Meet my BFFs: Maria & Britt

Britt, me, and Maria celebrating our birthdays

I am so excited to introduce you to my NYC BFFs.  

Brittany is a southern darling.  She's always got a piece of southern advice to pass along for any occasion.  She's the adorable girly girl that can hang with the guys.  She's an amazing cook, and one of the most compassionate, generous, and thoughtful friends I've ever had.

Maria is brilliant.  She spells success in every way possible.  She is wise beyond her years, and doesn't sweat the small stuff.  Truly an old soul.  She's the most level headed girl I've ever known.  She keeps me grounded, and inspires me to just be better.  

Both of these girls are always down for everything.  I can always depend on them and they never let me down.

They are my go-to girls, the top of my Fave 5, and anything and everything a girl needs.  They have been so supportive through so much, and I can honestly say I'm a better person for having them both in my life.  They have inspired me, lifted me up, cried with me, and made me laugh until I was on the floor in hysterics.  I can always count on them for anything I need, whether it's a shoulder to cry on, a friend to go out to eat with, or someone to keep me in check when I'm contemplating a bad decision.  (Or push me over the edge when I'm considering a pricey new gift for myself.)  

If I'm thinking of going out with an ex, I'll get the famous line, "What would be the point of that?"  If I'm considering buying an ugly dress, I'll get, "I don't like that."  If it's a date I'm rehashing that didn't go so well, or I'm wondering about something a guy said, there's no hesitation with, "That's weird."  They'll call me out when I'm being ridiculous, and carry me when I'm feeling low.  Never in my life have I had friends that can be so honest, in such a non threatening way.  I truly feel safe with these girls.  (Even when I try to escape the city and keep it a secret, they can always figure me out, and never get mad at me.)  :)  

They are my truest friends here, that really just get me.  They're angels in my life.  

In so many ways they are so opposite, but they go together like peanut butter and chocolate, which is why it made perfect sense to write their post together.  If you don't know these girls you need to get to know them.  I laughed and cried while reading their answers.  They are so SO Maria and Britt.

I love you so much darlings!

What do you do in the city?

B: I work in the fashion office at Macy's.

M: I work too much most of the time.  I eat a lot too.

Where's your favorite place to go in the city?

B: Bryant Park

M: The temple-cheesy I know, but it is the truth.

(If you want a sweet story, ask Britt why.)

What would you do if you randomly had the day off work?

B: Go to brunch, shopping and then to a baseball game.

M: Sleep and then go to a matinee Broadway show.

(I think we need to arrange a day off sometime ladies.)

Living in NYC on a budget is tough; what's something on which you're willing to splurge?

B: Throwing parties and dinners for friends. Your friends really become your family here.

M: I have splurging problems.  I don't want to answer this.  :)  Whatever it is, it would cost $10,000.00.

(So true.  SO TRUE.  Hahahaha.)

If I could give you front row tickets to any concert, what would you pick?

B: Upgrade me to front row at B. Spears and I'll be your bff forever!

M: Coldplay-I totally got screwed out of tickets once, so I feel like I deserve to see them and get really awesome seats.

(B, I'm working on it.  And Maria's story?  I've heard it.  She does deserve them.)

If you only had time to watch one tv show a week, which would you choose?

B: 24.  Jack Bauer is hot!

M: How I Met Your Mother.  Love that show.

(B-Indeed!  M-Still never seen an epi.  Perhaps once we're roomies again?)

What makes for a perfect date?

B: Preparation and conversation that leads to laughing.

M: If he genuinely makes me laugh AND I'm attracted to him.  I'm easy to please.

(Guys, are you taking notes?)

What's something people would be surprised to know about you?

B: I change clothes at least 5 times a day.

M: I'm kinda sensitive.

When you've had a really bad day what makes you feel better?

B: Dancing and Ben and Jerry's coffee heath bar crunch ice cream.

M: Hearing my mom's voice.

Who's your celebrity crush?

B: Older- Daniel Craig

Younger- Shia Labeouf

M: I'm lame-I don't have crushes.  I'm not lying.  I can never answer this question and I hate it that I can't answer.

(Maria, I so knew this would be your answer.  When we find you that guy that makes you twitterpaited we'll know he's the one.)

What are your dating pet peeves?

B: Vague-ness... use your words, men.

M: When the guy thinks he is smarter than me...he has been wrong every time...every time.

(Seriously guys....did I mention she's brilliant?)

What beauty product can you not live without?

B: Urban Decay eyeliner. It stays on forever!

M: Moisturizer

If you could change one thing about the male race what would it be?

B: Nothing. I like them the way they are.  I just wish I could understand their thought process.

M: I would make it so they could actually use complete sentences when conversations get serious.

What's your favorite comfort food?

B: Any kind of southern cookin': mashed potatoes, fried okra, BBQ...

M: Mac & Cheese

What is one trend you just never quite understood?

B: Black nail polish

M: Capris-even though I gave in a little bit myself.

What's your favorite restaurant in the city?

B: Kittichai on Thompson St. Great atmosphere for dinner.

M: Shake Shack-lame but true.

What book are you currently reading?

B: The Alchemist and Girls in Trucks

M: Dandeline Wine

You've got two round trip tickets anywhere in the world. Where do you go and who do you take?

B: Egypt (I've been dying to go!), and taking Shia Labeouf...duh.

M: I would take my sister to Greece-she has always wanted to go.

What three possessions do you value most?

B: My journals, my music, my pearl earrings

M: Laptop, bed, iPod

Who is someone who has changed or shaped your life for the better?

B: Ms. Folsom, for instilling in me a love for music and all performance art.

M: Mr. Perkins, a high school teacher of mine that supported my decision to go to college at the age of 15.  He gave the best advice.

What piece of advice would you give to your younger self?

B: Life is not a race, so stop and smell the roses.

M: Don't stop dancing.  You are actually quite good.  It will be your only regret.  Oh yeah, and you will get kinda fat when you stop.  True statement.

(So NOT a true statement!!)

In your opinion, what is the most overrated thing about the city?

B: The nightlife. Going out can be fun, but 9 times out of 10, clubs are ghetto and shady.

M: Oh...so so many things.  Ummmm....best food in the world....notsomuch.

(B, SO true!)

What is a piece of modern technology that you could not live without?

B: My iPod

M: Phone

What do you know to be absolutely positively true?

B: "Kindness and compassion are never out of date or out of style."

M: I am a daughter of God.  He knows me, He loves me.

Where is the most beautiful place you've ever been?

B: Venice, Italy.

M: Hawaii-on a mountain top with my family, looking at the ocean.

What book should be required reading for every American?

B: The Travels of a T-shit in a Global Economy by Pietra Rivoli

M: To Kill a Mockingbird

What are you looking forward to?

B: Graduating 

M: Vacationing in Europe!

(Britt is not only full time employed, she's also a student at the prestigious FIT.)

What are three things on your "bucket list"?

B: Learn to make a Hawaiian quilt, travel to every continent, live a life that will inspire others.

M: Run a marathon, take a safari trip to South Africa, kiss all my grandkids' chubby baby cheeks.  I still want to be around to meet them all.

(B, you can check off number three.  M, I'll help you next year with number two.  And perhaps we can help each other with number one?  It's on my list as well.)

We had a great 4th.

How about you?

PS

Nad's birthday is the 4th, despite what the date says for the below post...

Meet my BFFS: Nad

Nadia, Madeline, and Brad

aka "Bradialine"

It's Nadia's birthday today!  Hip hip hooray!  I got to thinking about it, and even though all my siblings, and in-laws, have blogs, they're all much more humble than I, and rarely will talk about themselves.  I think this is so sad because, well, they're all really cool.  So to honor Nad on her birthday, I thought I would interview her so you all could learn a little more about her.

When reading her answers I found myself laughing out loud one minute, and tearing up a little the next.  This is exactly my relationship with Nadia.  When we get together we're always laughing, however at times we can have very deep conversations that might make me shed a tear or two (in a good way) and leave me always feeling closer to this sister-in-law of mine whom I'm so blessed to have in my life.  (Good job picking such a great one Brad.)  :)

Anyway, I hope you enjoy reading Nadia's interview as much as I did.

Happy birthday Nad!  I love you!  (And to everyone else, a happy 4th of July!)

Describe your perfect day.

My perfect day would consist of being surrounded by the people I love. Of course, we would spend the day at my summer home in Greece, swimming and sailing in turquoise water, then lunch with the locals and off to the Hellenic Festival, for theater and dancing…

If I could give you front row tickets to any concert, what would you pick?

Until a few days ago it would have been Michael Jackson – without a doubt. Now that that’s not an option, I still love Brit. So I guess Brittney Spears.

If you only had time to watch one tv show a week, which would you choose? 

TMZ

What's something people would be surprised to know about you?

I hate surprises, I know it sounds weird. It’s not like I don’t like the “surprise I got you a gift, for no reason” it’s the surprises that need planning – visitors, trips… also, I’ve realized half the time I don’t even know what I want, so I’m very hard to buy for. It takes a special person to know what I will like.

(Except of course visitors from New York showing up on your doorstep, right?:)

When you've had a really bad day what makes you feel better?

A cozy blanket and a good movie or book.

Who's your celebrity crush?

Bear Grylls but that’s no surprise. Sooo I’ll add another - Christian Bale.

What beauty product can you not live without?

Just one?? How about 3 - Mascara, lip stuff and lotion

What's one of your guiltiest pleasures?

I’ll give you two, one for the tummy and one for the funny bone. See’s Chocolate and Katie and Peter, if you don’t know it you are better off – trust me.

If you could change one thing about the male race what would it be?

I wouldn’t mind if they took a little better care of their feet. A quick pedi wouldn’t hurt.

You've been married for five years. Is there anything that still surprises you? Or would you say you and Brad are perfectly predictable?

Well, of course there are always surprises. I think on the outside looking in we are pretty predictable, but we have our little quirks just like everyone else.

What's your favorite comfort food?

Carbs – Is that a food?

I love bread, potatoes…all that stuff. And I’m always up for a lil Mexican Food. LOL, for real I LOVE Mexican.

What is one trend you just never quite understood? 

Skinny jeans for guys …

(Amen!)

What's one of your favorite things about living in Boston?

The Red Sox, not just the team but the games, the players and the people who cheer for the team. Those people make the Red Sox who they are. The people here are amazing. If you have never been to a game at Fenway Park I highly suggest it. It’s an awesome experience whether you like the teams that are playing or not. 

What's your favorite part about being a mom?

Being a mom is the thing that brings me the most happiness I have ever known. One of my favorite things is seeing the world through Maddie’s eyes. Everything is so new and exciting.

What book are you currently reading?

Beyond the Myth: The Story of Joan of Arc (plus a few others on the side.)

What is a piece of modern technology that you could not live without? 

Computer (we have a love hate relationship) oooh and my camera!!

Where is the most beautiful place you've ever been?

Costa Rica - The Rain Forest.

What book should be required reading for every American?

Oh man, I love to read! I cant possibly pick one. Follow the River by James Alexander, The Swiss Family Robinson by Johann Wyss and Great Expectations by Charles Dickens

You've got two roundtrip tickets anywhere in the world. Where do you go and who do you take?

Ummm, ok can I make a few stops with those tickets?  I would go all over Europe, Africa, Egypt, Greece and Peru (and I mean anywhere and everywhere.)  And I would take Brad.

What three material possessions do you value most?

My wedding ring, because it’s from my sweetheart. A life time worth of pictures; But most of all, recent gift from my dad that his dad (my Grandpa) had given to my Grandma at a very special time in their lives. Both my Grandparents are gone now which is part of the reason I value this more then anything.

What are you looking forward to?

Learning and having as many new experiences as I can, and watching my kids grow up.

What are three things on your "bucket list"?

Skydive, bungee jump and travel to as many countries as possible. I’m trying to talk Brad into “the ticket around the world” (and yes there really is such a thing.)

(I may join you on that round the world ticket, I've been checking those out as well!  I'm obsessed.)

Who is someone who has changed or shaped your life for the better?

My daughter Madeline. I’m not the same person I once was. Being a mom has changed me in a hundred ways, and I wouldn’t change any of them. Also my mom, I could go on for days about her but instead I'll just say, if I can be half the mom she is to me I will know I have given my kids the best of me.

What piece of advice would you give to your younger self?

Don’t worry so much about what other people think. Take care of yourself and the people you love and the rest will work it self out.

What do you know to be absolutely positively true?

I know that if I live this life to the best of my ability I can be with my family for all eternity. Nothing makes me happier than knowing the people I love will never be very far away.

"It looks like Armageddon out here."

That's a direct quote from a coworker when we walked out of the office to this:


That same coworker said four hours earlier, "It's a ten outside!" It was that gorgeous.
What's UP with this weather???


Not to mention, I'm currently on a bus headed to Bean Town and THIS is the traffic. Me no likey.
Before the bus even pulled away I received two emails from MegaBus saying to expect delays because of the heavy traffic caused by "several" accidents. Awesome.
Happy 4th!!

Sigh.

I came across this ridiculous picture tonight and it really made me miss my long hair.  I feel like my hair has quit growing recently.  :(  (And it also sorta made me wonder if I should lighten my hair a bit?  Haven't touched the color since 2004, but it looks lighter here.....maybe I'm just bored?  Reagan, your thoughts?)

Can't. Get. Enough.

Yes, I'm that aunt.  The one who thinks (knows) her nieces and nephews are the cutest in the entire world.  Yup.  

I'm headed to Bean Town tomorrow.  I just can't get enough of this curly headed darling.  I mean really, is there anything more presh?

I cannot resist her.

Mad loves the Pink Panther.

Not to mention this darling who's also irresistible.  Guys, she's single.  Be nice and I might introduce you.  (Or if you play your cards right you just might get yourself a Rachel sandwich.)

Can't wait to see you my favorite little New Mexican!

I feel like so much has happened but I just can't make time for blogging.  Remember that time I went to Australia three (three!!) months ago?  I'll finish blogging it soon.  In the mean time, here's what else has happened:

• Duck Beach
• Boston trips
• Girls' weekends
• I had a birthday
• My love Megan Marshall got engaged!!! and asked me to be a bridesmaid (such an honor if you know Meg, she's got more friends than anyone I know.)  Can't even wait for June 2010!
• Found an apartment-hurray!!
• Dreamt up more vacations

Hopefully I'll have time to bloggity blog more soon.

Meg and Rae Jan 2007

Gorilla pod giveaway!

So my new favorite blog is doing a giveaway!  I've actually never entered a blog giveaway before, but I've really been wanting one of these cool contraptions for a while, and, well, I really love this blog so I wanted to promote it as well.

In this contest the blog author (blauthor?) asked everyone their favorite part of July 4th.  It got me curious, what's your favorite part of the 4th?  

And don't forget to get your slice of pink!

Love: defined by Dr. Laura

Spend the time on the people who are going to use it well...when you keep trying to help the person that is totally disinterested in using that help in any concrete way, you're at fault.  So here's the thing...love is filled with awe, admiration, compassion and respect.  And when people haven't earned it, save your efforts for those who use it well.  Even God helps those who help themselves.

On Anthropologie

Today I ran into Anthropologie before meeting up with a friend after work.  I saw this book and had to get it.  I am loving reading about all the timeless must have pieces.  Here's the list, including what I've got in bold:

A-Line Dress

Animal Print

Ankle Bootie

Aviators

Ballet Flat

Bangles

Belts

Bikini

BlackBerry

Black Opaque Tights

Blazer

Boyfriend Cardigan

Brooch

Cable-Knit Sweater

Caftan

Camel Coat

Cape

Cashmere Sweater

Charm Bracelet

Clutch

Cocktail Ring

Converse

Cosmetics Bag

Cowboy Boots

Cuff

Denim Jacket

Diamond Studs

Driving Shoe

Espadrilles

Evening Gown

Exotic Skin Bag

Fishnets

Frye Harness Boot

Fur

Gentleman's Hat

Gloves

Havaianas

Hobo Bag

Hoop Earrings

Investment Bag

iPod

Jeans

Jewelry Pouches

Khakis

Knee Boots

Leather Pants

Lingerie

Little Black Dress

Little White Dress

L.L. Beach Tote

Luggage

Mad Money

Man's White Shirt

Mary Janes

Minnetonka Moccasin

Missoni Knit

Monogrammed Stationery

Motorcycle Jacket

Nail Polish

Old Concert T-Shirt

One-Piece Swimsuit

Pajamas

Peacoat

Pearl Necklace

Pencil Skirt

Perfume

Plain White Tee

Polo Shirt

Pucci

Push-Up Bra

Quality Champagne

Red Lipstick

Robe

Safari Jacket

Sandals

Sarong

Signet Ring

Silk Scarf

Slippers

Spanx

Statement Necklace

Stilettos

Striped Sailor Shirt

Suit

Sunhat

Trench

Turquoise and Coral Jewelry

Tuxedo Jacket

Umbrella

Underwear

Valid Passport

Vans

Vintage

Watch

Wayfarers

Wellington Boot

Wide-Leg Trousers

Wrap Dress

Yoga Gear

Zippered Hoodie

And there were so many great quotes, I had to include a few (okay more than a few):

There are no ugly women, only lazy ones.

-Helena Rubinstein

No gold digging for me...I take diamonds.

-Mae West

A woman's dress should be like a barbed-wire fence: serving its purpose without obstructing the view.

-Sophia Loren

Some people think luxury is the opposite of poverty.  It is not.  It is the opposite of vulgarity.

-Coco Chanel

Cock your hat-angels are attitudes.

-Frank Sinatra

You can always tell what kind of person a man thinks you are by the earrings he gives you.

-Audrey Hepburn

Do you know what these are?  Manolo Blahnik mary janes.  I thought these were an urban shoe myth!

-Carrie Bradshaw

You don't really know a woman until she writes you a letter.

-Ada Leverson

While clothes may not make the woman, they certainly have a strong effect on her self-confidence-which, I believe, does make the woman.

-May Kay Ash

A woman who does not wear perfume has no future.

-Coco Chanel

Where should one wear perfume?  Wherever one wants to be kissed.

-Coco Chanel

I've always thought of the T-shirt as the alpha and the omega of the fashion alphabet.

-Giorgio Armani

Beauty, to me, is about being comfortable in your own skin.  That, or a kick-ass red lipstick.

-Gwyneth Paltrow

We must never confuse elegance with snobbery.

-Yves Saint Laurent

Live in the sunshine, swim in the sea, drink the wild air.

-Ralph Waldo Emerson

If you want the rainbow you've got to put up with the rain.

-Dolly Parton

My mother was right.  When you've got nothing left all you can do is get into some silk underwear and start reading Proust.

-Jane Birkin

Adventure is worthwhile in itself.

-Amelia Earhart

I've been meaning to write a post on Anthropologie for a while now.  I sort of always bashed Anthropologie.  For one reason, I can't bring myself to refer to it as "Anthro."  Even though I have no problem with "Nordies" or "Bloomies", I hate hate hate "Anthro."  I put it in the same category as "I.F." (slang for Idaho Falls, for all you non-BYUI grads.)  

But despite the annoying nickname, I feel like it's beyond ridiculous how expensive the store is.  Really Anthropologie?  $200 for a cardi?  Who do you think you are?  Bergdorf?  Even though there are some decent prices in the sale room, I couldn't get past the ridiculous full price items (this does not include household items.)

Lastly, my big gripe is that I feel like so many items in the store are actually ugly, but consumers are so blinded by Anthro to notice.  I swear some of these things could be sold at Walmart and these shoppers would turn their noses up at them.

Welllllllllll, I've been meaning to come forward and officially admit I've been buying more and more at Anthropolgie.  Lately I've been finding more and more things I like (in the sales room!) and I've had to eat my words because I sort of really do love the store, and sometimes secretly wish someone would give me a gift card so I could sort of rationalize paying full price for some of the adorable dresses that aren't on sale.

However, recently Elise posted this, and I have to revert back to point number three.  They do sell some ugly stuff...

Are we human? Or are we dancer?

I'll let you know after September 1st.

I'm in a new relationship.

Best decision I have EVER made. I feel like life has just begun. So in love. 

Sorry I missed the parties this weekend

I was too busy spending all my time with this one. 

Totally worth it. 

Auguest 25, 2009

Daddy-o, you got the swagger of a champion

Too bad for you you just can't find the right companion

I guess when you have one too many, makes it hard it could be easy

Who you are, that's just who you are baby.

...

I know just who you are

...

You're nothing but a womanizer.

Oh yeah, Brit and I are going to see Brit at the Garden.  Can't.  Even.  Wait.

Thank you Batman for the presale tix.

Misc.

• I think I'll make that little pit stop in Vegas when I head to Rexburg in August.
• I think it might be a sign I know my boss too well when I know exactly (without ever having been told) where he misplaced his gym shorts last summer.
• "Buy your wife a rubber band wedding ring!  Why buy a diamond you'll still be paying for 18 months into marriage when you have to start paying for divorce court?"  I heard this while standing in line for the Treats Truck.  The Treats Truck lady and I shared a good laugh.
• I don't know if I'll ever get used to the idea that friends move away, and coworkers change.  Sometimes I really hate the industry in which I work.  Yesterday I got in and after I'd just made a bagel (french toast flavored, thanks Nad!) everyone was hugging Catherine and wishing her luck.  What the heck is going on??  She and Tumolo had quit that morning.  I hate hate hate that when someone is let go, or quits, it's immediate.  I usually know when someone's being let go just before it happens, however not always, and sometimes there's no goodbye because after they're called to HR they can't return to their desk.  Freaking sucks.  I hate to lose people in my life.  The good news is it's nice to have friends all over the country (and world!) but still, I hate not seeing them all the time.  Heidi takes off for Sin City next week and I just can't even imagine not getting to see her always smiling face every week.  You know those people that are just such low maintenance friends, and always happy, and always bring so much to the party, and everyone just adores?  That's Heids.  :(
• I don't consider myself someone who's always got a boyfriend, or who's even dated a lot. For some strange reason, about 80% of my dating has occurred in New York.  Don't get me wrong,  I have no complaints and the city is a wonderful place to date, but it is such a small little island and I feel like I may need to move soon just to escape all the emotional ties to restaurants, streets, stores, neighborhoods, even subway lines.  When oh WHEN will I quit feeling that little tug on my heart upon seeing these past places with fond (or not so fond) memories attached?  Even when they remind me of boyfriends I am so over?
• I feel like lately so many people have mentioned Golden Spoon on facebook.  It makes me really miss it, and really crave it.  I had Pinkberry today, which I love, but it's just not the same.
• I am so so so SO excited to see the Killers this September!!  I'm so glad Emilee, Ashley, and Maria (maybe??) are coming with me!  Last time I saw them in 2007 I was on a high for weeks.
• My lease is coming to an end in two and a half months and the thoughts of moving make me iiiiilllllll.  However, anyone who's lived in New York knows how REEE-DIC-u-lously difficult it is to find an apartment/neighborhood/roommates/rent that makes you satisfied to quit looking around.
• I could NOT be more thrilled for Chelse and Ryley's wedding in August in Rexburg!!!  I LOVE that Chelse's nabbed herself such an amazing guy who treats her like the sun revolves around her, and am so excited to have a reason to go back to the old stomping grounds, AND I get to see my grandparents in Rexburg, AND I get to see my grandma in Salt Lake.  Can't wait for August 21!!!
• I can't stop thinking about where I want to go/what I want to do for the 4th of July.  I keep thinking Miami.  Thoughts?
• The CW helped me put together my bike today-hooray!!  It's 90% done.  I just need to get a couple wrenches from Charlie at work tomorrow so I can attach the handle bars, and then borrow Chateaux's tire pump and away I go!!  (Pictures to come, obviously.)
• I was spending way too much money on myself at the spa a couple weeks ago for my birthday and decided while I was at it I'd make the bill a little bigger by throwing in some Pureology shampoo and conditioner.  BEST. DECISION. EVER.  Honestly.  Every time I wash my hair I feel like I'm in the salon.  My scalp totally tingles when I put on the conditioner, and my hair blow dries more straight than ever.  I barely have to flat iron it.  Today, I didn't even.  It obviously didn't look at straight as when I do, but I think I pulled it off.  Heaven.  Ladies, treat yourself.  You won't regret it.
• Ummmm, it's the middle of June and the girls and I had to wear jackets, yes jackets to dinner tonight.  Last I checked every June I've lived here it's been 85 degrees with about 100% humidity.  We've had rain, oh, about 8 of the last 10 days, and the "nice" day today was overcast and in the 60s.  What??  Global Warming is something Al Gore made up.
• Sometimes I'm on the UWS and I really wish I lived there.  I'm just sayin'.
• I'm already thinking/plotting what I'll do for Thanksgiving this year.  I WANT TO GO TO THAILAND!  But I think maybe only one really far country can happen this year. Hmm...
• I still really really want a dog.
• I've been watching last season's 24 with a buddy of mine and I think it's maybe not the best idea.  Keifer makes me hot.  Like, really.  There.  I said it.  I may have even uttered to said male friend, "Isn't that voice just so sexy?"  Consider yourself warned.
• I got a Zip Car membership, and the possibilities of freedom are almost too much excitement for me to handle.
• To say I'm grateful for my friends would not do my feelings justice.  You are truly, truly one of my greatest blessings, and I wish I could put into words how much you mean to me.  I can't even express my gratitude without choking up.  Thank you.
• I feel like the luckiest girl alive to live so close to Brad, Nad, and Mad.  They make me so happy.  Dear future husband: I really hope you either share my sense of humor, or have a lot of patience, because we're pretty ridiculous when we're together.
• It's really very nice to sit down for ice cream and talk things out and be able to leave with both parties understanding the other, and better off for having had that discussion.  Thank goodness for mature girls.
• Yes, I'm still trecking away on the Book of Mormon.  Don't worry.
• I'm thankful for rekindled friendships.
• I told myself I'd be in bed by 9.  It's 11.
• I need to get Yankee tickets.  I haven't been to the new stadium and even though I'm following them, I've been a neglectful fan.  Who wants to go?
• I really love Taylor Swift.  And Coldplay.  And I've been listening to Moon River nonstop.

I'm a horrible daughter

My dad came out here three(!) months ago.  Sadly, probably two months ago he mentioned not seeing his "shout out" on my blog.  I told him it would be up soon.  Apparently soon means too months these days.  I'm sorry Dad!!

We had such a fun weekend.  My dad's been out here a few times since I've lived here, but it's always just been for dinner, or a Yankee game.  It was fun to have him out for a few days.

He arrived into JFK Saturday afternoon and we took the train into the city.  After getting settled into the hotel we headed for my favorite place, the Brooklyn Bridge.  It was a nice night and we didn't ever put on our jackets once.  We crossed the bridge and then stood in line for Grimaldi's pizza.  My dad was very skeptical of the pizza, wondering if it would be good enough to wait in line outside, especially considering how hungry we both were.  Luckily he loved the pizza.

Sunday we went to my ward.  My dad couldn't get over the church and how it looked like any other building.

After church we headed to TKTS in Times Square and got tickets for Stomp.  We got dinner, changed, and then headed to the show.  On our way to the theater in the LES we saw Maggie Gyllenhaal and Peter Sarsgaard.  She was gorgeous.

If you haven't seen it Stomp I highly recommend it.  It was sooo entertaining, funny, and nice to go to a show that was family friendly.

Monday we got a bit of the late start to the day.  We ate brunch at Good Enough to Eat (one of my favorite brunch spots), and then went to the MoMA.  This is my favorite of all the museums I've been to in the city.

With Monet's Water Lillies.

Can't remember the name of this artist or painting, but my dad was so excited to see it.

After the museum we headed to a taping of Letterman.  I was SO happy to be able to get tickets for my dad, as he is the reason I've developed a love for Dave, and he's the biggest fan I know.  When I got that call at church the day before that we'd gotten lottery tickets I thought my dad was going to fall over from excitement.  

We got pretty good center seats, and when Dave came out to talk to the audience the first time my dad was screaming like a maniac.  I don't know if I've ever seen him so excited.

After the show we walked about a half a mile to get Magnolia's cupcakes.  Mmmm.  So good.  Then we walked through Central Park, and then down 5th Ave so my dad could pick up his rental car.  It was a chilly grey day, but it was nice to just be together and walk.  We probably walked close to four miles that day.

After getting my dad's car he dropped me off at my apartment and we said goodbye.  It was such a fun weekend.  Come back soon Dad!!

One regular slice please

On my way home from Boston last night the bus drove through my old hood. I couldn't help but feel a tinge of sadness upon passing by what was, at one time, my regular dinner (and at times lunch) location.
Upon first moving to the City I had no job, little money, and no sense of how to get around. I found myself hitting up this pizza joint about every day for a few reasons.

• The pizza. My favorite food.
• The price. You can't beat $3 for a huge slice and a Diet Coke.
• The location. It was two blocks from my fifth floor walkup Harlem apartment.
• The company. Chris owned the store and his Sicilian cousin Jerry ran the place. And Marco, who made the pies.

In a city full of strangers in the middle of a very cold February, there was something so comforting about going to Jerry's for a slice (and usually a canoli or slice of carrot cake Jerry would throw in, on the house, natch.) I was always greeted with a very friendly, very Italian, "Hello sweatheart!" If two days went by without stopping in they'd wonder if I had moved away.
When we drove by I couldn't help but look through the windows and smile when I saw Jerry behind the counter.
Maybe one day I'll stop in for a slice and some Italian hospitality.

My arms and back are a lil sore

But it was soooo worth it to carry this little girl around all day. I couldn't help myself. That tummy is just so kissable, and thighs are so squeezable. I told her parents I might need the Silence of the Lambs mask to keep me from stealing a bite of those chunky legs. I couldn't get enough of hearing her say "hello?" and "shoe." I know, every kid does it at some point but it's about the most amazing thing you've ever heard when you're the proud aunty. Oh yeah, and her crazy lady laugh (she does on purpose) is HYSTERICAL. Honestly, she'd do it and I'd die laughing, and she'd do it again (and again and again) just to get my reaction.
I miss you Madeline!!

Just what the doctor ordered

If I was musically talented this is what I'd write

All this time I was wasting hoping you would come around

I've been giving out chances every time and all you do is let me down

And it's taken me this long baby but I figured you out

And you're thinking we'll be fine again but not this time around

You don't have to call anymore, I won't pick up the phone

This is the last straw, don't wanna hurt anymore

And you can tell me that you're sorry but I don't believe you baby like I did before

You're not sorry, no, no, no, no

Looking so innocent I might believe you if I didn't know

Could've loved you all my life if you hadn't left me waiting in the cold

And you got your share of secrets and I'm tired of being last to know

And now you're asking me to listen cause it's worked each time before

But you don't have to call anymore, I won't pick up the phone

This is the last straw, don't wanna hurt anymore

And you can tell me that you're sorry but I don't believe you baby like I did before

You're not sorry, no, no oh

You're not sorry, no, no, oh

You had me falling for you honey and it never would've gone away, no

You used to shine so bright but I watched all of it fade

So you don't have to call anymore, I won't pick up the phone

This is the last straw, there's nothing left to beg for

And you can tell me that you're sorry but I don't believe you baby like I did before

You're not sorry, no, no, oh

You're not sorry, no, no, oh

Thank goodness for Taylor Swift.

"The moment I wake up..."

That's all I could think of when I saw George, I mean Rupert Everett today at Tea and Sympathy.
I don't normally go all paparazi but I had my phone and he was sitting right there. I tried to be stealth.
The scones and crumpets were delish, by the way, and Maria informed me it's quite the celeb attraction. Not a bad place for brunch if you're visiting NY. You're welcome.

26.

Off to a great start. :)

Blogger survey

Trish did this survey and I thought it was sort of fun to read about how she got into blogging.  I'd love to read about the rest of you too!

1. How long have you been blogging?
Just over two years.  I started shortly after I moved to New York.

2. Why did you start blogging?
A few reasons.  I'd just started reading blogs and thought they were sort of fun.  I don't have access to facebook or my personal email at work so on slow days I entertained myself by blog stalking.  I thought it was fun to read about others' lives and wondered if I should start a blog myself.  After moving here I'd been sending a lot of emails to family and friends who'd requested pictures of my life in New York.  I finally thought it would just be easier if I had a blog and that way, anyone who wanted could check in on me and see pictures and what I was up to.  Lastly, even though I don't record my deepest thoughts, it's nice to still have somewhat of a journal of my life.

3. What have you found to be the benefits of blogging?
Having a record of my life, keeping in touch with friends all over the world, finding old friends, reconnecting with family members, having a convenient means of getting opinions and idea from others, and sometimes it can be therapeutic.

4. How many times a week do you post an entry?
It depends on the week; sometimes two or three times, other times a week (or two!) goes by without posting at all, and I feel really guilty!

5. How many different blogs do you read on a regular basis?
Oh gosh, my google reader subscribes to over 100, I think.  However, a lot of those blogs aren't updated very frequently, and sometimes I don't have time to read everything posted.

6. Do you comment on other people’s blogs?
I really like to, but don't as much as I'd like.  I do pretty much all my blog reading at work, and I can't comment from there, so if I want to comment I have to remember to do it from home, and with shoddy internet sometimes it doesn't even happen from there.

7. Do you keep track of how many visitors you have?
Not really.  I have a tracking device but I don't use it religiously.

8. Do you ever regret a post that you wrote?
No.  I have gotten myself into trouble before, but no one's ever found out anything from my blog that couldn't have been found out in other ways.....if that makes sense. 

9. Do you think your audience has a true sense of who you are based on your blog?
I hope so. I feel like I just type the words how they come into my head.  Of course everyone's blog makes their life look more glamorous than it is, however I try to be pretty honest (like in my previous post about having a bad day.)  We all have hard times.  When I post about being down or struggling with something I'm not doing it for sympathetic comments (although I always appreciate the comments that are posted!) or for pity.  I'm just posting for the same reason I post on happy days.  I guess I'm just trying to be real/me.  If I do ever come across as rude, arrogant, etc, hopefully I'm not taken too seriously.  Sometimes I catch myself having thoughts about others based on their blogs, but I always try to remind myself that one can only read so much into words on a webpage.  Hopefully others think that way as well.

10. Do you blog under your real name?
Yes.  My nickname, which is a takeoff of my real name.

11. Are there topics that you would never blog about?
I would never blog about something that is personal to someone else.  For the most part, however, when it comes to my own thoughts/life I blog about as openly as I'd speak with a good friend.  I don't spell out the details of the more serious things happening in my life, but I think it's pretty clear when I'm having a rough time.  It's the same thing in my real life.  I wear my heart on my sleeve and can't hide my feelings very well.  My friends, family, and coworkers always know when I'm unhappy.  I've always been told I'm a terrible actor.  Overall I'm a happy person most days, but I'm sure anyone who reads my blog knows when I'm happy and when I'm not.

12. What is the theme/topic of your blog?
Me, my family, and New York City?

13. Do you have more than one blog?
Nope.

Thinking happy thoughts

Yesterday I had a case of the blues I just couldn't kick, despite trying all my favorite remedies.  While I was out on a walk I decided I should snap a few photos of things I saw that I count as blessings, that make me happy.  I know I have a good life and need to count my blessings, which is what I'm trying to do here.

The Trinity Church.  Not only is it beautiful, but I also absolutely LOVE hearing the bells.

Wall Street.  I love seeing a piece of history.

Even though I've only tried these nuts once (pretty good!) they smell SO good and sweet.  I love when I get a whiff, especially during the winter, without even seeing the stand.

Not only do I love Billy Joel, but life is pretty good when you get to walk the streets of New York, while listening to this gem.

While walking the Brooklyn Bridge (my favorite place in the City) I saw the bike lane, which made me really excited for my bike to come-hopefully this week!

It always takes my breath away.

It's not the same without the Twin Towers, but I still just love it.

I'm convinced there's absolutely no where in the world with better people watching.

I have a fun week to look forward to as well.  Maria's birthday tomorrow, bowling with coworkers Wednesday, spa day Thursday, Rachel coming down from Boston Friday, and our Pajama Jam on Saturday.  I'm so sad to miss out on camping in the Catskills this weekend, but I guess you can't do it all.

What are your blessings?

My moment with God

Sunrise from a sailboat.  Everyone in the world asleep except me.

Grandpa Joe

Joseph Kenneth Marks

November 4, 1921-May 10, 2009

On May 10th, 2009 my Grandpa was relieved of his physical ailments and returned to our Heavenly Father.  It's a very bitter sweet loss.  I am selfishly sad to not have my grandpa with me in this life, but I am so so happy for him to be done with this part of life, and healthy again and back with his parents and daughter.

My mom's family was so blessed to have been able to have all six kids and my grandma by his side for his last moments on this earth.

I'm so glad I'm blessed with such a wonderful boss and company to have been able to take time off to go to Salt Lake to be with my family.  Even though it was an occasion of mourning, it was so wonderful to be able to spend time with my grandma, immediate family, and extended family I rarely get to see.  It was so fun to talk about the fun times with Grandpa.  Of course there were so many stories, as Grandpa was so involved in all of our lives, and such a character.  Being a retired AA pilot he and my grandma were able to do a lot of traveling, and made it to all the important occasions (and then some) in our lives.  All my friends growing up knew Grandpa Joe, and loved him.

I was also lucky to be only a short 3 hour drive from my grandparents' house while I was in college.  It was so nice to be able to pop in on my frequent trips to Utah, and have my grandparents all to myself.

Anyone who's ever spent any time with my grandpa will describe him as being happy, and always laughing.  Even despite the trial of his stroke twelve years ago, he never complained, and was always content to just be with his family.  I will always cherish the times I was able to sit and watch Law & Order with him in his family room. 

Everyone loves you Grandpa, we'll miss you, but we know you're watching over us and smiling.

Typical Grandpa being a goofball.

This was one night I was staying in Salt Lake before heading back to Rexburg and went to dinner with Grandma and Grandpa.  I thought his hat was so cute.

Grandpa on his 86th birthday.

Such a perfect couple that I admire so much.

My last time with Grandpa, Christmas 2008.

As I mentioned, it was so fun to spend time with my extended family.  I always have so much fun when I get to spend time with my aunt Kate, and cousins Trish, Brooke, and Kim.

Kim, Trish, Brooke, and me, doing Grandpa's famous rabbit ears pose.

I'm back

Duck Beach was so fun, as expected. I'm feeling overwhelmed, however, with posts to catch up on.
Eventually you can expect to hear about:
•My dad's trip to NY (forever ago)
•Utah
•Maine
•Duck
•More Australia
•Boston (this weekend for Maddie's 1st birthday!)

Until then...

Scroll down...

I uploaded another Australia post but it's towards the bottom of the page.

Someone has a problem...

WOW. Really?

Really "Anonymous"?  You came back?  Two months after I posted you're bringing this up again? Even worse-if it's true that no one "cares what I have to say," then why in the world do you waste your time coming back?  A little ironic, no?  

(Psst!  I never claimed to be an impeccable speller, or an entertaining writer...so sorry to disappoint.)

I just wanted to wish you a little more happiness in your life.  If my insignificant little thoughts on the media made you angry enough to call me ugly names, including a word so disgusting I don't even use, I can't even imagine what you would do if someone did something actually offensive.

My friend Natalie is so much better with words than I (maybe you'll enjoy her blog!)  Here's what I'd say if I had her eloquence.

I miss her

In SLC for the week

Hope to catch up next week before Duck.

Headed back to the city

Maine was great!

Tweet tweet!

Oh yeah, and now I twitter. I have no clue what I'm doing but you can follow me at www.twitter/raehope1
If you tweet please leave me a comment with your info so I can follow you too!

Testing

I'm a little behind the times, but I just found a blogger app for my phone. Woohoo!
Here's a photo of my latest NY guilty pleasure, the Treats Truck. BEST PUMPKIN CAKE EVER!!!! And the chick who runs the joint is the nicest person. Ever. A rarity in the city.