twilight years

Every year our ward holds an amateur film festival called the Lingos (in honor of Johnny Lingo and as opposed to the Mormies). This was the winning video this year--written by my friend Maria, staring my friend Heather, and supported by other friends in the ward/stake as well.

This speaks to me on so many levels. Enjoy! :)

Twilight Years from Tom on Vimeo.

but remember, while it is me today, we all shall FALL 2009

tomorrow, tomorrow, i love ya, tomorrow!

Oh Edward, it's been too long.......



Until tomorrow at midnight, my love....

stalking alert

Check out my new celebrity crush: Matthew Bomer...

...of White Collar, a new Television series on USA. Thanks to Hulu, I can still catch this blue-eyed masterpiece without having to spring for cable.









He's all that I've ever wanted. We're very happy. Thank you...

27! Go Yankees!!!!

The last time the city went crazy like this was when Obama won the Presidential Election. There was something in the air then...something exciting....something that brought this city together in a mostly united front. It was exciting and fun to be a part of something so monumental while I was tucked away safely in my apartment--close enough to hear, but far enough away to avoid extremists.

This same "united feeling" seemed to spread like wildfire when the New York Yankees won their 27th World Series Wednesday night. All day people were talking predictions and strategies. When the actual game was on, fans were glued to televisions or radios, in sports bars, on the sidewalk, or in their homes. Once the Yankees were declared victors, people poured into the streets--cheering, hollering, and chanting. They drove by in cars honking their horns and pumping their fists into the night air.

Granted, the NY Yankees winning the series doesn't even come close to the election of a new President of the United States, but what I'm referring to is the united feeling that permeated the city. It was nearly tangible. It's nice when something good brings people together. It's nice when people are happy and friendly with complete strangers.

And so, Yankee fan or not, this team brought this huge and sometimes isolated city together for a brief moment...and what a great moment it was!

Go Yankees!!!!

it's the end of the world as we know it

This morning's conversation with the cab driver as he was unloading my suitcases in front of my apartment building:

Cabbie: Why do you live here?

Me: It's cheap.

Cabbie: If you ever need a cab and you see me around here, you'll know it's the end of the world. I never come here....

Gee, thanks....

love it

i didn't start the fire 2

I don't normally get ready for bed twice in one day, but the other night I had to. The first round was routine. But the second came out of necessity.

I was sitting at my computer ready to shut down for the night when I heard sirens. Yes, quite routine in the city, even more so in my neighborhood, but when they stop right in front of my building, it does cause some concern. So like any normal person stuck on the fifth floor of an old building I ran to the window to confirm that the commotion was indeed right outside my window. RESULT: Yes. They were right outside my window.

One, two, three, and then four fire trucks had all converged on the street below. Sirens wailing, lights flashing, and passers-by all standing on the opposite side. The situation was oddly familiar. If you'll remember the same thing happened a few years ago around the exact same time--October--when my friend Cheri was visiting. She was the one who woke up, heard the sirens, noticed the lights, and decided that she had better wake me. Strange that her whispering my name woke me up rather than the sirens outside.

Now I was faced with a real decision. The last time this happened we didn’t know whether or not we should evacuate. The same dilemma was mine this time too. Instead of dialing 911, however, I ran to get my camera and took a picture.

After I snapped my shot, I decided I should prepare for the worst and got dressed. I debated putting my make up on again. After all, if I couldn’t get back into my apartment for the night (Yes, I’m good at worst case scenarios), then I would have to be out and about until I found a place to stay. I opted to get dressed and skipped the makeup. The next decision--what to take with me?

I considered grabbing my carry on and stuffing it full of things....a change of clothing, my laptop, my purse, my camera, photos....I wondered how long I had. I was pretty sure that I could be very quick. Looking back, I find it funny that even in a questionably unsafe condition, I was more worried about my belongings and the way that I looked than my actual safety.

Anyway, before I had an opportunity to pack a bag, the lights stopped flashing and the firemen packed up and left. I was safe. No need to flee...

But I did have to get ready for bed once again.

i hate late night phone calls

I hate late night phone calls. I mean, in and of themselves, they're not a bad thing. I guess I have just had too many bad experiences with phone calls at random times--times when you shouldn't be getting any.

I was talking to a friend the other day about how I have been conditioned to think that certain calls at certain times from certain people automatically equate something negative. It's not a normal response to think that a family member calling me in the middle of the day is a bad thing. And yet, every time it happens, my heart stops and I say a prayer that everything is OK. Perhaps that speaks more to the type of communication that I have with my family than anything....but maybe it is also indicative of my irrationality in some areas.

Tonight, however, it wasn't an irrational thought and the knots in my stomach were completely justified in the end. My supervisor called me. It was after 10:00pm. He asked me to call him back. His voice was sober. I braced myself for the worst, but you are never prepared. It was just as I had expected. A co-worked had gotten into a serious car accident and was killed. He wasn't just injured, his life was taken.

Even now, a little more than 2 hours later, I am still having a difficult time believing that the phone call was real. It makes me sick to my stomach to think that I won't ever have another interaction with him. It makes me sick to think of his poor family--his wife, his children, his mother, his siblings. It makes me sick to think of how this tragedy will forever change their lives.

Those words "there's been a tragedy" are painfully familiar. My family has experienced death far more often than is fair. Normally experience and the familiarity it brings, makes things easier. But death never gets easier. My reactions are always the same...the gravity of the loss is always intense.

I'm glad that my last interaction with him was a positive one. I think that I even praised him and profusely thanked him for something that he had done for me. I am grateful to know that there is life after death, that this is not the end. He was a good man and his influence will be felt, I'm sure, for years and years to come.

Clark, you will be missed...

Children see. Children Do.

this is why i do what i do....

these are a few of my favorite things...

• the smell of soap, cologne, and rain
  
• sleep, cold room, warm fuzzy blankets piled on high
  
• Indian & Thai Food
• brutal massages
• traveling & staying in hotels
• keyboard shortcuts
• planning & executing a perfectly-timed & tasty dinner
• laughing & people that make me laugh
  
• music
• spring flowers & spring weather
• fall clothing & fall weather
• when little kids laugh uncontrollably
• people with passion
• making others happy
• movies and documentaries
• soup and appetizer parties
• fancy drinks
  
• men :)
  

$175? no problem.

You know, despite the fact that I have lived in New York City for over six years, I find it amusing that I am still quite literally taken aback by the amount of money that people spend on clothing and other little "luxuries/necessities" (the exact term used is completely dependent upon who is using it). Yes, I like nice things just as much as anyone else out there. In fact, to my dismay, whenever I am window shopping, browsing through a catalog or actually looking for something that I need, my personal tastes usually drift towards the expensive side of the spectrum. I know, it shouldn't be a problem for this (insert sarcasm) "high rolling" social worker, but I do have a problem with it. At least my wallet has a problem with it so I usually make a compromise instead.

Tonight I got home and an Ann Taylor advertisement was waiting for me patiently in my mailbox. I opened the tri-fold to see if there was anything interesting. My eyes immediately went to these great looking pair of shoes. Next my eyes were drawn to the price... $175! I'm sorry, but I am NOT spending $175 on shoes. I don't care how cute they are or what they will match or if Mr. Fancy-Pants Shoe Designer made them. $175 on shoes is too much for me.

The scary thing is, compared to other stores on 5th Avenue, Ann Taylor is probably seen as one of the lower end clothing stores. (I mean, sometimes even I can afford the sale rack.) So I started to think about NYC shoppers and realized that if people were willing to pay $95 for a young Hollywood, linen scarf that had a "love quote" attached to it with a piece of string and safety pin, then they are also probably willing to pay that measly $175 for a pair of shoes....and yes, well beyond that price for others. (p.s. I have one of these scarves...BUT I got it at a charity auction. i still love it though.)

I guess I'd like to think that if I ever came into exorbitant amounts of money, that I would still be a wise shopper, that I could maintain my taste for finer things but still be reasonable about it. Anyway, if anyone is interested in helping me to test my theory, I'm totally up for enjoying a larger cash flow. Just have your people contact my people.

dear fall, please stay. love, malia

I don't know what it is about Fall, but for me, it is magic, romance and possibilities all rolled up into one. OK, maybe not romance at this point in my life, but Fall would be a perfect time for it and well, here's to hoping! I'm always hoping.

For the last few weeks, New York has enjoyed some "unusual" weather. In my opinion, it has been beautiful. To others, it has been the cause of much strife and my declarations of love have generated strange glances in my direction. They see Fall as the ending of a glorious, hot summer--the death of fun. I see it as sweet relief from a hot, humid, sweaty mess, and oh, the possibilities! Here's just a few of the things that I can't quite wait for:

cool breezes * sweaters & scarves * hot chocolate * sleeping with the window wide open * sleeping with covers again * leaves changing colors * outside not being as hot as the subway platform * pumpkin carving * apple picking * fabulous birthdays for fabulous people * fall clothing * fall colors * road trips, please * back to school * football & basketball with friends * not sweating my face off * taking walks * daylight savings (gotta love that extra hour) * crisp nights * fall foods....

Even now, trying to list all that I love about Fall doesn't do it justice. I can't quite put into words the excited, happy feeling I get when I picture this beautiful season. Oh pretty please, will you stay awhile? It would be a sweet reward after living here through yet another summer. I know, I know, it wasn't "that bad"....says you....

can i get an amen?

My commute, from start to finish is a little less than an hour--depending on the train traffic and just how late I might leave the apartment. To pass the time and to satiate my need to always be doing something productive, I listen to podcasts in the morning and on the return trip home. When my brain can't handle any more learning, I'll switch over to my music. Typically, I will listen to a past General Conference talk in the morning and something a little more secular later in the day.

Yesterday, was no different....well, almost.

It was rush hour. The train was packed and I was, as usual, surrounded by throngs of commuting strangers. Per my routine, I clicked on a talk that I hadn't listened to in a while. Apparently, I was completely engrossed because before I knew it, he closed with the typical "Amen" and I followed suit.

"Amen," I uttered aloud. Now, I didn't whisper. I used a normal talking voice. Yep...

Immediately, the four other people that I was sharing the pole with jerked their heads around and looked at me...very strangely. Now, I don't get usually get embarrassed. If something "embarrassing" happens to me, I am usually the first one to laugh at myself. I find it funny, not embarrassing. But this time, I was embarrassed. Not that it should matter but I didn't want these people thinking that I was some sort of religious nut preparing to start a sermon of some sort.

However, despite my being embarrassed, I couldn't stop laughing at myself. I mean, it is funny. But I was dying to get off the train. Luckily, I only had one more stop before I switched to the R/W line and found sweet, heavenly relief.

BE happy

So I just checked a friend's blog and found this little diddy. If anyone had the right to be grumpy, little Anne Frank was certainly one of them. I'm not yet cured of the grumpies, but I think a little dose of reality such as this sure does help. There is a lot of beauty in the world and I can decide to BE happy. We'll see how it goes.

a serious case of the grumpies

As a child, did you ever get sent to your room? You know, the "go to your room for the rest of the night to think about what you did and don't come out until you feel sorry and will be nice again" type of sent to your room? For the most part I was a good kid. At least I thought I was and being sent to my room really only occurred when I would 1) fight with my brother or 2) when I got a "little" too competitive when playing board/card games as a family or 3) when I would talk back to my parents or 4) ....well, kids are kids, right?

Anyway, for the last two days I have had a serious case of the grumpies and wish that someone would have told me to go to my room and not come out until I can be nice again. Being a child and being subject to the will of a parent sometimes has its advantages. Adulthood, on the other hand, doesn't always lend itself to the luxury of "time outs" or "do-overs" and so I have to get over this on my own. I don't remember the last time I have been in a mood like this, but I sure don't like it.

I've snapped at co-workers. The smallest things annoy me. I hate the ran. I hate the heat. I hate my apartment. I miss my family. It's too expensive here. Why am I poor? I don't know what I'm doing with my life. I've even given attitude to complete strangers.

Case in point--Yesterday, as I was walking down the subway stairs a nice man was walking up them. It seemed as if he was putting his Metrocard back into his wallet. Instead, it fell to the ground behind him. He didn't notice. I got his attention and the conversation went like this:

Nice Me: "Oh, you dropped your Metrocard."

Nice Man: "Oh, it didn't have anything on it. Thanks anyway." He smiled appreciatively.

Mean Me: (with definite tone) "Oh....you littered." And I continued on my way. I didn't even pick up the dang card.

What is wrong with me? Call it what you want, but I think am a little burned out. No excuse, I know, but I think that's what it really is and I eagerly await a recharge in whatever form it decides to come. I'm hoping that a good dose of church and really amazing people will be just what the doctor ordered. If that doesn't work, I am sending myself home straightaway until I can be nicer...or at least until Monday morning comes and I have to be an adult and go to work again.

there's no place like home...

there's no place like home....enough said.

oh boston--July 4, 2009

I know that this is a little late, but this is what I did over Independence Day. I went to Boston with some of my really good, darling friends: Jane, Liz, and Karen. I love these girls! We had a blast.

oh, who are the people in your neighborhood

Oh, who are the people in your neighborhood,
In your neighborhood,
In your neighborhood?

Oh, who are the people in your neighborhood?
They're the people that you meet
When you're walking down the street
They're the people that you meet...each day!!!

This little guy's picture has been around the neighborhood for quite some time now. The reward is up to $12000!!! Yay! Hopefully, I find him. Actually, no. He's wanted for sexual assault at knife point in an elevator around 148th Street. Yeah, that's were I live....Maybe I'll start taking the stairs. Oh wait, the cops said never to take the stairs...

They're the people that you meet
When you're walking down the street
They're the people that you meet...each day!!!

cheese

My friend Adam is always teasing me about my impractical “healthy” eating habits. Every time he would come to my home he would inevitably find in the refrigerator something low-fat or fat free. From his exaggerated reactions to these items, you would have thought that I had insulted his very being. (Perhaps I did. :) ) Naturally, the teasing worsened when Lent rolled around and I decided to give up processed foods. The two allowances I made were whole grain bread (I wasn’t about to start paying $5 for a loaf) and milk (I go through about a gallon a week--at least). Other than that, most everything I ate was whole, natural, unrefined, and made from scratch. Talk about difficult and time consuming. Sometimes it would take me so long to figure out what I could actually eat that I wasn’t hungry by the time I had come up with food options. It was trying, to say the least, but it got me thinking about the way that our society views and consumes food. I also started reading labels and figuring out exactly what I am putting into my body. It’s pretty shocking to see what types of ingredients we are consuming without even blinking an eye.

The other day, I was in a rush to get some grocery shopping done and mistakenly picked up some low fat mozzarella cheese. I wanted to make a Caprese Salad with some tomatoes that I had picked up from the Farmer’s Market. When I got home, I realized my folly but wasn’t about to waste my $6 purchase. I made my beautiful, little salad, cut my first piece and took a bite. It was disgusting. The tomato and basil were divine, but that cheese did NOT hit the spot. I started to laugh because I thought of Adam and could hear him saying something to the effect of “See! I told you so!”

I find it interesting that I am in more in agreement with Adam at this point in relation to “fat free” or “low fat” foods. They don’t taste very good and they don’t use real ingredients. I much prefer a little bit of real butter or cream as opposed to something chemically engineered. Lent has come and gone and I have definitely not been as regimented as I was before, but I am still reading labels, still studying up on food and nutrition, and still watching what I am actually putting into my mouth. Now I’m not going to get into the debate between Organic vs. Conventional Foods here, rather, I just wanted to say, Adam, in this instance, you were right...despite the fact that you love processed Kraft Singles.

born to notice

"Born to Notice"

For the past week or so I have been walking around the city, happily greeted by some great Gap ads from their new "Born to Fit" campaign. I don't really shop at Gap (gasp), nor will I really start (double gasp) but I sure do appreciate their ads. They've certainly caught my attention...
I mean, I want this man...er...to buy these jeans...


I prefer the man in the middle, rather, the jeans in the middle. The ones that are paired with the denim jacket. The model seems to wear them very well. Below is a better shot of the jeans. Again, my favorite "jeans" are the ones on the right. I searched for a good 30 minutes for his solo ad but apparently the search engines of the world had it in for me tonight and did not let me find him and his sexy pose...again, I mean, those fabulous jeans that he is wearing.

But I have to hand it to Gap. They definitely, definitely know how to catch my attention. Here's one of my all time favorites featuring Scott Speedman. When I first moved to New York, vendors often sold Gap ads on the street. One night I was walking home from something and I passed Columbia. A vendor was selling this particular ad. Now it wasn't a small, phone booth sized ad. It was a store front window sized ad. For some reason (sheer stupidity), I didn't buy it and for weeks after, I stopped at every vendor trying to find it. But no such luck, I completely struck out on this Scott Speedman specialty. Talk about a once in a life time deal!


Here's another ad that stopped me dead in my tracks. Literally. But it was after I ran into the corner of street kiosk in front of a Gap store. Can you blame me? Who doesn't love a little John Krasinski?


Bless you, Gap for producing some amazing ads....and clothing that a lot of people like to wear too.

i like plants and cats...do you?

KEY:

plain font = stalker
italics = stalked (a.k.a. Malia)
bold = rescuer

A couple of weeks ago, I went to my friend's house to retrieve my plant that she had been babysitting for me while I was in Utah. It was late and as usual the trains were infrequent and weren't running as quickly as they do during the day. It was hot, humid, and I was tired. With plant in hand, I boarded the train. There were a few empty seat but I didn't feel like sitting down so I made my way to the middle of the train. A man near the door motioned for me to come and sit next to him. To be honest, it looked a little squishy, he looked a little scary, and I was too hot to even think about being that close to someone...let alone a complete stranger.

I politely declined and pretended to be caught up in my thoughts and slowly turned so that I wasn't facing him. A few moments passed and he moved to the opposite side of the car so that he was facing me once again. Another few minutes passed and he motioned for me to come over to him. I shook my head. He motioned to me once more. I smiled and said no. By now people were watching our exchange. At this point, he said, "Come on. Be polite." So, not wanting to seem like the subway grouch, I slowly made my way over to him. He then motioned for me to sit down while he stood up. I could smell the alcohol on his breath. I told him no and that I was completely content to be standing. He then began to chastise me, "I'm trying to be a gentleman. You should try to be a lady."

Really? Did you just say that to me? I determined to absolutely NOT sit down at this point.

"No," I said firmly. "I am fine." And I moved away from him closer to another man on the subway who was watching us intently. (He was super cute, by the way, and I was wishing that HE was the one engaging me in conversation instead of this drunk, stalker man. He was tall, had dark hair, rippling muscles and a friendly face. He wore a green shirt, black shorts, and was carrying a gym bag. He smiled at me as I moved closer to him. I will call him Alex....but I digress.) Stalker man then started to whip out his "womanizing" tricks while slowly inching towards me:

"So you like plants?"
(I did my best to stifle a laugh.) "Yeah."
"I like plants. Do you know what kind that is? It looks like it would grow big if it was outside."
" Maybe. I don't know what kind this is. A friend gave it to me."
"Yeah, I like plants....and cats. I really like cats. Do you like cats?"
(Now I do like cats, but I didn't want him to find another commonality between us...I mean after plants and cats surely dating and marriage would follow, right? But I didn't lie.) "Yes, I like cats." (I took a step back.)
"Yeah, I had a cat once but when my ex kicked me out she kept the cat and then later kicked the cat out." (He stepped closer.)
(Sad.) "I'm sorry. That's not very nice."
"Yeah, I really miss that cat. But I like cats and plants."
"OK."

Now take note that everyone, and I repeat EVERYONE in the train car was watching us and the awkwardness that was uniquely ours. What was really bothering me though, was that my stop was coming up soon and he was still on the train. I was starting to worry that we would both get off at the same time and that he would follow me home. Alternate plans started to float around in my head and I found myself hoping that police would be canvasing the area like they normally do when I got out. He continued to try to chat but most of his speech was slurred or too quiet to hear. I wasn't about to get closer to better understand him.

"Well this is my stop." (Thankfully, it was the one right before mine.)
"OK, bye."
"I would ask for your name, but I probably won't see you again?"
"Yep, no. Probably not. No need. Goodnight. Nice to meet you."

He reached for my hand and for some reason I gave it to him. It was a weak shake...the ending of a weak pick-up. I breathed sigh of relief as he got off and the tension in the car started to melt.

I looked over at Alex and we exchanged knowing glances.

"I'm sorry! I couldn't think of anything to say. I was racking my brain, trying to think of reasons to interrupt your conversation with him. You know, something like, 'So what are we going to have for dinner tonight?' But you know."
"Aw, thanks. Yeah, I was afraid that he was going to get off at my stop."
"Yeah, me too. I would have done something though. Don't worry. I was totally with you."

We chatted for a few minutes and I found myself wishing that HE would follow me home, but no such luck. I had to smile though, as I walked back home. New York unites people. We're all struggling through the heat, we all have to ride the crowded subway cars, we all deal with crazies. We all have to carry groceries, run for the elevator, and all of these things and a million others bring us together to the point that a complete stranger is willing to change his travel plans so that he can help out a complete stranger who needs an escort home. New Yorkers get a bad rap sometimes. But I have to say that it is completely unfair. I have been privy to more acts of kindness, generosity, and unity than I can count. Granted every group of people has its grumpies and those that are just plain inconsiderate, but for the most part, New Yorkers are willing to be a part of a team and I love it.

Just like my handsome "almost, but completely willing" rescuer, Alex.

more ovaltine, please

More Ovaltine, Please...

The other night a friend said the word, "Ovaltine" and I haven't been able to stop thinking about it. I should probably just buy some so that I can get rid of this nagging craving. For some reason I am always surprised when people know about Ovaltine. In my head, it's something top secret. I feel like it's something that only I had when I grew up...a special treat that was passed down from generation to generation. It is sacred, associated with a happy childhood.

But that's not the case. Ovaltine is actually distributed nationwide and many, many people have tasted of its goodness. Just so you know.

The nice thing about it, though, is that it does remind me of my childhood...mostly my Mom. She was, after all, the one who first introduced it to me. She would tell me stories of how she and her Father would sometimes have Ovaltine together as a "night cap" and naturally, I would look forward to those times when I got to do the same...with both her and my Grandfather.

I also remember, very distinctly the night that I had my first Ovaltine malt. I remember the texture. It was perfect. Not too thick, not too thin. I drank it with a bendy straw. The taste was a perfect blend of Ovaltine and extra malt. One didn't overpower the other. I thought that my Mother had created a masterpiece, something that the world, once they found out about it, would clamor to have. In the end, she didn't go public with the recipe but it was probably for the best. Our apartment was too small to accommodate long lines of raging fans.

Other times, I remember sneaking into the kitchen, (after I had brushed my teeth, of course) grabbing a spoon, walking over to the can of Ovaltine and taking out a heaping spoonful (because that's what the directions said to do), making sure that I scooped out the largest little nuggets of heaven because they popped just right in my mouth. I would hold the spoon steady and let my tongue press against the tip of the Ovaltine heap so that the top of my tongue would be covered. I would let that dissolve and then do it again and again until my spoonful was gone. Sometimes I would go back for more. Other times, it was too risky. But every time I was satisfied. Had I known that Ovaltine was "rich in essential vitamins and minerals", I might not have felt so guilty. It would have been more like I was doing my Mom a favor...

This craving, I'm sure will pass. It will go as quickly as it came. But I sure am glad that those nostalgic memories are here to stay.

ode to the trader...ode to the joe

So today during my lunch break I decided to venture to 14th and 3rd. Now if you are familiar with that area, you know the Mecca of which I speak. Now when I say Mecca, I mean it. It has been the destination of many, a destination that I didn't quite understand until just recently. Ok for those of you who don't know, I speak of...

Trader Joe's

As I've started to explore the art of Raw Eating and have attempted to incorporate much of that healthy lifestyle into my life (Attempted=had Ben & Jerry's tonight with some fabulous friends. Don't judge.) I've come to appreciate grocery stores that carry products and produce that are organic, local, and that use as little processing as possible--you know, natural, food that is actually food and not humanly engineered into food.

Now, those of you who do the same thing also know that this can get really expensive, and despite being a high-rollin', fabulously paid social worker (enter sarcasm), I can't really afford to eat completely organic, local, or natural. While I try my best, there is only so much that I can do.

So the fabulous thing about Trader Joe's is that it is super cheap! Instead of spending $40 on a bag of groceries, I only spent about $20. Now that's savings. Granted, it doesn't have everything and it is a schlep, but I think that I'm going to brave the distance, the sore shoulders (because of the grocery hauling), and yes, even the long lines...at least sometimes. :)

P.S. While I'm declaring my love for stores, I do have to give a hearty shout-out to Whole Foods. Can I just say that I am in love with that store? I can wander around for hours, reading labels, dreaming up food combinations, trying to figure out how to make certain products myself, and marveling at the types of products that the health world comes up with. In my heart, it has become akin to Bed, Bath & Beyond (#1 fave) and Barnes & Noble (#2). Shouldn't I get some sort of kickback for all of this advertising??? And why didn't I blog about Whole Foods? I don't know. I guess it's because I got raw almond butter for $4.99. :)

what the?

So I got home today and my bed looked like this...




And I thought, "What the...?"


Then I remembered that I did it and started to clean straightaway. All better.

can you become?

Dear Sally,

I don't even remember how or when I started, but all I know is that I did and I have loved it ever since.

Felicity, a four year drama series following the life of a shy, yet beautiful college student begins on the day of her high school graduation. Uninspired by her parents' mapped-out life plan for her, Felicity decides to follow her secret crush and moves across the country to follow him...someone she didn't even really know.

As the series unfolds, the typical college-age drama ensues and followers of Felicity come to love and sometimes hate all of the characters at one time or another.

I recently purchased all four seasons of Felicity while I was back in Utah. Just tonight I opened Season One and popped in the first dvd. And it all came rushing back to me...

I couldn't help but smile and feel that swell of emotions that come with following an overemotional drama-laden co-ed for a good four years. I smiled as I got my first glance of Ben Covington (Scott Speedman) and was reminded of his sweet moments, the way he kisses, and of just how much I like the rugged look and his sexy grin. I melted when we were first introduced to cute Noel (Scott Foley) and how he patiently deals with Felicity's never-ending, selfish freak-out moments. I was still torn just as I was before, as the love triangle unfolded and couldn't help but sympathize with the one who was left out. I was embarrassed by all of the awkward moments that Felicity's need for honestly always brought on. I was envious of the "Dear Sally" recordings and loved how each character began to weave himself into this elaborate pattern that we call the show.

But most of all, I remembered that Felicity (the show) housed the beginnings of my soul encompassing love and passion for New York City. It made the city look sexy, fun, and full of opportunity and beautiful adventures. Sigh....If only real life came with a script and two hunks vying for my attention...

Talk soon.

Love,

Malia

P.S. Did I mention the music? Check this out!

it's a boy!

It's a boy!!!


Please welcome with love...

Mac



July 29, 2009
5.5 lbs
15 inches

the need for speed

So I kind of like speeding....a lot.

Oh, and I saw this car today! So beautiful. (Mustang 2009--the orange one)




And I really wish I had this one. (Chevelle 1969)



I miss driving.

The End.

thunder, thunder, thunder, thundercats….ho!

thunder, thunder, thunder, thundercats….ho!

Some of my earliest and fondest memories are of watching Saturday morning cartoons with my brother. I remember strategically waking up early enough to ensure that we caught all of the shows that we wanted to see that day. It was fun to plant ourselves in front of the TV with snacks in hand for those early morning episodes of fun and yes, childhood suspense.

We loved most cartoons and the variety ranged from The Smurfs, Looney Tunes, Jem (one of my favorites, not James’), GI Joe, He-Man, Transformers, etc. But one of our all time favorites had to be Thundercats. I don’t know what it was with those fierce felines, but we loved them. I might have even had a crush on Lion-O…and Tygra…

Anyway, a few weeks ago, I was down at Wall Street participating in a Volunteer Fair at Morgan Stanley. I was walking back to the train when I came upon a street vendor selling DVD’s. They looked new and were in their original packaging. The familiar Thundercats symbol popped out at me and I knew I had to buy it. I bought one for me and one for my brother.

For the last few days, James and I have once again, planted ourselves in front of the TV and watched episodes of Thundercats. Once again, we arm ourselves with snacks and blankets and enjoy as the now simpler plots unfold. We started with the pilot episodes and it was interesting to put things into their original context. We never really worried much about the beginnings when we were little. I don’t think that we were paying that much attention. But it’s been fun to stroll down memory lane once again. OH! And we finally learned the lyrics to the theme song. Not so complicated all these years later.

For your singing pleasure: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Na8ThDftsKk

Thunder, thunder, thundercats, Ho!
Thundercats are on the move,
Thundercats are loose,
Feel the magic, hear the Roar,
Thundercats are loose,

Thunder, thunder, thunder, Thundercats!
Thunder, thunder, thunder, Thundercats!
Thunder, thunder, thunder, Thundercats!
Thunder, thunder, thunder, Thundercats! Thundercats!

giddy as a school girl

Chelsea Market, 4:00pm.

I paused as I approached the entrance of the building to make sure that I looked presentable. Through the glass doors in front of me, the infamous logo caught my eye amidst a sea of others. Despite my attempt to refrain from smiling, a grin escaped anyhow. I opened the doors and made my way towards the back of the building, just as directed—pass the waterfall, the café, and then turn left down a hallway, take the elevator. I had arrived…The Food Network!

One of the perks to my job is that I get to meet a lot of amazing people who work at some really great corporations. Someone from Scripps Network (parent company of The Food Network) approached me about hosting a Career Day for some of our youth. While discussing details I was invited to take a tour of the studios (the same one that the kids would take) and then further discuss the upcoming event. Naturally, I had to go…I mean, walk-throughs are standard in this business. ☺

But there couldn’t have been a happier girl alive.

As I waited in the lobby the Tyler Florence show was airing on a large plasma screen TV mounted on the wall. The end tables were stocked with cooking magazines and books and I was envious of even the receptionist as she was surrounded by so much wonderful! A few minutes later, my contact came out to greet me. We chatted for a bit and then started the glorious tour. I was literally giddy as we went from room to room as I recognized Bobby Flay’s Throwdown test kitchen, as I watched them edit a Rachel Ray’s 30 Minute Meals episode, and was privy to a preview of an upcoming promo commercial for Food Network Challenge. I wanted to quit my job and run away to culinary school. But I about flipped my lid when I walked into the main studio and realized that I was in Iron Chef America’s Kitchen Stadium!!!!!

I know, I know, big deal, right? YES, it was a BIG DEAL! Iron Chef is my FAVORITE show in the whole world! I could watch that show for hours and hours and be perfectly content. And if it’s Iron Chef Bobby Flay?...Be still my beating heart. (It’s probably the #1 reason that I wish I had a TV.) As embarrassing as it was, I could barely contain my excitement. I stood where Alton Brown gives his commentary, I saw where the judges sit during the show, and where the competitor enters bathed in glowing lights. I saw the two fully stocked kitchens, the 20+ cameras overhead that capture every angle, and I saw the gigantic secret ingredient box marked with its signature knives that form an X. It took everything I had to not whip out my camera and have my “tour guide” take my picture. But I refrained as the place was bustling with producers, technicians, and other stage crew.

We concluded the tour shortly thereafter. I asked my questions “for the kids” and I got in a lot of my own. But after it was all said and done, I couldn’t stop smiling and was giddy for the rest of the day. The only thing that could have made it better would have been to attend a live taping (not a possibility for Iron Chef)…or running into Bobby Flay, of course.

happy father's day!

It's been nine years since I have bought my Dad a Father's Day gift. It seems weird to me that it has been so long. Usually around this time of year I lay low and do my best to treat this Sunday as I would any other Sunday, as a protective measure. But for some reason I'm a little more open and as a result, a little more emotional than I would like to admit today. Sitting here, alone in my apartment has given me considerable time to reflect upon life and what I value as important. And aside from the Gospel, my family (which is central to the Gospel Plan) is the most important thing in the world to me.

I miss my Father...very much. I miss having him around and knowing that he would be home whenever I returned. I miss his silly jokes that he thought were hilarious. I miss hearing his beautiful singing voice at 3:00 in the morning. I miss how excited he would get on payday when he could take all of us out for dinner. I miss his love and passion for the Polynesian culture and I miss that same love and passion that he had for the Gospel. He was the kind of man that would reach out to his home teaching families several times a month. He was the kind of man that would make a whole bunch of extra food so that he could deliver meals to families that needed them. He was the kind of man that would call old friends out of the blue just to let them know that he was thinking of them. He was the kind of man that taught me that service isn't always convenient but that you do it anyway. No questions. No complaints.

And so, I miss him.

But I have decided that just because he isn't around anymore, it doesn't mean that I can't get him a gift. Now don't worry, I'm not delusional. I don't think that there is some special courier that can carry an item from this life into the next, but I do think that I can do something in honor of this great man--a different kind of gift. So from here on out, I will revisit the idea of a "gift" on Father's Day. I will do something or change something in my life that can show him that I love and honor him despite the distance. I just won't have to wrap it.

And so, Dad, after much thought, I think that this year's gift from me to you, will be my adoption of one of your mantras--"Service is never convenient, but you do it anyway. It's not for you. It's for others." The funny thing about this gift is that I think that ultimately it will bless me more than it will bless him or anyone that I choose to serve. Isn't that always how it works though?

Ayway, I miss you dad. I love you and I will love you forever and ever. Happy Father's Day!

free agency vs. the nba playoffs

So my mom is a huge basketball fan. Whenever there is a game on, you can be sure that she is watching...especially if it is the Utah Jazz. Playoff games, however, also draw her attention.

Last night I was chatting with her and of course, the Lakers vs. Orlando Magic game was on. It was the 2nd game of the Series. The Lakers were up by a small margin and then my mom said one of the funniest things ever in reference to the Lakers and making them mess up (We HATE the Lakers):

"I know that we fought over free agency, but sometimes I wish we could make people do things."

Translation: Yes, we fought over free agency in Heaven, but if she could she would probably "force" (in a voodoo sort of way) the Lakers to mess up badly enough that they would lose.

I thought it was hilarious and loved that she would even say that.

I love you, Mom! Thanks for always making me laugh!!!

i am not your consolation prize. goodbye.

So I finally saw "When Harry Met Sally".

DAMN that Friend Zone...DAMN THAT FRIEND ZONE!!!

And so as the story goes..."I am not your consolation prize.  Goodbye."

i can't help myself

I can't help myself....



Nigel Barker


Jay Manuel

...but i just have the biggest crush on these two men:

Nigel Barker (first photo) and Jay Manuel (second photo)

Both are on America's Next Top Model--a reality show that I am strangely addicted to. I say strangely addicted because

1) I hate reality TV

2) I always made fun of this show but my friend Jeff was watching an ANTM marathon one day when I came to visit him. I was making fun of him and the show for about the first 20 minutes and then I was totally sucked in. I was fascinated that these models looked like normal people without makeup and getting their hair did. :) (save the fact that they are all skinny minis and that models that are a size 2 are considered on the heavier side)

3) I don't really HAVE to watch it all the time. If I miss an episode it's not the end of the world

4) It's not really the show that I like, but rather the transformations at the photo shoots. It's amazing what make up and stylists can do.

Anyway, aside from the photo shoots, my favorite parts of the show are Jay and Nigel. Yes, Jay is not into girls, but I adore him. He is so good at what he does and is just plain awesome. I have the biggest crush on him!!! When he comes on screen I am screaming and clapping (in my heart) just like those silly 19 year old model wannabes. And Nigel, oh sweet Nigel...well, just look at him. He is incredibly sexy. Seriously, I can't get enough of him. He too, is super talented. He is a noted fashion photographer and a judge on the show. And to top it all off, he has a fabulous English accent. How hot is that?

Anyway, I love them. The end.

oh to be rich!!!

Oh to be rich!

There are very few instances wherein you get paid to do something that is completely enjoyable. (Don’t think about that too hard.) But for me, the other night was one such occasion.

For work I was asked to help out with a charity event. But this was not just any charity event—it was a bachelor auction. :) My evening was full of 20 handsome, charming, and eligible bachelors. Needless to say, I was in HEAVEN. I am still giddy just thinking about it. Fortunately for me, my primary role was to check-out…I mean, check-in the bachelors and then to work with them throughout the evening and to ensure that they connected with their dates. As such, it forced me to be in close proximity to a few of them several times throughout the evening. And these particular gentlemen were my favorite, so I was not complaining in the slightest.

A few things that I loved about the event:

1) THE MEN—duh! Not only were they beautiful, successful, and donating their time to charity, but also, they were very sweet. Some of them had fabulous English or French accents, some of them kept me laughing the whole time, some of them were refreshingly forward and invited me to go upstairs to the bar after the event was over, etc. I was happy.

2) As part of the check in process I had to get their contact information and then pin a rose on their lapel. This required close talking and a lot of touching.

3) Flirting galore—these bachelors were so fun and easy to flirt with. I’m sure that they were just as flirty with lots of other women there but I was still loving my life. Who doesn’t love it when men stare deeply into your eyes and flash you an endless smile, stand close to you, put their arm around you, pull you closer to them so that they can hear you better, call you darling in an English accent, and then engage in playful banter?

4) Goodnight kisses—need I say more?

And so I end where I began--Oh, how I wish I were rich! I would have bid on at least four of them. At one point, I even started to consider what I could sacrifice during a month if I laid out several hundred dollars for one of them. Clearly, I didn’t make a bid, but boy did I want to! I guess I should start saving my money or I should have asked for a non-profit discount. :)

wolverine!!!

Last night I went to X-Men Origins: Wolverine. All I can say is WOWIE! :) I was loving my life. Not only do I LOVE comic book movies--especially the X-Men series--but also, I was with my family, my friend Eric and his family, AND well....look at the pictures below.

Publish Post