Sparkling Conversation

Things that are Currently Making me Happy

2010-09-24T05:57:00.000-07:00

1. PureLife Conference this weekend. (You can still sign up or read the blog!)

2. My friend changing her blog from "Young, Fabulous, & Single" to "Young, Fabulous, & Falling in Love...Finally!"

3. Fall is officially HERE! Starbucks, you make me LAUGH!

4. The new line from White House/Black Market

5. Getting Re-Tweeted on Twitter

6. Taking a break from my PureLife Marketing Director duties and going to watch the Fighting Camels play football Saturday afternoon. (How will I wear ORANGE?)

7. Charity giving me the great idea of an ORANGE scarf instead of a shirt

7. Celebrating Shawntyee's Birthday with Sunday Brunch at 411 West wearing my new WHBM outfit!

8. Palate Profiler: A Charleston Food Blog written by one of my favorite people!

Hans wanted to eat at "The Pig Stand" while we were driving through Daytona on Sunday...

2008-07-16T08:56:00.000-07:00

Since he doesn't know what the Floridians actually think of that part of the state, I went along with him. I'll admit. I have been slightly curious all these years. Once we got there, I found my favorite recycled artist dropped some of his chickens there!

Yes, one of the largest Harley-Davidson store in the world was next door.

No, we didn't go check it out. (We probably should have just for the experience!)

I'm just not one of those girls who gets excited about a Harley. Can I appreciate a guy who rides one? Sure, as long as I already appreciate him for things that have nothing to do with what is hanging out in his garage.

My former extreme distaste for the logo, was born of one too many days stuck in the middle of Myrtle Beach Biker Week traffic while in town visiting my customers. It is just not fun to see a guy who hasn't showered in days, shaved in months, or bought a shirt that fits in years accidentally flashing me as he leans over beside the handlebars to spit on the sidewalk.

My opinion has slowly changed over the past year. I'm sure my clean cut co-worker buying one and then Todd Bentley wearing Harley-Davidson emblazoned shirts has contributed to that.

For the foodies out there who are wondering if the BBQ pork was good: It wasn't up to Carolina's vinegar standards but the pulled chicken was delicious!

Brooke & Steve's Wedding!

2008-07-15T21:20:00.000-07:00

2008-06-30T04:36:00.000-07:00

My sister has an internship with this incredibly amazing fashion empire in New York City this summer.

We were visiting her this weekend. One of her new friends has been super excited about being able to go tour a REAL FARM. (For the few of you who don't know, my father runs one of the largest poultry companies in existence.)

Alisha leans over before church started on Sunday and says, "Jaine called yesterday and wanted to know if my family wouldn't like to go with her on the farm tour that afternoon. I told her that you all would probably just prefer to stay in the city."

Love those Mountainiers!

2008-06-15T21:40:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Hebron Rock Colony which Garrett & Lauren Cho introduced me to (known to the locals like Matt as "the broken dam"... still unsure Ceeece knows where it is)

One of my next door neighbors (growing up at home AND at the beach), Lauren, brought her friend, Stacey, from App.

You climb up this low incline waterfall and have to find a way to jump from rock to rock. There were quite a few "I wish I had a stunt double" jumps!
The views down the mountain were GORGEOUS. The pictures don't even do them justice!

I LOVED THIS PLACE!! Seriously, you should go!
We had a few scary moments with the snakes. You are jumping from boulder to boulder and aren't expecting any wildlife. Lauren almost stuck her hand right on these two guys!

Thanks to Amy, Garrett, Shannon, Lauren Cho & Lauren Lewis who either provided the ideas or went alone with me!

WELCOME TO BOONE

2008-05-26T20:29:00.001-07:00

I just got to Boone, NC and I'm hanging out here (aka WORKING for a few days).

My plans are to work hard during the day and then see the area once I'm in town. I just discovered "The Horn of the West" which is an outdoor drama but it doesn't open until June so I will just have to schedule another trip up here after the opening date.

I'm open to suggestions for what you Mountainers think I should do while I'm here!

Change of perspective...

2008-04-06T20:27:00.000-07:00

I really have had a hard time blogging over the past year. My focus of what I have found interesting has changed. Priorities change.

Also, I can now share photos over facebook with people which is completely fun and was one of the main purposes of me starting this blog in the first place. I wanted you to explore my life in South Carolina with me while I was living down there as a way to stay connected to my friends & fam.

I'll be in and out but it probably won't be the same type of stuff.

Easter Egg Hunt in Wrightsville: A little family competition

2008-03-22T10:45:00.001-07:00

That's my dad. The master of ceremonies for this event. In his wisdom, he added the rule that an egg was deducted from your final tally for every time you shoved a sibling.

John and Alisha were actually really sad about this new rule. I, however, was THRILLED. At 27, I just don't think I should be getting knocked down by my little brother.
That didn't necessarily stop him but those pictures are on my mother's camera. There were also no rules against stealing your sisters' Easter eggs during the count to see who found the most.

We don't know this girl but she was interesting.

I thought the Holy Spirit was on ORU's Side

2008-03-20T15:38:00.000-07:00

Basketball brackets.

Completely Addicting.

The last three hours of my work day SUCKED. I knew it would be tough and purposefully didn't look at my bracket score until afterwards. I love this part where all the points start adding up while the games are being played. It is like watching your bank account increase instantaneously! Free money!

I opened up my computer...

I AM DEAD LAST. DEAD LAST.

DEAD LAST.

I'm #27.

People who have never been to a basketball game are doing better than I am. That's what I get for picking Oral Robert's University!

I'll keep you posted.

PAINFUL!! Thanks, Ceeece, for this material!

2008-03-15T15:12:00.000-07:00

It had seemed a romantic and highly original way to propose to the love of your life with a £6,000 diamond ring. Lefkos Hajji, 28, wanted to make his engagement one his girlfriend would never forget, only to have his dreams cruelly snatched from his grasp by a gust of wind.

Rather than simply dropping to one knee before Leanne, 26, he told a florist to put her engagement ring in a silver helium balloon. But no sooner had he left the shop when his plans backfired spectacularly and the balloons blew away - taking the ring with them.

Keeping his prize in sight, Mr Hajji, from Hackney, London, pursued the balloons for two hours in his car across London before giving them up as lost. He told the Sun newspaper: "I couldn't believe it. I just watched as it went further and further into the air.

"I felt like such a plonker. It cost a fortune and I knew my girlfriend would kill me. I though I would give Leanne a pin so I could literally pop the question."

While Mr Hajji hopes the ring will still turn up, his girlfriend, as he suspected, was apparently less than impressed. Florist Helen Savva, of Cockfosters, London, told the newspaper: "I thought he was taking a risk. I said, 'I hope you hold onto it'."

Love the colored tights!

2008-03-14T15:22:00.000-07:00

I am not AS EXCITED about the warmer weather as I am usually.

Why?

Because I became addicted to the fashion of tights and boots with dresses and skirts this season.

I'm not ready to go back to sandals...especially as a white girl who is really trying not to get a tan. Who wants skin cancer at 40?

I'm Telling You...Panera is the place!

2008-02-27T15:52:00.001-08:00

Update: I just ended up at a social gathering where two of the people met at Panera.

Just remember, you heard it here first!

Facebook: How do I love thee? Let me count the ways?

2008-02-22T07:46:00.000-08:00

I love thee to the height and depth and breadth my internet soul can reach...

Okay, just kidding.

I thought about ripping this fabulous Browning material for my internet addiction but then realized I don't love it enough to expend the creativity that would require.

There is a new face around here and there which I'm thrilled about...I am so sad that the rest of you are missing out on all the fun.

The Jerks...

2008-02-20T17:57:00.000-08:00

Red paint splashed on UNC's Old Well
Vandalism comes on eve of tonight's NCSU-UNC game

"UNC-Chapel Hill police want to find out who splashed a cup of red paint onto the iconic Old Well early this morning. The paint was splashed on one of the white columns supporting the Old Well roof. It was repainted white at about 8 a.m.

The vandalism took place on the eve of UNC-Chapel Hill's ACC basketball showdown with N.C. State University. The Heels play the Wolfpack at 7 tonight at the RBC Center in Raleigh.
Graffiti chalked on the brick sidewalk surrounding the landmark were also removed, and wet red bricks were the only remnant of the vandalism.

"All we've got is very limited information," said Department of Public Safety spokesman Randy Young. "There was a cup [with red paint residue] that was left on the scene." The incident reminded Young of a similar act that occurred before the North Carolina/N.C. State game in 2005. In that incident, Young said he thinks police caught the vandals in the act of stenciling an N.C. State logo onto the bricks.

The Old Well once served as the only source of water for the Old East and Old West dorms at the heart of campus. It took its present design in 1897 under the presidency of President Edwin Alderman."

This makes me appreciate our Duke rivals so much more. Calling us names and breaking our favorite player's nose is one thing (Okay, well the blood was a bit much) but defiling the Old Well... that's something only our frat boys are allowed to do!

Because of Sandra's Post

2008-02-19T18:09:00.000-08:00

I've been living and breathing work for the past twelve days. I officially have a reason not to read the local papers. (Not that I read them before. Let's face it, NPR and the BBC are my daily sources. If I were to read the paper it would be the Guardian...I'm wondering exactly when I am going to realize I need to face the facts of my heart and move to London.)

In the midst of all the work, I finished reading Vanity Fair (not to be confused with the magazine, folks) which is one of my all-time favorite books. I'm seriously considering Dr. Zhivago next and I'd really like to find a few friends who read the classics and THEN watch the movies with me for a slightly more informed movie night. (Cough. Cough. SANDRA! Cough. Cough.) Katye's already working on the book list! We could start with Jane Eyre ;)

I have a confession: I cry when I hear coverage on Hillary's campain. Actually, it could almost be termed "weeping". It doesn't last that long but it takes me by surprise. I have yet to discover why I'm crying which makes it even more curious but I do know the only other time I get this type of feeling is when I hear coverage on September 11th unexpectedly. I guess you'll just have to stay tuned to Election '08 to find if it is because I have some unconscious knowldege she is going to win or it is a premonition that she is the American embodiement of Sauron.

For all of you wondering where the young, single people are in the Triangle...they are hanging out at Panera working on their dissertations or having Bible Study. I've been working here a lot for the past three weeks and I've never seen anything like it. I guess it really is no lie that the way to a man's heart really is through his stomach. If you don't believe that, I'll just refer you to Jim's blog.

Mt. Fuji's for Lucinda

2008-02-04T23:35:00.000-08:00

Lucinda, Sandra, Brittany and I after work on Friday in Brightleaf Square's Mt. Fuji. SO FUN!

I've done three straight days of Asian food. Two of which were spent at Shiki Sushi in my neighborhood. The sushi is great and it is BOGO every day. I'm IN LOVE with that place but if I go it can't just be once in a week.

I really do start to crave it! Char, Parrum and I went on Sunday and then Lucinda and I went back on Monday. Yum!

Only Guitar Lovers Need Apply

2008-02-01T06:20:00.000-08:00

I love that Jon Eric captured the perfect picture of Mr. Ernie hanging out in his studio. That is the wall of everyone he's ever played with...look closely. You'll be impressed!

2008-01-27T20:25:00.000-08:00

Gregorian chants, organ solos, candlelit santuarys filled with incense, and hot tea in the courtyard afterwards.

I have a new amazing way to spend the last few hours of Sunday evening...

"Set your minds on the things that are above, where Christ is." The ancient monastic service of Compline, the "completion" of the day, is offered in our church every Sunday evening during the university semester at 9:30 pm. An organ improvisation follows the 25-minute service. Come join us and put all of your comings and goings, your beginnings and endings, and everything in-between into the loving hands of God."

You should come with me one evening.

aXcess Encounter Friday, Feb. 2nd @ 7:30pm

2008-01-23T14:00:00.000-08:00

aXcess Encounter is a monthly ministry gathering of singles and newlyweds

Friday, Feb 2nd: 7:30pm-10pm

KPIC Fellowship Hall

Purpose: To provide a window of opportunity for people to encounter Christ and one another in safety, honesty, and intimacy such that lives are transformed through worship, teaching, encouragement, prayer, and fellowship.
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Childcare provided.
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Need info? merr.cho@gmail.com

2008-01-12T07:34:00.000-08:00

Two names you go by:
1. Kristinmichelle
2. KT (I've finally accepted it after 25 years of being annoyed. Once Jason, Matt, Sandra & Facebook mass media-ed it, there was no stopping fate and my childhood friends picked it back up. I realized I'd turned a corner when I went to Encounter and almost wrote it on the name tag bc it was so much easier.)

Two things you are wearing right now:
1. Long sleeve, navy T-Shirt with a white "Duplin Air" logo. Proof of the summer I took flying lessons before JFK Jr. crashed and I freaked thus ending one of my family's legacies of everyone having your pilot's license.

2. Marc Jacobs Perfume

Two of your favorite things to do:

1. Wake up early on Saturday mornings and then spend all morning in bed with my laptop, NPR, and whatever TV DVD series I'm working my way through.

2. Explore. I love exploring. Everything and anything...Roads, towns, shops, people, ideas, conversations, internet, books, countries, rituals, traditions...

Two things you want very badly at the moment:
1. A word from God that explains my current life in great and specific detail. I don't want the future...I absolutely abhore spoilers. Okay, maybe just a few future facts...

2. Indian food delivered to my house. So I can watch The Holiday while I eat lunch and before I start the day and meet Kim, then Ben & Michelle, then Jaimie and company and it is two am and my day is over.

Two people who will fill this out: aka My Wish List
1. Sandra (Because I think it would be fun.)
2. Jim (Because turning this type of mundane stuff into extreme entertainment is what he trumps all of is at...)

Two things you did last night:
1. Crashed on Jaimie's couch, rotted my brain by watching two episodes of 90210 (does anyone remember where all of Dylan's money came from), petted Lucy, thoroughly discussed what is wrong with all of you, and made our own wedding registry up for Kimberly.

2. Showed up around 9pm to have all my expectations for the night blown by Isabelle Allum's talk about God & the prophetic.

Two things you ate today
1. Some of Barbara's Peanut Butter Puffin's Cereal (dry)

2. I haven't gotten any further than that (I normally don't eat until much, much, MUCH later in the day on the weekends. Bad habit, I know.)

Two people you last talked to:
1. Ben
2. Does Han's voicemail count? If not, then the third to last person would have been Betsy.

Two things you're doing tomorrow:
1. Going to church and judging dance tryouts for the Campus Harvest Dance Team.

2. Spending time with awesome people (and keeping my fingers crossed).

Longest trips taken

1. For Work: Nine months in Charleston, SC and two months in Orlando, FL

2. For Pleasure: 20 days... Tie between this summer in Italy, France, Switzerland & England and a trip to the Dominican Republic when I still had summer vacations.

Your favorite holidays:
1. Groundhog's Day

2. July 4th

(I decided you all would cover the big stuff. I took the days fun traditions happen that take you by surprise.)

Two favorite beverages:

1. Rich, full-bodied red wine

2. Almost anything the last guy I dated was drinking. He had great taste, obviously.

HOWEVER, since I no longer do the alcohol thing

1. Skim, Sugar-free decaf lattes from Bean Trader's

2. Intensely frigid Diet Coke

Even as I write this, I am intensely aware of the definition of sacrifice.

Slight insight into family life...

2008-01-11T06:30:00.000-08:00

Mom received a rocking ring for Christmas which Alisha and I picked out for Santa (with Char's help) since his reindeer are still in physical therapy.

With ten minutes, a few quarters, a creative inspiration, and the camera I generally carry in my purse, we suddenly had more than just a fancy ring box to give our mother.

This is part of the book my bella madre received along with her ring.

The Christmas Miracle

For those of you who don't know my sister, she'd probably appreciate me telling you that the idea hit on Christmas Eve at Best Buy so there was no time for hair and makeup.

2008-01-09T23:30:00.000-08:00

Glasses shopping is hard work. After two months of MANY pairs of frames, I think I have finally found the perfect fit...and they are PURPLE which is one of my least favorite colors but I love the glasses.

Photo documented evidence that I tried to love Chanel eyewear.

2008-01-08T18:44:00.003-08:00

1. I'm reading Guns, Germs & Steel

2. I still love my Gilmore Girls DVDs

3. Cuties are back in season at Target...hooray for citrus fruit that decorates my coffee table and tastes sweet

4. Why don't they make movies about falling out of love with someone - it is an important life experience that gets completely ignored

5. I heard on the radio that a kid super glued himself to his bedpost in the middle of the night so he didn't have to go back to school but the EMT squad got there early enough to send him to class on time

Happy New Year!

2008-01-03T20:08:00.000-08:00

Christmas at "Home" in Wrightsville

2007-12-29T20:29:00.000-08:00

Lucinda & Kristin's Ugly Christmas Sweater Thrift Store Shopping Trip Fabulousness

2007-12-23T19:08:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday, Christmas Babes!

2007-12-14T05:35:00.000-08:00

The only decent picture of me (until the Mr. Garcia's of the world upload their photos) is my head turned towards Sarah!

My camera is out of commission until I reclaim my battery charger I left in Wrightsville!

Check Eddie's blog for a few more pictures!

2007-12-13T22:31:00.001-08:00

"Fun and excitement will soon be yours."
Thus sayeth
the bottle cap of my Jones Soda Root Beer

PS What other NC college football team has ever been in the running for a three year national championship?

The way they roughed up Michigan...Good luck, Mountaineers!

Little dustballs sure do grow up cute! The App Fan in the center is our "girl next door" in both K'ville and Topsail. We love her enough to cheer for another football team for a weekend!

Summer Time!

2007-12-12T05:33:00.000-08:00

2007-12-06T19:59:00.000-08:00

Peppermint Bark. Eggnog Lattes (At Bean Trader's...SERIOUSLY don't waste your time with the Starbucks stuff). The 24 hour Christmas Radio Stations. Our church's Christmas choir is so good it impresses even me and I'm not often blown away by music in a church...I guess I've been spoiled with a lot of good praise and worship bands. Christmas shopping in cold weather. I love Christmas.

Kristin is ____________________.

2007-11-21T06:34:00.001-08:00

Kristin is loving Facebook and thinks you all should have accounts because you would be shocked at how many of your friends already do!

London

2007-11-14T12:05:00.000-08:00

2007-11-13T20:03:00.000-08:00

Drip.

It is amazing to me that falling water can be one of God's most beautiful creations or Chinese torture.

(Here's a blast from the past photo of a place in the Dominican Republic I visited YEARS ago!)

What I've been up to the past month...

2007-11-08T05:47:00.000-08:00

Stapling fabric samples Charleigh and I bought three months ago at the Stock Exchange to my wall. Reading lots of books. Watching a lot of Alias. Playing Mah Jong Solitare and NOT coming any closer to my last year's high score (how in the world am I not getting any better??). Drinking a lot of water and kicking my Diet Coke habit. Getting to know my chiropractor's office really well. New women's book study at my house where God rocks our world. On-line window shopping. Laying in bed.

Talking on the phone, catching up on friends' lives (loving Jenny's new promo shots!) and staring at my ceiling. Practicing my guitar chords. Spending a lot of time in orthopedic doctors' waiting rooms. Getting better at picking things up with my toes. Getting good one on one time with my close friends who visit.

Went from 40 Facebook friends to 127 and lost all my pirate gold. Lying on my couch watching my mom clean my apartment. Not driving. Listening to A LOT of podcasts...totally love Mosaic Church & Bethel. Much to the delight of many in my life, I am finally responding "no" to every Evite I get (funny I was finally forced to this). Praying. Starting to think about decorating my apartment since I now spend so much time there. Learning to just "BE STILL" and let God.

Eating all ten of the famous Henderson cookies even though I said I couldn't (Yeah, not one made it to the freezer)! Physical therapy. Finally switching to decaf coffee (apparently you can't mix the real stuff with mild narcotics). Finally getting to hang out with my sister at my apartment on Sunday afternoons (I was always too busy to do that before even though she was one of the biggest reasons I wanted to move back to Durham.) Wearing jeans almost every day (that hasn't happened...ever). Learing how to praise the Lord. Going almost two months without wearing stillettos. Finally starting to figure out who I am (It is amazing how much better you can get to know someone you've been living with 24/7 for 27 years.)

2007-11-04T16:33:00.000-08:00

I'm in my room.

It is a Sunday night.

My sister is studying for the spelling and grammar test.

I am playing mah jong solitare.

My life is good.

Cyber Space Materializes & Other Updates

2007-10-18T06:22:00.000-07:00

1. Rhymes with Gin finally came to Durham. Unfortunately, I had four months of reports due that Monday morning so my world was very small.

2. We lost the game to South Carolina last weekend. So sad. After two years of hearing about this game from my Columbia co-workers, it wasn't fun to loose! I will add some pictures from the game.

3. My chiropractor is my new best friend. At three times a week, I see her more than I see my neighbors.

4. I love Facebook. I broke down about a month ago and I think it may be one of the most genius things ever invented.

5. I went to Richmond yesterday. It still blows my mind that there is a highway in the capital of the Confederacy named "Powhite". It also blows my mind that no one else seems to get it...

6. Finished Season 1 of Alias. I through season 3 almost four years ago so I had forgotten almost everything that happened and couldn't watch seasons 4 & 5. It motivated me to try french braiding my hair. Haven't done that since high school dance class... I still think Sydney looks like one of my best friends.

7. Have had two embarassing situations this week regarding my cell phone. Now, I have sworn to let this be the extent of the voicemails I leave, "Hey, this is Kristin. Call me."

8. Still undecided what my costume will be this Halloween. How do you top the "Poultry Princess" outfit in levels of "Over the Top" and "Awful"?

Time for Another Game of "Name Kristin's Favorite Landmarks"

2007-10-09T16:47:00.000-07:00

Hint: In the 80s, was the second largest tourist attraction in the country and ONLY Disney Land/Disney World could produce more guests.

We Won! Goodbye Miami.

2007-10-08T01:58:00.000-07:00

Traveling in the Poconos

2007-10-02T20:06:00.000-07:00

Picture yourself sitting at a mahagony desk composing an email on a decorated landing at the top of the stair. You can look down over the balcony onto the first floor which is equally decorated. Okay, don't picture yourself, picture me. This is what I was doing at ten thirty last night in my hotel since I didn't feel like lugging my laptop through security for a two day trip up North.

Such a calming and relaxing environment with classical music softly playing in the background. Then, I hear the rushing of heavy feet up the stairs behind me while someone else is running towards me from down the hall. The man on the stairs yells to his companion, "Did you see which way he went?" "No sign of him!" They both part ways rushing off in different directions. "He has to be here! He can't be far!"

I'm trying to pretend that I don't notice but the first guy is wearing a shirt that advertises some sort of enforcement agency. However, since when do police officers wear really poorly screenprinted T-shirts? He comes running back in and asks me if I have seen anyone come through there. I told him a man in a yello shirt had been waiting for the computer. The guy's eyes popped open and he leans over the railing and yells, "Get up here now!" His friend comes racing down the hall towards him. "Did you get see him?" "Yes! He had a yellow shirt, was tall, and had black hair, too! We've got him now! He ran into a room though," was the response.

The next thing I know, I hear a walkie talkie going off downstairs. Two more men join the search. They are running back and forth behind me as I type. Shouting, pulling up table skirts and looking in every other possible nook and crany all the while running everywhere they went. I was sure they had tracked a convicted fellon...

BOUNTY HUNTERS!!

I couldn't believe how cool yet still how crazy this was. Was it safe to be in the middle of this? Two words...hostage situation. I did start to get a little fearful. Thirty minutes of this later, after the front desk attendent has called her supervisor to tell them that these strange men are running all over looking for someone, one of the guys comes up to me.

"I'm sorry if we made you feel uncomfortable."

I almost just dismissed him with a nod yet I was TOO curious. "Oh, that's okay. I was just worried it may not be safe to stay here tonight. I wasn't sure what happened."

He stands there looking completely serious as possible and says, "Well, SOME PEOPLE think that it is OKAY to break into VENDING MACHINES."

I blinked.

I blinked twice.

Vending machines. VENDING MACHINES? Are you kidding me! All that over a VENDING MACHINE? Four grown men running for at least thirty minutes like there is a bomb hidden somewhere for that!

"Really!" I said to him since I had no other words at the moment.

"OH YES!" he responded. "But don't you worry, we'll get him. IT'S NOT OVER YET. WE'LL FIND 'EM."

Flowers, Magazines, & Shoes...It doesn't get much better

2007-09-30T23:30:00.000-07:00

My two newest magazine subscriptions; Christianity Today and National Geographic.

Just a shadow of myself

2007-09-27T21:53:00.000-07:00

I've been in a lot of pain over the past three to four weeks and yesterday was the first time that I have actually felt normal.

It was like I woke up from a really blase version of myself.

I never thought about pain being attitude altering.

True Life

2007-09-24T18:19:00.000-07:00

I am pleasantly surprised by how much I have enjoyed reading this book.

Who needs Jason Bourne when you have the real thing?

It gives an in depth account of what was going on after September 11th involving the war in Afghanistan. Woodward interviewed so many people involved including Colin Powell, Rumsfield, Condaleza Rice, the heads of the CIA, FBI, NSA and the Joint Chiefs as well as two interviews with President Bush, himself. So far, it seems to be the Bush Administration's story because there have been very few Democrats even quoted. However, the intelligence agency leaders are said to be fairly non-partisian and served multiple presidents. I guess the purpose of the book is to explain why Bush did what he did. Woodward doesn't tell you what his thoughts really are. Of course, every reporter has an opinion and the way they report the story can be powerful.

I read The Agenda in college, his book on the first 100 days of the Clinton Administration that Mrs. Clinton enthusiastically cooperated with him on but then tried to have recalled once she realized he wasn't quite as pro-Democrat as it would seem.
I'm interested to read the other two books Bob Woodward has since written on the Iraq war; Plan of Attack and State of Denial.

It's All Fun and Games Until Someone Gets Hurt

2007-09-23T16:42:00.000-07:00

This weekend, I read an article by a very talented writer that I knew in college. Hilarious. I was seriously laughing out loud. Until I got to paragraph eleven and started recognizing the characters in her story...

...OUCH!

haha. I guess you'll never know what magazine you will make an appearance in...

Did she REAALLY say that?

2007-09-20T23:06:00.000-07:00

Read on Facebook:

"My residencey of Charleston only lasted three days, yet I could spend a lifetime meeting Citadel cadets, groups of wonderful looking young men, in marvelous physical condition, what beautiful creatures they are, so crisp and so powerful. I fear they have seduced me, and I enjoy my fears..." ~Princess Diana

Hahaha.

There's so much more...not to mention that you need a violin playing goat

2007-09-19T06:11:00.000-07:00

It is funny how much your perspective can change on something in just a year or two.

I guess as I look at the people around me and live their lives with them, I've started to realize how serious a lifetime commitment really is.

.
I like hearts and flowers. Facing your flaws and really being able to look in the mirror and be honest about the imperfections...

completely off my list of fun things to do.

There is one couple, in particular, who have really encouraged me to step away from what I'm good at and spend concentrated time facing up and having the courage to look at the flawed areas I generally chose to ignore. I honestly didn't have much of a choice. It hurts but I think that it was the grace of God that I wasn't allowed to rest in false confidence forever.

By the way, I found Hugh Grant and Julia Robert's blue door in Notting Hill while visiting London this summer. The owners have cashed in on the movie, naming their gift shop "The Blue Door".

Hans in California

2007-09-18T03:57:00.000-07:00

Free Sample!

2007-09-17T02:42:00.000-07:00

Macy's Magnificant Mascara Exchange

Bring your old mascara to one of our counters and we’ll replace it with a free mascara sample.

September 19 -22 only. One per customer, while supplies last.

I knew there was a reason not to throw away my old ones...more than just they could be of good use in some future art project!

2007-09-17T02:03:00.000-07:00

Psalm 30:5

For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.

Isaiah 25:8

he will swallow up death forever. The Sovereign LORD will wipe away the tears from all faces; he will remove the disgrace of his people from all the earth. The LORD has spoken.

1 Thes. 3-4

So that no one would be unsettled by these trials. You know quite well that we were destined for them. In fact, when we were with you, we kept telling you that we would be persecuted. And it turned out that way, as you well know.

John 16:33

I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.

2007-09-14T05:11:00.000-07:00

I ran into my sister and her friend at the mall and then we bumped into Kim J. about ten minutes later who was headed to meet Julie. As we were talking, this guy who thought he was a player walked right up to our group and said, "Hey, ladies" and just stood there expectantly with no intention of walking away. Okay, if he were 25, this wouldn't be worth mentioning but he looked no older than 13.

What was funny is that Kim and I kept talking (after I looked at him and said, "Bye") but I hear Alisha (who still isn't believing this kid is hitting on any of us) say, "Do you know one of us?"

"No, but you sure are looking fine."

The lights went on for Alisha and she shooed him away. Then, he proceeded to stand 15 feet away with his fellow pre-teen friend and stare. The next thing I know, Alisha has closed the distance in between them and is asking this kid how old he is and giving him a mini-scolding about how we are older and he should not be talking to us that way.

It didn't seem to go incredibly well but I still really admired her effort!

Three Days on the Grand Strand

2007-09-13T07:08:00.000-07:00

Monday night was our time dedicated to the fun tackiness of Broadway at the Beach.

Spinning teacups, giant smoking dragon boots, and giant, spinning hurricanes at the Jimmy Buffet restaurant that mixed drinks in a giant blender were a few of the things that made the awesome Michael Jackson impersonator at our party the next night look normal. I, of course, went home hours before any of the other crowd ever thought about ending the night.

The cute didn't last for too long because they started rushing me when I kneeled to take a picture.

The customer appreciation party on Tuesday night was great networking.

I have a new favorite chef.

A comforting sight...especially since I'd had no good coffee

for three days!

2007-09-12T21:09:00.000-07:00

I am loving this book.

I went to Barnes and Noble tonight after my small group with the girls and blew through half the book when I only meant to flip through a few pages. Memoirs and biographies are becoming a category I enjoy because of books like this.

I do not understand the two Amazon customers who gave it bad reviews.

Hometown Proud

2007-09-10T19:33:00.001-07:00

The downtown area of where I grew up. You blink, you seriously missed it.

Besides your clothes, what do you pack for a two night trip?

2007-09-10T17:42:00.000-07:00

Lots and Lots of Bottled Water
Tennis Shoes (you never know)
Stilettos (in case I forgot a party or dinner...clothes are easy to buy but shoes aren't!)
A Magazine (This month's Lucky)
Latest Book (Power of the Praying Woman by Stormie O'Martian)
Laptop (but I forgot the POWER CORD!!)
iPod
Camera

(I am an INCREDIBLY light packer when it comes to clothes. It normally surprises new traveling companions but after all the business trips I've learned that less is DEFINITELY more.)

2007-09-09T19:20:00.000-07:00

A Jaimie bought us matching Ultimate Fighting Championship T-shirts (love it). K I wore jeans to church today (completely uncommon occurance). B Dinner at Hamm's on Franklin Street Friday night with a good crowd, browsing through the used book shop, and hanging out in downtown Durham.

C I am making a conscious effort to purchase clothes that are not "dry clean only" because I no longer want laundry bills to be a normal part of my life. D Made peach streusel muffins for the women's brunch and they did not look the way I envisioned yet they tasted swell. e Deonni & Dr. Hope's testimonies this weekend both made me cry because they so touched my heart. F Realized I live a life of luxury that I do not have to fear being beaten with an electric cattle prodder and face imprisonment to practice my faith.

G I love going to the same church as my younger sister. H I have a new favorite restaurant in downtown Durham in the old Fowler's building (as in, "It could rival Foster's, Charleigh"). I Jason turned a year older and we watched the UNC game and UFC to celebrate.

Little Sisters

2007-09-06T20:28:00.000-07:00

Alisha visiting Jillian in Germany.

Pigeons

2007-09-05T05:34:00.000-07:00

San Marco's Square in Venice, Italy has a few tourist attractions...

The church, the dueling orchestras, and the birds.

Venders sell bags of bird seed to the visitors who then feed it to the pigeons. You hold out your hands and the birds land all over you.

I love this picture of Alisha.

John & Kate saw parents dump some seed on their small son's head and shoulders and then take pictures as the birds sat on his head and shoulders pecking away at the food while he whimpered.

This stowaway and his friends hitched a ride on my backpack as I was walking through the square. He completely surprised me by hopping onto my shoulder and then onto my head. Do the pigeons have talons?
Absolutely! John and some Indian tourists were there to take pictures of my shock.

2007-09-02T05:40:00.001-07:00

I went to a wedding last night where I knew ALL the family on both the bride and groom's sides. It was SO good. Let's start the list...

1. His sister was one of my best friends

2. Her cousin is one of Alisha's best friends

3. For twelve years, he played every sport with John...football, baseball, and soccer

4. We grew up with five of their siblings, fourteen of their cousins and twenty two aunts and uncles.

(That means all the dance recitals, festivals, parades, graduations, piano competitions, tennis matches, football games, science fairs, golf lessons, ski trips, summer afternoons spent at the pool, fights at recess, and every other event of my life at home was attended by at least four but quite frequently up to 43 people from their combined family. That is SERIOUS.)

5. He and his sister went to work for my same company after graduation.

6. They are moving to Florida for her grad school and he will trade in my dad as a boss to work at my uncle's accounting firm.

I Ate WHAT?

2007-08-29T05:55:00.000-07:00

Alison & Carl's Chinese Wedding Banquet was in New Brunswick, NJ so I drove from Philadelphia to attend.

I had a lot of fun but in the twelve courses of food, there were definitely some things that I had NEVER considered eating.

Jellyfish tentacles that I THOUGHT were noodles (I definitely could not have tried that mouthful had I really known), shark fin, abolone, and bird's nest created from the spit of swallows...

The fabulous dragon dance and a Tea Ceremony. The couple honored their elders by serving them tea.

Then there was fun dancing. The "YMCA" transcends cultures!

Three people from three periods of Alison's Education: Julie (Grad School at Purdue), Kara (School of Science & Math), and me (the teen years).

The Lord blessed me to give such a fabulous neighbor and friend during middle & high school!

She is brilliant and now working in D.C. so we'll no longer be hanging out at the pool or Dixie Youth Games to catch up on the news!

Goss-Eng Family Extra (For the Hometown Crowd)

2007-08-29T05:30:00.000-07:00

Mom, Dad, John, & Alisha, everyone says, "Hello!"

Last Week in My Old Home

2007-08-28T06:16:00.001-07:00

You have to love Charleston! It just gets into your blood. I wasn't good about taking pictures when hanging out with friends but I did bring my camera one morning when I ran along the Harbor and the Battery.
The self portraits I took of myself will not be featured here. What was I thinking?

During the last two hours of the foodshow, things can get really slow.

You start posing with chickens!

Here is the BBQ Chicken I stayed up late making the night before as one of my displays.

Last Weekend in Philly

2007-08-26T21:29:00.000-07:00

I spent Friday and Saturday night with Jenny in Philadelphia last weekend.

It was WONDERFUL to get to see her in action as an art gallery owner!

She has taken SERIOUS initiative to be sucessful. I am proud of her!!

Her new uber cool house is within walking distance to the gallery. I love her neighborhood. Everything you need is within a few blocks from her front door!

I got a small taste of dealing with the public while Jenny did a cupcake run and some shopping for a baby shower.

These art students came in, I exhausted all my knowledge on the Naked Paper exhibit in five minutes and it ended in me saying, "The owner will be back in ten minutes!"

We went to one of Jenny's favorite restaurants for Sunday brunch before I drove home.

Our waitress recognized Jenny as, "You run that great gallery, don't you? I've been in there this summer!"

Local celebrity!

Dinner in Chinatown on Friday night. We went to a great Vietnam restaurant.

2007-08-26T20:54:00.000-07:00

"Many Christians are frustrated about the current state of affairs, but they do nothing. They have been slowly lulled into a spiritual sleep that eventually leads to death." Charisma Magazine

I feel as if the Lord is raising a remnant of valiant prayer warriors across denominations around the earth—radical prayer furnaces who are saying, "Lord, we don't want to have just little prayers; we want to go into the heavens and see what is happening so we can impact our world." Charisma

2007-08-20T21:27:00.000-07:00

I'm in Charleston again for work. Tonight, Danielle and Daniel took me to dinner in Mt. P. It was great to hang out with them after an awesome weekend up North.

On the road again...

2007-08-17T03:48:00.000-07:00

I'm headed to Richmond, VA to visit two customers for work and then on up to Philadelphia for the weekend. I'm going to hang with Jenny and then go to a Chinese wedding banquet on Saturday. It really should be a lot of fun.

I am currently trying to psych myself up for the drive but I'll have my iPod which has days of podcasts still left to listen to...which reminds me that I really should charge it while I'm getting ready.

We move Alisha back into the dorm last night. I cannot believe North Campus now has ELEVATORS!! It was the easiest move EVER!

Dad, Mom, and I went to see Rush Hour 3 afterwards.

Runs Deep

2007-08-15T05:54:00.000-07:00

I took a trip to the clearance rack at Dick's Sporting Goods last night. (It is my third favorite clearance rack on the planet.) .

It turned out they were having a great sale on Nike shorts. FABULOUS! I grabbed five different colors and headed to the dressing room. I'm just not a shorts girl. However, it is ridiculously hot these days so I decided it was time I invested in a few pair for running.

I decided neon pink, yellow, and orange were not the colors I wanted so I was left with navy and royal blue. Loved the navy (I'm also not a navy girl). I was definitely getting both pairs. But then, I put on the blue and my heart stopped when I turned around to look in the mirror. I WAS WEARING DOOK BLUE. Oh, heck no! I did try to talk myself into it, at first.

"Kristin, you need shorts. These are a great deal. You won't find them this good for this cheap again. It is blue. Not Dook Blue. Just blue." No, it's not! It is DOOK BLUE. I felt a bit ill. "Kristin, this is ridiculous! It is a school rivalry. You graduated seven years ago. Are you really going to not wear this color for the rest of your life?"

.Folks, I had an epiphany standing right there in that dressing room. I mentally ran my hands through my entire walk in closet and realized I don't own one thing in that color. Not one. I couldn't believe it. I love clothes and I really love color. I mean, I rarely wear sunglasses as anything other than a headband because they filter out the brilliance of the world along with the sunlight. I was an educated woman with a decision to make. Was I really going to limit my world for the rest of my life? .

I took one more look in the mirror and knew with everything in me that I would rather sweat out gallons of water all summer than ever put that color on my body again. I went to Carolina and, while it seems crazy to the rest of the world, that means a whole lot more than a silly color. I felt so passionately about it in the moment that I almost left the store without buying a thing! .

...

I wanted to start singing, "I'm a TarHeel born, I'm a TarHeel bred and when I die I'll be a TarHeel dead!" In truth, I'm a Sunshine born, I'm a Seminole bred but when I die I'll be a TarHeel dead and when I sing that song I believe it. .

Besides, this is the family that brought their photographer all the way to Chapel Hill to have their portraits done by the Old Well when we won the National Championship in 2005!

2007-08-14T05:05:00.000-07:00

"I understand a fury in your words

But not your words."

William Shakespeare, Othello Act 4, Scene 2

I have always thought this about Chinese while watching Joy Luck Club for the umptenth time.

(Of course, Shakespeare's brilliance in these two lines is based on the fact that he is talking to someone whose language and emotion he understands, just not their reasoning. Sigh. Let me just take a moment to put my hand over my heart in silent thanks for W.S.)

I am signing up for fall classes at a Chinese Language School!

It is a three year program that I'll be joining. I've been interested in China for years. (Well documented since I was 15.) Of course, having a heart for the nations, there are more than a few other countries that have my equal intrest. I was that kid who grabbed the latest copy of National Geographic out of the mailbox to read and then drempt for hours of far off places.

I just thought that Chinese is the hardest out of all the other languages I would want to know so it is better to do it when I live in a place that I would get a lot of opportunity to practice with native speakers. Especially since the church will be starting a Mandarin service in the future!

It isn't even that I currently have a burning desire or even a strong interest in ever living in China. I don't know that much about it, really. You just never know what life will throw at you and I'd like to learn the language. I guess I'm realizing it is possible to be prepared for life instead of surprise by it. I really want to take some of the free time I have now and invest into myself.

Titles

2007-08-13T06:29:00.000-07:00

A friend gave me her business card for a new job she started while I was in Europe.

I got to know her because there was a time when working in the world of sales was very tough and I needed another woman with high standards to advise me. A mutual friend put us in conact. She laid it out for me and continues to be a wonderful resource. She is one of those people I can talk to about my work, my faith, volunteering, and family. I love her style when it comes to life, love, and fun and always get refreshingly upfront, realistic yet positive opinions. It is great to come away feeling like there is someone else out there like me who is just 13 years further down the path.

I just put her card in my wallet after reading all of her new titles but today I saw some things typed on the back of her card along with the mailing address which I hadn't noticed before:

Gung-Ho Wife

Adoptive Mother

Marathoner

Fashionista

Redeemed

How wonderful. With complete confidence, this is what she hands all of her potential clients, business associates, and customers. I realized, "Here's a woman I appreciate. I am so glad she is in my life."

What would Emily Post think?

2007-08-10T08:24:00.001-07:00

I have a confession to make.

Some days, I just get really tired of matching. Yes, I am serious, we are really about to discuss clothes.

I think that is one of the things that I love about London. So many people didn't match and yet they looked incredibly cool. I'm such a believer in that. It normally happens after a week of a lot of dressing up for work and other events.

I get completely burned out by having to harness my "creative dressing" side of things that much and then I lash out at fashion.

Unmatching fashionistas, unite! Wear the paisley with the stripes and polka dots!!

Today, is one of those times. I want to be contrary in how I look. Not in how I act. Just in dress. On one of these days Jaimie, who is normally my partner in bold color, fashion, just looked at me and said, "Oh. It will be dark in the movie theater. People probably won't really notice." However, that was the exact same outfit I ended up wearing to the final game of the ACC Tournament and I love the pictures from that day. I think that you can strike serious gold by not following the rules.

As Jennifer Would Say, "What's the Point?"

2007-08-09T01:23:00.000-07:00

Tonight was my first time at the youth group's girls' discipleship group. .

I'm SO excited to start hanging out with the girls from church while Lydia Ruth starts another group at the LifeCenter. .

Among the many things I learned during my time at Starbucks with these awesome teens, what seems to be standing out the most at the minute, while the sunlight begins to permeate the sky, is that I should seriously consider switching to decaf. I just don't remain untouched by the caffeine anymore! .

So now, I drink a sugar-free vanilla, nonfat milk, decaffeinated latte. That's a lot of fluff in one coffee cup. I may have to switch back to straight up cappuccino just to save face with Jen!

Picture Ultimatum

2007-08-08T11:53:00.000-07:00

Ceeece, Lucinda, and I crashed the Durham lifegroup's movie night since they were going to see Bourne Ultimatum. SUCH a great movie. A bunch of people came out after our picture but here's the early crowd. I like this picture bc Betsy and I look like the before and after shot of a sneeze!
Here is proof that Betsy really does have a beautiful smile!
Meet Lauren. She is so fun! If you don't already know her, you should!

Hot, Hotter, Hottest

2007-08-07T05:30:00.001-07:00

I'd like to point out that Charleston, SC is the hottest place in the country in August. Oh, yes. And Durham is tied for second place (we just don't have the humidity).

Last night, it was a really good type of heat here. The type that completely embraces you without making you feel like you've been completely licked by a large monster (SarahS said it best).

I was on campus thinking, "This may actually be the perfect temperature" which is crazy because I normally love crisp.

Actually, it looks like it would have been a good week to be working in Charlotte. ;)

I haven't been posting the fun stuff...

2007-08-07T05:30:00.000-07:00

Took a weekend trip to Charleston a few weeks ago. We ate at one of the newest restaurants of my favorite culinary genius where my pastor from Seacoast just happened to be having lunch with his family. Nice surprise for a 48 hour trip.

As soon as I got into town, I changed clothes at the Charleston Place Hotel and met Danielle & Daniel for dinner at Chai's on King Street. I ended up paying the local street guy ten bucks to watch my car...weird story.

Kim was in the market with her awesome African jewelry and other gifts so it was cool to see what she has been working so hard on over the past couple months.

Amy makes fun of the face I make when looking in the mirror so she took a picture of the new sunglasses I scored from the booth beside Kim's. Of course, I'm laughing so it isn't the true look.

I met Kim, Ginny, & Amy at a new restaurant, Mercado, for some LATE night coffee. I can't keep my eyes open for most of the pictures we took that night. The good pictures of me made Amy look crazy so she deleted them! That is why you bring your own camera!

Amy, Danielle and I spent the next afternoon shopping on King Street (I so enjoy those 70% Off shoe sales).

Things I didn't do while I was there: Eat at the Mustard Seed. Go to the beach. Visit Towne Center. See the Battery...Wow, there were a lot of my favorite things I missed.

However, I'm going back in two weeks for work so I'll fit it in. I did walk past Sandra's aunt's store on King Street but it was late and already closed for the evening!

Do you know which house this picture came from? The true test...

Weekend Review

2007-08-06T06:10:00.000-07:00

1. Saw No Reservations with KRawls, Brooke, & Char

2. Cheesecake Factory...minus the cheesecake

3. Running the Tobacco Trail with Jeanne and running into Sarah, Eddie, & Charity (first time I've ever seen someone I know out there)

4. Lunch with a customer

5. Stalking Isabelle Fiore's latest creations

6. Drove to Southpoint Mall and immediately left once I saw how crazy the parking lot was on Tax Free Weekend

7. Dressed KimW...makeover moment

8. Went to Cindy's morning focus group...I'm hooked

9. Birthday lunch for Jeff & Eric

0. Dinner party at Charleigh's

Some Things I'd Like to Do in Durham This Summer

2007-08-03T05:07:00.000-07:00

Visit and Taste Loco Pops

Eat Outside by the River at the American Tobacco Campus for an NPR Backporch Music Series Concert

Go Wafting on the Eno with Wiva Dave

Visit the Scrap Exchange.

Go to the Farmer's Market

Picnic at Duke Gardens

American Tobacco 2007 Duck Race

Free Yoga in the Park on Saturdays sponsored by Scrap Exchange

INTERESTED? COME EXPLORE WITH ME!

Tennis, anyone?

2007-08-02T13:22:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite sounds have to be a tennis ball hitting the sweet spot on a racquet. Jaimie and I went out yesterday evening to play and it was fabulous.

Any closet tennis players out there?

We are looking for people to join our own league!

Family Moment

2007-08-01T06:12:00.000-07:00

MSNY (our church plant in Manhattan) meets at the Lamb's Theater in the Broadway district of NYC. It turns out that my fabulous Aunt Maxine, my fellow ENFP in the family, actually went to a church that met there when she first came to New York when she was my age.

I've learned a lot about life from her and some things about myself. When it comes to hospitality and family, she is definitely an inspiration. As the oldest child in the family, she has always been the keeper of the stories.

Possibly without realizing it, she has been one of the biggest factors in binding our extended family together and reminding us all that we have history together. When you are an Albrecht, that is everyone's mentality. I have always appreciated that I am close to my cousins because our parents were able to prioritized time spent with each other when we were young.

I have always loved that out of all the buildings in the city, there was that commonality. They are tearing the building down soon and Kevin Singleton recorded a CD, "Last Night at The Lamb's Theater". A good friend gave it to me as a birthday present

The Streets of Rome

2007-07-30T06:49:00.001-07:00

Since Rome was the first city we visited in Europe, we did A LOT of walking before we wised up to taxis and public transportation. These were some miscellaneous pictures of the city that I liked.
There were so many street cafes which was an interesting change. A lot of restaurants would just take two or three parallel parking spots and just build a deck with a canopy, add some tables and potted plants and you had instant outdoor seating with the cars whizzing by.
This guy was waiting for someone while I was sitting on the steps outside the Pantheon and this was actually his "resting" pose. I couldn't believe it because it just screams "photo shoot" to me. Of course, I took the picture.
John with the Fountain of Trevi in the background. At night, they turn these huge floodlights on the fountain and it is just as crowded as it is in daylight.
I was fascinated with this couple and took a bazillion pictures of them while sitting by the fountain. Mainly, because I like the colors of the water with the lights. This was day three of our trip and my feet were killing me. Sitting at Trevi and people watching was so fun and got us geared up for the next steps.

The Tiber River! Can you get more Roman?? Fact: Rome doesn't have a subway system because every time they started to dig they hit the ruins of another ancient civilization.
This was a fabulous store that I loved everything I saw. Completely my style and then I looked up and saw the sign! Unfortunately, it was closed so I never got to meet my clothing destiny...
We spent two hours doing a walking tour of the monuments and this is a shot during a 30 min conversation using our combined history knowledge (and movie trivia) to piece together the order of the Caesars' rule, who belonged to which dynasties, the lands they conquered and who slept with who. We did such a good job, it deserved a picture.

If I lived in Europe and couldn't afford a BMW SUV or Land Rover, I'd want a Smart Car. I'm obviously not one of their normal "green" customers.) You can actually park horizontally across a parallel parking spot and still fit in between the lines. My parking woes would be OVER! (I can't parallel park to save my life...honestly.) You can buy them in the US in 2008 but how would you like to be in one of these things on the same road with a bunch of semi-trucks and SUVs?

One of the MANY churches of Rome. We walked by it FIVE times on our first morning there when we got a little lost and confused. That is when we discovered that not all roads are on all maps in Italy.
The crowds at the Fountain of Trevi. It stayed like this all day long. It is one of the most famous tourists sights because if you throw a coin in the fountain the legend says you will return to Rome.
There were street musicians all over Europe. This little guy just captured my interest.

iSurprise

2007-07-27T05:49:00.000-07:00

I made a playlist on my iPod entitled "Running" months ago. However, I am normally more interested in chatting so I haven't listened to it. Yesterday, Nicole told me that if I can talk while I'm doing cardio than I'm not working hard enough. (I just thought that it meant I was a lot more in shape since I used to think I was going to die when I started back a couple years ago.)

With that in mind, I took my iPod to the gym and found the playlist which I had forgotten. I love fun surprises. This is what popped up:

Blessed Be Your Name Tree 63
Coach JBlaze (aka Jarret York to the TarHeels)
You Can't Hurry Love Diana Ross & The Supremes
Unconditional Kirk Franklin
I Am Free Newsboys
Open the Eyes of My Heart Michael W. Smith
You Never Let Go Matt Redman
Shackles (Praise You) Mary Mary
Made to Love TobyMac
Strong Tower Kutless

Coach makes me laugh out loud. Here are some of my favorite lines:

"But first, Hold up! Let me grab my pen. Do it old school style like we were ten. Forget the cellphone just give me your hand, let me open up your palm and write you in. I'm gonna blow in your hand so the ink dry right, looking you dead in the eye 'cause I'm focused right. If my number ain't smeared by the end of the night, that means you ain't sweating me and I will be alright."

All Quite on the Southeastern Front...

2007-07-23T19:25:00.000-07:00

Road tripped to Charleston last weekend. Completely wonderful visit. I stopped by Z.H.O.P. on the way down. I'm now thrilled that I work in Ft. Mill, SC so I can spend more time there.

Then, made it back in time to see the movie, Hairspray, and to attend the Eddie Money concert complete with fireworks in downtown Raleigh. I had to call Jason to figure out why this guy was famous. I'm just not an 80s Chic. Plus, "Take Me Home Tonight" has just never really meshed with my M.O.

On Sunday, I ended up at an impromptu lunch where everyone was an I.V. alum. What was really funny is that Justin & Amy's staff worker happened to be in town from Roanoke, VA and had lunch with us. Turns out, we were all at Rockbridge yet never met.

Bean Traders

2007-07-17T14:07:00.000-07:00

I love Bean Traders. They are completely awesome. I am so thankful that when they serve me my fabulous coffee I also get free wi-fi. (Completely handy until Time Warner can come hook up my wireless in my new place.) The husband and wife who own the stores roast the coffee beans for all the other locations here and it smells WONDERFUL.

How often does your local barista remember your name, much less your favorite drink? They do here. Of course, I have been a regular customer for over a year.

Also, it is definitely the "local neighborhood hangout". I'm a magnet for the little kids who come in with their parents. I've now discovered that the color red attracts hummingbirds, bulls, and TODDLERS. I've gotten to know one of my pastors because he comes into get hot tea here every morning. It is just a cool place.

(I got these pictures of my favorite location off of flickr.com and they totally capture the way it is)

Greetings from My Coat Closet

2007-07-12T21:54:00.000-07:00

It has been a bizarre day.

I don't think that I fully realized just how bizarre until I emerged from my coat closet after an hour long conversation on my cellphone. My new apartment still doesn't have a lot of furniture moved in yet so my voice echoes a lot and my mother was spending the night to help me move. I love to talk and I have my little shrieks of joy and surprise that up the noise level fairly quickly. I got tired of standing outside after midnight so I came back in and was trying to talk in hushed tones. Didn't work. The other person kept saying, "What?" "What did you say? I can't hear you."

So, the next thing I know I was totally Narnia-ing it by sitting on the floor tented by winter coats.

(Side Note: I am moving just down the hall into a larger apartment. Nothing too serious but it still requires packing.)

2007-07-11T21:26:00.001-07:00

Tonight is the first night in my new apartment. I love it!

The real moving day is Saturday when all the big furniture gets passed through the doorways.

The Roman Forum

2007-07-10T05:37:00.000-07:00

2007-07-09T08:20:00.000-07:00

Things I learned this weekend at a wedding in Kenansville:

1. My former classmates are not afraid of cosmetic surgery and I can actually say they look fabulous as a result. (I'm still not for it but now I know it does work!)

2. Never congratulate someone on their upcoming wedding unless you have seen the engagement ring or heard from THEIR mouth that it is a sure thing. This is not the time to rely on the grapevine news. (It is pretty embarassing when they yell, "I'm not getting married!"

3. In smalls towns, when people ask, "What are you doing now?" don't feel you need to give them a detailed answer. They already have heard from their best friend's mother who ran into your mom at the grocery two months ago. This is just polite conversation to keep things going smoothly.

4. Little boys and girls grow up into men and women. You won't recognize the kid you babysat for six years and other people won't know who you are. It isn't that big of a deal.

5. Definitely sit with the couple at the table by themselves when trying to pick the "lesser evil". They will be a lot more motivated to make conversation because they probably don't know anyone else and you could really like them. (I met two real gems!)

6. Pick up where you left off with people. It is easier that way instead of feeling akward because you haven't talked in ten years. Unless, of course, you left off badly with someone. That's when you just pretend you forgot everything because it was SOOOO long ago and chat them up anyway.

7. I would rather have someone be sugary sweet to my face and then talk about me once I leave than to have them be obviously rude and mean in my presence. It may be a Southern thing but it HAS to be so much more civilized. In the past, I have been critical of the "Smile even if you are doing it through gritted teeth" mentality but I have decided that if someone is really going to be that pointedly offensive in front of you, they will badmouth you, too. I'd prefer not to have to deal with other people's poison. Some people say that Southern way is lying but I beg to differ...That sugary sweet stuff doesn't really fool anyone. You know if you are hated or adored. Once again, it makes the social situations easier.

Home but not quite...

2007-07-04T03:36:00.000-07:00

Here's the whirlwind tour:

Three nights in Rome, two nights in Venice, three nights in Florence, two nights in Cinque Terre, two nights in Switzerland, two nights in Paris, four nights in London.

It is still crazy to me that Sandra and I missed each other by just a few days in London!! I also went to see the play Wicked since John and Alisha hadn't seen it yet. I think Jonesy was also in town. Crazy.

It was a fabulous trip. I was surprised by my reaction to the different cities. My favorite places (in order of greatest to least) were London, Paris, Rome, Switzerland, Cinque Terre, Florence and Venice. I was really thinking, "I need to learn French and move to Paris" but then once I got to London it was, "Forget Paris! I love London and already speak the language!" I'm totally in love with British culture. For those of you who don't know, my second major was English with a concentration in British literature. The BBC spellbinds me and I enjoy all the little differences in their vocab and accent.

I ADORE ROME. I just fell in love with the history merging with the present. You've got to love a city where it is impossible to have a subway because everytime they started digging ancient artifacts and new civilizations were found. Religon is so strong there. I don't know what I think about it all just yet but it leaves an impression on you.

My favorite attraction of the whole trip, hands down, was Vatican City. I was incredibly moved by those buildings. I'm not sure if because it really is holy ground or because the church of St. Peter is so grand that it really does make you look Heavenward.

Travel Girl

2007-06-21T07:18:00.000-07:00

hey! I am in Italia!

I could not figure out how to flip this picture around in the internet cafe.

I have been dreaming about throwing a coin in the Fountain of Trevi ever since I saw the movie Three Coins in a Fountain!

We have been in Rome, Venice, and now Florence.

My Friends

2007-06-14T06:21:00.000-07:00

I've realized something. I absolutely adore my friends.

Yesterday was high energy socializing due to Edwin Fest 2007 (Eddie's birthday) which took place at the Southpoint Mall Food Court. Pure genius when you realize that you can get over 30 people in and out, give them all the choices they could need for food, and then not have to spend an hour waiting for the checks to be settled out. I made the cake AND it must be pointed out that Eddie got his birthday dinner from Five Guys Burgers & Fries. Jim, your blog inspires us to greatness. You put them on the map!

After that, was the prophetic service at church which brought the crowds and I headed home to do laundry and pack for my trip but there was "the family" who went to Randy's Pizza and then the Wednesday night dinner party at Jeff's to miss. I had to laugh when I got the message from Cole where they passed the phone around to everyone at the house to say hello. Luckily, I'd already had an EARLY breakfast with Patricia that morning.

It is the little things that matter. Seeing Sandra (FINALLY), playing with Aidan, having Kim and Jaimie as my champions, Lance making an appearance, watching Matt butcher my cake, getting to set up more hip hop fun with Lu and Britt, catching up with the old Highgate crowd, Ceeece & Jason just being Ceeece & Jason, getting to be around the old college friends like Jess, Jonesy, Adina, John, Char & Nicole and all the other fabulous friends collected on along the way since. (Sarah, have fun in California!)

Then, I think about everyone I love who wasn't there and it makes me so thankful. I've really spent a lot more time praising the Lord in all things. Some days, that can seem really hard. Especially in the past week. However, once you get started it becomes humbling and amazing to start remembering that the blessings far outweigh the turmoil. And when I say it can be hard to praise, one day I just started with thanking the Lord for my apartment and the things inside of it. I was very upset, knew this was one of those "praise Him in all circumstances" but I needed to work with what I could see at that point and praise God for the obvious things that were right in front of me. You know those days, where nothing seems that glorious.

What was wonderful is that as my eyes traveled across all of those books on my bookshelf, I started remembering the people who gifted them (or swore that it was the best thing ever written and would change my life...some have). I thought about the conversations, the locations and the time of my life some of them were read. It is funny how we sometimes have such little energy to give to the Lord yet when we bring him what we have He multiplies it and gives it back to us as a way to minister to our hurting souls. I love books so there was a lifetime of love, memories, benchmarks, and people looking back at me from those shelves. The faith of a mustard seed was all it took for the Lord to send his comforting peace.

Selah.

2007-06-12T04:46:00.001-07:00

So many great people showed up on Friday night at Southern Village for the Symphony. Afterwards, we all split off into groups and the crowd I was with went to see Ocean's 13.

This was one of the most fun weekends I have had in a long time. I almost always enjoy life but the concert was just the beginning. Saturday night, I ended up at West End with an old friend and a lot of new ones after dinner at 411 West. It is always a little funny to be at a wine bar sipping sparkling water like a connoisseur. I was reminded why I loved Chapel Hill. We met so many people who were "friends of friends of friends" and from so many different disciplines and countries and we are all bonded by our love of Carolina. Absolutely fabulous.

I realized that I've missed the diversity which is funny considering the fact that I go to one of the few multi-cultural churches in the Triangle. However, Sunday was nice, too... worshiping with 54 different ethnicities and 23 different nationalities does add something amazing to your existence. It was great to see some old friends there, as well. The nice thing about still living in the place you went to school is that when people come back to visit you get to be a part.

Just another little snippet of information on me. Nothing too personal, nothing too deep. Definitely nothing too juicy. You just never know who comes across my little part of the web galaxy.

2007-06-09T10:38:00.000-07:00

One of Kayla's friends died tragically last Sunday. Fourteen years old is a hard age to loose a friend. Kate, K, & I were sitting on the couch watching a movie that afternoon when we heard the sirens. You never know how close to home some things can really be.

This story brought an end to the week. Now we know who her choice to become an organ donor helped save.

2007-06-08T03:20:00.000-07:00

Just one week left until I leave for Europe! I'm most excited about Cinque Terre, Italy. It looks beautiful, doesn't it?

I'm headed to Charlotte this morning to do six, back to back, twenty minute presentations to about three hundred people. It should be interesting! The three hour drive there will give me plenty of time to collect my thoughts.

2007-06-07T08:29:00.000-07:00

1. Jeff Friddle once again knocked dinner out of the park. To say that he is talented would not really describe the experience he creates. His cooking is fabulous but he also just goes above and beyond. I took Cole and even though Kim & I tried to prepare him for what was coming, his jaw dropped when Jeff told him the menu. The immediate benefits to showing up to prayer on Wednesday nights would definitely include dinner at Jeff's. Mike & Tom didn't know what they were turning down!

2. Today is my mom's birthday. I think I'm attempting to bake a Sarah Foster Cake. Patricia was given one of the cookbooks and apparently made a cake the she was told was the best her friends have ever had. I thought that sounded like a good option! I love it when friends give me good receipes.

3. Melanie and Jennifer taking photos in L.A. There is just something funny about friends you love trying to take a good picture while sitting in traffic. Melanie is coming to visit in October and hopefully Jennifer will be able to stop of in RDU for a few days, too.

Vocabulary ripped from Today's Headlines: Define "Popemobile"

2007-06-06T05:31:00.000-07:00

One of this morning's top headlines on Google was that the Pope was unharmed after someone lunged at the popemobile.

Okay, what exactly IS the popemobile? The word is pretty offensive. Sounds like he is puttering around in a golf cart. Trusty Wikipedia helped me work it out.

Apparently, after a few assassination attempts, a new type of car was created in the 80s. Each country that the Pope visits has to have one made and then they just normally display it in a museum and wait for his next visit back.

In Portugal, private donors gave millions of dollars to have one constructed. The glass is bulletproof, bombproof (is that possible), and allows that Pope to still be seen as he stands (or sits) and waves to the crowds.

Last words: "In 2002, John Paul appealed to the media to stop referring to the custom-made vehicle as the popemobile, because he believed the title was undignified."

I agree, completely. It sounds awful. However, it is still kind of funny, especially when you see how strange the vehicle looks.

Why we retreat to nature...

2007-06-05T11:58:00.000-07:00

I CANNOT FORGET WITH WHAT FERVID DEVOTION

I cannot forget with what fervid devotion
I worshipped the visions of verse and of fame;
Each gaze at the glories of earth, sky, and ocean,
To my kindled emotions, was wind over flame. -

And deep were my musings in life's early blossom,
Mid the twilight of mountain-groves wandering long;
How thrilled my young veins, and how throbbed my full bosom,
When o'er me descended the spirit of song! -

'Mong the deep-cloven fells that for ages had listened
To the rush of the pebble-paved river between,
Where the kingfisher screamed and gray precipice glistened,
All breathless with awe have I gazed on the scene; -

Till I felt the dark power o'er my reveries stealing,
From the gloom of the thicket that over me hung,
And the thoughts that awoke, in that rapture of feeling,
Were formed into verse as they rose to my tongue. -

Bright visions! I mixed with the world, and ye faded,
No longer your pure rural worshipper now;
In the haunts your continual presence pervaded,
Ye shrink from the signet of care on my brow. -

In the old mossy groves on the breast of the mountain,
In deep lonely glens where the waters complain,
By the shade of the rock, by the gush of the fountain,
I seek your loved footsteps, but seek them in vain. -

Oh, leave not, forlorn and forever forsaken,
Your pupil and victim, to life and its tears!
But sometimes return, and in mercy awaken
The glories ye showed to his earlier years.

I don't want to ever forget or loose my sense of awe or ability to be inspired by creation. To be able to have enough belief and hope and still be able to dream is still so important. William Cullen Bryant is one of those poets who "got it" but this poem also works as a warning to me. I don't want to be too beat down, too careworn, or too jaded by the world to let these emotions slip through my fingers.

AND if it is just something you experience in your youth, then I want to make sure that I'm out enjoying it now. SO, I'm going to work in the mountains next week!

2007-06-04T07:40:00.000-07:00

Had a great weekend. Charity planned a really fun outing to Raleigh's Art Walk.
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Kim and I got a lot of excercise on the trail at Lake Crabtree.

Girls' Night was a good time even though it rained and we couldn't have a picnic on the courtyard and listen to the band.
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Watched a movie at Kate, Kayla, & Lucy's house. Sadly, we heard sirens during the movie that marked a bad moment for the family but we didn't find out until this morning.
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Cooked dinner for Candice and Nicole now that they live in the neighborhood.
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John Michael came into town and will be staying with me for a few days.

2007-06-03T19:19:00.000-07:00

"Hey, chick, where's your car?"

Lost my car in a parking garage at 11pm in Downtown Raleigh.

Much love to Nicole, Jonesy, Justin, and Amy who walked through THREE different garages until we found the right one. Nicole gets extra points for walking 25 flights of stairs in slight heels, Jonesy for being the encouraging trail blazer and singing a fabulous song that ended in a call and response with the drunk people crossing the street, Justin & Amy for being so cool and finding the upside of the bonding experience, and, of course, extra points to me for effortlessly creating a bonding activity that went so well it lasted an entire hour. (Which meant I was mortified.)

Age old problem

2007-05-31T06:15:00.000-07:00

"He asked me if I sucked on lemons and I said, 'No', and then thought, 'What do you think I am, a sailor?' "

When someone told me this a few days ago I had to laugh myself in appreciation. Some days, it is a relief to know there are people out there who are literate. I love it when people pull out some of the slightly more obscure things in life and throw it on the table with the expectation that it is common knowledge.

I think scurvy was my favorite disease when I was growing up. There is something very cool about it. Also, being from Florida we have orange groves in my family so citrus has always been such a big deal and I like the dramatic.

A lazy day watching TV became an entertainment opportunity. "Mom, would you peel me an orange? WHAT?! You won't?! But what if I get scurvy?! (Fling myself on floor and start my interpretation of that with a lot of wailing for effect.) You wouldn't want that would you?? Your own flesh and blood?"

But then, today I got an email with the subject, "All About Gout". What? I thought that was something rich white men with the wine dribbling out of the corners of their mouth and down their chin died of in my British Literature books. Guess what, friends, gout is back.

Here was my favorite quote from the article:

"If you suspect you may have gout, schedule an appointment with your doctor today. You don't have to just live with the pain."

Two Kinds of People

2007-05-29T17:46:00.000-07:00

Dog or cat people. Cats are my favorite but I love dogs, too.
Coke or Pepsi people. Diet Coke. I really do prefer the taste.
Morning or night people. I just generally like to be awake. I'm not an afternoon person.
Coffee or tea people. Coffee, coffee, coffee.
PC or Mac people. Whatever my company buys for me...currently a PC.
David Letterman or Jay Leno watchers. I prefer Dave.
Jerry Seinfeld people or, well...everyone else. I didn't watch Seinfeld while it was on.
Bath or shower people. Both. Shower to wake up and bath to wind down.
Heels or "sensible" shoe people. TAAAARRR....HEEEEELS! TAAAARRR...HEEEELS! Wow, do I LOVE my heels. Bring on the stillettos.
Pie or cake people. Cake. Definitely cake. But it has to be "worth it". Few actually are.
Beach people or mountain people. Mountains feed my soul but my family has a house at the beach. One of my life goals is to live in a place where the mountains meet the ocean. Seems to be the best of both worlds.
Beer or wine people. I am no longer drinking so I guess it doesn't matter.
Sleep with the window open, or window-closed people. Closed at night, open for sleeping during the day.
Sail boat or power boat people. I have never been on a sail boat. My dad has always owned power boats and scoffed at the sails.
Toilet paper roll "over" or "under" installers. I always say over but my friend pointed out that I actually do under. I think I really just don't care.
Foreign- or American-made car people. If it is my money, I'd prefer a foreign.
Cooks or microwavers. I really like to cook but I do have my trusty Lean Cuisines for micro.
Sweet-tooth people or salt cravers. Reformed sweet tooth. Totally crave salt now.
In-a-glass or out-of-the-can people. bring on the cans and bottles.
Breakfast-eaters or breakfast-skippers. I eat my oatmeal bc I should but I'm a breakfast-skipper at heart.
Black ink or blue ink people. Black ink. Just can't take blue ink seriously.
Glasses or contact lens people. I LOVE my glasses. However, I only wear them to read if I feel like it. If it was a 24/7 thing I would probably love contacts.

Come to the Outdoor Symphony Concert Next Friday!

2007-05-29T09:46:00.001-07:00

I love the North Carolina Symphony's free concerts. We are going with aXcess next week to the one in Southern Village. That area is SO CUTE.

Let me know if you want to come! I'll probably get their around 7pm to hold seats with Kim. This is WAY better than $60 a ticket!

Life moves quickly

2007-05-28T13:20:00.001-07:00

Alisha is studying in Florence, Italy for the summer semester and she and a friend stopped in Germany to see some of our dear friends. I was hoping I would get to visit them but haven't quite yet so Alisha was the first to go. They were my youth pastors in high school, later our pastor and have just always been a family that I completely admired and adored. Alisha and I both babysat for the kids and I even taught Jillian dance.

Here is the gang visiting the castle at Burg Ultz. (L) Kaylee sitting in Kristell's lap, Jillian, Kelsie, Alisha, Christopher, and Tammy. Joe must be behind the camera.

When you look at this next photo, you'd never know that this may be some of the most fun you'll ever have.

Tammy was the one who told John and I how she used to lean over her twin brother while he was lying on the floors and slowly let a huge wad a spit start to drip down over his face. She would then suck it back into her mouth really quickly before it hit him. This seemed like a cool parlor trick so we practiced this. After a few tragic failed tries, John wised up to the fact I'd probably never master this skill.
This is my FAVORITE picture because it definitely captures all the personalities. This is the crowd that keeps tickle wars alive every year at Christmas dinner! Last year was the first time they weren't there and we really missed them.

Finally Home

2007-05-24T11:52:00.000-07:00

It seems like I've been gone for WEEKS I am so tired. And, I'm craving french toast. I don't know why but I really want it.

Trip to Chicago

Wicked: The music was SO GOOD. The costumes fabulous and the plot line...OH MY WORD, I HAD NO IDEA HOW GREAT IT WOULD BE. It is a MUST SEE. I would see it again...tonight. Joshua drove over from Indiana and he even really enjoyed it, laughing out loud through most of the scenes. Those of you that know Josh, know he'd be the first to tell me if he thought it was bad. His attitude going in was, "I'll sit through it. Sounds more interesting than the Oprah thing."

(By the way, for those of you keeping up...my sparkly gold stilettos DID NOT get the nod. I think my mom and Josh are the only two people in the world who remember the doctor told me to ditch the heels a few years back.)

Apparently, our tickets were for the NEXT FRIDAY so it was not fun for about 15 minutes while we were at the mercy of the box office to see if we'd get a seat. However, it worked out with us in the eighth row!

Work: The National Restaurant Association Restaurant and Hotel Show

This is definitely the largest food show in the world. People spend between a quarter of a million dollars on into the millions for their booth. We'd show up at 7am and not leave until 5pm. I carved A LOT of turkey for people.

If I tried to describe all the craziness that happened at the show in four days, my post would be way too long and you'd never believe it. Some companies go all out for this bringing in 7ft Blondes or other attention getters and hiring all sorts of amazing chefs.

A lot of money is spent on entertaining guests and customers. I went to great restaurants every night and we had our reservations months in advance.

I also got to see Ming Tsai, the creator of Blue Ginger, one of my favorite food lines at Target, while he did a book signing. He is one of those people who is just not photogenic. I was absolutely shocked by how gorgeous he is in person because his photographs portray him as an average joe.

I can't think of any other time that I have met someone and have found them so different from their photo.

Senator Fred Thompson, soon to be presidential candidate hopeful, was the keynote speaker which is cool until you realize that last year President Bush dropped by for the day.

He's joining the race because a lot of Republicans aren't happy with their candidates.

Trip to Charlotte

Locked my keys in my trunk at the convention center.

Found out in Chicago from another poultry company that there is a rumor going around that I'm dating one of my Charlotte customers. Have NO idea who they could all be talking about. It would have made more sense if they'd thought my boyfriend was a Raleigh customer.

Ate the best scallops I have ever had at McCormick & Schmidt's.

Got to experience NASCAR's race week in downtown Charlotte.

Got to do another foodshow. This one was a Fifties Theme so it was complete with an Elvis impersonator performing with girls in poodle skirts dancing around.