the marginalian

Worth

2012-01-16T14:45:00.000-08:00

Bits of spring

It's been a while. Life came to a head this weekend and I spent the majority of it resting after a few weeks of holidays and less-than-top-notch health. I could hide all this but it wouldn't seem right because this is where I am right now. A bit of a trough. Which is okay for now.

I am a grown woman who is figuring out how to best take care of herself. I was particularly inspired by meg's post on "loving myself enough" to do the right things like eating well and keeping my apartment clean. It is those basic things that are keeping my attention now because I am worth their value. We are all worth their value.

One thing I did for myself was to procure the above pot of daffodils - tiny heralds of my favorite season, which we are moving toward!!

I know it could be so much worse. It can always be worse. And it is worse for so many right now. Especially for the people of Haiti who are still suffering from that horrible earthquake two years ago. So I am going to offer up my trough to them. Because, despite everything, I am truly blessed.

Happy New Year!

2011-12-31T12:32:00.000-08:00

What a difference a year can make. For both the good and the bad. In 2011, I was lucky with good turns of events. I am grateful for every minute of this past year. I hope for more adventures in 2012 and also to have a life filled with love, for a life without love is not really a life at all. May you all have love in 2012! Happy New Year!

May You Have Peace and Joy

2011-12-23T16:30:00.000-08:00

My favorite holiday decor on a farm in rural Maine (a brilliant star on an early winter's night)

Wishing everyone a joyous and peaceful holiday with everyone they love! Merry Christmas! xoxo

Holiday Scenes and Blessings

2011-12-18T11:15:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Pinterest, I decided to make garlands of my favorite Christmas song lyrics

I mean, why not be merry?

L.L. Bean's Christmas Tree (one year they hung colorful Nalgiene bottles on the tree, I miss that)

In Georgetown, they put bows on their houses!

A refined Christmas in DC's Embassy Row

Christmas bundles all ready to be delivered!

Me decked out for a holiday party downtown!

It's been an incredibly hectic holiday season. But when I stop to reflect, it's all good things. I am very lucky. Lucky for the amazing friends and family in my life. Lucky for my job, my little apartment, and the possibilities that next year will hopefully bring. I am blessed in so many ways. Life is good.

My Namesake

2011-12-10T10:42:00.001-08:00

Today is Emily Dickinson's birthday. My namesake. There's a pair of us, you know, as we are both children of December and kindred spirits to boot. She was a homebody that was full of a fiery, crazy passion pent up and only unleashed on the page. Not unlike myself. Well, with the exception that I have yet to write/publish poetry that will be published posthumously and become world renown. There is, however, still time.

Image found here.

The Simple Sameness

2011-12-03T08:50:00.001-08:00

Home to Maine last week was a welcome respite from the quick, unrelenting pace of Washington life. My job had crescendoed in many unexpected ways and I desperately needed a softer tempo to ease the tension. I needed some of that simple sameness that going home always affords. I awoke Wednesday morning to a heaving snowfall, a perfect change from the still humid climes of Virginia.

We have a quiet, lovely thanksgiving with all the same traditions - the parade, hor d'oeuvres at noon, dinner at four, a walk with the lanthorn (old-fashioned word for lantern) after dinner, and enjoying pie and Miracle on 34th Street (the newer version).

It felt so very good to be home with the people (and the animals!) that know me best.

Woke up to a foot and half of snow on my first morning home

Mae by a crackling fire

The table set for our Thanksgiving feast

Isabelle warming herself by the stove as the turkey cooks

An early birthday gift - an original oil painting by Maine artist, Vivian Wixom

A Horseback Riding Adventure!

2011-11-13T10:44:00.001-08:00

My copper-colored steed Leon was a worthy mount (even if he occasionally tripped over rocks on the trail)

For some time now, I have longed to go horseback riding. Not just a trot around a track. I mean, real riding, on the trail, in the woods, through the mountains, over hill and dale...you get the picture.

That dream was realized this weekend when my friend Christina and I hit the road and drove to the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Hume, Virginia, and went on a 1.5-hour trail ride at the Marriott Ranch.

It was a glorious autumn day. The trees were in full color -- deep reds, fiery oranges, and rustic yellows -- against that bright blue sky that only a day in late fall can afford. The weather was perfect in the low 60s. Weather like that just feels like a gift.

The ride was just what I needed. The slow, soothing rhythm of the horse as he so graciously carried me on the trails - across streams, up and down hills, and through meadows. Manna to a soul overwrought by the cruel concrete and steel of city life. Being in the city has worn on me lately. All the noise, air pollution, and the angry, rude people. I needed some simplicity and some quiet. I am a country girl by birth and will remain so at heart always.

My and Leon's shadow on the trail

Christina flashes a smile on the trail!

Heading toward an open field with the Blue Ridge Mountains in the distance

Heading back to the ranch

The end!

Stars

2011-11-09T18:36:00.000-08:00

Random picture I took of the NYC skyline THREE years ago (I thought it went with the "star" theme of this post

Listening to NPR's 24-7 Music Live Stream has literally been the only thing standing between me and a mental breakdown this week. That and lattes from Starbucks, which is the only decent coffee place near my office. FOR REALS, so don't think that I've sold out or anything (although I just received my Starbucks Gold Card in the mail so MAYBE I HAVE).

But seriously, this music stream has exposed me to all kinds of new tunes, which I totally dig. This week's discoveries include The Innocence Mission, the Black Keys, and Stars.

Prepare yourself for a cliche: their music speaks to me. This music has been manna to a blank, confused soul.

For my whole life, you ask me: books or music? I say books. But lately, I feel like my answer would undoubtedly be music. It's just where its at right now.

Here's three songs that are the real deal for me this week:

A Modern Hankerchief

2011-11-06T18:45:00.000-08:00

I love when certain events transpire as they might have, say during the Victorian era, but this time with a modern twist.

It was any ordinary Friday night. After a LONG work week, I was ready for relaxing evening in - a little takeout, a good film, and a good night's rest. Before this fun, however, I decided a quick trip to my apartment's gym was in order to purge myself of all the negative energy from the week. Nothing releases bad karma like the pounding of one's feet on a treadmill.

So there I was, running in an almost empty gym (one older man on a stationary bike in the corner), watching a rerun of The Daily Show, and keeping up my pace, when I noticed in the window's reflection in front of me a particularly dashing young man entering through one of the rear doors of the gym. I had seen him a few times before around the apartment complex. Tall, sturdy, with longish, dark blond hair. Definitely cute.

I continued my run but every so often, I would slyly look up to see him lifting at the various weight stations that were behind the treadmills. He would break and pace the room, as people who lift weights tend to do (probably to give their muscles a rest?).

I soon became more focused on a particularly humorous The Colbert Report. I had begun to break a sweat so I went to grab my small towel to swab my brow. Grace and coordination not being part of my personal repertoire, the towel slipped and fell on the treadmill floor, which jettisoned the towel onto the floor behind me and just as the young man was walking by.

Bewildered at my clumsy act, I continued to run as if it hadn't happened. I stared straight ahead at the television, when suddenly I felt a tap on my shoulder. It was the guy holding my gym towel and smiling at me. "I think you dropped this, " he said, handing it to me. Apparently, the gym towel is the modern handkerchief.

"Thank you," I replied, breathily with a smile.

As I walked back to my apartment after my workout, I couldn't help but smirk at the fact that I dropped my proverbial "handkerchief," which had been been picked up by a young man, just as it had been done hundreds of years ago. Neither Henry James or E.M. Forster could have conjured a more modern equivalent of chivalry.

Image found here.

A Hallow's Evening

2011-10-31T17:05:00.000-07:00

A cute Halloween bucket I found at Target (LOVE the Boo font) and a UNICEF Halloween card from my Mum!

My Halloween is a handing out candy to a handful of kids in my building, eating a fall meal of pork and brussel sprouts, watching Harry Potter, and thinking about plans for the coming months.

Life is such a funny, funny game...

Judy's Moxie

2011-10-30T18:28:00.000-07:00

I watched In The Good Old Summertime this evening. A classic Judy Garland film, if you haven't seen it. If you like Meet Me In St. Louis, you will adore this film. It was the perfect and cozy choice for a blustery fall evening.

I love Judy's performance of "I Don't Care" in the film (video above). I am adding this to my Girl Power Mix, which includes "I Have Confidence" from The Sound of Music and "Don't Rain on My Parade" from Funny Girl (the Barbra version only).

I need some moxie this week and am taking my inspiration from only the best and the brightest!

Lovely Things

2011-10-20T18:20:00.000-07:00

So many lovely bloggers feature posts on items that make their weeks. I am not one to really notice items that make my days better, but this week, there are few things that have made things particularly lovely.

Homemade Mexican Chicken Noodle Soup - Warmed my spirit and helped stave off a developing cold

Newly purchased grey sweatpants from Madewell - so soft and cozy

A vintage postcard included in the loveliest note from my dear friend, Amanda

A wee pumpkin decorated my window sill - a tiny herald of the autumn season

This week was a tough one. But I made it to the other side. Thanks to the unceasing support of my wonderful parents, especially my mom, who let me vent profusely to her on the phone. And also, lots of good movies, music, and books - mediums to distract myself from overprocessing everything. Which I do.way.to.much.

Putting It Together

2011-10-12T20:09:00.000-07:00

I think about where I want to end up. I know, I know. It's about the journey. But I think about how to put together
all
the
right
steps
to end up in the place I want to be.

Right now, it's still a rural setting. I really do not care for the city - so many people, noise, pollution, overpriced living. People don't seem to care of each other anymore. It's feels like too much. Maybe, I just need a break. But deep down, I know I will always be a country girl.

Me, an old house, a kayak, and hopefully, a family who wants to live in the country too! I feel like I've written about this before but I am constantly going over in my head how it's all going to end up.

Of course, now I have to conjure a career that will enable me to move to the country.

I think the country means moving home to Maine at some point. But other days, my soul longs for the English countryside.

I lived in England for a year and it's my happy place (that and Prince Edward Island). It's been so long since I have been back (fingers crossed for next year). I read Artemis' gorgeous blog to live, vicariously, a rustic, charming British life.

So, as usual, no conclusions. Only ideas. If I had a nickel for every life idea of mine, I could finally afford a kayak and a car to transport said kayak.

Do you think about where you want to end up and how to put it all together to reach that point?

Image credits: Emily Bowen

Pan Am

2011-10-10T17:20:00.000-07:00

A recently acquired guilty pleasure of mine is the new show, Pan Am. I will admit to being a bit skeptical at first but have since been charmed by the gorgeous period clothes, the interesting characters and plot lines, and the show's piquant tempo reminiscent of a 1960s film (appropriate as the show is set in that time period). The characters have a light, fresh chemistry with each other as well as intriguing qualities to be discovered over the course of the season. A classic soundtrack (can you say Frank and Dean?) and cute pilots don't hurt either ;)

Images found here.

Today

2011-10-08T08:31:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I have these moments where I stop and hold my breath, not able to go another moment without knowing what I want to do with my life. To have some certain direction that I can own and feel my passion emanate from the choice.

As frustrating as these feelings are, they are such an incredible luxury.

How luxurious to have taken my time in choosing my path, always knowing that even though it felt too late, it never was.

Not even one hundred years ago, a woman in my position in this country could not vote. A woman in my class would most likely work as a teacher or a maid or some sort of house worker until she married and had a familly. Today, a woman my age in Ethiopia or Afghanistan most likely has little or no education, four or five children to support, an absent or present, but oppressive husband.

And here I am, at the ripe side of 26, single, independent and the greatest concern I have is what I am going to do with my life.

I am annoyed just reading this. I hope you are too.

Because I am through.

But there is nothing drastic I can do right now. It would ruin so much that I have built and I want to be smarter than that. I have to plan and be a little bit patient to get it right.

In the interim, however, I can act. I can take that $25 I was going to spend on new shoes and invest it here. In a group of women, who know their talents and see a way to supporting themselves and their families. And that right there is doing something with my life today.

Peace

2011-09-28T19:25:00.000-07:00

The past few weeks have been an absolute maelstrom, and I have been longing to return to this space to unravel the knots in my mind. But I haven't the energy to deliver this space nor the few beloved readers of mine justice. So I beg your indulgence until I have my wits about me.

In the meantime, I craving peace and a natural setting. I have seen too much concrete and selfish humans this week. Wishing you all peace!

Photo credit: Emily Bowen

Corn, Je t'adore!

2011-09-14T19:51:00.000-07:00

Bowl o' Cornbread Salad

So I realize that we are heading into the autumn season and I should be thinking about pumpkins, squash, and apples. However, I have fallen head over heels for corn over the past few weeks. It's like I have suddenly woken up and discovered this delicious summer vegetable at the very end of summer. And not just the vegetable, mind you. No, I am excited for cornbread and corn muffins too! I recently made a delicious Cornbread Salad - a variation on several recipes. And tonight I created a variation on a recipe I found, Pancetta Polenta with a Tomato Balsamic Compote. It. Was. Delish. (not to toot my own horn or anything)

While I love cookbooks, food blogs, etc, I don't like recipes. The same way I never enjoyed coloring in the lines. I love to experiment, to mix and match ingredients. And also, because I am usually cooking for myself, I like one-pan recipes - simple and easy to clean up.

So if you are corn lovers, here are the aforementioned "recipes":

Cornbread Salad (for 1 w/ leftovers or 2 people)

2 large pieces of cornbread or corn muffins, torn and crumbled
1 can of black beans, drained
1/2 cucumber, diced
1 pepper, any color, diced
1 green onion, chopped
1 cup of cheddar cheese, shredded
A smidge of ranch dressing

Mix and ENJOY!

Pancetta Polenta w/ Tomato Basil Compote (for 1 w/ leftovers or 2 people)
I was inspired by this recipe from The Yellow House (awesome DC food blog)

2 tablespoons of butter
1 shallot, minced
1 clove of garlic, minced
1 package of pancetta, diced
2 cans of white corn (or corn sliced off the cob)
1 large tomato, diced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon balsamic vinaigrette (or however much you would like)

Heat medium-size pan and add butter until melted
Add minced shallot and garlic and sautee for a minute or two
Add pancetta and let cook until slightly brown
Add corn and stir mixture until corn starts to get mushy, almost like a lumpy pudding but still delicious
Season with salt and pepper (not too much salt due to the pancetta)
Toss the diced tomatoes with the balsamic vinaigrette and salt and pepper

Dish up the polenta and sprinkle the compote on top or just mix it all together - whatever you want!!

Finding My Altruism

2011-09-12T20:59:00.000-07:00

Pretty posies at the U.S. Botanical Gardens

David Brooks' column from a few weeks ago discusses (developed, often Western world) service in the developing world. Nothing he says is something I haven't heard before. But he describes his view of "useful" foreign aid succinctly and accurately and with poignant, relevant examples of young people serving humbly without any expectations. I don't always agree with Brooks but every so often, he puts into words exactly what I feel about things. His view seems very grounded in reality.

I think about service every day. The premise of my alma mater, Boston College, was "men and women for others." I shaped much of my undergraduate experience around this premise. I focused my coursework towards international studies, wanting to inform my worldview. My years since have been peppered with volunteering - mentoring, tutoring, Habitat for Humanity. I don't feel like I am truly living unless I am serving others in some context outside of the realm of my for-profit professional activities (in other words, my job).

Several of my friends have accomplished full-time service experiences - Peace Corps, Americorps, and other non-governmental programs. I think about doing the same every day. I have come so close to so many different service experiences over the years. And the fact that I haven't really does weigh on me. I have a completed Peace Corps application just sitting there, waiting (I finished it the day I got the call regarding my current job in Washington). An offer to teach with the New York Teaching Fellows came last year after I want through the entire interview process (it was the exact opposite of the placement I wanted, so I refused on the basis that it would not be fair to the students or me to take this assignment).

In really thinking about why I haven't actually taken the plunge to do the service abroad or just a full-on service experience, I realize that perhaps I am not completely built for the experiences I have encountered thus far. I don't think I have the chops to be totally isolated in a foreign land for an extended period of time, to be parted from my family, friends, and culture for over 2 years. I really don't. But oh, how I wish I did.

I think perhaps I am better serving here in the U.S., where there is a great need. I think we often forget this fact, being so focused (and rightly so) on the developing world across the oceans. There's a lot of need here - our country is kind of in trouble in terms of slipping standards of living and education statistics. I have had rich service experiences here. Lately I have been thinking about being a teacher (following in the footsteps of my incomparable, ever-talented mother). Because I cannot sit at desk and computer for 8 hours a day for the rest of my life. I just cannot. I need people. I need connection. The best experience was working as a literacy aide in the Boston Public Schools during college. I need to feel like I am working toward something positive. I just have not felt that in any of my jobs thus far. I know this possible career choice means less glamour and a smaller paycheck, but that's not a bad thing. For I think, in the end, I value the preservation of my spirit over the thickness of my pocketbook.

The Man in the Red Bandana

2011-09-06T16:54:00.000-07:00

Ten years ago. When we saw unspeakable acts of violence and pure evil in the most unlikely place. And the world stopped and wondered how it could continue. But you see on that day we also saw acts of incredible bravery and the pure, unselfish beauty of what it means to be human. Welles Crowther embodied that beauty through the lives he saved. He makes me proud to be a Boston College Eagle. Men and women for others. Forever that is for which we stand.

Video found here.

Bangles

2011-09-05T17:20:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, a parcel arrived in the mail from my lovely mother. Inside I found some articles of clothing left during my Maine visit and also a smaller package containing 18 colorful plastic bangles. A little note from my mom told me that the bangles were made from old flip flops by a community of African women.

I love these bangles - how their number decorates my wrist and lower arm with bright colors and a lightweight feel. I love that they are made from recycled flip flops and hopefully helping women support themselves. I feel powerful wearing these bangles somehow - perhaps because of the fashion statement but perhaps even more because I think of the clever and talented women who made them.

Waking Us Up

2011-08-29T18:13:00.000-07:00

Viola Davis deftly portrays the role of Aibileen

Some things snap you awake. They make you feel uneasy. Make you wonder if they are right. If they are good. But in the end, you appreciate them for that glimmer of truth they provide. And just by the fact of being there, of telling a story, they make people aware. They shake us awake to realities that have lain dormant in our minds. They remind them of a history that we sometimes forget. I feel this way about The Help. The book by Kathryn Stockett and the film, which I finally saw last night.

I devoured the book in less than a week. Reading at lunch and in the evenings. The characters became like old friends and I was sad to leave them at the end. I identified most with Skeeter of course - unruly hair, writer aspirations, not following the expectations of her society, sort of a tall, awkward girl who's not afraid to be a bull in the china closet. But my favorite character was Aibileen (Viola Davis nailed this role in the film - flawless - and Cicely Tyson as Constantine was so haunting and lovely that her scenes brought me to tears). Her quiet strength. Her acceptance of everybody. I would consider my feminine power fully developed if I could have her grace.

This book was written by a white woman. White women telling black women's stories. In the book, it was the only opportunity at that time to get the voice of the black maid heard - someone white had to connect with the all-white publishing industry. In the case of Stockett writing this book, well, she grew up with a black maid and knew it from that perspective. This book and film have generated a lot of discussion about this rarely touched upon aspect of history and that is a good thing. For us to remember and feel uncomfortable about the fact that a group of people were so horrible to another group of people. Any maybe that's what racism is: not white versus black, but a group of people who choose to demean and debase another "group" of people for ludicrous reasons. The truth is so easily distorted, and people take this fact and bend it to their will to gain power over others.

I have heard people say that we live in a post-racial society. I only wish. But sometimes I can't help but wonder if that we ever be possible. There's just too much pain, too much history. Here in DC, there is a great deal of poverty and most of the people I see living on the streets, that I see in the homeless shelter where I volunteer, are black. Most of the people on the cleaning staff at my work are black. Are these people here by choice? Or are they here as a residual effect of historical prejudice? Is this the fallout that has been perpetuating for generations? When will the cycle stop?

We've made such strides. First and foremost, electing a black president (and then demanding he present his birth certificate - an unprecedented act). DC will dedicate the long overdue Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr, memorial in the coming weeks.

I am not even sure if I can justly comment on the topic of racism as a white woman. It makes me feel uncomfortable. But I think that is just about right. I should be uncomfortable because this is not a resolved issue by any means. But this book and film are getting us talking and making us aware, which is the first of many steps.

Image can be found here.

Hurricane

2011-08-27T13:54:00.000-07:00

Irene essentials: flashlight, new books, shiraz

The rain and wind is currently pounding the windows of my apartment. I kind of feel as though I am adrift on a ship in the middle of the ocean (or in this case, my apartment). I am all stocked with goodies: eatables, wine, books, movies, and a bathtub full of water in the event of a power outage.

It's been quite a dramatic week - earthquake, hurricane, and tornado warnings - so I am looking forward to some quieter times to reflect and be grateful for my safety. I wish all those in the path of this gigantic storm (400+ miles wide!) safety and the company of loved ones!!

What's the Big Idea?

2011-08-22T19:00:00.000-07:00

Isabelle wants to know where all the big ideas went!?

I read something very disturbing in the New York Times' Sunday Review from two weeks ago. Their feature story, "The Elusive Big Idea," relayed the fact that we are no longer a society of big ideas. In fact, we shy away from them because they are no longer the point. THE POINT apparently is to get ALL the information and not even necessarily process it. The point of the Internet is that we have access to everything. The article continues to say that at no point in history has the human race been so informed. But the capacity to process and retain this information only goes so far. Indeed.

While I was so saddened to read this article, I kind of agree with Mr. Gabler, the author. Think about your Google reader, for example. Every website and blog that you enjoy can be on this device and all the information published on these sites are brought to you daily, after which you scroll through until you have: "your reading list has no unread items." Quel nightmare. When I get to that point (which is often early in the day on slow days), my heart kind of falls. I have just whizzed through to get all the info and now I've reached the end?! Catastrophe!

But seriously, I often catch myself scrolling through so fast. I mean, it's not a race. Everything is so fast today. We expect fast results. If our computer is a couple seconds slow, we start to get antsy. God forbid, I have to wait in line or at a pedestrian crosswalk (jaywalking is for winners!). I digress.

This is all to illustrate my mentality and to a greater extent our society of getting more fast. More fast. That's it. We don't take the time to think anymore!

It's so sad. I used to have big philosophic thoughts in the earlier parts of my youth, but lately I find myself thinking less like that (which is why that article resonated so with me).

I will say that the Times article labels this phenomenon about the paucity of big ideas but doesn't comment on the effects of it. I think this type of thinking - more fast - is going to drive our society off a cliff if we're not careful. We still need big idea people in our government, in our society. It's the big idea people that help parse out sticky situations like the debt ceiling crisis and the impending global food and water crises. We need these big ideas to help solve problems and most importantly, inspire us. Big ideas are poetry to human mind. They comfort and lift us up to make sense of our existence.

On Being A Modern Woman

2011-08-16T20:07:00.000-07:00

Awkward iPhone photo to symbolize my attempt to be a modern woman...

Lately, I have been feeling like I am going through a change. Not THE CHANGE. (Although sometimes when my time of the month rolls around, I wish THE CHANGE would just happen already. TMI? Oh well :) By "change," I mean a change in identity, in personal goals, in the type of woman/person I want to be in this world.

For years, I have strived to be a "power" woman. Think black suit, trendy bag, perfectly coiffed hair, and a big time job. That's where I always saw myself ending up.

It started in high school where I changed into a total nerd and threw myself into my studies, achieving top marks and accolades. I knew that if I applied myself, I could be a successful, modern woman, the fruit of my foremothers' labor over the past century. I clung to this goal as the rationale behind all of my efforts in school.

My academic pattern continued into college, especially freshman year, where I kept my socializing to a minimum and focused on achieving straight A's, which I maintained until the final semester of college (darn you, War and Peace Studies). The ironic thing was that that last semester in college was probably the best semester of my life wherein I had the most fun and enjoyed life a little bit more.

Coming out of college, however, I was emotionally and mentally exhausted. I could not even think about going back to school. So I took a steady job in market research and enjoyed life for a few years. Then I decided that law school was my next step. I have a "soapbox" side to me, an argumentative side. I am passionate about various causes such a child advocacy and immigration, and I believed that meant I would be a good lawyer. And of course, my mom said, "I've always thought you would make a good lawyer." Anything to make my mom proud. SO, I bought an LSAT book, studied as much as I could with a full-time job, took the LSATs, didn't do amazingly well, and then asked myself if I really wanted to follow this path. The answer was no. While I do have a high-powered aspect to my personality and admire many aspects of the law, I do not LOVE the idea of being a lawyer or the three ensuing years of law school.

So I switched gears to journalism. This was in 2009, when the economy was not so great and the media market was in turmoil, particularly print media. But I found a job working as an editorial assistant for an education policy magazine. In short, it was hell on earth. Six months later, I quit. I thought I might like to work for NPR, so I tried to network there and began recording podcasts (otherwise known as The Weekly Marginalian). I never heard back from any of the NPR positions I applied for - which was perhaps due to the paucity of my radio experience. I eventually became a freelance web editor for a foreign affairs journalist, but I was never able to get my own writing off the ground. Then, I realized that I didn't want to report on the action. I wanted to be at the center of it. Around that time, I got a job in Washington DC, the center of the action (although lately I feel like I want to disassociate myself from the Washington action).

Now, six months in, I find myself wondering if working here is right for me in terms of the person I want to be. Here is a world of empirical black and white thinking, self-promotion, cutthroat competition, insurmountable bureaucracy. I thought I would love the power of the scene. The woman here are hard, tough, and relentless (and they bury themselves in manly suits - seriously, I like a little frill and a little eclectic patten once in a while). And the thing of it is, I feel like one would have to be such a woman to work here. This place is strong. It can change you.

In thinking about my long-term goals, however, I have lately found myself with a penchant for a quieter, less high-strung lifestyle. I miss the country - being closer to a natural setting. I keep going back to that simple dream: husband, a kid or two (at least one adopted), dog, cat, old country house, huge vegetable garden, kayaks, and the ocean not too far away.

As for my career itself, I want to see more results and impact of my work. I find myself again sitting at a desk, often with excess time on my hands, not really engaging with people. I want to connect with people more and have a more action-oriented position, but not necessarily high powered. I don't want to look back at my life and see that I have spent most of it sitting at a desk, reviewing other people's work and having no real impact.

Many of my female friends are on very high-powered, successful tracks. For years, I felt immense pressure to keep up. But then I realized, why? Do I want to even keep up? Am I doing this just for the sake of petty competition?

It hit me lately how all this pressure I have put on myself doesn't necessarily have to be there. It's my life. And life is short. I should live it how I want. Nothing else and no one else matters. That should be the bottom line.

This realization was huge. Gone was the desire to be high-powered. Gone was the idea that I had to have this perfect career path at only the best places of employment. Thinking about all that makes me tired and to be honest, bored. What my life needs is a little spice, a little creativity.

I am a free spirit who has been trying to fit herself inside a tiny, sterile box for too long.

Now, this doesn't mean I am moving out of Washington. It just means that being here is teaching me more about who I am and where I would like the road to take me.

So in sum, I see a modern woman as a lady who makes the choices that are best for her, despite what family, friends, society, and feminist theory may dictate as the "right" path. It's our privilege and there are still many women in the world who still need that privilege, so it is not something to be taken for granted.

On Food

2011-08-14T15:17:00.000-07:00

Cucumbers, Feta, Pita Bread. Simple. Delicious.

I've been thinking a lot about food lately. Not because I am hungry (but I definitely am most of the time), but more because I have been wondering about the origins of my food. I often take for granted that the food I eat will be processed in a factory and/or farm that is up to health code and the result of fair trade. Last night, however, as I was cutting up a newly purchased red bell pepper, I discovered the pepper's interior was covered in mold. This a pepper, labeled "organic" and purchased at my local grocery store, had the appearance of freshness when I purchased it. But in finding this mold, I began to wonder about the journey of food between its origin (factory or farm) and my refrigerator. Take for example that e.coli outbreak at an Oregon farm, or the ground turkey meat as the cause of a national Salmonella outbreak.

I have been working towards thinning out my food purchasing to contain only whole foods - vegetables, meats, grains, nuts - a quasi Paleo diet, if you will. Just the naturals. Of course, somehow the occasional bin of chocolate chip cookies finds its way into my basket, but overall, I am trying to have a more balanced diet.

To me, food purchasing is really an issue of control. And the truth is, you have little control over where you food comes from if you buy it in the grocery store. Much of your purchases are made on faith, a wing and prayer. How much can we control what happens to our food short of growing it ourselves? To be honest, that is my dream: to own a farmhouse and have a thriving vegetable garden to live off of during the spring, summer, and fall and then harvest and can the remainder the bounty for winter stores.

In the meantime, I am going to try harder to avoid grocery chains for produce, instead shopping at local farmers' markets. Of course, I probably will continue to buy certain things from the chains but I want to be more conscious about my food choices. I am also curious to read foodie books by Michael Pollan and Mark Bittman (aka The New York Times' The Minimalist), to develop sounder opinions about whole food eating. Are you guys thinking similar thoughts about food? Any recommended reading?

Harry

2011-07-27T19:43:00.000-07:00

As a freshman in high school, I was having a difficult time in my Physics class. And then, to top it off, the only extra credit questions on our tests were based on a new book series about witches and wizards and a school with a disgusting-sounding name - Hogwarts?! I resented my teacher putting these questions on the test because it was unfair advantage. So I protested for the first two tests. But I needed those extra credit points. So one Saturday, I went to Bookland (a now closed independent bookstore in Brunswick, Maine) and picked up Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. I'll never forget the feeling of reading that first chapter. It grabbed me. Hook, line, and sinker. It was like when Harry was sucked into Tom Riddle's diary. Only this kind of literary gravity was good.

High school was not an easy time for me (as I am sure it was not for many) and the Harry Potter series became a place of escape. A safe, accepting haven. The characters felt like friends, family even. And I, as I am sure many girls did, identified with Hermione Granger, from the bushy brown hair to her affinity for books and scholastic excellence. For every book launch (except the last one), I dressed up as Hermione for the release party at a local independent bookstore where I worked during high school and college. For The Order of the Phoenix, we even created a sorting hat and made House badges for kids (and adults) to be sorted into Houses. For The Half Blood Prince, my coworker, Jim, the spitting image of Ollivander, dressed up like the wandmaker and whittled wands for all the bookstore staff. Mine was cherry and filled with sand from Egypt. I still have it to this day.

The first film came out during my junior year in high school. I remember the thrill of hearing those first notes of John Williams' classic soundtrack (hands down the superior composer of the series). I had friends who refused, still refuse, to see the movies because they wanted to preserve their original image of the characters. I was worried about that myself, but have long learned to separate them. I thought the films were impeccably made and the three of them - Dan, Emma, and Rupert - I've loved watching them grow up.

I saw the fourth film in England. The coolest. I brushed by Rupert Grint at customs in Heathrow. I visited many of the locations across England (including Oxford University) used for the films.

I kept every ticket stub from every film.

I planned my latest Maine trip around the fact that I wanted to see the final film with my family. It's tradition. Seeing this last film (yes, I saw it twice last week), I found myself choked with the sentiment of how much this story - books and films - has meant to my life. And as for the final scene, with the return of John Williams' music, forget it. I was a goner. Tears, choked up, wrought with the shear power of this world and the indelible mark it has had on my experience.

So as others have lately written, thank you, Ms. Rowling, for delivering such magic and the belief in ourselves to express the worlds we create every day in our minds. And for allowing us to believe that these worlds are indeed real and valuable and might be enjoyed by millions if we only take that first step of putting pen to paper.

Maine

2011-07-26T18:52:00.000-07:00

The view from Five Islands Lobster Co

A scrumptious shrimp salad with fresh greens, blueberries, strawberries, oranges, and poppy seed dressing

Harpswell Harbor at Sunset - Summer Perfection

My parents' beautiful garden. Their green thumbs never cease to amaze me.

Me picking flowers in the garden. I cannot recall a time where I was more relaxed. I love Maine in the summer.

Mae. No explanation needed.

Isabelle. One tired, hot kitty.

My family's secret beach (there's never anyone there!).

Parents picking sea lavender (only looks like lavender - no smell)

I love Maine!

I'm back from a week in Maine. Well, first, an Indian wedding in Boston with all my lovely college friends and then home for a week with my dear family. Goodness but I am a blessed girl. The week was full of sunshine, sweet parents, adorable animals, soul-inspiring food, and moments of pure simplicity and authentic living. I was so relaxed and in love with the Maine summer (much easier to idealize when one lives in sweltering Northern Virginia). The experience sealed the fate that I will one day return to live in the country, and, most likely, that country will be in Maine. It's tattooed on me somewhere that I must return. I constantly feel that dream of owning a little house in the woods and spending my weekends adventuring to seaside 'scapes or mountain abodes (with my kayak and bike strapped to my car). Someday!

A House I Once Knew

2011-07-06T17:51:00.000-07:00

The Round Pond House in Summer 2010

The house above is no longer standing, and my heart is breaking a little bit. You see, this was the first house we lived in when we moved to Maine almost 20 years ago.

A few weeks ago I stole away to Maine for the weekend. I hadn't been home for almost five months and it felt like too long. I missed my parents, the animals, and that cool, clean air that only Maine can afford. Seriously, the air is so different up there as compared to DC. Gone was the thick, humid, smoggy air and in its place, fresh, vibrant oxygen. Delightful.

We decided to drove downeast (aka down a peninsula) to get some lobster in New Harbor, shop in Damariscotta, and drive by our old house in Round Pond. When I was eight years old, my mom and I packed up her black Mazda pickup truck (yes, my mother is a truck lady through and through) and left Upstate New York for a trial year in Maine (my dad stayed in New York to finish out his job). It was a tough year being separated from my dad, but an incredible one that solidified the special bond I have with my mom.

We rented an old sea captain's house (in the picture above) in Round Pond, Maine, near where my mom secured a position as a teacher and I attended school. The family we rented from was abroad but came back to visit occasionally and we became friends (they had two young boys around my age). The house was a five-minute walk to the cove in Round Pound, and I recall many an evening spent skipping down to the shore with my next-door neighbor, Andrea. On our way home, we would stop by Granite Hall, the local general store for some penny candy and a soda pop.

The backyard of the house contained a dense wood, the perfect place to traverse on childhood odysseys like packing our "belongings" (aka school backpacks full of apples, granola bars, juice boxes and my stuffed bunny) to traverse the great frontier as pioneers). Across the street, a shallow pond that frozen in winter made the perfect ice skating rink. It was a wonderful place to be a child.

But when we drove by a few weeks ago, the house was gone. I was utterly shocked as we passed and remember just staring at my mom, who looked at me with the same bewilderment. Did we miss it? No, we definitely passed the property. I whipped out my phone and began searching for news stories that might explain what happened.

And then, I found it. A house fire. On March 11. The same day as the Japan earthquake and tsunami. Apparently, the fire had started on the second floor and it took fire crews from nine towns to put it out. And then it was declared a loss, and it appears that they demolished the house. We had lost touch with the owners over the years, so we have yet to find out more details.

It felt as though someone had pulled the rug out from beneath me. A place that meant so much in my life no longer existed. A death of sorts. For some reason, it's weighing deep in my heart these days. It was the beginning of so much for my family, and now, it's time has passed. I'll never forget what that house meant for my family - a new and better life in the great state of Maine.

Eggs + Salad

2011-07-05T18:28:00.000-07:00

The perfect meal in my mind consists of eggs and salad - especially in the hot summer months. It's all I feel like eating and it fills me up, which is good.

What's you favorite summer meal?

Wellness

2011-07-02T09:13:00.000-07:00

It's been a while, my friends. I have not felt the blog itch tickle my mind in quite some time. Sure, I will snap a photo of a new cooking experiment or a special scene, but a post never fully forms in my mind, let alone appear in this space. I realize that I only really come to this space when I need something from it. When I need to pour my heart out in this public journal. Sure, I could write about my thoughts in my actual journal (a lovely one designed by Jewels), but I blog to share my thoughts and see if other people resonate with them.

Another truth to admit: for the past month or so, I have felt unwell. That's the best way to describe it. It started with stomach troubles while traveling to NYC for my friend's wedding. The following week - a super hot one in DC - I felt progressively better and more lively. The next week, however, I was knocked flat on my back with weariness and the return of tummy troubles. I should clarify that I have the most immensely fickle stomach ever, and it flares up when I least expect it. And at this point, if you lasted to this point, you might be thinking TMI!.

ANYWAYS, whatever this thing was seems to have subsided thanks to some remedies. And I believe I am on my way to having more energy than I have had in long time. Once more I feel I can step out into the world, which includes the blogging world!

So, hello again to the dear few who frequent my blog! I wish you and your families and friends a happy Fourth of July weekend!!

Lots of Love

2011-05-31T21:19:00.000-07:00

My Memorial Day Weekend consisted of a trip to New York City/Long Island for the wedding of my college friend, Caitlin, to her longtime love, Jeff. It was a gorgeous weekend both in terms of the weather and a fabulous wedding.

I traveled to NYC on Saturday morning and met up with friends to see the Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty exhibit at the Met. Needless to say, the place was PACKED. We waited in a line for the exhibit for over an hour (a line that wound around the museum). But it was SO WORTH IT. The exhibit is only up until July 31, so it is definitely in high demand. Just utterly amazing in terms of the textures, the materials, the presentation, everything. The man was a tortured genius and after seeing the exhibit, I am curious to know more about his life. Both deeply unsettling and inspiring. See it and you'll know what I mean.

After the crowds of the Met, we lounged on the grass in Central Park for a few hours - absolutely delightful - and then wandered over to Greenwich Village for supper at a Mexican restaurant.

On Sunday, we dressed in our finest and traveled to Long Island for the wedding, which was held in a beautiful cathedral. The ceremony was so lovely and Caitlin was positively radiant, more beautiful than I have ever seen her.

The reception later that night was a splendid affair - a chance to catch up with dear, old friends and celebrate the first of us to get married (yikes!).

McQueen at the Met

The gorgeous married couple

Gratuitous fashion shot of me (Dress: H&M, Shoes: DSW, Clutch: TJ Maxx, Jewelry: J. Crew)

A quiet moment of friends at dinner

Two Katies looking resplendent

A conversation between old friends

A poorly lit image of an engaged couple living it up on the dance floor!

Cheers to the happy couple!

Jet| Plane

2011-05-16T17:58:00.000-07:00

There's a huge field - a park really - right on the other side of the landing strip at Reagan National Airport. On the weekends, people will bring picnics and lay out in the field as planes land directly overhead. I can't begin to describe how dramatic it is to watch these planes land. Because you are SO CLOSE. And they are SO LOUD. Like within of a few hundred feet of you sometimes. You have a 757 clearing you at a FEW HUNDRED FEET. Sometimes, it doesn't feel safe. And I love it. LOVE it. I could just sit there for hours and be so close to these flying monstrosities as they touch down. It's humbling in a similar way that the mountains or the ocean can sometimes feel like. Something bigger, grander than yourself.

Also, I think two things when I run through this park (part of the Mount Vernon trail that runs along the Virginia-side of the Potomac in this park): this place would be great for a North by Northwest photo shoot and then I think about LOST because, as I said, the planes fly right overhead and have that roaring sound heard on so many episodes.

In Time

2011-05-14T08:30:00.000-07:00

I am impatient for things to happen. So sometimes I pretend that they have already happened. Like when I walk down the street, I sort of pretend I am someone else. I pretend that the one man I have always loved finally loves me back. That I am a diplomatic attaché currently living in Washington, D.C. between posts. That I am fluent in French, Spanish, and Arabic. And that I finally published that novel ruminating in my mind since I was 14. I feel the truth of all these things. And I feel better for a few brief moments despite their actual fallacy.

I suppose it's easy for one to dream and yearn about such things. I have so much luck and now I want to stretch that luck further towards the above items. But then I wonder if any of these dreams are right or selfish? I do not wish to be a creature of discontent. I have been that creature and I hated myself for it.

So, here I am, hoping for a richer experience and knowing that such an experience can only be found through my own invention. And so off I go to invent!

She

2011-05-07T12:02:00.000-07:00

I mean, how GORGEOUS is she?!?

Always inquisitive and interested in new things and people

Yes, we have the same winter coat. We are both awesome and warm.

She

My mother

just

beautiful

intelligent

inquisitive

funny

supportive

AMAZING.

She's my best friend, and I am so grateful for her every day.

Happy Mother's Day, Mom!!

Views from the Apartment

2011-05-05T19:26:00.000-07:00

My apartment is what might be called "close to finished," so I thought I would share some snaps. The one above is of my living area. The centerpiece of this space is my red loveseat, which is a perfect mix of classic elegance and pure comfort. I love this sofa - it is the perfect cuddling piece. Next to the sofa, we have my antique shop find - a green oval side table. Behind the sofa, I have a black and white screen to separate my "bedroom" from the "living room." The color scheme for my apartment decor has ended up being: reds, blacks, blues, and greens. Quite unintentional, and yet, it works.

Across from the sofa sits a fabulous chair that I call my "seaweed" chair. Okay, it kind of looks like zebra print, but up close it feels more like seaweed. And on the chair, I sat a pillow I made from cloth with a sea star design (more close ups and the pillow back story in a future post). I also hung my huge framed Renoir painting. The black frame contrasts nicely with the cream walls.

I found this darling pouf ("mini" ottoman) to fit perfectly in the small space. It works as an ottoman and also a "coffee table" when I put a large art book on top. Eventually, I hope to get a tray to put down when entertaining guests.

My bedroom is behind the screen with my white iron bed and "bedside table," which is an antique white chair once owned by my great grandmother. And the quilt. My mother MADE me that quilt and gave it to me when she visited a few weeks ago (more on that in a future post). Is the amazing OR WHAT?!? I will always be the luckiest girl just by the fact of having my mother in my life.

Down the way from my bed is my "dining room," which is quite cluttered in this photo, but I was trying to give you a REAL sense of what it usually looks like!

And finally my kitchen, which I spiced up with a West Side Story movie poster and a vintage apron. I also put a little cherry blossom lamp (not shown) in the corner to cast a cozy light while I cook. I have little splashes of cherry blossoms throughout the apartment, a small homage to Japan as the horrific events of the March 11 earthquake occurred as I was building my life here in DC. The apartment also includes a full bathroom, walk-in closet, and hall closet - overall, a great, comfy space that certainly suits my needs these days.

A Refined Weekend

2011-05-02T18:15:00.001-07:00

I arose at 4 o'clock in the morning to watch the Royal Wedding. It felt like Christmas morning - the excitement, the anticipation. I drank tea and ate chocolate biscuits (McVitie's of course!) while Kate Middleton unveiled her gorgeous Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen wedding gown. My favorite moment was Kate meeting William at the alter - the first time he saw her in her gown - and just the incredible look of humble love between them. Breathtaking.

On Friday evening, I had some company to celebrate the Royal Wedding, serving homemade scones and more chocolate biscuits!

I also served Salade Lyonnaise and we drank sparkling wine in celebration!

I also played a little dress-up, trying to put together fun outfits that are work appropriate. My job requires more formal wear (not prom-like of course) than previous positions. I don't want to wear suits all the time, so I am trying to create interesting business (or close-to-business) outfits.

Saturday I strolled through the streets of Old Town Alexandria (trying to avoid the tourist-infested downtown DC). The houses there are GORGEOUS in their historic state, so prettily painted and landscaped. I think I may have to move there at some point. The weather was magically sunny and my walk proved to be quite a lovely experience.

I grew giddy when I saw these old-fashioned street lamps that were burning candles (or at least, that's what they looked like) - so emblematic of the historic South.

There's Nothing Like Family

2011-04-27T18:21:00.000-07:00

Antiquing with my mother in Alexandria

My dad peruses the delicacies at Eastern Market

Brimming bowls of lattes and plates laden with freshly herbed eggs at Le Pain Quotidien

The electric ceiling of the tunnel connecting the two buildings of the National Gallery of Art

My beautiful, stylish mom outside The Dubliner near Union Station in DC

Our Easter dinner table (the lace tablecloth was crocheted by my Great Grandma Cora)

The past week has been a whirlwind of family visits, dinners, sight seeing, and other activities around DC. It was cyclonic but so lovely. It was so special to see not only my parents but my closet aunt and uncle and their eldest son and his wife, all in the matter of a few weeks! Family is very important to me and it filled me with such joy to have this company. It was especially wonderful to have my parents here, staying in my apartment, touring my work, walking around my city - it made this new life of mine seem more real and meaningful. I have always been a lucky girl in my life, but now, here, I feel more lucky than ever and more appreciative of what I have been given, especially the incredible friends and family in my life.

Apartment Blooms and Some Passing Thoughts

2011-04-18T19:30:00.000-07:00

Purple daisies for the kitchen

Purple daisies in my mini Burleigh pitcher

Tulips and Hyacinths (with some violets to boot!)

Some merry yellow fleurettes

My family is coming for a visit this Easter week and I have made every effort to fill my apartment with fresh flowers. The project has been an absolute delight as spring is my favorite season and spring flowers are so fresh and a welcome sight.

***

I am so excited to have my dear family here this week. They are bringing the remainder of my belongings from Maine - absolutely incredible of them. I am so blessed with this life - cherished family and friends. However, now that I live by myself, I sometimes feel a more acute sense of loneliness as a still single girl. I know there are a myriad of things I could do to change that, but somehow, I feel I lack the will and faith that these things will produce any kind of a genuine connection. Anyways, I am glad my family will be here this week to fill the void a wee bit.

Wishing you all a joyous week!

Scarf Divine

2011-04-13T18:29:00.000-07:00

A pretty package

A scarf divine!

I discovered a tiny, flat package in my mailbox this afternoon. Once in my apartment, I tore off the packaging to find a sweetly wrapped gift - purple tissue and a silk ribbon the color of goldenrod. A note was written with love by my dear mother.

Unfolding the tissue, I beheld the most beautiful scarf, hand sewn my incredibly talented mother. She is the font of my inspiration - her creativity is boundless. I am so blessed to have her in my life (and I cannot wait to see her and my dad when they visit next week!!)!

This lovely token was just the antidote I needed for this taxing day.

The Romantics

2011-04-11T19:15:00.000-07:00

I finally saw this film and really enjoyed its gentle, playful tone. It is frothy with its carefree band of characters - late 20-something friends gathering for a wedding. Formal liberal arts majors. So there are literature references galore, which I love. What I found most surprising and enjoyable were the moments of intense, beautifully written dialogue that carried on a bit longer than most dialogue in movies tend to go. At least, it felt that way.

And the clothes. So pretty and funky. I think my favorite was Malin Ackerman's character's black and white strip dress she wears to the rehearsal dinner. The shot above shows the cast modeling J.Crew clothes - a style that definitely matches with the film's fashion! I found the movie entertaining and lulling with it's soundtrack of chill tunes.

Image found here.

Love Versus Life's Pursuit

2011-04-10T19:25:00.000-07:00

I finally saw The Adjustment Bureau this weekend and was really moved by the existential nature of this film. Despite the bad reviews, I thoroughly enjoyed the film with its Inception-like tone and the surprising chemistry of stars Matt Damon and Emily Blunt (side note: Blunts boho chic style rocked!).

What struck me the most about this film was its discussion of finding love versus attaining your life's purpose, your vocation. Questions are raised if you can have both true love and the career of your dreams. If your career path might prevent you from being with the one they love or vice versa. David (Damon) is a rising politician and Elise (Blunt) an rising dance star. Before they found each other, each character dedicated themselves to their career to "fill the void of love." When they meet and fall for each other, a question arises if they can continue to ascend in the same career direction with this weight of their new-found love.

When two people have divergent career paths but have such strong feelings for each other, how do you make that choice? In some cases, maybe you don't have to make that decision, but in the film, these two are asked to consider these choices. It made me think about my own career choices and if there will come a point where I will have to make that choice between my dreams and a love who has dreams of his own. My career is very important to me, but I want to know that great, deep love. I suppose I must hope for have both, and the opportunity to adjust my dreams to include that special person and a fulfilling vocation.

Original photo found here.

Blooms on a Moody Day

2011-04-06T17:23:00.000-07:00

The blooms were fully present on this changeable day

I adore the deep blue of the sky here

The approaching rain fell in sheets as it approached us

Last Saturday I found myself caught in a torrential rain and hailstorm while attending the Cherry Blossom Festival in downtown DC. Picture thousands of people (mostly tourists) in a mass panic due to the pelting hail, running across the Mall to see shelter in the closest Smithsonian. Pretty amusing actually.

Then, as suddenly as the storm came, it ceased and sunlight shot between the clouds. Such a moody day that created an interesting backdrop - dark greys mixing with the luminescent pastels of the cherry blossoms.

The weather reminded me so of England, prompting such yearnings to return to that beloved country.

Design Inspiration: Jane Eyre (2011)

2011-04-02T19:59:00.000-07:00

The exquisite movie poster for Jane Eyre

I finally made it to the theater to see the latest adaptation of Jane Eyre. Friends, I am much more an Austen girl versus a Brontë girl, but give me a period English film and I am at the theater regardless of my literary preferences. The day was perfect to see such a film - blustery and moody, dark clouds dispersed with stray lines of sunlight. I felt as though I was traversing an English moor as I crossed the Mall to get to the Landmark Theater in downtown DC.

I think the film did a service to Brontë's novel while casting it in a new, interesting light. Mia Wasikowsa does justice to the role of Jane -- being both reserved and revealing of her inner passions. Michael Fassbender as Rochester...well, let's just say I really enjoyed watching him smolder on screen in this role. Their passion was evident and well-portrayed. And Judy Dench was just adorable as Mrs. Fairfax.

Jane and Mrs. Fairfax looking lovely with their lace fashions

I adored the film's soundtrack by Dario Marianelli, which perfectly captured the mood of the film. The set and costume design were spot on, and I was so inspired by their use of lace -- curtains, dress embellishments. It made me consider how I can use lace in my own apartment in tribute to this fine English tradition. I could not find an image of the scene where Jane looks out a window decorated with the most exquisite lace curtains, but it was in that moment that I found inspiration.

The film also had the most beautiful flowers -- violets, cherry blossoms, and others -- a true tribute to an English spring. A floral influence is a heavy theme for my apartment decoration plan.

Jane and Rochester flirt amongst the blooms

Images found here, here, and here (copyright by Focus Features).

The Mysterious Allure of a Full Skirt

2011-03-31T17:54:00.000-07:00

I have fancied a full circle skirt à la 1950s and 60s style for some time, and recently procured such a skirt from that fabulous online emporium, Etsy. The vintage skirt -- quilted black material with gold threads embroidered in a subtle, swirly design -- arrived last week to my delight.

After getting it dry cleaned, I chose to wear the skirt to work yesterday with a black turtleneck, black tights, and black heels. The only pops of color were the gold in the skirt and the gold locket around my neck. I must admit to feeling quite the sophisticate, something out Desk Set or, dare I use the common reference, Mad Men.

It was a cold, rain-filled day -- perfect for such an outfit that had considerably more coverage than most due to the fact that the only skin to be seen was my face and hands. My shirt was somewhat form fitting but not in a provocative way.

This is all to preface a most bizarre, yet not unpleasant experience that I cannot disassociate with this skirt. Yesterday I have never received more stares from men passing in the halls or "good morning, ma'ms."

One gentleman stopped me in the hall to say, "Ma'am, I hope this doesn't get taken the wrong way, but you are absolutely beautiful." Absolutely beautiful. I have to linger on that comment for a moment because I have never received such a compliment before.

Okay, now before you think, "Um, that is totally creepy and gross." I have to say that I wasn't at all offended by this attention (especially because for once a man paying attention to me wasn't super old). Should I be offended? I've had offensive things said to me in the workplace before, and mostly in relation to my appearance. Those times I remember being was offended. But somehow, yesterday, I was amused and fascinated by the fact that I was receiving so much attention and that is was somehow related to this skirt.

Later in the day, a couple of guys in my office made jokes and references to my skirt -- one said it looked like a comforter, while another said it looked like curtains. In the context of their joking, again, I wasn't really offended because a) I am tough and b) the frequency and focus of their comments regarding my skirt suggested their fascination with it. One would think a particularly tight pencil skirt would draw more attention than a full skirt that betrays no hint of my body shape underneath. But perhaps, it was the full and total mystery of the shape that intrigued the men (for it was mostly men commenting, besides one female coworker who said "cute skirt!").

Instead of becoming incensed over the somewhat chauvinistic focus on my skirt, I just found it so interesting. Men conjuring up ways to bring my skirt into the conversation. It felt so silly.

Instead of getting mad, I just made jokes right along with them -- better jokes à la Tina Fey's method of mastering how to work successfully in a man's world, which is sometimes how I feel these days.

A Weekend That Fairly Sparkled

2011-03-28T19:15:00.000-07:00

The Cherry Blossoms bloomed in DC last weekend - a million tiny symbols of hope. For us all.

A dear friend visiting me in DC and looking lovely amongst the blooms

The day was bright, cold, and full of spring signs. I was so happy for this time.

The Tidal Basin and the Jefferson Memorial fairly sparkled.

Cherry Blossoms embellished the regality of the Library of Congress

My beautiful red loveseat finally appeared, making my apartment infinitely cozier!

Sunday coffee and pastry in Capitol Hill -- two of life's greatest pleasures

On Becoming a Professional Woman

2011-03-24T19:17:00.000-07:00

Picture a Friday night in late summer. The air is thick and hot, and those August crickets are crooning their evening tunes. In an effort to stay cool, my fourteen year-old self can be found camped out on the hardwood floor of my family's two hundred year-old Maine farmhouse, watching television and enjoying a quickly melting bowl of cookie dough ice cream (as if there was any other flavor).

There's not much on, so I put in a video (yes, as in VIDEO CASSETTE) rented from my local video store (what is that, you ask?). The movie in question happens to be My Best Friend's Wedding. A Julia Roberts event.

Over the next two hours, my eyes would be opened to a multitude of concepts I had rarely considered: the notion of being a successful, independent professional woman, the clothes you get to wear when you are said woman (note: while Julia's fashion in that film might be called into question in current times, the idea of wearing a suit of any kind intrigued me), what my wedding would look like, what my husband would look like -- aspects of being a woman.

Prior to seeing this movie, I had never really considered any of these things, focusing more on more adolescent pursuits. But for whatever reason, this movie opened a floodgate of ideas about being a woman in the modern age. The image of Julia's character in that movie became a symbol, a beacon of sorts, that I sort of moved toward ever since that first viewing.

A few months later, I saw the movie Stepmom. Another Julia extravaganza, this time a sad one. But again, I saw Julia play a successful professional woman who had done quite well for herself (loft in the city, Land Rover, nice clothes). Now I must admit that much of what had appealed to me in these movies are the material objects. Together they visualized a lifestyle that my teenage self thought she might like to have.

As I approach my late 20s, I feel in many ways I have become a version of that professional woman. But perhaps something better than Julia's food critic and photographer characters because I became me. Success and a comfortable life are still important to me, but I think the overt display of material wealth that once seemed attractive no longer appeals. I want to do well in my life but also live one that is modest and good.

I do see my beautiful new apartment and my new job in my new city, and cannot help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment of those adolescent longings.

I achieved much of my independence and success on my own, but really, what I have learned is that this life of mine would not have been possible without the incredible people supporting me - chiefly, my parents. They are incredibly kind, loving, fair people. And my friends - all bringing something unique to my life and giving me incredible support and laughter.

All of this is to say that being a professional woman is about your independence but it is also about learning to acknowledge your vulnerabilities and accept help from those who love you. The riches that come from those connections can yield a wondrous existence for any woman.

Image found here.

Blooms

2011-03-21T19:07:00.000-07:00

I took this picture while running around the Tidal Basin last weekend. The Tidal Basin is where the heart of the Cherry Blossom Festival takes place. The fully-budded trees are on the verge of bursting forth in blooms. The scene - especially with the majestic Jefferson Memorial - is stunning. My favorite place in DC.

Life has moved at a normal clip in the past week, and I have been busy with work, apartment settling, friend visiting, and planning for my upcoming visitors. All such normal, lucky things.

But amidst all this, my heart continues to weigh heavy over the horrific devastation in Japan. I feel so strange to be living while so many have died a world away. They describe the destruction as "Biblical." The incomprehensibleness of this scares me. Humbles me every day. Here I am, building my life, while so much life was destroyed.

In a small, simple way, I want to incorporate cherry blossom inspiration into my apartment, as a sort of tribute to the spirit of a nation that has been so wounded. I want my fortune to always be tied to this moment as a reminder and a symbol.

Table Coverings

2011-03-13T16:50:00.000-07:00

I am building the decor in my apartment little by little.

With the whole apartment, I want to create a very nature-inspired, garden-like feeling. A little of the outdoors indoors, if you will.

A trip to Crate and Barrel last weekend produced lush green place mats for a mere $6. I loved the rich green of them - it reminded me of freshly mowed grass in early June. The ivory linen napkins were found at World Market ($10 for 6!). I had a small chiffon table mat from April Cornell, which I used to place under a small glass of merry Gerber daisies (contrasting nicely with the green place mats). The table is a simple wooden one from Ikea, but I like it for it's country kitchen feeling.

I want this space to be functional, tasteful, and enjoyable as it is both an eating and working space.

Namaste

2011-03-12T07:10:00.000-08:00

I feel such a deep, futile sorrow over the Japanese earthquake and its aftermath. The devastation is a world away and I am going about my daily routine. But the people of Japan - resilient and beautiful - are always in my heart and prayers (see this meaningful blog post by The New York Times' Nicholas Kristof).

Nature usually reveals its pulchritudinous side to us, but this horrific event serves as a reminder of its shear power and the fact that we humans are but mere guests on this earth.

Summertime

2011-03-09T18:05:00.000-08:00

{Hepburn and Brazzi embrace in a Venetian courtyard}

{The lovers enjoy the Italian scene}

{Hepburn admires a gorgeous Italian shoe (a prelude to Carrie Bradshaw)}

All I wanted to do this evening was relax and watch a good film, and the Turner Classic Movie channel did not disappoint by airing Summertime or Summer Madness (1955), starring Katharine Hepburn and Rossano Brazzi (Emile de Becque in South Pacific). Hepburn's character is Jane, an American woman traveling to Europe for the first time. The film is rich with quiet, breathtaking scenes of Jane's solitary character walking around Venice. It made me long for that special stillness only found on an Italian street. Brazzi plays Ronaldo, a dashing Italian antique dealer who woos Jane into an affair.

My favorite scene is set in St. Mark's Place: Jane sits at a cafe, snapping pictures and enjoying the scene while Ronaldo admires her from a nearby table. Once she realizes he is watching her, she quickly puts on her sunglasses and nervously tries to pay her cafe bill. The scene is so comical and, I must admit, is reminiscent of a similar event that happened to me the other day. Why must we women be so awkward when attractive men pay us attentions?! It just proves that certain human qualities are timeless.

I do recommend this film -- a fun frolic in Venice, with lots of meaningful moments and a rich tribute to 1950s fashion.

Images found here.

A Design Journey

2011-03-05T08:54:00.000-08:00

My cup continues to runneth over as I continue to settle into my new apartment! I feel so blessed to have this space to call my own and to furnish in accordance with my style. My dear and incredibly thoughtful friend Emily recently sent me Domino: The Book of Decorating to guide me as I begin to bring this comfortable space to life through design (an undertaking that I hope will not break my pocketbook!)!

I hope to post design developments on the blog, showing before and after photos of each area in my humble, yet darling studio apartment.

First off, the picture above is my current nightstand situation: using a chair as a nightstand -- an idea that I discovered through Chelsea Fuss's blog, {frolic!}. Since I have very little furniture right now, I used the chair more out of practicality than fashion, but I really like the idea nonetheless.

I am determined to ensure that this space is not cluttered with furniture and bits and bobs (an English phrase). Domino asks me to determine my style, and, at the outset, I would like the theme to be English Country with a slight modern edge (but let's face it, it's me so there are going to be florals everywhere). I miss England so and I wish this space to be a little pocket of my favorite country. I chose to have my own place because I require a calm, comforting refuge after a day spent in the chaos of the world.

I am thrilled to begin this little design journey and hope you, my dear friends, will join me! Happy weekending!

Rochester

2011-02-27T06:58:00.000-08:00

There Is No Debt
Jane Eyre at MOVIECLIPS.com

I have never been a fan of the Brontes - I find their novels too dark and moody. I appreciate their art but I never actively reread their novels (unlike Austen or Montgomery). And I never really enjoy movies made based on their novels. Until now. They remade Jane Eyre, starring Mia Wasikowska as Jane and the ruggedly handsome Michael Fassbender as Mr. Rochester. Check out their electric chemistry in the clip above. I have read a few articles on this movie and I think the director used a different kind of treatment that I am excited to see. And of course, to see Fassbender smoulder as Rochester.

Trailer is here.

Video clip found here.

Palatial Environs

2011-02-21T18:10:00.000-08:00

This day off found me wandering around Capitol Hill. The weather was damp and grey (for a change - it's been gorgeous during this past week). It set a pensive, calm mood for me. I walked from Union Station up to the Capitol, behind the Capitol and over to the Supreme Court and the Library of Congress.

Though I had experienced these buildings before, I was struck by their incredibly ornate, regal presence. For instance, looking at the back of the Capitol was like looking at one of the great palaces of Europe. Except, there is no monarch here but the People of the United States. My roommate said she always thought of the Capitol as the "People's Palace." I like that. I was truly humbled by these noble structures - which is exactly why I moved here. To be near things that feel majestic (kind of dorky but true).

{Walking up to the Capitol}

{The People's Palace, i.e. The Capitol}

{The People's Judicial Centre, i.e. The Supreme Court}

{My heaven, i.e. The Library of Congress}

{Inside the Library of Congress - so regal}

{Carpeting in the LOC's Main Reading room - my type of rug}

{The view from the LOC - my new city!}

Decisions, Decisions

2011-02-20T13:19:00.000-08:00

Life has been a gorgeous flurry as of late. New job, apartment searching, seeing old friends - every girl should be so lucky! But now I am just ready for things to settle a bit. I think I may have found a permanent place to live so fingers crossed it happens! In the meantime, I have been thinking about furnishing my new digs (I am finally going to have my very own place!). First stop is some kind of sofa, preferably a sleeper sofa for guests. Here are some cute options I am considering (has anyone ever ordered furniture from Urban Outfitters?):

Urban Outfitters

Ikea

Images found here and here.

I Wish You Love

2011-02-14T19:23:00.000-08:00

I wish you love. Love for your life. For all that you have been given. For all that you have yet to receive. For all the incredible people you have met and have yet to meet. To me, this day is about so much more than commercial validation of romance. It is about our very human capacity to care deeply for another person, whoever they may be. Love to you all!

Real Love

2011-02-08T17:45:00.000-08:00

I saw Blue Valentine over the weekend. Wow. It ripped at a deep part of myself -- to see these heart-wrenching lovers. You feel the weight of their lives and see their struggle to meet on the same plateau. So much of themselves and their history gets in the way. It was beautifully sad.

In other news, starting work again has been so great but so exhausting. I haven't felt altogether blog inspired lately - my mind is preoccupied with new job, new city, finding a permanent place to live - so this space might be quiet in the next few weeks.

Image found here.

A Special Light

2011-01-31T13:08:00.000-08:00

This little lamp is the first home furnishing piece I have purchased for my DC living (the pretty dresser it sits on belongs to the girl whose room I am subletting). I walked to a nearby Target to get some supplies after finally reaching my apartment (after a day of travel). I am not a huge fan of overhead lights so a lamp was a must to cast a cozy glow. The shade is a pastel green and I love the clear plastic globes on the stem. I have admired this lamp before and last night it felt so perfect to purchase it!

Today was the first time I drove in DC. I Zipcared in a cute red Prius called "Pea" to Alexandria, VA to deal with paperwork for my new job. Let's just say what should have been a half hour trip turned into an hour and half. DC is confusing for a first-time driver! But I survived and learned a ton about the cityscape.

Tomorrow is my first day of work and I am nervous/excited to see how it will all play out! I have the best feeling of this move being so right. Have you ever gotten that feeling about a place or a person or even your choice of toothpaste? It's pretty fantastic.

Clear and Bright

2011-01-27T12:37:00.000-08:00

I took this shot at a tiny point near my parents' house in Maine. I have also shot this place here on a moody October day. During the summer, I would often ride my bike over to this place to read or to just sit in the silence of the quiet ocean inlet.

Today the expanse is frozen, white, so incredibly bright. It almost burns your eyes. The sun is brilliantly reflected. In some ways, I think this is what heaven must feel like. Brilliant. Pure. An alabaster haven.

Not that this winter is my heaven. It's been so bitterly cold and snow-filled. My heaven would only have snow from December until mid-January.

During the past few days, I have been furiously packing and tying up loose ends in Maine. In the midst of all this chaos, I realize how much I will miss Maine. I love this place so much. This is the place where I have lived the longest. But I have such yearnings for new experiences, new people, and a varied life. I so crave a varied life.

So I'll leave for now with the promise to someday return. To return, when my life once more requires the calm, clean tempo of a Maine lifestyle.

Miss Bowen Goes to Washington!

2011-01-25T09:45:00.000-08:00

This gold briefcase was part of the magic ensemble that finally procured me that Washington, DC job! My blog silence over the past week has been a result of flying to DC for interviews, looking for an apartment, finishing a freelance project, and finally, contracting a head cold!

I am thrilled beyond belief that all this is happening! For so long, I had been contemplating so many different paths and now it seems that one has opened up for me to proceed towards one of my dreams: living and working in DC.

This dream could not have been possible without the unfailing support of my family and friends! I am so thankful for the people I have known in my life (including many of the kindred spirits I have gained from blogging!)!

Get ready for many DC-inspired posts as I explore my new neighborhood!

A Golden Weekend

2011-01-14T08:02:00.000-08:00

When I was a little girl, I LOVED to play dress-up. I had a pretty fantastic dress-up collection (and secretly preferred my friends who had the better dress-ups). Though I am older now, every once in a while, I feel a penchant for dressing in something frivolous and totally out of character. Like say, a celebrity at the Golden Globes, which happen to be on this weekend! Love this glitzy, vacuous program where one can completely zone out from reality and be swept up into the inanity of celebrity culture (and if you think that a good portion of my brain is occupied with the latest celebrity gossip, well, you would be correct)!

If I were attending the ceremonies this year, I would wear one of these stunning Elie Saab gowns (if I wore the second one, I think I'd give the girls a little more support, if you know what I'm saying?). Love the fresh vibrancy of his Spring 2011 RTW line.

Have a nice weekend!

Images found here.

Terrific TV Tips

2011-01-13T16:50:00.000-08:00

The winter time of year is perfect for cuddling under a fluffy blanket, popping yummy popcorn (I like mine with parmesan cheese and herbs), and catching up on some good television. I love my television shows, especially many of the popular ones like The Office, Modern Family, and Glee.

However, I wanted to highlight three shows that I have been watching lately that are absolutely fantastic and should be watched by all!

1.) Parenthood

This show does the coolest, most interesting treatment of parenting that makes it fun for everyone - not just parents - to watch. I love big ensemble cast shows because there's so much more room for plot development and this show is doing a fine job of presenting the family of Bravermans in an intriguing and endearing way. Lauren Graham has done an impeccable job distancing herself from the character of Lorelai Gilmore through a subtly nuanced portrayal of Sarah, a mother who has little self-esteem and direction in her life. Another favorite is Peter Krause who plays the eldest brother Adam, the one always put upon and expected to not complain. He is always there to deliver an inspiring line and comfort his family. The four Braverman kids/parents have such a strong chemistry as a quartet and then within their own respective families. The little kids are adorable, smart, and well-cast to look like their parents (Mae Whitman kills it as Amber). Additional fun fact: the creator of Parenthood was also the head writer of Friday Night Lights (which I don't include in this post because this excellent show is sadly in its last season), so you know this show is well-written.

Overall, Parenthood is believable, sends goods messages, and feels like a nice respite against the inane crap that exists on the tube today! If only NBC would move it to the 9PM (instead of Tuesdays at 10 PM ET) slot because I think the show would be infinitely more successful!

2.) The Good Wife

Wow. Is this ever a smart show. The Good Wife keeps you on your toes the entire time, managing to throw in little twists and big turns to keep you guessing until the end. Starting with a Spitzer-style scandal, the show centers around Alicia Florrick (played so well by Julianna Margulies) who goes back to work after her politician husband (Chris Noth in a Mr. Big-like character) is incarcerated and lambasted for his indiscretions. She is a first year associate at a law firm run by her law school crush, Will Gardner (played by the always sexy Josh Charles). Each episode takes on a interesting and smartly- presented case. The show sometimes makes me wish I hadn't backed out of the law school track (but then I read this article). Watch this show if you like smart, intriguing ensemble dramas with characters who have electric chemistry, both romantic and non. Although, The Good Wife currently airs at the same time as Parenthood, Tuesdays at 10 PM ET (on CBS) #firstworldproblems

3.) Parks and Recreation

This NBC show is so funny it makes me giddy. Currently surpassing The Office (which broke the ground in so many ways for this type of comedy) in strength of humor, Parks and Recreation has a magical cast with, again, the chemistry that keeps me coming back. Leslie Knope (played so sweetly by Amy Poehler) is the deputy director of the Parks and Recreation department in Pawnee, Indiana. The rest of the characters are workers in the P&R department or a friend of Leslie's (Rashida Jones' Ann is always there so I don't know why they don't give her a job). My favorite characters are Tom Haverford (played so awesomely by Aziz Ansari) and Ron Swanson (Nick Offerman), whose mustache makes me giggle. Also, his cell phone ring tone is a gunshot, which should be offensive, but for some reason, it's hilarious because it's Ron. That's how good this show is. It makes gunshot ring tones funny. It comes back on January 20 at 9:30 PM ET!

Images found here, here, and here.

Blog Admiration

2011-01-13T10:45:00.000-08:00

The talented and lovely Jewels of The Red Otter Shop named me for an "I love your blog" award, and with this sweet honor, I get to share a bit about myself below.

1. why did you create your blog?
I started the blog to get into the regular practice of writing and improve my skills. My first posts were quite long, essay-like. Reading other blogs and connecting with bloggers was not initially on my radar. But I remember when I received my first comment from erin and I started reading her lovely blog and then found other bloggers through her blogroll. Soon, I had found the most amazing, inspiring women - most of whom I have never met but am so thankful to know through the words and images of their blogging spaces! Blogging and commenting on the blogs of these kindred spirits has become an unexpected joy in my life.

2. what kind of blogs do you follow?
An unintended, yet delightful discovery for me has been design and lifestyle blogs, which are the type that I enjoy the most! I am such a design amateur but have been so inspired by all the talent and creativity that exists in the blog world! I also love DIY and again, there is such vision for how to live in a splendid life in an homemade, inexpensive way.

3. favorite makeup brand?
Aveda. Lately, I have been trying to go mineral- and plant-based for my beauty products in lieu of chemicals.

4. favorite clothing brand?
Madewell and J.Crew are my standards. But I am a sucker for a good find at TJ Maxx or Marshall's. And anything from a vintage clothing store.

5. your indispensable makeup product?
Eyeliner. I feel like my eyes come alive!

6. your favorite colour?
Coral. I love the warmness of it!

7. your perfume?
I have many scents for various occasions. But I must admit that my favorite scent (and the one I get the most compliments for) is Bath and Body Works' Moonlit Path.

8. your favorite film?
This is a tough one because I love movies! So I am picking the two that I can watch over and over without tiring: the 1994 film version of Little Women and Away We Go.

9. what country would you like to visit and why?
I have never vacationed in a warm location so Costa Rica is next on my travel list. But my bigger plan is to some day take the train from Vienna, Austria to Venice, Italy!

10. make-up the last question and answer it yourself: what is the most significant lesson you've learned in your life so far?
In this past year, I have been on a journey of self-discovery (as corny as it sounds), and I have learned that there is only so much of our life that we can control. In the end, going with the flow and not setting up too many expectations makes this whole process of living so much easier and a happier experience.

I must now choose 10 bloggers whose blogging spaces I love (in addition to Jewel's)! These blogging wonders can participate or abstain at their leisure! Here are the 10 (of course, it's hard to stop at 10 if you look at my ever-growing blogroll!): Amanda, Ingrid, Mara, janis, dani, Mariah, Danielle, erin, Meg, and rachel!

Winter's Mantle

2011-01-12T10:52:00.000-08:00

A Winter Dawn

Above the marge of night a star still shines,

And on the frosty hills the sombre pines

Harbor an eerie wind that crooneth low
Over the glimmering wastes of virgin snow.

Through the pale arch of orient the morn
Comes in a milk-white splendor newly-born,
A sword of crimson cuts in twain the gray
Banners of shadow hosts, and lo, the day!

~ Lucy Maud Montgomery

The house and yard appear in a alabaster mantle of newly fallen snow. I am tucked into a cozy home, fires sparkling merrily and Julia Child's coq au vin simmering in the dutch oven. Rich, comforting smells waft throughout the house. The day will be spent reading Coco Chanel and Igor Stravinsky (based on the recent film), watching The Young Victoria (and craving an English Spring), and perhaps a game of Scarbble or two! Hoping you are cozy wherever you are!

House Love: Avonlea's Rose Cottage

2011-01-11T13:02:00.000-08:00

I've been watching copious amounts of the critically-acclaimed (I love the fluff and drama associated with that phrase, critically-acclaaaaaaaimed) Canadian series, Road to Avonlea. Did you watch the show growing up? I can honestly say that I am a product of all things Lucy Maud Montgomery, Prince Edward Island, Avonlea, Anne of Green Gables, etc.

Watching the show has been a great comfort during these brisk winter days. I love the genuineness of the characters and the sincere family connections. And their gorgeous clothes - sometimes I feel as though I was born in the wrong time.

What I have also realized, watching the show as an adult, is that I covet Rose Cottage, the home of Hetty King (who in my opinion is one of the best characters ever written and portrayed by the late Jackie Burroughs).

The name itself is enough to inspire. It is certainly a dream home - tucked amidst the trees on a dirt road, a wraparound porch, a cheery yellow exterior, and deliciously cozy interiors!

Image found here, here.

A Weekend of Kindred Spirits

2011-01-10T10:33:00.000-08:00

{Three good friends out for Ingrid's birthday last summer}

There was a significant portion of my life (middle school to the end of high school), where I did not really have the kindred spirit-type friends that I had always longed for ever since I read Anne of Green Gables. I suppose that's normal for many people. We are in such a state of development in those years that it can be challenging to have meaningful relationships.

However, college and after has been such a transforming experience for me in terms of the incredible people I have met! Two of those people, Emily and Ingrid, came to visit me in Maine this weekend! It was so lovely to be surrounded by such soulful people my own age! We shopped, we dined, we relaxed and watched trashy television, and we had leisurely, soul-reviving conversations. I can honestly say that one of the greatest privileges in life is to have simple, yet meaningful times with good people.

In contrast to the relaxing weekend, life has kick started in full force this Monday and I am working to keep up with it! Hope you all are having a lovely Monday!

Book Review: Love in a Cold Climate | The Pursuit of Love

2011-01-06T11:13:00.000-08:00

If you like Jane Austen and you have even the slightest bit of sauciness in your personality, then you will get a kick out of Nancy Mitford's The Pursuit of Love and Love in a Cold Climate (you can purchase both in one book). Written in the 1940s, both novels take place between the world wars in England. They tell the story of a well-to-do set of girls who are in their late teens/early twenties and fraught with the decisions of which young man to marry or sometimes divorce (eek!)! Both novels are told from the perspective of Fanny Logan, a meek girl who is in awe of her more frivolous cousin, Linda Alconleigh, and her friend, Polly Hampton.

I will say that I thought The Pursuit of Love improved as the story developed but ended quite suddenly for my tastes. I prefer Love in a Cold Climate because we hear more about the narrator, Fanny, whose character remains quite in the shadows during The Pursuit of Love (the spotlight there is all about the romantic dealings of Linda Alconleigh). To that end, Fanny reminds me very much of Fanny Pryce in Mansfield Park.

Both novels are quite frothy and good fun to read on a winter's evening when one is looking for diversion to the characters' colorful outings in the English countryside.

Also, the cover of this edition was styled by the incomparable fashion designer, Cecil Beaton!

Image found here.

Calandrier 2011: Live with Intention

2011-01-03T11:04:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite parts of the new year is starting afresh with a new calendar! My mother lovingly gave me a beautiful desk calendar called 'Live With Intention.' It is seriously the prettiest calendar I have ever received in terms of its construction as well as the delicate watercolor paintings and calligraphic quotes. I sometimes find calendars with quotes rather cheesy, but these quotes are smart, simple, unpretentious. Each day is given enough space to accommodate my messy, large scrawl and there are also strategically placed spots for notes and reminders. Just delightful!

Do you look forward to getting your new calendars? What kind of calendar do you have?

NewYear

2010-12-31T08:48:00.000-08:00

I glanced through some of the archives of The Marginalian from this past year, and started to do a post with tons of links and pictures. But then, I realized that I wanted to share a more simple message.

I started off this year with the hope of a new chapter, which turned out not to be as bright and shiny as I had originally thought. However, the trials of this year hold more value for my development than I imagined. It was meant to purge all my bad feelings and perspectives. A cleansing of deteriorating thoughts.

And now I am firmly on square one. But this time, I am equipped with the knowledge and direction that I was lacking 365 days ago. And I am ready to step onto a higher square and whether or not it's the right square, I feel ready to take on the next set of challenges and to label any experience I might have formerly called a "mistake" as a wrinkle that will enlighten me further about living in this majestic world. For it is truly a wondrous place. One in which I want to delight more in the coming year.

Happy New Year!

The Wall Décor of The King's Speech

2010-12-28T14:07:00.000-08:00

I saw The King's Speech over the weekend and adored it! Such a wonderful film about the King George VI/the Duke of York and his speech impediment. Colin Firth (I simply swoon over his kind eyes and dashing countenance) plays an incredible, nuanced role as do Geoffrey Rush as his voice coach, Lionel Logue, and Helena Bonham Carter as Queen/Lady Elizabeth. What I love most about Lionel Logue is that he truly believed in his technique and skill despite all the naysayers. A truly inspiring character.

One aspect that jumped out to me was the way director Tom Hooper shot the movie, including several shots with vibrant walls behind the characters. Indeed, the walls -- especially the chipped paint and wallpaper of Logue's office -- became characters in the film to me. Beautiful retro textures and designs were used and I am nominated the set design crew for their Oscar right now! Here is an interview with the director, where he goes into detail about using the wall space in the film.

Images found here, here, and here.

Christmas Skies

2010-12-27T12:07:00.000-08:00

{A Christmas Eve moon}

{The walk to Pott's Point in Harpswell, Maine}

{Pott's Point, Harpswell}

{The barren branches were decorated with merry holiday ornaments}

{Waving to the Irish cousins}

{A Maine Christmas sky - love the little splotches of pink amidst the greys and blues}

I hope you all had a beautiful holiday (or weekend, if you don't celebrate Christmas)! We had the typical quiet, peaceful time, which I believe Christmas is all about. We went down to the beach on Christmas day to commune with the oceanscape and wave to our cousins in Ireland (to whom we had just wished a Merry Christmas on the phone)! I am so taken by the skies this year - never before have I ever noticed and been in awe of the stunning skies we have here in Maine (Maria Alexandra Vettese created scarves from images of the Maine summer sky). The first picture is one I took of the moon on Christmas Eve night - the most magical night of the year!

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-23T12:10:00.000-08:00

Wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas (and holiday season!)!! The best things about Christmas these days are the sights (scenes of my parents' lovely Maine home + the cutest dog and cat combo you'll ever encounter) and the sounds (no one says 'Merry Christmas' better than Judy Garland)!

Peace and love to all who frequent The Marginalian!

Sparkly Pins

2010-12-20T06:05:00.000-08:00

I discovered some antique pins that were given to me by the grandmotherly ladies that I encountered during antiquing with my mom when I was a little girl. Fact: If you go antiquing at the age of seven and are quiet and charming, people will give you free, albeit old, stuff. I am enchanted by this find and intend to add some sparkle to my holiday lapels with these sweet pins.

Holidays Hums

2010-12-17T05:33:00.000-08:00

A few of my favorite holidays tunes for your weekend! Starting off with the incomparable Judy and ending with a little Love Actually admiration. I also discovered the soundtrack to The Bishop's Wife, one of the best holiday movies starring Cary Grant, Loretta Young, and David Niven -- well worth your time this holiday season!

Cameo Dilemma

2010-12-16T08:00:00.000-08:00

Friends, I need some jewelry design advice! I have this cameo pin (well, the pin apparatus is broken) that was my grandmother's and I want to do something with it. I am not a real wearer of pins. Rather than fixing it for a pin, I was contemplating turning it into a long necklace or maybe a shorter one? What do you think? Any other ideas? I am at the mercy of your design savvy!!

A little background: a cameo is made from a stone or shell cut in relief. Originating in either Grecian or Roman times (there is debate about exactly where), cameos were popular among several majestic monarchs, including Queen Elizabeth I and Catharine the Great. They developed a mainstream popularity during the Victorian Age (1830s-1900) when women's clothing was very dour and reserved -- and in need a darling little cameo pin to spruce up the neckline of an austere black dress. Cameos are featured as pins, necklaces, rings, and earrings.

Great House

2010-12-14T10:35:00.000-08:00

I read The History of Love for a women's literature class in college and loved it. The intricate storytelling, the colorful characters, and the lingering power of the story after the last page had been turned. So I was thrilled to check a bright and shiny new copy of Nicole Krauss' latest book, Great House, out of the library.

Having just finished the novel, I am left with a sense of awe over the magnitude of the story that unravelled over the course of about 300 pages. Krauss writes like a modern Tolstoy -- vibrant characters acting in a plot that is rich with didactic moments. The book is divided into a series of vignettes, each given two sections that are dispersed across the novel. The story traces the history of a great wooden writing desk with many drawers from owner to owner, stringing with it the story of a young Chilean man with mysterious origins.

You meet a struggling female writer, a brother and sister with a different sort of relationship, a man struggling with his writer wife's Alzheimer's, an Israeli man coping with his wife's death and son's return from abroad. All of these stories connect in such an intriguing way that was in no way predictable - at least through my intelligence.

Rife with memorable lines and literary moments, Great House is a stunning story that is worth your time indeed.

Image found here.

Grace Potter and the Nocturnals

2010-12-13T05:40:00.000-08:00

The certain highlight from my weekend was seeing Grace Potter and the Nocturnals at the State Theatre in Portland, Maine. Recently redone, the State was the perfect venue for a folk rock group. We had pretty good seats and were able to see the whole band and all their theatrics during the show. The group is great live and gave a full, exciting concert. With their latest album, they have really transitioned from a folk group to a folk rock genre. They played almost the entire album along with their quieter, earlier work. They remind me of Tina Turner/Janis Joplin/The Rolling Stones/The Beatles (the guys look like The Beatles). One of my favorites, "Paris," they saved for the very last song of their encore set, a perfect way to end the night. Here's the music video of Paris - oo la la!

Woman Making the World Better

2010-12-08T07:48:00.000-08:00

This week, TED put together a collection of their talks revolving around women's roles in the world. I love the idea of TED - some of the smartest, most compassionate people spreading their message in 20 minute videos. My mind is on somewhat of a rampage these days as it tries to figure out its purpose in the hopes that the final result will be meaningful to something bigger than myself. Below are some of my favorite talks, given by passionate women who are making the world a better place.

Sheryl WuDunn, co-author of Half the Sky (with husband Nicholas Kristof), takes about how half the world's women are missing due to discrimination in many cultures. She cites examples of how several women have overcome the prejudice of their society to see success and happiness. She also points out the importance of giving to something bigger than yourself - the responsibility to think in a global context.

Emily Pilloton is a graphic designer who founded Project H Design, a nonprofit design firm that helps people who might not normally have access to design services. Since becoming more involved in the design world, through blogging, I have often wondered how to mesh the beauty of a design technique with a humanitarian cause. Emily has done just this in the North Carolina. In impoverished, fading Bertie County, Emily and her partner Matt incorporated design elements into languishing schools, which has produced happier, more successful students. They have also worked with the county to design a message and look that will engage the community more and hopefully boost productivity and development in the area. She's doing good work and seeing the benefits as the result of her labors. An intriguing case study for the creative, compassionate soul.

Kavita Ramdas of The Global Fund for Women talks about providing aid to women, while also keeping in mind the traditions of their culture. This is crucial to any aid or humanitarian intervention. Paul Farmer knows this. James Orbinski (author of An Imperfect Offering - such a good read about humanitarian intervention) understands. And yet, so many aid organizations offer without any consideration of the cultural context. Ramdas does a good job of touching on this and sharing some poignant stories.

And then there's Jane Goodall. The woman was a secretary in England who was always passionate about chimpanzees. So, on the advice of a friend, she telephoned the Kenyon paleontologist Louis Leakey to set up an appointment to discuss his research. Leakey was planning to study chimpanzees and great apes so he hired Jane as a secretary and later sent her to Tanzania. The rest is history. Jane is just charming in this video - intelligent, humble, and informative. A must-watch.

Adjusting Her Sails

2010-12-07T17:03:00.000-08:00

"She stood in the storm, and when the wind did not blow her way, which it certainly did not, she adjusted her sails."

~ Elizabeth Edwards

A Winter's Tale (by Mae)

2010-12-07T06:05:00.000-08:00

Wait, something's different. I can't quite put my paw on it.

MUST. GO. OUTSIDE. TO. INVESTIGATE. Please hurry up and open that door!

Oooo! I think I know what this stuff is and I think I love it!

Going to check it out for official confirmation.

Okay, this fluffy stuff is AMAZING! Now please, throw me a...

SNOWBALL!!!

Image edited via Rollip.

To Lead an Extraordinary Life

2010-12-06T10:16:00.000-08:00

I've written about my family's love of the book and 1994 film Little Women before, but after watching it per holiday tradition last evening, I found renewed inspiration in the lovely words of the screenplay, translated from Louisa May Alcott's sacred text. I think of years more in terms of birthdays than calendar or school years. So as I begin this next year on my birthday today, I seek to keep in mind some of the most sacred sentiments expressed in the film. In the coming year I want to lead an extraordinary life.

The film is a perfect medium to stimulate creativity and passion for one's work.

Marmee always knows what to say:
"Oh, Jo, you have so many extraordinary gifts, how can you expect to lead an ordinary life?
Go, and embrace your liberty. And see what wonderful things come of it."

Every time I watch the film, Gabriel Byrne as Friedrich Bhaer becomes sexier and sexier:
"You must write from life, from the depths of your soul!"

I so admire Jo's passion and longing to live fervently through her art:
"Late at night my mind would come alive with voices and stories and friends
as dear to me as in the real world.
I gave myself up to it, longing for transformation."

Marmee's moralism is quite infectious and aspirational:
"I only care what you think of yourself. If you feel that your value lies in being merely decorative, I fear
that someday you might find yourself believing that is all you really are.
Time erodes all such beauty, but what it cannot diminish is the wonderful workings of your mind,
your humor, your kindness, and your moral courage.
These are the things I cherish so in you."

Image found here.

I Am Love + Happy Weekend

2010-12-03T06:16:00.000-08:00

I watched I Am Love last evening. Wow. Leaves you with an unsettled feeling, a sort of wonderment. Starring Tilda Swinton, this Italian film was seriously stunning in so many ways. It's gorgeous cinematography and use of Milan as the setting (the opening Christmas scene still haunts me in its ethereal beauty). The plot is so unexpected and at times shocking that the viewer finds herself completely wrapped up in the story's events. The acting is impeccable. I read somewhere that the film has been called a "modern-day Madam Bovary," a label I think to be fitting. Just a thought-titillating film that is well worth your time (that is, if you don't mind subtitles)!

I am thankful for the weekend. A friend is visiting (at last, someone my own age!!), who's thinking of moving to Maine so I'll play tour guide and pretend that I am on a mini holiday! After that visit, I will be going to one of my favorite restaurants, El Camino (voted best cocktail - their Pomegranate Margarita - by GQ), for an early birthday dinner! Wishing you all a delightful weekend!

Image found here.

This is How a Man Should Dress

2010-12-02T08:26:00.000-08:00

Okay, just saw this image on The Sartorialist and, well, if a man sat across from me, looking like this, I would never leave the table. SO handsome. I swoon. Love the cardigan under the blazer with a collared shirt. And doesn't he have the kindest face? I think I need to move to Milan.

Image found here.

If It's Just Us, Then It's an Awful Waste of Space

2010-12-02T07:35:00.000-08:00

Once upon a time, I wanted to be an astronomer. Well, when I first read Carl Sagan's novel Contact and then saw the movie starring Jodie Foster. The story's content is both fascinating and humbling - the idea that there is a whole universe out there so much greater than our minuscule Earth and yet, at the same time, how "rare and precious" we all are here on Earth.

At 12 years old, I had my little telescope (three years later, I received a much bigger one that, regrettably, I never quite figured out how to use) and would perch on our porch most summer nights trying to find signs of life beyond our own. It was the greatest thrill of my age - to wonder at the vastness and possibility of the night sky.

So it was exciting to read about astronomers' findings that there may be sextillions and sextillions of stars in the universe as well as galaxies that have similar properties to the Milky Way, meaning there is a much higher chance of other planets like Earth.

It's mind boggling and it makes me think of my favorite line that Ellie's dad tells her as a little girl in Contact:

"If it's just us, it's an awful waste of space."

Below, a clip that is an incredible tribute to the search for extra-terrestrial intelligence and life here on Earth (you might need to turn the volume up to hear effectively).

Image found here.

A Pictorial Thanksgiving

2010-11-29T07:21:00.000-08:00

{A classic holiday featuring one of my mother's many antique silver plates}

{The coolest candles I have ever spotted}

{What looks like a perfect pie later disintegrated into an apple crumble (must.perfect.piecrust)}

{A fashion note (my family doesn't understand iPhones so I had to take this one myself)}

{Our Christmas tree prepares for the ride of its life}

{Dork that I am, realized I have kept all seven Harry Potter movie tickets (I am not counting Part Two since I think this most recent movie should have just been four hours - I would have watched it!!)}

P.S. I've been feeling like there's so much to say but no words or oomph to express my thoughts (Julia, I totally get what you mean). Perhaps soon. Hope you all had a lovely holiday!

Grateful

2010-11-24T13:03:00.000-08:00

I am so grateful for all the people in my life. My sweet little family. Friends who have known me for years and continue to offer me such love and support. And kindred spirits who I have found through blogging. You all mean the world to me! I hope that you and your loved ones have a warm, cozy Thanksgiving holiday filled with delicious food and soul-reviving cheer! Much love to you all!

Low Tide

2010-11-23T16:16:00.000-08:00

A low tide in Harpswell, Maine on a fog-filled November afternoon. I love how these tiny islands, small clumps of firs, seem connected to the mainland. A few hours from now, they will be earthen oases once more as this little inlet fills with the dark, briny waters of the Atlantic.

Blog Must-Reads: My Suitcase Heart + ...like a rolling stone

2010-11-22T14:07:00.000-08:00

{One of dani's stunning cards from her shop}

One of the most rewarding things about blogging is encountering true kindred spirits! Two of my favorite blogs are janis' my suitcase heart and dani's ...like a rolling stone. And ironically, both are good friends in real life! janis uses gorgeous photographs to depict her charming life: her jolly adventures, sweet boyfriend, and adorable family. dani records her intelligent, soulful musings and photographs from her world travels. dani also has a delightful card shop, dani press that features original photographs and spot-on sentiments.

I recently won some of dani's artful cards from a giveaway on janis' blog, which gave me such glee! I was so joyful when the little package arrived from dani last week! Part of me wants to share the meaningful cards with close friends and part of me wants to frame them for my own! Either way, they are lovely and I highly recommend you frequent dani's shop as well as her and janis' blogs!

{A wee package arrives!}

Light, Free

2010-11-19T10:56:00.000-08:00

My goal is to be the type of person that Rita Hayworth appears to be in this picture with Fred Astaire. Happy, light, free. That is my goal for the weekend. Every moment I will be conscious towards this effort of being light, oh-so-light.

May your weekend be light and free!

Image found here.

Blue Valentine

2010-11-18T12:54:00.000-08:00

I really want to see this movie. Not only because of Ryan Gosling (but of course!), but because it is supposed to be an ardent cinematic depiction of a couple, the progression of their relationship, both good and bad. It's looks raw and intense (especially with its production company currently petitioning a NC-17 rating, which could kill its Oscar chances and broad release in theaters). I love this kind of a fierce movie-making. Films that make you cry and grip your chest in the sorrow and emotion of it all. Of course, most things make me cry these days. Strange, the courses our characters take, non?

Here's hoping they get the film to a R-rating. Regardless, I can't wait to see it!

Cutest trailer with Ryan singing and Michelle Williams tap dancing!

Image found here.

Morning Sky

2010-11-18T07:56:00.000-08:00

I've been rising early every day for a run. To awaken my mind and body, both of which have become quite slovenly of late. This is the view that greets me once I finished running up a long hill (Brunswick's version of Heartbreak Hill) and it is so satisfying to see the open November sky, filled with stunning clouds and morning light. Clusters of sheep mosy around damp fields, their wool greyed and spotted with clumps of mud. The air is fresh, the scene is natural.

A Harry Potter Giggle

2010-11-17T11:29:00.000-08:00

I am beyond excited to see Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 this weekend! I have been a fan of the series, books and movies, since I first picked up the Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone in the ninth grade. I started reading the books because all the extra credit questions on my physics exams were about the Harry Potter books. And between you and me, I needed all the extra credit I could get! What started as a practical reading activity soon became a delightful journey into J.K. Rowling's ingenious world.

The video above is from BuzzSugar, featuring all the awkward moments in the Harry Potter movies. Hilarious!

Royal Blue

2010-11-16T18:59:00.000-08:00

So I couldn't help but write a post pertaining to the story of the day. Yes, I know the photo above is EVERYWHERE.

However, I wanted to comment quickly and solely on the STUNNING blue Issa wrap dress that Kate Middleton wore to announce her engagement to Britain's Prince William. And yes, if you have $500, you can purchase a similar one in plum here. I love its lines and silky sheen. So charming.

Seeing the many pictures of Ms. Middleton today reminded me of a style note of which I want to be more conscious: CLASS. She is elegant in her fashion and classic with hints of modernity. Perfect really for her new role as princess-to-be.

Image source: The Guardian

Scent's Memory

2010-11-12T09:04:00.000-08:00

Do you ever smell a scent and are instantly transported to another time in your life? I decided to spritz some Hawaiian Ruby Guava by Pacifica Perfume this morning and I was taken back to last year this time when I was in such a different place, planning to go to law school, traveling a ton, seeing my first Broadway show, and catching a glimpse of a dashing gentleman or two. I was still working at my first job out of college and planning my vacation time around the holidays. This year, life feels so different and yet, I love how this scent brings me back to a former time where I can remember times when the world was very kind.

Wishing everyone a happy weekend! I am recharging my spirit by taking a trip to Boston to visit my amazing friends!! I cannot wait for soul-reviving conversations to commence!

Image found here.

Latte Gratitude

2010-11-09T07:27:00.000-08:00

Today, I am thankful for lattes designed with pretty patterns. I am also thankful for the resources to have such a soul-warming drink. And I am also thankful for my wonderful friends and family. They inspire me to be at my best even when I feel at my worst and that is true love. May you consume delicious, heart-inspiring lattes today, actual or metaphorical.

Source: ChelseaVictoria's Shop (image found here).

Send in the Clowns

2010-11-08T10:57:00.000-08:00

Over the weekend I saw the Bowdoin College production of Stephen Sondheim's musical play, A Little Night Music. I had never seen the play before and shortly fell in love with the unbalanced, romantic, lavish frivolity of Sondheim's score and use of plot from Ingmar Bergman's 1955 film, Smiles of Summer.

The score is in 3/4 time and quite jovial for one's ears. At the center of the plot, the actress Desiree Armfeldt must choose between two lovers during a weekend in the Swedish countryside, where both lovers bring their families to stay at Desiree's mother, Madame Armfeldt's, house. The show is currently running on Broadway (the picture above is the initial cast that included the incomparable Angela Lansbury as Madame Armfeldt and Catharine Zeta-Jones as Desiree).

Much of the music has a waltz theme to it, which I just adore. I believe I was born in the wrong time - I could happily spend my days dressed in resplendent Victorian gowns and attending balls where dancing the waltz with a well-suited, dashing young man is in vogue.

Despite my enjoyment, the play did bring tears to my eyes, especially the rendition of that famous song, "Send in the Clowns," which Desiree sings toward the end as she contemplates on the ramifications of her life choices, somewhat lamenting her lonely, indecisive state. I saw parts of myself in her character at that juncture. I wasn't the only one to be so moved as a New York Times writer expressed his emotion over Sondheim's plays in yesterday's paper.

The Bowdoin kids did a splendid job putting on the play and it made me wish I had done theater in school. Perhaps, once I settle into the next stage of my life, I will find a playhouse that allows members of the community to audition. I would so love to play Desiree or maybe Julie from Showboat or Laurie from Oklahoma!

Source: Broadway.com (image found here).

I Want A Man To Look At Me Like That

2010-11-04T15:56:00.001-07:00

Okay. So. My motivation level has plummeted this week and inspiration for blogging is void. However, I did watch Woody Allen's latest film, Whatever Works. Very amusing film, typical Allen. Warning, though: Evan Rachel Wood's Southern accent is annoying. The highlight for me was that I fell in that hopeless kind of fake love (that one tends to have for movie stars and fictional characters) for British actor, Henry Cavill, who plays a dashing British gentleman in the film. He is so handsome with an intensely charismatic, warm manner. Of course, then I discovered that the first three seasons of The Tudors lives on Netflix Instant (Cavill plays Henry VIII's best friend, Charles Brandon)...the rest is history. Productivity is completely kaput this week. But what a way for it to go...

Image found here.

Bleak House + Halloween

2010-11-01T07:52:00.000-07:00

I wish that time didn't scare me so much these days. Lately, I feel myself caught in a zero gravity field. No forward motion despite my anxious kicking. Try as I may, I have not found that good position I had hoped to procure. I knew it would be tough in this economy, but I have had several leads (made through networking) that have all sort of halted just shy of coming through. I cannot help but retain glimmers of hope because that's who my eternally optimistic mother raised me to be. But it still feels Bleak House right now. Not unlike the overcast scene above, which is a salt marsh about a five minute bike ride from my parent's house. On this particular late October day, I find the scene to be emblematic of my mood - cool, deep hues of dark colors that bespeak a certain wonder at the fate of it all.

However, doom and gloom is not all that we have on the menu today. Thank goodness for that ghoulish holiday, Halloween, where I allowed myself a respite from my woes to dress up in costume, bake up a storm in the form of these delicious chocolate carmel apples, and delight in the warm glow of orange lights amidst bronze leaves. Hope that you and yours enjoyed this delightful autumn holiday!

The Weekly Marginalian (Ep V: Less Movies, More Moving and Reading!)

2010-10-22T10:04:00.000-07:00

I just watched the film version of the Tennessee William's play The Glass Menagerie. And it sparked in me the idea of how sick I am of watching television. Sitting with a vacant stare in front of the telly. So, I have been reading up a storm this week and just finished One Day b

Image found here.

Simple Views

2010-10-15T11:21:00.000-07:00

I sat at my little desk this morning to think of ideas for The Weekly Marginalian and could not conjure topics worthy of discussion. So, instead I offer a picture taken (and edited using the iPhone TiltShift application) during a drive through New Hampshire last weekend, seeing the pretty fall colors and the cascading valleys and mountain passes near Mount Washington. See how the billowing clouds cling to the mountain tops? The landscape felt so fresh, pure, and sparse in its makeup. I loved it.

This week, though short, feels worn like an ancient leather satchel passed down through generations. That elusive next step is still hiding in the wings. The new leaf yet to be turned. But, I am blessed and I intend to enjoy this cozy fall weekend. I hope you all do, as well!

Happy Days

2010-10-13T15:53:00.000-07:00

I am sure that many people experienced the glory that was the latest Glee episode, "Duets." The show is so surprising because it can be offtrack (no more theme episodes, please) and then all of the sudden turn up a slam dunk like the past two episodes, "Grilled Cheezus" and "Duets." What makes them so inspiring and endearingly watchable is that Glee has become an important television show in terms of its message that it is okay to sing your heart out and praise who you are (read: follow your passions). Most people watch television and relate to what happens on the screen, so why not have a show to which kids and individuals struggling with their identity can relate?

As Entertainment Weekly's Tim Stack said, Kurt is the most important character on television right now because people can see him struggling against the prejudice and overcoming the bigotry and ignorance the sadly exists in our culture. Bullying is a huge topic in our national debate right now and rightly so. As a fellow victim of bullying, I know what it's like to feel completely wrong and worthless due to peer taunting. So I applaud the writers of Glee for taking on the topic of bullying and showing the triumphant resilience of Kurt (and to a lesser extent, the other characters in New Directions).

The good news is that darker times lead to light and when in the light, one appreciates it all the more for the knowledge of the dark. I must admit to tearing up with the last duet of the recent episode - the cover of Barbra Streisand and Judy Garland's rendition of Get Happy/Happy Days Are Here Again. I could not find the Glee version to post, but I did locate the original, which is pretty darn good. If you are struggling, happy days are around the corner, my friends. Take heart.