Reflections and Resolutions

As this year comes to an end, I am using my little platform to post some of my thoughts... 

What I'm Proud of... 

1. While this year has had it's ups and downs, I think overall my eternal optimism have been a very useful attitude tool to have.  I have attempted and found the silver lining in every situation. 

2. I think I've been a better friend this year, not only have I stayed in touch with my existing friends but also reconnected with some lost ones, but I've managed overcome my own difficulties and meet with some new ones.  

3. I'm amazed that I'm still posting to this blog as a project just for me.  And I've accomplished what I originally set out to do... not just stay indoors. 

4. Finally, I've found a way to channel my need to control and my desire to be the best into an activity that allows me to "be all that I can be" while also learning to let go and that imperfections can make things "more perfect".

5. Taking that chance at this point and almost starting over from scratch... 

6. I've found that passion for life in general, that went missing awhile ago.  Instead of being on the outside looking in through a hazy window, I am on the inside again.  

What I celebrate:

1. My network of friends, family and colleagues has grown, not arbitrarily, but rather with careful thought and consideration. 

2. My chosen family--the people who care about me... not just a blood qualification. 

3. The new 2009 administration. 

4. The lack of trudging through snow and wind, but still enjoying the cold. 

What I think needs work:

1. Lots more... but one step at a time. 

Happy New Year! 

Like a Natural History Museum Only Mostly Alive

Sidestepped the massive lines and visited the California Academy of Sciences. It's amazing.  I never went to the original one, but this new and improved museum is eco-friendly, people friendly and really impressive architecturally.  This addition makes the Golden Gate Park an even more resounding fave of mine in SF.  I visited the roof, the aquarium portion, the rainforest but didn't get the chance to go to the planetarium, which I have to on my return trip.  But the most fun I had was checking out the albino alligator.  

It's Weird That There Aren't Any Bananas

I finally gave in and made Monkey Munch, a la Jon & Kate Plus 8 the other day.  It's a yummy, crunchy, sweet snack, that involves waaayyyy too much sugar.  Ingredients include: Chex cereal, chocolate, peanut butter, vanilla and powdered sugar.  It's a sugar rush waiting to explode and crash. :) And the best part is, since I don't really enjoy chocolate anymore, there wasn't any concern on my part when it came to calories.  It's quick and easy, and I will make it again... just a little less of everything. That was my one contribution to the holiday season.  Bah Humbag.  

Winnie

It Was Written in the Stars...

I completely accept that I have a Gemini's personality--from one extreme to another--at least life is never dull. And I'll admit from time to time I like to read my monthly horoscope, but just for fun... therefore I usually read the previous month's and not the current, just so I don't let what I read affect how I respond to opportunities and obstacles.  

But THIS hits a bit close to home... from Susan Miller's Astrology Zone:

You seem very focused on a partner and it seems as though you'll draw up plans in one respect or another.  As December begins, this partner will have the upper hand.  [No kidding.] Something seems to be brewing between you that appears to be distressing you, and at first, it will only be something you'll feel very subtly and not be able to put your finger on precisely. [Nice to know I can trust my instincts.]

As you get closer to the full moon in Gemini, December 12, however, you will know what it is, and it will make you quite tense.  News will begin to show up as early as Wednesday, December 10, when Uranus and the Sun will be at sharp odds.  [Bang on.] At that time alarm bells will sound in your head, but as the week moves on, things may unravel.  [That's putting it lightly.] With a barrage of planets clashing, from Saturn and Pluto challenging the Sun, tension will be very high.  Not only will relationships be difficult, but a development involving your career may pose a challenge, too. [Seriously, maybe I should play the stock mkt based on my horoscope--I could be a millionaire...] 

You won't fully recover from the unexpected developments of this full moon until Tuesday, December 16. [That sounds about right.]  1It appears you will have to do something to fix what you learn, for Saturn and Mars will be at odds Monday, December 15.  [Staying close to home on Monday then, I've learned my lesson.] 

If your birthday is June 11, or is within five days of this date, keep your calendar flexible near this full moon, for something is bound to come up regarding a partner, or even a competitor or detractor, that you'll need to attend to quickly. [Or... you'll be too late.] At least you will know where you stand, and from this point on you will be able to plan accordingly. [That much is true, and yup, plans have already been activated.] 

Despite what happens at the full moon, your finances will be protected, and actually, you should be quite thrilled with developments. [We'll see.  Time will tell.] Work you did earlier this year will now pay off.  [Does she mean early 2008? Or earlier this month?] Or, you may get a check from an insurance company for a claim.  There are many ways you may benefit, from a large commission check, licensing fee, divorce settlement, prize winning, inheritance that is finally released or other reason you would see a one-time check. [Check..that is correct on the OR OTHER REASON part.] 

I am really trying to have a sense of humor about the whole thing.  We'll see how long that lasts.  

Gastronomic Dissapointment

And the award goes to A16. I've been trying to go to this place since I moved. Anytime I've mentioned the area I live in to any respectable foodie, the question has been, "Have you been to A16?" After two canceled reservations, Brian, Cat, Annie and I had finally made plans pre-Thanksgiving to go in early December.

As fate would have it, on the night of, Annie wasn't able to go, and I was starting to get sick. Perhaps it's a good thing Annie couldn't go since she seemed the most excited out of all of us to go--and so she may have been the most disappointed of all.

The restaurant is beautiful and the wood burning stove in the open kitchen was very encouraging. The place was packed and even though we had reservations, we still had to wait. All very good signs. The menu was extensive and well thought out. I was excited to try a lot of things and had decided to order a beet and potato salad, and split a spaghetti and mushroom pizza with Cat. I was a bit wary of the spaghetti dish since it had mint in it, but as it turned out, it was the only edible thing on the plate.

As I had discovered back in April 2008, I really like beets. And ever since then, I've been on the prowl and order them every chance I get... I even had an episode of Good Eats saved on my DVR all about beets. So for me to say that the beets were so salty and the potatoes so over-cooked and grainy that I couldn't finish the dish, should tell you something. I left so much on the plate that they didn't even take it away when the spaghetti arrived because they thought I was still working on the plate.

When the pizza arrived I was ready to dig in, the smell of the mushrooms was the first thing my stuffed up nose smelled all day and it smelled great. I took a big bite and grimaced... it was as if, someone had poured salt onto every part of the pizza, the sauce, the cheese, the mushrooms, even the dough. Then I thought, it must be because my tastebuds are out of whack, but Cat confirmed my worst fears. Between the two of us, who could have easily demolished the whole pizza, we didn't even finish half.

After waiting for so long, braving the cold and the long lines, I was very hungry and unfulfilled customer. But the place was still packed when we left, so there is a good chance that this was hopefully a random case or that SF'ers aren't really as health conscious just salt deprived. :)

M.I.A.

So I've been missing in action since Turkey Day. I'd like to say that it's 'cause I was too stuffed to move since them, but really it's been a slew of things. The holidays were great. I met a lot of new and old family. I think I kinda OD'ed on family--which is one of the reasons I moved back, but still being that kid who stands in a corner and hopes to disappear into the wallpaper, I was overwhelmed. Now that I've had time to digest, I really like some of the new cousins that I've been introduced too. It's been nice to have a chance to make a new impression. And I've really got to get over this terminal shyness thing--it's always funny to me when someone says that I'm a force of nature or larger than life. I think it's really just the relief of not being the kid in the corner that makes me want to hug everyone and make other "new" people feel welcome.

This year I finally broke the mold. This is the first year in the past 6 years that I didn't go to Loehmann's on Black Friday. Since I've been in SF, the need to dress to impress or at least look like I care has really faded. And the discount structure change and the joy of finding that name brand has kind of faded. OR maybe it's because I don't fit into anything, so I am loathe to go clothes shopping. Just when I finally got the whole NYC vibe down, now I have to relearn California causal aka perfect layering. My skills make me look like a homeless person at this point and the attempts to look "casual" but perfectly put together is so exhausting, I'd rather not shop.

OR, it could be that the tech industry is really rubbing off on me, because I found myself with my family at Target at 6:30am braving the long lines to get a flat screen TV, a new electric toothbrush and a bunch of new video games instead. My best buy of the day? A $10 vaccum that actually works and can be broken into a hand held dustbuster. SCORE!

On Saturday, we went to the DeYoung again. This time to see the YSL retrospective. 40 years of work whittled down to a few decadent rooms, on display. I will say this, after going to the exhibit, it permanently cements YSL as the next purse target on my list. So, ok. You can take the girl out of NYC, but you can't take the NYC outta the girl. :) My favorite? It's actually in the learning center of the exhibit, a tuxedo done in tribute to Oscar Wilde who was one of his favorite authors. It's just perfection.

A Weekend of Driving

Saturday was a BBQ with the AHS crowd in San Ramon. For our monthly get-together, we met at Billy's house for some perfect weather grilling. Not to mention watch some college football. The interesting thing was that the Northwestern peeps outnumbered the Cal folks. Chi-town represented.

So it took me three tries to get to the freeway entrance to get to the East Bay, but after that it was smooth sailing. And there was an element of peace of mind since my car was in working order. But I still needed to stop by the dealership to get my key fixed. After getting the car engine replaced... the key sort of stopped working, that is, I could no longer lock my car door. Thankfully, it was just a battery replacement fix. So with a $5 fix I was headed back to Billy's.

Sunday was an early morning. I had to go to the nearest Target, since something the cashier had failed to remove the security tag to something I had bought the day before. I also picked up some more Guitar Hero and Wii Music. I put back Rock Band, 'cause I haven't yet decided to buy it for the Wii or PS3 that I want to get. I drove to Daly City via freeway and then took the advice of my GPS and drove home locally from 99 Ranch. I am never driving locally again... it took forever. By this point I figured I should take advantage so i drove to SOMA to pick up Anne for a day of yarn shopping at Imaginknits. Um, I must have had some great parking karma stored up today, because I didn't have to walk far at any of the places I went to this morning.

We spent a good deal of time there, I got enough yarn to cloth 40 sheep. I think anytime you see me in the near future, I'll be knitting. I even found some yarn that looked like tourmaline, but couldn't figure out what to knit, so I put it back. Hopefully I'll be able to finish all my projects.
Anne and I headed to Tartine, but it was too crowded so we headed over to Craig's Place which was a nice place, nothing to write home about however. Then I picked up some ice cream (long line this time) at Bi-Rite and brought home some Salty Caramel for my next parental visit.

P.S.: Bond is set to break all sorts of records this weekend... I am so happy. It is NOT a Bourne ripoff.

P.P.S.: My Mac is on its way!

This is Why I'd Stay for the Credits

As a big movie fan, I often sit through the credits to see the "extra" bit at the end or the bloopers that sometimes run during credits. But once in a long while, it's just worth it to see a friend's name scroll by and cheer for their hard work.

London (Part II) Something Old, Something New

We got the opportunity to experience the best and the less best of London weather.

Old: Sunday and the British Museum
On Sunday, we did the "Old." We took the tube and eventually arrived at the British Museum. It is a museum of human history and culture in London. Its collections, which number more than 7 million objects are apparently amongst the largest and most comprehensive in the world and originate from all continents.

It's been 20 years since my mom's last trip and she really wanted to see the Eygptian exhibits before her trip. I, on the otherhand, headed straight to the Greek exhibits to make up for all the things I DIDN'T get to see in Athens. While it was great to see all these amazing collections all in one place, there was a bit of, wow, what about all the countries this stuff came from? Didn't they get to keep any of it.

It took me a good four hours and a lovely lunch with dessert in the museum cafe to finish the whole museum in one day. And during that time, I got to see a lot of cool objects like, the Rosetta stone, a mummy crocodile, a giant sketch by Michaelangelo, the infamous Portland vase, that famous Japanese wave print that they have plastered on every item everywhere you go and the friezes along the Parthenon.

The most fun I had was tracking down something I really wanted to see was the Sutton Hoo mask. I am an avid fan of the Food Network show Ace of Cakes, and in this one episode they were tasked with making this mask in cake. The pictures provided where 100% clear, so they "made up" some stuff as the design element--I had just wanted to see how close they came. Too my surprise and disappointment, it turns out they ultimately created the replica that sits in the museum, with details interpreted by the museum team... the real mask which is also displayed is a bit older. I am not sure what it says about me that I get my cultural lessons now from a reality show. Nevertheless, it was a very fun little "side" trip that I managed to accomplish.

The most interesting thing to me though was how admittance worked. Unlike the NYC Met, a donation really meant a donation, and not a cash register line where you had to feel like an @ss for saying, "no, I don't want to make a donation, I know it's free." (I never had to say it, I just waived my employee pass since they were both corporate sponsors.) Nevertheless, the British Museum was beautiful, well maintained and had some amazing traveling special exhibits.

New: Monday and the Tate Modern
On Monday, our last, full day in London, we did the "New." We took the tube, crossed the beautiful and somewhat slippery Millennium Bridge and eventually arrived at the Tate Modern.

I don't know what it is but since I went to the modern exhibit on the top floor of the National Portrait Gallery (thanks Stacey), I have really developed a love for Modern Art. All those years of going to Whitney Biannuals never made the same impact that one hour on that floor did. Modern Art was provocative and different, but it never spoke to me. It never made me want to sit or look at it from all angles like I would a great Renaissance piece. I never studied a modern piece too long for what it was trying to say unless it was an assignment. Not the way I would willingly forego food and water in order to figure out why an artist included that piece of fruit or object and what that piece symbolized all those years ago. Modern art did strike some emotion in me, but it was usually an uncomfortable feeling, never really about beauty and awe.

I really wanted to know if this new found interest was a one-time thing, or perhaps an area that I had finally grown to appreciate. After the Tate Modern, I think I have a better idea. I like three dimensional pieces, I still like paintings from the "old guys": Picasso, Jasper Johns etc., but I am still not 100% on board with mixed media art that includes video. I can appreciate it more, but sometimes to me, it's still someone's home movies. I'll give it some more time.

For lunch that day we went to Wagamama, a restaurant chain, serving pan-Asian food in the style of a modern noodle bar. I figured after putting my dad through so much modern art, of which he in general is not a fan, I owed him either hot, pub food, fish and chips, or ramen. Ramen appeared first.

On a Marketing note, Wagamama has a number of interesting features gimicks:

• Orders are taken via PDSs, and wirelessly networked to the kitchen, so that as soon as an order is taken it can begin to be prepared.
• Food is delivered to the table once cooked, with side dishes being served instead of starters
• Customers sit on either side of large tables - one table can seat 20 people or more.

That night I got to fulfill a promise three years in the making. I went to visit my friend Maggie. I've known Maggie for a long time. Our families go way back. But I didn't get to really know here until Jr High and then the paper, and then Gov't Team. And then she was there for my Boston breakdown, and ultimately we lived in NYC for a few years. It's strange, I really miss not having her close by, I know she always has a kind word and she's fantastically smart and extraordinarily passionate, but not in a you have to believe what I believe way. Anyway, I went to go visit her new apartment and we had good Indian food next door. The trip to her place wasn't that bad at all, but of course, I still got a little lost. (I will say this whole trip that I never took the wrong tube. Which furthers my theory that somehow I get along great directionally underground, but at street level, I am hopeless.) I got to catch up with her and see her wedding photos (a wedding I so wanted to attend but ultimately couldn't). Hopefully I'll get to see her later this year in the states again.

Most important:
Seeing Maggie and going to London in general will be possible again, since three times really is a charm. After massive food poisoning the first time, and an airline strike that effectively ended the second visit, this third visit was my "final" go... if it had gotten ruined, that was it... London which I adore in writing would be off the trip list forever. Now as it is, if McCain had been elected, I would have had somewhere to go. :)

44th US President

It's happened!

Barack Obama is the new President of the United States.

There is an elation and peace that there hasn't been in 8 years. It was a privilege and honor to get to have a voice in this election. Boy am I glad I flew back from London in time to participate. This is the first minority president the US has ever had...but more importantly a substantial win, a distinct majority. Hopefully this will send a message throughout the US and the rest of the world. Our new president may face a difficult 4 years ahead, but for tonight, there appears to be real reason to rejoice.

P.S.: I guess this means no more Tina Fey as Palin though... SNL must be a bit sad. :P

Not Patron: But Totally Stirred and Shaken

So this weekend, I went to London so that I could see 007 two weeks ahead of time. Well, I WAS in London and I did see James Bond Quantum of Solace, but I did a few other things this weekend too.
While I've loved all the gentlemen who have played James Bond through the years, and loved the camp and the over-the-top, debonair attitude of the spy in Her Majesty's Secret Service... I must admit my total and utter adoration of Daniel Craig. This is a new Bond and a better Bond...

I thought the "Nike" chase scene in the last Bond was cool and couldn't be topped, but the car chase scene at the beginning of Solace was unforgettable. There were so many twists and unexpected turns. And he is so utterly cool and calm, different from the "Remington-steelness" of Pierce Brosnan.

I was a bit concerned since I heard this Bond was a bit shorter in running time. But it was not too long, not too short, just perfect. I was never bored, kept breathless enough times but still left wanting another one. But the new crew that is putting together these scripts and the new list of director's (I think this one was the one who did Monster's Ball) is really going for quality.

The bad guys are badder (thank goodness). The girls are still pretty but not the focus, just cool set dressing (then again, it wouldn't be the same without them). [I must admit that one girl was a bit annoying and kinda wish the ending had gone the other way... then again it wouldn't be Bond-like enough.] The locations are gorgeous and perfectly used for maximum effect. And it's still tongue in cheek.... no speedo though... too bad. :)

On a more personal note, I still really liked the first movie, but the physical environment left a bit of a bad taste due to the company I was with... but this time... watching it in London, with a notable US audience, the last show, was incredibly fun and a great memory.

Two More Off the List

Since I've been MIA whether it's because of work, wedding, NYC-itis or travel... I haven't been taking advantage of SF as much as I should.

This weekend, I managed to cross a few more items off the lists that I've been given.

First, Tartine Barkery. I don't even know where to begin. The bread was fantastic, the decor was lovely, and I got an open faced pork belly sandwich with heirloom tomatoes, crisp lettuce and avocado that was to-die-for. I MUST go again for dinner, where the menu looks even more fantastic. This might actually replace Elite Cafe as my fave in SF so far. It won't replace Tia Pol just yet, but this was almost close to that experience. Shocker!

After three failed attempts, I finally made it to Bi-Rite Creamery on Saturday. Bi-rite, is this amazing ice cream place in the Mission near Dolores Park. After hearing not only my cousin's but also friends rave about it, I somehow kept missing the opportunity. They have your traditional flavors but I opted for a Single cup with two flavors. I got their most popular Salty Caramel and Roasted Banana. Salty Caramel sounds a big odd, but just think about a big box of Cracker Jack or Caramel Kettle Corn minus the popped corn and that's pretty much it... each flavor the salty-sweet make it a fun surprise for every lick. And Roasted Banana 'cause while I don't each bananas, I still love banana dessert. Yum! (Still need to go back next summer and try Balsamic Strawberry.)

Amazingly, there were no lines at either place... which is as far as I have heard and seen, very unusual. Doesn't happen. In fact, after going to Dolores Park to enjoy our ice cream, there was a lone line out the store and halfway down the block at Bi-Rite.

I thought Saturday was an incredible edible day, but Sunday was no slouch either. Met up with my cousin Jen and went to the Tenderloin to brave the long line at Dottie's. I haven't had such a simple but perfect brunch/diner meal in "never before." The scrambled eggs were still soft, not at all overcooked. The French Toast was cinnamon and vanilla and still had some crunch even when drenched in syrup. I have never really been fond of pancakes but I actually ate one. And the hash browns were perfectly cooked and bit size (usually the non-crispy kinds are not throughly cooked nor and waaayyy too huge). I didn't even mind the 45 minute wait. Best-est brunch I've had. Though it'd tied with Mama's but in a different way.

Sunday night, 'cause I wasn't about to need any food before then was at Cat's. Cashew chicken with yellow peppers. That right folks, that is how good it was... I, who NEVER eat peppers ate Cat's yummy dish without complaint and scraped by plate clean. This does not mean I am a pepper convert, green and red (unless it's roasted) are still on my no go list. But Cat really can make almost anything taste great.

Part of me hope London food is good, but if so, I am going to have to cease eating until T-day if I keep going to yummy places.

p.s.: I have just past the 6 month mark in SF... sigh.

Reading Rainbow Rules!

So as you can see from the post-topic, I love me some Reading Rainbow (to this day, my fave airplane celebrity sighting has been Levar Burton, host of Reading Rainbow)! And I clearly enjoy alliteration.

Though I have tried and tried, I have hit a bit of a wall with knitting. My safety net is currently in London and while I've had some success, I feel a bit directionless. And the best way to combat difficulty is... avoidance. (That's my cross, and I am sticking to it! For now.)

And that's where the big question comes up, will I ever be able to do anything in moderation? I don't know if it's the Gemini in me, or the rather instant gratification I get (speed reader that I am) when it comes to devouring a book. It doesn't even have to be good, just readable, the only book I haven't been able to get through my whole life, thus far, because of pure I didn't WANT to anymore was Last of the Mohicans.... didn't really like the movie either. (Just saying.)

I was inspired on my latest kick by Brian, whose weekly updates are a joy to read and a treasure of great, fun things. And since I really don't like music (I have no taste) and I still can't park real well, I decided to attempt his a-book-a-week concept. But, of course, I crammed it all into one week, instead. Oops.

So since Wednesday, a week ago, until this past Wednesday, I have been reading books like crazy. Historical non-fiction, fiction, Current Biography (yes, I realize that's also non-fiction), Chic-Lit and short stories and more first-person narrative. So here's a quick summary, for anyone who is contemplating staying in with a good book as the weather gets colder (colder supposedly, my apartment got up to 90 degrees today without AC.)

Wednesday: Inside Steve's Brain by Leander Kahney
Opinion: I have a whole separate post, I wrote out by hand, and will post it when I find it. To sum up though, I read more aobut Steve Job's being a genuis and psycho, but I also have placed an order for my new Mac, regardless.)

Thursday: Dry: A Memoir by Augesten Burroughs
Opinion: This is from the author of Running with Scissors and continuation of his pilgrimage to NYC where he enters the world of advertising. So I THOUGHT the book would be about NYC and advertising. What's not to like? But the memoir was in fact a hard look at his journey to sobriety, so suffice it to say, it was NOT what I expected. But it was a great read, nonetheless.)

Saturday: Holidays on Ice by David Sedaris
Opinion: This is the first David Sedaris book I read, and I have been told he an acquired taste... like uni, you either like it or you don't. So I decided to ease myself in with a short one. And as much as I like uni, I like Sedaris. I like his writing even more since I read an recent op-ed piece he wrote about undecided voters in the upcoming elections, it's scathing, but I digress.)

Monday: Sellevision by Augesten Burroughs
Opinion: It's a look behind the scenes at a QVC like world and it's hosts. Funny fiction, though not as good as his personal stories. I thought it'd be about TV, so what was there to lose? Eh, made more a good plane read.

Tuesday: Jane Boleyn: The True Story of the Infamous Lady Rochford by Julia Fox
Opinion: Long book. Probably should have tried to finish it in two days and gotten more sleep that night instead. However, I love the whole Henry VIII time period, and I am about to go to Londong so I was looking for a book to give me a good "english"-fix.

Wednesday: Queen of Babble by Meg Cabot
Opinion: After Jane Boleyn I was looking for a lighter read. I thought the book was about a Bridget-Jones clone's trip from America to England but most of the book ended up taking place in France. The author is the one who wrote the Princess Diaries series, which to be honest were much better... as are some of her other books. And Yeah, I'll say it, I've read the Princess Diaries series. :P

Currently...bus ride: Naked by David Sedaris and bedtime reading another Sophie Kinsella book that I can't even remember the name of. After that, a great thick book about Michaelangelo. Can't wait.

p.s.: I really do need to remember to breathe if I am going to continue to read at this rate. :)

Somewhere Between Family and Friends

As 4Q heats up and in this time of impending recession, work has consumed a lot of time. However, I was fortunate enough to take some time last week and attend my cousin's happy nuptials.

I can't quite find the perfect book synopsis to describe the couple's story, (it's a bit Disney princess, a bit Bridget Jones, a bit Romeo and Juliet) because it really was both a romance of a lifetime and a whirlwind courtship--but in the end, perhaps the most touching to me, is the idea of marrying your best friend.
I was glad to be invited and contribute in a small way and look in as both a family member and a friend. It made for an interesting juxtaposition. The ceremony was lovely, complete with beautiful couple and comic relief (ringbearer and a too long aisle and the bouquet toss that almost ended in a concussion), seeing friends and classmates I hadn't seen in up to 11 years and perhaps renewing some friendships that have languished. It was also to be lovely around family and have a happy, happy reason to celebrate. The mother of the bride and matron of honor's toasts were especially lovely.

The couple is clearly very much in love and the words I most often heard associated were "perfect," "storybook," and "fairytale." And perhaps to some this really is a "tale as old as time," but to me it was two best friends declaring to their friends and families that they are in it for a lifetime. Maybe it took them awhile to get to that place where they were both in a position to recognize that since the chance meeting at the Public Library so many years ago, but they got there and now are beginning their life as a "we," together.

I realized that I also gained something more than just wonderful memories of a fun celebration, my family has grown too. Despite everything that has happened, FAMILY is still number 1 to me. And while my new mantra also includes "friends are the family YOU choose," in this case, I got both... I am now able to welcome a friend into my blood-related family as well.

Welcome to the family, Seoyoung!

P.S.: I'm glad I been able to see your forever friendship blossom along the way... from the Public Library, to Gov't Team, to Sadie's, to Prom to Ragtime and beyond.

It's Feels Like Fall...

This morning I was watching the weather report and there are supposed to be windgusts up to 40 mph. So I was a bit unnerved when I walked outside this morning, I was completely surprised by the crisp, Fall feeling in the air.

You know, the one where when you breathe in, a bit of cold follows... or it's like the air is so crisp your hair is going to behave perfectly... or that the natural electricity in the air makes you feel so alive and that it's the perfect day to wander around and not be in an office. I guess that might be what summer is for most people, but after 10 years of distinct seasons, I didn't know what I was missing until today. I know that I can't be alone in my feelings.

I feel a bit like I'm just looking at my life go by from the outside in... not really living in the moment. People are fine, there isn't a want of things to do, work is fine, everything is fine, but nothing is in color...it's not shades of grey, it's just sepia-toned.

I am so homesick for NYC today that it actually physically hurts.

I already know what today would be... if it were a workday, I'd leave my windows open (having taken my allergy medication), walked through Central Park, debated whether or not to take the subway, and instead have walked to work, been a bit late, and worked at my small desk so I could look out the window all day. Today's the first day that you'd need both a sweater and a scarf, but I would also time myself for each block as I walked home, so that I could create that "create your own wind" feeling when walking. I'd take the opportunity to look up at the sky and notice that it was getting darker sooner, and notice that other people were hurrying home head down, buried in their coats. I'd take the long way home, and cut through the park, so you could see the cyclists and runners, and I'd pause for a few minutes and just people watch, facing into the park, and hear the sounds of the city. With all that walking, it'd make me want to cook or at least make a huge fresh salad, 'cause who am I kidding, I can't cook to save my life. But I'd walk back from Whole Foods, weighed down by groceries, say hello to my doorman, grab my mail and head upstairs. Leave the blinds open and look down towards Lincoln Center and maybe pour myself a glass of wine. I'd leave the windows open until the apartment became a wind tunnel and pull out my warm and soft PJs, actually make my bed by piling on the blankets, grab a book, no tv, and read until it was time for bed. The perfect Fall work day. The next day, shopping for sure, bright and early and it'd be the last outdoor brunch with friends until late Spring rolled around.

I can almost sense every taste, smell, sound, sight, and texture... and it's just out of reach. It's not loneliness that I suffer from here... it's just such an acute sense of nostalgia that I feel for the place I still call home. It's not a joking, "well you should go back to NYC..." It's like I'm standing at a window looking in and I can't ever have what's on the other side of that glass... ever.

Knotted Up

So my recent reason for being MIA is because I've found a new hobby... I am trying my hand (or hands, rather) at knitting. Now I think once upon a time, I knew how to knit. And many moons ago, when I was in NYC I went to a knitting class with my cousin Mike and we each knit a hat that neither of us could wear. (His was too small, mine was too big...it was all very Golidlocks and the Three Bears).
So I've knitted an insanely yellow scarf (for practice), I yellow and black block (to try out different knitting patterns), and for my first project a scarf and hat. The first "official" project is moving along well. So far, I've only had to obliterate the hat once and start over and while I've run out of yarn I was able to secure some more, so I am off and running. The problem is, I've decided that I am going to give my work away. This will encourage me to do really well, so that friends and family don't get that "look" of "Thanks, what am I going to do with this crap!" But as a result, I don't want to give the surprise element away and I can't post about it.
The cool thing about knitting is that it soothes the control freak in me, it gives me something to do as I sit and watch TV, it's an alternative to tele-phona-internetting, and if I'm lucky it's another skill. Plus I've found that knitters and Knitters are insane people... maybe in a good way.
I've gotten a chance to list goals and projects and something to spend money on since, my clothing now consists of browns, greys and greens...dull city. Shopping has lost its luster. People here listen to music and go outside and enjoy the outdoors... (shudder). So knitting allows me to stay indoors, while keeping busy and still not learning how to cook.
So, for the few who have been reading this, beware... you're all getting knitwear this holiday season, though at the rate I am going... you're going to luck out and get something store bought instead!

These Are A Few of My Favorite Things

So the transition to San Francisco has not been easy. While all the elements are there, I’m still making plans, no real spur of the moment excursions. It’s been 5 months and I still feel like a bit of an east coast transplant, a foreigner in a foreign land. But I sort of anticipated that and before I even arrived, I had set myself some markers and things to look forward to in order to get me over the proverbial “hump.”

One of those markers was the largest West Coast book fair. Ever since I was a kid, the annual library book sale was one of my favorite activities. It always ended with my mom finding me sitting under a table surrounded by towers of book and looking the happiest. While in NYC, I took advantage of the nearby Barnes & Noble on rainy days, the public library system and all the used book stores.

While the book fair started on a Wednesday, I wasn’t able to go until Saturday. It was amazing—a giant warehouse full of the written word. Just hundreds of rows of books, thousands and thousands of copies and even shopping carts! I brought my wheelie and packed it full on Saturday. I was in heaven and bliss. But I wasn’t through yet, on Sunday, I met up with Anne in the afternoon and spent another 4 hours at the book fair. We went through all the foreign language books, and I got a bunch of hardcovers. Best part? All books on Sunday, were only $1. Eee!

So now I have book lined up on my staircase, since I have yet to clear out my bookcase, but everyday that I walk in, I smile at my little stacks of books—all those pages waiting to be turned, all those stories waiting to be read. I can’t wait for the one next year.

Always a Bridesmaid…

Three weekends ago, was my dear friend Liz’s nuptials. I’ll admit that I’ve watched “Bridezilla,” “Whose Wedding is it Anyway?” and “Say Yes to the Dress.” So when Liz asked me to be a part of the wedding party I said yes without hesitation, but growing trepidation.

I should have known better. Lizbet had only one die-hard rule that she refused to budge on. “Don’t come naked!” But instead of pasties, I got to wear a lovely purple dress that was extremely comfortable—best bridesmaid dress ever.

Day of, there was a Marine layer in the morning but it rolled out by the afternoon. And the ceremony took place in the shade with a lovely breeze.

Good food, great drinks, cool people. I even got to catch up with friends fro mall over people I hadn’t seen in years and awesome new ‘maids to share a laugh with. I think the pictures say it all.

p.s.: Sex kitten lashes and sexy librarians are two of my new favorite phrases.

Whew, Just an Outlier

Ok, I know I've been remiss in posting. Believe me I have little pieces of paper everywhere with scribbles. Will really have to learn how to post mobile-ly. Hopefully this weekend will give me some time to catch up.

But as the subject line dictates (and I wanted to keep it a bit statistic's termonolgy related)... watched Big Bang Theory again this week, and while it was funny, it wasn't falling on the floor and especially with HIMYM being a good episode has convinced me it was just an outlier BBT episode that I happened to catch. Whew.

Big Bang Geeks Out

So in anticipation of HIMYM last night, I started waiting the show that comes on before--The Big Bang Theory. The premise was interesting to me, and during season 1 promos, I realized that I had the same shirt of the Flash that the character Sheldon has. But I thought no way this show will survive and they are just going to make fun of the nerds....

I watched the show last night, and while I am a self admitted geek, I haven't laughed so hard and identified so much... it's a show for a lot of audiences... in-jokes, surface jokes, stereotypical jokes, but fun on a lot of different levels. And as I wrote to someone earlier today... they worked in Catwoman, Batman, X-men and Pasadena City College and much more in one show...

Here are two of my favorite clips...

Never Judge A Book By Its Cover

I am totally and entirely guilty of this habit... I will often decide to read a book based on its cover and blurb on the back of the book jacket. It's not the only way I pick books, but it's certainly a nice way to get variety, since I often stick with authors I like and make my way through all their books and then just kind of float in a vacuum until whacks me with a good book.

But I do judge. And for all intense purposes Burn After Reading had a really good cover and trailer...
1. Coen Brother's
2. John Malkovich
3. Conspiracy
4. Frances McDormand
5. J.K. Simmons (for those of you who like The Closer and the Spiderman movies)
6. George Clooney
7. Brad Pitt

And I know I laughed when I watched it, but I really can't remember it a few, short days later (maybe I was pre-occupied).
I do remember certain scenes:
1. Far and away my fave, Cox doing aerobics, completely priceless
2. George's "secret" hobby reveal
3. Any of Brad's little dances (he's come a long way since Mr. & Mrs. Smith)
4. Frances' trip to the Russian embassy
5. JK's befuddled state of certainty

It must have been OK, since it was #1 this weekend, or I have temporary amnesia.
Oh, I remember one more thing... I positively COVET Tilda Swinton's gold link necklace. To quote Rachel Zoe, "I Die."

Cable Cars & Chowder

Today was supposed to be a San Francisco day, in the morning, JJ and I headed out to the Cable Cars near Ghirardelli Square. We took the cable car past the twisty portion of Lombard, all the way down to Market St. Then we, well more I, did damage to our credit cards.

We strolled to and through the Ferry Building and took the Light Rail up to Pier 39. We decided to have some chowder at Pompei’s Café and sit outside where we had an unobstructed view of Hooter’s. I still have yet to find someone who will go there with me. Sigh.

That night we ventured into the Marina and went to a wine bar, Bin 38. I’ve been wanting to go here for a long time but somehow always missed the opening. The ambiance is great, and I like it better than Nectar. We ordered French Fries, Roast Beef Sandwich, Grilled Squash and Chicken Salad. A few things:

• We had WAY TOO many fries since the RB ‘wich also included fries
• RB was just right, especially paired with my rich, Malbec (that’s right IMC’ers, I’ve struck Malbec)
• Grilled squash was flavored well, but couldn’t compare with the previous night’s Grilled Summer Veggies

· Real surprise was the Chicken Salad. And thank goodness JJ insisted. This was far and away the best chicken salad I’d had in at least 7 eleven years. Yup, it was pre-undergrad that I had a chicken salad I’d go back for more. The romaine hearts were perfectly crisp, just enough chomp. The chicken was prepared perfectly, I don’t even know what to say. That was the point when we just concentrated on eating, no talking.

The other delight of the evening was: Rosenblum Late Harvest Zinfandel 2006 (CA) Ripe rich raspberries, black currants and spicy, jammy essences. Exquisite with chocolate or as the perfect dessert on its own.

I was going to go for my usual Muscat, but thought I’d try something else. The server recommended a Zinfandel (!) as her favorite and told me it wasn’t like ice wine nor port, but something less sweet but a dessert wine. She was right, this is really something special. I liken it to a chocolate chip cookie v. an oatmeal raisin cookie. Both are dessert, both are good. But they are completely different. While this doesn’t replace the Muscato d’Asti, this is definitely a treat I’ll make a return trip for at Bin 38.

Exploration Down Unda

Warning: There’s a lot of post’s about food in the following two posts… I hit a coupla jackpots this weekend. Plus, I am staring at the bridesmaid dress and trying to be good.

SFMOMA Café’s Summer Vegetable Salad is the best salad I’ve had in a long, long time. The crunchiness, crispness, and perfect amount of vinaigrette per bite was sublime. And though it may sound silly, my love of salads played a part in my decision to move to CA and more specifically SF.

Saturday morning, I journeyed to Mission and shopped for button’s at a discount store. Then AC and I headed to Ti Couz, for some of the most amazing crepes, I’ve ever had. I got the Nutella and Banana plus a Fresh Pressed Bowl of Cider to drink. I did get a few bits of AC’s savory seafood crepe, but my dessert for lunch was dreamy and de-lish. I will be headed back there. After a gorgeous lunch on an equally gorgeous day, we headed to Imagin-Nits, to pick up my new knitting materials. That’s right, after year’s of not being able to figure out what to do with my hands, except pick at junk food, I am going to occupy my TV time with wool instead. If all goes well, everyone’s getting some awkwardly knitted items this Holiday season.

This is also the weekend that the dreaded Church & Davis struck again. I’ve been trying to reduce my carbon footprint, so I’ve been trying to take the bus. Well, I got on the right bus but went the wrong way. Which would have normally been a fine adventure, but JJ from Aussie was sitting on my doorstep with no way in, while I was gallivanting my way across the city. After finally arriving 45 minutes late, I asked JJ where he wanted to go “exploring,” which was Castro. That was fine and dandy, ‘cept it was exactly two blocks from where my Church and & Davis moment had been. I could have been on time and relaxed if I’d only have known. Instead, I went to the same place via public transportation 5x in the same day (counting my Far East trip).

Castro was fun too. Everyone was out (literally and figuratively) and about. Rainbow flags everywhere and cute stores. But what struck me was the number of packed café and eateries around. Shall have to find out which ones are worth going back too. I did manage to score the ultimate geek accessory. Star Trek T’s, original, not TNG.

That night I went to dinner at Chiaroscuro, right next to the Transamerica building. This has been on my list of places to visit since Annie brought it up. It was really good. The wait was long, but the host was really nice and gave us a round of drinks. The food was timely and hot and tasty. I ordered the Tagliolini Carbonara. JJ and I split a heavenly plate of grilled vegetables. And while everything was yum, I could have, should have, will just inhale a plate of those instead. If you every have the chance to go, don’t forget to dip your bread in the amazing olive oil and lemon that they provide.

What was pointed out to me that was also really cool was the way the food was ultimately prepped by the kitchen. It was an open set up, meaning we could just look in, but more admirably, there was just a single table and the chef or sous-chef stood behind it. The cooked food was brought out to him, and then he plated it right there, sans any fancy footwork except culinary skill. It really makes you realize that some are in it for the love of food. The chef was also very nice, he came out at varying points of the night to talk to each table. The ambiance was lovely, dark and quiet, lit by candles, and while everyone was talking the sound stayed at each table, so the feeling was still intimate and private. JJ’s High School friends were really cool and made me feel totally part of the group rather than the interloper that I was.

What is Art? Art is a Man's Name

Today, we went to SFMOMA.

Since June I've wanted to see the Frida Kahlo exhibit at the SFMOMA, but for one reason or another, I never made it there until today.

I think the thing with Kahlo's art is as my mother says, she doesn't use words, she uses pictures to tell her story and her thoughts. So while it is beautiful, it's completely exhausting because you "read" a lot with her works. All you have to do is look at her art and feel every bit of her on the canvas, pouring screaming, shouting, crying, pleading out to you. The only painting in the whole collection that exuded peace was one that featured an old lady, not related directly to Kahlo. But her talent is undeniable and every stroke is an exercise in raw power.

What was really surprising was Half-Life of a Dream featuring contemporary Chinese art. These Chinese artists are really impressive, young and passionate. The exhibit I saw reminded me a lot of the work that I saw in the art alley's in Beijing last year. Their work demonstrates a wicked sense of humor and a Eastern sense of beauty, but boiling just below the surface is paramount rage and disenchantment. So no matter how innocent the smiling face, how pretty and delicate the bird, how languid the nude, there is a whole story just simmering and reaching to get out--to get back the lost years, to hold the government accountable, straining to be heard. This is the right showcase for this art--angry and regal.

After a meal for the mind, we looked to feed our stomachs as well. For that, we turned to Yank Sing, by far the best and high-priced Dim Sum, I've had in SF, NY, and possibly LA. It really was a treat to be able to gorge ourselves on great meal fare. It passed my Dad's quality test, which says a lot, so thanks Anne, who recommended the place.

De Young and De Beautiful

It was De Lovely, like a great Cole Porter song, I went ga-ga for the De Young Museum today.

My parents came in for Labor Day weekend and we figured we would get through a few SF exhibits. First and foremost on the list, Chihuly at the de Young.

It was a glassworks exhibit by Dale Chihuly. From the Mille Fiori (a 56-foot garden of glass) to the Saffron Tower (a 30-foot neon sculpture), this exhibition definitely challenges convention and the imagination--bright colors and bold installations--delicate and challenging.

(Below, some photos I took...)











Following a just an ok meal at the De Young cafe (salty Mac-n-Cheese, dried but well-flavored corn and tough, chewy burger.) we strolled over to the Japanese gardens. The weather was cool, but sunny and the gardens were lush but restrained and well-maintained.


The De Young building was a gorgeous piece of modern architecture and with the oft-delayed Academy of Sciences about to open, I have every intention of going back... again and again and again.

p.s.: the artist really reminded me of Albert Finney in Erin Brockovich, but with an eye-patch ( a bit pirate-ty, but not Johnny-Depp in the least). When we were watching the DVD of the glasswork, I kept expecting Julia Roberts to appear. :)

Snapshots

I've been MIA recently. So before getting back to some regularly scheduled programming. just some quick snapshots and captions of the past two weeks.


Finally been to my first Farmer's Market. Best strawberries I've had in a long time. It's on Thursday, near work, so hopefully I can go more often.


This is Billy in front on his current Chevron fuel station. Wonder if there is a friend's and family discount? :)


Went to the American Craft Show at Fort Mason I thought it'd be more like the one at Lincoln Center twice a year, but it wasn't. Was really colorful and very beautiful but a very high price point.

I did manage to find a new little "cute" owl to add to my collection. It looks great in my apartment. It's also green, made from recycled materials--sweaters, that is, by Woolie Originals. I love how it looks like it's in motion.

Last weekend, I was in LA for some family time. Caught up with KT (gotta love cable TV) and went to yet another Loehmann's. Had yet to go to the "best" Loehmann's, so we trooped over to the one in Beverly Hills--the women and men's store. It did not disappoint. But I still like the thrill of the search at the two NYC locations. I did pick up some cool things, and it was by far the best organized one and it had the most insanel cool "Back Room."

*Batteries Not Included

After I drove from CA to CO and back, I bonded with my little white Geo Prism... and after I came back for a visit after moving to NYC, I saw that my car was being held together with duct tape... so my car was my "White Trash Baby."

Now that I have been through my traumatic experience with this white Prius with a green stripe, I have bonded with it too. Debating whether or not to call it Wheems, Jetsam or Flotsam after the baby fix-its from the 1987 film *Batteries Not Included.

Close Call

I thought the most exciting thing that would happen to me this weekend is that I would actually drive for over an hour on my own. That hasn't happened since the summer after my junior year of undergrad, I think.

And although I continue to make an @ss of myself by continuing to assume things. It just goes to show you that life might decide to hand you a sour lemon for you to make limoncello out of some days.

Case in point...

Drove out to San Ramon area to see Billy (post-Singapore assignment) and had to have my car jumped again by AAA. (ps: this guy was friendly and came within 15 minutes of my initial call, but not as nice as the first guy) This time it took a few tries to jump the engine and he suggested that I get the car checked out. I really thought it was just that I hadn't driven it enough the previous jump.

Drove on out to East Bay, no problems. Looking back, I realize just how lucky I was. I volunteered to drive us to lunch, but when we got in the car the door barely unlocked and while the car would turn on, there wasn't enough power to turn it off.

Most dealer service department's aren't open on Sundays. So we opted to drive to the dealership after lunch and ask if we could have the car towed to dealership and then Billy would help me deal with it after work on Monday. I couldn't leave the car in front of Billy's house, because at this point, the car door will no longer lock. Wasn't sure what I was going to do if dealership said no. After ordering I had the brilliant idea of looking up the phone number to the dealership via my Verizon Navigator (best $ I ever spent).

Turns out this particular dealership was OPEN on Sundays. They suggested I get it jumped by AAA (Billy graciously used his membership). I followed his car there. We were met by Levi (Awesomely nice) who I had spoken to on the phone and he said it was likely the car battery (not the hybrid battery). He thought that he could have it replaced if that was the problem by Tuesday. Billy offered to drive me home and then pick me up from Dublin's BART station on Tuesday after work to pick up the car. Shortly after we left the dealership, Levi called and said, they had tested the battery. It was completely dead; he was amazed I hadn't just stopped in the middle of the road. I was told I could pick it up in 45 minutes with a new battery. Just like that.
I drove my newly charged Prius to visit the Chevron CEO station (CEO lives nearby) where Billy is currently training.

I also tried to buy shampoo and while the doors to the salon were open, they were closed for business on Sunday. Foiled again. ...It's a long story, but Erin knows. :) It was really the only blemish in what could have been an atrocious day. I met a Shanghainese handyman. I went to 99 Ranch and Costco and had Vietnamese for lunch.... oh yeah, and drove home successfully.

Billy was a great help... and again I have to thank IMC. During the car drama, Billy actually commented twice on how well I was dealing with the whole situation. Pre-IMC, forget it, drama-city.

Oh and just keeping count of the mis-adventures Billy and I have been on now...
1. Dead Prius
2. Italy or bust... apparently bust (in this case) and now I have way more AA miles than I will ever need
3. British Airways strike while Billy and I are in London (thus affecting American Airlines standby oppty's) R
4. 6 hour ride with Anne on NJ Transit from Philly to NYC in the dead of winter, during a "convince Billy to love NYC as much as Anne and I do trip" Oh and then the theater we went to had no heat. Yup, that was just the cherry on top of the freakin' frozen sundae.

And while each of these incidents were not the most pleasant memories, I've been glad that Billy's been there by my side for each one...

If a Cat Has Nine Lives, How Many Does a Prius Have?

My Prius is dead again. Sigh.

I've been waiting all month to go to the American Craft Show. It was a bit surprising as the styles were a little older and way pricer than I thought. I had gone to look for two b-day presents and three wedding presents. Most of what I picked up was from Woolie Originals. I got two new, little owls. And everything else I was attracted to was from... New York. I did overhear a couple of the designers talking about Evanston next week. I assume this is the Art Festival thing. But it brought a smile to my face when I heard about the festival path.

On a fun note, met up with IMC classmates Shivram and Tyler. We went to Circa for bottomless Mimosa's (!) and got the chance to catch up. It's been really nice as of late to see some many alumnus and friends.

Tomorrow I am going to get the car jumped and venture out to Billy's near San Ramon. Keeping my fingers crossed that the car will make it. Though I had thought about taking Bart, I'll have to try that one of these weekends.

Stronger, Higher, Faster...

Friday night I'll admit, I had my chocolate milk, my carrot sticks, and bologna sandwich (yes, I'm five!) and fuzzy socks on and settled in for the Olympic Ceremonies, which even 'mist all the recent controversy is still the most amazing display I've ever seen. Part of me wishes I could have seen it live and part of me was glad I wasn't there engulfed in the mass crush of people and fireworks smoke. I don't know how London plans to top that show.

I'm sure most people who watch the Olympics feel some kind of connection. I do too. For me, it really started with the Atlanta Games. I was fortunate enough to go as a sponsor's guest and had the most amazing time. I will always, always remember it for a number of reasons.
1. I fell in love with Atlanta.
2. Pin Trading (when you start trading pins with people while standing in line during closing ceremonies, you know you've got the bug)
3. Watching Cuba v. Japan in Men's Baseball Finals 8 rows behind home plate
4. Getting to go to closing ceremonies
5. Meeting Holyfield and Nadia and Bart.
6. Cheering a runner during Track and Field from last to first to last, but still chanting U-S-A.
7. Most importantly, getting to go with my father. At the time my mother suggested I go with my dad, I honestly thought that maybe I wasn't going to make it back in one piece. But it turned out to be, to this day, one of the most striking memories I have with my father. I'm not sure how good a time he had, but he made the trip so wonderful in so many ways that in all honesty it's why I even looked up the oppty that became my summer job before I graduated.

So that brings me to the other reason that the Olympics are special to me. I got to work for the USOC on Corporate Sponsorships and live in Colorado Springs, at the training facility. It was right before Sydney, so again that experience made the Olympics near and dear to my heart.
1. Getting to stare at Ian Thorpe through the glass window to the pool to watch him train
2. Meeting some great people that I still to this day know what they are up to
3. Working with some of the biggest companies in the world
4. Finally bonding with my 1996 Geo Prism and learning how to drive (for once)
5. Driving by cows, horses and antelope everyday on the way to work
6. Playing Pictionary and Taboo with the athletes
7. Choosing between WalMart and Tar-jey
8. Learning how to shoot a pistol, pretty well actually (way more fun to me than gambling)

So for Sydney, I was up at insane hours, watching and cheering people that I had actually gotten to know over the summer at an Olympics.

Part of my job had been to collect potential host material for the 2008 and 2012 Olympics. For 2012, London won, but being in NYC while it was a finalist was actually kinda cool.

And as for 2008, there is an element of pride and a hope of a good presentation to the world. There will be no stage bigger to show how far China has come and how far it has left to go. (Oh, yeah, and did I mention the Men's 400 Relay?) I was screaming at the TV. :)

I Guess I Have to Learn to Love the Road

With all the flying I've been doing lately, and friends in town, I have seriously neglected my car. This weekend was almost no different. Tried to start it and it was dead... even the doors wouldn't "tha-thunck" and lock. No keyless start, just no start...at all. I took stock and realized that I haven't started my car in a month. So I spent quite a bit of time this weekend researching how badly I might have damaged my car. Turns out, while not good, not too bad. Called AAA on Tuesday, first time I have used them since being a member for over 20 years (not sure why I had a AAA card when I was 9 or 10, but oh well). The guy who came was really nice, very friendly... though SF is more like NYC then I thought. Some chick tried to steal my technician right out from under me. When he pulled up, she came outta nowhere and starting talking about he needed to come jump "her" car, it had died, blah, blah, blah, until he pointed at me and said, "You need to wait. She called AAA; you should too." Ha! (So this weekend, I'll be driving to San Ramon... watch out everyone.)

The rest of my weekend was pretty fun too. My friend the Sophie Marceau look-a-like, came into town. We met up on Saturday and went with her friend Amy to Mama's. And I have to say, it did not disappoint at all. Thankfully we made it in before they closed, and we even ended up in a booth seat. The mgr and owner gave us the best tip ever, forget the maple syrup, they have homemade blackberry jam that is TOO DIE FOR. After a yum brunch (accompanied by a glass of milk), we headed down Union to do a little shopping and later Kara's Cupcakes.

p.s.: I am so disappointed in the recent iteration of the Hillshire Farms "Go Meat!" commercials. I have stopped chanting along. Another one bites the dust.

Home Ec Skills On Display

See me hard at work on "bridesmaid duty"! Check out the rehearsal bouquet I created with the tissue paper and ribbons and tassels (yes, that's right tassels, because what shower would be complete without tassels?!) from the presents the bride-to-be received at her Broadway themed bridal shower.

I'm One; What's Your Excuse?

I have no excuse. :)

I have an new admiration for all good parents. (When I said this to my mother Monday morning, she laughed so hard and for so long I was a bit concerned.) I also understand why I am totally not ready to be one.

Grec and Pem can this weekend with Baby W for a visit. The last time I saw Baby W was when he was not yet walking. What a difference a few months makes! This time he was walking and moving all the time. And he's like a whole person now, complete with personality and an adorable, heartbreakingly awesome smile.

I have always liked visits from Grec and Pem. They are the perfect guests that you wish for (ok, I wish for). And even with Baby W in tow, they were still a welcome addition to my now empty and too-quiet apartment.

So Saturday was jammed-packed. I finally got to see a bit more of SF thanks to Grec and Pem. (Pictures TK)
1. We started off by going to second b-fast at The Grove on Chestnut (Eggs Florentine, only so-so)
2. Then we walked to the Bay
3. Then to Fort Mason
4. Out to the walkway leading to Alcatraz
5. Then the little beach
6. Then Ghiradelli's
7. Then down to the Embarcadero, Pier 39 and then to see the Sea Lions
8. Then we took the Light Rail (muni pass works) down to Market and the Ferry Building, before arriving at the Yerba Buena Carousel.
9. I got to go on the Merry-Go-Round too and got to watch Baby W's first ride.
10. We went to the Zeum playground, where completely by chance, one of the playground people made up a song and rhymed a song with "Aunt Winnie" while I was standing there (he didn't know my name!). I got to take Baby W with me down a slide!
11. Then we went to dim sum and beard papa.

I know that was just a long list, but this post will never end otherwise. I now have a much better idea of what I live around at least. And that night, I have never fallen asleep so quickly. Sunday was great... had brunch at Squat & Gobble with Grec & Pem and A & D. While I normally love the crepes here, it was a bit too crowded for my tastes but the company was nice and the conversation was lovely.

Grec and Pem are good parents... I say that not only because of they way that they take such good care of Baby W, but also because in a short 14 months they have already perfected the art of distraction. After this weekend, I realize that I am still an immature toddler compared to Grec and Pem. I had seen almost nothing of SF since I arrived and they managed to exhaust me to the point that I forgot to be nervous about babysitting, changing diapers, feeding, or dropping the baby on its head (accidentally, of course). And you know what, they were right, it turned out fine... though I have to attribute most of that to my friend Ann who came and kept me company and played tag team with me when it came to Baby W. Wihtout her, I would have been reduced to fetal position as well.

Like the book, All the Things I Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten, there are a few things that I learned from Grec and Pem's visit.
1. I need to clean more; dustbunnies are my enemy
2. Babies are way more durable than I thought
3. I too, want a stuffed animal whale taller than me
4. Dustbins are my friend
5. Sharing is much easier than I thought

And to Grec and Pem: Come Back! I miss you already! :)

There's No Business LIke Show Business

Take a peak at my cousin's new business venture... his first piece of business for a local Shanghai club... the video played on loop... It's pretty cool.

I Heart Burbank Airport

I am very aware this makes me sound crazy, but after being held captive on flights to nowhere but the runway, trapped in airports due to absurd delays, and having read more James Patterson-esque books to last a lifetime... I must declare I heart Bob Hope Burbank Airport.

SFO--> Burbank:
Trip to airport: Only a 7 minute wait for the BART and even got to sit the whole way. Elevators not running.
Departure: I almost didn't make the flight, but that was because I went to the wrong gate and because the flight actually boarded on time. :)
Arrival: We arrived on time, and got of the plane in a timely fashion because we didn't have to wait for the the gate thing to arrive.
Drive home: No traffic; familiar route, and yummy Steak to eat for dinner (ok, maybe, just maybe that was a little bias due to the perfect steak and greek salad. Drool.)

Burbank--> SFO:
Drive to airport: It took 20 minutes. And I got through security in 5 minutes. A line of two people so plenty of time to slowly take off shoes, take off versus rip-off outerwear, take out laptop etc. Security line, friendly.
Departure: On time. I thought I'd have to check luggage cause it was a teeny plane.
Arrival: EARLY! And I didn't have to go to baggage claim for my bag.
Drive home: Didn't have to even wait in line for cab, good driver, I was at home by 6:45pm. Whole trip, 3 hours 15 minutes.

THAT was a great trip and how I wish it could be everytime.

Dancing Queen

The title to this post, of course, refers to my dear friend Liz. Her bridesmaids threw her a bridal shower which was on Saturday and was a musical extravaganza. Naturally, I got stuck in traffic on the way there and by the time I arrived the other three talented bridesmaids had all but finished decorating and really transforming a beautiful home into a lovely party space... complete with red carpet.


The fact that we coordinated everything via the entire state of California is a testament to organization. It was purple and silver and definitely note-worthy (bad pun). The food was really yummy (b/c the bride-to-be said so) and the games were fun... a ice-breaker Bingo that had everyone screeching and shrieking and running all over the place and a Mad Libs musical that we had to audition for, a la American Idol, that had us rolling around on the floor laughing. Personally, I will never again be able to watch Sound of Music without thinking of Meat Pies. (Try figuring that A-Z connection out!) We had an autograph book, took tons a photos, opened presents, and there were gift bags for all including Mamma Mia face-wipes and really delicious The Color Purple Punch. (Beat that!) We really EMBRACED the theme.

Afterwards, I went to the Block in the O.C. with L. We ate at a place called Alcatraz. The irony here is that they seated us right in front of a twinkly lit Golden Gate bridge model. So I traveled all the way to LA just to eat in San Francisco. Sigh. :)

It was nice day. Exhausting, but more than nice. It was a legend (wait-for-it)-ary moment to look at someone and think back to all the private jokes and memories. That this is person who you grew up with, that you are still friends with despite time and distance. She has never let me down, has always been an inspiration (BR discount, hello?), and always stood by me and always held my hand when she saw that I was in (literal and figurative) pain. She is the kind of person I embrace and say Thank You.

Thank you Liz for making me laugh... over and over until I can't breath sometimes
Thank you Liz for standing in my blind spot when I was recovering from surgery
Thank you Liz for feeding and withholding the cotton candy like a prison warden
Thank you Liz for exploring the "seemingly" employee-only paths at Disneyland
Thank you Liz for taking me to the "cute" dentist and driving me home afterwards
Thank you Liz for helping me not get my @ss kicked by a Korean gang (or wannabe)
Thank you Liz for helping me see straight when I got wonky
Thank you Liz for encouraging me in the constant quest for the perfect pair of boots
Thank you Liz for hauling me off the lane lines and preventing my hair from turning green
Thank you Liz for the hundreds of memories that I share with you that have made up 18 years
(I hold each one near and dear)
Thank you Liz for honoring me and allowing me to be part of your special day

I am beyond fortunate to count you as a friend...
...and beyond lucky to have you count me as one of yours.

Taking a Deep Breath...

I went into recovery mode last week and slept for hours on end. Finally felt more human on Sunday afternoon. On Saturday, I met up with Kate G. and walked around Chestnut in the Marina. We went to Plutos for lunch; I love that place.

We went to Paper Source for all things bridal... cards, wrapping paper, etc. It I had been more awake I could have spent all day there. It was a nice reminder of all the Home Ec-type classes I used to have the luxury to take and enjoyed my little dust gathering projects. Who needs Swiffer when I can make dried flower wreaths and pressed flower-whatevers? It also reminded me of the rows of baby's breath I used to hang from my spiral staircase to dry. I'll only admit it now, but it was like walking into a curtain of tiny stars.

It was nice to catch up with Kate G. and hopefully we'll be doing that "friend exchange" party soon. It was nice to catch up and clear out my DVR, and just hang out. Next weekend will be will be another fight to get to LA. Sigh.

Marvel Bedamned!

This is what Iron Man, The Incredible Hulk, heck, I'll say it, even X-Men (forgive me) only wish about being and in reality should have been. Batman: The Dark Knight lives up to every single good review and ecstatic fan-boy AND fan-girl's dream. It is by far the best movie I've seen in a long time, at least a year (including Juno).

I worship at the feet of Frank Miller and Christopher Nolan. Without a doubt Heath Ledger should get a nom if not the posthumous trophy itself. Not one inch of print that has been devoted to Heath Ledger's Joker is unjustified. I was on the Jack Nicholson bandwagon and still am, but Heath's version brings to life the fear in all of us--a maniac without reason or possiblity of redemption and embraces the heart of darkness. Every character, every bit of the plot was perfect. Michael Caine's Alfred takes the role in a new direction. Morgan Freeman, typecast as the "savior" is fitting in his role as Lucius Fox. It's like coming home, if home were Gotham city.
Nevermind if Gotham is Chicago or New York City. Gotham was alive, the sinking cesspool that it is. Aarron Eckhart portrayal of Two Face is heart-breaking and inspiring--his character personifies the saying the higher they climb, the further they fall. Maggie G. wipes out the distasteful memory of KH and really makes the role her own; you believe that someone as complicated at Harvey Dent or Bruce Wayne could fall for a woman like that--not the one-dimensional simpering wimp from the first prequel. Christian Bale gave us a glimpse in American Psycho and Batman Begins, but I think you can go back to Little Women to see why he really captures the heart of the movie--it's not just Batman's strength but his vulnerabilities that make him a hero... a Dark Knight. And even behind that mask, the commitment to the role is unmistakable.

I cannot say enough good things about this movie. It's been a long time since I've held my breath during a movie, waiting to see what would happen. And everytime that one note held, you knew, KNEW, something was going to happen. Perhaps it was the oxygen depravation but I had a fantastic time at the movies. And it has been a really long time since I've been able to say that. I great up going to opening night and watching 2 or 3 movies a weekend. For awhile I thought I had finally outgrown my imagination (goodbye Neverland), now I know it wasn't me. To quote Norma Desmond, "It's the pictures that got small!" And even if the movie could have been edited down a bit, I'm glad it ran long... god knows, I'm definitely going to see it again and again, and can't even begin to explain how excited I am about the possibility of the next one... Pretty, please... with Batman on top.

Oh, and did I mention the Watchmen trailer. Yee! :) It was like Christmas and Birthday and whatever other holiday floats your boat, all in on.

p.s.: Having just read through what I wrote, I apologize for ALL the grammatical mistakes, but I really wanted to type as the thoughts came.