Living Life Half Full....

NEW BLOG SITE

2009-12-15T19:36:00.001-08:00

Yes, I've done it again...

I'm blog hopping. This one isn't dead, per say...but I will probably not use it very often.

Come join me at my new blog:

http://kassaundra.tumblr.com/

Sorry I am so infrequent, I hope to blog more now!

xoxo

Kass

Ear Hustling- Roman Tragedy

2009-08-05T13:15:00.000-07:00

Scene: Blockheads in Murray Hill

*clucker1 : "Rome is so overrated"

clucker 2: "OMG, seriously!"

apathetic boyfriend: "Wait, what, I loved it when I went during college "

clucker 1: "All you do is walk around and around and around"

clucker 2: "They say Piazza this ,Piazza that, all they are is boring cement. Then the steps of Rome, are seriously JUST steps. These poor people need to come to New York to see what real night life action is like"

clucker 1: "uh- huh!" (imagine said with attitude)

apathetic boyfriend: "I gotta take a leak. "

* clucker denotes a female with a high shrilly voice that you can just imagine nagging a husband or child to death with. Sorry to sound so harsh to my own gender, but there is no excuse for a clucker voice. (shuddering at the memory)

Rome was much more then piazzas for the record.

P.S.

2009-08-05T13:11:00.001-07:00

Yes I'm back....and will be back in blog action shortly.

New relationships take work

2009-08-05T12:58:00.000-07:00

I admit it, My grandma is right. She always says everything is better at home, meaning San Francisco. (Politics aside of course, were talking about my fox news loving Nanny)

So I've been back in New York for about four full days and I dont get the weather. Everything is simpler in California: When it rains, it is wet, when the sun is out, it is hot, when it snows, oh wait it never snows. See, just another reason why California kick's east coast ass. Here I wake up, look outside, and have no idea how to dress. They speak of thunder storms coming in the afternoon, ok so I pack an umbrella. But then you feel the muggy air that is warm, thick, and suffocating. I feel like I'm walking around in a moist cloud, and this cloud has no silver lining.

So there I was today, walking to get my coffee....and I feel a direct breeze, yet I'm sweating. I just don't get it. New York you confuse me, and Ive lived through one of your horrid dank summers before, but I was 20 and had the glow of being in New York for the first time. Fast forward 7 more years, and I'm less amused by your muggy ways.

All I ask is that you be straight forward with me. If you want it to be hot, fine then...bring out your big glaring sun and help me stay tan. If you want it to rain, fine then....thunder and be gray and cool...dare I say cold?

Please stop playing games with my umbrella, sweat glands, and flip flops.

If this relationship is going to make it, I need a little more clear communication on your side.

My thoughts exactly Mr. Graffiti Vandal

Cape sunion

2009-06-26T00:12:00.000-07:00

Famous for the dramatic temple of Poseidon, God of the water, Cape Sunion boats beautiful sunsets that bring people from all over the world to end their day here.

We loaded into a bus the Wednesday that Jennie arrived, and drove out to the pretty spot.

We picnicked, toasted, and applauded the beautiful sunset.

Life is good in Greece!

Kassaundra

Outdoor Cinema at its finest!

2009-06-17T15:30:00.000-07:00

Disclaimer- I apologize for saying the U.S. is boring. I was too fiesty, and too inspired by the Acropolis to the left.

Basically we watched a movie on the roof of this building in the plaka, which is the cutest neighborhood in Athens. The Acropolis was glowing in the night to our left, the sun set at Matthew McConaughey played the leading role, and we swooned at the perfection of this monday night.

I heart this city.

Long Lost Blogger

2009-06-02T05:19:00.000-07:00

Ok yes I am oficially a delinquent, and part of it is because I have had so much wonderful stuff happen that I want to blog about, and I hate being out of order, and so I've just let it pile up. I will try to go back and share some of the fun stuff I have been up to like My visit back to SF, David and Sarah's wedding in Vancouver, Cinco de Drinko at Tres Agaves, Boston with the coopers, Aubrey visiting New York, Central Park Picnics, Brea and Nathan's wedding weekend in Boston, and more....

In the meantime if you didn't know....Yesterday I flew to Athens, Greece!

Thats right, I am in the beautiful country of Greece and staying in the cutest apartment, on the cutest street, and in the cutest area (plaka) of Athens.

I am a very happy girl.

We've already had a walking tour of the local area, eaten at a Greek Taverna, and I've even had a few Greek men express their errr appreciation of having me visit. ;)

here are some pictures from my first two days

The view of some ruins from the end of my street

My new haircut from the Devach salon specializing in curly hair is serving me well here!

The view of the acropolis from dinner

somewhere important ;)

The perfect to ending to my first day here....A little nightcap with Jose.

You can expect many blogs about Greece.

The adventure has just started....

Hope the start of summer is treating you all well.

xoxo

Surviving the rain

2009-04-22T07:52:00.001-07:00

Last weekend was such a tease. Beautiful weather clocking in at 76 degrees, that is what I call perfection. Apparently New York gets two months of this nice weather at most, otherwise its muggy miserable heat or sleet and snow. I have a lot to look forward to apparently. It has been pouring the last few days and we even had some intense thunderstorms. The weather is manic.

Anyway its supposed to reach 80 degrees on Friday and Saturday, and I cant wait to be outside. I will find some hip rooftop to dwell on Friday night and am brunching outdoors this Saturday with friends. Then I will board a Boston bound bus to celebrate Brea at her bridal shower.

Good times, good times.

Cardigan Weather

2009-04-17T08:13:00.001-07:00

I love that today is Friday, I love that Spring is finally in the air and that all I had to wear today was a light pink cardigan. No scarf, no heavy jacket, no light jacket, no umbrella, no gloves, only me and a sweater against the slight spring chill.

It's supposed to be in the 70's this weekend, and where will I be? Inside both Saturday and Sunday at a work conference, a nerdy conference at that. Will share later about my "Reenacting the past," and "Galileo Games" experience.

Just know that in involves role playing, debates, trials, and me doing some major last minute homework and preparation tonight. Of course, After I meet up with Amy and Sara at Mojave for mouth watering margaritas and a Friday night in Astoria.

New music is on my ipod thanks to Dina, Steph, and Archibald, new headphones are in my ears thanks to Jennie, and there is a new spring to my step.

Peace out winter,

Kass

Ironically I haven't been to central park yet since I moved here, I have been there on previous visits, but now need to log in some major sun time there.

10 years in the making

2009-04-14T21:02:00.000-07:00

One of the beautiful things about living in New York vs. Mexico is that you don't really have to convince friends to visit you, because who doesn't want to come visit New York? Also there are so many people who live here, odds are that you already know someone in this city, and get to rediscover them.

For the record I feel so lucky that I had so many wonderful people visit in Mexico last year:

Mom (twice)

Nanny

Rachel

Jennie (twice)

Jen

Ann

Aubrey

Ashley

Nick

Am I lucky or what?

Anyway back to current time and place, New York. So Facebook is this amazing social took, because it lets you see what people are doing with their lives, where they live, and where they plan to visit. Ali who has been featured in one of my prior blogs, and I went to high school together. We had brunch my first weekend here, and then have both been busy and weren't able to get back together yet.

Well Jill another girl I went to high school with and I became facebook friends a few years back. Many wall posts, and photo comments later, she told me she was coming to new york for a week, and was going to stay with Ali. I hadn't seen Jill since graduation day I guess, back in 1999. ha.

Dinner plans were immediately formed, and then sadly canceled due to me having a cold. bleh. It was one of those things where we had plans for her first night here, then we rescheduled for the following night, cancelled again, and our last hope was Friday night.

Well we met up at Blockheads, home of the always cheap $3 delicious margarita. Hours later Ali joined us, and had to catch up quickly. Basically there was a lot of story swapping, laughter, and even some spilled margaritas that required Jill to later have a dress change.

We contemplated what high school with facebook would have been like, and decided disastrous. We retold stories, remembered old gossip, and filled in the gaps to some other high school mysteries. All in all it was super fun and I wished I had known Jill better back then.

Right before the spill took place

Ali lives in Brooklyn heights

margaritas ensure happiness

It's nice to think though that 10 years later one can reconnect with fun girls, and pick up where you never even left off.

Cheers to SRHS alum in New York!

P.S. I should mention this was the same night that Jennie flew in and I had left my keys at my office. So I was locked out of my apartment, wasn't able to pick up my clothes in time at the laundrymat....so it was held hostage over night (including my pajamas), and jennie's flight ended up getting delayed till 4 am. It was quite the night. ha.

Frivelous Fruit

2009-04-14T20:40:00.000-07:00

Today was a good day

Nothing out of the ordinary really happened.

Last night I went to bed too late, woke up this morning too late, left my apartment too late, and got to work a little too late.

It drizzled all day long which gave me cabin fever. I don't even have an office window to look outside of, but today the indoor fluorescent lights got to me. I fidgeted, relied heavily on coffee and diet coke, and overall looked forward to 5 pm.

After work I joined a new gym and had my first work out there, and walked in the real rain. No more drizzling, it definitely started coming down. I also got to catch up with the blushing boston bride Brea while walking to new gym, and I love that we are finally in the same time zone.

The highlight of my day though for some silly reason was buying some apples, but not just any kind mind you, ROME apples. Why? Because I'll be in Italy this summer, do I really need a better reason?

I love getting joy from the little things.

Meet the Wilkinsons

2009-04-14T12:11:00.000-07:00

I'm in a small group through forefront church. The terms small groups and life groups are loved by Christians, it basically means a group of people who intentionally meet together to share in life together and read and discuss something. The bible still remains on the best selling list with most small groups, but ours is reading a book that is a commentary on the bible, and has provided really interesting conversations. We're reading: Adventures in missing the point by famous theologians Tony Campolo and Brian Mclaren. You better believe it touches on almost everything.

So anyway every Wednesday night you can find me off of 30th ave in Astoria having dinner with some small group ladies: Amy, Tawny, and Sara. Tawny says shes eating her way through the continents, I had to break it to her that after evenings with Thai and Indian food, she was still only in the Asia continent. ha.

Then we all head over to the fabulous home of the Wilkinson newlyweds, also known as Tristan and Melissa, and our life group leaders. Melissa is originally from Los Angeles, and Tristan is from BLO (means Buffalo NY, but I am in love with the abbreviation of BLO).

The Wilkonsons decided to throw a just because party, and so one Saturday night despite rain and gloomy weather I headed over there, and was excited to not have to head into Manhattan for the night. It felt so residential and neighborhoody to be able to hop off the train after two stops and stay in Astoria.

The boys settled in for a long night of poker, and the girls plus one brave husband drank girly drinks and played some rousing games of apples to apples and taboo.

Melissa working pearls and a tshirt. love it

Melissa makes yummy cosmo shots

I know it looks like we drank a lot, but really it wasn't that kind of party. ha

The boys playing poker

So turns out my friend Thelma who lives two blocks away from Melissa told me her roommate was having a party. He's part of this anarchist artist co-op etc etc etc. I decided to hop on over because it was so close by. They had two DJ's, a keg, and a lot of hipster 20 year olds. ha. It was definitely NOT my scene, but I am always up for randomness and being highly amused. So we danced some, watched the hipsters do keg stands, and were entertained with the donation guy. He was auctioning off jello shots, a little bit pushy with his donation jug, and even got someone to pay him $20 to do a keg stand. Annoying yes, but also highly effective.

My friend Thelma who lives in the apartment where the party was, couldn't go to bed till 6 am, I thankfully was home by 3:00 am. Gotta love random Saturday nights in Astoria!

Thelma and I on the dance floor, aka her living room.

The Donation guy

Lovin the skinny ties on the DJ's

One of the many keg stands I witnessed that night, and yes I felt fairly old.

I've made a name for myself in New York

2009-04-13T17:56:00.000-07:00

Easter Thoughts

2009-04-13T08:46:00.001-07:00

Any holiday in a new place is always interesting, it makes you take immediate inventory of your community, because you want to celebrate with someone. Easter thankfully is a holiday rooted in Christian faith and celebrated in the church, meaning it didn't matter who I knew, or how well I knew them. I so appreciated that the new church I attend, Forefront, which is made up of New York transplants, and some of the real deal born in New York kind I'm sure...thought to have an Easter dinner after their service.

I started my Easter morning happy to have sunshine after lots of rain on Saturday. My friend Victoria and I had a proper Easter brunch at Blue Water grill in the live jazz room. It felt fancy, festive, and just the right way to celebrate a lovely Spring morning. Girls had flowers in the hair, men wore pastels, and we sipped our bellinis.

Then later in the day I headed across town to the upper west side for Forefronts new Sunday evening service which is a better time, but quite a trek to get to from Astoria. It took me about an hour filled with two trains, and some city blocks to get there.

While on my way I was on the 1 train and encountered a typical New York happening, someone majorly down on their luck asking for help. A young woman in torn clothes and with dirty fingernails asking the train riders to help her get something to eat or drink. I held my lukewarm half filled coffee cup wondering if she would even want that, but felt bad offering something halfway finished. Everyone kept their eyes lowered and ipods turned up while she got increasingly more distraught. She started crying and just begged for someone to acknowledge her.

Wow I thought to myself, have we gotten so callous and apathetic, that there is a human being who is begging for her basic needs to be provided for...and we can't even acknowledge her. I struggled with wanting to look her in the eyes, yet had nothing solid to offer her....no cash, no food, or time. I wondered if I invited her to the church service and catered Easter dinner after, what she would do.

She made her way down the train and some people at the end offered her a sandwich and McDonald's hamburger that hadn't been touched yet. She gratefully took them, and then revealed a smile that showed how young she must really be. I sat there with my heart beating quickly feeling like an impostor.

Here I was going to church on Easter Sunday because I believe in a living God of hope, yet I was there powerless and selfish, offering this broken girl...nothing. I sat there frozen wondering what truly Jesus would do. As soon as the young girl exited the train, another homeless individual entered, and started his schpeal. He pleaded for money to buy dinner, and I could see everyone silently groaning, thinking to themselves...here we go again.

I again wondered what Jesus would do. How can one individual always be able to help every person in need in a positive way. I could have offered that girl the food I was carrying, and then be empty handed for the next gentleman. I know that every person matters, and that its better to give what you can, than to be overwhelmed by it all and do nothing.

I guess I'm just saying on Easter Sunday, when one wants to believe with all of their beating heart in Jesus's redemptive power, it really sucks to see such brokenness and pain on the way to church...and its even worse when you know that you have done nothing to help show them the hope we all celebrate in Jesus.

I did some soul searching, heard a great message on Grace by Pastor Brian, and decided I always want to carry a granola bar or two in my purse...so that I have something to offer someone in need I pass bye.

Its feeble, it's just a little bandaid to a grosser larger problem, but that's the only thing I could come up with that lifted my heart a little bit at the time. I also thought that yes, I want to get back into Social Work. I want to be more effective, and when you live in a city where you can't easily escape the ugly problems of our society- you have a daily choice. To respond like Jesus would, or to ignore it.

I don't know about all of you, but I want to try to live out this thing we call faith.

p.s. I still wonder at what the girl would have done had I invited her to church and an Easter meal, and It grieves me that I will always wonder.

Ear Husstling

2009-04-13T08:26:00.000-07:00

On the Q25 bus heading home, two 15 year old nerdy looking boys talking about serious life issues:

Nerdy boy 1: So they say that when a ghost is near bye, you hear the noise of a reindeer

Nerdy boy 2: what does a reindeer sound like?

Nerdy boy 1: A ghost.

On the L train heading towards Brooklyn, two forty something hipsters talking. One clearly leaning towards drunk:

old hipster 1: I love being underground

old hipster 2: on the train?

old hipster 1: yeah its my safe zone, my girlfriend can't call, text, or nag me here.

old hipster 2: so true man, so true.

Leaving Joshua Tree in Murry Hill at 1:45 am on Saturday night err Sunday morning.

Three sloppy buzzed white guys entering the bar.

Sloppy guy three: "I love this place- whenever I come, I get some."

Sloppy guy two: "lets get inside!."

Birthdays are meant to be celebrated!

2009-04-08T11:38:00.000-07:00

My SMOF (soul mate of fun) turned a year older and celebrated in true style. His fun sister Angelica flew in from Tijuana and it was so great to meet her. After hearing lots about her and seeing adorable pictures of her new baby boy, it was fabulous to finally meet her.

Sergio came over Wednesday night and saw my new Astoria digs ( I havent even blogged photos of my new apartment, gasp). He then left at 4 in the morning to pick up above mentioned favorite sister at the JFK airport, that is brotherly dedication.

I then met up with them Friday night at El Faro, a Spanish tapas restaurant in the village. I was toting a large and perfect cake that I did not want smushed in any way, bday gifties of course, failed miserably at trying to hail a cab...meanwhile all the while in red heels. sometimes this urban lifestyle CAN get to you.

Anyway it was all worth it of course. El Faro is delectable, and who doesn't like Sangria. Here are some photos of our dinner party made up of bday boy Sergio, his fellow Princeton Mates, and then the only two non ivy leaguers....Angelica and I. ha

Brother and sister duo

Tapas is like an indoor picnic in my silly opinion

Sergio has good taste in friends, and I'm not just talking about myself :)

I was so glad when Sergio wanted to check out this Greek bakery in my neighborhood for dessert Wednesday night and ended up loving their chocolate, it made the whole where should I get his cake decision easilyanswered. The greeks do it right!

After dinner we headed to Bembe, this amazing bar/club in Williamsburg Brooklyn. I had gone there in November with Sergio and they have live drummers that play Brazilian beats...and they mix in a live DJ's beats as well. It makes for a diverse scene, incredible sweaty dancing, and a night of tropical mojito drinks.

This girl makes perfect babies, seriously.

I'm ridiculous I know

My friend Thelma waited in line forever to join us, she earns points!

Black and Grey

He was a well loved bday boy

I don't even want to tell you what time I got home or how I think I fell asleep waiting for the 6 train somewhere. Lets just say Saturday required major R&R on my behalf. But thank goodness for Sundays and the brunches they bring. Sergio wanted to take his sister to Essex for their bottomless mimosa brunch, and who am I to ever say no to a social Sunday.

I had never sat upstairs, you can see all the brunching people below.

I was accused for wearing yellow earrings to match the beverages, although sadly that is my matchy matchy stye....pure coincidence that day folks.

Mimosas served out of beer pictures, not classy...yet so functional.

Although I don't quite have the Delgado cheekbones, I do have cheeks. ha

Cheers to another year in the fabulous life of Sergio.

Jennie Cooper in Town

2009-04-08T07:33:00.000-07:00

I have so many blog posts to write and they nag at me...they do.

In the meantime enjoy this video of Jennie and I out in Soho Sunday night.

It was us against the wind.

It's fun to be able to capture fun little moments in life.

xoxo

Kass

St. Patrick's Day

2009-03-27T18:43:00.000-07:00

So St. Patrick's day is kind of a big deal in New York. New York City holds one of the longest running Saint Patrick Day parades in the world. This St. Patty's Day was the 248th year that fifth avenue in central Manhattan hosted the parade involving 150,000 marchers, and over 2 million spectators.

Little known fact, the NY Irish community is the sixth largest minority group in the city today. Who knew!

These aren't my pictures, but just so you get an idea of the insanity!

Of course I was working and no where near the parade, but I like the idea that it all happened in the city I live in. :) But you better believe I was out in Manhattan that evening to catch the festivities. I headed out to Union square where there are four or five pubs within a few blocks,, and was greeted with some interesting sights as I got off the metro.

I immediately saw frat boy special, meaning college age or newly released boys covered in green, and stumbling along the streets. One was drooling beer, if that's possible. I can't imagine being that wretchedly drunk at 5 pm. Must have been a long day, considering most started around 10 am. Reminded me of new years eve in Vegas, when Jess and I saw people with the plastic hurricane glasses filled at 9 in the morning, ready to party. Crazy stamina we Americans can have when it comes to drinking.

Anyway I don't even remember the names of the pubs that we went to, but we hopped around to two or three with some falafel in between. Just another fun evening of creating New York memories.

p.s. my mom sent me the cute green shirt to wear, how sweet is she!!!!

:) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :)

Thelma and I at the first pub, I didn't even drink beer..just cider.

We met this funny guy who tried to pretend he was Irish, turns out he was living in Williamsburg and was an actor...surprise surprise. His girlfriend had just moved out to join him and they were all over each other at the bar...although he was way too friendly with Thelma and I. He told me he was taken, but "that I was very inviting." ha. Beer makes people say the funniest things.

He wanted to show me his special socks, and I told him he looked like he belonged in the movie, Newsies.

umm "new friends" I guess?

Here are my real new friends. Thelma, Francisco, and I

Francisco is from Seattle and Mexican, be still my beating pro Latino friend heart.

We even ran into someone we knew, which made us feel like we actually knew more then 10 people in the city. Thelma is new too. ha.

I enjoyed my first little holiday NY style.

Celebration of all things...

2009-03-24T18:11:00.000-07:00

So Friday night, two weeks ago, Forefront had their annual party called Celebration of all things. The funny thing is that all of a sudden, I feel like Karaoke is everywhere! From Tokyo, to Amy's bday party, to this Forefront celebration. I hadn't karaoked in years, and now it was twice in two weeks....eerie if you ask me.

Anyway I actually went to a play compliments of the Hispanic Graduate Society at Princeton. Sergio's intelligent posse had an extra ticket and I went to a play all in Spanish, and was slapped in the face with the reality of use it or lose it. Basically it encouraged me to look into Spanish language meet ups, which will be a new adventure happening soon. Although I will say in my defense, understanding an intense dark play entirely in Spanish might have been a lofty goal.

After the play I marched myself to the upper east side and walked what felt for miles. I was wearing new red heels (very cute might I add) and totally got my heel stuck in a pavement crack while crossing the street. A man crossing with me called me Cinderella and picked it up for me, ha.

I walked into the bar hosting the party to find Sara and the creative arts director at Forefront doing a Grease duet. I heart Grease, or Vaselina as they call it in Mexico. I have so many great memories singing and dancing my gringa heart out to the grease megamix at the five quinceneras I attended last year in Mexico. So it was a fun song to walk into!

Sara and John totally vibing Travolta and Newton John

We sang Skater Boi by Avril and really Melissa and I on the left were there for moral support. The real singers, Sara and Amy made the song happen. ha.

Black was the color of the night

Amy is a lucky girl who works for Coach with her fabulous purple purse that was a sample.

The pastor Brian and his wife Allison getting down, very impressive.

Fun ladies

People were signing this board with what they were celebrating.

I wrote "new starts and new passport stamps."

ok and now you HAVE to watch this video. This guy was hilarious, and you know he must have performed this before!!!!

Tuesday Surprise

2009-03-24T16:32:00.000-07:00

So Ginger who is the blue in Brea's rainbow of bridesmaids (I'm green), was in town for a few days. She facebooked me on Tuesday and said that she would be around that evening if I was free. I was, so we met up at the whole foods at Union square, and were greeted by a protest.

It might sound weird, and I wasn't raised in an angsty radical home or anything, but I love protests. I love the idea that people care enough about something that they are taking a stand, they went through the effort to make signs, to mobilize, to unite. In this often apathetic selfish world we live in, I am inspired to see people care, and to take action.

So whatever your thoughts about protests are, those are mine. Anyway I always absorb energy from protests, the kind that gets you to yell, "fight fight fight" in sixth grade when you are just watching. SO it was a great way to get greeted by Manhattan.

How appropriate to see a Gandhi statue in Union Square.

I read this funny quote on over heard in new york.com

Guy trying to push "free literature": This book is really important. It was the book that Gandhi followed. Do you know who Gandhi is? He's like the Indian Martin Luther King.

- L Train

Per Camilo's suggestion, we ate at Republic noodles, which was definitely a scene.

Best part of the meal was the Sapporo, which ironically I never had in Japan.

Ginger and I

Call it silly, call it so 1999, but I ALWAYS think of Felicity whenever I see NYU

Washington square park is beautiful at night

It's always fun to have people pass through and we also started planning Brea's bachlorette party, so it was doubly productive! Thanks for the random Tuesday night Ginger!

New City New Hair

2009-03-22T07:52:00.000-07:00

So I had this amazing haircut in Mexico city last May, it grew out well so that I could travel all summer with curly low maintenance hair...oh and I had these fab summer highlights. But that was LAST May. I've had three haircut since then, but nothing came close to that Mexico cut, and I started trying to grow it out. Anyway here I am, with significantly longer hair that showed the past highlights and had become flat, lifeless, and was just limping along in every way.

I took the plunge and dyed it darker and shed off a few inches. Honestly I wasn't expecting it to end up quite so short, I really think it was because the hair stylist was talking off on a tangent, and forgot how much she was trimming. I watched her cut and re cut what seemed the same parts, and I was cringing a little, but hair is hair...it grows.

So I present to you, new hair for New York.

The Chip Shop

2009-03-21T21:08:00.000-07:00

SO Like I've mentioned I'm part of this Sunday night dinner group, and I really look forward to Sundays now because of it. It was Thelma's turn to pick the Sunday supper and she had heard great things about the Chip Shop via fellow New Yorkers and the Food Network.

So I started my long journey to Park Slope Brooklyn and excitedly saw the British looking restaurant from the other side of the street.

Home of the famous pink little car that makes deliveries and catches attention.

It's always more fun to order off a pink menu.

I got the standard fare: Fish and Chips. To be honest it wasn't that amazing, I mean it was good, but forgetable. Victoria who is British and would know of anyone if the fish was up to Great Britain par, confirmed that it was more blah than tasty.

This is what I look like while talking apparently, ha.

Much better

So the New York health board shut down the twice fried cherry pie that the Chip Shop is famous for, because of transfrat. Eileen was sad, but Thelma and I took a chance on their fried peanut butter cups and a mars bar. Sounds disgusting and unfathomable, but don't judge. We all have our carnival white trash cravings, and when the food network has written about their desserts, you know it is something to behold.

I present to you what battered and fried peanut butter cups look like:

And here is the Mars Bar, which for me was to caramely sweet.

Amy's birthday at Keats

2009-03-19T20:16:00.000-07:00

So as per former New Yorker and current San Francisco friend, Camilo's suggestion...I've been going to Forefront church. It meets at the blender theatre, which just makes things so much cooler.

Anyway I instantly hopped into a new small group that was starting in Astoria, actually I had to kind of nag and beg to get it in. It was closed because it was beyond capacity, but I knew I was moving to Astoria...so I wanted to be in THAT small group. Persistence pays off, just like that widow who pestered the judge, and got her way. I am thankful that I am in Tristan and Melissa's small group. We're going over the book, "Adventures in Missing The Point" by Brian McLaren and Tony Campolo.

Melissa is now a daily gchat companion who grew up in southern California, and even knows fellow UC Davis Aggie, Josh O'Neil. What are the odds of having a friend in common? Thank you face book for making that known.

Amy is in my life group and celebrated her birthday at Keats on Saturday night. She is a hardcore karaoke sister, meaning that the girl can sing. Anyone who has a terrible voice usually stays away from karaoke unless you are trapped on a cruise ship, or trapped in a tequila bottle.

Anyway it was a fun night out filled with random karaoke performances, a round of free shots courtesy of one large drunk guy who spilled Melissa's drink all over us, and fun small group times outside of Wednesday evenings. I feel lucky to have met so many authentic people so quickly. Whatever your beliefs or thoughts towards religion, I appreciate that good Christian community, when it meets the mark, is always there for you to join in. No one should have to feel alone in this world, I believe we were all created with a purpose and importance. Some join sport teams, some meet for coffee, some have weekly happy hours, some have play dates, and some go to church together.

Birthday Girl Amy!

Silly girls: Me, Melissa, and Sara

Tristan, Melissa, Me, Amy, Sara, and Ryan

Normalcy

Mexico taught me to enjoy tequila and to only seldomly abuse it

You have to watch this hot mess. It is hilarious! I grieve that I missed her doing this kungfu kick she would do, with the windup...the whole kick was a 10 second production. The boys were mesmerized, it was like a train wreck, you couldn't turn away. She was trying to dedicate the song to her husband, and he was plugging his ears. Wow.

Some East Coast Brothers serious about their Karaoke!

EAR HUSSLIN

2009-03-19T16:52:00.000-07:00

On the N train heading to Ditmars in Astoria

Picture a constructionesque looking guy who has a chin beard and boots, talking on blue tooth.

guy: "What do you think?"

guy: "Well its a gender bias proposition"

guy: "I don't care if you think its unfair, I'm the effing man in the relationship."

guy: "Let me be the man"

guy: "I told you it was bias"

guy: "If you want to date a woman, go call Phil."

Princeton Perfection

2009-03-17T09:04:00.001-07:00

A few weeks ago on a Friday evening, I headed up to Princeton for some small town quaintness. Thanks to NJ transit and My friend Sergio who is a PHD student at Princeton, I was able to have an evening about town.

Can you imagine attending a school this charming?!?

It's part Harry Potter, part bed and breakfast, and part Windsor Castle. I would certainly be inspired walking around these ridiculously stunning buildings all day as well.

Mr. Delgado looking far too Ivy League

So we went to Teresa's Cafe where we had the most delicious pasta I've ever had. If you are ever in Princeton, go to Teresa and order the Tortelloni di Zucca in Brodo Pumpkin Stuffed Pasta in consume, prosciutto di parma, sage, grana padano. A mouthful of letters, but just trust me, its delicious. delicious. delicious.

After Teresas we went to a museum on campus and saw an opening Asian influenced exhibit. It was very interesting, if my memory reflects correctly, and you have to understand wine was served at this event. If you know me, you know that after one glass, I get kind of silly. Anyway it was modern and famous pieces with an Asian interpretation spin added to it...think Mao meets Monet.

Lots of meeting, greeting, and sampling later some of Sergio's friends and I went to a Princeton pub. I tried absolute pear flavored vodka for the first time, wished it was a little sweeter, but definitely an interesting taste. Kimia's drink of the absolute mandarin and tonic is by far better, and still wins.

Many say Sergio and Ivan look like

brothers, and better yet...the

JONAS BROTHERS. Ha if the Jonas brothers were Mexican.

It's horrible but I don't remember these girl's names. One was from Spain and one was from Argentina, but she was moving to Chile. We talked about summering on a Chilean beach, rather wintering when its summer there. Oh the global fantasies that are easily woven when you have such an international crowd.

and my favorite person in New York, and definitely one of my best friends.

Saturday morning the weather was phenom. Seriously we walked around Princeton in sunglasses, sweaterless, and off to get famous pastries from the little pastry chef. Food network, the Times, and local Princeton people know how delish these pastries are, and we got the last two. Seriously, while we were there waiting for our coffee, we saw three people come by and walk away dejectedly because there were no more pastries left. Serious business, Saturday morning goodies in spring like weather.

Mr.GQ with his morning coffee and downtown Princeton

and a happy

reflection that says it all.

I heart nice weekend adventures.

Harlem

2009-03-17T07:03:00.000-07:00

My first day back to work after the blizzard I attended a study abroad fair at City College in Harlem, Manhattan.

Proof it was STILL very very very cold!

City College is a beautiful campus that looks a castle, nicely done New York...nicely done.

City college is apparently famous for being the first free public university in the country, and for the famous Puff Diddy incident.

Sean Puffy Combs hosted one of his first big concerts, way back when, before he was famous. Nine people ended up getting killed because something happened that made people want to exit, they frantically then ran every which way, and there w

asn't enough security to handle the massive chaos that ensued.

The plaque lists the victims, the school was sued, the dean was fired, and Sean went on to later get in more trouble with other legal problems.

Then we passed the famous Apollo theatre, not gonna lie...expected it to be a little more fabulous and a little less cement.

Last and certainly least is the building Mr. Bill Clinton works out of himself. Obviously not the kinkos building, but the big one.

Some bonus shots of Queens College on that Tuesday morning, basically lots of snow. :)

Urban Snap Shots

2009-03-16T21:19:00.000-07:00

I was headed into Manhattan for another Education Abroad fair and took the Long Island Rail Road instead of the train, and it was fabulous. What normally takes at least 45 minutes took about 20, and dropped me off right at Penn Station. While I was waiting for the train to roll through Flushing, I was inspired by these views. A clear reminder that Queens has both the Laguardia and JFK airports. :)

Flushing is apparently not "the new China," but indeed "the new Korea." So I salute you Jason Kim, and your NY homeland. This was a view from the train platform as well. Doesn't get any more Korean....

Was in Park Slope Brooklyn and very impressed by their useful use of a plank to extend their abilities to recycle. Also showing they lack in homeless or bag ladies to come by and take all the cans and bottles of redemptive value. One of the perks of Manhattan and Flushing I have found, the street people happily do the recycling sorting for you.

The brutal honest trash afterglow. The sun beams, snow melts, sludge sits, trash gathers, and the glam disappears. Welcome to the urban truth.

And for your viewing pleasure, some lovely subway entertainment. This senior citizen prize was found at the times square station. One of a kind this man is, I hope to go back and properly tip him soon.

Speed Dating Anyone?

2009-03-13T21:04:00.000-07:00

So I had my first official New York snow day two Mondays ago, and it was sooo delightful. We went to bed to snow, and it continued to sprinkle white flakes all throughout the evening. I don't know how these snow days work, like do you watch the news? look online? Do they close colleges? Well as I was about to stumble groggily out the door, my boss calls and says- no work, no school, and see you Tuesday.

I ran to the big window in the living room and saw the snow first hand. It wasn't as blizzardy

as I expected, but then again as a born and raised California girl, what do I know about blizzards? This is what I saw:

I braved the storm for a trip to the grocery store, I had just moved into my apartment and had NOTHING. So off I went with my snow boots and trader joes bags, and found my way to the local Key Foods. Let me just tell you how expensive the local Key Foods is, buy one get one free was no where to be found. My credit card misses Safeway.

street ploughing in action

Here is the subway stop that I walk to every morning, these guys were hard at work putting salt on the steps and clearing the way. I was very happy I didn't have to be a part of the morning commute, but wished I didn't have to lug home my groceries in the snow either.

So the most amusing thing about snow day was that I braved the snow again for something totally unlike me in the evening. My Sunday supper ladies and I the evening before had talked about dating in New York, how to meet guys, etc. One of the ladies had looked into speed dating and said there was an event happening Monday evening (blizzard day). Well two mimosas into the evening all of us decided to go, and signed up as soon as we returned to our homes.

So Monday evening after being inside all afternoon and out of the snow, I headed into Manhattan to Bamboo 52, home of the longest running happy hour in New York. Basically every day is happy hour, ha. Speed Dating my friends is sooooo sooooo soooo much fun! They placed the girls on the outside, sitting back against the walls, and then the boys rotated on the inside. Unfortunately due to the storm and apparent pansy NY men, only 6 showed up. The website had said that typically there are 20-25 men/woman, and three minute dates. So we asked for a redo, and will go back on a Saturday more populated evening some time.

Our dates were five minutes long because of the smaller numbers, and even though I didn't feel any real chemistry with any of the men, they were all nice and surprisingly normal. Although we did nickname one "the bitter brit." He received a no from me. Honestly its like meeting people at a cocktail party when you do the small talk and go over the initial pleasantries. It was fun to have six different conversations, and to later hear how each of us girls talked about different things with the men as well.

We did make a mistake by letting the guys know we were friends, the poor men had to hop through all of us and even made comments about how it was strange that they potentially would be picking one or two out of the group of us.

Anyway if you want more info on speed dating, how it works, if its being hosted near you...check out www.dateanddash.com . But I enthusiastically urge all single girls to try it, what do you have to lose?

The funny thing is that all the guys but one, said YES to all of us ladies. Of course the one we all were actually excited about, why did you have to break our hearts GEO! Ha! Not a choosy crowd I suppose, or the blizzard brought out the most determined. We ladies used a little more constraint and I said yes to two gentleman. I wouldn't necesarily want to date either of them, but would at least go have coffee and continue the conversation. The website encourages that you say yes, even if you are friendship minded. Now we both have each others emails and if one party wants to initiate communication, it starts that way. So basically after the five minutes you mark, yes or no. The gentlemen do it as well, and our score cards get turned in at the end of the evening.

Our speed dating facilitator whose sole job was to blow a whistle every five minutes was so drunk he showed us the results card at the end of the night, big no no, but great for us ladies. ha. Anyway it was a fun evening and even more fun to debrief after with the ladies!

So I'll let you know if I cash in my redo and try it again.

The speed daters warming up with a drink at a different bar before....

New York is definitely bringing out a bolder me, I love it!

Local Breakfast Fare

2009-03-10T13:24:00.000-07:00

Every one loves a bagel, especially a New York Bagel....right?

My brother is Mr. Bagel, seriously my grandma used to joke that he would get a hole in his stomach from eating just bagels and donuts. He probably eats at least four bagels a week, and we ALWAYS have them in the cupboard, and on reserve in the freezer.

Now Rafael (Mr. Bagel) is also quite picky, so picky that the only bagels accepted are plain and onion...not even blueberry... (I know!!!) I love the everything bagel, but there 'is a small black seed that has a bad aftertaste," according to him.

I love bagels as well and could only buy them at walmart in Mexico last year, and the only option imported were plain Lenders egg bagels from the freezer section....but beggars can't be choosers. Ironically most Mexicans love Philadelphia cheese, they just don't eat it on bagels. Think about that one for a second....

So what does this have to do with today, me, now? Enter my morning commute, which is becoming a perfect opportunity of NY education and people watching. There we all are, the morning commuters, on the N train at Ditmars. This yellow N train will then take me to Queensborough, where I transfer to the purple 7, and ride it ALL THE WAY out to flushing Queens. I then so luckily get to ride a bus out to Queens College. My commute takes me about an hour and 15 minutes total, and I believe its like a distance of 7 miles...welcome to the lifestyle of metropolis living. ha.

Anyway so this girl comes on the train with her iced coffee, normal. Then she takes out her brown paper bag, fairly normal. Most people don't actually eat on the train. Then before she even takes out her breakfast, I smell it, they smell it, we ALL smell it. She takes out a huuuuge bagel heaping with cream cheese and onions. Now if you know me, you know I love my onions. But really, on a crowded subway train, you eat a toasted onion bagel with extra onions?

You should have seen the shock and horror on people as they eyed her up and down, stared at her bagel, and seemed aghast as she slowly, painfully slow, ate it.

Anyway it was amusing to see the science experiment of filling up the train with the onion smell. As an avid onion enthusiast, it was a good reminder that not everyone wants to smell my breakfast. ha.

silly blog I know, but I wish you could have seen the looks.

What do you think? Should people be able to eat whatever they want, anywhere they want?

................................Even a tuna sandwich on an airplane?

Essex

2009-03-09T20:58:00.000-07:00

So I met a new group of fun ladies and we have established the "Sunday Night Supper Club."

We inaugurated our weekly tradition by going to a hip brunch spot on the lower east side. It's called Essex, and it's fabulous for the following reasons:

1. They have Sunday brunch from 10-2 and 4-8 pm. (evening brunch=delightful)

2. For $16 you get a full meal and three beverages of choice (bloody mary, Mimosa, screwdriver, etc) Although let me tell you, they certainly didn't count how many times they filled my mimosa glass, I'm pretty sure it was more than three times. :)

3. The space was airy, modern, and just what you want while trying to pretend that it's still sunday morning....

Great pick Victoria!

A letter to fellow commuters

2009-03-09T07:36:00.000-07:00

Dear New Yorkers,

I realize it's raining and everyone has a case of the Mondays, I myself snoozed for an additional 30 minutes and am ponytailing it up. I recognize that many of us suffered horrendous train detours this weekend, and that even this very morning our 7 train suddenly had a premature last stop at Shea station, because so many of us were commuting to a baseball stadium? I digress....

I understand that it's hard to balance your coffee, bags, and an umbrella at the same time. I respect that hoods limit your vision and that you can't always see me walking at your side as well.

But really if you are going to use an umbrella that is broken, you need to be more responsible with how and where you walk with it. I should not be a victim just because I'm waiting behind you in the bus line, or because you suddenly stop in front of me in the cross walk because Dunkin Donuts is calling your name.

We are all in it together-commuting in the rain, tired, and just wanting to get to point b.

I really didn't need to get stabbed by your broken umbrellas on my way to work. Please dispose of your faulty umbrellas and be more considerate of the people around you.

Thank you,

your fellow commuter

Blast from the past...

2009-03-08T19:06:00.000-07:00

So I first fell in love with New York when I was 20. I spent 10 weeks doing inner city ministry with an organization called, Here's Life Inner City. We lived in this horrible renovated hospital that will be the closest thing to army barracks that I will ever find. But when you are 20 and just happy to be in the New York city limits, it doesn't matter if you live with 6 girls in bunk beds, have to take three minute showers, and suffer through the day to day humidity that is NY.

All that being said that summer changed my life and I came back to Davis and quickly changed my major and perspective. I am thankful for that experience and ever since then have dreamt of getting myself back to New York as a permanent resident.

Seven years later I'm here as a so called adult, and rediscovering this eclectic city. Two weeks ago, I went to check out a possible apartment to move into, and was walking down a long residential street. I thought the area looked familiar, and was thinking back to that summer that I worked with street smart savvy new york children, and the local rite aid where we would all get our photos developed at.

Then I looked up to the right and saw the huge Jehovah's Witness Kingdom Hall, and instantly knew...no wait, it couldn't be...I looked up to the left...and...wait it was...

NYSUM!!!!

the New York School of Urban Ministry

That folks is called full circle. and I definitely did not take the apartment, it was too far from the subway...much like our time at NYSUM.

I am so delighted that I'm back in this city and got to choose my own place to stay...ha

Wyatt Browning Smith

2009-03-06T09:44:00.000-08:00

World please meet the latest, cutest, and most charming little addition to my life, Mr. newly born Wyatt. My dear friend Megan was not only adorable as a preggo, but already looks amazing three weeks after giving birth to Wyatt. Good genes those Barnes girls have.

Megan showing off Wyatt's uggs.

When I found out that I would be returning home for the weekend, I knew that I had to meet Wyatt. He was born two days before I moved to New York, and I wasn't able to see him or his momma. I quickly rounded up some of my besties/former roommies from college, the #33 gals.

We had a meet and greet with little Wyatt, and he was very well behaved.

..except for when he spit up on me, not once, but twice.

Ha...Meggie kept apologizing and really it didn't bother me. I figured that it was a compliment he felt so errr comfortable in my arms? Maybe he thought my solid black shirt was boring and wanted to liven it up for me with some

splitter splatter?

It was a mellow afternoon of baby swaddling, catching up, and just being in awe of seeing Megan as a mom. I watch my friends marry, nest, talk of babies, become pregnant, glow and grow each of the nine months, then all of a sudden...Pop! Kapow! Boom!...they are a mom. It's a beautiful process to watch and Jen is going through it right now, and is due soon!

As a single girl who lives a completely different life style, it's with awe and wonderment that I see the miracle of birth and babyness happen.

Thank you Megan and Wyatt for some more education. :)

A little bonus video of Wyatt in action.

Making my day!

2009-03-05T16:32:00.000-08:00

Jennie Cooper just confirmed that she is spending her spring break in NY with me! I love her, I love her teaching schedule, I love traveling with her, and look forward to her visit in April!!!!!

J+K making it happen again in 2009...

I didn't even last three weeks....

2009-03-05T14:43:00.000-08:00

So contrary to popular belief I did not go back to San Francisco two weekends ago because I was homesick or missed San Fran too much. I mean of course I miss my beautiful little city and all of my friends and fam, but this very last minute trip back home was to have a California cousin reunion. Lindsay my newly 16 year old cousin decided to visit Nanny for her spring break, then Lauren my newly 20 year old cousin decided to follow suit. Then all of a sudden 21 year old cousin Beau was going to drive up from UCSB, and there was no way that I couldn't be there.

I took the train to the JFK airport, and was amazed at what an easy ride it was. Whoever has the pleasure of visiting me will get to be lucky enough to use it if you have less than two suitcases.

anyway so I was greeted at the airport by my cousins and mom, and soon saw Nanny. We played the family game of rumicube and then my favorite, Uno. Lost of noise, nuts and bolts, and rounds later...we called it a night.

Saturday we went and had high tea at our favorite tea house in Pacifica, and even Beau braved the lilac walls, miniature sandwiches, and pretty tea pots to have some quality family time. As per usual tea was lovely and we all enjoyed what is becoming the family tradition.

It was a full table!

look at the heart shaped beets in our yummy salad!

My pretty cousin Lauren and I.

Beau looking very masculine despite the abounding purple bows

my mom and I- people tell us we look a lot alike. I mostly agree I suppose.

Aunt melinda and her nieces and daughter

Nanny and her granddaughters

We are dwarfing Nanny. ha.

After our afternoon tea delight we all headed back to Nannys and lounged, I believe some even napped (mom is getting old) ha.

My former roommie and friend Jessica happens to be renting a room from my Nanny as she transitions into a temporary (we're hoping permanent) job in San Francisco. So Jess was home when I came back with all my cousins, and our dear friend Stephanie who is just the nicest, most real, and fun girl you can have around was also over. Then Luis came over from Sacramento, he's already a family favorite and actually spent Christmas with us. It was so fun to have family and my friends that are like family over all hanging out. More UNO was played, Nanny's amazing lasagna was eaten, and then we headed into the city for the Velvet Cantina.

Lindsay and Nanny stayed back, but Mom, cousins Lauren and Beau, and my friends all headed into the Mission district to meet up with the waiting Coopers and Ann. The coops are my favorite Marin people and I have known Ann since middle school, so it really was an evening where you feel surrounded by more than just friends, but people who knew you, know you, and will continue to know you.

We finally got a table, enjoyed a few strong pitchers of Margaritas (wonder who picked the drink. ha ha), and had their amazingly sinful salsa cheese dip.

Jennie, Ann, and me.

I got to travel (at different times) with both of these spicy ladies in Mexico last year...how lucky am I! Oh the stories we have, and the broken mexican hearts that were left behind in their wake....

One of the funniest people I know, Mr. Nick Cooper. I think I'm slightly addicted to him...

Proof is in the pictures- my blended worlds.

My Thompson cousins. Beau is ultra cool for enjoying Indio beer.

Lauren is underage, but it will be our little secret....

Ann does Yoga, and her and Luis wanted me to stay in San Fran.

group photo with "Mom and Dad" in the background. I love the photo symmetry in this picture, I coudl go on and on about the mirrored posing, synching, etc...

and last but not least, the cherry to my perfect but brief evening out...a boy walking around in a SNUGGIE! I have a matching blue snuggie as well, and wish I had it on for the photo...yes I'm a silly silly girl. You better believe I will be wearing mine for the NYC snuggie pub crawl :)

Looking back I think its so wonderful that one of my best friends can live with my Nanny, and that my incredibly hip and fun mom can come out to the bar with my two cousins and friends. It's really quite awesome when everyone can blend together, if you know me, you know I'm about as inclusive as it gets. I love people, I love MY people, and when I can introduce my favorites from different parts of the world to each other...it's bound to make every event even better. I imagine that's what it is like for people who look around at their wedding and see all the important people in their life, together in one room, enjoying and celebrating together. I strive to have that moment as often and as much as I can.

Anyway it was a wonderful trip home and I loved seeing my cousins all grown up, becoming interesting people. And of course to some of my dearest friends who truly have become my family, I love you.

falling hard...

2009-03-03T19:49:00.001-08:00

Me encanta Nueva York!

I'm a little distracted, but am slowly working on some blog posts to update you all with my NY happenings. But.... I just had to share that I am officially utterly and completely smitten with this fabulous city I now call home. The big apple is quickly becoming the apple of my eye.

p.s. Have you seen entourage? The main characters all grew up in queens and it's raw, hilarious, and guilty pleasure for sure.

Ear Husslin

2009-02-26T07:03:00.000-08:00

1.	EAR HUSSLIN
	TO LISTEN IN ON ANOTHER'S CONVERSATION. TO EASE DROP. GUY: Why are your ear husslin? GIRL: What? GUY: Listening in on my conversation! Thats what my students in Pittsburgh used to call ease dropping, and it's always stuck with me. So anyway I have to tell you I have over heard the most deliciously funny conversations of my life here in New York. I wish I could remember all of them perfectly, but some I have quickly jotted down in my blackberry, so that I could share them with you all. My friend Myriah sent me this blog link, which basically does what I'm about to do...but better. Thanks M! I'll try to keep this as a continual feature of my modest blog, because let me tell you I am inspired on a daily basis with the sheer amount of people I see and hear on a daily basis in this huge city! Corner Coffee Shop: Two Dr.s having lunch Dr. 1- "My wife wants us to move when we retire." Dr. 2- "You can't do Florida- hurricanes." Dr. 1-" I can't do North Carolina, no Dunkin Donuts, and all those Mal practice suits." Dr. 2- "What OBGYN doesn't have them?" Later a third Dr. joins the party, and Dr. 2 is taking off. Dr. 3- "Hey guys, mind if I join you?" Dr. 1- "Hey hows it going, yea sit down." Dr. 3- "Well I just lost my father three months ago." Dr. 2- "I'm sorry, been there done that three times. gotta go." On the Q25 bus going home: girl on phone to her boyfriend- "What do you mean you don't want this?" "What do you want, an open relationship? "You don't even want an open relationship?" "I don't understand, what do you want?" "Hello? Hello? Michael?" I guess the boyfriend told her what he wanted. Imagine a packed bus and one girl loudly arguing with her boyfriend on the phone, whether we wanted to or not...we were all pulled into her drama. Queens College Cafeteria: I'm standing in line to pay for my lunch and the girl in front of me has bleached blonde died hair, tons of makeup, and is a cute girl. She's about to pay for her lunch when this random brunette girl walks up to her and asks her the following- Brunette: "Can I ask you a question?" Blonde: "umm yea" Brunette: "Do you work out?" Blonde: " I run, I try to run." Brunette: "Like on a treadmill?" Blonde: "yeah." Brunette: "Thanks" What was that? The blonde wasn't even phased by this random stranger asking her about her workout regime, I guess its a compliment so she just took it that way. I still thought the whole interaction was so strange. Flushing Hospital Then today, my favorite so far happened as I waited for my bus into work. As I'm standing at my bus stop in front of the Flushing hospital, across from the corner coffee shop where the Dr. conversation went down, I saw this happen.- Elderly African American woman standing in the door way of the coffee shop, talking to a large Caucasian male. male: "Lady, is this your bag here?" (pointing to a rolling suitcase propped in front of the coffee shop) Lady: "Why you wanna know? Whats it to you?" Male: "I'm about to call the bomb squad, its an unattended bag." Lady: "It's my bag." Male: "prove it." Lady: " I don't have to prove anything to you, get out of my way." Male: "Listen Lady, this is serious business." Then Lady spits at the Big Male, and that really gets him worked up. Male: "I'm getting my phone out right now and calling the police." Lady: "Well here's my bus, so you best get out of my way." Then the lady grabs her rolling bag in question, shakes her cane at the bus, and it just passes her by. It was actually quite brutal to watch, the bus driver must have had no heart...or is just a seasoned New Yorker. So then the Lady goes right back to the coffee shop, where the Big Male entered. Not sure if their arguing continued.

Through the clouds

2009-02-24T20:32:00.000-08:00

I've been to quite a few airports over the past few years, and honestly don't even remember when I took these. It might have been landing from Tokyo in January, or from Mexico in December.

Anyway I think they are beautiful, and the skies continue to fascinate me. As I was flying from SF to NY yesterday (yes I know it hasn't even been three weeks and I went back), I was looking at the sky and was just amazed at airplanes, and how far they can take us. I am so grateful of the places I've seen, and that I can continue to dream about exploring because of these planes, smooth skies, and clouds to fly through.

Thank goodness I am not afraid of flying, or my life would be miserable!!!!

Reuniting on a saturday night....

2009-02-24T19:08:00.001-08:00

I love quality time with good friends, and the more I move around this world, the more I appreciate being able to find people that you can always connect with, no matter how often or little you see them. Enter my dear friend Sergio! I met him in Mexico City, and it was a match made in heaven. We ended up hanging out for 10 hours our first time hanging out, and I don't know if it was because I was so happy to speak English, but I instantly knew that I had met someone uber fun.

Anyway after months apart, many back and forth face book comments, and one east coast move later, we are in the same general area again. Now I live in the city, and he lives in the provinces, that's our joke...because before he lived in Mexico City, and I lived in the pueblo. Anyway I got to see him two weekends ago, and it was so good for my soul! I have been missing Mexico a lot, It's a chronic ache that I carry around, like a piece of me is missing. Seeing Sergio reminded me of so many genuine Mexico memories and kind of bridged those to the current time and place in NY. Anyway all that being said its nice to see a familiar face when you have moved somewhere new.

We got dressed up and went to the rocking horse, which we just luckily happened upon really. It was a wonderful Mexican dinner with my pomegranate charred chicken enchiladas, and his mango and papaya sauteed shrimp. A few amazing margaritas later, we met up with some of his friends and friend's friends at a bar across the street, and then later danced the night away.

I'm serious about loving this margarita, it was amazing!

pretty little enchiladas!

Cheers!

Also had Nopales! (cactus)

Sergio's roommate Luis, Sergio, and I

Sergio, Luis, Ivan, and Alejandra

Alejandra and I will have to take a better photo at some point...one that is not taken after hours of dancing!

I loved being able to wear a new dress, finding the perfect Manhattan margarita, dance dance dancing, and having dinner with someone who shared in the most interesting, growing, and blessed year of my life (so far)...Mexico.

SO Mr. Delgado, if you happen to read this...I just think you might be my soul mate of fun! I am so thankful for all of our Mexico memories and am excited to see what adventures we can find in NY.

Gosh I'm getting mushy these days!

Mosaic me

2009-02-15T12:48:00.000-08:00

This is a fun Flickr photo mosaic quiz I got from Erin's blog. You answer the questions below in Flickr search, and then pick a picture from the FIRST page of photo results. Use fd mosaic to plug in the pictures and make your own journal mosaic.

1. What is your first name?

2. What is your favorite food?

3. What highschool did you go to?

4. What is your favorite color?

5. Who is your celebrity crush?

6. Favorite drink?

7. Dream vacation?

8. Favorite dessert?

9. What do you want to be when you grow up?

10.What do you love most in life?

11. One word to describe you

12. Your flickr name, or if you aren't a member of flickr, your blog name, etc

here are the links of the photos from my flicr mosaic:
1. kp, 2. Tacos Dorados, 3. IMG_4049.JPG, 4. 132 of 365: Secret #21, 5. Jason Mraz, 6. jour quatre vingt huit (oh diet coke!), 7. This will have to do as an umbrella!, 8. Chocolate Cake Ice Cream, 9. 20060123 - In Memory Of the Murdered Hopkinton Mother and Baby, 10. incurable laughter, 11. Sassy, 12. Kassaundra

If you do your own, please let me know!!!

Happy three day weekend!

City Living

2009-02-10T15:59:00.000-08:00

Well I've now been a New Yorker for almost exactly a week and have already survived my first snow, the chaotic web that is public transportation, rude pushy people, nice friendly people, and life back in a normal steady job....

I'm working on advertising for our summer study abroad programs, especially Mexico! I need at least 15 students to go to make it worthwhile, and honestly it might be tougher than I thought. Cross your fingers that my trip gets good buzz, and we have students apply!!!!

So for now I'm staying in Flushing Queens (New China), and I can't wait to get out of here. Nothing against Flushing, New China, or Old China for that matter, but it's just simply not my scene. I'm no trendy hipster but I do like a little more ambiance than 99 cent stores and noodle bars. I'm in this studio/converted bonus room under a family's house. It's ok, I mean I have a bathroom and kitchenette. What I don't have is a window, constant heat, a stairway light (proves difficult in the evenings, especially cause the stairways doesn't have railing), roommates, and a general feeling that I'm in a place I could live. I feel like I'm in a storage box....I should take a picture ha. I just have my suitcases on the floor, and the bed in the corner. But at the end of the day, I'm thankful I have somewhere to be...and am looking for subleases in the meantime.

Here are some pictures to give you an idea of where I'm living and my day to day life.

This is the Flushing hospital where I catch the bus. The bus thankfully is only about a five minute walk from my place.

This is the little park I walk by every day, today there was a crazy man talking to himself.

Now the day after it snowed, the street I walk on became black ice central...aka tread very carefully.

Two days later after some sun, I had my normal cement back...and my balance was thankful.

This is downtown Flushing, where I catch my second bus if I'm going to work, or the 7 train if I want to head into Manhattan.

Sunday there was some type of parade with dragons, children in red, and drums. Maybe for Chinese new years?

This was a pretty sky moment I caught on Main street on my way home one evening.

Another main street shot at dusk, do you see the moon? It was beautiful!!!!

It was surreal

This is a pretty church in downtown Flushing. I figured explore now and take pictures, cause once I'm out...I'm never coming back!

This is the view from the F train as it rolls into Manhattan. It's actually nice to be on an above ground train, I get to face book, email, or twitter for the half hour. ha.

So on Saturday I had brunch plans in Soho with a friend I hadn't seen since High school. Thanks to face book we reconnected and it was great catching up, having someone to educate me on some NY ways, and to have something to do! The weather was beautiful, the sun was out, and I was just so happy to be absorbing the city.

Ali and I strolling around and squinting in the Sun, but hey no complaints here that it wasn't snowing or freezing.

After Ali and I parted ways I was continuing to browse the area and happened to see a little bit of a commotion in Armani Exchange. I just casually walked in, checked out the action, and found myself in line to meet these two celebrities at the "kissing booth." Don't be worried or jealous, no actual kissing was involved...unless you count Hershey kisses.

Seriously I can't convey how smooth and clueless I was during this whole transaction, I somehow stepped into a special line that bypassed the winding one to the right, and no one questioned me. Proof if you look like you know what you are doing, people believe you. Thankfully I had my camera (as always) and I was in and out in less than five minutes.

Both the girls were really nice and actually told me their names and asked me mine. I think their makeup artist should lay off on the facial highlighters though, they were glowing in person, and not in a dewey way.

What I saw from the street, and nosy curious me couldn't pass up on seeing what the kissing booth was about.

Then I saw there were actual legit famous people in the booth. Lindsey Price who I loved on 90210 back in the days when she dated Steve. She's been in a bunch of sitcoms since then, and is now on lipstick jungle. Then there is Jessica Szohr, who is on Gossip Girl. I LOVE LOVE LOVE that show, call me a 13 year old girl, and I will say you are probably right. Anyway two celeb meetings within my first week of NY, that has to be a good omen right?

Sunday I tried out a church called Forefront that a San Francisco friend, Camilo suggested. He actually helped start up the church four something years ago, and it meets in the Blender theatre on 23rd street. Very nice young crowd. I will be joining a small group on social justice next week, and am hopeful to meet some like minded people that I can befriend.

The church was right by madison square park and the famous Flat Iron building! This building was completed in 1902 and was considered one of the first skyscrapers ever!

After church I walked around and ended up bumping into this lovely building!

Hello Empire State Building!

It was funny thinking about how I used to take a class there every Friday with a horrible professor from Colombia when I spent my summer in NY with SITC.

Then I walked to this fun terminal and was wowed again by the chandeliers! I heart the inside of the Grand Central Station.

That my friends was just a glimpse of some of my new happenings, and I can't wait to experience more, meet more people, and feel like a resident of this fabulous city..and not just a tourist!!!!

Any excuse to have a party....

2009-02-09T16:06:00.000-08:00

My friend Jenn Held who has a beautiful apartment in pac heights offered to have my going away party at her place. My mom and grandma outdid themselves with amazing horderves and desserts, I made a fun play list, and a lot of my out of town friends drove the distance to come help send me off. I feel sooo lucky that this many special people celebrated the ending of an era, and the start of a new season with me on Saturday night.

My mom and grandma actually hung out at the party for a while, and it was so great they could join in the party, they are pretty hip if I say so myself. Enjoy the photos!!!

The photo does not do the table justice

My mamacita and I! Jarrod said for the first time he realized how much we look alike, we get that all the time. :)

Jennie, Adam, Scott, and Awesome apartment dweller Jen

My friend Luis and I always have a great time together, and it doesn't matter what we do. Him, Jessica, and I are often a happy little trio. I wish the trio could continue the good times in NY, wink wink.

Three generations of party girls... well my grandma is more bake for the party type (although I Have my suspicions she was probably a bit rowdy in her young days. Aunt Sandy or Aunt Janie- can you confirm this?), Mom was a party girl after her one much too strong drink Nick made her... ha, and me the constant hello I'm back, goodbye I'm going party girl.

Myriah my faithful and loyal blog reader who thinks we look like sisters in this picture. People do think I'm jewish all the time. :)

Fresno meets Marinwood

The blissfull Cooper siblings

Margarita happy hour crew: Ernesto, Ashley, Matthew, and me

Jennie Cooper and Jason Kim, same sound....different letters

These girls were both in my sorority and went to Italy with me, Katie (our fourth) we missed you!

Such great fun SF people I will miss lots and lots

Mr. Tyler Savage and Lola the Chihuahua. Tyler gets the award for driving the farthest, he came all the way from Hume Lake ( an hour past Fresno). Tyler is truly one of the most genuine, charming, and distinguished gentlemen you will ever meet, I think he sadly was born in the wrong era. He's one to watch world, he's going places.

I heart diversity!

Charly, a fellow blogger... has an amazing blog! check out hayescentral.org to the right.

I hadn't seen Derrick since Davis (6 years ago) maybe? Derick you look great!

Tyler and his biggest fan, My Nanny.

Davis crew and a sneaky Jennie :) I'm sorry you got blocked Steph, Jennie, and Ty!

My (not so small) small group! This group made my time back home in SF too fun, too full, and too hard to say goodbye!

Single ladies on the loose in SF! Carry on the fun times girls, and am so excited for when you both visit in the spring!!!!

Jen and her beautiful glowing pregnant self. I can't wait to meet baby girl Emma!

Jennie owning the paris hilton face. Note, Jennie was Paris hilton for Halloween two years ago, so she had plenty of practice. ha.

Andrew my favorite musician and Italy port partner, came all the way from Fresno for this party! Thanks for making the drive, I'm sure Fresno greatly felt your loss for the day. :)

My Davis peeps!!!! Kelli Sholer (in bright blue) is also a fellow blogger, make sure to check out her link to the right, she writes about a wide variety of interesting things! :)

Another interesting photo fact, Jen (pregnant blonde on left), Ann (blonde behind Jarrod), Aubrey (redhead in purple) and I all lived together for two years in college. Tyler (tall blonde in black), Jarrod (front row in grey), Jen, Bronwyn (Jarrod's wife behind Kelli), and I all spent the summer in Italy together. Were you able to follow? Probably not! ha

Camilo, a former New yorker pointed me to a great church in NY he helped start.

Unfortunately it took everyone on average about 40-45 minutes to look for parking. Greg and Myriah almost gave up, and I came outside just to say hi and bye to them briefly....but then Greg was bold, looked for parking AGAIN, and finally found a spot like 7 blocks away. These two earn the fearless parking award!

The view from the balcony was great!

Lola made the rounds- Smart Jen to practice on dogs before babies!

Yes Lola is wearing Diamonds and Derrick's friend is howling.

as Aubrey said "Nick looks way too natural."

The men loved Lola, or rather...she loved the Men.

Proof is in the photos, look at her face. ha

I love love love love love love my San Francisco friends and have no idea how I will ever meet NY friends as great as them, but will sure try.

Thank you everyone for giving me a great send off!!!!

Last night in Marin

2009-02-07T21:23:00.000-08:00

Every time I'm back in the bay I have to have a margarita happy hour with my favorite ex coworkers. We all met at our time together at Marin Conservation Corps, and even though Ashely, Dan, and I have moved on...Matthew and Natalie are still impacting the local community on a daily basis through their work at MCC. We missed Dan, who was doing some snow related activity, but like always...we enjoyed the dark dive bar that is Celias!

Ashley actually brought her boyfriend Ernesto, they are visiting from Nicaragua. I really really really hope I can go visit them some time in the next year or so.

These lovely hippie woman accept me for the girly girl that I am :)

We swapped out Dan for a central American!

Ashley is one of my favorites!

Ashley and Ernesto

For my last night out in Marin, after my happy hour of course, I had wanted a low key night with my "original homies." We went to Marin Joes ( a cooper institution), and then the silver peso for an awkward 20 minutes. ha. What can I say, we are just to0 cityish to relax at the silver peso...at least on a friday night.

I started to cry at dinner a little bit, and that was really the only time I broke down about leaving. For the most part coming home from Tokyo and then leaving less than a week later for New york didn't even give me time to process or be sad. I just so appreciate all the special friends in my life, and wanted a simple dinner to pretend like everything was going to stay the same.

Me- the self appointed guest of honor.

Steph is so brilliant, I brought her back these reusable recycled plastic bags...and they velcro together, which I thought was a cool enough reason to buy them. Then she discovered that on one side they say, delicate or laundry...and the other, paper or plastic. So you can use them to separate your recycling or for laundry bags. The Japanese are soooo smart!

Marin joes!

Sister Sister

Steph has the pink hilights I have always wanted, and still want!

Luis mi compadre!!!

I heart my coopers!!!!

The fabulous dinner party!

Out at the silver Peso

My two absolute favorite boys!!!!

This is a silly little video of all of us tasting a drink I brought back for Nick. He always likes exotic foreign food, even though he looks like your average white yuppy ;)

SNOW DAY

2009-02-03T18:53:00.000-08:00

this is the street I'm living on for the month (thats a long story).

Today was my second day in New York and it snowed ALL DAY LONG!!!!

I feel like I'm walking on a movie set, it's so crazy!

Tokyo odds and ends

2009-02-03T18:28:00.000-08:00

Ninth Floor

View from my room in the morning

Same view at night

Shimokitazawa

Um yes I look very freaky, yet whats

more mind boggling is that somewhere out there, people actually own these!!!

This was HILARIOUS!!!! Who wants to step on this scale?

Almost bought these for Wyatt and Emma, but knew their mommies would be scared. Again somewhere out there, small children have these horrific binkies in their mouths.

A neighborhood shrine in my favorite area, Shimokitazawa. I am highly amused that someone left Sake as an offering.

That's me, turning a sacred religious area into a photo opp.

For about 6 US dollars, you can get a reusable Whole foods bag. I'm telling you, they are very hip in Japan.

Visited my favorite spot three times while in Tokyo, and will miss the awesome shops and mellow streets.

The GHIBLI Museum

I went on a field trip with the film class to the most prominent animation studio in japan, it was like an interactive museum. Even though it's not really my scene, I appreciated the quirky museum and all of the exhibits and pretty architecture. Once again photos weren't allowed, but when has that stopped me before!?!

The film class!

Every corner of the museum looked different, but it was always brightly painted and eye catching!

The lovely mural at the entrance

When in Japan...be silly?

Our reward for climbing this crazy bird cage staircase was

this fun robot on the roof. The robot has been used in some

Japanese movie, wish I could tell you which one, but odds are you probably haven't seen it anyway.

I finally saw a robot in Japan- just not the jetson kind I expected.

The views from outside were stunning, I spent a good 20 minutes just strolling and sitting in the outside areas.

In the pretty garden area enjoying some sun!

Think what you will of my crocs, I admit they are quite dreadful looking, but these happy purple maryjanes allowed me to prance around Tokyo without ever complaining about uncomfortable shoes once! I lived in my black pair when I taught in Mexico and stood for endless hours, and plan to use these purple shoes for discovering NY. Or perhaps NY deserves a new color?

LOST AND FOUND!!!!

So you might ask what the heck is inside this plastic bag, and why did I take a picture of it? Well I accidentally left my ipod in a hotel room I had stayed in for less than 24 hours, and had hurriedly checked out of. When I went back to collect my ipod, not only was that there, but also some lotion and a 1 cent yen piece I had left behind. Moral of this story the Japanese don't steal. What a nice change of scenery from anywhere else in the world!

Harajuku Sale!!!

watch this short video to see how they promote good sales in Tokyo!

Boiled/roasted sweet potatoes from a harajuku street cart

.....eh marginal at best, but worth a try.

Tokyo Disney!

2009-02-03T15:06:00.000-08:00

Yes it's a gross product of westernization, and yes I haven't been to Disneyland since I was like 14, and yes it was one of my only complete free days...but it doesn't matter- I went to TOKYO DISNEY LAND!!!

Here is a little slide show of our fun day filled with beautiful Sunny weather!!!!

This totally makes me want to go to Disneyland in Cali again!

Pure

2009-02-01T17:51:00.000-08:00

All 38 of us headed out one Friday night to a club that was pretty much overrated, but when 19 year olds pick the venue...that is what you get. (no offense if any of them read this) It was one of those places that you pay x amount, they slap a wrist band on you, and you can drink all the drinks you want for the whole night. That my friends is a recipe for disaster when you have mostly students who can't even legally go out in the U.S.

Mohamed and I weren't technically working that night, and went on our own free will to hang out with them, but really the night consisted of taking care of them for the most part and making sure they got home safely. I finally went home in a taxi around 3:30 am with two students who needed help standing, and pretty much tucked one into bed. Ha ha!!!

Oh how the times have changed. All in all, I did enjoy dancing for hours and sadly had achy knees for the next two days. I am feeling my age more and more with every late night out.

Waiting for the bus to come with Marina!

With Jason one of the students, he is half Dominican, half Polish...what an awesome combo!

The DJ was pretty good actually!

There were tons of military men swarming around the ladies

Liz and I on the dance floor.

The end of the night looking spent

Panasonic can redo my house anytime!!!

2009-02-01T17:17:00.000-08:00

We went on a field trip to Panasonic one day and saw the "house of the future." This house consisted of a home that is so technologically hip, you instantly lust after every square inch. We weren't allowed to take pictures inside, so sadly I will have to go off of memory. Imagine a home that has a shower with five different settings, an outdoor shower with nature settings, a kitchen that comes alive with the push of buttons, and is so beyond efficient. Then there is the largest plasma flat screen tv in the world that not only shows movies and blue ray tv, but also projects images from scenic vistas around the world. With one click you can be on an island with palm trees flowing in the wind, or a babbling brook that sounds like its really in your living room, and so on, so on, so on.

The personal home theatre, the interactive gym, the life wall where your child could have a book be read out loud to her, the video conferencing that allows you to work from wherever in the world, or talk to someone in another room are just some of the amazing benefits to this home. Everything was eco this, eco that, and you can only imagine the clean simple lines of this home. I've seen a taste of the future folks, and it's pretty amazing. The question is will we be able to afford the future Panasonic offers us.

Some of the business students

After exiting the house of the future it started to rain...

After the home tour we got to play with some of their other inventions and nintendo! Then we headed off to the largest conference room I've ever seen and had a Q&A with the head of marketing that they flew down from Osaka. It was a really interesting field trip!

Not sure how Nintendo and Panasonic are connected, but apparently they are.

They had a fun sparkly wall.

The huge conference table, I felt like such an imposter.

Chiba

2009-01-29T13:48:00.000-08:00

Ok I didn't have my own camera the first week, so I didn't want to post about Chiba Japan until I had photos. Now that all of us are home, photos have been uploaded to Facebook, and I can share with you about Chiba.

our first day in Japan we left the airport hotel and drove into Chiba. We made our way to the largest Buddha in Japan. Now Morgan, the professor, had a great idea to catch sunset up at the observatory. I had no idea what was in store for me, but let me tell you it involved the most stairs I Have ever climbed in my life. I tried googling to find out exactly how many stairs there were, to no avail, but trust me...hundreds, maybe a thousand? It made the duomo in Florence, or the great wall of china look like a stroll comparatively.

our group!

The sunset I guess was worth all the stairs

We stayed at this squash retreat center called Sunset Breeze. Chiba is definitely the beach side suburbs outside of Tokyo. Even though its only a little more than an hour outside of the city, most Tokyo born Japanese have never seen the ocean, or been to the beach. People in Japan rarely travel within their own country, it's rather interesting.

So there we were at this simple beautiful facility, and when I say simple, I mean group shower rooms, sleeping on mats, etc. All of us together for the first time, with the sea to look at, and no where to go. Like I mentioned before we played a lot of UNO, took classes on Japanese culture, walked to the local grocery store, and if one had energy for the 45 minutes walk- 711! We all got over our jet lag and geared up for the following 20 days.

some of my students on their mats

The grocery store we loved.

our classroom.

our view from the sunset breeze dining room, note the footsall court.

I played footsall, which is like soccer, but you can play right in front of the goal. I'm sure there are other differences, but I don't remember. ha. All I know is that I am horrible at organized sports, but I ran left and right, kicked when I could, rarely actually kicked a ball, and ended up with a horrible bruise. Seriously I had the bruise for two weeks on my leg!

One day we had the choice of either making a fan or doing a traditional block print. There were technical Japanese words for these artforms, but I don't remember then sadly. I of course had time to make both! :)

Elizabeth and I with our fans

My print!

our group again.

We also went on this little hike up in the hills of the country side. Daffodils were everywhere, and it was gorgeous. We wrote haiku's, and as much as a bunch of new yorkers can, we absorbed nature.

me in the lovely countryside!

One morning we also went to a local fish market to see a timeless Japanese tradition. Japan is an island, so clearly fishing is a big industry, but most youth don't want to carry on the job. Local restaurants go and bid on the daily catches, and its guaranteed to be super fresh.

walking to the market

who doesn't want that for lunch!

The last night we were in Chiba, some local business men and their families had been invited over for a Japanese BBQ. They brought high quality sake (man is that stuff potent), some local snacks, and a delicacy. Now when in Rome is the attitude I had to have to handle the local delicacy. This will shock you all, and Stephanie don't hate me, but we had bottle nosed whale! yes I know!!!

So they also had this old Japanese woman come and sing a special song they would sing when they brought the fresh whale catch in from the ships. Only two or three women still know the authentic song, so it was an honor that she performed it for us all. So there we were, a bunch of Americans eyeing this whale, listening to the song, trying to appreciate the cultural moment for what it was, and not get freaked out. I was not a fan of all the seafood we consumed that week, cooked or uncooked. I mean no salmon, or regular shrimp to be found, we are talking sea creatures that don't roam our waters, or grace our Californian tables.

examples:

my lunch one day....um yeah

pre hot pot, but even cooked...I wasn't so sure about this sea food...

my hot pot table group

Anyway so there I am, a plate full of BBQ Veggies, never have I been so thankful to see onions! I wanted to try the whale, because somehow it proved that I was more diverse, cultured, and traveled. So I got a second pair of chopsticks to use specifically for the whale, not wanting to contaminate any of my precious onions, and I went for it. Now by going for it, I mean, I took the smallest bite known to man, and I lived to tell you that it tasted like steak. It was actually very tasty, not at all blubbery or gross, and I wish I could have gotten over the image of a whale, and finished it.

Here's me about to try the whale....

haha

I did try local cured sea weed...it was salty...as to be expected.

Surprise surprise, with a room full of underage students, and numerous bottles of sake- you can imagine the party that followed. The Japanese men got rip roaring drunk, our students loudly saying "kompai" (cheers) ever five seconds, and Mohamed and I trying to get them to drink water and slow down. You can imagine the evening of talking students into going to bed when they were obviously on the verge of being sick, or taking care of them when they were sick, and laughing at their antics.

cheers

the girls were tame, well most of them :)

this was a rowdy group!

The next day we all got on a big bus and headed to Tokyo, and life got a lot faster.

Asakusa Tokyo

2009-01-21T03:30:00.000-08:00

So even though I came to Japan with no expectations, well I guess to be honest I had a few. I am smart enough to know that there wouldn't be Geishas on every corner, but I did expect more traditional japan style architecture. The type we see in movies, books, our imaginations...etc.

While I was on my way too long bus trip to the over hyped Tokyo Tower (no opinions in that sentence at all) yesterday, I ended up talking to a sweet Japanese woman who lives in L.A. She asked me how many more days I had in Tokyo and told me to make sure to visit Asakusa.

So today I found myself in Asakusa with Mohamed (the fellow chaperon), and in less than four hours feel like I got the classic Japan I wanted to see. I'm sure if I had traveled outside of Tokyo to Kyoto and beyond, I would have seen my fill of shrines, temples, Japan architecture, and even a geisha or two. Buy why travel and pay more when I can just take the Ginza train to the last stop, and enter "Harajuku for senior citizens", or classic Edo Japan.

I wanted to fit in like the locals so here I am wearing my own mask on the train. No worries, not sick, just wanted to see how the other half lives.

Stepping out of the metro you are greeted with market surroundings.

Their cute plastic hangings that look like cherry blossoms!

We hadn't had breakfast or lunch so to forge ahead with shopping, we tried some of these bean curd pastries. The lady recommended Apricot, and it was super yummy.

yum

We continued on towards the temple and saw these adorable kids playing in a school yard. The school uniforms are precious here, I mean I would never be caught dead in one, but they have their Madeline book charm.

Then we found a shop that had some souvenirs we wanted to buy. I got my boss Gary something lovely, and Mohamed bought four or five things. This woman asked us if we were American and then said OBAMA. She laughed, we laughed, and then she started calling Mohamed Obama Son. Ha. She was so cool and ended up giving Mohamed two free magnets, and each of us an origami swan. She kind of reminded me of Rafikki from Lion King, but in every nice way imaginable. ha.

She handed me this head thing as a prop for our photo. ha.

It just got neater looking as we headed closer to the temple.

We reached the temple that apparently if you touch a certain part, makes you live longer. Hence why they call this area Harajuku for the elderly, the senior citizens do their shopping and then touch the stone.

Not sure what this is called, but you burn a type of sage for a good blessing. We saw quite a few pregnant women there praying over their unborn children.

Buddha

Very ornate and pretty

We walked through the temple and out the back to a garden area that was complete with a Koi pond. It looked just like the Japanese tea gardens at Golden Gate Park...err maybe GGP looks just like the real Japan gardens. ha. Ironically I had never really thought about the fact that I have always loved the Japanese Tea Gardens at GGP, and remember even going there for one of my birthdays. Thanks for humoring me Mom.

In the Gardens.

Ok before we leave the temple completely I have a funny experience to share with you. You can pay 100 yen (around a dollar plus conversion rate) for a daily fortune. If you like the fortune you carry it away with you, if you don't like the fortune you tie it to these rack things, and supposedly leave the bad fortune at the temple. Of course I couldn't not try my luck.

Here's what my fortune said:

We continued on and found this fun photo opp-

Kassaundra as a ninja- so fierce!

Loved this colorful wall!

Trying to get some of my good fortune back!!!!

Wished this cute bus was our ride home

Glad this wasn't my ride home.

As we were heading back to the metro I heard my name yelled and saw Henry and Catherine, two of our students across the street.

Sometimes it's a small small world!

Hope YOU all had a Fabulous day! It's raining here and I'm off to bed soon.

Besos,

Kassaundra

Tokyo Tower!

2009-01-20T04:30:00.000-08:00

Inspired by the Eiffel tower, the Tokyo Tower stands not so tall in typical Japanese red. I was bound and determined to get my pictures, see the tower, and have my observational deck experience. All in all-the trek, 10 dollars, and time wasn't really worth it. It didn't help that we had overcast weather that made my hopes of seeing a pretty sunset disappear. I did buy a cute water bottle in the shape of the tower, and even though it's toxic to reuse plastic, I will savor this little water bottle as long as I can.

Enjoy the photos!

Random Tokyo Moments

2009-01-19T08:05:00.000-08:00

So one of my students discovered a really good Halal restaurant that Britney Spears herself ate at this past December, and two times might I add. SO I of course HAD to find it, and they have a photo to prove it. Well the place is so amusing because well for one thing, the food is amazing! I got the spicy chicken wrap whatever you call it with garlic sauce, and Turkish orange cider. Secondly, the Turkish guys who work there are hilarious. Turkish boy number 1 (he speaks the most English), or I'll just call him lover boy, performed magic acts with my change, and told me he made my halal with love. It gets better trust me, he laid it on thick. Anyway we took our pictures, got our Britney giggles, found out Fifty Cent has also eaten there, and went on our merry way.

Ivana and I having our first halal meal ever. (Ivana is on the far right)

lover boy and his turkish sidekick

The next night Mohamed (my fellow chaperon) and I found ourselves student free in need of dinner, so off to Halal we went. Lover boy immediately asks me if Mohamed is my body guard or boyfriend (ha), and then serves up more laughs. I got to actually sit on the same chair as Britney did this time ( I know I'm being so silly), and decided halal food just might be the best meal I've had in Tokyo. Sounds sinful to say, but it's the truth.

Britney Spears herself!

Sitting exactly where Brit did!

Mohamed went to the bathroom, lover boy asked for my digits, I then gently and politely declined...but did promise to come back for my third and last visit before I leave.

Loverboy blowing a kiss...ha he was hilarious!

Anyway our random night continued with a walk around the city, From Harajuku to Shibya, and so on. It wasn't too cold, and I just took everything in.

Funny moment found below in this silly video clip of a questionable information center.

I'm off to bed smiling because its kind of fun that in such a crazy complex world, I can get a really big smile from sharing a seat and some halal with a silly pop princess in Tokyo. Simple pleasures people, that's what it's about!

Skype me

2009-01-18T19:51:00.000-08:00

I finally downloaded Skype and just used it to talk to Mom and Nanny for a half hour!!! If you have skype on your computer we can chat for free. You can find me on skype as KassaundraGT, looking forward to some possible video chat :)

Kass

Word Vomit

2009-01-17T21:31:00.000-08:00

As I write out my blog on word and wait on my room to open up at 3 that will give me intranet acess, I hear one of my students skyping in russion to her mom and four year old little sister. I’m just amazed at what a global and profound world we live in. She switches back and forth from Russian into English, and it’s seamless, warm, and part of her family dynamic. As I open my wallet and frustratingly find pesos, American coins, and now yen, I’m reminded of the blessing it is to have used all these currencies in the past two months. It’s my own fault that I haven’t organized my wallet, typical me, typical chaos. Maybe there is a piece of me that holds onto Mexico through a peso or two in my jacket pocket, a receipt in my wallet, and unanswered emails that demand my concentration to write in Spanish.

Looking back at how I imagined my life to look at this age, it would never be this. I imagined something way more normal, way more settled, way more borring (for me). Maybe being settled is underrated, maybe I would enjoy not living out of a suitcase, maybe I would enjoy not having a deadline to say goodbye or hello to loved ones in the future. This is the journey that I chose, and I am determined to live each season of my journey up as much as I can.

Not sure why I’m feeling reflective on this Sunday afternoon, maybe it’s all my caffeine hitting me, or the restful night of sleep I got. Maybe it’s that when you are far away from everything that is normal for you, you begin to question what you really need and want to survive. For example many nights I leave my main luggage in some room, and just take an overnight bag to the hotel. You learn real quick what you need to survive, I don’t need eye cream, just the makeup remover. I don’t need my jewelry case, just the same ones Im wearing. I don’t need my jacket and my fleece, or a matching scarf, just choose one and deal. I trudge along with my overnight bag stuffed pulling down on my arm as I maneuver the metro. I’m continuing to become more and more simplified, independent, and content In all situations. I’m not perfect, I still like good hair days, showers, and constant internet…but I’m learning, stretching, and growing into someone that Im more proud of. No one wants to be that person who is always complaining, picky, or difficult to share, travel, and be with.

As silly as it is, I was very proud of myself when I ordered Raman spicy level 3 (out of 5) when I had lunch last week. Two years ago I would have just ordered level 1, or not even got it, because there was mystery things unnamed in English floating around the soup. Now I put tobasco in my spaghetti, chili peppers on my pizza, and eat level three like a champ….now this is something to celebrate, I have trained myself to want more, need more.

I feel like I have been in Tokyo for three months, that is not a bad thing. It just seeped in, all of a sudden now my days are numbered and I still have so many things to do, places to see. I’m getting my second wind and will take a walk through yoyogi park today, get something warm to drink , try to avoid a hat I’m eyeing (it’s amazing when you start needing hats to keep warm, how attractive they become), and just enjoy a Sunday in another culture, another land.
I get a few days in my next room, and that is a reason to be happy. I appreciate the idea of being able to open my big suitcase, rediscovering clothes I brought, and not having to check out by 11.

The Tokyo tower is calling my name for tomorrow, it’s a reproduction of the Eiffel tower in red. You know me, I want my photos. I also need to check out Shinjuku (reputable shopping and browsing area), ginza in more detal (5th ave. of Tokyo), and find something for my Mom. She told me not to get her anything, but she deserves something special. I’ve been looking, and am crossing my fingers that I find something for her.

Thanks for reading a non typical blog from me, I appreciate you all!

Besos from Japan,

Kass

Can I check in please?

2009-01-14T04:52:00.000-08:00

I'm sorry that my blogging has been infrequent, to be honest I'm so tired that I just usually don't have the energy. Also I've had to check in and out of my various rooms multiple times recently, and now will be checking in and out every day until I fly home. Not Fun!!! The place we are staying at is affordable but not accommodating, so I have to check out of room 328, for 632. What's the logic there? who knows. Tonight I'm at a hotel, and I can't even tell you where the neighborhood is. It's a 50 minute train ride away. ha.

We visited the American embassy today and then Mohamed (the fellow chaperon) and I walked from Roppongi to Shabuya to Yoyogi park (where everyone is staying). Anyway It was about three hours of walking, miles covered, and another wonderful electric night of Tokyo saved as forever memory. We sat at a starbucks overlooking Shabuya (tokyo's timesquare) and just watched the massive craziness that is the intersection, check out the videos below. This city is unique, in some ways doesn't live up to the electronic hype...but in other ways is indescribable.

This video is from one of the plazas in Tokyo times square:

This video is from the view at Starbucks:

This video is from inside a train, and shows how quiet and orderly they are:

Final note on Shabuya, watch this video about the famous Dog statue!

It's almost 10 pm, I have to check out in the morning, take my overnight bag and laptop back to Yoyogi where everyone is staying, and wait to check in at 3. The joy of constantly moving, but hey if I have to do that....I'm glad it's here.

I leave you with a cool moment from Monday:

Was walking through Yoyogi park (Tokyo's central park), and my ipod play list was rockin. I strutted out to the Ting Tings (who I happily discovered while in Mexico) and fondly recalled their music video that I had watched on the Virgin airplane on my way to NY in November. Anyway the next morning guess whats playing as a new hit on the Tokyo radio.....the Ting Tings!!!! So Tokyo may have way hipper clothes than I own in my closet, they may have heated toilet seats....but I got the new music down before them!

Night everyone!

Kass

night life

2009-01-10T05:42:00.000-08:00

Thursday was a normal day filled with classes and lectures, but one of our students also celebrated her birthday. A group of us got together and went to Rhoppongi, which is the expensive, modern, ex patriot area. Basically I heard and saw more English speakers in a few concentrated blocks then I have in my whole week here.

We went to a bar that had an annoying one drink minimum, and I paid $7 dollars for a diet coke! I mean really? for soda? Oh well.

One good thing was that there was a DJ, and he played ALL of our requests

. Chris Brown, Britney, Rhiana, etc.....so with fun people

, good music, diet coke, and of course friendly Japanese men, we were able to have quite the evening.

We ended up staying out till about 3 am, the last trains run at 1 am, so we

took a cab home. It's so interesting that such a huge big city wouldn't have 24 hour trains. Also there is the stereotype that has been proven true 10 times over, but Japanese men like to drink. This bar was filled with stockbroker types who apparently like to unwind on a Thursday night with $10 beers. I will say, they had some great dance moves.

Enjoy the videos!

Kass

this and that

2009-01-09T18:20:00.000-08:00

I’m finally in Tokyo now, and this city has exceeded any expectations I had. Honestly I have been so busy and in love with Mexico these past few years that I didn’t expect much. Tokyo is by far the hippest place I’ve been to- no contest. Woman clack by in deadly heels, artificially colored beautiful hair, heavy eyeliner, and designer labels anywhere they can fit them. We learned in Business class last week that 1 in 2 Japanese girls, ages 20-20, have a Louie Vuitton bag. They carry their LV, Prada, and Gucci like we carry Trader Joes grocery bags. It’s crazy!

Men are certainly not afraid of color or style and prance around with amazing bone structure, just rolled out of bed post sex rock star hair. They probably take longer to get ready than the girls applying their harajuku makeup.

Bottom line if you want to feel like a boring 3 color banana republic wearing American, come to Tokyo. It’s fairly cold, colder than San Francisco, so I walk around in my blue coat or Purple Colombia fleece….Fleece just screams fashion statement for sure. Ha.

Trains are quick, clean, quiet, and complete with seat warmers, can you believe it!!!!!

one of the trains...

The map is pretty chaotic!

This train had a mexican pork theme- hilarious!

Clack Clack

many wear the SARS masks.

The Japanese know how to please; you should see their toilet seats! They have built in warmers, buttons to just make the flush sound (for more privacy if you are in public restrooms and want noise to cover your poop session), deodorizer spray, and of course bidets to minimize the use of “office paper,” (toilet paper). All they are missing is an ipod or wifi connection to make your bathroom the most enjoyable place ever.

This country is super efficient, trains are never late. Unless there is an “accident involving human” (suicide) . Apparently that happens almost weekly, and that’s the only time a train gets delayed. Overall I still think Hong Kong’s metro is even more impressive, but the Tokyo trains are fabulous. People don’t talk on trains; they play with their phones or read. Trains are always on time, and people are super respectful. No groping reported yet. I like to admire the hot heels, saucy commuting outfits, and occasionally practice the three Japanese words I know. I don’t have a gift for this language at all!

Americans sans high heels on the train.

Being the silly girl that I am, I love love love the vending machines here. They are filled with brightly colored drinks that have happy faces, or names like “blendy coffee.” I

t’s a cutesy girl’s dream! They even have hot drinks in the cold cases, like the starbucks espresso shot to go, heated and ready for you at all hours. Seriously, so intelligent! I pretty much have a goal to try a different fun drink a day, and to only base my purchase on packaging. :) Here are some of mine so far...

Ordering lunch this week at the university, such exciting meals like young chicken over rice or misleading meals that look like noodles and end up being something too exotic for comfort, is all out of a vending machine as well. You look at the photo menu; drop your coins in the machine, and push #34 for example. Out pops your ticket, you get in line, and there you have it….no cashier needed.

Ok ok enough about the gadgets, although I do have to say that I bought a camera. There are all these bright fun cameras, but I want what I had, and got it for a good price. So anyway I pray a blessing over this camera, may it not be stolen or lost. I went to Electronic city my first night in Tokyo, and basically it’s a geek’s dream! All kinds of stores where you can get whatever camera, lenses, computer gadget, etc. I got a 4-gig memory card for 10 bucks! Hellooooooo.
After a week of exotic fish in Chiba at sunset breeze we were eager to see a McDonalds in Electronic city. Pitiful I know, and I can blame it on the group I was with, because they did want to go to McDonalds…but I’m not gonna lie- French fries after sea week, clams, and sushi is an American girl’s best friend. The portions here are way smaller, and things tend to taste healthier. So there’s the tradeoff!

our Electronic city group

Cabs have a 7 dollar pick up fee, they are SOOO expensive!

Anyway we quickly developed a normal schedule of film students having classes at our facility, and business students heading off to Rikkio University. We are staying at the national Olympic youth center, and it was built to house all of the Olympian athletes in the 60’s. It’s definitely not a luxury place, and I have to check in and out 10 times out of my 14 days here at Yoyogi. They lack common sense when it comes to planning, and even though our program has had these rooms reserved for a YEAR, they still are very stringent. It’s a frustrating process and quite a headache herding up 36 students, their luggage, the luggage of students who traveled on the weekend, handing out new keys, and meanwhile having no where to go between 10 am and 3. So today as I wait for our new room keys, I’m taking advantage of our café on the ninth floor with a gorgeous view of Tokyo, and finally blogging.

I have more to write about, but am exhausted, and my overpriced 4 dollar doll house sized coffee is here. Tokyo is SOOO Expensive!!! Basically I haven’t gotten more than 5 hours of sleep on any night since I arrived on January second. I’m having a great time, and balancing chaperoning and enjoying my self hasn’t been a problem at all. But I’m so tired…

Hope you are all enjoying yourself.

Besos from Japan,

Kass

International Cuisine!

2009-01-09T08:30:00.000-08:00

I promise to blog more later, but for now check out this authentic mystery Japanese meal from dinner tonight. ha!

Happy weekend!

Kassaundra

alive and well....

2009-01-05T00:37:00.000-08:00

Hello everyone,

I’m alive and well in Chiba Tokyo, at Sunset Breeze, a beach resort. Granted it’s not beach season, so instead we are looking at the waves, playing footsal (Japanese football), group bonding, eating exotic fish, and of course playing Uno. As to be expected, I have taught the group how to play nuclear uno and even found a Japanese deck, so more students can play.

We have been having Japanese culture lectures and taking advantage of the free time in a slow moving town. Students trek a 45 minute walk to the exciting 711 for the atm, and snacks.

I’m really enjoying getting to know everyone and feel like a little mother hen watching over the group.

I do have to say the cuisine is a challenge. Today I had a Mackerel fish, which although wasn’t amazing, was far more appetizing than sushi, squid, or jack fish. Anyway it’s all about expanding horizens and trying new things, so here I am pushing myself to become one with seafood.

Although its fun being at this little resort with communal showers (gasp), I’m ready to head into the big city of Tokyo. Of course I’m also dying without a camera, seriously, my right hand is having with drawls.

Sayonara

arrived

2009-01-02T04:06:00.000-08:00

I made it to Tokyo!!!!

I'm so tired I just need to crash and sleep, and will update you later about my adventure to get here.

If you are a praying person, I need a miracle. My camera fell out of my purse on New Year's Eve around 10 pm at night. Of course it's a big bummer to lose your camera, especially when you are flying out to an amazing city the next day for an extended trip...but the bigger loss is the pictures. I had lots of great photos from New Years celebrating so far, and would love them back.

Pray that the person who has my camera sees my lost and found posting on craigslist and wants to reunite me with my loved camera. I still want to believe the best in everyone, and am crossing my fingers someone wants to participate in the golden rule!

Thanks and Goodnight!!!!!!

Kassaundra

Tokyo

2008-12-28T21:07:00.000-08:00

Konnichiwa (hello)

Did you know Tokyo is the most populated city in the world? It has over 32 million inhabitants and continues to grow daily.

Did you know New York is one of the sister cities of Tokyo?

I admittedly don't know that much about Tokyo (yet), but have a long new year's day plane ride to sleep off my new years eve celebrating, and of course to catch up on my reading. Thank you Erica Ogg, CNET extraordinaire, for recommending these two guides.

Anyone else have Tokyo suggestions? I have three weeks to explore the metropolis, and am looking forward to it. In the meantime I am going to depend on these little books to lead the way....

Sayonara (Goodbye)