I just wrapped up my first semester as a masters candidate in the Art Education program at the College of Saint Rose in Albany, NY. One of the big reasons I chose this program was for its heavy emphasis on its student's studio practices. As such, we're given ample opportunities to show our work throughout the course of the program. I have had two such opportunities recently, having been given the chance to display a sculpture in one of the academic buildings on campus, as well as in the Advanced Sculpture Exhibit held in our studios in conjunction with First Friday in Albany.
Thursday, May 17, 2012
To Be a Teacher
Way back when, when I was a young sprite in my early college years, I thought I wanted to be an art teacher. Somewhere along the way however, I dropped the teacher part and chose instead to focus solely on art. The right decision at the time, it allowed me to develop confidence in my craft which isn't always easy to come by for me. Fast-forward 10 years later however, and as fate would have it, I am back in school, getting my masters in art education from the College of Saint Rose in Albany, NY.
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
28
I turned 28 a few days ago. For some reason, this birthday has always seemed like a big one in my mind. As a tweeny, 28 seemed so mature and cool. Women who were 28 totally had it together, they were in great jobs, with great guys, pretty, confident, and totally in control of their lives (clearly Cosmopolitan should be banned as a publication, so wretchedly does it distort the young, impressionable minds of 13 year olds!).
For obvious reasons, I've been kind of nervous about reaching this self-imposed culmination of my youth. I'm still not in the job I want to be in (though am actively working toward it), I do have a great guy, but the other stuff, the totally together and in control of my life, the size 6 pants and cut abs, the witty conversation and charming yet never over the top humor? Yeah, that doesn't feel quite so real.
For obvious reasons, I've been kind of nervous about reaching this self-imposed culmination of my youth. I'm still not in the job I want to be in (though am actively working toward it), I do have a great guy, but the other stuff, the totally together and in control of my life, the size 6 pants and cut abs, the witty conversation and charming yet never over the top humor? Yeah, that doesn't feel quite so real.
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Success
To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children; to earn the appreciation of honest critics and to endure the betrayal of false friends. To appreciate beauty; to find the best in others; to leave the world a bit better whether by a healthy child, a garden patch, or a redeemed social condition; to know that even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded. Ralph Waldo Emerson.
Monday, August 8, 2011
The Tri Life
Ok, so not exactly the "tri" life. More like the "team tri" life. Yep, that's the life I live kids. GC and I completed another team triathlon this past weekend, I swam and GC conquered the bike and the run. Really, I think I got the easy part, for sure.
This was our longest tri yet, an olympic length (1.5km swim/40km bike/10km run). It's humbling to see so many outrageous athletes there to complete the WHOLE thing by themselves, but for my part, I have no interest in running 10km. The bike I could get behind, but the run, yeah, not interested. That said, I still love to compete, and to surround myself with some awesome, super motivated people. It's all about getting out there and staying healthy.
GC did a great job on the bike and the run. He really killed the bike, though it left his legs a little depleted for the run. Despite fatigue, he pushed through and completed the race, even saved me a smile as I hooted and hollered when he crossed the finish line.
The swim was a great experience. I learned I need to practice swimming straight. I tend to veer left (my right arm must be a beast). Open water swimming is completely different from laps in a pool, particularly when there are about 50 other people jumping in and swimming with you, like salmon in a run, frantic, and desperately trying to pull ahead.
Getting involved in these event has been a great motivator for staying fit and keeping healthy in the summer months. It's also something GC and I can do together, memories we can share.
I'm looking forward to all the events to come!
This was our longest tri yet, an olympic length (1.5km swim/40km bike/10km run). It's humbling to see so many outrageous athletes there to complete the WHOLE thing by themselves, but for my part, I have no interest in running 10km. The bike I could get behind, but the run, yeah, not interested. That said, I still love to compete, and to surround myself with some awesome, super motivated people. It's all about getting out there and staying healthy.
GC did a great job on the bike and the run. He really killed the bike, though it left his legs a little depleted for the run. Despite fatigue, he pushed through and completed the race, even saved me a smile as I hooted and hollered when he crossed the finish line.
The swim was a great experience. I learned I need to practice swimming straight. I tend to veer left (my right arm must be a beast). Open water swimming is completely different from laps in a pool, particularly when there are about 50 other people jumping in and swimming with you, like salmon in a run, frantic, and desperately trying to pull ahead.
Getting involved in these event has been a great motivator for staying fit and keeping healthy in the summer months. It's also something GC and I can do together, memories we can share.
I'm looking forward to all the events to come!
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Happy Thought #11
I won an antique rug! It was incredible. GC was forced (under my watchful eye) to bid! bid! bid! when they started the 30 second silent auction countdown. And, we won, for a song! I'll post pictures soon. I know this isn't everyone's dream, but if you only knew how it made my week!
In other news, it's been a flurry of friends, events, parties, sports and trips this summer leaving me little time to post. I'd apologize but I am having too much fun! All I can say, is I cannot wait until I find an email in my inbox stating that my lovely french teacher friend and her equally lovely husband have welcomed their first to the world. I am here, with bated breath, thinking of you everyday!
In other news, it's been a flurry of friends, events, parties, sports and trips this summer leaving me little time to post. I'd apologize but I am having too much fun! All I can say, is I cannot wait until I find an email in my inbox stating that my lovely french teacher friend and her equally lovely husband have welcomed their first to the world. I am here, with bated breath, thinking of you everyday!
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Happy Thought #10
Been planning it for a while now; going here this weekend; camping with a great friend; practicing yoga with some of the best instructors in the country/world; meeting up with lots of friends and GC; hanging out around a fire; getting my Zen on; listening to this guy speak; listening to this guy sing; Yeah, it's going to be a good weekend!
And because it's happy, and has lots of cute, smiling boys, a video. Thanks seester.
HAIRCUT from MAMMOTH on Vimeo.
And because it's happy, and has lots of cute, smiling boys, a video. Thanks seester.
HAIRCUT from MAMMOTH on Vimeo.
Thursday, June 16, 2011
I've got the POWER!
Have any of you ever had one of those moments where you look back on where you've been, what you've done, things you've said, and think to yourself, "Golly, I do ok don't I?" I just had a moment like that.
Digging through the depths of my email (god bless gmail and its "forever" archive), I found an old blog post I wrote about getting a compliment, a compliment mind you, which I had completely forgotten about.
It irks me sometimes how much I forget about my past and the things that have happened both to me. I think it's a result of being worried all the time about appearances which has a way of diverting ones attention from the experience itself to the insecurities ones feels during that experience.
Whatever the reason, the ease at which I seem to forget my life pisses me off. It's as if, if I don't make a concerted effort to mark the moment, it vaporizes into the abyss. Even having just read a written account (by my own hand!) I still struggle to remember the details, only able to conjure up a vague recollection. Please! Somebody tell me their brain functions similarly so I don't think I'm losing my mind!
Anyway, I digress. I found this post about a compliment that I'd received, and started reading my old posts dating way back to 2007. It was before GC, when art and I were still hanging out on a regular basis. I was single, newly moved in to my first apartment, and generally feeling good about life.
Somewhere along the way, I jumped off the feeling good about myself boat. I lost direction and purpose. Of course in that time, I met GC, which has been a wonderful whirlwind of falling in love, getting married, and starting our life together, but on a deep, personal level, apart from GC and our relationship, I found myself floating in a sea of indecision, my creativity and inspiration gone to seed, and my true self only a whisper of what it had been.
I'm hard on myself, we all know that. I focus on areas of improvement. I don't forgive myself small missteps, remembering only where I thought I was lacking, rarely recognizing all the great things I do. At least, that has been my mindset of late.
Looking back on that post however, I saw a firm example of the strengths and qualities of my character. I read the words of a confident, happy woman, constantly striving to see the joy and beauty in life's ups and downs. She was a woman with a voice, well articulated and on occasion, funny, who was able to look at the cards life had dealt her with quiet wisdom and perspective. She clearly expected a great deal of herself, but indeed, took on life's challenges with a joyful heart.
I want her back, the girl who was just starting to feel good about herself. And you know what? I'll get her back. No, in fact, I'll get the updated 27 year old model, now a married woman, but again, a woman with great heart and joy to share with this world. She'll make art, and smile more. She'll forgive herself the imperfections inherent in every human, because on the whole, she's great, and she tries damn hard.
She'll learn to love how she loves, deeply and sensitively, instead of viewing it as a character flaw. She'll stand up for herself, and take with stride things that might hurt her, not putting up walls, but processing and then releasing back to the world. She'll have courage and will trust in her ability to make good decisions. She'll see the value she brings to this world. She'll care less about trying to be a certain way, but will instead, be herself, the only perfect version of Trina that can exist.
All these things, I will discover. It may take me a while, but I'll get there. And because I probably won't remember some of the milestones, you'll have to put up with my verbose personal history and discovery here. Seriously, someone needs to remember this shit, something tells me it might be important. :)
Thursday, June 9, 2011
The Ritual
Last night, GC and I had boatloads we hoped to accomplish. I got home late, did a little sewing before hubs got home, and then headed to the kitchen to start getting dinner ready. When GC arrived, it was about 6:15.
It's become a ritual of ours to have a quick chat when he gets home. I ask, "Want to go sit?" He proceeds to look at the couch, ponder for a few seconds, and then say," Yeah, sure." It's the same every time. Once comfortably seated, GC usually unloads about the day's stresses. I lean into his chest, listening, and enjoy the warmth of his body and the mellow scent of his deodorant as he wraps his arm around my shoulders.
Generally speaking, GC's life at work tends more toward the dramatic than mine. In part, it's the differences in our industries (food service vs. graphic design), but also just the nature of our positions. Rarely am I the one dominating our evening conversations. Not because I don't have things to say but because I am less inclined to unload.
For all those out there that think women are the always the talkers... throw your stereotypes out the window. By far, GC is the talker in our relationship. The only time I tend to talk more is when we're having a discussion about our "feelings". Call it being a girl, or the fact that it's more socially acceptable for women to express their emotions than men, but there has never been a feeling I didn't try to articulate with the spoken word. A person of reasonable vocabulary, even I cannot fully convey some of them.
All that said, last night was no different. GC arrive. I asked. He pondered. We sat. He talked. I listened. And then I broke protocol. I let him finish, allowing us the moment to sit together quietly, then I began. I laid out a plan for the future, what I wanted my life to look like, how I thought our mutual goals and desires could be fulfilled within the framework. He listened. I talked. And then he responded.
Not because I ever thought he'd squash my dreams, but more because I am constantly and consistently seeking the approval of others, I worried my plan wouldn't be good enough, that he'd find flaws, and reasons I shouldn't forge ahead. I couldn't have been more wrong in my assessment of his reaction. More or less, the message was, "Let's make it work."
I can't tell you the relief and rush of enthusiasm I felt to have been so wholly embraced. It was great. GC is a fantastic man, and I feel incredibly blessed to have him as my partner in this world. Yesterday, was one of the first married moments where I felt very much that we were in it together, supporting each others hopes and dreams.
So you're probably wondering, what's this great plan? Well, as things progress, I'll keep you up to date on my adventures. I can say that nothing is changing immediately. The long term plan revolves around finding some of the happiness I've been missing of late, and beginning a journey of more meaningful contribution. Vague, right? Don't worry, you'll find out in due time. Let's just say I'm pretty stoked, and genuinely bolstered at the thought of moving ahead in a new, positive direction.
Be well.
It's become a ritual of ours to have a quick chat when he gets home. I ask, "Want to go sit?" He proceeds to look at the couch, ponder for a few seconds, and then say," Yeah, sure." It's the same every time. Once comfortably seated, GC usually unloads about the day's stresses. I lean into his chest, listening, and enjoy the warmth of his body and the mellow scent of his deodorant as he wraps his arm around my shoulders.
Generally speaking, GC's life at work tends more toward the dramatic than mine. In part, it's the differences in our industries (food service vs. graphic design), but also just the nature of our positions. Rarely am I the one dominating our evening conversations. Not because I don't have things to say but because I am less inclined to unload.
For all those out there that think women are the always the talkers... throw your stereotypes out the window. By far, GC is the talker in our relationship. The only time I tend to talk more is when we're having a discussion about our "feelings". Call it being a girl, or the fact that it's more socially acceptable for women to express their emotions than men, but there has never been a feeling I didn't try to articulate with the spoken word. A person of reasonable vocabulary, even I cannot fully convey some of them.
All that said, last night was no different. GC arrive. I asked. He pondered. We sat. He talked. I listened. And then I broke protocol. I let him finish, allowing us the moment to sit together quietly, then I began. I laid out a plan for the future, what I wanted my life to look like, how I thought our mutual goals and desires could be fulfilled within the framework. He listened. I talked. And then he responded.
Not because I ever thought he'd squash my dreams, but more because I am constantly and consistently seeking the approval of others, I worried my plan wouldn't be good enough, that he'd find flaws, and reasons I shouldn't forge ahead. I couldn't have been more wrong in my assessment of his reaction. More or less, the message was, "Let's make it work."
I can't tell you the relief and rush of enthusiasm I felt to have been so wholly embraced. It was great. GC is a fantastic man, and I feel incredibly blessed to have him as my partner in this world. Yesterday, was one of the first married moments where I felt very much that we were in it together, supporting each others hopes and dreams.
So you're probably wondering, what's this great plan? Well, as things progress, I'll keep you up to date on my adventures. I can say that nothing is changing immediately. The long term plan revolves around finding some of the happiness I've been missing of late, and beginning a journey of more meaningful contribution. Vague, right? Don't worry, you'll find out in due time. Let's just say I'm pretty stoked, and genuinely bolstered at the thought of moving ahead in a new, positive direction.
Be well.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Happy thought #9
A taurus through and through, I find my rest in the simple pleasures of this world; nature, friends, evening libations, a comfortable bed. My morning drive is no exception. Drained from the daily road warrior commute on the interstate (though all things considered its practically bucolic compared to the commutes of some through smog-laden urban landscapes) I decided to change my route. I now take old "interstate" 9, a winding road that could literally take you from NYC to Canada if you had 20 hours.
In my little stretch, it is dotted with farm houses, a highway on ramp, some llamas, and the little houses that cropped up from the 40's to the 80's when Lake George was still a hot spot for summer tourists. It's all the things to be loved and loathed about upstate NY. There's the odd trailer park and junk yard, but there are also winding roads amid rolling farmland, green and lush, oozing with summer and the hum of bugs. To ride that route without your windows down is a travesty.
Sure, it takes a few minutes longer. There are a stop lights and depending on the time of day you drive it, a myriad of school buses make frequent stops for little feet scurrying from road's edge until hidden behind bus doors twice their size.
But instead of rushing past, hustling from one place to the next to the next, I pause and appreciate. I notice the cute green house with yellow trim that I imagine myself living in when I'm old and gray. I have time to miss the deer or the squirrel that darts across the road. I make note everyday of the glass shop with its Harold and Maude-esque glass and wrought iron kitschy exterior. Its a journey that feeds the artist and romantic in me.
Some people remember events historically, time-centered in their recollections. Others pair the flavors and scents of a meal with their emotional history. Me? I notice the forgotten details, the subtle footprint of something loved and cared for. It's all over the road. For each day I travel, there is a new detail to notice.
So my happy thought today? The warm, humid breeze hitting my face through the car window, bursting with summer smells. The Glass Shop, and the purple and olive light reflecting off its windows. The two little kids who hopped out of their mom's car and into the waiting school bus. The chartreuse/lime/moss-hued glow of the trees as the sun shone through them. The ride.
In my little stretch, it is dotted with farm houses, a highway on ramp, some llamas, and the little houses that cropped up from the 40's to the 80's when Lake George was still a hot spot for summer tourists. It's all the things to be loved and loathed about upstate NY. There's the odd trailer park and junk yard, but there are also winding roads amid rolling farmland, green and lush, oozing with summer and the hum of bugs. To ride that route without your windows down is a travesty.
Sure, it takes a few minutes longer. There are a stop lights and depending on the time of day you drive it, a myriad of school buses make frequent stops for little feet scurrying from road's edge until hidden behind bus doors twice their size.
But instead of rushing past, hustling from one place to the next to the next, I pause and appreciate. I notice the cute green house with yellow trim that I imagine myself living in when I'm old and gray. I have time to miss the deer or the squirrel that darts across the road. I make note everyday of the glass shop with its Harold and Maude-esque glass and wrought iron kitschy exterior. Its a journey that feeds the artist and romantic in me.
Some people remember events historically, time-centered in their recollections. Others pair the flavors and scents of a meal with their emotional history. Me? I notice the forgotten details, the subtle footprint of something loved and cared for. It's all over the road. For each day I travel, there is a new detail to notice.
So my happy thought today? The warm, humid breeze hitting my face through the car window, bursting with summer smells. The Glass Shop, and the purple and olive light reflecting off its windows. The two little kids who hopped out of their mom's car and into the waiting school bus. The chartreuse/lime/moss-hued glow of the trees as the sun shone through them. The ride.
Friday, June 3, 2011
Perfect, beautiful.
Last weekend I did a whirlwind road trip to Virginia for the wedding of one of my nearest and dearest friends, Molly. Molly met Rob about 5 years ago in Boston, shortly after moving to Bean Town to work for Americore. As one of those people who inspires you to do better, Molly teaches you to love more, dance more, laugh more, and care more. Kindness exudes from her very being, a fact which anyone who has met her, can't deny.
I am incredibly honored to call her my friend, and felt blessed last week to have been given the gift of watching her marry Rob, a person whose spirit, if possible, echos Molly's in a way it seems only fate could have arranged.
To see them together, you can't help but feel the love between them. So full of joy each was say, "I pick you, forever." It reminded me of all I could be doing to show GC how much I love him. To remind him daily of the place he holds in my heart, and to cherish the gift he has given me of his heart.
Thank you Molly, for the wonderful inspiration you are in my life. I wish you and Rob happiness and joy in your new life together. It's a blessed life to journey through its ups and downs beside the one you love. Congratulations, I couldn't be happier for you :)
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Happy Thought #8
That old saying, "The sun will come out tomorrow?" Turns out it's often true. Embracing the sunshine today, and the thought of new possibilities. Oh and I forgot to mention, completely inspired by this book!
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Happy Thought #7
It's summer out there! I'm looking forward to moving my car at lunch and stepping into the baking heat of a car sitting in the sun. It has always been one of my favorite feelings! No seriously, I love it. It warms me through to the seemingly eternal chill of my bones!
Friday, May 27, 2011
Happy Thought #6
One of my bests is getting married in 2 days. Heading down to VA to celebrate. Am reminded of how wonderful it is to love and be loved. This is what living is all about.
Back, and mostly unscathed!
GC and I returned from Mexico about two weeks ago (could it really be that long!?). We had a great, relaxing, beautiful time. From exploring ruins, to relaxing in the pool, to napping in our swing, and waking up to the sounds of jungle creatures in the middle of the night with GC there beside me, all and all, it was fabulous.
Apart from our journey to the hotel, which was more than a little frightening, we couldn't have asked for a better trip. A brief recap of our journey. It involved; a flight with one layover to Cancun (no biggie); a 5.5 hour bus ride to Chetumal, (again, no big deal); an accidental trip to Belize with a cab driver who could speak ZERO English, and couldn't read Spanish (awesome); a security check point that stopped us four times (because really, who goes to Belize for 15 minutes, expect people picking up drugs, dropping off drugs, picking up illegal aliens, dropping off illegal aliens, or dumb Americans who can't communicate with their cab driver); a long trip on a highway where the only words we could speak and be understood were aqui (here), izquierda (left), and derecha (right); a even longer trip on a small side road, riddled with crater-sized potholes, thick jungle on either side, and the occasional burning field in the distance, capped off with a giant (stopped) truck filled with no less than ten heavily armored Mexican Militia, all of whom hopped out of the truck to surround our now stopped taxi in the middle of night, in the middle of the jungle, for an undocumented "border check point"; a frantic cab driver who repeatedly said, "americanos! americanos!"; a wave on with a 3 foot long machine gun by one of the militia men whose expression clearly said, "give me a reason to pull the trigger"; and the final sighting of our hotel followed by an exuberant exclamation from our driver, "Arriba! Arribia!" as he gunned it up the hill where he hastily counted our (generously tipped) fare, shook our hands with "we've been through something together" enthusiasm, and disappeared into the night.
After that, it could only get more relaxing! Pictures to prove it.
Apart from our journey to the hotel, which was more than a little frightening, we couldn't have asked for a better trip. A brief recap of our journey. It involved; a flight with one layover to Cancun (no biggie); a 5.5 hour bus ride to Chetumal, (again, no big deal); an accidental trip to Belize with a cab driver who could speak ZERO English, and couldn't read Spanish (awesome); a security check point that stopped us four times (because really, who goes to Belize for 15 minutes, expect people picking up drugs, dropping off drugs, picking up illegal aliens, dropping off illegal aliens, or dumb Americans who can't communicate with their cab driver); a long trip on a highway where the only words we could speak and be understood were aqui (here), izquierda (left), and derecha (right); a even longer trip on a small side road, riddled with crater-sized potholes, thick jungle on either side, and the occasional burning field in the distance, capped off with a giant (stopped) truck filled with no less than ten heavily armored Mexican Militia, all of whom hopped out of the truck to surround our now stopped taxi in the middle of night, in the middle of the jungle, for an undocumented "border check point"; a frantic cab driver who repeatedly said, "americanos! americanos!"; a wave on with a 3 foot long machine gun by one of the militia men whose expression clearly said, "give me a reason to pull the trigger"; and the final sighting of our hotel followed by an exuberant exclamation from our driver, "Arriba! Arribia!" as he gunned it up the hill where he hastily counted our (generously tipped) fare, shook our hands with "we've been through something together" enthusiasm, and disappeared into the night.
After that, it could only get more relaxing! Pictures to prove it.
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| day 1, cancun airport! |
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| the bungalow |
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| our super private, right at the edge of the jungle, porch |
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| he's humoring me here. |
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| main room, looking out on the pool |
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| GC at Kohunlich ruins |
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| me, showing you how strong I am. |
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| I don't often misbehave (promise). |
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| kohunlich. |
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| more kohunlich |
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| I can only imagine this view in its hayday! |
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| main room |
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| the pool. |
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| our fantastic tour guide, herlan. seriously, he was awesome! |
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| super steep steps. |
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| on top of the temple. |
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| GC and I, taking in the sights! |
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Yucatan (You Can Tan?)
So GC and I are headed to Mexico next week! Yes, Mexico! And yes, next week!
I know this sounds sudden, but after numerous efforts to find a week in our calendars without a wedding, event, or work venture (it was a pathetic example of our over-scheduling problem) we decided to just go for it and booked a week at The Explorean Kohunlich.
This place looks fantastic and right up our alley, no internet, no TV, and a daily excursion into the Mayan Jungle where we can participate in nighttime kayak rides, tours of isolated ruins, and sailing on jungle lakes. Oh yeah, and the Bungalow. Did I forget to mention that? Silly me. We get our very own bungalow!
We'll experience a hard day of travel on either end of the trip, flying into Cancun and then taking a bus 5.5 hours to Chetumal in the middle of the Yucatan Jungle. Despite the long journey, the down time in the middle will be completely worth it.
In preparation for the trip, I made a bunch of visits to various destinations; the Salvation Army to pick up some lightweight pants that I won't mind wrecking, stops at a few drug stores to create our first aid kit (I had a little too much fun picking out band-aids and ice packs I think), a trip to the doctor to get my anti-malarial pills and Typhoid vaccine (Hepatitis A too), and then, I decided it might be fun to try on a bathing suit or two. Let's just say the shots were more fun. I felt a little more like this,
I know this sounds sudden, but after numerous efforts to find a week in our calendars without a wedding, event, or work venture (it was a pathetic example of our over-scheduling problem) we decided to just go for it and booked a week at The Explorean Kohunlich.
This place looks fantastic and right up our alley, no internet, no TV, and a daily excursion into the Mayan Jungle where we can participate in nighttime kayak rides, tours of isolated ruins, and sailing on jungle lakes. Oh yeah, and the Bungalow. Did I forget to mention that? Silly me. We get our very own bungalow!
We'll experience a hard day of travel on either end of the trip, flying into Cancun and then taking a bus 5.5 hours to Chetumal in the middle of the Yucatan Jungle. Despite the long journey, the down time in the middle will be completely worth it.
In preparation for the trip, I made a bunch of visits to various destinations; the Salvation Army to pick up some lightweight pants that I won't mind wrecking, stops at a few drug stores to create our first aid kit (I had a little too much fun picking out band-aids and ice packs I think), a trip to the doctor to get my anti-malarial pills and Typhoid vaccine (Hepatitis A too), and then, I decided it might be fun to try on a bathing suit or two. Let's just say the shots were more fun. I felt a little more like this,
and a little less like this.
It doesn't help that I am whiter than white. I joked in Jamaica as I lay next to the hoards of bronzed beach-goers, "Just lay next to me, you'll get a better tan from the light reflecting off my body!" A co-worker deemed it necessary to tell me that just because I'm going to the Yucatan, doesn't mean that You-Can-Tan. Trust me I know.
That said, I may not look like a swim suit model, and I may always grimace just a bit as I stare at my bathing suit-clad body under fluorescent lights in a department store (let's not kid ourselves, at Target) but overall, I'm pretty healthy. I eat well and try to exercise regularly. Sure, I may have a little bit of a self control problem when a bowl of homemade tortilla chips is placed front of me (as was the case last night), but so long as I don't do that too often, life's too short not to enjoy a few pleasures.
So I'll slather on the sunless tanner (and SPF 50 sunscreen), overcome the slight telltale scent of "no I can't tan naturally."and don my bathing suit with fair-skinned Irish (strong like bull and intended for heavy labor physique) pride, remembering that if I did have a tan, I'd look better than half the girls on the beach. :)
Apart from fair-skinned woes, books, puzzles, and our First Aid kit will comprise the greater majority of our suitcase. We'll pack light, but the true lessening of our load will be in the relieving of heavy, stressed spirits. I'm going to nap whenever the mood strikes me, and not feel even a little bit bad about it. Adios hermanos y hermanas!
Friday, April 22, 2011
Earth Day & Good Friday
Today is Earth Day and Good Friday. What an incredible combination for mindful living.
GC and I have struggled lately with going to church. Not on a philosophical level, but for seeming lack of time. Our weeks really take it out of us, so jammed packed are they with work, functions, appointments, and general socializing, not to mention the normal stuff like making sure the bathrooms are clean and the trash gets taken out. When the weekend does comes, Saturday is typically a continuation of the week with more events, leaving Sunday as our day to unplug (a.k.a. sleep in).
I never thought it possible, but I managed to marry someone who over schedules more than I do. GC's eagerness to experience everything he possibly can drives him to make an epic number of plans and commitments. Not to complain, most of those things are great opportunities and we have a lot of fun, but it doesn't leave a whole lot of time for rest and contemplation, two activities I find essential to maintaining my sanity.
We've both decided though, that with Easter upon us, quite possibly the most important holiday of our mutual faith, we're going to recommit to, "resting in the Lord" as my dad would say. We'll make it a constant in our lives and instead of viewing a morning service as burden, we'll rejoice that we can worship freely.
As for Earth Day, I don't tend to need a reason to care for my home planet. I'm one of those weirdos that's always felt a very real and tangible connection to the Earth and her seasons. That's not to say I cry and it rains (though that would be pretty freakin' awesome, just God help the world in my moments of wrath!) but I feel connected to the flow, to the predictable unpredictability of the rains and the growth, the storms and the calm seas, tide in tide out, sunrise sunset.
Recycling is second nature to me and I get frustrated when I hold an item in my hands and can find no place or way to recycle or reuse it. But I still try, often putting questionable items into our single stream container, because I just can't bear to put it in the trash, and recreating otherwise rundown objects into functional household items.
Despite being conscious of my impact, there are always ways you can do better. Case and point, last night as I scrubbed the shower, I held a container up to the shower head to gather some water for pouring onto the bath walls. I was shocked to see how quickly my 3-cup container filled! So, my new effort will be in reducing my water consumption for non-hydrating activities like doing the dishes, taking showers etc. We're blessed in this country with abundant sources of fresh water, I don't want to abuse the gift. Tomorrow, I'll head to the hardware store and grab a low-water faucet to replace the (soon to be recycled) current model. It's all about keeping her the blue planet!
So how about you? What steps are you going to take, today and moving forward, to live a more mindful existence? Maybe the first step is just letting the sun hit your face and allowing thankfulness for its warmth to flow through you. Then, capture that warm, grateful spirit and carry it with you into the world. It's funny how the more of that spirit you share, the greater your capacity to feel it yourself. Remember your blessings, and share them on this day of remembrance.
Be well.
GC and I have struggled lately with going to church. Not on a philosophical level, but for seeming lack of time. Our weeks really take it out of us, so jammed packed are they with work, functions, appointments, and general socializing, not to mention the normal stuff like making sure the bathrooms are clean and the trash gets taken out. When the weekend does comes, Saturday is typically a continuation of the week with more events, leaving Sunday as our day to unplug (a.k.a. sleep in).
I never thought it possible, but I managed to marry someone who over schedules more than I do. GC's eagerness to experience everything he possibly can drives him to make an epic number of plans and commitments. Not to complain, most of those things are great opportunities and we have a lot of fun, but it doesn't leave a whole lot of time for rest and contemplation, two activities I find essential to maintaining my sanity.
We've both decided though, that with Easter upon us, quite possibly the most important holiday of our mutual faith, we're going to recommit to, "resting in the Lord" as my dad would say. We'll make it a constant in our lives and instead of viewing a morning service as burden, we'll rejoice that we can worship freely.
As for Earth Day, I don't tend to need a reason to care for my home planet. I'm one of those weirdos that's always felt a very real and tangible connection to the Earth and her seasons. That's not to say I cry and it rains (though that would be pretty freakin' awesome, just God help the world in my moments of wrath!) but I feel connected to the flow, to the predictable unpredictability of the rains and the growth, the storms and the calm seas, tide in tide out, sunrise sunset.
Recycling is second nature to me and I get frustrated when I hold an item in my hands and can find no place or way to recycle or reuse it. But I still try, often putting questionable items into our single stream container, because I just can't bear to put it in the trash, and recreating otherwise rundown objects into functional household items.
Despite being conscious of my impact, there are always ways you can do better. Case and point, last night as I scrubbed the shower, I held a container up to the shower head to gather some water for pouring onto the bath walls. I was shocked to see how quickly my 3-cup container filled! So, my new effort will be in reducing my water consumption for non-hydrating activities like doing the dishes, taking showers etc. We're blessed in this country with abundant sources of fresh water, I don't want to abuse the gift. Tomorrow, I'll head to the hardware store and grab a low-water faucet to replace the (soon to be recycled) current model. It's all about keeping her the blue planet!
So how about you? What steps are you going to take, today and moving forward, to live a more mindful existence? Maybe the first step is just letting the sun hit your face and allowing thankfulness for its warmth to flow through you. Then, capture that warm, grateful spirit and carry it with you into the world. It's funny how the more of that spirit you share, the greater your capacity to feel it yourself. Remember your blessings, and share them on this day of remembrance.
Be well.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Happy Thought #5
Last night, GC and I went for a walk in the unseasonably warm evening hours. We found a great trail just behind our house and walked for over an hour. At the end, the skies opened, and the scent of first rain filled my soul with thoughts of summer rainstorms. I was glad we brought the umbrella, but more glad that we laughed and fought over who could hold the umbrella at a better angle for maximum coverage. It turns out, walking in rainstorms is more fun when you get a little wet :)
Red House Wine Tasting, Numero Uno
It was a hit! GC wow'd 'em with his enthusiastic and knowledgeable tasting notes, and the food went off beautifully. Without the help of my kitchen army (C-po and Rae), I never would have been able to accomplish it all, so thank you thank you. GC was also great at helping us get the place into shape, a team effort if ever I saw one! It turns out I made a more food than was necessary, (shocker!) but with every party I throw, I learn a few more great tricks.
This time, my lesson was in letting people help. When the guests started arriving at 7:00, everything was made, but only some of it plated (yikes). Instead of panicking, I gladly delegated the small tasks of cutting slider buns in half, placing crackers with the cheese, and putting flowers into vases, into the very capable hands of guests who'd asked, "What can I do?!" Within 10 minutes, all the little odds and ends were taken care of and people got to the business of enjoying themselves.
For our next event, I'll cut back a bit on the number of food options and hopefully some of the additional prep that goes with it, and focus on a few great dishes. For the record, it turns out both soups received rave reviews, the Portuguese Potato, Kale in particular, and the guests loved the cookies, both lacy and spicy chocolate. Also, it turns out you can never go wrong with a slider!
The wine was both delicious and entertaining. GC's idea for a wine mission scored high points with our guests, most of whom took their task of finding a 2007 Syrah seriously and trekked from wine store to wine store, searching for the right bottle. We even managed to garner the respect of one wine store employee in particular whose store guests visited about 8 times on Saturday requesting '07 Syrahs. Upon hearing the premise of our shindig, this employee slyly attempted to glean an invite! Our parties are in high demand people!
Pictures to come soon!
This time, my lesson was in letting people help. When the guests started arriving at 7:00, everything was made, but only some of it plated (yikes). Instead of panicking, I gladly delegated the small tasks of cutting slider buns in half, placing crackers with the cheese, and putting flowers into vases, into the very capable hands of guests who'd asked, "What can I do?!" Within 10 minutes, all the little odds and ends were taken care of and people got to the business of enjoying themselves.
For our next event, I'll cut back a bit on the number of food options and hopefully some of the additional prep that goes with it, and focus on a few great dishes. For the record, it turns out both soups received rave reviews, the Portuguese Potato, Kale in particular, and the guests loved the cookies, both lacy and spicy chocolate. Also, it turns out you can never go wrong with a slider!
The wine was both delicious and entertaining. GC's idea for a wine mission scored high points with our guests, most of whom took their task of finding a 2007 Syrah seriously and trekked from wine store to wine store, searching for the right bottle. We even managed to garner the respect of one wine store employee in particular whose store guests visited about 8 times on Saturday requesting '07 Syrahs. Upon hearing the premise of our shindig, this employee slyly attempted to glean an invite! Our parties are in high demand people!
Pictures to come soon!
Monday, April 11, 2011
Happy Thought #4
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