my goodies

Dear Guy-that-I’ve-hung-out-with-twice,

You make me laugh. That’s a must.

You wine and dine me. That’s a plus.

Flirtations. Conversations.

Unfortunately, you lack patience.

Too soon. Too fast. You made a pass.

You make me cringe. and That’s the end.

All the best.

Cape Town, do you miss me as much as I miss you?

OMG!

someone transport me to Moyo, with the face painting, South Africa

n crooner, and winding staircase leading to the wine cellar. QUICK! i wanna be surrounded by it all.

keri hilson's tweets gettin' me all nostalgic!

and as much as I fear heights, I'd go back on that lift to the top of Table Mountain in a heartbeat. no questions asked. amazing view of the World Cup 2010 stadium. close to the heavens. feeling alive up there.

Recession-Proof Fun - Courtesy of DC Public Libraries

I must admit. I frequent the public library (no wonder I’ve been called a “geek” once before…okay, more than just one time.) more and more these days, and the happy hours at chic after-work spots less and less. Frankly, it feels great (aka recession-proof)! FREE movie nights in the comfort of my warm bed (which could potentially include a botella of white wine) VS. a $20 tab (2 rail drinks, the smallest appetizer, and tip to even it all out) and lackluster conversations with guys who hate their job and complain about it for half of the time you pretend to engage with them. Of course, this is all in line with my social diet (I can devote an entire blog entry to that…sooner than later), so I’m practically forcing myself to choose the former. However, it’s a win-win. Why would I ever pay iTunes $3.99 to rent Cameron Diaz & Ashton Kutcher’s “What Happens in Vegas” for a limited 24-hr period when I can simply borrow it from a DC public library for $FREE.99 until I feel like watching it (unlimited time period, per the courtesy of renewing up to as many times as they will allow – it varies from librarian to librarian AND branch to branch). I could pour approximately 3-4 full glasses of wine out of a bottle of Riesling for under 10 bucks – that’s double the amount of sweet deliciousness for what I’d receive even on happy hour menus.

I mean, the proof is in the pudding economics. As Cornel West pointed out, “Race Matters.” I’ll add to that, “So does Money.”

I digress. My point of bringing up the DC public library system was because I was perusing their brand spankin’ new website this morning! Woohoo! And what a difference from the last time I visited the site! Essential links are easily accessible. Layout appears organized and user-friendly. There’s a wish-list option to save requests for library resources for a rainy day (like today!). I’m just highly impressed. I realize that my purpose on the site is solely to find things for pleasure (And frankly, when I walk in the library, I head straight for the DVD section), but its utility extends to higher academic purposes, should the District residents take advantage of it. Now that I’m not a student anymore (yay!), my reasons for visiting DC public libraries have changed drastically. Kick “research” to the curb. Throw out the reference books, for all I care. :)

::: contemplating which movie I’ll watch tonight:::

I’ve got the genre: Comedy.

Semi-Pro OR Tropic Thunder?

i like rap music?

wow.  i think i'm becoming a fan of j.cole. he's a NC-born rapper. i've deduced from his commentary that he's my age, given he enrolled at St. John's (and moved from the south to NYC) in 2003. anywho. i like the way jermaine thinks (he's got strategy!): intimate concerts. build the fan base. create a devoted following.

remember John Legend back in 2002, singing at Boston College for $15 or so!?! i was a fan. i certainly was a part of the "Ordinary People" following. my man, J. Cole is trying to be on that level. 

Check out part 1 of this documentary on him! Looking forward to the rest of it...

ps. - i don't even like rap like that! but let's just say, my growing affinity for J.Cole and his lyrical contributions is somewhat comparable to that of Ryan Leslie last summer! ::I'm addicted to you::::

pps. - just saw that he has his own website (duh! why wouldn't he?!) shh. don't tell. I'm joining the mailing list. the next post about J Cole might just be about my attendance to one of his intimate concerts here in DC.

Usher VIP

yes it's true, i want to smell it: the Usher VIP fragrance. The R&B crooner says it's a combo of masculinity and "lady-swooning" pleasure.

:::sigh::: If it's anything like Burberry Touch....

first females

As a feminist (oOoOo the F-word), as an advocate of pay equity (that's economics, right?), and as a proud woman, I was delighted to hear that the work of Elinor Ostrom was lauded with a most honorable prize: the Nobel Prize in economics. In fact, the first female to receive this acclaimed award.
:::jumping for joy::::

I read this article this morning and it added some depth to the good news. I questioned: Will I see more "firsts" in my time? Of course! At a tender age of 24, I'll DEFINITELY witness more pioneers step up to the plate and claim that victorious title: "First Female [occupation/title]". It doesn't stop with Hilary Clinton's recent proximity to political prowess as potentially the FIRST female president of the U.S.

Shameless plug: Big ups to Ellen Johnson Sirleaf [who I met this Spring - woohoo!] for becoming the first female elected Head of State in all of [that beautiful continent] Africa). Plus, I'd like to give props to the not only the firsts, but the "seconds" and "thirds" as well. That includes you, Mrs. Clinton, as our third female Secretary of State.

Editorial writer Ruth Marcus, hits the nail on the head, when she mentions her age. She has experienced some of the first "firsts". A lifetime of firsts, plus overcoming the adversity of gender discrimination and sexism must be extraordinary, but tiring. You feel as if you have accomplished so much and that the end is nearing. "Are we there yet?" seems to be her message. News Flash: "We've still got more to go." Not sure how far we are, but let's continue pushing forward. I don't feel as if I've taken for granted what's been accomplished (ie. female CEOs, a decreased gender pay gap since the induction of females in the workforce, maternity leave laws, fewer burning bras [how wasteful! not my Vickies push-up!], etc). And although I don't fully understand the magnitude of the strides that females worldwide have taken for me to be in the social position I am today, I am grateful and willing to be a part of the "moving forward" force. I'm 24. Okay - close to 24 and a half. Monumental changes have occurred before my time, but I envision more greatness in the years to come for global female empowerment and advancement.

In summary, ladies, I implore you to place yourself within the title: "[Full Name, First [occupation/title]". It is not a matter of whether or not this will occur; instead, it is a matter of when this will occur.

Eve's Temptation

i wrote this piece in '05 at the crack of dawn. it was one of those sleepless nights and i happened to be innocently reflecting on a good time getting to know someone. so i wrote it down...

-------------------------------------------------------

That Time We Drank Eve's Temptation

Let's take a seat

get comfortable

set my peacoat on the right

and you (my new male friend) on my left side

Let's ease into the comfort zone

these blush red suede couches

privately settled under dim lights

patiently awaiting to sooth any concern, worry or plight

And amongst the millions of throw pillows

Let us lay

Let us chat

Let us indulge in each other's memories

unfold inspirational accounts

exchange laugh out loud stories

Share with me

aspirations to lead, to one day succeed,

horror stories of road trips gone bad,

times you were happy, times you were sad,

periods of mourning, loneliness, and despair

I want you to know all that you'll offer me

fresh in my mind

almost as if I was just there...

don't leave me hangin' now...

although...

I understand the complexity of telling your secrets

you question:

1) am I worthy? 2) do you trust me?

believe in this

learn to let go

to relax, to just let it flow

and Let's uncover ourselves

and as we lay

as we chat

as we indulge

and as we share

we'll be sitting and listening

deep in concentration

every now and then, 

sippin' on Eve's Temptation.

Sex in the City 2!

randomly... excited about the (recently started) shooting of Sex in the City 2 movie in anticipation of really dressing up and going all out with pink Martinis this time to go watch it in the theaters (whenever it finally comes out!)....

good day mate! (as my Australian coworker often says)

Hooked to the Tube (Thursday nights)!

Oh, September 17th, how I long for thee...

... The Office Season 6 premieres!

CAN'T WAIT! This could possibly be the first time I've ever been excited about the season premiere of a TV show. Wait.... it IS the first time! (and the excitement ensues). 

P.S. 30 Rock, I love you too!

"The Office" Daily Quotes

Usually, I'm catching up on my "The Office" day calendar quotes. This morning, I decided to keep up and read today's quote. 

Monday, August 24, 2009:

"Like I said, it's not about the horniness, it's the loneliness. And how can I be lonely with my boys? I think a famous person once said, "Boys on the side," but I don't, I disagree. I say, "Let's hear it for the boys." - Michael.

The eeriest thing happened though! As I'm reading today's quote, the song "Let's hear it from the boys" starts playing on my iTunes. Mind you, I am listening to my music on shuffle - music from my desktop - music that I haven't touched since last year until last night. I don't even know who sings this song! Either way, it made the quote funnier.

I think I've only recognized three or four quotes thus far - 8 months of reading these daily quotes... hm... do I need to have a "The Office" Watching Party?

forget parties. it's Monday. back to the grind. best for the week! 

P.S. I couldn't help looking in advance. HILARIOUS!

Tuesday, August 25, 2009

"Okay, well this will not do. Toby is going away forever and ah, we need to do something very, very special. In some cultures, when somebody leaves, like New Orleans culture, they have a parade and they have a band and people party in the streets." - Michael

short and sweet

i want a bowl of cereal.

3am Mid-August Version

Spur of My Moments: 3am Mid-August version!

(1) what? huh? am I really willing to give up salsa tonight (yes, it's already Wednesday!) in order to go to bed early so I can wake up for a crack-of-dawn run on a scenic trail? ... maybe. a big MAYBE. something to contemplate for the day.

(2) going out on a Monday is only a good idea when you have the option of going into work at 11am on Tuesday morning!

(3) i think I might draft all these emails I'm writing and send them out in 3-4 hours so people won't have to wonder...

(4) Although I thoroughly enjoyed being a part of the FIRST class of my school's DC program, I am quite excited for what this year will have to bring, ie. all the improvements, additions and constructive changes to the curriculum, the physical space of the program (yay for expansion!), instructors and structure (woohoo -- less units in the spring aka more time to look for a J-O-B)! It almost makes me want to go BACK.... of course, minus the unnecessary stress of Program Evaluation exams and System Synthesis project deadlines. Okay, so maybe I just want to stay closely involved :) 

(5) I'd like to declare my word-of-the-day: Networking!

Really though, this might have to be the word-of-the-"until I get a job".

Question?

Should I become a Zumba Instructor (on the side)?

my coworkers say I'd be perfect for it, with all this energy that I have. In my opinion, I could do it! No doubt about it! But, sometimes (truthfully) I find myself in a lull - would I be up for it on those days? Would I have to just suck it up and bring it on? :)

...things I'm pondering at 5:30am...

Mr. Barista

The first day I walked in there, I somehow (morning magic?) deserved a free drink. no prob. i'll take his offer: my regular, Solo Grande SF Vanilla Latte. SCORE! He probably thought that would be the first and last time he'd see me in there. Thanks for the treat, Mr. Barista. But long and behold, I'll frequent that Starbucks for the next couple of weeks. 

Today he asks, "So what did you say your name was again?"

And I responded, "I didn't". 

Guess he'll find out tomorrow morning. I plan on telling him my name in exchange for another free drink ;)

P.S.- Salsa was fun last night. YayYyY for Anna's bday! And I learned some Salsa Rueda moves tonight: "Adios", "Dile Que No", "Dame", and others. I'm thoroughly enjoying my journey as a Salsera.

BREAKING NEWS!

i can put my hair in a ponytail!!! :) 

it's not much, but it's progress. yay!

Making of the Salsera

i had to look it up : obsession. 'cause unlike the wanna-be-mistress character in Idris Elba's newest blockbuster, Obsession, I am not psychotic about my new and evolving interest-turned-passion for salsa. right?

Obsession (n): the domination of one's thoughts or feelings by a persistent image, idea or desire, etc. (Definition provided to you by: www.dictionary.com)

Hm... after reviewing that definition, I just may be obsessed - the water downed version of obsession though.  :)

• I find myself wanting to listen to salsa more often now. The beat comes on. My head is bopping. And all of a sudden, I'm executing footwork and swaying my hips from side to side. At 6:45 am. as I waited on the platform for the metro. when I thought no one was looking (that is, until my roommate, who happens to be coming down the escalator, bursted out in laughter. caught!). 
• I go dancing A LOT! Kind of like back in my senior year at Tufts. Every Thursday, I took the Redline 6 stops over, hopped out of the T at Park Street and walked down the cobblestone Winter Street (in heels! *cuidate*) to the nicely-tucked-away club, Mojitos. Here in the District, I began practicing a similar routine - I would go dancing weekly. I've become a regular. Now, however, I go 2x a week and possibly, might increase that amount to 3x! ante up.  
  

But - what's that Benjamin Franklin quote? He said the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results. Fortunately, for me, I've maintained my sanity. Although every week, I go salsa dancing at the same spot(s), dance with just about the same people and stand in the same spot as I wait for a guy to lead me on to the dance floor, I have definitely improved (aka I'm not doing the same thing over and over once I get moving!! And the smallest of enhancements in my technique, or even style, is invigorating! Something as trivial as adding a little bit more tension to my grasp and arm movements can make the grand difference in my salsa dancing between me 8 weeks ago and me on the dance floor today. 

SALSA: possibly an obsession. definitely not a vice (cause there's so many benefits for me personally!). Definitively, my newest passion, form of exercise, and pastime. 

**This entry is in dedication to my upcoming week of SALSA! That's right - Mon. Tues. Wednesday. Thursday and Friday. ;) I promise it's not an obsession, but be prepared to read more about it in future entries. :p **

diabetics on the run

i wonder: has a Type 1 diabetic ever successfully ran and finished a marathon? if so, i imagine they would've been equipped with a pouch filled with sugary delights. i envision the marathon volunteers handing them Gatorades. and that gets me wondering -  did they check their BS (blood sugar) throughout this long adventure? on the 4th mile? in between miles 15 & 16? Cause I know I can walk and check my blood sugar at the same time, but would I be able to run and operate my glucometer simultaneously? eh.

well, diabetic marathoners do exist, FYI. that's inspirational, huh? 

what? marathon? me? most likely not. but, 10 K, here I come. after a few trial and errors with the blood sugar control, of course. 

Caught My Eye

Here are some eye-catching t-shirts that I’ve recently come across:

Every Damn Day – Just do it! (Nike) 
 I found this one on a t-shirt of a passerby. So, of course, as he was passing, I had to comment (practically blurted out): “I like your shirt!”  

 

I came. I saw. I froze. (Inauguration 2009)
And how exact did this t-shirt describe the scenario of every American standing on the National Mall on January 20, 2009? If I were to accurately describe my experience using this format, it would say: I came. I saw. I froze for an hour and then retreated back to my house to watch President Obama deliver his Inauguration Speech on TV and in the comfort of the warmth. I had the best of both worlds J

VI, here I come!

early morning rise, again...

but this time, not to go to work, or to go to class, or to study...

but, instead, to head to the VI! :)

I finalized all written finals last night, and it's time to take a load off and party in St. Thomas' Carnival (under the expertise and guidance of a VI native, of course!)

ooOo Cruzcan rum - Mango style. looking forward to it!

Weekend Breakdown

I had a BLAST in Pittsburgh this weekend, even the 6-hour ride there! Just for the record, it came from HIS side :p
Heinz Grom (graduate prom)!
Pamela’s with The Four (yay for Harry making it out!)!
Prantl’s Small Egg Bread (sliced, please!)
Waterfront movie theatres (I’m going to need you to stay awake next time, T!)
Ben & Jerrys (Can I get anything with mango in it, please?)
Fun in the sun! (or not, since no one else wanted to go tan do cartwheels at Schenley Plaza)
I couldn’t have asked for a better break before this last week of H-E-double hockey sticks classes.

Back to the grind... 1 systems final paper, an international development policy memo, and 1 final presentation left to go!

oh, right, it doesn't stop there - cover letters galore next week ;)

Destination: Under the Sun

in less than 2 weeks...

Writing, Watching & Listening to Tunes!

I was people watching today – of course, while I should have been drafting this report for my group thesis project, but I’m a multi-tasker, so essentially, it helped to look around after every 10 minutes or so of writing – and boy, was it interesting to observe the varied reasons for which people will sit in a B&N Starbucks seating area.

Three international teenage girls (I believe I overheard a French conversation – I could barely make out the words with my New Playlist (see below) blasting through my earphones) were obviously visiting DC. They were all wearing bright colored sweatshirts with “Washington D.C.” written across their chests and sleeves. With similar hairstyles (straight long dyed-black hair with fashionably longer bangs swooped to the right. Okay, one of them actually had bleach blond long hair with a fashionably long bang swooped to the left. She was the original one out of the group), each one walked up to the table next to mine with a CVS bag in hand. As soon as they sat down, they started ripping open makeup packages of blush, bronzer, lip gloss, you name it. I wondered why, since they were already done up for the day. Black, defining mascara and rosy cheeks. And plenty of foundation plastered on their faces already. But, then!... to tip it all off, they started painting each other’s nails! Oh, how I love the smell of roasted coffee beans and Sally Hansen’s Quick Dry. (PAUSE) (PAUSE). NOT. 

Sidenote: I do however love OPI's nail color: Lincoln Park After Dark

Just wanted to fill you in, considering a sister's birthday is coming up :) haha, in two more months...

I guess these three girls were the most intriguing today. Of course, there were tons of other student-like people with packets of paper and concentrated minds. Plastic cups of water and coffee mugs surrounding their laptops. [Sometimes busy and semi-loud coffee shops (including those within bookstores) can foster studious environments.] There were the B&N frequenters that simply want to preview a purchase before dropping 20 bucks or so on a potential fictional flop. And finally, random people looking for a safe haven from the rainy day with an added bonus of a cup of Stbx hot chocolate!

I wonder what those who were people-watching were thinking about me? hmmm...

An entertaining mix, yet appropriate for any of my study sessions :p
• Beyonce ft 'Ye: Ego
• The Dream ft ‘Ye: Walking on the Moon
• The Foreign Exchange: Take Off the Blues (o-so-soothing)
• LeToya Luckett: She Ain’t Got Shit On Me (potential club banger)
• Jamie Foxx: Digital Girl (load it on my macbook air/ it's a new form of macking, don't be old fashioned, update your passion)
• Keri Hilson ft. T-Pain & Lil Wayne: Turnin Me on Remix (loves it!)
• Rihanna: Breakin’ Dishes
• Day 26 Ft: Young Joc & Diddy: Ima Put it On Her
• Mario & Gucci Mane: Father & Daughter
• Fabulous ft. The Dream: Throw It in the the Bag
• Day 26 ft. T-Pain: Shawty Wassup
• Ryan Leslie: I-R-I-N-A Remix (makes me smile!)
• Cassie ft. Diddy: Must Be Love (simple and catchy, like all cassie hits)
• Danity Kane: Sucka for Love
• Beyonce: Halo
• Jamie Foxx ft: T-Pain: Blame It
• The Dream: Rockin That Shit
• LeToya Luckett: Not Anymore
• Ryan Leslie: Gibberish
• Rihanna: Good Girl Gone Bad (so true!)
• Adele: Right as Rain (had to put this one in there, although it doesn’t really fit!)

Back to writing more blog entries my report!

i love you, Skype

I'm still in love with you, Skype. You excite me. And I especially like it when you're on top --- of your technology game. I just might need you to make a few changes. Think about it. We could spice this relationship up! That's right - I'm talking about a threesome!

lol, seriously Skype. I want to be able to talk and see the 'rents in NC while we ALL watch my niece in Phoenix get her giggle on! that's the next step, babe. make it happen.

Heels on High

Ey! Girl in the Purple Shoes! Purple Shoes.

(Imagine a man on the street calling you by the color of your outfit/shirt/shoes/anything distinctly identifiable from anyone else on that side of the sidewalk) 

They don’t call you DAANGER for nothing. You’re fierce! 

Thank you for taking it easy on me last night ;)

Are we not a match made in Heaven, Kitten Heels?

Dear Kitten Heels,

Why do you perish every 6th night on the town? I give you so much more preference when I make my shoe selection, and yet, you show me no love.

You slowly, but surely, grind your way down to nothing, but a steel rod. A steel rod that scratches my grandmother’s wooden living room floor (sorry Abuelita), marking my path from the couch to the kitchen, and creating a design of my foot steps as I sashay to slow salsa [or was that Bachata?]. A steel rod that uproots the dirt and destructs patches of grass. A steel rod that scrapes and scuffs, and nicks and cuts.

You must have a crush on the cobbler.

Sincerely,
There’s a Thin Line Between Love & Hate

oo! i found something to look forward to :)

ooOOoo 32 days til May 1st! 

May 1st: May Day (International Worker's Day)! Aw, I have good memories of this day! Back in Boston. It must've been Spring 05. I choreographed an Afro-Latino dance for the 1st Annual ALAS Culture Show -- and it was such a hit [thanks to my wonderful dancers, electrifying (spring!) costumes, and awesomely dedicated drummers! (esp Nico since we worked together to mesh the dance with the beats!)] we were asked to perform in a May Day event in downtown Boston. Gosh, I wish I could remember which T stop we were near....Prudential? Copley Square? I really couldn't tell you....close to four years ago! phew!

Anywho, I think I'll have even BETTER memories of this day becauseeee here's the REAL declaration: May 1st aka LAST DAY OF CLASSES! wooOoOhoooO! aka Vacay in the VI! bigger woOOohooo!

Ruminating RaNdomNessesS

wow. so everything I've been looking forward to in March has already passed. hmm... I have to do something about that! 

I'm two days late with this announcement, but better late than never: Happy Spring!

In other news, Julia Roberts & Clive Owen, I love you two as entertainers, but I really disliked your new movie, Duplicity. It was unexciting and too long. In fact, it put me to sleep :-/ To redeem my perception of your acting skills/ability to use discretion when selecting worthy movie scripts, I might have my own personal movie night this evening: Inside Man & Runaway Bride (or Pretty Woman... or Step Mom). Request: Chuck, can you write a blog entry about how these two (or this movie) need to Lay It Down? 

Finally, I was contemplating the extent to which one can get creative and think outside the box in Scattegories, a game I thoroughly enjoy playing with an innovative mindset :) 

Let's take, for example, the category: Fictional Characters. The letter is E. Would you let the response, "Evan" slide? Although we don't know a particular "Evan", he could very well be a character that some great author created in a short story (Refer to Wikipedia: Fiction). I'm sure someone has written about Evan :)

ugh. I think I hear my homework calling my name.

P.S. I seriously miss Capetown, specifically my favorite hookah spot in the whole wide world: Cubana! Located near the V&A Waterfront. After-party spot open til 4:30am (or at least that's when they started kicking people out!). Good Music. Good people. PLUS! Where else can you get 6 shots with Apple flavored Hookah for 5 bucks (aka 50 RAND)?

last night in capetown

oh no! where did my last post go? it didn't go through! bummer.
i think i mentioned that I ate ostrich for the first time. yummy.
another bummer: tonight's my last night in capetown :-/ I HEART CAPETOWN! I HEART HOOKAHING in CAPETOWN even more! haha
but, to end off on a positive note before i meet the entire crew for our last-night-out-in-capetown outing -- I'm headed to Robben Island tomorrow! 9am sharp - I'm on that ferry!

Greetings from Bakabung Bush Lodge!

Greetings from Pilanesberg National Park/Game Reserve - Bukabung Bush Lodge!

so to start from the beginning... i love 16 hr flights! wait. there was more b/c first I flew from DC to ATL - 1. Then, from ATL to Dakar, Senegal - 8 hrs. The flight attendant on this leg was soOoOo great to Ambrose & I! She said, "Here, have a drink for me too", as she passed us more miniature Chardonnay bottles. That was after our Delta mixed drinks. :) All the while, we watched new releases on our personal tvs! Yay for international flights. I saw Changeling & Vicki Christina Barcelona (or was it Christina Vicki Barcelona? whatever) -- both gReAT movies! Then, after waiting in the plane during an hour security check at Dakar, we finally headed for Johannesburg on another 8 hour flight. This one passed by quickly, as I knocked out for the most part, only waking up to eat not-so-good plane breakfast. Thank Goodness for FiberOne bars ;)

Random Facts:
- 7 hour time difference from EST
- Zebras manes stick up only when they're healthy
- A journey is a herd of female giraffes
- The black rhino is the second most endangered species in Africa (and I saw one today!). Voltaile creatures!
- Bukabung = people of the Hippo!

ok...so, it's obvious that I just returned from the Safari! pics to comeeeeeee. zebras. a lion from afar. an elepahnt (JUMBO!). ooOoO so many sightings this morning!

What's next? Safari BBQ Dinner tonight. Antelope, anyone? Then we're hitting up Sun City tonight -- mini Vegas. Who's going to be brushing up on their Blackjack and Texas Hold Em skills this afternoon? probably not me. I think I'll just gamble with my money in the markets aka negotiate my way into purchasing authentic South African art for cheap.

Finally, we're leaving for Jo'burg tomorrow morning!

by the way, my first minute on this vacay was awesome. thanks layers. :)

Change Clothes & Go!

I always find it interesting when traveling from DC’s mild winter (no so much lately, though) to [destination’s] heat. It’s somewhat of an art to determine the perfect "going" outfit. My secret is layering. As soon as I get dropped off at the airport, I take off one heavy layer: winter jacket. Fold it up, and stuff it in my checked bag or carry-on, whichever you prefer.  Whatever you choose, just get it out of the way, 'cause jackets can unnecessarily complicate and lengthen the entire security process. 

What’s left? A short sleeved t-shirt pieced with a long cardigan or sweatshirt. That does the trick for the flight. Airplanes can be cold. And it’s a drab when flight attendants relay to you, “I’m sorry miss, there’s no more blankets.” So, stay warm with that long-sleeved layer [and maybe a Kashmina scarf]. Oh, and a pair of cute, but comfy jeans and flats. Although if you're prone to swollen ankles, you might want to try sneaks. :-/

Finally (!), the plane lands. As you wait for those slow people in front of you to retrieve their carry-ons from the overhead compartments, eliminate that long-sleeved layer. And boom – you’re ready for the heat! Or at the least, you’re not overwhelmed with fabrics and threads to the point of perspiration.
Enjoy your first minute of vacay!

This is my plan for tomorrow morning!

:::still singing::: I'M SO EXCITED. AND I JUST CAN'T HIDE IT :::still singing:::

T-2 days!

omG. don't say it's so?! T-2 days til SA!

::singing:: IM SO EXCITED! AND I JUST CAN'T HIDE IT ::singing::

Happy March!

wait. before i forget. Happy March! 

Things I'm looking forward to en el mes de Marzo:

• Happy Birthday Stephanie on the 4th!
  
• St. Patrick's Day - I've been dying to wear those green leggings I bought on sale at H&M for 99 cents (!!!!) three days after St. Patrick's day last year. haha. 
  
• Spring Break in South Africa - only days away!
  
• Spring! you know what that means... I'll leave that up to your personal interpretations.
  
• Birthday shout out to Kimmy on the 20th!
  
• PMF results - I need to know now. don't keep me in suspense any longer people. i need to figure out my life.
  

I bet there's more. There's definitely more. So, more to come...

What are you looking forward to in March?

Table for ONE, please?

Approximately 3.5 years ago, in the District of Columbia, I developed a greater self-confidence to go places by myself. 100 days dates of solitude! The Movies. Wining and dining solo. Museums. And because I lived in Tenleytown, it was no biggie to be seen at Neisha's Thai Cuisine by yourself or grabbing a table-for-one at Guapos after a long day at the internship. Or even something more fancy, like, Cheesecake Factory in Friendship Heights. I could do that. I've continued to "take myself out" in cities up and down the East Coast: Boston, Pittsburgh, and New York City. Mostly, movie dates. Just the other week, in fact, I treated myself to a matinee showing of "Bride Wars". I chuckled and laughed out loud with myself, all the while thoroughly enjoying this mid-afternoon entertainment aka homework break. 

Fast forward to a couple of days ago. I briefly thought of taking these solo ventures up a notch. What if I got all dolled up for a night on the town and made reservations for me, myself and I at a fancy, romantic restaurant, like Georgia Browns? Could I do it? Oooo, how I'm craving a delectable dish of fried foods and gourmet Southern cuisine. But, could I do it?
Hmmm... how bout I settle on a to-go order...

Last night, however, I was forced to complete a solo mission: Grab a drink at a packed club by yourself. Can I have a "Sex on the Beach" please? Quick!

I miss...

I miss...

I miss the cuddling, the forehead kisses, the internal warmth, the sleepless nights, the hours of intellectual exchange, the playful outings, the blissful moments of reminiscing, … I miss sharing my life with that special someone. I miss being able to call whenever I want. 6:33am. 3:12pm. 11:11am. 1:29am. Now. 3 days ago. In 5 weeks. Rendezvous at my place. You me had. Had me you. You had me all tongue tied. (Kudos to Jill Scott)

I miss you, but I really miss me.

I miss…

I miss reading for pleasure. Laughing out loud at the author’s sarcastic remarks. Giggling at the flirtatious comment that [insert woman’s name] said to her beau of the month. Indulging in the lives of movies stars, singers, and other celebrities. Given all these reality TV shows, there’s so many to keep up with nowadays. Did those two from The Hills finally get married? Is Katie & Tom Cruise really ready to give Suri a baby sister or brother? What’s the count on the Brangelina clan? And when will we hear from Rhianna? 

Reading for pleasure = knowing that you will not be tested at any point afterwards. Unless you play Trivia Games.

I miss ordering a “Solo Grande Sugar-Free Vanilla Latte” with hesitation. “Can I have a Vanilla La

tte – but with Sugar-Free syrup. And can I have it in a medium cup? But, since I don’t like the taste of coffee, can I have a small shot of espresso.” Those were the days before my deep loyalty to the Starbucks. It began in grad school, frequenting the chain on the corner of Craig & Fifth. And I’ve continued the morning (mid-morning or afternoon) addiction at other locations in the District, usually on my way to work. It used to feel like innocence and ignorance, all swirled in one cup of coffee. And now, I’m a part of the Coffee for Champions cult. Even more, Eschena knows my order by heart. All I have to do is show my face and pay. And yes, I know my barista’s name.

I miss sneaking around. Not the cheating kind, but the “I know I shouldn’t be doing this right now and right here” kind or the “I’m breaking the rules” kind. Even though I wasn’t allowed to watch TV on the weekdays, I somehow stayed abreast all the 90210 episodes. duh, parents, cause when you're allowed to go to friends’ houses during the week, specifically those that had TVs and Cablevision connections, TV watching occurs.) I snuck in a couple of “friends” into the house after school every now and then. My friends and I would watch movies all day, complementary of Essex Green. And I skipped classes in high school to take an extra hour of lunch. I guess that’s why I skip classes in grad school too – for an extra hour of lunch the rush.

I miss volleyball. Remember that one play? That one amazing play in the East Coast Championships – the setter hustled across the diagonal span of the court. I drew back from the net and prepped in the outside position. Knees bent, on call for the attack. She bumped it high, the ball reaching towards the gymnasium ceiling. Perfectly placed. I aimed. I swung a full downward stroke full of explosive power. 1.2.3.KILL! I especially miss the ups and downs of the game. Digs [the kind that make you roll on the ground afterwards] and jump serves [ACE!]. wins and losses. injuries and recoveries.
Put me in, Coach. I’m ready.

Ready to take on the world…all by myself. I don’t want to miss me anymore. I’m ready to laugh out loud. Ready to get addicted all over again. Ready to read each and every word [and in between the lines]. Ready to hammer every ball that comes my way. Ready to dare myself and sneak around for an extra hour of lunch to find life’s rush.
Put me in, God. I’m ready.

Reusable Bags are my friends.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/02/11/AR2009021104352.html?hpid=moreheadlines

Yay for DC! Taking that next step -- following the wondorous example of San Francisco, in due time. This is an excellent idea!

Although, I forsee it being hard for street vendors to impose this 5 cent fee. I buy a hot dog lunch special for $2 regularly. 2 single bills. And now, you want me to add 5 more cents. What if I only have dollar bills? That's just a headache. For the vendor. For the hungry people lining up behind me, who now have to wait for the vendor to give me change. It's such a minimal fee. I know. I know. It could add up. But think! How much easier would it be in the supermarket. Safeway could literally just attach the fee at the end of the receipt, just like they do with sales tax. No biggie. Automated and hassle-free.

And OoOoO! 20 plastic bags (@ 5 cents each) = 1 reusable bag at your local Target/Safeway/Giant/[insert name of supermarket you frequent here] (unless of course, Whole Foods and Trader Joes sells them for more)!

This will give grocers the incentive to not only buy, but continually bring reusable bags. I've bought a couple myself. Often times, I'll forget the bags at home or I won't anticipate needing one for the day - so I just buy another one. This has happened often, so I now own about 4 reusable bags (and that's after giving away a couple). One from Giant Eagle. One from Forever 21 (mad random). One from Giant. And another from Giant Eagle. I made a lot of unexpected trips to Giant Eagle after class while in Pittsburgh last year. But it all works out, I can keep one at work, 2 at home (since I'm more likely to do heavy shopping on the weekends), and another in my cubby hole at school ;)

And the funds generated from this fee better go towards what they say it will. Clean up that River!

But, let's not forget -- Congress has to approve. Will they go for it? Will they allow DC to make a step towards environmental justice (EJ) (reducing plastic waste AND cleaning up a nasty river?) Given the stimulus bill, Congress may put off reviewing this sooner than later. Poor EJ. 

5 RandomnessesS

Top 5 List of the Day:

#1: TRAVEL: SOoOOoOO excited to see JULIA (my newborn niece) FINALLY in less than 48 hours!!! Phoenix, here I come :) Make sure to check Facebook for all the pics and videos I will be taking.
#2: SYSTEMS SYNTHESIS PROJECT: You are a trip. evasive objectives. and requiring too much of my time.
#3: CELEBRITIES: I'm dying to hear Rihanna speak up.
#4: FOOD: Yay! for DC Restaurant Week with my fave classmates. Details on dining at [unrevealed restaurant] later! maybe...
#5: RANDOMNESSESSSS: I'm still highly impressed by Secretary Arne Duncan ("please... call me Arne") and his amazing communicative abilities...even after a week has passed since I saw him speak at the Dept's Black History Month event. (Check him out in today's NYTimes)

#6: BONUS!!: I'm going to buy at least 10 books of Forever Stamps before the U.S. Postal Service increases the price on May 11th! We're in a recession - anything to save $!

E^3

Welcome to Spur of My Moments.

I thought it was only appropriate to start this blog TODAY...because I finally decided on a name for it. Thanks for all the suggestions fRiendS, and special thanks to JAB!

I'm living my LIFE like it's golden! 

Remix: I'm living my life with the three E's! 

02/09/09 (a week ago)
Today, I'm planning on following some advice to live life with the three E's.

Energy. I need it in my life. Especially, when my BS are high, I need more. Exercise helps! Gosh, I wish I could go back to the days when I played volleyball every afternoon at 4:00pm. It was a routine. It was energetic. It was my life. Oh, plus the 1.5 hours of dance every weekday during my lunch period. But, at least, I have the Washington Sports Club (WSC). And I LOVE the WSC because even though my training sessions with Jerald have ended, this gym is so conveniently located. right downstairs. Plus, there's always some semi-cute, sweaty eye candy. Haha. I was once accused - in the fifth grade by the notorious substitute teacher, Ms. Bryant, of liking only sweaty men 'cause I said Ben Affleck was a hottie in Armaggedon, especially when he was perspiring. ;) Anywho, WSC has been welcoming from the start. I received a free week guest pass so I could survey their group classes. And! Best of all, I received a personalized, hand-written letter from Patrick, the guy who signed me up. "See you when your ankle heals!" See, they have supportive staff. Most of all, I love WSC because it uplifts my levels of energy, both physically and emotionally. Or I could hit up Eschena before the start of my work day for that SG SF Vanilla Latte ;)

Enthusiasm. Am I having the case of the Mondays? Of course not! Happy Monday (with a pinch of sarcasm)! Okay, so I'm trying. I'm trying to be more enthusiastic about coming to work on a Monday morning. Oh, and then, head to class for three hours afterwards. Of course, I didn't want to just hang out on the National Mall in the nice, sunny, spring(ish) weather. To read. To lounge. To run a mile around the Monument. To dream about what President Obama might be doing in the Capitol at this. very. moment. Seriously, I'm enthusiastic about Monday. Hmmm. why? I'm enthusiastic to start another grueling, but pleasantly challenging week of physical activity at the gym! Love to feel the burn! Love to feel the muscles breaking down to build back up! And Mondays are enthusiastically perfect for reflecting on my weekend with my favorite colleagues. Had a good analysis convo with a male colleague about "He's Just Not That Into Me". I defended it, while he classified it as confirmation of America's anti-intellectualism. So, then, I recommended "Slumdog Millionaire" as a must-see and the E Street Cinema as a must-go!
More than anything else, I'm enthusiastic for Mondays because I get to plan for the upcoming weekend!

Empathy. I read a short article in the Express this morning about how people who have been laid off perceive the recession and their employment to be a double-headed sword. On the one hand, they have no salaries, no workplace, and no way to pay their bills. On the other hand, they have the opportunity to engage in activities that they never had time for before. I emphatize with them. On my days off, I love how I have more time to clean up my room, do my hair, and pay my bills. To walk around Washington D.C. and to get caught up on my homework.

02/16/09

I'm still living my life with the 3 E's!

Briefly...

Energy: Tons of it!

Enthusiasm: Tons of it!

Empathy: Tons of it!

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Random Notes: 

Good luck with The Renaissance event tonight, T!