or maybe the night before prom. Or the night before going to get my drivers license.

D.C. was like a bee hive buzzing with activity. Buses and limousines were everywhere. Darkened cars and motorcades seemed to roll by every few hours. Police and the national guard were on every street, riding on motorcycles and horses. AK-47s were displayed. Snipers patrolled by rooftops.

The energy was everywhere and what was so amazing was that it was even more positive than normal. The energy was what drew me to D.C., yet the feeling in the air over the weekend was like that energy on steroids. Crowds were everywhere!! Traffic was bumper to bumper. People were in suits, donned Obama gear (sweatshirts, hats, scarves, buttons... you name it and it had Obama on it), wore tuxedos and gowns, and were all smiles. I didn't see one fight break out. Despite the congestion and slower pace due to the crowds, no one seemed annoyed. We were a sea of humanity. Languages and accents were everywhere. German, southern, French, northern, Mandarin, Afrikan... it seemed like all ends of the earth were here. Everyone wanted a taste of history.

Wow. To be here in this moment. To feel the comraderie and cheer. The hope and unity. I wouldn't have traded it.

We had a full house on C St. I had some friends from high school, who campaigned for Obama and followed him for a long time, come to visit. Mallory called on Monday, bought a last minute bus ticket and rolled up that evening. Kent, Drew's brother, drove up from NC to take pictures and share the weekend with us. Every room in the inn on C St was booked and it was fabulous!

On the day, a group of five of us made our way in the early morning light to the Mall. It was Mal, Marie, Kent, our friend Zac, and me. We each wore about five layers of clothing and brought our cameras. When we left the house, it was eight. The streets were already crowded with people. As we made our way closer to the Mall, to join the other 3 million people, our hopes of a close spot dwindled. The crowd moved like eddies and currents in rivers. Some circling, other groups stopped, and still others streaming through walls of people. Our group of five kept breaking apart and eventually we were each on our own, with the exception of Mal and I.

The best viewing spot we had was at 3rd and Maryland, a mere 3.5 blocks from the Capitol steps. Still, our dilemma was not having a jumbo-tron to view the ceremony. Sure, we could see the Capitol, with her flags proudly hung, but nothing personal. With 30 minutes until the start of the ceremony Mal and I made the decision to race back to the house where we'd be certain to view and hear the oaths. We made it into the house a minute before Biden made his promise. A song. Then, Obama. Short and sweet, his oath was shorter than Biden's. Jubilation. A poem. Then, his speech. I wasn't as impressed by his speech on Tuesday as I was by the one on election night, but there were some quotes I took from it.

Here are some pictures from the weekend. I'll never forget these days.

Stillness

The house is quiet. We are all here, but doors are closed as we charge behind them. It seems almost unspoken. I need quiet. Let me stretch and give me peace. There's not a hint of negativity in the air. These nights are far and few between yet I love them when they come. Solace comes from stillness.

The week has been busy and fast. Work was like a tsunami as it engulfed me the first few days. Now it washes back and there's little damage. Some stress still lingers, but it will pass and with its passing comes growth. I've learned a lot this week and it feels good. I was also pretty sick this week. I even took some time away from the office just to sleep. This morning was the first time I was able to actually breathe through my nose for the first time in days. The times that I am sick always make me appreciate those when I'm not. How blessed I am to wake up pain free most days. To not feel like walking death or long solely for covers makes me grateful.

I wish I knew how to play the guitar. It's a thought that has struck me more than once this week. It's a random thought, but I thought I'd share it. Maybe putting it in writing will make me actually do something about this desire. The promise of a guitar mixed with the emotions of a being can come out in a magical way. I guess it's another form of art. Still... sometimes a tone or pitch can express far more than any word. If I had a guitar, I'd be playing it now as I sit alone in my room. Instead, I am listening to someone else through my speakers who has mastered this art and probably plays it on nights like these.

My orientation for school is on Monday. I don't know too much about Monday night except that I am one of 15 in my class. I wonder who I will meet. Will we stay in touch beyond this year? Will I share more of my life with them than moments in a classroom setting? Will they of theirs? Orientation is at six and they're serving us a "light" dinner of salad and pizza. It's then that I will learn of all the books I must buy. Days of being an undergrad flood back as I stood in the book store and looked for any of my books marked "used" on their spines. Ah, the life of a student again! Am I crazy?

I spent time with Kat tonight. She came for dinner and we caught up over canned Indian food and delicious chardonnay. Followed with French-pressed coffee and truffles. It wasn't a shabby meal! I'm so thankful for her friendship.

Tomorrow is Friday. I can't believe it. There isn't too much in store for the weekend. I think we're going out dancing tomorrow night at a much-loved (by us) club here in DC. It's easy to get to by bus and there's an eclectic crowd that's drawn there. On Friday nights they play obscure and up-and-coming international hits. It makes me think of Drew. It also makes me feel pretty hip as the songs hit the club before mainstream America.

Beyond tomorrow night, I have nothing in store. Kat and I talked of going to a bookstore and reading together but separately. A friend nearby and other world in my hand. It's not a bad idea.

Some pictures from Winter of 2008

The last couple of months have been blurry. Unfortunately, my blog has suffered from the activities. I've posted a couple of albums on Facebook of some events over the past couple of months.

Here they are:

• Winter Wonders I
• Winter Wonders II

In the first album, there are pictures of Marie and my trip to NC to adopt Charlotte. She's a beautiful cat and has been a very pleasant addition to the house. Her demeanor is calm and she's petite for her age (of about five years). While she prefers to be near the action, she's always content to sit in a nearby chair rather than on someone's lap. I call her "Insta-Purr" because she begins to purr as soon as you pet her. Sometimes she'll just start purring if her name is called.

There are also pictures in Winter Wonders I of our Cocktail party, which we had on December 20th. The house was filled to the max with about 30 guests in total who showed. We had a feast of appetizers, quite a wine variety and other drinks. It was a really fun night that was spent with many of our close friends in DC.

Pictures from Christmas in SC and NC are in the first and second albums. Christmas was pretty restful and it was great to catch up with my family. I also enjoyed seeing my friend Brooke, who moved to HI in July of 2008.

This week has been busy and some of those pictures are captured in the second album. Drew is still in town. In addition, his friend from France, Mickael, joined us for a few days as he visited the States. We've had some fun dinner parties and went ice skating in the Sculpture Garden on the National Mall. Skating and dinner party pics are seen in the second album.

Finally, there are a few New Year's eve pictures in the Winter Wonders II. For New Year's eve, we had folks over to the house for dinner and champagne toast (with 1993 Dom Parignon!) before we rolled to Fur nightclub. The club was quite a fiasco and my memories of that night will definitely be ones I'll remember the rest of my life. Between losing Mal's friend until the next day, almost being stampeded while trying to get our coats, seeing a girl break her nose after slipping on an icy ramp, and Mickael almost passing out from a panic attack (due to the stampede), it was quite a night.

2008 was a year of great triumphs, a broken heart, new friends, personal goals met (and some new ones made), laughter, tears, and dreams. Thanks for sharing it with me. I have many hopes for 2009 and am excited about seeing what happens.

Happy New Year!