Tonight I was feeling a little sad. Daniel had organized his day of boardgames with various friends throughout the day. I was fine with that - and made plans accordingly. I decided to work today, run an errand after work, then go to the bookstore after dinner - read for hours then go to the gym to work out and watch Law & Order (one of my favourite things to do!). I have come to love the gym in an incredible way. Its my down time. And my time to watch all the cop shows/law shows that Daniel dislikes and which our crappy cable doesn't show at decent hours. I am of course too disorganized to tape them.
So while my carefully planned agenda fell through, it didn't turn out so bad after all. I ran my errand then decided to go out for a drink. Solo style, because sometimes I'm that kind of girl. I contemplated ringing one of my friends, but decided I felt like being alone. I went to The Wine Spot, sat at the swanky bar, and cradled my $11 glass ($13 inc tip) of wine and drank away my imagined sorrows. Although it was a pricey glass of wine, I figured my New Years Eve was way less expensive than 95% of the rest of the nations. At the bottom of the glass the imagined sorrows disappeared and my mood lightened. So I went home, chatted with the boys and made dinner. We had mexican. Mole, pinto bean brisket, salsa, spanish rice, flour tortilla's and all the sides that go along with that. It was a good hearty meal and we had some laughs. That is Daniel, me and his nerdy but lovable friends.
And now, its 10:30pm and I'm feeling a little lame for being so tired. I should be partying it up and feeling eager for the new year. Instead I'm eager for some sweet dreams. Southern California is no Sydney when it comes to New Years. We get no fireworks, views of fireworks and city lights. Instead its cold and nothing much is happening. I love fireworks so get disappointed every year when we don't have them. You'd think I'd be used to it by now, but I'm not. There's a little kid in all of us. In me I still have the part that gets excited about fireworks.
So New Years Resolutions? I don't have any really. I've given up on them. It probably sounds cynical - but hey, I'm 30 and allowed to give up on some things. As long as its not the important things. While there's no New Years Resolutions, I am excited for the new year and all that will come along with it. I'm excited to go to England next month to see my parents and to Paris for the first time. I've always wanted to go to Paris - and its finally happening. And moving home. I can finally say "this year we're moving home". It conjures up feelings of hope, excitement and relief. There's light at the end of the proverbial tunnel. By the time we leave I would have lived here 4.75 years. Thats 2.75 years more than I intended. Its been great here, it really has. You can be happy anywhere if you put your heart in it. I'm looking forward to the creature comforts of home though and feeling like I belong. I have a great group of friends here, people I love. A job I love. I wish I could take my job with me! There are things about America I'll miss to no end - and I probably won't be able to shut up about the place. Somehow a part of me still feels a little lost here. I wonder if Daniel will feel that same way in Australia. Maybe its just unavoidable. Maybe it'll be easier for him, since he's a guy and way more logical and sensible than me :) I hope so. I feel like I've given America my all. I am "super" grateful for this experience and for getting to know Daniel's family and be able to understand my husband better. I think we needed that.
So now I'm drinking chamomile tea and am about to watch "Sunset Boulevard". I think thats a great way to see the new year in.
May you all have a prosperous year - and may your first child, be a masculine one.
ps. If this post sounds too melancholy, you've probably been drinking too much.
pps. I probably don't drink enough. One glass of wine on new years? Lame.
Friday, December 31, 2010
Monday, August 9, 2010
Is this love, is this love, is this love that I'm feeling?
The weekend was pretty good. Mellow. I was boring and stayed home most of Saturday and ran a couple of errands. I'm not feeling much beach-love this year. Its cool here in Southern Cali this summer. I'm taking my disappointment out on the beach by not visiting it.
Yesterday we slept in then went to pick up our Grandma to spend the afternoon with her. We ate lunch, walked and engaged in nice conversation.
At night friend's had invited us over for dinner, so we had a lovely meal along with good company.
We're talking about throwing a 90's party. Most of our friends grew up in the 90's, so we thought it would be a fun dance party. In our small apartment? Maybe.
I'm listening to 90's music now :)
I'm loving a bit of this right now:-
Yesterday we slept in then went to pick up our Grandma to spend the afternoon with her. We ate lunch, walked and engaged in nice conversation.
At night friend's had invited us over for dinner, so we had a lovely meal along with good company.
We're talking about throwing a 90's party. Most of our friends grew up in the 90's, so we thought it would be a fun dance party. In our small apartment? Maybe.
I'm listening to 90's music now :)
I'm loving a bit of this right now:-
Saturday, July 24, 2010
The Big 3-0
I turned 30 today. I had mixed feelings about turning 30. Mostly because of things other people were saying. Some people say things such as "ah, you're getting old". Others say "the 30's were my best years". I suppose that mixed with feelings of "yes, I'm getting older, and the signs are starting to show", "I'm not a young 20-something kid anymore", "did I do all that I had hoped and dreamed of in my 20's?". People have a lot to say on turning another decade, which enhanced my mildly nervous feelings.
Well. I woke up this morning full of anticipation and excitement. Maybe not the full blown excitement, enthusiasm and adrenalin I was filled with at 20 years old. No, these days its more subtle. Perhaps more bridled. I think the the responsibilities of life set in somewhat. Its true, you grow older and get a little more serious about life. While I promised myself I'd never be that person on the bus in a black suit on my way to work looking bored with my lot in life, I can now understand how the responsibilities of life wear some people down. I feel that just a little. But I'm pleased to say I still get excited about the little things. I still find humour in the small things and get giddy about life. I think its a mixture of personality types and what life throws at some people. I think I have the personality type where I'll never truly be "old". I really hope not anyway.
So. I have been thinking about what I want to accomplish in my 30's. I want to stay fit and healthy. Keep up my walks, running and going swimming, bike riding. I want to continue to eat well. I want to have a small house with a veranda, a ping pong table out the back, a back yard, and to live simply. I'd love a dog to play with. Daniel and I want to travel to South America. I'd like to work less and be in full time service again. I can't wait to travel Western Australia properly. Take Daniel to the gorges. Take him to see the most beautiful beaches I've ever seen in my life. I hope he can experience what I grew up around. The karri forests, going on rural witnessing trips into the outback. Camping under the stars on the most uninhabited beaches. I hope to introduce him to the feel of Australia that I love so much. I hope he "feels" what I do there. I'd like to live near our closest friends and dwell in each others good company. Sharing many laughs and our lives with those we love the most. I'd like my Mum to live near me so we can go out for coffee's together. Do our weekly grocery shopping together. Cultivate some common interests together again. I miss my Mum. We've drifted apart over time, and I long to feel close again. I'd like to find a job I enjoy. I'm a little lost there. I've always wanted to get into journalism. Food for bloody good thought ;)
So, thats some of my hopes and dreams for the next decade. I might mentally update those thoughts, and maybe even update them in this blog. But don't hold your 20-something year old breath ;)
Well. I woke up this morning full of anticipation and excitement. Maybe not the full blown excitement, enthusiasm and adrenalin I was filled with at 20 years old. No, these days its more subtle. Perhaps more bridled. I think the the responsibilities of life set in somewhat. Its true, you grow older and get a little more serious about life. While I promised myself I'd never be that person on the bus in a black suit on my way to work looking bored with my lot in life, I can now understand how the responsibilities of life wear some people down. I feel that just a little. But I'm pleased to say I still get excited about the little things. I still find humour in the small things and get giddy about life. I think its a mixture of personality types and what life throws at some people. I think I have the personality type where I'll never truly be "old". I really hope not anyway.
So. I have been thinking about what I want to accomplish in my 30's. I want to stay fit and healthy. Keep up my walks, running and going swimming, bike riding. I want to continue to eat well. I want to have a small house with a veranda, a ping pong table out the back, a back yard, and to live simply. I'd love a dog to play with. Daniel and I want to travel to South America. I'd like to work less and be in full time service again. I can't wait to travel Western Australia properly. Take Daniel to the gorges. Take him to see the most beautiful beaches I've ever seen in my life. I hope he can experience what I grew up around. The karri forests, going on rural witnessing trips into the outback. Camping under the stars on the most uninhabited beaches. I hope to introduce him to the feel of Australia that I love so much. I hope he "feels" what I do there. I'd like to live near our closest friends and dwell in each others good company. Sharing many laughs and our lives with those we love the most. I'd like my Mum to live near me so we can go out for coffee's together. Do our weekly grocery shopping together. Cultivate some common interests together again. I miss my Mum. We've drifted apart over time, and I long to feel close again. I'd like to find a job I enjoy. I'm a little lost there. I've always wanted to get into journalism. Food for bloody good thought ;)
So, thats some of my hopes and dreams for the next decade. I might mentally update those thoughts, and maybe even update them in this blog. But don't hold your 20-something year old breath ;)
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
I have no plans to eat anyone!
Today my new monitor came in. At work I was using my laptop for the longest time. About a week ago I told my boss I needed a bigger monitor as I was struggling with the laptop size screen. He ordered me a 21" monitor. I was expecting something mid-range, but - being a tech guy, my boss ordered me a top of the line model! Nice! So I'm very happy at work right now! I'm super excited about this monitor.
The weekend was fun. I drove my Mum up to LA on Sunday morning. We hit the Long Beach Markets. I found a cute vintage dress for $15 and a pair of art-deco earrings for $5. Not bad! After that we went to In'N'Out for lunch - my Mum really enjoyed it (whats not to enjoy?). After that we visited Griffith Park Observatory. There was no parking, it was packed. An older couple walked to their car. I stalked them, put my indicator on and waited. They took their merry time. No problem. Another car pulls up about 5 minutes later and puts on its indicator. I had my Mum tell them I was waiting first. They still didn't move. The old couple eventually left their spot, and the other car slid into the parking spot! Please note: I had been driving up and all around LA that day. It was a hot and humid day. I had a headache. So, keeping all that in mind... I got out of my car and knocked on the window of the rude car. The man rolled down his window. I politely told him I'd been waiting about 15 minutes and was there first. The man says "I've been waiting a long time!" "not as long as me sir, you need to move your car". It was pretty funny. I was nice about it, but at the same time in no mood to be walked over. My Mum laughed in disbelief at her headstrong daughter. Anyway, Mum got her view of the Hollywood sign and I felt good that I hadn't caved.
After our visit to Griffith Park Observatory we went to Aroma Cafe in Studio City for a refreshment and escape from the hot weather. I soon realised Aroma Cafe is where the beautiful people and the wannabe actors/writers go. Did I feel out of place? No, I drank it all in - along with my decaf iced coffee.
We then drove around Beverly Hills, Rodeo Drive. I decided I couldn't miss the Renoir exhibition. Mum walked around the gardens at the La Brea Tar Pit while I indulged in 1.5 hours of beautiful artwork. I spent the extra money to have the audio tour. So interesting. I loved it. Renoir's pieces shown were from his later years when he was moving away from impressionism. Most impressionists are known for their landscapes, whereas Renoir focused on people. I was particularly moved by how "real" some of the paintings are. He captured people's expressions perfectly. Its as if you are sitting in the room with some of his subject matters. My favourite painting there was "Young Mother". Its not one of his most famous paintings, but it was in my top 5. I love the expression on the Mother's face. She looks besotted with her child and as though nothing else would be able to capture her attention. I had a couple of other favourites, one being "Two Young Girls at the Piano". The audio explanation of that painting was very interesting. There were about 60 of his paintings at the exhibition!
After the exhibition I found my Mum and took her to Lala's for dinner. Nighttime: we slept well in our hotel room. Then yesterday we slept in and went to Santa Monica for breakfast. In the afternoon we drove out to Pasadena and went to the Hungington Library/Gardens. It blew me away. I can't believe I've never been there before now! I loved every part of it. There are a set of gardens which are "Australian". As you walk in, you feel like you're in the Australian bush. I took a pepi leaf and a gum tree leaf. I was surrounded by these trees and bottle brushes. Each garden is quite big and I couldn't see any other gardens once in the Australian garden. A wave of emotion swept over me as I stood in the middle of the aussie garden. I felt like I was home while there. I started to cry and quickly slid my Ray Bans over my eyes and securely onto my nose. Mum didn't see, which I was grateful for. I wish I could take Anna there, or that we'd been there sooner.
Last night we got home and Daniel and I watched "Where the Wild Things Are" for the first time. I didn't think I'd like it. I was wrong. Its fabulous! Watch it, I know you'll love it.
And today I'm at work. I'm quite happy to be at work, catching up on things. Friday we leave for Yosemite. After that I'll be saving my vacation time back up for a trip to NYC in September!
The weekend was fun. I drove my Mum up to LA on Sunday morning. We hit the Long Beach Markets. I found a cute vintage dress for $15 and a pair of art-deco earrings for $5. Not bad! After that we went to In'N'Out for lunch - my Mum really enjoyed it (whats not to enjoy?). After that we visited Griffith Park Observatory. There was no parking, it was packed. An older couple walked to their car. I stalked them, put my indicator on and waited. They took their merry time. No problem. Another car pulls up about 5 minutes later and puts on its indicator. I had my Mum tell them I was waiting first. They still didn't move. The old couple eventually left their spot, and the other car slid into the parking spot! Please note: I had been driving up and all around LA that day. It was a hot and humid day. I had a headache. So, keeping all that in mind... I got out of my car and knocked on the window of the rude car. The man rolled down his window. I politely told him I'd been waiting about 15 minutes and was there first. The man says "I've been waiting a long time!" "not as long as me sir, you need to move your car". It was pretty funny. I was nice about it, but at the same time in no mood to be walked over. My Mum laughed in disbelief at her headstrong daughter. Anyway, Mum got her view of the Hollywood sign and I felt good that I hadn't caved.
After our visit to Griffith Park Observatory we went to Aroma Cafe in Studio City for a refreshment and escape from the hot weather. I soon realised Aroma Cafe is where the beautiful people and the wannabe actors/writers go. Did I feel out of place? No, I drank it all in - along with my decaf iced coffee.
We then drove around Beverly Hills, Rodeo Drive. I decided I couldn't miss the Renoir exhibition. Mum walked around the gardens at the La Brea Tar Pit while I indulged in 1.5 hours of beautiful artwork. I spent the extra money to have the audio tour. So interesting. I loved it. Renoir's pieces shown were from his later years when he was moving away from impressionism. Most impressionists are known for their landscapes, whereas Renoir focused on people. I was particularly moved by how "real" some of the paintings are. He captured people's expressions perfectly. Its as if you are sitting in the room with some of his subject matters. My favourite painting there was "Young Mother". Its not one of his most famous paintings, but it was in my top 5. I love the expression on the Mother's face. She looks besotted with her child and as though nothing else would be able to capture her attention. I had a couple of other favourites, one being "Two Young Girls at the Piano". The audio explanation of that painting was very interesting. There were about 60 of his paintings at the exhibition!
After the exhibition I found my Mum and took her to Lala's for dinner. Nighttime: we slept well in our hotel room. Then yesterday we slept in and went to Santa Monica for breakfast. In the afternoon we drove out to Pasadena and went to the Hungington Library/Gardens. It blew me away. I can't believe I've never been there before now! I loved every part of it. There are a set of gardens which are "Australian". As you walk in, you feel like you're in the Australian bush. I took a pepi leaf and a gum tree leaf. I was surrounded by these trees and bottle brushes. Each garden is quite big and I couldn't see any other gardens once in the Australian garden. A wave of emotion swept over me as I stood in the middle of the aussie garden. I felt like I was home while there. I started to cry and quickly slid my Ray Bans over my eyes and securely onto my nose. Mum didn't see, which I was grateful for. I wish I could take Anna there, or that we'd been there sooner.
Last night we got home and Daniel and I watched "Where the Wild Things Are" for the first time. I didn't think I'd like it. I was wrong. Its fabulous! Watch it, I know you'll love it.
And today I'm at work. I'm quite happy to be at work, catching up on things. Friday we leave for Yosemite. After that I'll be saving my vacation time back up for a trip to NYC in September!
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Shoes
I'm a shoe girl through-and-through. These are some that I'm loving at the moment:-
These shoes are darling, and would look lovely with my navy blue dresses!
These clogs aren't quite the *Alexa Chung* clogs we're seeing around, (which I'm not quite into). But they are close enough, and look more comfortable for walking. These would look great with my floral dresses!
The next two pairs of shoes are very 1940's looking. I'm in love. They would be beautiful paired with vintage dresses or skirt & blouse.
Watch this space!
Jones.
These shoes are darling, and would look lovely with my navy blue dresses!
These clogs aren't quite the *Alexa Chung* clogs we're seeing around, (which I'm not quite into). But they are close enough, and look more comfortable for walking. These would look great with my floral dresses!
The next two pairs of shoes are very 1940's looking. I'm in love. They would be beautiful paired with vintage dresses or skirt & blouse.
Watch this space!
Jones.
In a Moment
Last night I was sitting home, reading some things my Australian friends had said about me just before my wedding. Things that made me smile and miss them very much. I was thinking about how I miss my close-close friends.
Today my friend Maureen visited me at work to drop off a present from a close friend in New York (my sweet Aussie friend Anna). The present meant more than words can... Maureen and Anna had chosen the gift together. I absolutely love the gift, it fits perfectly. Its a little dress from Anthropologie - and is very cute. Exciting huh?! I'm mostly touched by all the thought that went into that. I took a walk to Starbucks and couldn't stop thinking about it, I huge smile on my face. I felt pretty lucky. It made my californian day.
I discovered Ben & Jerry's the other day. I had it for the first time ever! (I know... I've been living in the US for 3 years, and **just** had Ben & Jerry's...?!!). I was holding off, knowing it would be addictive, not sure of the effect discovering it would have. I had the "Everything but the kitchen sink" tub, and yes - I demolished *almost* the whole tub. It was insane good. Crazy good. Wanting-to-scream it was so good. While this is a great discovery, it also poses a lot of problems. Next time I'm upset... guess what I'll grab! My friend Ciara tells me when she's upset she'll go to the store, buy a tub of Ben & Jerry's and eat the tub. I suggested we call each other up to share that tub. **
** For the Australian readers, please note, a tub of Ben & Jerry's isn't all that huge. Not like a 2L tub of icecream. A side note, you should come to America, not just to see me, but to have every flavour of Ben & Jerry's until find your holy grail tub.
Today my friend Maureen visited me at work to drop off a present from a close friend in New York (my sweet Aussie friend Anna). The present meant more than words can... Maureen and Anna had chosen the gift together. I absolutely love the gift, it fits perfectly. Its a little dress from Anthropologie - and is very cute. Exciting huh?! I'm mostly touched by all the thought that went into that. I took a walk to Starbucks and couldn't stop thinking about it, I huge smile on my face. I felt pretty lucky. It made my californian day.
I discovered Ben & Jerry's the other day. I had it for the first time ever! (I know... I've been living in the US for 3 years, and **just** had Ben & Jerry's...?!!). I was holding off, knowing it would be addictive, not sure of the effect discovering it would have. I had the "Everything but the kitchen sink" tub, and yes - I demolished *almost* the whole tub. It was insane good. Crazy good. Wanting-to-scream it was so good. While this is a great discovery, it also poses a lot of problems. Next time I'm upset... guess what I'll grab! My friend Ciara tells me when she's upset she'll go to the store, buy a tub of Ben & Jerry's and eat the tub. I suggested we call each other up to share that tub. **
** For the Australian readers, please note, a tub of Ben & Jerry's isn't all that huge. Not like a 2L tub of icecream. A side note, you should come to America, not just to see me, but to have every flavour of Ben & Jerry's until find your holy grail tub.
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Strange Day
Today I felt my first earthquake. There have been small ones since I've lived here. But this is the first one I've noticed. Usually we sleep through them. The last one which hit Julian woke Daniel up at 2am. That was a few weeks back, and was only a small earthquake.
Today was the 7.2 magnitude earthquake in Mexico. I was sitting in my living room, sorting through a cabinet, and suddenly I felt dizzy... everything seemed to be spinning. I thought I was going to be sick and stood up to see if that helped. Lo and behold, our windows were shaking, our building was shaking. It was an earthquake. We ran downstairs with our disaster preparedness kit. You're meant to stay inside, under a table. But our table is next to our window - no good. I figure I don't want to be inside when an earthquake happens. We're on the second storey in our apartments, and I worry it will crash down, and we'll end up in a pile of rubble. Is that me worrying or what...?! Only last week we finally received our disaster preparedness kit in the mail. I'm so glad we spent the money and got one. We have been being advised to get one for quite some time. I bit the bullet and did it. Today we were glad for it! (just in case!). The earthquake was a very strange experience. I felt odd for hours after it. Dizzy and misplaced. It freaked me out.
That aside, it was a great day. Daniel and I slept in then went out for breakfast. We both ordered pancakes which were gi-normous! I'll post pictures of them another day. After a nice breakfast out together we walked through the village, then came home and did housework all day. It was nice to spend the day together, even if it was doing housework :) I felt like we accomplished a lot today. Tonight we were meant to go salsa dancing with friends, but were too tired. We stayed home instead playing a boardgame and listening to jazz music.
I don't know if I mentioned it on my blog, but I've had chronic shoulder pain for 2-3 months now. I had an MRI on it, to rule out a tear. Thankfully it wasn't a tear! I'm very glad about that! My doctor sent me to physical therapy and its been diagnosed as tendonitis. The tendonitis is secondary to the real problem which is hypermobility. Its kind of boring, so I won't explain what hypermobility is. Its a condition that is causing the tendonitis - which is inflammation of the tendons in the shoulder - thats the pain I'm getting. So, basically I have to go to physical therapy for a couple of months, do exercises/weights/stretches/icing my shoulder every single night (for a couple of months) until I've strengthened my shoulders up. I'm fine with it. Besides, I might get those buff arms I always wanted :) I'm just so happy that I'm starting to feel relief from the shoulder. The constant pain is/has been doing my head in.
Daniel and I went to a 20th wedding anniversary party last night for good friends. The couple are so lovely, still in love and still get a kick out of each other. I love that. They're fun to be around. It was a mexican fiesta with catered mexican food and spanish/mexican music which we danced to later in the evening. Much fun was had.
Friday night I went to Jill's house for a chilled evening chatting, eating pizza and playing Rock Band.
My Mum arrives Wednesday night from England. Very excited. Its been 1.5 years since I last saw her. Let the festivities begin.
jones
Today was the 7.2 magnitude earthquake in Mexico. I was sitting in my living room, sorting through a cabinet, and suddenly I felt dizzy... everything seemed to be spinning. I thought I was going to be sick and stood up to see if that helped. Lo and behold, our windows were shaking, our building was shaking. It was an earthquake. We ran downstairs with our disaster preparedness kit. You're meant to stay inside, under a table. But our table is next to our window - no good. I figure I don't want to be inside when an earthquake happens. We're on the second storey in our apartments, and I worry it will crash down, and we'll end up in a pile of rubble. Is that me worrying or what...?! Only last week we finally received our disaster preparedness kit in the mail. I'm so glad we spent the money and got one. We have been being advised to get one for quite some time. I bit the bullet and did it. Today we were glad for it! (just in case!). The earthquake was a very strange experience. I felt odd for hours after it. Dizzy and misplaced. It freaked me out.
That aside, it was a great day. Daniel and I slept in then went out for breakfast. We both ordered pancakes which were gi-normous! I'll post pictures of them another day. After a nice breakfast out together we walked through the village, then came home and did housework all day. It was nice to spend the day together, even if it was doing housework :) I felt like we accomplished a lot today. Tonight we were meant to go salsa dancing with friends, but were too tired. We stayed home instead playing a boardgame and listening to jazz music.
I don't know if I mentioned it on my blog, but I've had chronic shoulder pain for 2-3 months now. I had an MRI on it, to rule out a tear. Thankfully it wasn't a tear! I'm very glad about that! My doctor sent me to physical therapy and its been diagnosed as tendonitis. The tendonitis is secondary to the real problem which is hypermobility. Its kind of boring, so I won't explain what hypermobility is. Its a condition that is causing the tendonitis - which is inflammation of the tendons in the shoulder - thats the pain I'm getting. So, basically I have to go to physical therapy for a couple of months, do exercises/weights/stretches/icing my shoulder every single night (for a couple of months) until I've strengthened my shoulders up. I'm fine with it. Besides, I might get those buff arms I always wanted :) I'm just so happy that I'm starting to feel relief from the shoulder. The constant pain is/has been doing my head in.
Daniel and I went to a 20th wedding anniversary party last night for good friends. The couple are so lovely, still in love and still get a kick out of each other. I love that. They're fun to be around. It was a mexican fiesta with catered mexican food and spanish/mexican music which we danced to later in the evening. Much fun was had.
Friday night I went to Jill's house for a chilled evening chatting, eating pizza and playing Rock Band.
My Mum arrives Wednesday night from England. Very excited. Its been 1.5 years since I last saw her. Let the festivities begin.
jones
Friday, March 5, 2010
Friday
Tonight we're going to a friend's house for a bit of a dance party and a catchup. It'll be nice. It's at my friend Jill's house. It'll be nice to catch up with friends we haven't seen since our NYC friends left.
At lunch I rode my bike home to have an icey pole and watch some daytime tv for an hour. I rode back to work and realized I was wearing only one earring :( This means one of two things. 1) I lost the earring while riding my bike 2) I lost my earring at home while changing my sweater. Here's hoping its the latter :)
I'm really looking forward to the weekend. I think tomorrow will be a cruisy one and Sunday night we're going to a friend's house for dinner and to watch the Oscars. I'd like to see Alice in Wonderland at cinema maybe... Its meant to rain all weekend, so we'll see how the afternoons pan out.
Last night "Marriage Ref" - Jerry Seinfeld's new show aired for the first time. It was hil-larious!!! Daniel and I were laughing so hard we almost cried. I can tell its going to be a weekly instalment in our tv watching schedule.
TGIF... thank goodness its Friday ;)
At lunch I rode my bike home to have an icey pole and watch some daytime tv for an hour. I rode back to work and realized I was wearing only one earring :( This means one of two things. 1) I lost the earring while riding my bike 2) I lost my earring at home while changing my sweater. Here's hoping its the latter :)
I'm really looking forward to the weekend. I think tomorrow will be a cruisy one and Sunday night we're going to a friend's house for dinner and to watch the Oscars. I'd like to see Alice in Wonderland at cinema maybe... Its meant to rain all weekend, so we'll see how the afternoons pan out.
Last night "Marriage Ref" - Jerry Seinfeld's new show aired for the first time. It was hil-larious!!! Daniel and I were laughing so hard we almost cried. I can tell its going to be a weekly instalment in our tv watching schedule.
TGIF... thank goodness its Friday ;)
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
New Faves
Band: Wilco. How had I never heard of these guys before???!!! I was recently introduced to them by a friend. Loving them!
Flax oatmeal (porridge) with peanut butter. The peanut butter melts into the oatmal. Unbelievable.
Trader Joe's. Ok. I've known about Trader Joe's for a while. But recently I've been getting more adventurous there. Everything at Trader's is SO good! We tried some chocolate covered pomegranate seeds the other day (with icecream) and it was heaven in a bowl.
Curbing my sugar addiction (which is out of control!) For the last month I've been snacking on apples, crackers. Cutting out all processed foods. Nothing with High Fructose Corn Syrup. No fun sweet snacks or chips etc. Eating complex carbohydrates, fresh and whole foods. I'm feeling 10 x better. I haven't felt sluggish in weeks. I've managed to survive my husband getting really sick with colds/flues (twice in 2 months) and not get sick. Motivation: feeling good. It might sound boring to skip normal pasta and go for organic rice bran pasta. Or skip cheetos and eat an apple with a little peanut butter. But wow I feel good. You are what you eat.
Anything military inspired (clothing). I love a tough/edgy look, although what I end up wearing always borders on the cute side (argh). I think it has something to do with being 5'4".
Wellington boots aka gumboots aka rain boots. I bought some quite a while back. While it doesn't rain much in Southern California, I get all excited when it does. I know I can splash about in the rain and not be worried about my precious shoes. Gum boots are a lot of fun. One day I'll have to wear them a lot in Sydney where we get torrential downpours in winter and just before summer (think tropical weather).
Flax oatmeal (porridge) with peanut butter. The peanut butter melts into the oatmal. Unbelievable.
Trader Joe's. Ok. I've known about Trader Joe's for a while. But recently I've been getting more adventurous there. Everything at Trader's is SO good! We tried some chocolate covered pomegranate seeds the other day (with icecream) and it was heaven in a bowl.
Curbing my sugar addiction (which is out of control!) For the last month I've been snacking on apples, crackers. Cutting out all processed foods. Nothing with High Fructose Corn Syrup. No fun sweet snacks or chips etc. Eating complex carbohydrates, fresh and whole foods. I'm feeling 10 x better. I haven't felt sluggish in weeks. I've managed to survive my husband getting really sick with colds/flues (twice in 2 months) and not get sick. Motivation: feeling good. It might sound boring to skip normal pasta and go for organic rice bran pasta. Or skip cheetos and eat an apple with a little peanut butter. But wow I feel good. You are what you eat.
Anything military inspired (clothing). I love a tough/edgy look, although what I end up wearing always borders on the cute side (argh). I think it has something to do with being 5'4".
Wellington boots aka gumboots aka rain boots. I bought some quite a while back. While it doesn't rain much in Southern California, I get all excited when it does. I know I can splash about in the rain and not be worried about my precious shoes. Gum boots are a lot of fun. One day I'll have to wear them a lot in Sydney where we get torrential downpours in winter and just before summer (think tropical weather).
Thursday, February 18, 2010
2 Things I hate (yes hate) about America
There are many many more things I love about America than dislike. So don't think I'm about to write a blog post about how much I hate America - because thats not the case. Its not a love/hate relationship I have with this country. Its mostly love, 90% dislike and 0.05% hate. The two things I am on the verge of hating in America are the DMV and USPS.
Government run businesses so dirty and cold here. Places are understaffed, which means the employees are mean and grumpy a lot of the time (and sometimes scary).
Wait time USPS: 1 hour. There is always a line out the door and only 2 clerks serving. If I want to pick up a package or post something, it usually takes up my entire lunch hour.
DMV: 4 hours, 20 minutes. I'm not kidding. Yesterday was my day off and I needed to get a temporary drivers license until my new Green Card arrives. I have letters from the Department of Immigration saying I'm now a resident for the next 10 years (yadda yadda yadda). I get to the front of the line at 10:30am yesterday and am told by the lady that the DMV will not accept my documentation, they need a Green Card. "But... I've been approved as a Resident, I have the paperwork. It can take 60 days to receive the card in the mail. These letters explain the card will be arriving." "No... thats not good enough. Next please". I didn't know what to do, so went outside and rang my husband. He told me to go back and speak with a Manager. I had to wait an hour to speak with a Manager. The Manager told me that my documentation is fine, and the lady was wrong. Ok. I went back into line to get another ticket. Wait time: 3 hours. 3pm my ticket gets called and it takes 2 minutes to get a temporary drivers license.
Murphy's Law: I get home and my Green Card arrived in the mail!
The good: I had time to read my 2010 yearbook so that gave me some peaceful thoughts :) In between waiting I walked to Starbucks for an hour. Came back to the DMV... still had another 2 hours to wait. So walked over to a Japanese restaurant for sushi & miso soup. I told my husband to log it in our expense account as "Visa Expenses".
So, that was my day off. The DMV is an interesting place. Not in a good way. I felt like I was in prison while sitting in there. I went outside, but there were lots of smokers and gross old men checking me out. Next stop... Starbucks.
I don't like to compare Australia to the US often. Sometimes I miss little things though, like Australia Post where its colourful, nicely carpeted, usually fully staffed and the staff are nice and friendly. Drivers License: I've never waited more than 45 minutes to get it renewed.
Government run businesses so dirty and cold here. Places are understaffed, which means the employees are mean and grumpy a lot of the time (and sometimes scary).
Wait time USPS: 1 hour. There is always a line out the door and only 2 clerks serving. If I want to pick up a package or post something, it usually takes up my entire lunch hour.
DMV: 4 hours, 20 minutes. I'm not kidding. Yesterday was my day off and I needed to get a temporary drivers license until my new Green Card arrives. I have letters from the Department of Immigration saying I'm now a resident for the next 10 years (yadda yadda yadda). I get to the front of the line at 10:30am yesterday and am told by the lady that the DMV will not accept my documentation, they need a Green Card. "But... I've been approved as a Resident, I have the paperwork. It can take 60 days to receive the card in the mail. These letters explain the card will be arriving." "No... thats not good enough. Next please". I didn't know what to do, so went outside and rang my husband. He told me to go back and speak with a Manager. I had to wait an hour to speak with a Manager. The Manager told me that my documentation is fine, and the lady was wrong. Ok. I went back into line to get another ticket. Wait time: 3 hours. 3pm my ticket gets called and it takes 2 minutes to get a temporary drivers license.
Murphy's Law: I get home and my Green Card arrived in the mail!
The good: I had time to read my 2010 yearbook so that gave me some peaceful thoughts :) In between waiting I walked to Starbucks for an hour. Came back to the DMV... still had another 2 hours to wait. So walked over to a Japanese restaurant for sushi & miso soup. I told my husband to log it in our expense account as "Visa Expenses".
So, that was my day off. The DMV is an interesting place. Not in a good way. I felt like I was in prison while sitting in there. I went outside, but there were lots of smokers and gross old men checking me out. Next stop... Starbucks.
I don't like to compare Australia to the US often. Sometimes I miss little things though, like Australia Post where its colourful, nicely carpeted, usually fully staffed and the staff are nice and friendly. Drivers License: I've never waited more than 45 minutes to get it renewed.
Monday, February 15, 2010
LA
Last night my husband and I got back from a weekend in Los Angeles. He went to a boardgame convention and I did **whatever**. It was just what I needed, a getaway, to help me appreciate where we live. It was nice having a change of pace and scenery. I took the day off on Friday to sleep in and take it easy in the morning. We left for LA at 2pm Friday... got to our hotel and chilled for a while. We had a nice big king size bed which was a treat. Sometimes we talk about getting a king size bed one day, but then we wouldn't get so excited about hotels. I suppose it sounds pretty juvenile getting excited to stay in a hotel and having a king size bed, but I like my space. I like to roll over and still have room either side of me. Its nice not to have everything sometimes, then you can still get excited about the supposed little things.
I was on a pretty tight budget in LA which I stuck to (just!). I spent a lot of it eating out. Friday night Daniel and I went to this beer/sausage restaurant in downtown LA. Its become our new favourite haunt. Between Belgian and German beers... gourmet sausages paired with hotdog-rolls and a choice of onions/bell pepper/sweet peppers and sauerkraut - it makes for a wonderful meal.
Saturday morning I took it easy and drove over to Santa Monica for a morning of fresh air, people watching and a nice stroll on 3rd Street Promenade. I had breakfast at Starbucks of all places. After the beer & sausage shenanigans the night before my stomach could only handle a small breakfast of oatmeal and a latte. I just love Santa Monica. That afternoon I joined my friends in North Hollywood. It took me an hour to battle traffic from Santa Monica to North Hollywood! Usually it would take 30 minutes max (according to the trusty GPS). We went to lunch with a friend in Studio City for the most amazing sandwiches. The name of the cafe is "Aroma Cafe". The cakes, muffins and pastries looked divine. I'm definitely taking Daniel there! That night we hung out with friends Larramy & Letty and went to a Tiki bar for drinks which was nice and relaxing.
Sunday was Rose Bowl. Unfortunately my heart just wasn't in it. It was hot and crowded and I wasn't really in the mood for shopping. I was more in the mood for going for a bikeride or visiting a museum. Oh well, you can't plan your general mood for the day huh:) Nevertheless it was fun to look at different things. After Rose Bowl we got somewhat lost and finally made our way to old Pasadena and had a late lunch at Barney's Beanery. By that time we were tired and good beer helped some.
So, that was the weekend! It was nice to hang out with friends and see some different spots. Today I'm back at work. Its beautiful here in Southern California today. Its warm and sunny with only the slightest hint of crispness in the air. I went for a long walk on the beach at lunch and am now nursing an iced coffee which serves the purpose of cooling me down after power walking. My power walking was much less impressive than it sounds, believe me.
I was on a pretty tight budget in LA which I stuck to (just!). I spent a lot of it eating out. Friday night Daniel and I went to this beer/sausage restaurant in downtown LA. Its become our new favourite haunt. Between Belgian and German beers... gourmet sausages paired with hotdog-rolls and a choice of onions/bell pepper/sweet peppers and sauerkraut - it makes for a wonderful meal.
Saturday morning I took it easy and drove over to Santa Monica for a morning of fresh air, people watching and a nice stroll on 3rd Street Promenade. I had breakfast at Starbucks of all places. After the beer & sausage shenanigans the night before my stomach could only handle a small breakfast of oatmeal and a latte. I just love Santa Monica. That afternoon I joined my friends in North Hollywood. It took me an hour to battle traffic from Santa Monica to North Hollywood! Usually it would take 30 minutes max (according to the trusty GPS). We went to lunch with a friend in Studio City for the most amazing sandwiches. The name of the cafe is "Aroma Cafe". The cakes, muffins and pastries looked divine. I'm definitely taking Daniel there! That night we hung out with friends Larramy & Letty and went to a Tiki bar for drinks which was nice and relaxing.
Sunday was Rose Bowl. Unfortunately my heart just wasn't in it. It was hot and crowded and I wasn't really in the mood for shopping. I was more in the mood for going for a bikeride or visiting a museum. Oh well, you can't plan your general mood for the day huh:) Nevertheless it was fun to look at different things. After Rose Bowl we got somewhat lost and finally made our way to old Pasadena and had a late lunch at Barney's Beanery. By that time we were tired and good beer helped some.
So, that was the weekend! It was nice to hang out with friends and see some different spots. Today I'm back at work. Its beautiful here in Southern California today. Its warm and sunny with only the slightest hint of crispness in the air. I went for a long walk on the beach at lunch and am now nursing an iced coffee which serves the purpose of cooling me down after power walking. My power walking was much less impressive than it sounds, believe me.
Monday, January 25, 2010
A Conscience
The other day my friend J and I had a great conversation about what we put into our bodies and what we put on our bodies (face creams etc). J had just watched the movie Food Inc.
I'm eager to see the movie. I have been thinking a lot about our conversation. My grandparents (my Mum's parents) both died in their mid-60's of breast/bone cancer and a brain tumor. I miss them both, and I worry about the history of cancer in my family.
I'm not someone who will ever be fanatical about what I put in my body, or on my body. I simply do not have that sort of discipline. I wish I did. I admire people who can stick to a regime of organic foods only and exercising 3-5 times a week. I'm someone who puts in an effort every day to eat well and exercise regularly. But I also slip up. However, I figure all my efforts will add up over the years and are a lot better than never trying at all.
I rarely if at all eat meat or eggs. I drink milk though, so will look at buying organic milk. I have decided to make even more of an effort for my husband to buy free range meat/eggs. Organic groceries are more expensive of course, but if we can afford to spend money on other random things - we can afford good groceries, and cut back on the random things we don't really need. Its not just about me, its about my husband also - and living healthy long lives. My friend J brought up an excellent point about there not being the fructose corn syrup in everything when our parents were growing up. It angers me that its in everything here in the US. If we can be aware of what has HFCS in it, and cut some of it out of our diets that would be great.
We got talking about parabens. Parabens are in cosmetics, face creams etc to preserve their life. I got home and looked at some of my face creams. I use Yes to Carrots which is a vegan line, and I'm happy to say Paraben free! So, next step... I'm going to switch up my deodorant to something more earth friendly (body friendly).
Like I said, I'm not going to be all-about-organic. I like some processed foods. But all in all I like to cook fresh foods every day, and the efforts I make now will hopefully help over the years.
I'm eager to see the movie. I have been thinking a lot about our conversation. My grandparents (my Mum's parents) both died in their mid-60's of breast/bone cancer and a brain tumor. I miss them both, and I worry about the history of cancer in my family.
I'm not someone who will ever be fanatical about what I put in my body, or on my body. I simply do not have that sort of discipline. I wish I did. I admire people who can stick to a regime of organic foods only and exercising 3-5 times a week. I'm someone who puts in an effort every day to eat well and exercise regularly. But I also slip up. However, I figure all my efforts will add up over the years and are a lot better than never trying at all.
I rarely if at all eat meat or eggs. I drink milk though, so will look at buying organic milk. I have decided to make even more of an effort for my husband to buy free range meat/eggs. Organic groceries are more expensive of course, but if we can afford to spend money on other random things - we can afford good groceries, and cut back on the random things we don't really need. Its not just about me, its about my husband also - and living healthy long lives. My friend J brought up an excellent point about there not being the fructose corn syrup in everything when our parents were growing up. It angers me that its in everything here in the US. If we can be aware of what has HFCS in it, and cut some of it out of our diets that would be great.
We got talking about parabens. Parabens are in cosmetics, face creams etc to preserve their life. I got home and looked at some of my face creams. I use Yes to Carrots which is a vegan line, and I'm happy to say Paraben free! So, next step... I'm going to switch up my deodorant to something more earth friendly (body friendly).
Like I said, I'm not going to be all-about-organic. I like some processed foods. But all in all I like to cook fresh foods every day, and the efforts I make now will hopefully help over the years.
Friday, January 22, 2010
Home
I think since my sweet aussie friend Anna left I've been feeling homesick again. Argh! I though I had that little monster type feeling conquered once and for all. 3 years later and its still a little inward struggle. Still, I try to spin my thoughts around to more positive ones... eg. how awesome it is to get to live in and really experience another country for a solid amount of time! But as you well know, we all get our moments in life:) There are many things I feel grateful about, and I like to look at the bigger picture and think of all the freedoms (among other things) that I have in life. When I get those nasty little negative feelings (this sounds cheesy probably) but I like to give myself a slap in the face with a dose of **perspective**. I think about women in other countries (ie. the Middle East) where they don't have the same freedoms we do in western cultures. I think to myself how grateful I am to live in the US. I'm naturally such an independent woman, and can't imagine the daily inner struggle if I lived in a country which offered less freedom. I think about the job I have, which I love. I think about what I've learnt about myself here - and how going through something that feels a little tough can really build your character. Thoughts like that make me smile and feel happy for everything. When I get the homesick feeling I almost scoff at myself and think "come on Jones, is it really that bad?". I make myself get over it.
My 3rd year wedding anniversary is coming up in a couple of months, and husband and I were talking about what to do this year. We decided "no presents" this year, but that we'd each plan a day devoted to the other person. I'm quite excited about this, and think it will be lovely to give such a gift full of such thought. I've already planned some things mentally, but can't say just now, just in case my husband reads my humble little blog :)
Its been raining and stormy all week long. I love it. We went walking in the rain on the weekend. Some days at lunch I have been sitting and just watching the rain. Rain is such a novelty here. Its so refreshing having some.
My 3rd year wedding anniversary is coming up in a couple of months, and husband and I were talking about what to do this year. We decided "no presents" this year, but that we'd each plan a day devoted to the other person. I'm quite excited about this, and think it will be lovely to give such a gift full of such thought. I've already planned some things mentally, but can't say just now, just in case my husband reads my humble little blog :)
Its been raining and stormy all week long. I love it. We went walking in the rain on the weekend. Some days at lunch I have been sitting and just watching the rain. Rain is such a novelty here. Its so refreshing having some.
Monday, January 18, 2010
The time has come
I just had an eye exam. After more than a decade working on computers... I need... computer glasses. The optometrist said I have the eyes of a 40 year old. Oh crap.
He suggested I become a fire fighter, anything to get away from the computer, because my eyes will only get worse.
I chose some ray ban reading glasses that are interesting and I *think* suit me.
Suddenly I feel old. I'm turning the big 3-0 this year. (yes, I know that logically that is really quite young). But along with 3-0 comes glasses and I seem to have to work out more to stay the same darn weight.
End of pfffffft moment.
I'm going to go and fight some fires.
He suggested I become a fire fighter, anything to get away from the computer, because my eyes will only get worse.
I chose some ray ban reading glasses that are interesting and I *think* suit me.
Suddenly I feel old. I'm turning the big 3-0 this year. (yes, I know that logically that is really quite young). But along with 3-0 comes glasses and I seem to have to work out more to stay the same darn weight.
End of pfffffft moment.
I'm going to go and fight some fires.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
2010 and lack of resolutions
I’m at work and just treated myself (ok, that happens every day) to a chocolate chip cookie and a cup of coffee. Mmm.
The holidays were really nice. We went to Florida for a holiday… spent time with really good friends of ours. We stayed up most nights drinking beer and talking till gone 1-2pm. They just did their normal daily things, and included us. I ate soul food for the first time (it was fantastic!) up in West Palm Beach in Florida.
Then my husband and I spent a couple of days in South Beach Miami. That was ok. We stayed in the Art Deco district which was totally crazy. It’s the place for party-goers, if you love the nightlife. But we’re not. It wasn’t our scene, but at least we can say we saw South Beach. One of the days we were there we did a drive through the Keys. The water was beautiful. The Keys are relatively untouched and reminded me somewhat of Hawaii and Western Australian beaches. The other day we did a drive up through Alligator Alley in hope to see alligators! We didn’t, but it was a peaceful drive.
Now I’m back at work and happy to be in routine again. We have a super busy 6 months ahead of us. Between visits to New York and LA, my Mum and friends visiting. Weddings to attend. We’re going to Yosemite. All the in between time will be wonderfully “normal” also. I thrive on routine.
Taking one day off a week was the best things I ever did. I’m enjoying my work more, and have more time to read books, play music and even be able to contemplate craft projects. I just finished reading “The Book Thief” which was brilliant and devastating. I would have liked to seen the ending expanded somewhat. But all in all it was a 9.5 out of 10 for me! (big call I know). I just started reading “hickory dickory dock” by Agatha Christie. I like her stories, but the book is a little juvenile for my taste. Its something I could have read at 12 years old. Still I’m going to stick it out. The next book I want to read is one Daniel is currently reading “The Maltese Falcon”.
I started teaching myself guitar recently. I have some of the main chords down, but need to get the guitar tuned… I have to learn how to do that. A lot of it is having the time, with everything else to do…
I’m excited about 2010. I feel like I’m in a good place and am glad to say my homesickness has finally worn off. I love America, and I love living here. Its such a diverse country. You can travel a few hours and almost be in a totally different culture, yet are still in the same country. This last week 2 of my closest friends in California, Anna and Wendy, left our area… with their husbands and moved to New York and to the desert. I was very sad to see them go, and have a heavy heart now that my friend Anna is gone for a short while. We get each other. We’re both Aussies, and have developed a wonderful friendship in the last year and a half. We’ve gone though some difficult times together here, and we’ve laughed a lot. I think laughing our way through it, and paying each other out constantly kept us both sane. Our friendship is one of the things that makes me glad I came to the States. I have this feeling we’ll be close friends for a very long time. Building a strong friendship with someone doesn’t happen easily. Often it takes going through something. As lovely as Southern California is, for us, understanding and feeling comfortable in this culture took time. I feel like Anna helped me with that. She helped me get over the difficult period of homesickness. The Wednesday in the year. I’ll miss our jokes that’s for sure. But for the most part, my happiness for Anna overrides the feelings I have. Getting to experience a new city, then heading home. What a fantastic way to end this American experience!
I don’t really believe in New Years Resolutions, because I rarely stick to them. They are always to “lose weight”, “learn a language”, “do better with this and that”. There are things I’m constantly trying to work on personally. I’m on a tight budget this year, which is somewhat daunting yet exciting. I’m looking forward to finding cheap ways of doing everything! I literally don’t have money even for a $20 dress or a $5 vintage purse. If I find something… I have to absolutely love it to pieces. And it has to be ridiculously inexpensive. My “fun” budget for the year for clothing is… wait for it… $100. Crazy you say? Well. I have enough clothes to last me the next 2 decades. I feel overwhelmed when I look into my closet. So I’m looking forward to the challenge. I’m also not letting myself buy “products” eg makeup etc until I’ve totally run out of something. I gave my husband all my cards to hold onto, so if I’m feeling like some “retail therapy” or am in love with something… there’s no way I can get it.
That’s all folks. From the terrible blogger… :)
The holidays were really nice. We went to Florida for a holiday… spent time with really good friends of ours. We stayed up most nights drinking beer and talking till gone 1-2pm. They just did their normal daily things, and included us. I ate soul food for the first time (it was fantastic!) up in West Palm Beach in Florida.
Then my husband and I spent a couple of days in South Beach Miami. That was ok. We stayed in the Art Deco district which was totally crazy. It’s the place for party-goers, if you love the nightlife. But we’re not. It wasn’t our scene, but at least we can say we saw South Beach. One of the days we were there we did a drive through the Keys. The water was beautiful. The Keys are relatively untouched and reminded me somewhat of Hawaii and Western Australian beaches. The other day we did a drive up through Alligator Alley in hope to see alligators! We didn’t, but it was a peaceful drive.
Now I’m back at work and happy to be in routine again. We have a super busy 6 months ahead of us. Between visits to New York and LA, my Mum and friends visiting. Weddings to attend. We’re going to Yosemite. All the in between time will be wonderfully “normal” also. I thrive on routine.
Taking one day off a week was the best things I ever did. I’m enjoying my work more, and have more time to read books, play music and even be able to contemplate craft projects. I just finished reading “The Book Thief” which was brilliant and devastating. I would have liked to seen the ending expanded somewhat. But all in all it was a 9.5 out of 10 for me! (big call I know). I just started reading “hickory dickory dock” by Agatha Christie. I like her stories, but the book is a little juvenile for my taste. Its something I could have read at 12 years old. Still I’m going to stick it out. The next book I want to read is one Daniel is currently reading “The Maltese Falcon”.
I started teaching myself guitar recently. I have some of the main chords down, but need to get the guitar tuned… I have to learn how to do that. A lot of it is having the time, with everything else to do…
I’m excited about 2010. I feel like I’m in a good place and am glad to say my homesickness has finally worn off. I love America, and I love living here. Its such a diverse country. You can travel a few hours and almost be in a totally different culture, yet are still in the same country. This last week 2 of my closest friends in California, Anna and Wendy, left our area… with their husbands and moved to New York and to the desert. I was very sad to see them go, and have a heavy heart now that my friend Anna is gone for a short while. We get each other. We’re both Aussies, and have developed a wonderful friendship in the last year and a half. We’ve gone though some difficult times together here, and we’ve laughed a lot. I think laughing our way through it, and paying each other out constantly kept us both sane. Our friendship is one of the things that makes me glad I came to the States. I have this feeling we’ll be close friends for a very long time. Building a strong friendship with someone doesn’t happen easily. Often it takes going through something. As lovely as Southern California is, for us, understanding and feeling comfortable in this culture took time. I feel like Anna helped me with that. She helped me get over the difficult period of homesickness. The Wednesday in the year. I’ll miss our jokes that’s for sure. But for the most part, my happiness for Anna overrides the feelings I have. Getting to experience a new city, then heading home. What a fantastic way to end this American experience!
I don’t really believe in New Years Resolutions, because I rarely stick to them. They are always to “lose weight”, “learn a language”, “do better with this and that”. There are things I’m constantly trying to work on personally. I’m on a tight budget this year, which is somewhat daunting yet exciting. I’m looking forward to finding cheap ways of doing everything! I literally don’t have money even for a $20 dress or a $5 vintage purse. If I find something… I have to absolutely love it to pieces. And it has to be ridiculously inexpensive. My “fun” budget for the year for clothing is… wait for it… $100. Crazy you say? Well. I have enough clothes to last me the next 2 decades. I feel overwhelmed when I look into my closet. So I’m looking forward to the challenge. I’m also not letting myself buy “products” eg makeup etc until I’ve totally run out of something. I gave my husband all my cards to hold onto, so if I’m feeling like some “retail therapy” or am in love with something… there’s no way I can get it.
That’s all folks. From the terrible blogger… :)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)