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| An old, yet patriotic photo of me that I felt was appropriate for this occasion :-) |
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| This is where I would be if I were at home in Brisbane, Australia tonight |
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Happy Australia Day!
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Home
Home is more than a place in which one lives, home becomes an instinct. Just as birds are instinctively homing to their summer nesting grounds, so do we eventually feel drawn to the one place that becomes our home. We associate our homes with comfort, warmth, happiness, familiarity and predictability, each creating our own order and way of life.
I have had three very distinct, very precious homes. And a sweet story from a friend on Facebook has made me want to share a little about these homes.
The first was the rental on Annie St in Brisbane city, where my parents, brother and I lived when we'd first arrived from Kazakhstan to Australia. I was here until I was 11 years old. This home was surrounded by a community and network of almost all the kids I was at school and church with. Most of us were foreigners with complicated names and parents that were studying and working hard, which enabled us to have practically unsupervised afternoons on week days and get into all sorts of mischief as a result. Our different backgrounds taught us from an early age to embrace cultural and language differences and we each were able to grow confident in ourselves as a result. Our teachers encouraged very healthy unison through multicultural fusion and days were we would each bring a plate of our traditional food, or teach the classroom several words in our native languages.
To this day I maintain bonds of friendship with the kids and teachers from that school and in that suburb, whether forged through mutual punishments for convicted mischief, or through the difficulty in international acclimation and the tenacity it took to simultaneously learn English and keep up with the educational curriculum. I will always recall this home and these years of my life as some of the very happiest and best.
Age 11 brought much heart ache and misery, when the house my parents built was completed and I was forced to move across town to the South Brisbane suburb of Kuraby. A new suburb, new school, new teachers and kids; most of whom were Australian with the same culture, simple names and trouble saying mine. I felt very ostracized and instinctively gravitated toward the only other foreign girl there. We are still great friends, but she would be the last true friend I made during my adolescence in the south of Brisbane, for the following year brought high school and after that college, both adding more loneliness and misery.
I lived in this house until I was 19 and I've often wished I could call it a home, yet I can't. Family is one thing, but I was always happier when we were at the beach for holidays or away on weekends. I struggled keeping friends during these 8 years and begun to brood about a lot. It was excellent for my creative writing, since I wrote some of my best work up the stairs in that little back bedroom, but I was becoming a social recluse and developing some kind of depression as a result. All of this would, over the years, increase my negative associations with this house further.
My second home was in Rockhampton, QLD; where I moved at the age of 20 to pursue my college major and attempt independence. Rocky (as it's known in Aus) saved me! Here I met my sister and best friend for life, as well a multitude of other great friends and a family that quickly embraced me as their own; one that I could never now function without. I guess my attempt at independence failed, since I went from one family to another, but there is definitely something to be said for being loved unconditionally by a family that's not related to you: it grows your confidence immensely (while studying and slaving away in the hospitality industry helped too!).
I had believed that I would grow old in Rocky, preferably close to my bestie and the beach, yet at the age of 23, I was forced to give up my comfort zone, my bubble and home in Rockhampton due a force not to be reckoned with. It was one that had defeated me, body and soul: love. As I've previously mentioned, I'd fallen in love with a travelling American boy who was stationed temporarily on the other side of Australia. Despite fighting tooth and nail to deny the reality of my feelings and our future - I was overcome.
We lived together on the beautiful Scarborough Beach in Western Australia for six months, before an utter miracle took us back across the country to my beloved Rocky, where we were married less than two months later. It wasn't long hereafter (and by no great surprise) that we were uprooted again. In September 2010 (as most of my readers know), I made my second international migration, to the USA; and here, I have found my third home.
Although we've only just moved into a new apartment in Midtown Atlanta, and we're not fully settled in yet, I've now moved around so much that I'm not as attached to dwellings as I am to people. I've learnt that it's never the house that becomes a home - but rather the people in or around it. Having just celebrated our second wedding anniversary, I've realized that my love has only grown for this ungrounded, travelling boy and my third and final home is by his side. As my friend said today in his touching story:
I have had three very distinct, very precious homes. And a sweet story from a friend on Facebook has made me want to share a little about these homes.
The first was the rental on Annie St in Brisbane city, where my parents, brother and I lived when we'd first arrived from Kazakhstan to Australia. I was here until I was 11 years old. This home was surrounded by a community and network of almost all the kids I was at school and church with. Most of us were foreigners with complicated names and parents that were studying and working hard, which enabled us to have practically unsupervised afternoons on week days and get into all sorts of mischief as a result. Our different backgrounds taught us from an early age to embrace cultural and language differences and we each were able to grow confident in ourselves as a result. Our teachers encouraged very healthy unison through multicultural fusion and days were we would each bring a plate of our traditional food, or teach the classroom several words in our native languages.
To this day I maintain bonds of friendship with the kids and teachers from that school and in that suburb, whether forged through mutual punishments for convicted mischief, or through the difficulty in international acclimation and the tenacity it took to simultaneously learn English and keep up with the educational curriculum. I will always recall this home and these years of my life as some of the very happiest and best.
Age 11 brought much heart ache and misery, when the house my parents built was completed and I was forced to move across town to the South Brisbane suburb of Kuraby. A new suburb, new school, new teachers and kids; most of whom were Australian with the same culture, simple names and trouble saying mine. I felt very ostracized and instinctively gravitated toward the only other foreign girl there. We are still great friends, but she would be the last true friend I made during my adolescence in the south of Brisbane, for the following year brought high school and after that college, both adding more loneliness and misery.
I lived in this house until I was 19 and I've often wished I could call it a home, yet I can't. Family is one thing, but I was always happier when we were at the beach for holidays or away on weekends. I struggled keeping friends during these 8 years and begun to brood about a lot. It was excellent for my creative writing, since I wrote some of my best work up the stairs in that little back bedroom, but I was becoming a social recluse and developing some kind of depression as a result. All of this would, over the years, increase my negative associations with this house further.
My second home was in Rockhampton, QLD; where I moved at the age of 20 to pursue my college major and attempt independence. Rocky (as it's known in Aus) saved me! Here I met my sister and best friend for life, as well a multitude of other great friends and a family that quickly embraced me as their own; one that I could never now function without. I guess my attempt at independence failed, since I went from one family to another, but there is definitely something to be said for being loved unconditionally by a family that's not related to you: it grows your confidence immensely (while studying and slaving away in the hospitality industry helped too!).
I had believed that I would grow old in Rocky, preferably close to my bestie and the beach, yet at the age of 23, I was forced to give up my comfort zone, my bubble and home in Rockhampton due a force not to be reckoned with. It was one that had defeated me, body and soul: love. As I've previously mentioned, I'd fallen in love with a travelling American boy who was stationed temporarily on the other side of Australia. Despite fighting tooth and nail to deny the reality of my feelings and our future - I was overcome.
We lived together on the beautiful Scarborough Beach in Western Australia for six months, before an utter miracle took us back across the country to my beloved Rocky, where we were married less than two months later. It wasn't long hereafter (and by no great surprise) that we were uprooted again. In September 2010 (as most of my readers know), I made my second international migration, to the USA; and here, I have found my third home.
Although we've only just moved into a new apartment in Midtown Atlanta, and we're not fully settled in yet, I've now moved around so much that I'm not as attached to dwellings as I am to people. I've learnt that it's never the house that becomes a home - but rather the people in or around it. Having just celebrated our second wedding anniversary, I've realized that my love has only grown for this ungrounded, travelling boy and my third and final home is by his side. As my friend said today in his touching story:
Home is where the heart is.
Monday, January 16, 2012
Perspective
Last week on my way out of the shopping centre where I work, I held a door open for a lady who turned out to be Australian. Once again reiterating the fact that we live in a tiny world, for she was practically my next door neighbour in Brisbane; when I’d lived in Kuraby, she lived in Salisbury.
We blabbed like old friends the entire walk to the train station and on the train through the three stops I make daily. As this was her very first week in Atlanta, she made me laugh as she pointed out the things she was noticing for the first time about America and Americans: things I had also experienced upon arrival but had long since forgotten about; things that don’t stand out at all anymore.
She pointed out (as I once had) that the sheer variety in retail over here is mind blowing. There is MORE of everything from shower curtains and tea strainers to furniture, makeup and clothing.
Another thing a fresh Aussie notices is the sky! Even in the summer months, the sky in America is a lighter blue –a faded blue, compared to the vibrant one in the sky above OZ.
The other major difference that is sure to disorientate is that –aside from driving on the opposite side of the road and having the steering wheel on the opposite side of the car – people even walk in the opposite direction! And I had never noticed back home that the direction in which our escalators ran was the same as the direction of the road system until I came to the US and noticed it in reverse.
And one of the funniest and most honest things she said was: “it feels so good to be able to swear! Americans are so polite all the time, it seems inappropriate to – but Australians love to swear, it’s who we are! We’re suppressing who we really are when we aren’t swearing… it’s liberating when we get to talk freely!”
While it was nice to get a fresh perspective, it unsettled me to notice the changes within myself that I had subconsciously made! How could I be losing my Australian accent after a meager year in the States, when I was always the first to discriminate about those Australian super-stars who move to the States and “sell out” their Australian-ness after a mere decade!
Will says now that I’m used to life over here, when we go home for our visit in November; it’ll be home that feels strange and different. It will be interesting to see what strikes me as “odd” about my home! I never thought that was possible, but then, I never thought I’d stop ripping this bloody paper currency either!
... Now if I could just learn to spell in "English” the American way…
We blabbed like old friends the entire walk to the train station and on the train through the three stops I make daily. As this was her very first week in Atlanta, she made me laugh as she pointed out the things she was noticing for the first time about America and Americans: things I had also experienced upon arrival but had long since forgotten about; things that don’t stand out at all anymore.
She pointed out (as I once had) that the sheer variety in retail over here is mind blowing. There is MORE of everything from shower curtains and tea strainers to furniture, makeup and clothing.
Another thing a fresh Aussie notices is the sky! Even in the summer months, the sky in America is a lighter blue –a faded blue, compared to the vibrant one in the sky above OZ.
The other major difference that is sure to disorientate is that –aside from driving on the opposite side of the road and having the steering wheel on the opposite side of the car – people even walk in the opposite direction! And I had never noticed back home that the direction in which our escalators ran was the same as the direction of the road system until I came to the US and noticed it in reverse.
And one of the funniest and most honest things she said was: “it feels so good to be able to swear! Americans are so polite all the time, it seems inappropriate to – but Australians love to swear, it’s who we are! We’re suppressing who we really are when we aren’t swearing… it’s liberating when we get to talk freely!”
While it was nice to get a fresh perspective, it unsettled me to notice the changes within myself that I had subconsciously made! How could I be losing my Australian accent after a meager year in the States, when I was always the first to discriminate about those Australian super-stars who move to the States and “sell out” their Australian-ness after a mere decade!
Will says now that I’m used to life over here, when we go home for our visit in November; it’ll be home that feels strange and different. It will be interesting to see what strikes me as “odd” about my home! I never thought that was possible, but then, I never thought I’d stop ripping this bloody paper currency either!
... Now if I could just learn to spell in "English” the American way…
Friday, January 13, 2012
Getting to know you
Over Christmas time, Will’s uncle Sean leant me a book on astrology called “Linda Goodman’s Sun Signs.” It describes the typical characteristics and traits of each signs’ woman, man, child, employee, boss – and I can’t put it down!
I’m now analyzing everyone I know based on their sign and frequently muttering “so true” as I turn a page. Everyone in my life from my parents, brother and husband to casual acquaintance and work colleague has been studied over the past fortnight – because thanks to Facebook, I know everyone’s birthday!
I am not exempt from my own analysis! Some of the horrible things brought to my attention about being an Aries are:
- we have very black and white opinions, no gray area: people are either good or bad (I am learning to curve this however!)
- and once we decide someone is bad – they typically don’t get another chance and stay bad forever (this is hard to change, but I’m working on this too!)
- if we’re mad at someone, those close to us have to take our side – or else we argue!
- we tend to “overload” periodically from society and seek solitude
- we’re not morning people
- we hate/ can’t abide routine: that includes our jobs, we can’t do 9-5’s
- sleeping problems, kidney problems, heart problems
- FIRE SIGN: our interest in places, people and things burn like hot fire and then go out again just as quickly once we’re bored – for this reason we struggle to commit to projects, assignments and people! We rarely see things through til the end
- impatient
- impulsive, impulsive, impulsive (gets me in trouble sometimes!)
Some of the things I love about being an Aries are:
- loyalty, honestly, complete faithfulness
- we would never stab someone in the back, since we tend to tell people exactly what we are thinking (even when we shouldn’t!)
- once we decide someone is a good person:
- there is no limit to what we do for them!
- we share 100% in friendship: money, our homes, clothes.. you name it
- and never hold a grudge
- we don’t stay mad long
- we defend, protect them and always take their side
- we are creative and expressive.... some of the world’s most creative peeps were Arians including Vincent Van Gogh, Charlie Chaplin, Bach, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Quentin Tarantino , Elton John, Descartes, Hans C. Andersen , Harry Houdini and MANY more!... (if you want to see which famous people share your sign, check out: www.astrostar.com and search your sign.)
- impulsive, impulsive, impulsive (I love it also because my impulses are usually right!)
- can’t sit still, very active minded and seldom overweight
- not so much a love of travel as a constant need of change
- we are very spiritual and believe in miracles – because of our fervent belief, miracles tend to indeed happen to us Arians!
I have found this book and its “typical” descriptions of everyone in my life very accurate. If you’ve ever been curious about astrology, I’d recommend it! Now that everyone in my life has been analyzed (like the typical Aries I am), I am moving onto my next phase of interest: (and indecently the next book I’ve borrowed from Uncle Sean) the ancient astronaut theory.
But “Linda Goodman’s Sun Signs” will definitely be bought and filed on my bookshelf for instant reference as soon as a new person enters my life!
I’m now analyzing everyone I know based on their sign and frequently muttering “so true” as I turn a page. Everyone in my life from my parents, brother and husband to casual acquaintance and work colleague has been studied over the past fortnight – because thanks to Facebook, I know everyone’s birthday!
I am not exempt from my own analysis! Some of the horrible things brought to my attention about being an Aries are:
- we have very black and white opinions, no gray area: people are either good or bad (I am learning to curve this however!)
- and once we decide someone is bad – they typically don’t get another chance and stay bad forever (this is hard to change, but I’m working on this too!)
- if we’re mad at someone, those close to us have to take our side – or else we argue!
- we tend to “overload” periodically from society and seek solitude
- we’re not morning people
- we hate/ can’t abide routine: that includes our jobs, we can’t do 9-5’s
- sleeping problems, kidney problems, heart problems
- FIRE SIGN: our interest in places, people and things burn like hot fire and then go out again just as quickly once we’re bored – for this reason we struggle to commit to projects, assignments and people! We rarely see things through til the end
- impatient
- impulsive, impulsive, impulsive (gets me in trouble sometimes!)
Some of the things I love about being an Aries are:
- loyalty, honestly, complete faithfulness
- we would never stab someone in the back, since we tend to tell people exactly what we are thinking (even when we shouldn’t!)
- once we decide someone is a good person:
- there is no limit to what we do for them!
- we share 100% in friendship: money, our homes, clothes.. you name it
- and never hold a grudge
- we don’t stay mad long
- we defend, protect them and always take their side
- we are creative and expressive.... some of the world’s most creative peeps were Arians including Vincent Van Gogh, Charlie Chaplin, Bach, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Quentin Tarantino , Elton John, Descartes, Hans C. Andersen , Harry Houdini and MANY more!... (if you want to see which famous people share your sign, check out: www.astrostar.com and search your sign.)
- impulsive, impulsive, impulsive (I love it also because my impulses are usually right!)
- can’t sit still, very active minded and seldom overweight
- not so much a love of travel as a constant need of change
- we are very spiritual and believe in miracles – because of our fervent belief, miracles tend to indeed happen to us Arians!
I have found this book and its “typical” descriptions of everyone in my life very accurate. If you’ve ever been curious about astrology, I’d recommend it! Now that everyone in my life has been analyzed (like the typical Aries I am), I am moving onto my next phase of interest: (and indecently the next book I’ve borrowed from Uncle Sean) the ancient astronaut theory.
But “Linda Goodman’s Sun Signs” will definitely be bought and filed on my bookshelf for instant reference as soon as a new person enters my life!
Focus
Working in a shopping centre certainly has its disadvantages! Michael Kors was having a sale today, so of course I had to go in! $174 and a dream handbag later, I’m wondering how Will or I ever thought that my working in retail would be a good idea? Monkey see, monkey WANT!
Thoughts of decorating the new apartment, needing to visit the dentist or my dream month long trip back home, all fly out of the window when I arrive at work and see new merchandise displayed in a manner that suggests buying it would make my life complete… Aww temptation! If the Lord resides within a temple – the devil resides in retail!
I’m mentally adding “AVOID SHOPS – walk in and out of mall with head down” to my list of 2012 goals!
I’m determined to stay strong and think of… {below} instead!
Thoughts of decorating the new apartment, needing to visit the dentist or my dream month long trip back home, all fly out of the window when I arrive at work and see new merchandise displayed in a manner that suggests buying it would make my life complete… Aww temptation! If the Lord resides within a temple – the devil resides in retail!
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| photo credit: lov-3.net |
I’m determined to stay strong and think of… {below} instead!
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| photo credit: mrvpn.com |
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| photo credit: ngm.nationalgeographic.com |
Only 9 months to go!!
Monday, January 2, 2012
My 1st and 2nd miracles in 2012
2012 is already shaping up to be an amazing year! I awoke this morning and stood on the scales, (documenting my weight and being strict was a New Year's goal, remember?) eager to write down my weight and formulate an action plan of fitness to kick start immediately… when I noticed I am already at my goal weight! The hard-yakka I put in for the last three weeks of 2011 paid off!! This was my miracle #1! I get to start the New Year at my goal weight and everyone knows maintenance is easier than achievement, in weight terms.
Elated, I paced impatiently back and forth, waiting for Will to get off the phone so I could tell him my great news… when he abruptly hung up the phone and announced our miracle #2: that our planned two week trip back to Australia in November is being extended to a WHOLE MONTH!! Conveniently, his boss needs him to go back over for work – so another bonus? His ticket will be on the company!!
I can hardly contain my excitement and am so grateful and happy that I could burst! This reiterates how important it is to implement LOA (attraction) practices every single day!
Thursday, December 29, 2011
New Years' Resolutions
I hate the word resolution! No body ever sticks to them, but here is my list of GOALS for 2012 (with bonus pep-talks!):
+ try not to eat carbs – for they indeed are your enemy and you gain weight very fast when eating them!
+ religiously maintain new skincare regimen – you know how old you are, you don’t need to mention it online, but remember: IN 5 YEARS TIME YOUR SKIN WILL BE AS LEATHERY AND WRINKLY AS A PRUNE IF YOU DO NOT HEED THIS RESOLUTION!
+ walk Baxter EVERYDAY (unless raining, snowing or below 5 degrees outside) – no more using “I’m too tired” as an excuse, remember he is completely dependent on you and you need to be a better mum!
+ be in touch with Aus more often – BAD friend, BAD daughter, BAD sister!
+ write more
+ document weight/ fitness routine rigorously and hold yourself accountable – stay motivated, remember your metabolism isn’t what it was and that this is becoming a real issue for you!
+ try to be a better house-wife – yes cleaning sucks, and you’re pressed for time, but you never want to see those dust balls again (remember under couch when moving apartments)…
+ keep implementing “law of attraction” practices every day ~ it’s vital not to stop! (remember and be thankful for every miracle in 2011!)
+ try not to eat carbs – for they indeed are your enemy and you gain weight very fast when eating them!
+ religiously maintain new skincare regimen – you know how old you are, you don’t need to mention it online, but remember: IN 5 YEARS TIME YOUR SKIN WILL BE AS LEATHERY AND WRINKLY AS A PRUNE IF YOU DO NOT HEED THIS RESOLUTION!
+ walk Baxter EVERYDAY (unless raining, snowing or below 5 degrees outside) – no more using “I’m too tired” as an excuse, remember he is completely dependent on you and you need to be a better mum!
+ be in touch with Aus more often – BAD friend, BAD daughter, BAD sister!
+ write more
+ document weight/ fitness routine rigorously and hold yourself accountable – stay motivated, remember your metabolism isn’t what it was and that this is becoming a real issue for you!
+ try to be a better house-wife – yes cleaning sucks, and you’re pressed for time, but you never want to see those dust balls again (remember under couch when moving apartments)…
+ keep implementing “law of attraction” practices every day ~ it’s vital not to stop! (remember and be thankful for every miracle in 2011!)
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Girl meets boy
I seem to be daydreaming more and more as the date of my 2nd wedding anniversary approaches. It's strange to think as I sit here with the heater on, that I once belonged to a world where it is blistering hot this time of year. Summertime is in full (and scorching) swing in Australia and it was in summertime that I met Will. Scantily clad and sitting outside... I find myself grinning as I recall random, sweet and amazing moments of our almost three years together… like the night we met... (Queue the dream bubble)…
Saturday, 21st February 2009:
It was 6pm in the evening when I arrived at my girlfriend’s, wearing my short, crocheted, white ROXY dress with the sparkles all over it; my hair in curls and makeup light. The sun was still out and I noticed him instantly as I made my way to the kitchen where my friend was preparing the evening’s sides. He sat outside in the patio adjacent the kitchen – visible from about 20 different windows and a large, glass sliding door – smoking his Marlboro lights and sipping a beer. He wore his trademark military cutoffs (an ever present ode to his time spent in the Marine Corps), a red hat with Atlanta’s A symbol and a black singlet.
There were other people there of course and we all got along well. Will and I didn't have any one-on-one chats, just joined in with the group; but throughout the evening my interest and opinion of him increased as I found him to be funny, educated and of course... almost unbearably... sexy. The usual bbq chit-chat lasted for the next 7 hours or so, and it was at about 2am that I realized Will and I were the only ones left sitting out there at that table in a Central Queensland backyard, under the Milky Way.
He had no idea of constellations or planets so we lay on the grass and I explained the galaxy's greenish glow and Venus, pointed out various star signs and symbols. We talked and talked until soon, we were watching the sky change colours into those purple-pink-yellowish hues that arrive just before dawn, and knew it was time to call it a night. Needless to say, I didn't sleep a wink that morning and left as soon as I could... terrified. Although I didn't know him from Adam, I did know that he was amazing. And not at all like anyone else I'd ever met.
This terrified me because at that point in my life I was focused solely on my career. I had developed a cynicism towards men and relationships of any nature, with no interest in anything like that at all. Secretly and timidly, I read and re-read the Twilight series in bed each night - dreaming of an Edward Cullen of my own; but in reality, I was convinced there was only one place a man like that could ever exist; on paper.
In the short weeks that followed, Will proved me wrong. He turned out to be considerably more debonaire, dashing and romantic than old Ed Cullen. He was also persistent and constant, which a woman who'd been previously hurt needs. We spent every night for two months talking on the phone for hours; speaking of our families, achievements, failures, successes and dreams. I knew I loved him well before he met my parents in April; but I waited for him to tell me first.
In September 2009, Will proposed on Scarborough Beach in Western Australia and on Dec 28th that same year, we married on the Central Queensland beach of Rydges resort.
I know from experience that there’s no such thing as rushing love. If it’s really love, then it seems that rushed is the only way to be! Every minute apart feels like agony and I know I couldn’t stand to be away from Will. Things like logic or caring for your own self cease to exist; from the moment you fall in love, your focus becomes all about your life TOGETHER and nurturing it so that it grows strong. It’s rare and sacred to find the one you’re meant for, but as soon as you do – you just know. Every thought of previous relationships makes you want to laugh aloud for all the time wasted and tears cried.
Now, two years on, I recall the night we met and I realize every cliche' about love is true. Especially: I love him more today then when we'd just met.
Saturday, 21st February 2009:
It was 6pm in the evening when I arrived at my girlfriend’s, wearing my short, crocheted, white ROXY dress with the sparkles all over it; my hair in curls and makeup light. The sun was still out and I noticed him instantly as I made my way to the kitchen where my friend was preparing the evening’s sides. He sat outside in the patio adjacent the kitchen – visible from about 20 different windows and a large, glass sliding door – smoking his Marlboro lights and sipping a beer. He wore his trademark military cutoffs (an ever present ode to his time spent in the Marine Corps), a red hat with Atlanta’s A symbol and a black singlet.
There were other people there of course and we all got along well. Will and I didn't have any one-on-one chats, just joined in with the group; but throughout the evening my interest and opinion of him increased as I found him to be funny, educated and of course... almost unbearably... sexy. The usual bbq chit-chat lasted for the next 7 hours or so, and it was at about 2am that I realized Will and I were the only ones left sitting out there at that table in a Central Queensland backyard, under the Milky Way.
He had no idea of constellations or planets so we lay on the grass and I explained the galaxy's greenish glow and Venus, pointed out various star signs and symbols. We talked and talked until soon, we were watching the sky change colours into those purple-pink-yellowish hues that arrive just before dawn, and knew it was time to call it a night. Needless to say, I didn't sleep a wink that morning and left as soon as I could... terrified. Although I didn't know him from Adam, I did know that he was amazing. And not at all like anyone else I'd ever met.
This terrified me because at that point in my life I was focused solely on my career. I had developed a cynicism towards men and relationships of any nature, with no interest in anything like that at all. Secretly and timidly, I read and re-read the Twilight series in bed each night - dreaming of an Edward Cullen of my own; but in reality, I was convinced there was only one place a man like that could ever exist; on paper.
In the short weeks that followed, Will proved me wrong. He turned out to be considerably more debonaire, dashing and romantic than old Ed Cullen. He was also persistent and constant, which a woman who'd been previously hurt needs. We spent every night for two months talking on the phone for hours; speaking of our families, achievements, failures, successes and dreams. I knew I loved him well before he met my parents in April; but I waited for him to tell me first.
In September 2009, Will proposed on Scarborough Beach in Western Australia and on Dec 28th that same year, we married on the Central Queensland beach of Rydges resort.
I know from experience that there’s no such thing as rushing love. If it’s really love, then it seems that rushed is the only way to be! Every minute apart feels like agony and I know I couldn’t stand to be away from Will. Things like logic or caring for your own self cease to exist; from the moment you fall in love, your focus becomes all about your life TOGETHER and nurturing it so that it grows strong. It’s rare and sacred to find the one you’re meant for, but as soon as you do – you just know. Every thought of previous relationships makes you want to laugh aloud for all the time wasted and tears cried.
Now, two years on, I recall the night we met and I realize every cliche' about love is true. Especially: I love him more today then when we'd just met.
A spring in my step
November went by in a hurried daze as I put my "nose down and bum up" working to attain a promotion, prepare for Christmas and pack up our apartment. Upon receiving the news today that I have in fact received said promotion, things seem to have slowed down and I'm feeling happy and at peace with where I'm at.
The accumulation of my decisions that have paid off are making me pleased with my reflection as I smile at myself in the mirror. Those small changes I made weeks ago (like cutting carbs or switching to baby skin care products for the winter months) and those bigger and more recent ones (like our brand new apartment in Midtown and my promotion at work)... have amounted to a spring in my step and an eager anticipation of the season's festivities.
In my little family this is the busiest time of the year; it starts with Will's birthday on Saturday, then Christmas, then our wedding anniversary (which will be our second this year) and wrapped up with New Years Eve. This year, however, we will be adding: work promotion and housewarming to the party list.
I feel like the knowledge I've gained about the Law of Attraction this year should be celebrated too. It is absolutely the most valuable gift I could ever have received and has, without question, changed my life. I remember how bleak my life seemed last Christmas; as I questioned my move, my life, future, career and well everything. I never imagined how simple it would be to change my life through just thinking positive and trusting blindly. I now sit smiling as I realise such a weight is lifted off my shoulders with God's words from the bible ringing in my ears: "Ask, believe and you shall receive." My life has become proof of this very thing and I am grateful for everyone I meet, every experience I have and all of my amazing friends and family. Merry Christmas xo
The accumulation of my decisions that have paid off are making me pleased with my reflection as I smile at myself in the mirror. Those small changes I made weeks ago (like cutting carbs or switching to baby skin care products for the winter months) and those bigger and more recent ones (like our brand new apartment in Midtown and my promotion at work)... have amounted to a spring in my step and an eager anticipation of the season's festivities.
In my little family this is the busiest time of the year; it starts with Will's birthday on Saturday, then Christmas, then our wedding anniversary (which will be our second this year) and wrapped up with New Years Eve. This year, however, we will be adding: work promotion and housewarming to the party list.
I feel like the knowledge I've gained about the Law of Attraction this year should be celebrated too. It is absolutely the most valuable gift I could ever have received and has, without question, changed my life. I remember how bleak my life seemed last Christmas; as I questioned my move, my life, future, career and well everything. I never imagined how simple it would be to change my life through just thinking positive and trusting blindly. I now sit smiling as I realise such a weight is lifted off my shoulders with God's words from the bible ringing in my ears: "Ask, believe and you shall receive." My life has become proof of this very thing and I am grateful for everyone I meet, every experience I have and all of my amazing friends and family. Merry Christmas xo
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
This is it
There are certain milestones we pass that mark our progression into the following stage of our life; whatever that stage may be. Today, during a phone conversation with my bank manager, it occurred to me that this is it! My milestone moment from adolescence into adulthood. We were talking of finalising our buyer's contract for the apartment in Midtown that Will and I have found - at long last - and all of the fees, paperwork and legal issues associated; all very grown up stuff, (that was only very slightly over my head).
But owning a home for the very first time is a grown up thing to do. I've officially welcomed adulthood and with it, words like "mortgage," "tax reimbursement," "resale," "lease option" and "ombudsman" into my life, which does make me a little sad for the irresponsible adolescent within whom I've had to (also officially) farewell.
It is ironic that this farewell coincides with my rediscovery of rock & roll; for try as I might - I have begrudgingly realised that I am far from the angry, emotional mess I was, not five years ago, when I could stand to listen to it for more than an hour a day! I have grown and I am happy with the trade-off to have become Lena: wife, writer, poet; calm, collected, dexterous; woman, homeowner; but, the latter has me feeling like a wild bird that has been caged for the first time, flapping my wings frantically and lamenting lost freedom.
It's different for Will, who's owned an entire house before - not just an apartment in the city - but an ancient house that he lovingly renovated; a house associated with another first in his life that he did not share with me. In many ways, my husband hit adulthood long before he'd even met me; and has patiently waited for this free-spirited, carefree yet unsure girl within me to catch up with him. Since it's been nothing at all to date for me to simply 'up and leave' or restart my life at beckoned call - somehow owning a home is very grounding. It's an experience that's making me feel tied down, which is a new sensation within me; one that I'm having mixed emotions about. On one hand: it's about time to have a 'home'. On the other, I fret for our unrealised plans; like living in Europe or exploring the world. Things that seem easier without an accumulation of possessions or a 'mortgage'. Marrying Will was not scary at all compared to this. He was the best man I'd ever met and perfect in every way. No doubts. Period. Yet this milestone, somehow underlines words like housewife, mother, cook - all insecurities within me for the new role I'm taking on.
I know it sounds so silly! Since living together for two and a half years, our arrangements and dynamics are long established; yet, the unsettled nature of our immediate plans, together with renting and having undefined long term goals, somehow relieved the pressure. I'd say things like: 'when we get a home, I want to paint the walls this way' and 'we can do this' or 'we should buy that', even 'I'll start cooking Russian food:' implying that I didn't have to worry about any of it until such time as we get a home. Now I wonder - has the time come? Is this the future we didn't plan for? Are we ready to really settle down? Become grounded? Have kids? Bid adieu to our free spirit and spontaneity? And actually (I wonder the most), will I fail at everything?
I wonder if this crossroad between logic and emotion is the typical experience when one transitions into adulthood... Will's told me that he was terrified when he bought his first house too, so maybe I'm not alone in my constant mood shifts from excitement to panic - which I'm hoping will abate soon!
But owning a home for the very first time is a grown up thing to do. I've officially welcomed adulthood and with it, words like "mortgage," "tax reimbursement," "resale," "lease option" and "ombudsman" into my life, which does make me a little sad for the irresponsible adolescent within whom I've had to (also officially) farewell.
It is ironic that this farewell coincides with my rediscovery of rock & roll; for try as I might - I have begrudgingly realised that I am far from the angry, emotional mess I was, not five years ago, when I could stand to listen to it for more than an hour a day! I have grown and I am happy with the trade-off to have become Lena: wife, writer, poet; calm, collected, dexterous; woman, homeowner; but, the latter has me feeling like a wild bird that has been caged for the first time, flapping my wings frantically and lamenting lost freedom.
It's different for Will, who's owned an entire house before - not just an apartment in the city - but an ancient house that he lovingly renovated; a house associated with another first in his life that he did not share with me. In many ways, my husband hit adulthood long before he'd even met me; and has patiently waited for this free-spirited, carefree yet unsure girl within me to catch up with him. Since it's been nothing at all to date for me to simply 'up and leave' or restart my life at beckoned call - somehow owning a home is very grounding. It's an experience that's making me feel tied down, which is a new sensation within me; one that I'm having mixed emotions about. On one hand: it's about time to have a 'home'. On the other, I fret for our unrealised plans; like living in Europe or exploring the world. Things that seem easier without an accumulation of possessions or a 'mortgage'. Marrying Will was not scary at all compared to this. He was the best man I'd ever met and perfect in every way. No doubts. Period. Yet this milestone, somehow underlines words like housewife, mother, cook - all insecurities within me for the new role I'm taking on.
I know it sounds so silly! Since living together for two and a half years, our arrangements and dynamics are long established; yet, the unsettled nature of our immediate plans, together with renting and having undefined long term goals, somehow relieved the pressure. I'd say things like: 'when we get a home, I want to paint the walls this way' and 'we can do this' or 'we should buy that', even 'I'll start cooking Russian food:' implying that I didn't have to worry about any of it until such time as we get a home. Now I wonder - has the time come? Is this the future we didn't plan for? Are we ready to really settle down? Become grounded? Have kids? Bid adieu to our free spirit and spontaneity? And actually (I wonder the most), will I fail at everything?
I wonder if this crossroad between logic and emotion is the typical experience when one transitions into adulthood... Will's told me that he was terrified when he bought his first house too, so maybe I'm not alone in my constant mood shifts from excitement to panic - which I'm hoping will abate soon!
Regardless of my moods, I know my prologue is wrapping up. Upon our contract close, chapter 1 of my adult mini-series begins - and with my new job that actually pays at regular intervals: I'm in good shape to play the part. Will says that nothing has to change, but either way: we've taken the plunge now so this is it! No going back.
Friday, November 11, 2011
Baby, it's cold outside
Daylight savings has ended making the days very short. It's dark by 6pm and although the first official day of winter is December 22nd, it feels like the season has well and truly arrived. The blistering chills have blown in with the wind and are settling in rather early this year; which might mean another white Christmas, YAY.
In the true American spirit, that burns with a desire to decorate everything in sight: Christmas is now visible all around. Store windows adorn decorations or beautiful displays of cashmere scarves, mittens or beanies; street lamps wrapped in pine branches and red ribbon, while fairy lights are strewn through tree branches and rooftops. People on the streets walk faster, heaters are turned on in buildings, coat and hat racks are once again noticeable features within places we visit that didn't seem to have them before; and everyone in Midtown is wrapped up from head to toe, even the pets.
The cold is an interesting occurrence to describe to someone who's never experienced it before. No body warned me, because my American family had all grown up in this climate and were accustomed to it; but I'll never forget my fear and surprise the first time my hands became swollen and numb! Of course I thought it might mean frostbite or the end of me, and at once made it my objective to get my hands warm as quickly as possible! As my hands begun to unthaw, it hurt so deep in my bones! I couldn't move them freely and became even more frightened, like I'd left it too long and was doomed! LOL. On top of the pain, it felt a lot like I was wearing latex gloves full of water over my hands - due to the swelling and squishy texture!
Then there was the first time the cold made my nose hurt far up inside of my brain; which of course I assumed meant something horrible too. But I grew to love the cold last year, which was my first white Christmas. I loved the feeling of the brisk wind against my cheeks while outside and the romantic feeling in the air when everything is sparkling white from the snow and gas lanterns. Inside, there's nothing better than snuggles by the fire next to a live Christmas tree that makes the entire house smell like pine.
In the true American spirit, that burns with a desire to decorate everything in sight: Christmas is now visible all around. Store windows adorn decorations or beautiful displays of cashmere scarves, mittens or beanies; street lamps wrapped in pine branches and red ribbon, while fairy lights are strewn through tree branches and rooftops. People on the streets walk faster, heaters are turned on in buildings, coat and hat racks are once again noticeable features within places we visit that didn't seem to have them before; and everyone in Midtown is wrapped up from head to toe, even the pets.
The cold is an interesting occurrence to describe to someone who's never experienced it before. No body warned me, because my American family had all grown up in this climate and were accustomed to it; but I'll never forget my fear and surprise the first time my hands became swollen and numb! Of course I thought it might mean frostbite or the end of me, and at once made it my objective to get my hands warm as quickly as possible! As my hands begun to unthaw, it hurt so deep in my bones! I couldn't move them freely and became even more frightened, like I'd left it too long and was doomed! LOL. On top of the pain, it felt a lot like I was wearing latex gloves full of water over my hands - due to the swelling and squishy texture!
Then there was the first time the cold made my nose hurt far up inside of my brain; which of course I assumed meant something horrible too. But I grew to love the cold last year, which was my first white Christmas. I loved the feeling of the brisk wind against my cheeks while outside and the romantic feeling in the air when everything is sparkling white from the snow and gas lanterns. Inside, there's nothing better than snuggles by the fire next to a live Christmas tree that makes the entire house smell like pine.
to feel the rhythm of life...
Staind's once played-non-stop classic hit "it's been a while" came on the radio today. I realised that I either hadn't heard or had intentionally avoided it for five years straight and I was blown away by the miraculous effect it had on me! As if by a time machine, I felt physically lifted from where I was standing - without even closing my eyes - to my first ever trip to Rockhampton in 2005 with Dan; when he drove me out to meet his dad on the farm that he was living on at the time.
As I began to remember everything and feel exactly what I had back then, it dawned on me somewhere in my subconscious mind: that the emotions attached to hearing an old song have the power to invoke every sense. I could hear the ridiculously loud motor noise of his 180SX and his voice lightly signing along with an implication towards me in the tone; and I could smell Dan's "LYNX" cologne mingled with the ever present smell of cigarettes. Every detail of the trip replayed in my head like a photo-reel: the arrival, the farm animals, shooting a gun for my first time, Hungry Jacks for dinner and that glorious night sky... to this day the most amazing I have seen: a completely unobstructed and vivid view of the entire milky way with a slight greenish tint surrounding it, with stars as bright and far as the eye could see!
It was quite shocking how easily things that I hadn't thought about in years poured over me when I heard this song; like a massive and heavy wave that was preventing me from breathing and almost suffocating me; until the song was over and I was suddenly back in my kitchen with Baxter at my feet, looking curiously up at me while the radio announcer yapped on about the upcoming and one night only Staind concert in a few weeks time down the street. This hypnosis-like phenomenon sparked a revelation within me that I was determined to prove again as I ripped out my old Staind, Pearl Jam, Tool and Drowning Pool albums and listened to them one by one.
Although not as powerful as that initial shocking encounter with Aaron Lewis' voice in the kitchen - the hypnosis affect was definitely (albeit vaguely) present throughout each song! I somehow remembered every lyric, every pause and even every instrumental feature. It felt awesome! Like catching up with the best friends that I've ever had, who I haven't heard from in years, but bumped into to find that we're still as close as ever! I feel like Staind grew with me at the same time I did. From the first albums "Tormented" and "Dysfunction" that were as heavy, hateful and angry as I was at the time, to "The illusion of progress" in 2008 which was self-accepting, forgiving and in love. I often felt the lyrics were written specifically for and about me. "Believe" reduced me to tears tonight just like it did the first time I'd ever heard it. I remember desperately needing a confidence boost at that point in my life when I felt truly alone and broken, and BEHOLD: there it was in the lyrical genius of one of my musical idols.
Despite their lyrical relevance, my best friends (fav bands) during high school were so heavy that I hid them from my parents and sometimes even my brother. I remember begging dad for a discman to be able to listen to my beloved death metal free of criticism from my family or my mother's fear for the damnation of my soul. I had to hide album covers, especially Tool and A Perfect Circle who adorned witch craft symbols and Slipknot and Korn, whose covers were just weird. And in the off chance I was caught, I fiercely defended my best friends by justifying their lyrics or life experiences that had made them so angry! I'll never forget justifying Slipknot's self titled album cover that mum found in my room: (it seems so funny now, yet I was actually afraid she'd take it away from me for good!... I told her:) "they aren't insane or devil worshipers! They're famous and protecting their identities! Their music is very profound, people = shit is a great message!" LOL
Although me and my musical taste have both mellowed out over the past 1/2 decade, I have really enjoyed getting reacquainted with my best friends, who I abandoned, but who utterly got me through high school; by comforting me, always being by my side and reminding me that I'm not alone in my loneliness, fears, pain and hardship. Now that I'm a "woman" who's happily married and comfortable with who I am, it's ironic to hear songs associated with past torment, insecurity and heartache. Everything was a tragedy back then - complete life and death scenario - yet the parents were right in saying it was always a learning curve.
Staind's "Tangled up in you" used to mean something entirely different to me and was in reference to the off again, on again experience with Dan that lasted 8 years of my life. I felt it a little jolt of it as I heard it for the first time tonight, yet as I lay soaking in the tub and really listening to the lyrics, I thought of Will and I: how we're in such a great place in our life together - fully trusting, completely happy. ...How he's off tonight in Illinois celebrating Veteran's day his mates and fellow Veterans, and how I'm happy that he's having fun, yet missing him dreadfully and wishing he was home. These thoughts lead to thoughts of another song called "God bless the broken road" by the Rascal Flats. It was our wedding song and it talks of broken relationships that lead to our finding each other. I really have gone soft.
As I began to remember everything and feel exactly what I had back then, it dawned on me somewhere in my subconscious mind: that the emotions attached to hearing an old song have the power to invoke every sense. I could hear the ridiculously loud motor noise of his 180SX and his voice lightly signing along with an implication towards me in the tone; and I could smell Dan's "LYNX" cologne mingled with the ever present smell of cigarettes. Every detail of the trip replayed in my head like a photo-reel: the arrival, the farm animals, shooting a gun for my first time, Hungry Jacks for dinner and that glorious night sky... to this day the most amazing I have seen: a completely unobstructed and vivid view of the entire milky way with a slight greenish tint surrounding it, with stars as bright and far as the eye could see!
It was quite shocking how easily things that I hadn't thought about in years poured over me when I heard this song; like a massive and heavy wave that was preventing me from breathing and almost suffocating me; until the song was over and I was suddenly back in my kitchen with Baxter at my feet, looking curiously up at me while the radio announcer yapped on about the upcoming and one night only Staind concert in a few weeks time down the street. This hypnosis-like phenomenon sparked a revelation within me that I was determined to prove again as I ripped out my old Staind, Pearl Jam, Tool and Drowning Pool albums and listened to them one by one.
Although not as powerful as that initial shocking encounter with Aaron Lewis' voice in the kitchen - the hypnosis affect was definitely (albeit vaguely) present throughout each song! I somehow remembered every lyric, every pause and even every instrumental feature. It felt awesome! Like catching up with the best friends that I've ever had, who I haven't heard from in years, but bumped into to find that we're still as close as ever! I feel like Staind grew with me at the same time I did. From the first albums "Tormented" and "Dysfunction" that were as heavy, hateful and angry as I was at the time, to "The illusion of progress" in 2008 which was self-accepting, forgiving and in love. I often felt the lyrics were written specifically for and about me. "Believe" reduced me to tears tonight just like it did the first time I'd ever heard it. I remember desperately needing a confidence boost at that point in my life when I felt truly alone and broken, and BEHOLD: there it was in the lyrical genius of one of my musical idols.
Despite their lyrical relevance, my best friends (fav bands) during high school were so heavy that I hid them from my parents and sometimes even my brother. I remember begging dad for a discman to be able to listen to my beloved death metal free of criticism from my family or my mother's fear for the damnation of my soul. I had to hide album covers, especially Tool and A Perfect Circle who adorned witch craft symbols and Slipknot and Korn, whose covers were just weird. And in the off chance I was caught, I fiercely defended my best friends by justifying their lyrics or life experiences that had made them so angry! I'll never forget justifying Slipknot's self titled album cover that mum found in my room: (it seems so funny now, yet I was actually afraid she'd take it away from me for good!... I told her:) "they aren't insane or devil worshipers! They're famous and protecting their identities! Their music is very profound, people = shit is a great message!" LOL
Although me and my musical taste have both mellowed out over the past 1/2 decade, I have really enjoyed getting reacquainted with my best friends, who I abandoned, but who utterly got me through high school; by comforting me, always being by my side and reminding me that I'm not alone in my loneliness, fears, pain and hardship. Now that I'm a "woman" who's happily married and comfortable with who I am, it's ironic to hear songs associated with past torment, insecurity and heartache. Everything was a tragedy back then - complete life and death scenario - yet the parents were right in saying it was always a learning curve.
Staind's "Tangled up in you" used to mean something entirely different to me and was in reference to the off again, on again experience with Dan that lasted 8 years of my life. I felt it a little jolt of it as I heard it for the first time tonight, yet as I lay soaking in the tub and really listening to the lyrics, I thought of Will and I: how we're in such a great place in our life together - fully trusting, completely happy. ...How he's off tonight in Illinois celebrating Veteran's day his mates and fellow Veterans, and how I'm happy that he's having fun, yet missing him dreadfully and wishing he was home. These thoughts lead to thoughts of another song called "God bless the broken road" by the Rascal Flats. It was our wedding song and it talks of broken relationships that lead to our finding each other. I really have gone soft.
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Failing
There really is something to be said for just feeling healthy! I am so aware right now of how blessed I am and how grateful I should be for simply feeling good or functional most of the time! Today I am sore literally all over - not like how people say that when they're exaggerating or complaining, but really! - my hands hurt, my head is splitting, my stomach, back, legs and feet! If that's not all over then I don't know what is.
The reason I'm so sore is the same reason I've been such a recluse lately. My last post was almost two weeks ago and that was probably the last moment I had to just sit by myself and relax with a cuppa [that means cup of tea/ coffee to anyone who's not Aussie] while updating my blog.
Ever since the last week of October, I have not stopped or slowed down for one second! With so much going on, I need to make a list just to keep track of it all myself:
PS: Pumpkin status update: I've stayed true to my word and tried everything pumpkin I could get my hands around. Now I've stopped due to an expanding waistline and certain outfits no longer getting around me! Pumpkin bread has turned out to be my favourite and I find I prefer the savoury pumpkin stuff; since everything sweet has 'pumpkin spice' added to it which is kind of a nutmeg/ cinnamon fusion that I find over-bearing after a while.
PPS: The colours of autumn are well and truly surrounding the city and as soon as I get some time to myself, I will take to the streets - camera in hand - and take some pics of the multi coloured slendor
The reason I'm so sore is the same reason I've been such a recluse lately. My last post was almost two weeks ago and that was probably the last moment I had to just sit by myself and relax with a cuppa [that means cup of tea/ coffee to anyone who's not Aussie] while updating my blog.
Ever since the last week of October, I have not stopped or slowed down for one second! With so much going on, I need to make a list just to keep track of it all myself:
- As soon as we got home I had to start catching up on 3 weeks worth of dirty laundry - which was no mean feat by the way. Will kept finding his dirty clothes in random places, like his office or the car, and adding to the pile daily!
- While our landlord has graciously allowed us to stay on indefinitely; our lease is now on borrowed time and we have been frantically searching for apartments in Midtown to move to. That has meant perusing countless websites, meeting agents, trying to find the right one and visiting what feels like a hundred different properties in person. This week is ultra stressful with me working and Will being out of town again!
- This week was in fact the start of my new job in fashion retail (and everything that comes with that - shopping for new shoes, clothes, reading induction manuals 1,000 pages long!). The hours have suprisingly turned out to be insane! With an 'open shift' commencing at 8am, even though the store doesn't open until 10, and a 'close shift' ending at 11pm!! Even though the store closes at 9. It's physically tough to transition from a job where I sat all day writing, to one where I'm lifting heavy things and running or standing all day long. (Hence the current aches and pains).
- On top of this, I've been desperately clasping at any free time to wrap up lingering writing assignments
- And to touch base with colleagues, friends and family in both Australia and Atlanta, so as to not offend anyone - but I feel like I'm failing miserably and letting people down left, right and centre!
PS: Pumpkin status update: I've stayed true to my word and tried everything pumpkin I could get my hands around. Now I've stopped due to an expanding waistline and certain outfits no longer getting around me! Pumpkin bread has turned out to be my favourite and I find I prefer the savoury pumpkin stuff; since everything sweet has 'pumpkin spice' added to it which is kind of a nutmeg/ cinnamon fusion that I find over-bearing after a while.
PPS: The colours of autumn are well and truly surrounding the city and as soon as I get some time to myself, I will take to the streets - camera in hand - and take some pics of the multi coloured slendor
Monday, November 7, 2011
My dream apartment has come true!
On the 30th October 2010 Will, Baxter and I moved into the Mayfair Tower... and on the 7th of November, I wrote this post in my journal, which I wanted to share on my blog:
My head is spinning from happiness! Last week, Will and I left his mother's house in Peachtree City and moved into my dream apartment in Midtown Atlanta. The 2 bed/ 2 bathroom apartment (floor plan) is on the 23rd story of the Mayfair Tower high-rise and to me, it's the most beautiful building in Midtown. The views from our windows are amazing, with one side facing Piedmont Park and the other facing Buckhead. I can't believe how lucky we are and I just know living on 14th St is going to be awesome!
My head is spinning from happiness! Last week, Will and I left his mother's house in Peachtree City and moved into my dream apartment in Midtown Atlanta. The 2 bed/ 2 bathroom apartment (floor plan) is on the 23rd story of the Mayfair Tower high-rise and to me, it's the most beautiful building in Midtown. The views from our windows are amazing, with one side facing Piedmont Park and the other facing Buckhead. I can't believe how lucky we are and I just know living on 14th St is going to be awesome!
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| Entrance |
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| The Two Mayfair Towers |
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| View of Mayfair/ Midtown from across the pond @ Piedmont Park |
Friday, October 28, 2011
Pumpkin mania
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| Pumpkin soup photo credit: uniquefallwedding.com |
There’s an old and very well known saying (thanks to Ron Burgundy who just couldn’t get it right!): “when in Rome, do as the Romans do.” Well right now in the USA the thing to do is really anything to do with fall harvest or Halloween. America and its people are very seasonal and will take any excuse to decorate their houses, yards or to hang wreaths anywhere they can.
So naturally, pumpkins are all around and not just as decorations; they are being implemented into recipes, drinks, clothing and jewelery. That’s why I have set myself a mission to try every consumable pumpkin product I can.
As I write this, I sip on my very first pumpkin latte from Starbucks and I really like it. It’s similar to a cinnamon latte but I guess they use pumpkin spice sprinkle instead of cinnamon.
Pumpkin beer, pumpkin pie, pumpkin muffins, pumpkin bread, pumpkin mousse, pumpkin porridge, cookies, crepes, waffles and smoothies are among the things I plan to try.
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| Pumpkin cake photo credit: countryliving.com |
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| Pumpkin Mousse Parfaitphoto credit: childfreechic.com |
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| Pumpkin pie photo credit: favim.com |
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| Pumpkin beer photo credit: amymittelman.com |
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| Pumpkin coffee photo credit: lbsimpson.blogspot.com |
Thursday, October 27, 2011
The unromantic truth about travel
Another hectic week has all but passed me by. I returned home on Monday to fulfill a work commitment at Atlanta's MedTrade, (leaving Will and Baxter alone in Arkansas) and tomorrow I will spend the majority of my day in various airports, awaiting the connecting flights that will eventually take me back to Little Rock, Arkansas. This weekend will be the final breadth of our month long journey and honestly, it has not come soon enough!
I'm feeling utterly exhausted, listening to Michael Buble's Home and thinking that travel can become somewhat of a deception. It truly sounds enticing, glamorous even; but it's definitely not all champagne, limos, 5 star hotels, adventure and excitement. The reality is that simply driving, sitting in the passenger’s seat, or flying can be exhausting, and even if excitement is present - it's that very excitement that makes you weary by the end of the day. It's a strange phenomenon that the human brain can only take so much excitement before it turns into irrational irritation or utter exhaustion.
I know that I am blessed and I am eternally grateful for the sights I've seen, people and opportunities I've encountered and experiences I've had; but honestly, being out on the open road or jet setting is hard, frustrating business!
Some of the major things that make travelling so frustrating are:
Airport security. I have to mention them first because, let's face it, none of us can stand them. They are probably the kids that got pushed around in school, or the adults that get pushed around at home: and desperately need to assert their authority in some way. These airport security officers are often unreasonable, pushy and just plain mean. (Can you tell I'm not looking forward to our encounter tomorrow?)
Another frustration is modern technology that we have come to rely upon like oxygen, in order to get by! A faulty GPS that can get you lost, or a mobile phone with a dying battery that can lead to all sorts of grief!
Next on the frustration meter are the hotels; as annoying as it is when you can't even a 3 star hotel, what's worse are those hotels claiming to be star rated, but look as if they are ran by the caravan-park association of No Standardsville. There's nothing worse than stained towels or dirty bed sheets! Those horrible goose bumps that rise and the immediate discomfort that spreads from the pit of your stomach to the roots of your hair! I would (and have) sooner sleep in my car than a dirty hotel!
The final thing I find extremely frustrating about travelling, are the unhelpful people in service jobs! Universal dictionaries define service as the act of helping or working for somebody - yet, more often than not, there is an attitude from these people who are (willingly) employed in the industry! This attitude pushes me to breaking point when I am either hungry, lost, feeling unwell, simply exhausted (or all of the above!) and just need some help from a decent human being that understands.
I've had moments where I've literally wanted to stomp my feet and cry because of the sheer number of events that have consecutively gone wrong! Sure, you might think the rewards of travel are greater than the off chance of incurring a problem or two; but really, that is being naiive. When you have been en-route from place and sight to place and sight for two or more weeks: your weariness, sleep deprivation and intolerance all set in, until you no longer care for the mountains, wildlife, cuisine or any form of sightseeing. That's usually when I find myself envisioning my own bed, or a home cooked meal, until a beckoning melody of home begins play louder and louder in my head with every gas station I stop at, or every airport I am cursed with.
I'm feeling utterly exhausted, listening to Michael Buble's Home and thinking that travel can become somewhat of a deception. It truly sounds enticing, glamorous even; but it's definitely not all champagne, limos, 5 star hotels, adventure and excitement. The reality is that simply driving, sitting in the passenger’s seat, or flying can be exhausting, and even if excitement is present - it's that very excitement that makes you weary by the end of the day. It's a strange phenomenon that the human brain can only take so much excitement before it turns into irrational irritation or utter exhaustion.
I know that I am blessed and I am eternally grateful for the sights I've seen, people and opportunities I've encountered and experiences I've had; but honestly, being out on the open road or jet setting is hard, frustrating business!
Some of the major things that make travelling so frustrating are:
Airport security. I have to mention them first because, let's face it, none of us can stand them. They are probably the kids that got pushed around in school, or the adults that get pushed around at home: and desperately need to assert their authority in some way. These airport security officers are often unreasonable, pushy and just plain mean. (Can you tell I'm not looking forward to our encounter tomorrow?)
Another frustration is modern technology that we have come to rely upon like oxygen, in order to get by! A faulty GPS that can get you lost, or a mobile phone with a dying battery that can lead to all sorts of grief!
Next on the frustration meter are the hotels; as annoying as it is when you can't even a 3 star hotel, what's worse are those hotels claiming to be star rated, but look as if they are ran by the caravan-park association of No Standardsville. There's nothing worse than stained towels or dirty bed sheets! Those horrible goose bumps that rise and the immediate discomfort that spreads from the pit of your stomach to the roots of your hair! I would (and have) sooner sleep in my car than a dirty hotel!
The final thing I find extremely frustrating about travelling, are the unhelpful people in service jobs! Universal dictionaries define service as the act of helping or working for somebody - yet, more often than not, there is an attitude from these people who are (willingly) employed in the industry! This attitude pushes me to breaking point when I am either hungry, lost, feeling unwell, simply exhausted (or all of the above!) and just need some help from a decent human being that understands.
I've had moments where I've literally wanted to stomp my feet and cry because of the sheer number of events that have consecutively gone wrong! Sure, you might think the rewards of travel are greater than the off chance of incurring a problem or two; but really, that is being naiive. When you have been en-route from place and sight to place and sight for two or more weeks: your weariness, sleep deprivation and intolerance all set in, until you no longer care for the mountains, wildlife, cuisine or any form of sightseeing. That's usually when I find myself envisioning my own bed, or a home cooked meal, until a beckoning melody of home begins play louder and louder in my head with every gas station I stop at, or every airport I am cursed with.
It's interesting (and Michael Buble' will concur): no matter your age, everyone sets out on a trip all fresh faced and wide eyed - but soon yearn for home like nothing they've ever craved before.
Friday, October 21, 2011
Culture in the city
For some reason, ever since I visited the Frontier in Abilene, I've felt a little homesick. Maybe its the history and pride of Texas that has made me feel proud to be Australian and it has once again hit me that I've been away from home for an entire YEAR!
Since I'm married to the world's best person, he took it upon himself to find me an Australian dinner; but when he couldn't, he reverted to the next best thing... Dallas has a very large Russian population, so tonight Will has given me a very "homey" one here in Texas. We visited a deli that has the largest variety of international food anywhere in the city. The Eastern European section here is bursting with my Russian favorites including homemade meals that taste every bit as good as mama’s!
After stocking up with traditional pastries, salads, juices and candies, I passed away the evening watching vintage Russian cartoons and sipping kvac. Ironically, these traditional Russian things remind me of Brisbane Aus and our old backyard gazebo, palm trees and pool! So in a way, it sort of is Australian food.
It seems strange that here in the heart of west Texas, home of America’s cowboy, I’m enjoying a Russian banquet! And it’s funny to think that my heritage, multi-linguistics and cultural diversity are today some my most prized assets, yet these things about me gave me such a complex growing up. I now often tell Will that I plan to raise our children the same way my parents raised me: by forcing them to attend Russian school, or ignoring them until they speak to me in Russian! Got to be cruel to be kind and I see that now - so thanks mum and dad! xo
Since I'm married to the world's best person, he took it upon himself to find me an Australian dinner; but when he couldn't, he reverted to the next best thing... Dallas has a very large Russian population, so tonight Will has given me a very "homey" one here in Texas. We visited a deli that has the largest variety of international food anywhere in the city. The Eastern European section here is bursting with my Russian favorites including homemade meals that taste every bit as good as mama’s!
After stocking up with traditional pastries, salads, juices and candies, I passed away the evening watching vintage Russian cartoons and sipping kvac. Ironically, these traditional Russian things remind me of Brisbane Aus and our old backyard gazebo, palm trees and pool! So in a way, it sort of is Australian food.
It seems strange that here in the heart of west Texas, home of America’s cowboy, I’m enjoying a Russian banquet! And it’s funny to think that my heritage, multi-linguistics and cultural diversity are today some my most prized assets, yet these things about me gave me such a complex growing up. I now often tell Will that I plan to raise our children the same way my parents raised me: by forcing them to attend Russian school, or ignoring them until they speak to me in Russian! Got to be cruel to be kind and I see that now - so thanks mum and dad! xo
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Road trip, day 10: Dallas, Texas
The city of Dallas is smaller than I expected it would be. Especially seeing as it's sort of the shopping/ culture capital of North Western Texas and the place that folks from surrounding localities drive to for their major shopping needs.
On this trip I am staying in and just relaxing; spending some much needed time with Baxter while he gets some exercise, plus recharging my batteries for this upcoming weekend of fun (in Arkansas). I'm OK with missing out on a few days of tourism since last time I visited Dallas, I explored the city and visited one of its most famous landmarks: the 6th Floor Museum - which is the actual preserved building and room from whence President JFK was infamously assassinated in the street inside of his escort vehicle. It's eerie to look out of that window on the 6th floor, down to the street where a white X still marks the exact spot that the President happened to be, when he met his fate. Today, there is a monument to him down on that street, as well as a cafe/ gift shop that sells all sorts of memorabilia in his honor.
Another destination from my last trip was the Dallas Museum of Nature and Science; which is aimed toward children; but I did enjoy its IMAX theatre, where I watched a documentary on ancient Egypt, and its "Hall of Texas Mammals" - which perplexingly contained birds and reptiles as well?! (Just a suggestion, but maybe they should rename it: Hall of Texas' Native Animals.) Photos coming soon!
Although it was incredible to be up-close and personal with real animals, to see just how HUGE some of them really are and to be able to touch some of their fur - it did make me a little sad that they were all killed and stuffed just for this reason.
On this trip I am staying in and just relaxing; spending some much needed time with Baxter while he gets some exercise, plus recharging my batteries for this upcoming weekend of fun (in Arkansas). I'm OK with missing out on a few days of tourism since last time I visited Dallas, I explored the city and visited one of its most famous landmarks: the 6th Floor Museum - which is the actual preserved building and room from whence President JFK was infamously assassinated in the street inside of his escort vehicle. It's eerie to look out of that window on the 6th floor, down to the street where a white X still marks the exact spot that the President happened to be, when he met his fate. Today, there is a monument to him down on that street, as well as a cafe/ gift shop that sells all sorts of memorabilia in his honor.
Another destination from my last trip was the Dallas Museum of Nature and Science; which is aimed toward children; but I did enjoy its IMAX theatre, where I watched a documentary on ancient Egypt, and its "Hall of Texas Mammals" - which perplexingly contained birds and reptiles as well?! (Just a suggestion, but maybe they should rename it: Hall of Texas' Native Animals.) Photos coming soon!
Although it was incredible to be up-close and personal with real animals, to see just how HUGE some of them really are and to be able to touch some of their fur - it did make me a little sad that they were all killed and stuffed just for this reason.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Road trip, day 9: Abilene Texas
Will and I left Synder on Monday, almost as soon as I'd finished my blog entry about it, and drove to Abilene where we spent the night. We set off again (for Dallas) shortly after breakfast on Tuesday morning; but not before I'd convinced Will to stop at Frontier Texas: an incredibly high-tech exhibit depicting the early history of Texas.
I learnt a lot of valuable information, but more importantly I left truly wowed by this one-of-a-kind virtual tour; where surround-sound and motion-activated plasma screen tour guides followed me from room to room and told me "their stories" from the past. It was neat to be able to touch genuine Indian artifacts, buffalo furs and skins, ancient leather and other relics; and so easy to retain information through this new form of exhibition.
Every side is represented; from Texas's native Indian colonies and early European settlement to the devastating conflicts and consequences this merged lifestyle caused both sides to incur. Another group to suffer almost to the brink of extinction was the buffalo; upon whom the Indians almost solely relied upon for their longevity. Once the buffalo were eradicated - it wasn't long before the Indian way of life tragically followed suit.
I learnt a lot of valuable information, but more importantly I left truly wowed by this one-of-a-kind virtual tour; where surround-sound and motion-activated plasma screen tour guides followed me from room to room and told me "their stories" from the past. It was neat to be able to touch genuine Indian artifacts, buffalo furs and skins, ancient leather and other relics; and so easy to retain information through this new form of exhibition.
Every side is represented; from Texas's native Indian colonies and early European settlement to the devastating conflicts and consequences this merged lifestyle caused both sides to incur. Another group to suffer almost to the brink of extinction was the buffalo; upon whom the Indians almost solely relied upon for their longevity. Once the buffalo were eradicated - it wasn't long before the Indian way of life tragically followed suit.
I recommend this Frontier experience in Abilene to anyone wishing to visit Texas. It's a key step in understanding the state's pride and culture - which is often perceived as boastful by the other states.
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| The "tour guide" (projection) beckons to be followed upon arrival |
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| An Indian chief tells of his people and customs |
Monday, October 17, 2011
Road trip, day 7: Snyder, Texas
After we left Fort Worth yesterday we drove to Snyder which is not much more than a mining town – without the mine! On our way here we were surrounded by thousands upon thousands of wind turbines – the government’s answer to environmentally friendly power generation.
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| Photo credit: wind-power-turbines.info |
Although quite a sight to behold, these turbines seem to do little for the economy of the towns they surround. Being self sufficient, they don’t generate any new employment and being so large, they take up A LOT of space; meaning the opportunity of utilizing the land in other ways (such as farming or town development) vanishes. They also affect wildlife since so much space is cleared away to make room for them and all of this in turn impacts tourism. I guess they are a cleaner option, but I wonder if the steel turbines really are a greener option - when so many thousands are needed to produce the same energy as one power plant?... Moving on!
I'm having a quiet day today, just working and catching up on some much needed laundry and rest at the hotel. It's nice to have a down day and unscramble myself and my to-do list!
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