Monica And The City

New Year...New URL

2009-01-04T21:14:00.002-05:00

My amazing year full of adventures, 2008, has ended.

I decided to change my blog web address one more time.

It is http://moniandthecity.blogspot.com/.

Thank you to EVERYONE for all your love, support and prayers in my move to New York.

First Christmas Away From Home

2008-12-25T18:02:00.003-05:00

I didn't go back to Texas for Christmas. I thought I would be ok and was most of the time but I did get emotional a couple days ago. My spirits were lifted once I arrived to the UWS to p33b....where my bff clan lives.

Also! I a puppysitting Madison, my good friend Pegah's doggie. He is a cutie pie and soooo good. He's very easy to take care of and everyone here loves him. Plus, Mari and Nick are dog lovers like me so we are loving on Madison big time. I feel bad cuz Pegah is going to pick him up on Sunday and he might be a little spoiled. Oops... He's been playing with 6 people for 2 days! That's a lot of attention. Sorry Pegah :-/

We (Mari, Carolina, Nick, Neil, Krista and Nira) did secret santa and I received a very nice gift of Victoria's Secret perfumes from Nira, Neil's little sister. On the 23rd I received a very sweet card from my parents and sister and leo with a very generous amount of Best Buy gift cards to purchase a tv. I'm just debating on purchasing a tv because I spend a lot of time at Carlos's so I'll feel bad if my new flat screen is just sitting alone on Staten Island.

So I'm thinking of other cool gifts.....

the Wii - very cool for obvious reasons but has cons..... I will have to pay a little extra after using the gift cards; I will spend more money when purchasing games, especially Rock Band (which I'm dying for); I may lose my social life as I might get addicted. Haha
the George Foreman 360 - awesome for cooking and I'm cooking more now and want to cook even more in 2009 and so on
a slow cooker - same reasons as grill
a food processor - same reasons as grill
and I can buy the last 3 items with my gift cards!

I know...sounds domestic. :-/

Anywho....

Merry Christmas!

I love you mom and dad! And Cathy, Leo, Noah, Ava, and Leila!

10 Month Anniversary

2008-12-18T08:58:00.002-05:00

Yesterday, the 17th of December was my ten-month anniversary living in New York. It is so hard to believe! Time flies when you're having fun.

I am getting used to living here and forget sometimes that I live in the best city in the United States. I sometimes don't notice the Statue of Liberty or realize I'm walking by the most famous street that has been a part of the economy downfall, Wall Street....I no longer think it's cool that I am walking down to the subway or 'surfacing'. BUT when I am watching tv shows like Dirty Sexy Money I think I am so awesome for recognizing NY locations or even better, thinking ' I was just there!'

So, ten months and still living on Staten Island. Will I be moving into the city soon? Probably not because I have some large financial goals for the next 2 years. I've become more patient with the ferry.....ok, I haven't really but I do want to prioritize these financial goals.

Only 2 months left for a year!

First date and I knew my dating spree was over...

2008-12-17T11:57:00.007-05:00

In the beginning of September two things happened; 1) a best friend, Winnie got married (great great wedding) and 2) the spring romance had ended (for the better because for the obvious reasons)..... So I thought and discussed with my love guru, my sister, Cathy what should a girl do?

Actively date! So i joined Eharmony. LOL. I don't mean to laugh but I do every time I think of it just because it is different but still a very normal thing to do in this day (online dating that is). I debated it of course because of the way online dating looks. Some might think it's dangerous or desperate or like you're trying too hard. I have never thought those things because, well, maybe because I'm young and I know people who have tried it; not necessarily have succeeded in it, but have tried it.

And I thought how is it more dangerous than meeting someone at a bar or at work and going out after? Just because you kind of know them? No. And I thought if anything, I will get my money back tenfold because I will get free drinks and dinners. LOL....so bad.... but the truth. Ha! So I did some research and figured the more expensive online dating site would be best because...umm....I have reasons but they'll sound stupid so I'll leave you guessing.

Eharmony was fun. I went on many dates with very nice guys and always had a good time. These guys and I had a lot in common so we had things to talk about. And I was having fun going on dates because of the good conversations and free drinks and dinner. Again, ha!

Oh! And I was being as safe as possible. My sister and Mari knew about every date (locations, time, what I was wearing, etc). Plus Cathy had my login info so she could see pictures.

Who did I go on dates with? Social worker, attorneys, architect, teacher, movie producer, and other occupations. THEN I had a date with a real estate broker, Carlos.

I was very excited about this date because I had already felt a nice chemistry with him over emails. I really liked his profile and our guided communication. I liked his pictures too :-) And Mari was even excited for this date. (She and I would look at the profiles of my matches).

We had our first date at the House in Gramercy Park. He walked in and I thought 'great'. Then we had a wonderful time. He's funny; very funny. We had great chemistry; no one would have guessed it was our first date. I didn't want the date to end.

Second date was a week later. Third date was 2 days later after the second. Fourth date was the next day. And for the first 3-4 weeks we saw each other every other day. And for the last month it's been almost everyday. I know....rushing into it? Maybe. But we're not tired of each other and still want more time. Haha....all cheesy.

What is our status? We're exclusive. It surprised us both. We both signed up for Eharmony around the same time and didn't think this would happen. We have no complaints though :-)

What I love about Carlos and our relationship.... We have A LOT of fun - all the time. The fun never stops and that's because we both have a lot of energy and are goofballs. I can be my absolute true colors with him. I mean - I am silly and if I were this silly in front of people, including most friends and family, they'd think I was weird. But not Carlos. He likes it and laughs. On a serious side he's sweet, ambitious, affectionate, has a lot of friends, loves his family and has a strong relationship with them, has a good career, is amazingly talented in playing the guitar, and much much more.... And he's so good to me.

My parents met him during their visit and they liked him. So yay! It's very important to me that my parents, family and friends like the guy who I have fallen for. AND I have met his parents just this past weekend. They are in the states for a month; they live in Peru. I was so nervous I wanted to vomit. haha...which is weird because I never get THAT nervous. We were walking around the city and I was all shy but as soon I was alone with them I was fine. I think I was nervous because of Carlos which is weird. I liked his parents for many reasons but my favorite reason is that they hold hands or have locked arms when walking, just like my parents. That is SO nice.

OK, ending this posting with these pictures of Carlos and I.

Below...my goofball boyfriend that I adore.

My Parents Visited!

2008-12-02T21:47:00.007-05:00

My parents visited for Thanksgiving and it was GREAT. I was homesick for them so having them here was so wonderful and I knew I would be sad when they left but I surprised myself by crying like a baby. Haha.... We went all over NYC and when Sunday evening came around we were exhausted.

My favorite part of the visit was the personalized tour my dad gave me of his and mom's NYC. They showed me where they first arrived when they got here from Colombia (separately), where they lived as singles, where they lived once married, where my mom told my dad where she was pregnant. It was great. We laughed a lot that day!

We had dinner that first night at Lombardi's, the first licensed pizzeria in the nation or maybe just in NYC, I can't remember. Either way the pizza is yummy! And my parents met Pandora. WHOA. Big deal. Parents met the guy I am dating. It was a success!

As I am unemployed I decided to try to say yes to my parents when they wanted to buy me something. Hahaha.... I got many early Christmas presents...the brown boots I wanted, new NIkes for working out, some sweaters, new jersey bedsheets, and grocery shopping. My parents are thoughtful and generous. I am a very lucky girl :-)

We went to Queens and saw some of my parents friends that they haven't seen in 25 years! I met my mom's best friend and I couldn't believe it. They hugged like crazy bears and then we sat down and they began talking. Like no time had passed. So incredible how people share special relationships and love and can pick up from practically nothing.

We also saw my dad's family. I've been seeing them since last year when I visited NYC but my parents have not seen them in 25 years or so. Crazy I know. Don't ask me how so many years passed.

It was sooo nice to see my parents and I miss them terribly. When they were leaving I kept hugging them and crying. I then walked back into my studio and cried until I fell back sleep. And when I woke up I was all happy to have my privacy again. Hahah. I danced around while getting ready. I miss my parents but getting my space back was nice. Hopefully one day when they visit I will have a larger apartment.

Which reminds me....they loved my little studio and landlords. They hated the ferry. They thought it was clean and was impressed with the security and flow of the schedule BUT they said Monica, move into the city asap please. I agreed.

Here are some pictures of the great visit.

THANK YOU MAMI Y PAPI!!!! I love you and miss you!

Times Square on Friday, after Thanksgiving

On the Upper West Side. This is where my dad held my mom's hand for the first time when they were dating. Aww....

In Queens on Saturday. This is the neighborhood, Sunnyside, where my parents lived once they were married.

On Friday at Rockefeller Center.

The Upper West Side. The building driectly behind the street pole is where my mom lived with roommates and my dad lived in a 1-bedroom.

First stop in Manhattan. My work building.

My parents on the Staten Island Ferry. The Statue of Liberty is right behind them.

My dad's family. Thanksgiving.

The stoop of the building where my parents lived separately.

Umm....

2008-11-18T09:31:00.003-05:00

I just sat here for 3 minutes trying to think of an appropriate title for this posting and gave up. I'm in a weird stage of mixed emotions right now. I'm happy, concerned, trusting, worried, positive, realistic......I go from thinking "Egh....everything will be fine. Even if I'm only eating oatmeal and frijoles y arroz and never going out," to "Noooo!!! I want to go out and eat more than dry foods ."

I'm still working - thank God - but am job searching. I made a new goal yesterday to apply to 10 jobs a day. I'd prefer to apply/interview for jobs that I am passionate for (development and fundraising)but I will apply to corporate jobs and other opportunities I can picture myself in.

On Thursday I'm going to a graduate programs fair at CUNY (The City University of New York). That's another option, to go back to school to finally get my master's. What do I want to study? I have no idea. Well I know what I love but I'm not sure what I should study.

I am also looking into gyms. I figure that I can be unemployed, broke and chubby OR unemployed, broke and in shape. I'd rather go for the latter.

It's crazy to think I have no idea how 2009 will be. How long will I be unemployed? Will I be working part-time? Will I be in school? Will I be single or in a relationship? Will I be in shape for working out or thin because of eating less and not drinking so much alcohol (from being broke)?

2008 was/is crazy and very different. This year's events....

January: Ran my first marathon. 26 miles on my 26th birthday
February: Moved to New York, a life dream of mine.
March: My full-time job was searching for a full-time job. Had a lot of alone time and was able to self-reflect.
April: Broke up with my serious boyfriend of almost 3 years. AND started an accidental spring romance. Began working at my first corporate job.
May: Went to Houston and realized even more how happy I was to move.
June: Fun, fun, fun! Party, party, party! With my friends. And trip to London.
July: Fun, fun, fun! Party, party, party! Trip to Vermont to visit best friend and later to Playa de Carmen with family.
August: Kept partying and shopping....ok not an exciting month.
September: 2 best friends got married. I went to Houston for a wedding and realized again, how happy I am that I moved. Accidental spring (to fall) romance ended. End of month went on first date with Pandora.
October: Lots of dates with Pandora. Another accidental. Got news of being laid off along with 7,000 people. Volunteered like a crazy for Obama campaign and got Obamanitis.
November: Historic presidential election and the hard work of thousands of volunteers paid off when we elected Obama as president. (Praise God!) More pandora in my life and me gusta. Parents are visiting for Thanksgiving! Celebrated best friend's birthday and it was the last time I will go out-out until New Year's.
December: TBD

So basically, 2008 really was "un ano de aventuras" / "a year of adventures". I did a lot of self-reflection and falling in and out love/romances with guys. Haha.... Awww...to be 26. I'm just so happy because when I'm 60 I will look back at my 20's and smile.

Phase of bad luck

2008-11-12T09:41:00.003-05:00

I am in a phase of bad luck and I hope it ends soon. I'm not complaining just writing about it. It will end sooner or later so I'm fine with it.

I was laid off, therefore...
I am job searching and I hate job searching especially that...
My laptop is messed up and needs to go to computer doctor so I cannot job search or apply while at home.
I like to dance around my studio and that usually helps with stress but my Ipod suddenly stopped working so I have no music to dance to and like my laptop is broken I can't get on my Itunes.
I have a very bad sinus infection!
My work has suddenly restricted Pandora.com!!!! Now i can't jam while working

But then I think of a few things and I feel so much better.

I have sinus infection but I have great health overall. Thank you God.
I was laid off but I have a college degree, am outgoing, and my resume is pretty good so hopefully I can score a interview somewhere. Thank you God.
My laptop is broken but the library is 2 blocks from my studio. Thank you God.
I have no music but my Pandora plays guitar. Haha. Thank you God.
I am a little homesick but my parents will be here in 2 weeks. Thank you God.
I have a sinus infection but I have tissues, nasonex, and a neti pot. Thank you God.
I have college & credit card debt but I have the tools to help get through it. Thank you God.
I have no pandora.com but I have Florencia to g-chat with alllll day off and on and we've been having great conversations. Thank you God.
and all in all, my life is filled with blessings, so THANK YOU GOD.

I have Obamanitis...

2008-11-05T10:48:00.004-05:00

and it's ok because all the hard work paid off! The PA trip was good except for Pegah and I being tired and exhausted from going to bed late and waking up early. We went door-to-door to registered Democrats and found some McCain supporters along the way. We got back into the city by 8pm and I was done for the day.

Pandora met me at the bus and went home with me to have a quiet relaxing Saturday night. We watched SNL knowing that McCain would be on it (and his skit was funny). It was weird to see Tina Fey as Sara Palin right next to him. The resemblance is crazy scary.

Sunday I went to Queens for a "new" cousin's birthday party and had a nice time with the family. I saw my aunt, my dad's sister, and she acted like she didn't know me and said "mucho gusto". WTF. That's a whole other story and I might bring it up later.

Monday morning I did not go into work and went to an Obama Phone Bank Office in Staten Island. I was the site supervisor and enjoyed my long day of 8:30 AM to 9:00 PM. I met great volunteers/supporters who were just as passionate or more. I found it pretty incredible how we shared thoughts and opinions about Obama, politics, and the U.S.

It made me think of my friends who are Republicans. I thought of this one couple that I love dearly (them and their children). We have a nice time together, have shared personal stories, etc but we are completely polar opposites when it comes down to politics. I think it's nice that we can go beyond those strong feelings and opinions.

So....YAY!!!!!!!!!!!! Barack Obama is our next president!!! Praise God!!!!

I was overwhelmed when CNN announced it. I was exhausted from volunteering and decided to stay home that evening to watch the election coverage. Pandora came over and we had dinner, ice cream for dessert and watched CNN all evening. I thought I would cry all over the place but I didn't. I had a few tears only. I was overwhelmed with happiness, relief and it felt so good to have the anxiety and nervousness float away. I slept so well that night.

I am an Obama supporter because I believe in him. I believe he will be an amazing president and lead our country to some beautiful changes. It's a plus that he's a black man and that America will have its first African American family move into the "White" House in January.

I am so excited to see the kind of first lady Michelle Obama will be. She's going to be the Jackie O for my generation. I can't wait to see Malia turn into a young lady and Sasha turn into a teen.

Obama, as every president, will have rough times and make some mistakes (I'm sure minimal though) but he will be amazing. He's already changed America by being an inspiration to millions and millions of people.

I am so happy that I volunteered and put in hours to help get Obama elected. I get to tell my children and my grandchildren that I was a part of this historic election. I get to show them the publications I collected. It's amazing and awesome!

OBAMANOS!

Awesome Moment in 2008

2008-10-30T23:01:00.003-04:00

I look awful in the video. It was a long day. In the office by 8:15 this morning, left at 5, arrived at the Obama campaign office by 5:30, got home now at 10:35. Long day - but totally awesome!

When I checked the video after recording it, it was working well. I think now it's a messed up. So sorry if my lips moving does not match my voice. Haha

Bad News, Good News, Cool News

2008-10-30T12:03:00.002-04:00

Bad News: I was laid off. Well, kind of was and kind of wasn't. I'm a contractor at a BIG credit card company so my contract was "ending" in December. But because I'm doing real well here my contract would have been extended if it wasn't for the crappy-about-to-be-the-next-great-depression-Bush-economy. So in January I will no longer have a job :-( I have started looking and if push comes to shove I will find a crappy job somewhere.

Good News: I know I'll be fine because I trust God. God is Great and He will get me through this. I don't know if that means I will find a job but I'll be fine. I do find myself very very lucky that my rent is only $800 (good 'ol Staten Island...haha...see! thank goodness i never moved into the city!)...lucky for not having a mortgage or children that I have to feed. I only have to take care of myself! And if that means no shopping, no wine, eat only cereal and frijoles y arroz - then that's that. Plus, I started counting my calories to lose a few pounds so now that I can't spend money I might get thinner!

Cool News: I've been volunteering this week at the Obama NYC Headquarters office and was made a team captain after one shift. Cool. This Saturday I will be going to Allentown, Pennsylvania with Latinos for Obama for a day trip to go door-to-door. Pegah is going with me. Then I'm taking off work on Monday and Tuesday to be a team captain at the Obama campaign office on Staten Island. So cool!

All in all, how am I doing? I'm Obamanistic!!!!

OBAMANOS!!!!

Live Music Weekend

2008-10-27T22:33:00.005-04:00

I had a fun and exciting Live Music weekend.....3 nights of live music! How cool is that?

Friday - Went to brooklyn with friends to this event called Cinema 16. This event shows short films, muted, while musicians play live music. It was great and I really enjoyed it. The short films were very "Tim Burton" like but creepier. It was cool.

Mari, the debut of Pandora (heehee), Jackie (a new friend who is real cool), and Krista

Saturday - We went to The Blue Note, a famous jazz club here in NYC. We went to see a jazz band from Boston and they were also great. It had been a very long time since I saw jazz live. The band put on a fantastic show. They were jammin hard core and I can't wait to go back again.

Sunday - I went to the Coldplay concert with Sandra, Hieu and Adrienne. Lots of fun!!! I was told their shows were awesome and yes, it was. They sounded just as good as the c.d. and I was blown away by their incredible talent.

I also had brunch in Brooklyn with Winnie, Andrew, Carolina and Neil. Winnie and Andrew are moving to Texas on Thursday :-( So we had brunch at their favorite place and then hung out at their adorable apartment after. I wish them the best but selfishly sad to say bye.

it's about race, don't kid yourself!

2008-10-27T10:37:00.002-04:00

A primer on racism sent along by Chuck Granger.

Obama/Biden vs McCain/Palin, what if things were switched around?....thinkabout it. Would the country's collective point of view be different? Could racism be the culprit?

Ponder the following:

What if the Obamas had paraded five children across the stage, including athree month old infant and an unwed, pregnant teenage daughter?
What if John McCain was a former president of the Harvard Law Review?
What if Barack Obama finished fifth from the bottom of his graduating class?
What if McCain had only married once, and Obama was a divorcee?
What if Obama was the candidate who left his first wife after a severedisfiguring car accident, when she no longer measured up to his standards?
What if Obama had met his second wife in a bar and had a long affair while he was still married?
What if Michelle Obama was the wife who not only became addicted topainkillers but also acquired them illegally through her charitableorganization?
What if Cindy McCain graduated from Harvard?
What if Obama had been a member of the Keating Five? (The Keating Five werefive United States Senators accused of corruption in 1989, igniting a majorpolitical scandal as part of the larger Savings and Loan crisis of the late1980s and early 1990s.)
What if McCain was a charismatic, eloquent speaker?
What if Obama couldn't read from a teleprompter?
What if Obama was the one who had military experience that includeddiscipline problems and a record of crashing planes?
What if Obama was the one who was known to display publicly, on many
occasions, a serious anger management problem?
What if Michelle Obama's family had made their money from beerdistribution?
You could easily add to this list.
If these questions reflected reality, do you really believe the electionnumbers would be as close as they are?
This is what racism does. It covers up, rationalizes and minimizes positivequalities in one candidate and emphasizes negative qualities in another whenthere is a color difference.

Educational Background:
Barack Obama: Columbia University - B.A. Political Science with aSpecialization in International Relations. Harvard - Juris Doctor (J.D.) MagnaCum Laude
Joseph Biden: University of Delaware - B.A. in History and B.A. in PoliticalScience. Syracuse University College of Law - Juris Doctor (J.D.)

vs.

John McCain: United States Naval Academy - Class rank: 894 of 899

Sarah Palin: Hawaii Pacific University - 1 semester North Idaho College - 2semesters - general study University of Idaho - 2 semesters -journalismMatanuska-Susitna College - 1 semester University of Idaho - 3 semesters - B.A.in Journalism

Education isn't everything, but this is about the two highest offices inthe land as well as our standing in the world.

You make the call.

Philly

2008-10-21T12:12:00.008-04:00

The City of Brotherly Love...

This past weekend I went to Philadelphia to hang out with newlyweds, Florencia and Sami. I arrived Friday afternoon after riding Amtrak for only an hour and 15 minutes. How cool is that? I need to take advantage of living up here in NY and go to all these other great American cities.

We walked and walked Friday afternoon and I kept saying "Aww! It's so pretty!" I then said it resembled London and duh, Philly was modeled after London - so there you go. The leaves were already changing and it was beautiful. We went to the art museum where Rocky ran up the steps. I had tall shoes on so I didn't run up the stairs...boooo to that. We went to the famous LOVE statue and took pictures with all these giant game pieces of bingo, dominos, and monopoly. That was a lot of fun!

Saturday was spent with Sami's family and that was real nice. I've been homesick for my parents, sister, leo, and the kids so being around Sami and Flo's family was a nice substitute.

The city was filled with support for Obama and I loved it. Signs/posters all over the place! This one right above was a painting - so nice huh? On Sunday there was a walk for Breast Cancer and the city dyed the waterfall pink - very cool.

Sunday I came back to city and quickly went in and out of my studio to go to Brookyln to have dinner with the crew and Winnie. Sidenote: Winnie and Andrew are leaving NYC and moving to Texas for a job opportunity. I'm so sad :-( So we went for drinks and dinner and somehow the crew and I ended up at Pandora's place.....haha.

Once you go musician - you'll never go back

2008-10-14T14:39:00.002-04:00

Well, I'm not so sure about that but I do know going musician is pretty damn great. I'm dating a guy who is a musician. Not a musician as in playing gigs on the weekends or just plays for a hobby...I guess he's in between. He has a real job (real estate broker; bonus points for him because he can find me an apartment..heehee) and he has a bachelors and masters in music - classical guitar. So it's more than a hobby, it's his passion and it is obvious when he plays.

So I'm in trouble. That's what I thought when he played for the first time for me. He did say he normally does not play for "the ladies" but he performed rather quickly. Maybe my smile? Haha...kidding! Maybe he was just feeding me a line but I'll act like he wasn't.

So I have been serenaded a few times now and yes, like I said earlier, I'm in trouble. He's a great guy, A LOT of fun, makes me laugh A LOT, we share many many interests and, I fall into a trance when he's playing the guitar. I can't get over how he situates himself when he sits and places his guitar on his lap; or how his face dramatically changes when he begins to play, or the way his hands and fingers are so smooth and quick.

My favorite date with him so far? It's a tie between 2.... one we went to Spanish tapas restaurant where they perform Flamenco and we stuffed ourselves with yummy food and 2 pitchers of Sangria - oops. and the other: "Wine, cheese, and 20 questions", what he named it, at his apartment..talked, drank wine, and I was serenaded. Actually, that might be my favorite because I felt like I was in a movie. It was the perfect romantic setting, with the city noise in the background, a view of union square....haha....ridiculous.

His nickname is Pandora. He introduced me to Pandora.com and I'm now obsessed with it. Not because he told me about it because it's a great website. It plays music with no interruptions and you create your own station from your favorite artists or music. Here are a few stations listed in my profile:

Jamiroquai
Jennifer Lopez
Counting Crows
Sheryl Crow
John Legend
Bebe
Mana
and my only song title station: Drop It Like Its Hot. lol...makes me laugh because it brings up memories from undergrad

I'm going to Philly this weekend to see a best friend of mine, Florencia and her husband, Sami. I'm so excited to them!!!!! And it's my first time going to Philly (I've only been to the airport).

And the deal with Pandora....we're just dating, having fun hanging out, I've cooked twice for him (weird huh?)......

LOL

2008-10-10T10:12:00.002-04:00

I tend to laugh out loud. Whether with friends or alone, walking or sitting on the crowded ferry. UsuaIly I think people don't really notice or care. But this morning on the ferry I kept laughing out loud and this woman would turn to look at me with a weird expression. It wasn't a nice one. It seemed like me laughing out loud bothered her. What a poor sad woman. So I prayed for her. That she will find some humor and/or happiness and stop being annoyed by strangers who are cheerful.

Exercised My Right to Vote

2008-10-07T09:27:00.006-04:00

I voted today! I requested an absentee ballot from the Great Conservative State of Texas, received it a few days ago and have mailed it in. I could have registered here in NY but I figured my liberal vote would count more in the state of conservatives than here in this state of liberals. Although, Staten Island, from what I have learned, is pretty conservative compared to the other boroughs and Manhattan.

I have nothing against Republicans and conservative thinkers. I have many friends and loved ones who are and I love them for who they are. I can't however understand...I just don't get it....how someone could vote for McCain/Palin. It makes no sense to me. NONE.

Tonight is the second presidential debate and I hope Barack is better than last time. He did disappoint me because he was waaaay too nice. To me, he should have raised his voice, interrupt McCain, not say McCain is right.....too too nice. I still think he won though. I'll be watching tonight with a friend of mine who's a cutie pie.

Putting issues to the side - just look at McCain! He's adorable for an old geezer. He can be my pastor or priest or professor...but not president. Bush looks more like a president! (Even though he has a dumb monkey look on his face.) Obama stands tall, fills out his suits, has great eye contact, has a great voice....he has the intriguing personality that the American President should naturally have.

Obamanos!

Apple Picking and Wine Tasting

2008-09-30T16:32:00.003-04:00

This past weekend we went to Warwick, New York to go apple picking and wine tasting. It was Paul's idea and we owe him for thinking of it and driving. It was him, me, Krista, Karyn, Carolina, Nick, and Neil. We took 2 cars and drove about 2 hours north into the mainland of New York state.

It was a cloudy day and we were expecting it to rain but we got lucky and did not. I, however, was not lucky because of my really bad allergies - so annoying! I took medicine but still had a runny nose allllll day long. The wine tasting was fun and of course I left the orchard with 6 bottles. I figure it will last me for awhile but we already drank one bottle on Sunday (while sitting outside on the balcony) and I drank a glass yesterday with my dinner. So, yeah, they won't last long - my bad.

The actual apple picking was fun. It was quiet and calm and we still had fun picking the apples, eating them, and drinking wine all at the same time. I really hope we go again. We should make it a fall tradition here in NY. It's funny because I never knew so many people would be interested in apple picking. I've told a few people at work or friends over email and everyone has kind of the same reaction - that they want or have always wanted to, etc. After apple picking we had lunch with some bottles of wine. Luckily for the non-drivers, our drivers, Paul and Karyn were just fine to drive (Paul drank some coffee and Karyn watched her drinking and didn't get woozy like me who slept the whole way back to the city..haha). No, but if you've ever taken a road trip with me you know I always sleep in the car.

That evening Carolina, Karyn, and I made apple pies! I was more of an assistant but Carolina keeps saying it was a team effort. They were DELICIOUS! We wonder if it was the bakers or the apples being super fresh (you can't get any fresher than picking it off the tree yourself, right?)

Here's the link to where we went. http://www.applewoodorchards.com/index.html

That night we watched the new Chris Rock stand-up. Oh Man!!! HILARIOUS!!!!!!!!!! I didn't want it to end!!! So funny - love that guy.

Our lunch!

I tried on Carolina and Karyn's engagement rings. Haha.

Yummy apple pies!

Yay...it's getting chilly

2008-09-25T12:00:00.000-04:00

The fall weather has arrived! And I am so happy! This will be the first fall season I have had in years. The fall/autumn seasons top existing in Houston sometime when I was in elementary. The last “real” fall season I can remember was when I was 6. We were living in Mission Bend and I remember riding my bike up and down our street, Hablo Drive. I had a light jacket on. I loved that jacket; it was a navy blue and corduroy.

I’ve always loved stepping on the fallen leaves and hear the crunch. We had a pecan tree in the front and I would gather the pecans for my dad and they were usually pretty good. We would climb that tree and one time Walter, my neighbor, climbed it and a branch broke and he fell with it. He was fine but I remember the look on his face. Haha…

Sure it can get cool in Houston but it is no longer for weeks or a couple of months. I think it was cold this last Thanksgiving and that was surprising. So I am very happy to have a fall season!

I have bought a new fall/early winter coat and a winter jacket. I’m happy with both purchases and they should keep me warm.

To be very honest, I wish I had a sweetheart to keep me warm with. Lol. I’m serious. I was thinking of that the other day when I was on the ferry. This week it has been chilly during my morning and evening commutes and I have not been prepared. (I finally wore my trench coat today and I found money in the pocket! Score!) Anyways, so on the ferry there was a girl, around my age, who was also not prepared but she had a sweetheart and he had his arms around her and rubbing the sides of her arms; her head was tucked between his shoulder and neck. I finally caught myself staring at them while shivering and snapped out of it. I need to get a hold of myself and stop hating on couples.

So that made me realize….dangit! Winter is coming and I am soooo concerned that I’ll be freezing. I wish I had someone to cuddle with during this winter. Oh well….I guess this winter it will be me and my down comforter :-)

I despise....

2008-09-17T12:36:00.004-04:00

McCain and Palin. I automatically roll my eyes when I see them anywhere in the media. The wrinkles between my eyes come out of nowhere instantly. A grossed out look on my face just happens. If January 20 comes around and it's not Obama and Biden on that stage I'm off to Colombia or Spain for a few weeks. Well maybe not, because all those people will just want to talk about how stupid Americans are to vote for Bush Part 2.

UGH!

One more thing...have you seen the SNL skit of Palin and Clinton? HILARIOUS!
http://www.hulu.com/watch/34465/saturday-night-live-palin--hillary-open

It's worth watching!!! And, yes, they make fun of both.

A Best Friend's Wedding

2008-09-15T17:09:00.008-04:00

Sorry for the absence in updating my blog. I received a few emails of friends complaining and of course that made me feel special...awww.

Winnie, my college roommate/best friend got married to Andrew Ross in Sugar Land, Texas on September the 6th. It was a GREAT and BEAUTIFUL wedding. Us singles thought how in the world are we supposed to follow that? Winnie was gorgeous, she looked like royalty and Andrew was so handsome and wore his tuxedo with such class (until the Lollipop song came on at the reception).

The bridesmaids dresses were a huge hit! We all looked pretty and were happy in our dresses. Carlene and I got our make-up airbrushed and loved it. Mine was done at 11 AM and at 2:30 AM when I got home, it was still on. And you know I danced at the reception

I have posted some of my own pictures but I recommend going to this link: http://akilbennett.net/showitslideshows/winnieandrew/ It is the link to the photographer's pictures. Akil was amazing!!!!! Oh my! Have a special event? Call him! You'll see why when you watch the slideshow. It will only take a few minutes.

Rehearsal dinner then day of the wedding.

another list

2008-08-26T15:46:00.001-04:00

another best friend of mine gave me her list of subjects/topics that make her think of old flames.

valencia, spain
HEB stores
babas---i know you guys got that from me!
chocolate milk
spiros
el salvador
men's soccer
ice skating
the song "cosas del amor" from pegasso
my aldo boots
silver two door honda civics
spaghetti
san antonio
fraternities
peach lotion scent
dove body wash scent
downy smell
kobe bryant
don julio tequila
song ex factor from lauryn hill
the cities chicago and milwaukee
miller beer
gin and tonics
"i need a girl" from p diddy
simkins dorm at UT

no texas for me

2008-08-15T20:30:00.003-04:00

haha...my face

Random thoughts....

2008-08-14T15:48:00.005-04:00

While being very productive today I chatted with Jenny for a bit. I told her how I love my job a whole lot except for one thing - that the word London is all around me....I hear people say it, it's in emails, it's on the company website, etc. So I think of my complicado. And thoughts of him are nice but I can't actively think of him aaaallllll the time.

So I thought of a fun and amusing activity for Jenny and I to do over g-chat. What are some words/subjects that make you think of a current, an ex-boyfriend or past crush. I will not give the names of those lucky men but here are the very random subjects.... this is a mixture between Jenny and I.

the usher song "nice n slow"
dave mathews band
nigeria
trees decorated with christmas lights
vermont
kobe bryant
the saying "if a woman unlocks the driver's door while you're walking around to it - is a keeper" or whatever it says
michael phelps
the act of stalking
the movie Habla Con Ella
Silverados
ground turkey meat
the word "creamy" (this is not in a dirty way I promise)
beagles
WWF
the cologne, Curve
the smell of cucumber melon
the Denver Broncos
cigars
the movie Parenthood
lily pads
any Olympic swimming event
Armani Exchange
Honda Del Sols
double baked potatos
London
cholos
Pointe South in Austin
skaters
College Park
the word "babas"
Build-A-Bear
Subway
the club Spiro's in Austin
the club Spy in Houston
Dos Caminos, a restaurant, in NYC
buddy passes (airline tickets)
La Cenicienta (reality show on Telemundo a few years ago)

If only I could share the details. We were cracking up and had tears. It would be great to share this list with friends - I can't even imagine the random subjects.

Monday Morning Minute from my friend Barry

2008-08-11T15:37:00.001-04:00

08.11.08

Action!

Action is the difference between an idea and results. No idea, thought, concept or plan goes anywhere without action. Lots of people have great ideas; few people take the actions steps required to turn ideas into results. You know how the director of a film or TV show calls out “Action” as the filming begins? Well that is the step that takes a script from something on paper to a finished product, a result that we can see. Good ideas constantly cross our minds, and enter our thoughts. We think of ways to improve things at work, how to change things with our kids, how we might make a difference in the lives of people around us. As ideas alone they accomplish nothing. As ideas combined with action they create results. The greatest of ideas goes nowhere until an action step is taken. Make an idea turn into results. Take action today!

© 2008 Barry D. Blanton. All rights reserved.
Monday Morning Minute is written by Barry D. Blanton and may be reproduced for non-commercial use only with proper acknowledgement.

To Subscribe: Send an e-mail to barrydblanton@aol.com with the word "SUBSCRIBE" in the subject line.

Definitions from Webster's

2008-08-06T12:20:00.002-04:00

Ok, so I have received many emails of thoughts and/or concerns from my last posting. I just want to make sure we're all on the same page here.

Lonely - being without companions; producing such dejection (deject - to lower the spirits of; dishearten)

Alone - apart from anything; with nothing else added

Yes, they are synonyms - but to me, lonely is an emotion and alone is a physical state. I am not low in spirits or disheartened.

I'm not feeling lonely!!! I have just come to the realization that I am alone and I'm fine with it. I'm not sad about anything....seriously. Well I do wish I lived in the city and not on Staten Island. And I do wish I had a certain someone physically in my life. But I'm still very happy.

And I like being alone. My own place, my own schedule, not having to check in with parents or boyfriend, having something very random for dinner, playing the music loud and dancing around, praying and meditating without anyone interrupting me or staring at me.

So...are we on the same page now? Kapeesh?

2008-07-24T15:50:00.002-04:00

After the vacation had ended I was on the way to the airport and I realized - I'm alone. At the airport I had lunch - alone. The plane was delayed so I waited - alone. I got into the plane and sat next to a couple who had their arms around each other and I had to try really hard not to roll my eyes. Then a big Colombian family sat in the next 2 rows in front of me and they were all laughing. Again, alone. Then, we couldn't land at the Atlanta airport and had to detour to Florida. We sat there for 45 minutes and everyone was having conversation and I was - alone with my cell phone dying.

When we we finally arrived at the Atlanta airport there was chaos; thousands of people trying to get on planes. I stood there thinking "dang, I could somehow get lost or kidnapped and no one would know. I could disappear and it would take hours, possibly a day or 2 for someone to realize I was missing." I finally got my new ticket for my new flight that left the following morning (ugh) so I stayed in a cheap motel - alone. I was starving. I slept with the light on and my sleep mask on - I was scared with the whole kidnapping thought.

I finally was on my plane to NYC the next morning. I was on the phone with my complicated when I was on board and I slept the whole flight so I wasn't able to think about it. But as soon as I was in the towncar heading home the thought came back. "If I disappeared no one would know for a couple days."

When it comes down to it a significant other would know very soon, an hour or 2 later. I say this because it is couples who always know where each other is and what they are doing. For example, my make-believe boyfriend would know I left work at 5:30 and he would know I walk a few blocks to get on the 1 to go straight to the SI ferry terminal...and so on and so on. So if he did not receive my call or reach me by 7pm he would wonder "Where is Monica?" After not reaching me for another hour he would get worried and possibly make a phone call to a close friend of mine wondering if I was with her. (This can also be a roommate however, reminder: i live alone).

You might be thinking: what about your family? friends? Here's my answer...

Sister - she's too busy. she has her family to take care of. i think a 3 to 4 days would pass before she would get real worried after not hearing back from me.

Parents - we don't talk everday, so it could take a week before they get real worried! haha

Friends who live here in NY - we all have our own lives. They might start getting real worried maybe 36 hours after not hearing from me. For example, if Carolina doesn't hear back from me she will probably ask Nick and if he doesn't then they'll start blowing up my cell.

El complicado - he lives across the pond, our schedules are way different and we don't know every single thing we do. he would wonder where I am if 1/2 a day passed with no communication from me. i would give it 2 days before he would contact my BFF or sister.

Lizzie and Jenny - i think they would notice real quickly because we're all into each other's business. but still, i think a day to 36 hours would pass

I am not sad about this because that's just the way it is and when it comes down to it, it is all in God's hands. I do have to get used to the realization though. And I am not alone alone because millions of people are like me and are alone most of the time. I think that makes sense.

What I am looking for in a significant other...

2008-07-24T11:31:00.003-04:00

(this is one of many characteristics)...

The movie "The Firm"..... Tom Cruise was set up. Someone slipped something in his drink when he was out of town which made him drunk. They then took off his clothes and took pictures of him with a naked woman. His boss then tried to blackmail him with the pictures. He said that he would tell Tom Cruise's wife if he attempted to leave the firm. But before Tom could get home to his wife…the boss got there and showed her the pictures. She had no idea...she was devastated. She looked at the pictures and then looked up at the boss…and this is the part that I love…she said "I know about these pictures, my husband and I have talked about them and we are dealing with it together". Just like that with no hesitation…she had his back. 100%. No questions asked…she and Tom Cruise were a team together in life and having his back was part of the rules of that relationship.

Of course I would rather skip the whole blackmail situation and I hope to not be betrayed but having each other's back is what I want. With no hesitation; strong support for each other.

Family Vacation

2008-07-23T22:24:00.009-04:00

Thursday, July 17 to Tuesday, July 22

Location: Iberostar Quetzal at Playa del Carmen

I arrived in Cancun a few hours earlier than my family. I had lunch, changed and went straight to the adult pool where the swim up bar is. First drink: vodka con fanta. After an hour or so I decided to look for the family who should have arrived already. I bumped into the first set of Condes (Dennis, Christy, Shay, Aurora, and Addison & Katelyn). Hugs, kisses all around. I went to building 23 where all our rooms were and tiptoed and listened. I figured I would hear my sister's loud voice (a trait that we share). Surprisingly it was Noah's voice that I heard and I began to yell out "Noah!" and then I heard Cathy scream "it's my sister!" She ran out of their room and we hugged and hugged. I was so happy to see cathy, leo, and the kids. Then my mom heard us from 2 floors up and went out to the balcony to say hi to me. I felt so good to hug my parents.

I won't give all the vacation details because it is a lot, so here's a few. We had a lot of fun! We were at the pool mostly because the the waves were real rough. The beach was breathtaking though. I ate nachos everyday, the kids had a lot of ice cream, my drink of choice was beer with lime, Leo smoked a million cigars, I got sunburned, my mom and I laughed a lot, Ava got braids, Leila became very confident in her swimming, Noah asked a million questions (he's at that age), my dad took a dozen naps a day (like that cruise commercial from a few years back), the kids and I painted ceramics, my mom made me do water aerobics with her which led into cheesy dancing with the entertainers like in Dirty Dancing (that I ended up enjoying because I am a cheeseball and Dirty Dancing is my favorite movie, but no, no summer lovin'), my sister and I laughed a lot, Ava was my roommate, I was asked if I was the "cool single aunt", I was also asked if I had a boob job, we ate fake japanese food, my parents took tequila shots, I met people from around the USA and the world.........and so much more.

AND I did a lot of thinking. What's new? But this time I wasn't interrupted. A few thoughts of mine:

Confident women.....I want to be in that category so bad. I kind of am but not all the way there yet. There was this one woman who was larger than me, by a few sizes, and she was taller, maybe a little taller than my sister. She had a red string thong bikini on and looked damn good. Even if my figure was a perfect 10 I wouldn't be secure enough to wear her itty bitty swimsuit. My thought: I want to be a very confident woman (and maybe wear that tiny swimsuit one day).
The staff.....not the entertainers because it looks like they have some fun. I couldn't stop thinking about the servers, the cleaners, the kitchen staff, etc. In order to vacation at Iberostar an individual pays close to a thousand dollars? How much is the staff making? Is it just a bit difficult to go to work everyday and bust your ass while watching people have fun in the sun in their swimsuits and drinking it up? Yes, you will get used to it eventually but do you ever get envious feelings? I began to feel bad. Who am I to deserve such a vacation? My parents - yes, they deserve it. Me? Not so much. Oh gaw....and that led into a million more thoughts.
Like, even though I was feeling bad I was being honest with myself. I'm not going to stop vacationing like this and this is just the beginning. I want more vacations, bigger ones, nicer ones... I mean, my honeymoon is going to be in Tahiti. (I decided this in 2004 when I saw this amazing vacation package in a live auction.)
So how in this universe will I be able to balance being a good and generous human being and still have this "nicer" things in life? (Then this exact question came up in the current book I'm reading.)
If I fall into a mid-life crisis I will do one of 2 things: 1) if I have money, travel the world or 2) i don't have money, I will be an entertainer at Iberostar for a year.
I love the sun, the heat, beaches and swimming pools - GASP! I'm going to experience my first full winter this year...yikes.
I'm alone....that's the topic for a future posting. And no, it's not all depressive and negative.

Fotos.....

One FAB Week!

2008-07-16T09:57:00.002-04:00

It has been a great week so far and it's only going to get better - if God permits. Loni, a super close and dear friend/sorority sister of mine was in the city for a few days for work. Monday after work I went to her hotel and of course our greeting was loud and full of excitement. The last time we had seen each other was right before I moved. We had dinner at Fig & Olive, shared a bottle of wine, then went back to the hotel and talked, talked, talked. We said we needed 36 hours straight to catch up.

Tuesday morning at work I was still laughing from our hilarious conversations.

Tuesday evening I met with another good friend of mine, Victoria, and couple of her friends at Central Park to see the New York Philharmonic. And we couldn't see them but we did hear them, barely. There was a few thousand people there and it was just amazing how this sea of people are there for the music and to socialize. It was quite a sight to see thousands of picnics all squished together and friends having a nice time on a Tuesday evening. Then to close the evening - fireworks! Fireworks are one my favorite things in life and I was so happy because I didn't see any for the 4th.

I loved it. I love NY.

Loni and 2 of her colleagues met up with us right on time to see the fireworks. The weather was low 70's, there was a slight breeze every once in awhile, and it was not humid. Gaw...I loved it. Afterwards, Loni, a colleague and I went to a rooftop bar and had some more conversations. We walked from the bar to the hotel, maybe 5 blocks, and I was thinking how I love the city and walking around and how romantic it can be...

I can't wait for Loni's next visit. I think my abs might be a tad sore because of all the laughing.

And that's just the beginning! I leave tomorrow for Mexico, Mexico, Mexico (sing it like the Grupo Niche song). La familia and I are going to a resort just 2 miles south of Playa del Carmen. Sun, all-inclusive resort, beach, pool, own room, and most importantly - family....what else could I ask for? Well, I can actually think of one more thing, but I'm still content, very excited and happy for the vacation. I miss the kids so much and hope I take advantage of the time we have together.

Monday Morning Minute

2008-07-14T10:05:00.001-04:00

Monday
Morning
Minute

****An email sent every Monday by a friend of mine. I enjoy receiving them every week and really like today's posting.

07.14.08

“A ship is safe in harbor, but that’s not what ships are for.”
- William Shedd

Ships are meant to be at sea. They are designed for much more than just remaining moored in harbor, even though they are safe there. What about people? We are safe at home, comfortable at the same job, secure in our routine. But what are people designed for! What are we meant to do? Are we supposed to remain steady and safe and secure for our entire lives? I think not. I think we are meant to venture out into the open seas. I think we are designed for more than status quo comfortable and safe. God’s plans for us take us out of the harbor.

Check out the open seas. It may not be as rough as you think.

© 2008 Barry D. Blanton. All rights reserved.
Monday Morning Minute is written by Barry D. Blanton and may be reproduced for non-commercial use only with proper acknowledgement.

First NYC Rat

2008-07-14T06:04:00.002-04:00

About 6 weeks ago at a department breakfast the topic of NYC rats came up. I know - not a good conversaton for breakfast. I was asked if I had seen one yet and everyone was very surprised that I had not after living here for 3.5 months. Five weeks ago I saw an itty bitty mouse and yes, I was grossed out, but it wasn't a big deal. Last night though....I saw an NYC rat while walking to the ferry terminal. It was as big as a small cat, I don't even think it had fur. I stopped in my tracks, had a disgusting dirty feeling all over, and gagged so badly that I bent over thinking I was going to vomit. I really hope this is not the beginning of a new pattern.

I hate rodents - all rodents, including hamsters. Yes, they're cute but they're dirty and smelly.

Business Card in the Subway

2008-07-11T10:24:00.003-04:00

While in the subway yesterday morning a guy was checking me out. As I walked out of the train he stopped me to give me his business card. He's a club promoter which means I should call because that means free drinks for my girlfriends and I. But if you know me well, you know I will not call and that business card will be thrown away (which it was). I did want to share what his professional title is.... under his name it said "Professional G".

(shaking head) Calmala!

Back to work...but only for 6 days!

2008-07-08T15:33:00.004-04:00

I returned to NY yesterday from my weekend getaway to Vermont. The weekend was wonderful! I had lots of fun with Orlando and laughed so much that I was bummed to be all alone in my studio. I was so bummed that when I called my parents and they did not answer - I cried for a few seconds. Then - I spoke to a friend and cried again. Then another and you guessed it, cried again. I wasn't sobbing it was just a few tears cuz I went from having a blast with a best friend to being absolutely alone. Pitiful...I just need to get used to the fact that I am a single adult living alone. Which I like a lot so it's weird when I have moments like this. Imagine when I get home from my family's vacation. Yikes... No, I'll be fine.

Before my trip my sister asked me where she could find herself an Orlando; I said it was too late, that she had to find him in high school. (Or undergrad). I was very lucky to find mine in high school! We noticed that this weekend, 3 full days and some more, that it was the longest amount of time we had been together in 8 years. Long time! And we really did make up for lost time. And I just noticed that many of my dearest relationships are long distance. Huh, why can't I keep my people close to me?

Orlando's girlfriend picked me up from the airport and we went for sushi after (where the bill was already taken care of by Orlando - of course it was). Then we went to his work where I was introduced to all his co-workers including his very nice boss/friend/mentor who asked me to his office. When I sat down I asked if I was in trouble because it sure seemed like it. I wasn't, but I was immediately asked 20 questions. I think he was surprised with how straighyforward and honest I was with my responses. I hung out at the office until 7 and then left for my massage appointment - a surprise Orlando had for me. It was a great massage and I was on cloud 9! After work we headed back to his apartment and some friends came over and we had a few drinks and chatted.

Friday - hung out again Orlando's work; laughed; laughed; laughed..... We then went to his friend's house where we drank, talked, and hung around the small bonfire. Laughed so more.

Saturday - HIKING! It has been 4 years since I've hiked and boy, it was a bit tough - and I'm in some sort of shape! The sights were beautiful and I enjoyed every minute of it. I almost fell once but luckily caught myself. The funnest part was when Orlando and Cory thought they found a bear print, but it turned out to be a boot print. LOL... In the evening we went to Burlington (the hip downtown-like bigger town) to meet up with some of Orlando's friends from Waco. We had a great time. When we got back to his place his friends were already there watching the UFC fights. His friend Kristen, who I now love, cooked me some mac-n-cheese, and 2 quiches. We talked about food earlier (after hiking) and she cooked while we were gone. How sweet is that? (Oh and she's a chef, so yes, it was delicioso.)
Sunday - We got into Burlington in the afternoon and walked around Church Street where there's shops, restaurants, and pubs. We went to a favorite place of his and I had the Fruit Passion (?) beer. It was so good that I had many. Hee hee. We hung out at the bar and watched the Olympic Trials. That was great because not too many people enjoy watching tracking & field and Orlando does (he used to be in T&F). We went home, got ready, and turned right back around to Burlington, but this time Kristen was with us and we went to a club that had Reggae Night. We had fun!!! And I heard for the first time the reggae song "Barack Obama"....so good!

Monday - Orlando made reservations for a lunch cruise around Lake Champlain. It was cute and we had a nice time. The boat had a tour guide (recorded) that gave the history on the lake, Burlington and Vermont. It was funny because Orlando kept saying "dang" or "oooo" followed by "that's interesting." He was listening and I was not, so he would then have to explain it to me.

AND THEN....he drove me to the airport and we said goodbye for now with a big bear hug and a 'love you'

THANK YOU Doza for a great weekend!!!

P.S. I'm serious Orlando. St. Alban's is now my weekend got-to-get-out-of-the-city getaway.

Happy 4th of July!!!

2008-07-03T10:52:00.002-04:00

I'm off to Vermont today! I am visiting Orlando and I am super excited to see him, his new home, meet his girlfriend and all his friends.....and let's be honest, his boxer friends at the gym (hee-hee....i'm kidding). I'm flying out this afternoon and should arrive in less than 1.5 hours.

I love NYC a whole lot, but I enjoyed leaving the city when I went to the Hamptons so I think I will enjoy the quiet and more calm state of Vermont.

Have a wonderful 4th of July and please be careful!!!! No drinking and driving you Texans!

Also...I am still pretty emotional this morning from last night's amazing news. 16 (?) hostages were rescued from FARC last night, including 3 Americans and, a woman who I think is amazing, Ingrid Betancourt. Go to www.CNN.com (the best news web site) to learn more. Colombians have a real celebration for this weekend.....the country is possibly one step closer of defeating the rebels. Dios Bendiga Colombia!

Grupo Fantasma...My Favorite Band

2008-07-01T07:24:00.008-04:00

This past weekend was full of random Fun, Fun, Fun! My favorite band, Grupo Fantasma, came to NYC and gave an outstanding show - like always. It was my 8th or 9th show and I was so happy that Mari and Krista went with me. I warned them that as soon as the band started playing that their bodies would naturally start dancing. Fantasma's music is full of vitality and just takes you over. And what happened when the the band began? The girls were dancing, smiling, and woohoo-ing!

Me and Jose, my crush, heehee....he is just so talented and i've had a mini crush on him for years now. I confessed it to him and he laughed (and kind of blushed). He's super talented: sings (great voice!!!!!) plays the timbales (amazing how his arms and hands can move) and writes many of their songs (including my favorite, Chocolate).

The girls and I posing with Kino, singer and percussion. He had some smooth lines like "ahh..I'm a lucky guy to pose with such beautiful girls," and "i could barely concentrate with you ladies dancing right in front." And guess what? We all giggled, blushed, and shrugged our shoulders....so silly of us

Me and Kino. His voice....ay, me encanta. Then I learned from my sorority sister, Laura, that he's from Eagle Pass. No wonder! I love people from Eagle Pass!

I heart Grupo Fantasma!

heat, humidity, and the SI Ferry

2008-06-24T06:50:00.002-04:00

London London London (sing it like Fergie)

2008-06-17T16:04:00.011-04:00

I went to London this past weekend and was mesmerized by its beauty. Many friends told me it was a beautiful city and of course, I've seen pictures and the city in movies/tv, but it is not until you go when you see and appreciate the richness. Not only was the city lovely but my company was wonderful too; I visited Abraham who moved there a few weeks ago.

My flight left at 8:30ish PM on Thursday and I arrived in London Friday morning at 9ish. I was concerned about sleeping on the plane so I made a plan and was very happy that it was successful. I had a glass of wine an hour before the flight, took a small pillow, a sleep mask, some lavender soothing lotion, and took a sleeping pill once we took off - I fell asleep 20 minutes after taking off and woke up 45 minutes or so before landing. Success! Customs took forever, but when I finally got through and arrived in the meeting area I was very happy to see my complicated (a.k.a. my friend Abraham)....ha, no questions please. (I am adding these details because Isaac called me out a few weeks ago saying my blog was square and not raw, so here we go with the transition).

The map on my screen. That's a long way over the ocean! The last time I crossed that ocean was in 2002...dang, it was time to go! And I seriously need to start planning more trips.

London is about 4,000 miles away and 5 hours ahead of Eastern time.

Friday afternoon. After getting situated at Abraham's adorable apartment we had lunch at a cute little place called Giraffe. After lunch; first stop Big Ben. It is beautiful! Again, pictures and movies do not provide justice to this historical structure! I think I said "Oh! It's so pretty" maybe 100 times a day while walking on every street.

The London Eye from the bus tour we got on. It was my dorky idea but a great one. We went everywhere and it's the best way to see everything at once. The London Eye is the tallest ferris wheel in Europe and is on the River Thames. It was quite a sight! We did not get on but now have learned that you can have private dinners and small cocktail parties on it; how ccool would that be?

Crossing the River Thames on the bus tour. We sat outside on the top deck.

Posing in a classsic telephone booth. The door was super heavy.

An alley near Covent Garden. This is very typical all around the city....being this cute and clean.

Typical buildings. The city is beautiful and so full of culture and history. The architecture is beautiful.

Tower Hill.....I can't remember the history told to us by the guide.

Another view of Big Ben and the London Eye behind it.

At Harrod's signing my mom name's in this dedication book to Princess Di (who my mom loved) and Dodi Al Fayed. Harrod's puts Neiman Marcus and any super high-end department store to shame. I couldn't believe how gorgoues this store is. Now only if I had the means to spend in there.....aww.....what a nice little daydream.

We walked out of Harrods and the Colombian Consulate was right across the street! Viva Colombia! There are many consulates and embassies in London. The country's flag would be outside of the front door of their homes. One lives across the street from Abraham.

Our only picture. Abraham and I were on the boat tour. Our guide was funny and did great at describing all the sites.

Passing under London Bridge.

Borshtch n Tears. A pub recommended to Abraham by a friend. We spent an hour or so there on Saturday afternoon sitting outside sharing a bottle of champagne. It was a very nice moment....

The Bunch of Grapes. Another pub that was recommended to us both. We had Sunday lunch here.

We sat outside for our Sunday dinner and this was across the street (and 25 steps from Abraham's apartment). He lives in Knightsbridge; a very nice location. I was done that evening! We walked all over the city, went to church, went to Starbucks twice, took the boat tour - I was exhausted.

Back in the plane to go home! Awww...the weekend is over! I had a great weekend and time was on my side because it was not rushed.

The estimated time of arrival was wrong. I landed at 3 PM, Eastern time. This flight I did not want to sleep like I was gaining hours. I saw the movies Definitely, Maybe and The Other Boleyn Girl, and played backgammon many times. And also thought "how did i get here?" Just one decision - move to NYC - took me to London.

I loved London! Friends told me I would and they were right. I will go back but hopefully I will have more time and be able to experience more of the city. Oh and one more thing - it's kind of romantic.....

Gracias Complicado for showing me a wonderful time....

Monday

2008-06-09T13:35:00.004-04:00

Mike has left the state! It's always sad when your fun weekend comes to an end but luckily for me I have another weekend to look forward to. We had a nice weekend and Mike did not do touristy things, he instead did more "I live in NY" things.

We went to Times Square and a show on friday. We saw Avenue Q and it was hilarious! It is not a show for everyone. If you like raunchy comedy - ...eww that just sounds gross. I do think if you like or enjoyed movies such as "Suberbad" "Bad Santa" "Knocked Up" then you will most likely laugh and enjoy Avenue Q. We had a few drinks after the show and headed back home to rest for our big day on Saturday.

Saturday - we went to the Big Apple BBQ at Madison Square Park. It was 98 degrees!!!! Sooooo hot! Thank goodness I put on a sleeveless baby tee and shorts. If I was 10 pounds thinner I would have stripped down to a bikini like many were in (laying out on the lawns not walking around with bbq plates - that would be Mike's, and many men's, dream come true, hot chicks in bikinis carrying around bbq and beer...haha). In one hour we had 3 bbq plates, but they were small so it was ok. We finally went to the Texas Exes area and had a bit more but this time refreshing bud light beer. Of course, the Texas Exes had a keg that was a free for us who bleed orange.

When we got back to the apt Mike yelled "No more light!!! Only dark!!!" yes, it was nap time. We needed it because the sun and heat drained us and we were stuffed with bbq and beer.

Saturday night we went to Soho to celebrate my friend, Krista's birthday. I think we got a little too wild for Mike. It has just been soooo long since Mike and I have partied together and sooooo long since he has seen me party with my best friends - so yes, it was a tad bit wild. Good times good times!

This is a lot of writing so I"ll write more later......

Mike is visiting

2008-06-06T01:45:00.004-04:00

Mike arrived today at 5ish and he's already making fun of the Staten Island Ferry. Haha... As soon as I got here I was ready to leave so we left. We went to Pompano, the restaurant where Mari works. We had dinner and drinks, then Mari was off, Carolina arrived, and Neil and his friend got there. We kept having drinks and the bartender, a.k.a. as a very nice friend, kept bringing us more appetizers and drinks.

We closed that place down. We had a good time and hopefully Mike enjoyed his first night in NYC.

Mike and I having dinner at Pampono

Mike and Neil discussing their blackberries. Silly boys

The girls...BFF's....including my Corona!

The Last Day of School!

2008-06-04T14:51:00.002-04:00

Today was Noah and Ava's last day of school. I called them in the morning to say "Woo-hoo!!!! School is over! And summer is here!!! Holla!!!" And if you know me well you know I yelled it and really did go woo-hoo while walking to the subway.

Noah said "yeah and we get out early," like it was no biggie, but Ava said, "I know Tia!" with enthusiasm. Those 2 have very different personalities. So cute!

So aftter we hung up I walked down to the subway and almost cried. I've thought of this before but it being the last day of school, I remembered again that most likely I will miss their next first day of school. My sister and leo have let me make a big deal out of the first day of school since Noah started. I would get to their house super early with donuts, help Ava with her hair, kiss them both a million times and tell them good luck and study hard and then take a 50 pictures of each - no exaggeration.

Maybe I'll be able to go back to Houston in August for the first day of school festivities. If not I'm sure I'll think of something fun for the kids to show my support. Ooo! I think I just thought of it!

I'll leave you with a couple poems from one of my favorite childhood poets, Shel Silverstein (and let's just be honest, I'm 26 and still laugh at these poems.) ***go to bottom

And because I am talking about school, I would like to make a quick shoutout to some of my favorite authors:

Ann M. Martin - Babysitters Club....I read every single book and even tried to make my own Babysitter's Club but it was not successful.
Beverly Cleary - if you don't know who she it's unfortunate for you....I loved Ramona! And so many other characters from your books.
Wilson Rawls - Where The Red Fern Grows.....i only read this one book of yours but I wouldn't be surprised if this is where I really fell in love with reading (even though I have drifted away time to time). I always enjoyed reading but this book was my first "can't put it down until I finish it" book
oh and I have to throw this in....a shout-out to Arlene Mosel (i didn't know your name though, i had to google it) for giving me Tiki Tiki Tembo. Oh my gaw! One of the best books ever in life for a young reader.

***Rain by Shel Silverstein

I opened my eyes

And Looked up at the rain,

And it dripped in my head

And flowed into my brain,

And all that I hear as I lie in my bed

Is the slishity-slosh of the rain in my head.

I step very softly,

I walk very slow,

I can't do a handstand-

I might overflow,

So pardon the wild crazy think I just said-

I'm just not the same since there's rain in my head.

*** Whatif by Shel Silverstein (maybe a favorite of mine)

Last night, while I lay thinking here,

some Whatifs crawled inside my ear

and pranced and partied all night long.

and sang their same old Whatif song:

Whatif I'm dumb in school?

Whatif they've closed the swimming pool?

Whatif I get beat up?

Whatif there's poison in my cup?

Whatif I start to cry?

Whatif I get sick and die?

Whatif I flunk that test?

Whatif green hair grows on my chest?

Whatif nobody likes me?

Whatif a bolt of lightning strikes me?

Whatif I don't grow talle?

Whatif my head starts getting smaller?

Whatif the fish won't bite?

Whatif the wind tears up my kite?

Whatif they start a war?

Whatif my parents get divorced?

Whatif the bus is late?

Whatif my teeth don't grow in straight?

Whatif I tear my pants?

Whatif I never learn to dance?

Everything seems well, and then

the nighttime Whatifs strike again!

Drive..by The Cars

2008-06-03T13:01:00.003-04:00

who's gonna tell you when
it's too late
who's gonna tell you things
aren't so great
you can't go on
thinking nothing's wrong
who's gonna drive you home tonight
who's gonna pick you up
when you fall
who's gonna hang it up
when you call
who's gonna pay attention
to your dreams
who's gonna plug their ears
when you scream
you can't go on
thinking nothing's wrong
who's gonna drive you home tonight
who's gonna hold you down
when you shake
who's gonna come around
when you break

ay...me gusta

surprise...flowers!

2008-06-02T20:54:00.003-04:00

Friday afternoon I went to the florist in the Amex building to check out the merchandise. I chose the bouquet I wanted and planned to go Monday afternoon but I didn't have to. It seems like a little bird flew a long long way across the pond and told Abraham what my plan was. So Abe sent me flowers. Goodness, so sweet and thoughtful; it made my day even that much better.

There was a second I had to think about a purchase I made in the 6 o'clock hour this morning. One of the first things I did was get online to send flowers to my very good friend/ex-boss, Jennifer, to say congrats on completing a triatholon. So when I received the call from the delivery guy I had to think for a moment "wait a sec. i didn't send myself flowers did i?"

"My thoughts are free to go anywhere, but it's surprising how often they head in your direction."

Fun fun weekend

2008-06-01T23:49:00.005-04:00

MY GOODNESS....I had a great weekend! We had so much fun and laughed so hard, so many times that I am still laughing today. Krista and I met at Penn Station to get on the 1:45 train to Southhampton. We went to TGIFridays first and got a margarita to go - haha, me gusta!

We were some of the first to arrive at the house and the great conversations and laughter started immediately. Mari, Nick, and Carol arrived a few hours later. There was probably 25 people in that house and luckily,

we had our own room.

We hung out, we drank, we played games, we went out and partied - and we laughed. Seriously we laughed that much. The 5 of us went to the beach on Sunday and got to lay out; oh how i love the beach and the sun! i can't wait for playa de carmen in july!

Krista and I on Saturday afternoon

Carolina and Mari. Saturday afternoon.

Nick and I. Saturday afternoon.

Alex, our wonderful host.

The girls....

Nick and Mari before going out Saturday night.

Posing with the flowers that my dress matches perfectly.

Nick being silly.

The Gonzalez clan...who have adopted me.

Krista and Nick in their newlywed pose.

Nick and I in our prom pose.

The girls...

Again...

Nick and Mari on the way to the beach.

Good times huh? I enjoyed the Hamptons and am ready for the next time.

Hamptons Weekend

2008-05-29T22:48:00.002-04:00

I'm packed and ready to start the weekend. Carolina's friend from law school, Alex, has invited us and others to a beach house in the Hamptoms. Not the richie-rich part. I'm excited to be at the beach, even though the weather will most likely not be beach-fun. It should be fun as its going to be a bunch of young adults escaping for a couple of days.

We were supposed to have a yacht party on Saturday night but the captain of the yacht has cancelled it due to the weather. Ugh..pero that's ok. I'm sure we'll have fun partying at the house.

I'm also excited because this weekend will start my very fun-filled June. This weekend the Hamptons, next weekend Mike is visiting from H-town, and the following weekend I'm off to London to visit Abraham. So if God permits, I should be having lots of fun in June!

Mami - I finally organized my apartment and put my luggage away (it has been out since my trip to Houston). I love you!

No flowers for me....twice

2008-05-29T16:53:00.003-04:00

This is way random. I was walking to the security reception room to pick something up and I was asked if the flowers delivered were for me. I said "No." Then I quickly jumped across the building to The Gap to see if they had the navy blue chinos I've been wanting in my size. When I went through security to go back in, another person asked if I was there to pick up the flowers. I again, said no.

Then I thought, "Aww...I want flowers. It has been awhile. I think my birthday/marathon?" Then I thought, "But why do I have to wait for someone to give me flowers?" Right?! So because it's Thursday and the week is ending I decided that on Monday afternoon I will go to the florist and buy myself some flowers. A small bouquet for my cubicle.

Good idea huh?

Music/Musique

2008-05-28T14:41:00.003-04:00

I think it's funny when people (or a survey of some sort) asks me what kind of music I like or prefer and don't believe my answer of "Everything!" Maybe it's not everything but it is a wide variety. This morning I had my Nano on shuffle and this was the odd combination of songs...

Amor, Ben E. King
We Be Clubbin, Ice Cube
Lean On Me, Club Nouveau
Dance With Me, The Drifters
Gettin' Jiggy Wit It, Will Smith
Every Breath You Take, UB40
Damn I Wish I Was Your Lover, Sophie B Hawkins
Hypnotize, The Notorious B.I.G.
Fruta Fresca, Carlos Vives
Before He Cheats, Carrie Underwood
Sabotage, Beastie Boys
Stomp, Kirk Franklin

I have French class tonight and am not doing so well. I need to study A WHOLE LOT more and possibly get a tutor. I am enjoying it though and really hope I hold onto this and make it a 3rd language (conversation at least). The good thing is that Lizzie and I have started the topic on going to France next year.

Have I told you that I love NYC?

Nice Memorial Weekend

2008-05-27T15:45:00.003-04:00

It was a nice weekend! It made me happy because there are endless possibilities of things to do here in NYC. I left the office early on Friday because a director said we had better not stayed after 3pm - so of course I listened! I went over to the UWS and Mari and Krista were home and they made sangria. It was yummy! When Nick arrived we all got ready and went to High Bar which is rooftop bar. It was nice, the mojitos were good, the staff wore all white - but it was TOO expensive! We were saying how we should go back until we saw the bill and decided not to anytime soon. We kind of got lucky to even get it because Nick was in jeans with holes and had on sneakers and I forgot my i.d.

We left early and went to a Brazilian restaurant that was yum-yum for the tum-tum. I will definitely take my parents there and my brother-in-law when they visit. We wanted to watch the Spurs/Lakers game so we went to a sports bar and watched the crappy game (Spurs lost by 30 points; and I only rooted for them because they're from Texas). We did stay after the game and had more drinks and danced, danced, danced. Good times!

Saturday - NOTHING....Mari and I were lazy! She left for work then Nick shortly after got home. Nick, Aaron and I went to the movies and saw Forgetting Sarah Marshall. And we headed back home and just hung out.

Sunday - I went running in Central Park and it was not a good run. I was ready and had energy but when I started to run I was weak and felt heavy - it was odd. I hurried home to get ready for church. I went to the 10 o'clock mass thinking if I waited for the group we might not make it to the evening mass and yes, I was right. I'm happy I went. We then went to Soho to meet Nick after work and again just relaxed at home. I am very happy with a purchase I made at Urban Outfitters - a very cute summer tube dress! Can't wait to wear it...

Monday, Memorial Day. We took our time getting ready and went to the park and hung out and had ice cream. We were having funny conversations and laughing a lot and we napped too. When we got back home we had chili dogs and watched the movie, Recount, an HBO film about the 2000 presidential election, when Al Gore was robbed the presidency. Yes, I said it and believe it.

All in all - it was a great weekend. I ended the evening having a great phone call with a best friend, Orlando. Even though I did get frustrated because pinche T-mobile began to act up on me.

I LOVE NYC

3-day weekend!

2008-05-23T10:12:00.002-04:00

Oh yeah! It's a 3-day weekend! I have my bag packed for the weekend. I will be staying on the UWS, like I do almost every weekend, so my bag is big. It looks like I'm traveling somewhere and technically I am out of town, like I won't be back at Staten Island until Monday. We have no big plans this weekend. It will only be Maritza, Nick, and I because Carolina and Neil went to California.

I was not feeling well yesterday and went home early. I was not happy about leaving because as a contractor, I only get paid when working. But I felt bad so my bed was calling me. I feel better this morning, not completely back to normal, but good enough to put a dress on, do my make-up, and go to work.

It's fleet week here in NYC. This is when tons and tons of Marines and sailors are in town to celebrate Memorial Day, basically. And they all stay on Staten Island, so I have seen many on the ferry. Me gusta men in uniforms! Many look very very nice. hee-hee

I went to Bible Study yesterday and liked it a lot. There is a group here at American Express called SALT and they meet every Thursday for an hour to study the Bible. I haven't been to Bible Study in a few months so I was very excited about going. The group was very nice and inviting and I hope to keep going. I did leave feeling uplifted and recognizing that I need to tweak some things in my life. For example, I need to be more positive about myself and more confident; I also need to pray more like I used to (morning, noon, and night!); I need to fully understand that everything is in God's hands and not mine; and this is little random, but I need to say grace before I eat. I do sometimes, but obviously I lost that because I used to always say grace (well not always, but almost).

"Luck take a second look at what appears to be someone's "good luck." You'll find not luck but preparation, planning, and success-producing thinking."

- David Joseph Schwartz

From the tiny bit I read about the late Mr. Schwartz, I like his way of thinking.

http://cornerstone.wwwhubs.com/David_Schwartz.html

Venting

2008-05-21T07:05:00.004-04:00

I messed up big time! A best friend of mine, Winnie, is getting married on September 6th in Sugar Land (to Andrew, a cutie). Andrew proposed on or around Christmas and they have had this date since the beginning of the year. I am honored to be asked to be a bridesmaid (and our dresses our FAB!)

Then, another best friend of mine Florencia was proposed to by her man, Sami, another cutie. This happened recently in the beginning of May and they also chose the month of September. Again, I feel honored to be asked to be a bridesmaid. I told Florencia, via email, that "I know I am not a priority but I have important plans for Sept 13th already." Florencia said "Yes you are so that date is not possible for us." And they chose the 6th.

Then something hit me yesterday. "I think I gave Flo the wrong date!" I did. So now both weddings are on the 6th. Now what? Everything for Winnie stays as is - no problem there. But I now cannot stand in Flo and Sami's wedding. I even looked at flights from Houston to Austin in the evening thinking I can leave Win's reception a little early and fly to Austin and make it.

I just checked flights and it looks like it could work, but I don't think I can. I would feel awful to leave Winnie's reception and to have Flo make her wedding later in the evening.

I am so upset with myself! I don't do these kind of things! I usually cannot live without my planner and my dates are always right. I even know the calendar (except for birthdays, that's a tough one for me). It's just time for me to get through this transition of moving and get things back on track - it has been 3 months!

I just don't get it. I let my friend down. A best friend that I love a whole lot. Gosh....so bad. And it's a wedding I would never want to miss. I love Flo and Sami as a couple and have been waiting for their wedding for years now.

I should focus on understanding this happened for a reason.

So do I ask Winnie if it's ok I leave early from the reception? Then fly to Austin for Flo's wedding? Maybe I can miss the ceremony but be there for pictures and the whole reception? (as a bridesmaid or not).

And I have to remember that this is all my fault. I gave the wrong date at the very beginning.

uh-oh..this is going to be difficult

2008-05-14T23:10:00.003-04:00

Class was interesting. My teacher is adorable but all over the place. I'm real particular in how I like my teachers and she does not fit the description. But when it comes down to it, I will either learn the language or not and it's strictly up to me. I am very excited to learn French and think it would be awesome to add it to my resume; 'conversational French'.

I have a textbook and I purchased an audiobook on Itunes. The next purchase will be a dictionary and maybe in the future I will get a tutor. (I am determined to learn French.) So now that I have the audiobook I look like a NY crazy walking the streets talking to myself. Haha...I mean, what can I do? I'm not alone in a car and I'm not home often, so I have to talk to myself when I'm on the ferry or walking.

So I was on the ferry the other evening and I just happen to sit with a group of Frenchmen who were visiting. They heard me practicing and asked me why I wanted to learn, I told them, and they offered a quick tutorial but I said it probably wouldn't help because I know nothing and am trying to learn the sounds. And I also said, I don't want you to make fun of me afterwards. After we exited the ferry and said bye, I heard the men (it was a group of dads, ages 60's, and sons, 30's) telling one young guy 'ask her!', 'go!', 'what are you scared of?' Haha...that lifted my spirits for the moment. Well, I guess they could have been talking about someone else, but I'll just pretend it was towards me.

Excited for my first day of class!

2008-05-14T10:34:00.003-04:00

Since my announcement of signing up for French classes I have learned that a handful of friends know a bit, some or a lot of the language. That makes me happy because I am not shy and will ask these friends to help me and have conversations with me (once I get to that point).

What's funny is how these friends bust out with their French and I have no response because, well, I don't know the language. Here are a few email/texts I have received (and I won't even attempt what has been said to me verbally by my sister):

Bonne journee (Good day)
Nous pourrons parlez ensemble (We can talk together)
Felicitations et bonne chance!! Le farncais sera tres facil, parce que to parles bien l'espagnol (Congratulations and good luck! French will be very easy because you speak good Spanish) ***well, I still do not believe I speak Spanish perfectly, but who does?

A funny thing happened this morning. I was getting dressed and put on a favorite outfit of mine. It's just black slacks with a white fitted shirt tucked in and a black belt. The top is 3 quarter sleeves and boatneck, so a wider neck and you have to be careful with your bra straps..... and I wear a black scarf (from my sorority) around my neck. I love the outfit for a few reasons, anyways, so then it hit me - you idiot! Why are you are trying to be all french with a scarf!?! So I changed. Hahaha....it was a good laugh.

Classe commence Mercredi!

2008-05-12T19:16:00.002-04:00

I don't know if my title is correct or not; I used Google's language tools. I registered for my language class today and start on Wednesday. I will be learning French!

I know, it's not what most people voted for on the poll BUT I have very good reasons. Well, basically all the arrows were pointing to French, so Italian and I were just not meant to be. Well, the language not the men - haha...just kidding......no i'm not.

When I called today to learn more about the school and to register it was obvious the French classes were the way to go.

Italian classes:

Very few were open (in popular demand). I wanted a Tuesday or Wednesday evening class and the only available class is on Thursdays.
I want to start sooner than later and the Italian Thursday class starts mid-June.
If I signed up for that class it would run into September. Which means the possibility of missing 3 classes (1 for summer family vacation, and 2 for trips to Texas for weddings that I am standing in). And you can only make up 1 class. And I am not trying to waste any dinero.
I don't know anyone who speaks Italian.

French classes:

When I moved here taking French classes was the initial idea.
Starts this week!
It's a Wednesday class and I wanted that.
It runs through July and if I have to miss a class it will only be one and I can make it up.
I have Winnie and Krystle, 2 of my best friends, who speak French, so I can practice with them.
And this is not that important but real cool - the class is in the Empire State Building!!!! I mean, come on - that's cool!

I am so excited! I have been downloading "French for beginners" podcasts for a few months now and will finally start listening on a regular basis. And I need to buy a binder or spiral and I love buying school supplies (even if it's just a couple items I'll be happy).

Jesus is My Homeboy

2008-05-12T13:44:00.004-04:00

A forward I received today from Lorena, my dear friend.

A fifth grade teacher in a Christian school asked her class to look at TV commercials and see if they could use them in some way to communicate ideas about God. Here are some of the results:

God is like BAYER ASPIRIN...He works miracles.

God is like a FORD...He's got a better idea.

God is like COKE...He's the real thing.

God is like HALLMARK CARDS...He cares enough to send His very best.

God is like TIDE...He gets the stains out that others leave behind.

God is like GENERAL ELECTRIC...He brings good things to life.

God is like SEARS...He has everything.

God is like ALKA-SELTZER...Try Him, you'll like Him

God is like SCOTCH TAPE...You can't see Him, but you know He's there.

(My Favorite one.)

God is like DELTA...He's ready when you are.

God is like ALLSTATE...You're in good hands with Him.

God is like VO-5 Hair Spray...He holds through all kinds of weather.

God is like DIAL SOAP...Aren't you glad you have Him?
Don't you wish everybody did?

God is like the U.S. POST OFFICE...
Neither rain, nor snow, nor sleet nor ice will keep Him from His appointed destination.

God is like Chevrolet. . . .the heart beat of America

God is like Maxwell House. . . Good to the very last drop

God is like. Bounty. . . . He is the quicker picker upper. . can handle the tough jobs

and He won't fall apart on you

Fin De Semana

2008-05-11T20:21:00.008-04:00

The rain - I actually don't hate it but it's bad on these mornings when I wake up early (5:45AM) to work out. I have a rule: when it's raining, stay in bed. Lucky for me, I can.

I had a nice weekend. Mari and I were supposed to go out on Friday and didn't. Ugh. It was raining and ugly outside and once we were dressed and ready to go we looked at each other and decided to stay in. I said Ugh earlier because I shouldn't stay in. How am I supposed to make new friends or meet future dates if I stay in all weekend? I won't.

Saturday was great. I woke up early, got ready, and walked around NYC with a cinnamon dolce latte (delicioso) and a very nice phone call from London. I walked from one side of the city to the other to look at an apartment. The apartment was great and I would be turning in my application today but logic hit me. I am looking for an apartment because I want to be in the city even though my current situation is almost perfect. Almost, because I hate the Staten Island ferry. It really isn't that bad but no me gusta the stress. (I've voiced this feeling a few blogs ago). I looked at 5 apartments, hated 3 of them, liked 1, loved the first one. Dang...I wish I would have sat down to write out my thoughts to figure out if I should apply for it or not.

So - Saturday afternoon. Winnie and I met at the bridemaid dress store and we found the dress! It is sooooo pretty and the girls will look great. We met with Andrew, her fiance, after and went to Brooks Brothers and dinner. I love Brooks Brothers. Classic. So Classic. Very preppy and me gusta. I wanted a purse but it cost $400 and thought, "Well, next time." Ha! Yeah, when is next time? For dinner we went to a Japanese restaurant in St. Mark's Place, in the East Village. It was soooooo good. Our server was intoxicated though - haha.... I did decide that this is a place where I will take visitors. Then I went to a terrace party with Carolina and the crew. It was her friend/colleague's apartment. We had fun and laughed a lot and I discovered these amazingly delicious cookies. I also buzzed dialed Isaac and laughed some more. (Isaac - you like my little shout out?)

Mari and Nick looking good!

The chicas - Mari, me, Katie, Carolina

Nick and Neil being silly posing with their phones.

Neil is very proud of his new blackberry.

Sunday was very nice too. After making Mother's Day calls, Nick and I, and his friend Aaron, had a late lunch and went to see Iron Man. OMG - I LOVED IT. Of course the movie's previews looked great but I LOVE Robert Downey Jr. I just love his adorable face and his voice. So the movie itself was great but I loved watching RDJ. The action was awesome, the graphics were amazing, the script was good & funny, and RDJ was buff. You must watch this movie! My sister asked if it was appropriate for Noah, my nephew age 8. She was told by some mothers that it was not. Here are my 2 cents (or 5 because I have a lot of opinions): Is there an adult scene? yes. But all together it is maybe 4 minutes of the 2 hours plus movie. It's a quick crazy-fun in the bed, then the sexy gal in the morning wakes up with only a sheet on, then walks around in his shirt. That's it. Then there's a few lines here and there that I think will go over Noah's head. I say discuss with the child that you will cover his/her eyes or be ready to go to the restroom (even though it's in the beginning). 2 thumbs up!

I was very happy to get chocolate covered strawberries at a small street vendor fair.

Aaron (Nick's friend), me, and Nick. My Sunday afternoon dates.

A song I love: Wreckless Love by Alicia Keys....download it. I've never felt the feelings because she is talking about a long relationship that is still in love but just doesn't have that fun they used to have together. But her music is so amazing that I sing along with it as if I was feeling those emotions. And now that I'm talking about Ms. Keys.... Her most recent cd is As I Am. It's great. I love it. You've definitely heard the song "No One" - that was her first single of this cd. Very catchy and "poppy" but damn good. "Superwoman" oh...so good, love it! "Teenage Love Affair" haha...makes me think of that high school relationship and I laugh (in a nice way). "Like You'll Never See Me Again" Love it! And it connects to a recent experience of mine so the song now has a special meaning. The whole cd is wonderful and is a must buy. (Confession: I didn't buy it. THANK YOU MIKE for giving me the c.d.!)

My most favorite poem of all time...

2008-05-08T20:47:00.003-04:00

PHENOMENAL WOMAN

by Maya Angelou

Pretty women wonder where my secret lies

I'm not cute or built to suit a model's fashion size

But when I start to tell them

They think I'm telling lies.

I say

It's in the reach of my arms

The span of my hips

The stride of my steps

The curl of my lips.

I'm a woman

Phenomenally

Phenomenal woman

That's me.

I walk into a room

Just as cool as you please

And to a man

The fellows stand or

Fall down on their knees

Then they swarm around me

A hive of honey bees.

I say

It's the fire in my eyes

And the flash of my teeth

The swing of my waist

And the joy in my feet.

I'm a woman

Phenomenally

Phenomenal woman

That's me.

Men themselves have wondered

What they see in me

They try so much

But they can't touch

My inner mystery.

When I try to show them

They say they still can't see.

I say

It's in the arch of my back

The sun of my smile

The ride of my breasts

The grace of my style.

I'm a woman

Phenomenally

Phenomenal woman

That's me.

Now you understand

Just why my head's not bowed

I don't shout or jump about

Or have to talk real loud

When you see me passing

It ought to make you proud.

I say

It's in the click of my heels

The bend of my hair

The palm of my hand

The need for my care.

'Cause I'm a woman

Phenomenally

Phenomenal woman

That's me.

I love Maya Angelou. She is definitely a living legend and someone I admire. I hope that one day I and most women will be as confident as she. Maya Angelou believes every woman is beautiful and intelligent, it's just a matter of knowing and showing it. Another favorite poem of mine, by Maya Angelou......

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ..

enough money within her control to move out and rent a place of her own,

even if she never wants to or needs to...

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ...

something perfect to wear if the employer,

or date of her dreams wants to see her in an hour...

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ..

a youth she's content to leave behind....

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ...

a past juicy enough that she's looking forward to retelling it in her old age....

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE .... ..

a set of screwdrivers, a cordless drill, and a black lace bra...

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE .

one friend who always makes her laugh...

and one who lets her cry...

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ....

a good piece of furniture not previously owned by anyone else in her family..

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ...

eight matching plates, wine glasses with stems,

and a recipe for a meal, that will make her guests feel honored...

A WOMAN SHOULD HAVE ...

a feeling of control over her destiny.

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

how to fall in love without losing herself.

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

how to quit a job, break up with a lover,

and confront a friend without ruining the friendship..

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

when to try harder...

and WHEN TO WALK AWAY...

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

that she can't change the length of her calves, the width of her hips,

or the nature of her parents..

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

that her childhood may not have been perfect...

but its over...

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

what she would and wouldn't do for love or more...

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

how to live alone... even if she doesn't like it...

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW..

whom she can trust, whom she can't,

and why she shouldn't take it personally...

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

where to go...

be it to her best friend's kitchen table...

or a charming inn in the woods...

when her soul needs soothing...

EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW...

what she can and can't accomplish in a day...

a month...and a year...

Visit Home

2008-05-05T00:08:00.008-04:00

GREAT WEEKEND! I went home on Friday and returned to my new home, NY Sunday evening. I went home for a very special occasion - Noah's first communion. I couldn't believe it. Seeing him with a tie on saying his prayers and taking communion was so special and I had butterflies in my stomach.

My sister and Leila picked me up from the airport and the first stop was Whataburger. I ordered a number one: Whateburger and fries. I ate maybe 5 fries and the whole burger and had a stomach ache after - go figure. We picked up Noah and Ava from school, went to the girl's doctor appointments and then run a few errands. I was exhausted! Not only did I wake up super early to make my 7:30 AM flight, but running all those errands exhausted me.

I want to write more and will soon. I will, however, post pictures now. I loved this past weekend and it was over way to quick.

Ava trying to pull out her loose tooth.

Leila being silly at the doctor's office.

Ava on the monkey bars at the baseball fields.

Leila and I at the baseball fields.

Noah's First Communion.

Trying to take a picture with Noah, Ava, and Addison.

Marta, Misael, and Daniela when we went bowling.

The Condes being crazy.

Ava and I on the day I left.

Leila, beautiful as always.

My parents and I.

Leo, Noah, and Cathy at Noah's First Communion.

Noah and I.

Cathy and I at lunch.

Me and Daniela. She has big time mamites..is that how you spell it?

Parents and I at bowling.

Cathy and Leo.

The girls.

Cathy and I.

Butterflies in my stomach....(good ones though)

2008-04-30T11:51:00.002-04:00

I'm going home to Houston this weekend! I am so excited to see my nephew and nieces. I wish I could go around town to say hello to family and friends but my top (and only) priority is those 3. I miss them so much and I am just dying to hug them and smother them in kisses. I know Ava will take them, Leila will at first but might push me off after a few minutes, and Noah will act like he doesn't like the affection (cuz he loves it).

Noah will be having his first communion and I am so happy for him. This is a big deal and as his Tia and Godmother I had to fly home for the event. I get in early Friday morning and am excited to have my sister pick me up. Cathy and I have become closer than ever with my move and we're both loving this new friendship of ours.

I've kind of been on a roller coaster ride this last month so I'm happy that this next weekend should level me and get me refocused. I can't believe that I am already approaching 3 months here in NY. Time flies when life changes and you're having fun. I was asked last night what my goals were for the near future and asked a few days ago where do I see myself in 10 years. I could barely answer either question. All that I know right now is that I want to be at peace (which I am), I want to be confident (getting there), I want to work in corporate philanthropy (at square 1, but got it started), I am still not ready to get involved with non-profit organizations as a volunteer or committee member (I should be ready later this year), and I want to travel (I'm trying to figure out my summer plans; and Liz and I should start planning a trip to Greece next year). I know that in 10 years I would hope to have crossed off many items off my Life's To Do List (but even that list changes time to time).

The good thing is that I am happy. And I'm in love with New York City. So in love I just want to see and experience everything. And that is exactly what I am planning to do.

Me Encanta Nueva York!

Another fun weekend....

2008-04-28T11:40:00.004-04:00

This past weekend was fun and full of laughs. The best event last week was Maritza moving here! She packed her bags and joined us in this great city! Maritza, is the oldest of the Gonzalez clan, so she's Carolina's and Nick's sister. The 3 of them has adopted me as their 4th sibling. Mari arrived on Wednesday and I was so excited and full of emotions. I can't believe she and I are both here. M&M is going to take NYC by storm! haha

We went out for drinks on Thursday night and ended up staying out too late. It was tough to get up the next morning. So because we were tired from Thursday we stayed in on Friday and I hung out with my new friend, Abraham. I call him Mr. New York because he's been living here for 10 years and knows the city better than anyone that I have met so far.

Saturday, I went running in Central Park. IT IS BEAUTIFUL!!! It's so easy to run there because I get lost in my thoughts, the scenery and my music. I ran almost 5 miles and when I decided to calm down and stop running I was lucky to run into a jazz band. So I was able to cool down and stretch with some nice jazz. I thought to myself once again "Thank you God. I love NY"

Yesterday Carolina and I met with Winnie at Macy's to look at bridesmaid dresses. To bad I wanted to buy everything in that giant store! One day I will give myself a little shopping spree. Afterwards Carolina, Mari, Neil, Nick, Krista, and I went to a bar for Abraham's (new friend) going away party. (He's moving to London.) We thought it would be an early night as the get-together was from 6 to 8 and it was a Sunday evening, but no. I woke up in Mari's bed at 5:30 this morning wondering how I got home - haha...so bad. I might have a few pictures so I'll post later.

At work now and I should be working. Here's a quote I received from a friends Monday email.

"We could learn a lot from crayons. Some are sharp, some are pretty and some are dull. Some have weird names and all are different colors, but they all have to live in the same box."

I LOVE NYC

This Weekend...

2008-04-20T23:30:00.005-04:00

It was a beautiful weekend! For lunch on Friday I went outside and it was packed, everyone was outside. I couldn't believe I was sitting there next to the harbor looking out to New Jersey with the Statue of Liberty in the background. The sun was shining, there was a very light breeze, and it was in the upper 70's. Perfection. I was right about to put my IPod on and thought, no, I want to listen to the day. At first I thought I was just trying to be like the movie August Rush (that I saw the night before), but when I spoke to Neil later on that day he said exactly what I thought - so I knew then I was just appreciating the beautiful day.

I rushed home after work to get my sleepover bag to stay at Carolina's for the weekend. Nick met me at Columbus Circle (where we get off to get to the apartment) and I was, again, stunned by the beauty of the NYC. Here's a picture of that evening.

At the apartment we decided to make some drinks and play cards. It was Carolina, Nick and I, then later on Anne Marie showed up and she joined. At first we were playing VC then later changed to a drinking game. Uh-oh...here's the picture of the table, and us after a few drinks...

The next day Carolina, Neil, Nick, and I went to Brooklyn. We found a White Castle and ate there. I ate because I was hungry, but, ummm, no me gusto. It is definitely drunk food. We went to Soho after and it was crazy packed. I kept picturing my sister and I shopping around and finding great clothes and then I realized I really don't have the money for that yet. Haha..that's ok though, it will come soon enough!

We went out for dinner and drinks on Saturday as a "Going Away" celebration for Anne Marie who is moving to California.

Neil being silly drinking with a long straw from a small cup.

Neil and Carolina, the lovebirds.

Anne Marie, Me, and Krista drinking from the fish bowl.

Nick and Krista dancing and being silly.

I LOVE NYC

Some news....

2008-04-19T21:44:00.005-04:00

Jimmy and I broke up a few weeks ago. BUT I'm great. I'm happy that we're on the right paths to our futures. He is a wonderful person and am thankful for the time we had. I definitely learned from him and learned about myself.

I'm happy because I was brave enough to realize the truth and face it. So, I am doing great and feeling wonderful. I love where I am now - location wise, but emotionally and spiritually too.

I'm reading "Tuesdays With Morrie" by Mitch Albom and I love these quotes.

The most important thing in life is to learn how to give out love, and to let it come in.

and...

Sometimes you cannot believe what you see, you have to believe what you feel. (Dang, that's a good one....)

2 Month Anniversary!

2008-04-17T14:52:00.002-04:00

Today is my 2-month anniversary living here in NY. Incredible how time flies and whizzes by so quickly. I am so happy and I know I will be here for awhile. The only way I will leave here is if some crazy opportunity comes up elsewhere or if something unfortunate happens - let's not think about that.

I think New York is amazing for so many reasons, but a favorite one is that you're challenged everyday. And I like being challenged. When I am not I get bored. Daily challenges? They're not necessarily big ones and of course it depends on the person. And it depends on your mood that day.

Challenges I come to face with:

the wind (sometimes I am being pushed by the wind and usually I laugh at myself)
the smells in the subway (if I have a scarf on I'll put it over my nose and mouth, but then my crazy imagination will start picturing the cause of the smells - and those aren't pretty pictures. So that's another challenge because I now have to get rid of this gross picture in my mind.)
going up or down steep stairs (these are everywhere! Iif I have heels on I'm more cautious. Many times I thank God for already giving me the energy (i.e. being in some sort of good shape) before I moved here to go up and down these stairs because if not, it would have been tough)
getting stuck behind slow walking people (I am an official New Yorker because at first it did not bother me but now I just want to kick them in the back of their knees. LOL...I know, that's bad but I'm just being honest, that's what I want to do)
the pinche ferry to Staten Island (pinche is peen (long e) then che (as in che guavara); that's a Mexican slang term used to complain about something, kind of like "stupid ferry"; so the ferry, I have to make my schedule around the ferry's. Ugh...so annoying)
the crowds at the terminal for the SI ferry (I thought about typing "enough said" but decided to give you a thoought/concern of mine....in the summer when it's hot and people are sweating...what is the smell going to be like when waiting at the terminal? Gross! The terminal is not gross, it's nice, air conditioned, modern, etc...but a crowd is a crowd, and you know some people will smell bad.)
puddles (ha! sometimes I have to jump over a puddle because there is no way around it. And sometimes I have to decide where in the puddle I will step, and have to get my shoe wet, to try to give me an extra step to cross over it. Sometimes I imagine a handsome gentleman stopping to pick me up to cross me over the puddle....haha..yeah right! Like that will ever happen. Well, actually I could see a New York bachelor doing that but the question is "can he pick me up?" haha)
wanting to look cute vs. being comfortable (sometimes I think way too hard and long about this)

I love New York and I wil have one more reason to love next week when Maritza gets here. Maritza is a best friend of mine and we keep saying thet M&M is going to take NYC by storm! LOL.....we're just being silly. I'll add some pictures soon.

Me Gusta NYC!

Monday night...

2008-04-14T22:46:00.002-04:00

I haven't posted in a week. I realized today that I have been here for 2 months (on Thursday)...crazy! I am having such a great time and loving it so far. Work is great, my studio is wonderful (minus the ferry), my friends are fun and I love them - I'm happy. Some life events have come up recently, but I'll talk about those at a later time.

I just wanted to give y'all a quick hello and say that I am doing great and am happy.

My walk to work and back to the ferry

2008-04-07T21:06:00.007-04:00

Now you'll see why my NY commute is a million times better than driving for an hour on I-10.

My building. It's right behind Ground Zero.

That's New Jersey, right across the harbor.
My walk is starts here. The Statue of Liberty is itty-bitty on the right side.

Random pretty thing/sculpture...I don't know, what do you call it?

New York Korean War Veterans Memorial

Colombia supported Korea.

And, of couse, the USA did too.

Cute, huh?

There's the ferry. Almost there.

There's the Statue of Liberty.

Carol's Birthday

2008-04-07T20:54:00.002-04:00

Carol's 26th birthday is today the 7th but we celebrated over the weekend. We went over to her roommate, Krista's, boyfriend's place to watch a final four game, had pre-party drinks, and went to a club. I think it was Wet Bar. We had a good time and of course lots of laughs (and...err...drinks). I'm so happy that I was able to celebrate with her after few years of not.

Nick and I at the apartment.

Neil and Carolina.....lovebirds

Me, Ben, Krista, Carolina, and Abe....not sure if he was being silly or just not ready (or maybe that's how he likes to pose).

Monday morning

2008-04-07T10:11:00.003-04:00

I had a nice walk to work this morning. I got on the 7:45 ferry and by 8:20ish I was walking in Battery Park with my cinnamon dolce latte. On nice mornings I have been walking up the park, alongside the Hudson, taking in the peace and quiet. They are a few runners and people walking their dogs. It's so weird because if I take the subway up 2 stops and then walk 2 blocks to work I go through crazy NY chaos. Tons of people starting their days and rushing through the streets and the subway system. But when I leisurely walk 15/20 minutes, it's quiet. The water makes a soothing sound and hearing the ferry's horn makes me smile, watching dogs walking happily makes me happy, and seeing babies in their running strollers with their parents baby talking to them makes me miss my nephew and nieces - it's so different from the subway commute where I even get a little stressed. I love the way NYC is just filled with tons and tons of different moments and moods.

My first week at work!!!!!

2008-04-05T15:03:00.003-04:00

I started working! Yea!!!! I am very happy to be working at the American Express headquarters. I am not a full-time employee YET. This is a long-term temp-to-perm job and it will take a few months to a year to be offered a permanent position there. Basically, I am working full-time with no benefits. And I'm ok with it. Companies do this for a few reasons: not to have to give benefits; to get rid of people who aren't great employees; and now, with our bad economy, it's a way to be economical.

So what do I hope for? I hope to kick ass and for my contract to be extended after my 3 month review and eventually become a full-time employee of AMEX. But, we'll see what God has planned for me.

What am I doing? I have no idea. Haha...no seriously, though, all I can say now is that I am part of the Customer Development department and am working in the Organzational Strategy team, supporting managers, a director, and the VP. I had a few projects this week and was happy to be using my skills! But Friday was awful!

Not cuz of work, but because we went out on Thursday. I thought I would be on my home at 9:30 or so, and I had a meeting for my sorority! But I missed my meeting and did not get home (Carol's place) till 2:30 in the morning! We (me, Carol, Nick, Carol's roomie, Krista, and others) had a blast and I met some of her friends from law school. We drank some but what gave me my little hang over Friday morning was the tequila shot. Oh no!!!

So I was exhausted at work! And I wore the same gray pants I wore Thursday - haha....I borrowed a shirt and necklace from Carol. LOL...good times. Tonight we're going out to celebrate Carol's 26th birthday. Can't wait!

Karaoke Night

2008-04-05T14:44:00.004-04:00

Last Saturday night my sorority sister, Sandra, invited me to go out with her, her boyfriend, and their friends. We had yummy Korean dinner and went out to karaoke after. We hung out at Korea Town (or K-town). I sang a few songs but Hieu, Sandra's boyfriend, and their friend, Alex, were the performers that night. They were hilarious. We had a great time and I was very happy to get out.

Movies I saw this weekend

2008-03-30T18:43:00.002-04:00

Friday:
Why Did I Get Married? (Soooo good!!!!! Singles and couples should watch this and discuss after. SO good!)
Broken English (Good indie film. If you don't like indie, slow and quiet movies, then you won't like it)
Le Divorce (My 20th time seeing it I have the DVD. I obviously like it a lot.)
Pretty In Pink (Uhh..classic 80's movie!)
Serendipity (Uhh...I've probably seen this one over 30 times...haha....me gusta!)
The Little Mermaid (only 1/2; I love this one a lot. I saw it at the theater when I was little and I had the VHS and now the DVD)

That's right, I saw 5.5 movies in one day.... I was productive in the AM though!

Sunday:
The Upside of Anger (Good movie, worth watching.)
Saving Face (Haha..another indie. Was more than I expected but I liked it.)
Mrs. Henderson Presents (About to watch now)

I went to the library after church and checked out these movies today. I start work tomorrow so I deserve vegging out for the afternoon and evening. : )

Uh-oh....I feel like Miranda from Sex and the City

2008-03-28T20:56:00.002-04:00

Friday night, alone in my studio, a bottle of wine with my name written on it....ordered pizza from my favorite place. I gave my address and the man said "Ok, eehhh, studio on the right side, si?" Me: "Uhhh...si...uhh, gratzi" We hung up and I laughed out of embarassment!!!

As it is my last day of being unemployed (I start at American Express on Monday) I was lazy in the PM till now, after I had to get an important project completed. I watched 2 movies, one being Broken English, an indie film starring Parker Posey. I laughed during a scene that showed her alone at the subway, alone at the park, alone eating dinner, alone in her bed, alone, alone, and alone - it was me! Alone almost all the time..haha. And she had a best friend who was so sweet and who would invite her over - that's like my friends here, so sweet and thoughtful.

Pizza should be here soon. Mi piace la pizza da italianis...

A day off...wait, I'm still upemployed.

2008-03-28T12:07:00.009-04:00

Wednesday I had plans to meet with Nick. We ate at a diner and went to Central Park after. The weather was great, a little chilly, but not too cold, not windy, sun was out - so great. Central Park was wonderful, of course, for the beauty and tranquility. It is just amazing how you can sit in the park and see the tall buildings and not hear cars or any hectic noise.

Here's an acrobat we saw when walking into the park at Columbus Circle.

Spring is definitely here. Plants and flowers are blooming and it looks so pretty. I love seeing the plants and flowers growing out of the dirt and trying to bloom. I can't remember ever seeing that in Houston. Maybe that's because I didn't look for it or didn't care. Here are pictures of the park, spring is on its way, and Nick and I.

I really appreciate the way New York motivates the city to recycle. There are recycling bins for plastic, glass, and paper at almost every corner. The whole city recycles and it's not because of this "Go Green" trend, it's been like this for awhile now. What I appreciate is that the city recycles as a whole and as a community, but the city still advertises/motivates to/the people to keep recycling. When trash is thrown out you're supposed to put trash in dark bags and recyclable items in clear bags. The cool thing I've noticed is that in front of my home and the others on my street, there are more clear bags than dark ones. WHICH MEANS, we have more items to recycle than to throw away. Question for you....Do you recycle at home and at work? Yes, then great! No, why not? It that a really good reason or is it an excuse? Are you willing to try?

Yoga and a haircut

2008-03-25T20:05:00.006-04:00

I started yoga yesterday and liked it A LOT. It was hard physically, but even more mentally. It'a crazy how an individual is not in touch with their body. When the instructor said, "Spread your toes slowly. Press your heel down to the room below. Stretch your big toe to the wall of opposite of you," I couldn't. I had to think about my toes and feet and then became to realize how it was affecting my ankle and shin. It was weird to try to be one with your own body!

Then we mediated at the end I couldn't believe the million thoughts I have! I've always known that I have a vivid imagination and am very creative - and that I have a busy life, but, my goodness! My mind can't be completely blank. So when we were meditating I was actually a little jealous of men. No offense guys on stereotyping you, but if you are really capable of thinking about nothing or just sex, then dang - that sounds good to me! Haha...seriously though, a million thoughts were in my mind! So what is meditating? It ws my first time and we were instructed to keep our eyes open and to focus on a spot on the wooden floor a foot or 2 in front of us. We had to count, 1-2-3.... and when you got lost in a thought you had to start over again at 1. I couldn't even get to 2, no lie! I was drowning in thoughts. Then I finally made it to 6 and I thought "Yes! I made it to 6!" But then, I had to start over again. Ugh....It wasn't stressful though, it was illuminating.

I cut my hair today! Just a 2-inch trim but nice. I love getting haircuts. I was thinking I would have to wait a few months to cut my hair short like I want to donate to Locks of Love. You need to have a ponytail that is 11 to 12 inches long, which mean put my hair in a ponytail and cut it on top of the rubberband, so the hair is attached firmly together. BUT I learned about a new program from Pantene today called Beautful Lengths and they only require a minimum of 8 inches! So I will probably go that route instead.

I met with my sorority sister/guardian angel, Sandra today. We met at 2ish and had a late lunch at Whole Foods (I love the mac-n-cheese!), walked to Washington Square Park, back to Union Square, and to Barnes and Noble. I LOVE the Washington Square Park/NYU area. Ugh...I loved it. We visited Will Smith's house in the movie I Am Legend. The brownstones reminded me of The Cosby Show. It is just so CUTE and my name is written all over that area!

Easter Weekend

2008-03-23T22:34:00.005-04:00

Today, Easter, could have been tough by being away from family and the kids, but I was ok because I was with best friends. Thursday I was all sad and crying over Jimmy - I know, pathetic. Friday I never stepped outside because I was working on a sorority project. So when Saturday came up and I woke up at noon! I had to get out. I decided to go running and ran/walked 4miles and got lost. I cried. Ha! But I found a bus that I knew would take me home so I was fine. I was going to meet up with a sorority sister and her family but I decided not to because my money is running out and I had plans for Sunday already, so I stayed in. (Every dollar really counts now)

I was definitely lonely the first few weeks here but with Jimmy visiting and leaving, it kind of made this loneliless twice as bad. I can't wait to start working! I'll update you on that tomorrow.

Today I met with Winnie (college roommate/best friend), Andrew (her fiance), Carolina (college roommate/best friend/friend since middle school), Neil (her boyfriend, soon to be fiance), and Nick (Carolina's little brother who I love so much). We all met at Winnie's place in Brooklyn (in the Borough Hall neighborhood. I love it!) and went to her and Andrew's church. Mass was great and I really enjoyed the priest. We had brunch after and drank endless mimosas. Heehee, me gusta endless mimosas! We then hung out at Winnie's; played Taboo and watched college basketball. I bought a lamp from a yard sale and had to walk a few blocks to the subway, get on the subway, take the ferry....and people were staring at me and even some kind of giggled. I thought, "Seriously? A person carrying a lamp in NYC is funny or odd?" It was just weird to get that kind of reaction.

I do want to make a quick shoutout to the Almighty God! The sermon was great today and even though I count my blessings everyday, today I felt overjoyed with the love of God. I thank you Lord for being so awesome and for opening this new chapter in my life. I only ask for your guidance and your love to surround my parents, my sister and her family, Jimmy and his family, and my friends and their children who I love so much.

The boys: Andrew, Nick, and Neil

Just 24 hours away from being alone again...

2008-03-19T22:38:00.003-04:00

It has been a GREAT week with Jimmy. We had a fun weekend celebrating his 33rd birthday and spent almost every minute together. It's sad that it is now coming to an end. He leaves tomorrow, Thursday, in the afternoon, so tomorrow night I will be solo in my bed. UGH...just thinking of it chokes me up.

What did we do? we went to happy hour at a Colombian/Mexican restaurant; walked up 5th avenue; went to Times Square; went grocery shopping for my first major list; ate pizza; went to a Tapas restaurant with friends and had yummy tapas and sangria; went to a club and drank some more; watched church online; saw 10,000BC; ran to the ferry twice and made it both times, went to the St.Patrick's Day parade; froze outside; ate pizza; went to Tiffany's on 5th avenue, went to Little Italy; had dinner there and had some more yummy sangria; went to Soho; went to Carol and Neil's to watch the Rockets lose; ate pizza; went to 34th street to see the circus come into town; bummed out all day today - our last day.

Good times, good times. We thank God for giving this week to us.

Tomorrow, Tomorrow, I'll Love Ya! Tomorrow! It's Only A Day Away!

2008-03-12T23:00:00.002-04:00

What a week since my last blog! This past weekend was fun and this week has been passing quickly. Carolina and Nick came over on Saturday and we had dinners and many drinks at Chili's; then talked, talked, and talked till 6AM. Then we were bad and woke up at noon on Sunday, and yup, did not make it to church. I'll be there this Sunday though!

And by my side at church will be Jimmy! He will be here tomorrow on Thursday! But more about this week.

I began temping this week and it is so funny how some recruiters ask questions like "So, are you still interested in a full-time or long-term temp?" I think "Ummm...yeah, but I need to make some cash!" So my Monday job was awful! I was in a large filing closet, filing. Ugh. My cuticles looked sooooo bad. Then on Tuesday I began at a Real Estate developing company. I'm working in HR and organizing their old files into their new database. It could be bad but because I get to read the emails of senior executives I enjoy it. It's just interesting to see how the head honchos speak to each other and discuss candidates. And very interesting to read the negotiation process! Enough about that.... I'm sad because I will be working on Monday, Jimmy's birthday, and the St Patrick's parade.......Boooooo..... I just want to celebrate with Jimmy, go to the parade and start drinking beer with him at noon. Haha! Awww...man

I also got lost for my first time on Monday....I was so frustrated. Very frustrated with the 3 cops that gave me bad directions! ugh..... I got on the wrong train, then got lost on Downtown... So bad. And I forgot my map at home. What tha?

Last week I had 3 interviews. One has said No, but I was great and nice and it's obvious that I am a hardworker - blah, blah, blah.... The other 2 have asked for second interviews and I had one today. I really hope to get an offer for the one of today. It's for a long-term temp job, but it's a great opportunity to get into a great company. Please pray for me. Not to get a job, but a job that I will enjoy and succeed in.

I can't wait for tomorrow!!!!!!!

Party of 1 on Staten Island

2008-03-07T23:05:00.002-05:00

It's raining this evening and let me tell you something I've noticed. New Yorkers kind of make a big deal about the rain, well , maybe it's just the weathercasters. They talk about the wind, the heavy rains, how you should get home quickly.....and then it just rains and its nothing compared to the storms we have in Houston!

So it's a party of 1 evening! Me, alone, in my studio, eating delicious NY pizza, cheap wine from the corner store, and movies on tv! I don't feel lonely, but it would be nice to have some company.

My Friday adventure: I went to the Staten Island mall and was impressed. I am very happy with the stores and with the bus ride there. I decided not to read so I could look aroun and see what was around the bus line. I was very happy to have found Barnes & Noble, Linens N Things, Chili's, a large grocery store named ShopRite, and maybe 10 Starbucks, and around 30 Dunkin Donuts. (Seriously, do we need that many SB's and DD's?)

I had 2 phone interviews today. And 1 yesterday. YEA! I feel great about the 3 and have been scheduled for a second interview for next week. I really think I will be called for the other 2. They are all nice opportunities and I feel blessed for just having them. When I spoke to recruiter of mine she had already received feedback from the interview and she said I was articulate and way better fit than the other candidate. Coooool for me!

A few hours later I was dancing around my studio to Destiny's Child and was laughing because I thought "My goodness. I'm happy my interviewers can't seem me!" And real quickly - Last night's dream was so much fun. It was me, Leila (my 2-year old niece), and Addison (my other 2-year old niece, well, kind of, she's really my sister's niece)....well, the 3 of us were dancing around to Destiny Child's songs. The little ones were laughing and dacing like toddlers do and we were having such a great time. When I started to wake up I was sad. that the good times were ending.

And great news for my dear friend Marleny and her family. Katherine's bone marrow is now 99.9% clear from cancer cells! Praise our Almighty Lord! Go to http://allingodshands.blogspot.com/ to read about it. Thank you friends for your prayers!

My 2-Week Anniversary!

2008-03-02T22:14:00.010-05:00

It's been 2 weeks since my arrival! Funny, because it's not a long time, but it is half a month. I really hope I start temping this week to make some money and I hope even more that I get called for an interview or 2.

So 2 weeks already! So far so good. I have had homesick feelings, but not sad, I-want-to-go-home feelings, more like I'm-lonely feeelings. Plus I miss Jimmy A LOT. I realized I wasn't just with Jimmy on my spare time, he was my spare time. Sure, we did great, in my opinion, at doing our own plans and not always being together, but we were with each other a lot. And when I think too much about my parents I want to cry. Especially in the morning when I don't have my dad being so nice to me asking what I want for breakfast. Or when it's the evening and I don't see my mom and get to talk to her face-to-face. And I have to fight the tears when I think of the kids! Aaagh! I'm so sad when I think of them! I love my babies. And, I get sad to think I cant play with Leila or get a hug from Ava or hear her say TIA! and run to me....and I miss Noah and not being able to bother and annoy with him with kisses, that he barely tries to fight against. It's weird to think I won't see my sister rushing in to the house and looking at her while talking on her crackberry talking business.

BUT, it's nice being alone most of the time. I thought about my sister today when I was rushing to get ready. I jumped out of bed and into my bathroom (I really did. Remember that I live in a studio). Anyways, so I quickly showered, took my vitamins, got dressed, decided to leave my hair wet, etc....I thought, "Wow, Cathy has know idea how this feels." She has no idea how it is to only be responsible for one. She's responsible for 4 people! 3 children and a husband! And it made me think of all the other women (and some men) that have no real idea how it is to only take care of oneself. Sure they once only had themselves to think about, but those feelings are long gone so almost impossibly to really feel and understand. My assumption of course.

Anyways, so I had a nice weekend. Friday, on leap day, I met up with my sorority sister/guardian angel, Sandra. I went to her and her boyfriend's place, which was ADORABLE! Just a few blocks from Times Square, can you imagine?! Well, we had pizza at the first pizzeria in America and then went to The MoMA, the museum of modern art. I had a great time at the museum and was in love with pieces of ...

On Sunday, I went to Brooklyn and hung out with Winnie, my college roommate/a best friend. We had brunch and then she showed me around her neighborhood. She took me to see Heath Ledger's house, where Michelle Williams still lives. It made me sad all over again because I liked him so much.

I LOVED the neighborhoods we walked through in Brooklyn. I will not be surprised if I move there after Staten Island. It was perfection. Everything you need is right there and it made me think of Sesame Street. It was full of young adults in their mid 20's to 40's and cute babies and kids all bundled up.

Monday: Search and search for jobs.....write cover letter after cover letter...apply over and over again.

The Power of Oprah

2008-02-29T09:22:00.002-05:00

The power of Oprah - on her show last Wednesday, there was mention of a Brooks Brothers no-iron women's shirt. After the 4p airing in NYC that day and thru the next, just the mid-town store of Brooks Brothers sold more than 5,000 of these shirts.
~From the Cynopsis listserve
And I went looking for a shirt but decided to find a job first before I made an expensive purchase. Can you believe? 2 days and 5,000 shirts sold in one store. Amazing

Me gusta Broadway

2008-02-29T01:07:00.006-05:00

I didn't have the most productive day. I think I was feeling a little burned out from reading a gazillion job ads, writing cover letter after cover letter, and applying to jobs that I'm completely qualified for and would be great at and know most likely, I will not get a call back. So my day was not that productive.

BUT, I did go see a Broadway performance, "Cat On A Hot Tin Roof". I went with Carolina, Nicholas, and Mrs. Gonzalez.

It was the full star cast. Terrence Howard, is quite the hottie in real life, I enjoyed his 2 costumes, a white bath robe then white silk pajamas. Clair Huxtable, Phylicia Rashad was fantastic! The infamous, James Earl Jones, was amazing. And Anika Noni Rose was great; she's the one from Dreamgirls and The Starter Wife.

We had great seats, orchestra right in the middle. Perfect view. The play was great and I find it incredible how these real actors have the ability to remember all the lines and stay in character the whole time.

I'm pretty happy that I went to my first show as a New Yorker in less than 2 weeks from being here. On the ferry I was thinking about the many times I've heard people say they never explored or discovered the city they lived in. I promised myself I would explore NYC and go everywhere! I don't know how long that will take, but I can reach that goal.

Prayer Request: To help me find a job that I will enjoy and be good at (and for Nick too). Another prayer request, a way more important one, for a friend's young daughter who has leukemia to have strength and to show us what a miracle really is.

A New York Moment

2008-02-28T01:10:00.000-05:00

So far I have seen "only in New York" moments many times a day. From the trendy clothes to the teenagers with too much freedom (in my opinion) to the F bombs I constantly hear and to my specific topic - the ferry to Staten Island.

The ferry is free and runs 24 hours. During rush hour it runs every 15 minutes or so, it slows down later in the morning and early afternoon, then picks up again during the evening rush hour. The crazy thing is that it runs almost perfectly on schedule. If the schedule says it will depart from SI at 1:00 pm, it will board at 12:55 and depart at 1:00. So I have to get there at least 6 minutes before departure.

Here's the NY moment..... on Thursday evening I hung out at my sorority sister's, Victoria, apartment on the Upper West Side. I left at 8:15 hoping to catch the 9:00 ferry. I took the 1 train and the timing was perfect until we stopped for no reason. At that moment I began to think "oh no....I'm not going to make it and will have to wait another half hour. dangit." Well, the train arrived at the SI ferry stop at 9:01. I was ready to run just in case it was still there but was embarrassed to. (I'm allowed to be shy right now and especially then like I had only been here for a few days). Well, the doors opened and people jumped and ran out of the trains! So I followed and ran, and ran up the stairs, skipping a step at a time. I was then running next to a tall guy and he looked down at me and asked "hey, how are you up here with me?" I said, "I ran a marathon earlier this year." He smiled and replied with, "Huh. Cool." The ferry workers were right about to close the doors until they saw us two and a whole group of people behind us. They shouted, "Hurry up! We're already running late!"

So the ferry happened to be late but was able to board 100 people or so at the very last second. I was laughing and was impressed with how these people could run up stairs so quickly. I mean we have to go up two flights from the subway to the ferry station, then up another flight to get the waiting/boarding area.

It also made me realize why New Yorkers are thinner compared to Southerners.

It might snow again tonight! It's currently 21 degrees. Brrrrrr...for me (Thank You Meli for giving me your big warm coat!)

My 10th Day, My 1st Blog

2008-02-27T12:14:00.000-05:00

This is my first blog and I am very excited to have an easy and efficient way to keep all my loved ones updated. 10 days ago I got on a plane to start this new chapter in my life - my move to New York City!

The Frequently Asked Questions are:

Why the move? or Why NYC? It's been a dream of mine since elementary school. When we were asked to write a report or make a presentation about a state or city, I always chose New York. My curiosity came from my parents' past. When they came from Colombia, as singles, they came her and met here, married here, and had my big sister, Cathy, here. So naturally for me I had always wondered about NYC. Then, when my sister and Leo, her husband, brought me to NYC for New Year's '99 and I fell in love!

Do you have a job? No. Haha....I am currently unemployed and am searching for a J-O-B. I am signed up with 3 stafing agencies so far and I feel like things are going well. I will start temping real soon just to make sure the money is coming in. What am I looking for? I love fundraising and event planning for non-profits and if a great opportunity comes up I'll go for it, but I would really like to get in a corporate job with marketing and event planning.

What about Jimmy (my boyfriend)? He's great and very supportive! We know long-distance is tough but we also believe in God and His plan. Our relationship is in God's hands and we have patience to wait to see what will happen. Jimmy will be visiting in a few weeks and I can't wait to see him.

Have you found a place to live? YES! Thank the Lord, for my sorority sister, Sandra. She has been so good and supportive to me with this move. She understands because she made the same move 2 years ago. Well, she moved in with her boyfriend and I moved into her old place. I have a very cute and large (in my opinion when compared to NY standards) studio. The landlords are super sweet and my rent is cheap! I thank God for this huge blessing.... The studio is the basement of the family's house and it's on Staten Island. The ferry is walking distance away, free to ride, and only 25 minutes to the city. And hey, being on the ferry looking at the Statue of Liberty will beat traffic on I-10 any day!

Why now though? Aren't you happy with your job at The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and happy with your boyfriend? I did love my job at LLS and I am very happy and love my Jimmy*, but I prayed about this and God gave me only one answer - move to NYC in 2008. I only feel peace about my move, so it must be right. Anyways, when God says jump, you jump. And God said move in February, so I moved in February. (*I am fully aware I put "my Jimmy")

So here's the house I live under. I live on the right side (as you are looking at it). The first picture was when I first arrived and the picture to its side was on Friday morning. It was my first time to see snow falling. It was a beautiful sight! I woke up at 6AM that morning and opened the door to see if it was snowing - just like a child would.

I hope to keep up with this blog to keep ya'll updated. Thank you for your great support and May God Bless Your family with love, happiness, and good health!

I miss you mami & papi! I love you Jimmy! I miss you Conde clan (especially Ava's hugs)!