November 23, 2010

I am thankful for families.  You can't choose to whom you're related, but it builds character.  :) My Mom is visiting from California this week, to spend Thanksgiving with me.  She's only been here two days, but we're having a good time.  Tomorrow and Thursday I have all day off, and we'll go around buying Christmas presents, looking at furniture, eating at my favorite burger place, and maybe seeing a movie or going to the Cider Mill.  All Fall-esque sorts of things! 

My Dad and stepmom will be here in a few weeks, right before Christmas for about a week.  It'll be fun to see them too!  We have a brewery tour planned, as well as a few awesome dinners out.  :)  After that, I'll fly to CA to see my Aunt, Uncle and Mom for a week, and then off to the East Coast to play a show with some friends. 

Anyways, families are forever, and I'm am very thankful for mine.  :)

November 21, 2010

I am especially thankful for Susie and Duke tonight!  :)  I have many lovely friends, and I'm sure I'll be naming several of them in the upcoming days.  Tonight, after the concert we had dinner plans and went to an awesome El Salvadorian place.  Afterwards, we went to 12 Baltimore for drinks (and met Mark Grace!!).  I stayed longer than I planned because I was having a great time, but I had to leave to clean up the guest room for my Mom who is arriving tomorrow.  BUT!!! Susie and Duke came back with me to my apartment, with a bottle of wine, and chatted with me as I cleaned up the apartment!  Who DOES that?  Great friends, that's who.  I didn't want to stop hanging out, and they were so sweet to hang out with me until after midnight! 

AND.  They left a glass of wine in the bottle.  Love.  Them.

November 19, 2010

"In the end, only kindness matters."

I need to be more kind to people.  I realized this last night.  I was babysitting this wonderful three year old.  We were having a great evening, and things were running quite smoothly (I attribute this to her great attitude, AND to the fact we were having pizza, candy and movie night.).  She hadn't gone to the bathroom all day, and despite being potty trained, had a HUGE accident.  We're talking, soaking of ALL layers of clothing, a towel, a rug, and having to run a bath to make sure we were all clean, big accident.  She knew she had done something wrong, and I knew I could have been upset, but there were no feelings of anger or frustration, only sympathy.  I gave her a hug and a kiss, peeled her out of the clothes, grabbed some bath toys and continued bedtime as usual.  Even when I have to say no 15 times, finally take something away from a child, and screams fill the air, no anger or ire fills me.  However, if the same situation, or something much less frustrating happens with an adult, I instantly get REALLY incensed and lippy.  Why is it that I assume adults can be more perfect than a child?  In some instances, of course, but in life in general? 

So, today, I am thankful for the gift of kindness, and the hope that I can remember to be more kind to others.

November 15-16, 2010

November 15th

I am thankful for pilots.  We are commonly thankful for doctors and other professionals who are present in saving lives or being careful with them.  Pilots are navigating a steel missile hurling through the air at 500 mph with hundreds of people aboard.  We hear about plane crashes, but rarely realize how few and far between these really are, and how safe flying actually is.  (I say this in all earnest because I'm slightly terrified of flying even though I do it often.)

November 16th

I am thankful for naps.  I was able to take a three hour, uninterrupted nap yesterday on my couch.  It was cool in the apartment, and small rays of sunshine were beaming in.  Lovely.

November 9-14, 2010

So I guess I've missed a whole week in my life.  I literally came on and thought that it was the 11th, and that I only had two days to catch up on.  Maybe being sick and going to orchestra rehearsals makes you miss your life?  What?

I'm thankful for so many things.  I am sitting here watching two friends make jewelry and have a great time.  It's a blessing to have friends.   I have seen so many friends who I haven't seen since the summer this trip back to the East Coast.  Playing in the orchestra here has been so much fun!  Sometimes we forget how much fun it actually CAN be! :)

I am thankful for having a job that pays the bills and that allows me time to go see my aforementioned friends.  We get to play with great soloists and live in a nice city.  With so many people struggling and unemployed, I sometimes forget how fortunate I am.

I am thankful that I got to spend a lot of time with my grandparents growing up and that I still have grandparents living.  As a kid, I spent many hours with my maternal grandmother since she lived in the same town, but my parents made a big effort to go visit my paternal grandparents and my stepmom's family as well.  I love them all dearly, and never really know how much until you grow up, or until they aren't there anymore.

November 8, 2010

I am thankful for animals.  I am staying at a house with the cutest little dog.  Dogs are always happy, no matter what happens in their life.  They live in the moment, and find joy in the smallest things.   Every time you come home, no matter how long it has been, it is the happiest moment in their life.  Even playing with a sock is joyful!  I had the best dog in the whole world for 15 years.  I miss her terribly every day.  She was my absolute best friend, and knew everything we were thinking.  God created perfection by creating animals.

November 7, 2010

I am thankful for modern medicine.  How COOL is it that you can go to a random place and get stuff that makes fevers decrease, and snot magically disappear from your sinus cavities!!!!  I am fighting a cold at the moment, and without DayQuill, I would be so miserable.  I'm not exactly a happy camper anyhow, but I would be LOST without over the counter medicine.  :)  I'm not going to even embark on the technologies of hospitals and the REAL medicine they can give.

Thankful Project

Many of my friends are doing this 'exercise' as well, and I think it's a great way to bring perspective during the holidays.  :)  I get really caught up in getting the 'perfect' gift for people, scheduling visits with family, and quite often forget to stop for just a moment and breathe.

I've missed the first five days of the project, but it's never too late to start a good thing, right?  I am always thankful for my friends and family, for they ground me, make me laugh and give love. 

Today, I am thankful for electricity.  I was talking with a friend last night about how everything is done with electricity.  Can you imagine life without electricity?  It's such an amazing invention that we take for granted every day!  We don't even think twice about writing an email to keep in contact with friends, having bills paid automatically, or simply picking up the phone to call your family.  Even the smallest act of being able to turn on the side lamp when more light is needed at night is incredible.  I still love writing letters and make a point to send a few cards to people each month, but even the post office uses electricity now!  It may seem like our mail takes the pony express route, but can you imagine how much longer it would actually take if we did use horses and only worked when there was enough sunlight?

"God gave you 86,400 seconds today.  Have you used one to say "Thank You"? ~William Ward

Meatloaf

My meatloaf turned out fantastic, and was even as good the second day.  I made it in a crockpot, assembly was literally 5 minutes and super cheap.  I will never bake it again.  Yay for slowcookers!!!!

Kansas City cannot make up its mind about whether we are still in Summer or merging into Fall.  We are up to 80 degrees again and yesterday we had tornado warnings.  I don't get it, but if it means we are having a mild winter, I'm ok with that.  :)  I really love my fuzzy coats though, so please let me use them soon! :)

Nothing really happened this week out of the ordinary, which is awesome.  Sometimes I love excitement, but I love things to be planned out.  We have had some FABULOUS Happy Hours lately, movie nights, and a trip to a huge corn maze on Saturday afternoon.  Today, Jaime and her kids are coming over for some Wii action, meatloaf and pudding.  :)  I am trying a new recipe in the crockpot, and I'm crossing my fingers that it will all turn out ok.  If not, we're going for burgers.  Hehe.

Also, this stupid entertainment center is STILL in the middle of my living room.  Jaime is bringing over a few hammers and the kids and I are going to take it down, and then take it down to the trash bin.  Hopefully it will work!  After that is gone, I will finally be able to get to my counter and bookshelf!

Before our concert today, I'm dusting and doing dishes.  Folks, it doesn't get much more exciting that this. 

I woke up cold.  Not just the 'oooh, my face is cold' niceness, but 'oh crap, it's FREEZING in here' cold.  I was happy (but cold) because that signals to me that no matter if it is going to be 75 degrees outside, it is still Fall.  (I was beginning to wonder with all the 80+ temps going on!)

The midwest, particularly Kansas City, has a beautiful fall, if not usurped by a late summer/early winter.  We have so many trees and gorgeous parks, it's lovely to walk around.  We have pumpkin patches galore and places to get cider and apples.

And...they say that although it's beautiful, we are only about 1/4 of the way done changing colors!!!  More to come!

Church on Ward Parkway

Downtown street post

Walking downtown

Truman Lake Reservoir

Sharing

I REALLY hate it when you tell someone an idea, or what you are even simply musing over, and they start describing scenarios why it's such a bad idea, or how you haven't thought it over clearly.  And people wonder why I keep things to myself?

On another note, it rained today, and I like that.

Overlooking the city from my living room on nights like tonight make me temporarily forget I live here (and not in a big city).  Insert a subway and I'm on my way to happiness...

When it comes to family, we're all children at heart.  No matter how old we get, we always need a place to call home.  Because without the people you love most, you can't help but feel all alone in the world.

Missing out?

I feel as though I'm missing out on EVERYTHING lately.  It's a completely crazy notion, but it's how I feel. 

It's completely crazy, because I've kept myself so busy lately!  I love having things to do, and recently, it's been one thing after another.  :)  

Yesterday, was my friend Darcy's birthday.   The day started out with a ballet rehearsal.  I normally want to slit my wrists after ballet, but the music is beautiful and I love sitting with Christine.  When we have a full week of ballet, in two weeks, it will be fun!  Susie came over for lunch, and randomly we had ham and cheese sandwiches, apples, and spicy tofu with chili sauce (separate, of course!) with a glass of wine.  Haha.  Weird menu choice, but it was what I had in the fridge.  Then we went on a tour of our new hall.  Y'all, this is the gonna be the BOMB.  We went with other board members, and met some really awesome new people.  Then, the birthday celebration began. 

Jamie (sister-in-law), her kids and I hid out in Darcy's apartment, waiting with a cake to surprise her when she got home from work.  We successfully scared the living daylights out of her, and then took her out for pizza, where her brother and his wife were waiting.  A pepperoni and cheeseburger pizza, cake and a few beers later, we were happy.  We took Darcy back to her house and she and I went over to the Marriott, to meet Autumn, who was here on a business trip.  The three of us had drinks at the bar, and some key lime pie, and after awhile, random NASCAR guys were talking to us.  Autumn retired early, leaving Darcy and I to 'fend' for ourselves (lol!), and we all ended up playing pool and closing down the bar.  It was a lot of fun, and the guys were absolutely hysterically drunk.  Not that I would ever choose to spend a Thursday night with travelling repairmen who work for the racetrack from Michigan, playing pool, spilling Makers Mark, and closing a bar down, but I wouldn't have traded that night for anything.  Who AM I!?!? :) :)

I spent the day with Susie today...got up REALLY late, and left at 1pm (not too far after I woke up) to go shopping and such.  I got some more plant stands, some pillows for my bed and presents for birthdays.  Also, some headbands and 'stuff' at Forever XXI.  We went to Red Lobster (a tradition for us) and had a great day.  Came back right before I had to go to opera.   So fun.

I read what my friends are up to, and I know the dates of birthdays, milestones, etc...and I feel as though I'm missing out!!  I know no one cares, because it's not a real problem...lol...but nevertheless, I do get sad.  So, to all my loved ones that I'm not near...I think about you daily, and wish I were there.   XOXO

FALL

FALL HAS ARRIVED.  (please Mr. Weather, don't make me eat my words!)

Lately, it seems that I am sinking back into a funk.  I don't know what I want, or exactly how to get it, and I don't like feeling out of control.  I haven't been in the happiest of places recently, so I've decided to list why I LOVE FALL.

I LOVE:

-wearing boots and sweaters

-not sweating when I walk outside

-the color burnt orange, burgundy and brown

-watching leaves turn

-buying pumpkins and gourds

-running through corn mazes

-Honeycrisp Apples

-sipping tea and spiced cider

-Pumpkin Spice Lattes

-snuggling in the cool air and warm sunshine

-my new sweater 

Banana Bread

I just made banana bread for the first time!  My loft smells amazing, it tastes incredible, but it looks so odd.  What gives?  :)

Here's the recipe I used:

2 cups flour
2 eggs (beaten)
3/4 c. brown sugar
1/4 tsp salt
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 c. butter
2 1/3 c. overripe, mashed bananas

Cream the butter with the sugar.  Add in the eggs and bananas, mix, and then the dry ingredients.  Be careful not to mix too much or else the bread will get dry and dense.  Also, 2 1/3 c. of mashed bananas are about equal to 6 or 7 bananas. 

Heat oven to 350, and bake for about 60 minutes.  I halved the recipe and baked it for 30 minutes oddly enough.  Came out just right.

A Shakespearian Tragedy

My poor plants.  They really have no chance, now do they?

I have finally gotten a plant stand to place by the window's light, for these poor ferns who I, unfortunately, probably have already sealed their fate in death.  "...to die, to sleep, is that all?..." I'm afraid we have a tragedy on our hands.

Nails

I really enjoy painting my nails.  Some would say that it's not proper for a musician, especially a string player to paint their nails.  For years, I wasn't allowed, and even if I had been, it bothered me to have the extra weight on my fingers.  Yes, I'm that sensitive to my hands.  However, ever since I had braces put back on, (last August 31st, to be exact, but who's counting?) I cannot bite my nails or cuticles anymore.  This does not stop me from picking, let me add, but after about the first month, the urge to stick my dirty hands in my mouth has significantly decreased.  I still do chew on my fingers when I'm nervous, bothered, or intensely concentrating, but in general, I leave my fingers alone.  This is a huge coup for me, since I was the "lets-tear-the-nail-off-past-the-quik" type of person before.  My entire life, actually.  So...thus, I enjoy painting my nails.  :)  My favorite colors are "But I'm Not Really a Waitress" and "Lincoln Park After Dark", both by OPI.

(Ironically, I HATE painting my toenails.  I would say 99% of the time I just get a pedicure.)

And for my grammar conscious friends, the second sentence in the paragraph: Do I put the comma before the ( ) or does it go after?  I know that the period follows, but does the same apply for other punctuation?  Suz?

I'M BAAACK

Ahhhh!  What an amazing summer!  But, I will blog later about that! :)

Today was a day for shoes and lipstick.  :)  I have two FABULOUS new pairs of shoes, and the BEST red lipstick.

Steve Madden 5" platforms

Michelle D. teal shell sandals

Makeup for Forever #21

I saw the fabulous red shade on a salesperson in Sephora about a week ago.  She had the same coloring as I do, and I have been SEARCHING for a great red to complement, not overtake, my face.  It's perfect.  (The new Kat von D lipstick is also amazing.  Practically the same shade.  They happened to be sold out.)  I hadn't been able to quit thinking about it, so I splurged and got it today!  I would recommend this to everyone....especially those of us with fair skin.  :)

Ah, it's been that kind of day.  :)  Love.

Adventures of Pip and Emma: Day 11

It's been awhile since we have caught up with Pippy and Emma, but so much as happened!  :)  I've been able to see so many friends since I've been here, and had a lot of fun!  Ice skating and mall trips with Kayla, dinner at the Perkins', movies, manis and pedis with Liz, hanging out with Katie and getting to reconnect with Jen, Ryan and meet their daughter Clara.  She keeps you on your toes, and is a RIOT!

Pip and Emma have been good doggies, for the most part.  I see more progress than regression...and I think it's just because they are getting used to me.  I'm sure I'm going to jinx myself, I THINK Miss Em isn't going poopy in the house anymore!  :)  It's raining today, so who knows!?  She always surprises me!  She'll come into the room where I'm sitting, and will even come across the room to take a treat from me.  Silly girl will only take the treat in the breakfast room, but hey, the first day, she wouldn't even let me put a leash on her!  She and Pip play and play during the day, and sack out on the cool wood floor for some solid nap times.  Emma is becoming less scared on our walks, and actually will come and ask for a walk now!  I might have spoiled them by taking them every few hours when I'm home, but they are just too cute and LOVE to go outside!

Mr. Pippy is starting to have an attitude that is way bigger than his scrawny little frame.  This little man has won over my heart completely and makes me laugh constantly!  We're working on our leash manners outside.   He's not unruly, but he does like to venture into the street, so we're stopping at all curbs and saying wait.  With time, he'll get it!  And when we're just walking, I say "No Street", and about 50% of the time he'll come away from the curb....haha only 50% though!  :)  He has this little prance that just makes everyone laugh.  Inside the house, he will follow me around just 'making sure' I'm still here.  Pip thinks it's SO funny to attack Emma's tail!  He has started following me into the bathroom and checking up on me.  I try and explain that I need privacy, but his little face just stares at me.  I was SHOCKED yesterday when I woke up and found him upstairs, sitting at my door.  I didn't think he climbed the stairs.  Occasionally, he will paw at my leg...and turn to lead me to what he wants.  Little stinker!  Needless to say, we are becoming fast friends and I hope he'll start taking to the sit and leave it command. :)

Adventures of Pip and Emma: Day 3

Today started off really great!  I came down to Pip barking his head off at 'something' and was worried that I had way overslept my alarm, and that Mitta's son was coming in to get his mail.  Nope, Pippy was just barking.  I'm guess he thought it was fun.

I stumble downstairs to make the cats and dogs their breakfast and clean up.  I think Pip was hungry today because he actually wanted his food.  After not eating for two days, I'd be hungry too!  It's chicken, for crying out loud!  It's good!  Emma as no problem eating.  Clearly.  :)

We go out for walks.  This, they are getting better at.  :)  Pip will let me put his leash on before Emma now, and is very enthusiastic about walking.  Gets really excited and has this little wiggle in his butt.  Emma still cowers and acts like I'm about to kill her, all with her tail wagging.  Emma, you're weird.

The day goes fine, nothing too exciting.  I bought them a 'treat' ball yesterday and Pippy loves it.  He won't play whilst I'm looking, but when he thinks I'm not paying attention, he tears after it.  It's hysterical to watch.  Emma looks on with earnest interest, but doesn't join in.

It rained again, hard, about dinner time.  It started to let up around 6:15, so I took the little buggers out.  Even though it was raining Pippy peed, but darling Emma didn't even want to walk.  She was totally giving me the stink eye the entire time.  And we literally only went to the end of the block and back.  RIGHT as we got back inside, she gets off leash, we have some petting time, I brush them and dry them off, give them a treat and she goes and PEES IN THE CORNER.  I wanted to strangle her.  ARE YOU KIDDING ME?

However, after dinner I did a few chores and ate some dinner myself.  And here's when the news comes in.  EMMA came to get me for the 10pm walk.  EMMA!  She's never left that room to do anything but play with Pip, that I know of!  I was so happy.  But, during the walk she started to limp, and so after she PEED!!!!! I picked her up and carried her the rest of the way.  Coming into the house she was just fine, miraculously though.  That dog.  After the walk, she came to say thank you I think too.  Either that, or she was just checking on me, saying "SUCKA!!".  :)

So, all in all, it was a good day.  I think. :)

Adventures of Pip and Emma: Day 1

I'm in Dallas now, house/plant/dog/cat sitting.  :)  I'm doing it for 3 weeks, for a friend who plays with the symphony.  Her house is lovely, and everything has the potential to present smooth sailing for the upcoming weeks.  However, when animals are involved, rarely, is anything smooth.

My friend left today, around noon, for her trip.  She is first playing with the orchestra in their residency in Colorado, and then going to visit family in Michigan.  She has a very cute house, 1920's tudor (I think), 2 dogs, 5 cats (indoor/outdoor) and a forest of plants.

Let's start with the plants.  This will present a myriad of problems in the next few weeks.  The first problem is the simple fact I kill plants.  I don't try, because I appreciate the clean air and beauty they provide, but they just commit suicide in my mere presence.  I hung on every word and instruction today in earnest hope I don't kill something.  There are trees outside that need watering every other day, pots that need it every day.  I have to attach the soaker hose every three or four days to five different spots.  I go to the neighbors' lawn and pots and water them too.  The houseplants are every five days.  I have written instructions.  I will not kill anything.  I will not kill anything.

As my friend is showing me everything to water, and all the hoses, I get bitten 16 times by mosquitoes.  16.  She doesn't get ONE bite.  *Sigh*  We weren't even out an hour.

Moving on to the cats.  I love animals.  ALL animals.  But, some animals don't love me.  This would include cats.  To clarify, cats LOVE me, because I'm allergic.  They love me way too much.  I love them too...but shouldn't.  I love to pet and cuddle them!  Her cats are indoor/outdoor so they aren't around all the time, and as affectionate as they are, I think some of them sense I'm allergic and I appreciate the fact they don't try and maul my face.  :) 

Next are the pups.  Pip and Emma.  They are the cutest names, and the cutest little faces!  I can hardly stand it!   They are rescues, which I love and applaud, but completely....bless their little hearts....neurotic.  They were both in cages the majority of their lives at a breeder, so I can sympathize with their problems. Somewhat.  :)

Pip is by far the more energetic and curious of the two.  He's a brown and black King Charles Cavalier and as cute as he can be.  Pip is 2.  He's very skinny and gangly.  Emma, however, is the complete opposite of Pip, mostly white.  She's, well, let's just say she has more to love on.  Emma's very afraid of everything, and pretty much stays in a corner of the house the whole day if not outside in the yard, with Pip.

At first, Pip and Emma were very scared of me.  I don't blame them.  I'm pretty scary!  I'm a stranger, and about 4,000 times as large as they are.  I'm downright terrifying.  Their Mom was home at breakfast, but not at afternoon walk time.  We think Pip goes to the bathroom in the backyard (through the doggy door) if need be.  Emma...not so much.  We took them out after breakfast, and w/in an hour, Emma had crapped on the floor.  EMMA!

In the afternoon, I spent about 15 minutes trying to coerce them to let me put their leashes on.  If you corner Emma, she'll let you, because she can't run away.  Neither of them bite.  Then, once Emma had hers on, Pip gathered courage and came to let me leash him up.  I'll be damned if I sit on the floor begging dogs to let me take them out to go to the bathroom when there is a chance she is going to poop on the floor anyways.  But, because I love dogs, I did.....making all those stupid noises and high pitched affirmations of praise.

Pip decided not to eat tonight.  Pip did not want chicken, rice and veggies.  Fine Pip, starve yourself.  I even tried to feed him by hand, and he wasn't having any of it.  Dogs won't starve themselves, so maybe he'll eat breakfast tomorrow.  I'm sure they are both stressed out to have me, and not their Mom, here.  

They both went on their walk very nicely tonight.  We walk very well together finally, but Emma still won't go to the bathroom on the walk.  *Sigh*   Pip did, and was very proud of himself.  He's such a funny little thing.

Off to bed folks, tomorrow is a new day!

Happy Birthday early to me!

I went over to a friend's house tonight for a few hours.  Just us, her husband and daughter.  I always have a fantastic time when I'm over there.  We usually have a great time chatting, and lots of laughs.  Her daughter is the sweetest child.  Tonight, we had amazing pasta and bread and I learned how to play Dominos!  THEN, after, they dim all the lights and get a Key Lime Pie out and sing Happy Birthday!  Now, it's not my birthday until Saturday, but I couldn't believe they did this!  I was floored!  Then, I got a super cute purse (along with a great card)!  It was way too much, but I appreciate it all!!  I was so surprised and stunned! :)  I am so blessed to have such great friends.

Hockey

We started hockey lessons today!  I was a bit nervous, not knowing what to expect, but all fears were assuaged with the start of the lesson.  David and I taped the sticks in my car before the lessons started.  Figured out that we needed scissors to cut the tape pretty quickly, but David somehow knew what he was doing and our sticks looks GREAT!

I got my hockey skates and gloves on Friday afternoon, after rehearsal at Nill Brothers.  If you need any hockey gear you can't wait for online, that place is GREAT!!  I have normal sized women's feet, which makes for Junior skates for hockey skates...which means, about 20% less than the senior skates....AND mine were 50% off of that.

my gloves

my skates

Our instructors were very nice, and quite patient.  I admit, we aren't great, but I think we improved from the start of the class to the end.  It's pretty much one of the best workouts I've had in a long time!  At the end of the lesson, only 1/2 hour!!, I had only a t-shirt on and was still sweating!  I definitely need a helmet though.  We didn't think that we'd need helmets for a class, but we scrimmage at the end of class and at several moments of the "game", I definitely wanted a helmet and pads.  No one is trying to get you, and actually everyone (all 8 of us) are very careful not to run into each other, but with as little control over my stick as I have, I have no faith that some stick could come flying into my face.  :)  I like my teeth IN my mouth.  :)

Overall, we got a fantastic workout and had so much fun!  We have so many things to practice this week!!  I can't wait to go back next Saturday!!!!

New Shoes!

Got a new pair of shoes yesterday!  Retail therapy never fails me when I need a pick-me-up.  They made my day (along with some great company from friends) and are super comfy.  The lighter tan parts on the side are leather, and the fringe and strap is suede (along with the perimeter of the platform).  God bless you, Michael Kors.  You know how to make a ladies' day!

Birthday Surprise and Parent's Visit

My parents came to visit on Wednesday of last week.  We had the BEST time when they were here, like always!  

On Wednesday, I picked them up at the airport, and we went to their hotel (Hilton) and then to tapas at La Bodega.  We then went to change and I took them to the Contributor's Concert.   They loved it.

On Thursday, I had rehearsal in the morning, and in the afternoon, we went to Cafe Trio and had lunch. Great food and atmosphere!  After that, we went went up to the top of City Hall and looked out over the city off the 30th floor.  I WISH I had brought my camera to take some pictures.  It was so clear and gorgeous.  We could see for miles!  We went to the Drum Room for dinner.  

The next day, was a double rehearsal day for me.  We got out early, so my parents came to get me around 3pm, went to Christopher Elbow chocolates, got drinks at the M I Greatroom at the Marriott, and  hung out until our reservations the Webster House for dinner and drinks.  Of COURSE I got the scallops, and was absolutely thrilled at the outcome.  I love that dish there, and usually get it when we go to Happy Hour as well.

On Saturday, we got up early and went to Shatto Dairy for a tour in the morning.  They had JUST had a baby cow the day before, and we got to pet it.  The tour is lovely, learning about the history of the dairy, the production, learning how to milk a cow...both manually and how the dairy does it, concluding with a taste of ALL their milks...Chocolate, Strawberry, Banana, Orange Dream (like a creamsicle), and Root Beer.  Yummy!  We then went back to Independence, MO, to the Vaile Mansion.  Beautiful, old Victorian home.  We took the tour, and learned a few things about the history of the town, as well as the Vaile family and house history.  That night, before my rehearsal, we went to Bristol Seafood Restaurant. Great restaurant!  MIGHT even beat the Webster House!

On Sunday, we went to brunch at Cafe Europa, and then to the Toy and Miniature Museum.  That's also a HUGE recommendation for a museum for the whole family.  It was stunning to see how small and detailed people can make furniture, plates, musical instruments, and even cutlery!  We then went back to the hotel to chill out for a bit, and went over to the Memorial Day symphony concert around 6pm.  We met Pam and Richard (Awalt) there, and ate hot dogs, hamburgers, picnic fare and had a few drinks before I had to go change for the concert.  I think they all really enjoyed the concert, and I had a great time playing it!  We all went out for drinks afterwards at Re-verse.

The next day, I had a surprise in store for me from my parents, in terms of a mini-vacation.  It turns out we went to Hermann, MO.  It's a small German town nestled RIGHT on the banks of the Missouri River.  It's a gorgeous little place, and has several breweries and wineries, along with cute shops and very nice people.  We went to a few wineries, an antique store, and a brewery...not to mention a two GREAT German restaurants!!  We stayed in a bed and breakfast, Hermann Hill, and I got my OWN room.  My parents room had a hot tub, but I secretly think I got the better view.  This place was spectacular and charming, at the same time.  At 9:30pm, we were brought a small tray of chocolate cookies and ice cream drizzled with port wine reduction and a candle.  For breakfast, we had our choice of eating in the dining room, or having it in our room.  Any beverage we wanted, and a choice (that day) of pecan cinnamon french toast, quiche or a build-your-own omelette, and a german sausage, and potatoes, with a bowl of fruit.  Marvelous!  Below are pictures of my room, bathroom, balcony, breakfast and the view of the bed and breakfast from town.  They also had two cute lab doggies who lived on the property that would sit and be very cute for a biscuit!

We came back on Tuesday night, and ate at Jazz (a cajun cafe in KC) with Alex (a friend who had come in to town for the violin audition).  It was a fun evening!  I took them to the airport in between rehearsals on Wednesday, and was very sad to see them go.  

Room

Bathroom

Breakfast on tray

MY breakfast, close up

View off Balcony to one side

other side!

Waterfall on the property

View of bed and breakfast from a winery in town

Happy Starr

My parents had to put our dog down on Tuesday.  I can't even grasp the fact that she won't be there each time I come home, to greet me, to lick my hand, to walk with me around the block.  She was in our lives for 15 years, and absolutely the best companion anyone could wish to have.  It seemed as though she always knew what we were talking about, and even could somehow understand time in baseball innings.  :)  I would have done anything for her, and given anything for her.  When I went home to visit, I would lay on her bed with her for hours just petting and cuddling her.  We would go for walks, and even when she was old, she ALWAYS tried for me.  Always tried to eat, let me feed her out of my hand, and wagged her tail, even though it hurt.

Perhaps the worst part of the night was when my Dad had to tell me.  They are visiting right now, and wanted to tell me in person instead of last night over the phone.  I have never seen my father cry before, ever.  I'm sure he cried when his mother died, but I have never seen it.  He is my pillar of strength, and he broke down and sobbed when telling me.  I knew I couldn't shed a single tear and it was my turn to be strong for him and my stepmom.  Right before he told me, when he started crying, I instantly feared that he was going to tell me that he was dying, and for a few moments I was actually relieved.  But, once it sank in, I was stunned.  Shocked and very sad.  

She hadn't been able to smell, and hadn't eaten anything in two days, or had any water.  She had alzehimers, and almost complete liver failure.  She didn't wanted to be walked anymore, her ABSOLUTE favorite thing in the world, and could barely actually walk.   She had once been the first to give kisses, and even would give them on command, just one small lick to let you know she understood...but hadn't given my Dad a kiss in months.  She was his little girl and the absolute joy of his life.  As they gave her a muscle relaxant, before the euthanasia took over, she laid her little head up against his arm, and gave him a small kiss on his hand, as she had done years before, just to say that she'd be ok.  As he said, she hadn't done that in 8 months, but that was the last thing she did.

I can't imagine the house without her.  I cry every time I think about her, and what I would have given to have hugged her one last time.  Rest in Peace Happy Starr.  I will see you in heaven.

Stress

Lately, I've been getting sick randomly, and often.  Nothing serious, just intestinal 'issues' and nausea.  (No, I'm not pregnant...)  I have been thinking that it's something that I've eaten, every time, but now, I'm beginning to believe I might be making myself sick due to stress.  It's not that I'm running frantically from here to there, nor do I have 10 kids.  I haven't taken an audition in a long time, and this one happens to be really important to me.  I usually don't care too much about the outcome, but I'm beginning to realize I'm internalizing things, and in turn, making my body freak out.  I'd love to think that it's something that I have eaten...but unless it's from a peanut butter sandwich.....  Haha.

On a completely different note, I need to organize my second bedroom stat.   This week.  I always put things off...but some furniture is coming at the end of the week, and a dear friend has agreed to move it in for me whilst I'm gone to the audition.  I of course am going to pay her for her troubles, but just the fact she's helping is SO nice.  Come to think of it, I need sheets for the new bed too.  Yikes.  *sigh*

Another random thought, I'm completely obsessed with streaming Netflix through my Wii.  It's awesome.  And I've been watching Law and Order SVU constantly (when I'm not practicing).  I've already seen every episode, but not in order.  I have found a few in the first season that I hadn't seen either!  I'm almost through the second season.  Love it.

Truth

"It's easy for you to appear as if everything is fine, but you're not sharing your secrets today. You may be holding on to some very strong feelings because you are afraid that telling all could provoke negative consequences. Unfortunately, your strategy might backfire because others can sense that you're withholding something important. Even if you don't just blurt the truth out into the open now, keep in mind that there's no reason to hide it either."


This was my horoscope this week.


I usually don't take much stock in horoscopes...I think they are fun to read at the end of the day, and mostly silly.  If one happens to pertain to my life at the moment, I think it's a message being sent to me...but I don't put too much weight on it.  However.  This one definitely made me stop and think.


This is definitely how I run my life.  I usually bottle things up inside and have everything outwardly appear as if they are ok.  A few of my friends know how I really feel, but no one else really needs to know.  One thing in my life in particular, I believe that only two people know how I truly feel, and it's not sitting well.  However, certain circumstances in the past have proved that people can stab you in the back fairly easily, and I will never forget it.


Quite interesting how things are brought to light.  

Love

Every time I come back, I never want to leave.  I love everything about this city.  It takes months to truly get over it when I return to where I live.  I shouldn't come anymore, because of this....but I can't stay away.

Allergies

Everyone has been complaining about their allergies lately.  For weeks!  I am allergic to everything (literally ALL pollen, dust, hair, mold, grass...whatever) and couldn't believe that people actually had allergies.  I was beginning to think that either they were retarded, or that I miraculously woke up one day and didn't have this huge problem that I've had for the past 28 years.  *Rolling eyes*  

Enter pollen domination on my body.

Yesterday, I woke up thinking that there was a great possibility that my head was going to explode and I would die.   My eyes burned, my face hurt, my head hurt, my nose dripped (super ew) and everything was swollen.  What the hell?  Seriously pollen?  You picked a day that it was RAINING to show up?  

Oh and thanks for not making Claritin, Allegra, Zyrtec, and Alavert work.  At all.

:)

Back!

I'm so horrible about updating my blog.  *Sigh*  I'll be better, I promise! :)

Nothing terribly important or exciting has happened though...so you can all sleep well tonight.  Haha, I'm suuuure you were worried.

The big news (big?) is that I moved.  I moved 'technically' on April 1st.  Ironically, it's pretty much the EXACT same layout, except that I added a second bedroom and bathroom off the kitchen.  And an unusually long entry hallway.  I'm sure you all know the bitching I've been doing on Facebook about my noisy upstairs neighbors, and alleyway.  I'm on the 9th floor now, and outside of random street noise, it's very quiet.  Currently, I don't have anyone downstairs or to the right of me.  Left, is Ms. Smokey McSmokerson, and upstairs are four Indian bankers here from India for a two month contract in a corporate apartment.  They are quiet, except when they drag chairs across the floor.  It's quite noisy when they do that, but man, they are nice, and don't (as of now) throw parties.  So far, I'm in heaven.  AND AND AND!!!! THE BEST PART....I don't use lights except when the sun sets.   Even when the sun is actually setting there is enough light in my apartment.   The sun wakes me up in the am, but I just smile and turn over to go back to sleep.  I'm so happy that I can see the sky (and amazing sunsets out the living room window from my couch!!!) that I don't even care yet.   (AND for those who know me, and know how much I love to sleep, this is HUGE.)  Haha.

Here are some pictures!

View from hallway into the kitchen (second bedroom on the right along with bathroom)

Second bathroom

View from kitchen into living room (see how I don't need lights even when the shades are drawn!!!!)

My bathroom

My first houseplants sitting on my kitchen window ledge getting a tan.  Haha.

So that's it folks! :)  

Also, I FINALLY got my internet fixed tonight.  Thanks to the help of David and his brother on picking out a router, I (again) FINALLY got one that works and will connect to my computer.  It's been 22 days since I've used my own internet.   22 days!  Most of the time I used a common connection, but it's nice to have my own secure one again.  Plus, it makes my viewing of Netflix through my Wii MUCH faster!

Today

Today was an interesting day.  It began rather early, but I'm trying to learn to embrace getting up earlier rather than later, as to not kill my entire day.  :)

Last week, was one of the best weeks in a long time.  I had a visitor from Dallas (who happened to be subbing with the orchestra also) from Tuesday to Sunday.  I had so much hanging out with him, and showing him around Kansas City.  It also happened to be a beautiful weekend to boot!  We got to do so many of my favorite things too!  BBQ, going to the Nelson Atkins museum, walking around Loose Park, hanging out at the Plaza, JP's wine bar, Westside Local, and hanging out with friends.  He also wanted to go to the World War I museum, and it was incredible.  I would highly recommend this museum to ANYONE.  I had never been, and want to go back soon.  I think there is always something I can read and learn!  It was nice to talk while walking and to see different points about art that were new to me!  I was very sad when he had to leave on Sunday...but of course he has a job to go back to! 

Today, I went over to the box office at 9am to help with the annual selling of the Flint Hills tickets.  :)  It was a madhouse, and we ended up selling 5,000 tickets in 90 minutes.  Can you imagine?  But, everyone was super nice and I enjoyed the chats, albeit brief, with the patrons on the phone.  I stayed for the majority of the day, taking calls even after we were sold out, to ensure that as many people as wanted, got on the wait-list.

At 2pm, I had an orthodontist appointment.  I enjoy going to the doctors, dentist, and orthodontist's offices.  I mainly just enjoy talking to different people, and all these offices have lots of friendly people who smile a lot! :) I also like hearing stories and how their day is going.  I'm progressing very well with the braces, but this time, I think that I would have rather been numb.  Instead of a power chain (lots of bands hooked together to ensure the wire doesn't pop out), which hurts for a day or two until it sufficiently stretches out, I got WIRES tied around the braces.  Apparently these don't stretch out.  Haha.  Sure doesn't feel like it.  Plus, I got an extra heavy rubber band for the left side of my face.  They laced the wires (like you do your shoes) over the entire top row of teeth, and the front half of the bottoms.  Plus, they are moving the molars on my left side too.  When they pushed the main wire through my top molars, I almost passed out.  I haven't felt pain like that since I woke up from my shoulder surgery.  My teeth have already bled a bit.  However, they are much better now.  I would like a double dose of codine, please. :)  The only consolation is that I will end up finally feeling pretty, and having nice teeth.  :)

So, I got back to the box office and took another hour of calls before I left, and on my LAST call....I got a VP at Hallmark Corporation.  He knew he was probably too late, to get tickets, and was very nice about it.  He sounded also about 70 years old.  SO cute.  He was my favorite all day (and I have some pretty funny stories), and after I told him I didn't have anymore tickets and would gladly add him to our wait list, he asked me.... "Well, do you need a roadie?"  HAHA!!!!  I told him although that no, in fact we don't have those, but I could stuff him in my trunk.  HAHA.  A great ending to a day.

Love and hugs to all!

Mascara

Lately, I've been thinking about my friend's evaluation of mascaras in her blog, about a year ago.  I loved it, and am going to expand/do one of my own.  

Currently, I own seven mascaras.  I love them all, and they have their own special place in my heart.  Some need to be tossed soon, and I probably won't replace them, because even I acknowledge that owning eight mascaras is a little much.  I think three or four could be enough! :)

Let's dive in!  (and in NO particular order)

Yves St. Laurent Volume Effect Faux Cils

$30 at Sephora

This mascara is the end all to end all.  It grabs EACH lash, coating it with the perfect amount of mascara, and providing the illusion that you have mile long lashes.  It provides a bit of volume too, and lasts ALL day.  I was told about this by a friend, and it will always be one of my options.  My only dislike was that it dried out more quickly than others.  They say that you should toss the mascara after 3 months or when it starts smelling....whichever is SOONER.  I'm not sure this will last 3 months...maybe just 2.

Benefit Bad Gal Lash  

$19 at Sephora

You want volume?  You GOT IT!  This is a great mascara for volume, but not a heavy lash.    It gives the va-va-voom without the clumps.  I've been using this for years, and it ALWAYS performs.   If you've been shopping only at the drugstores for your makeup your entire life, this would be a great first 'nice' mascara to try!  If I had to pick a dislike, it would be the brush is longer and wide, and you have to be careful when trying to get the little lashes on the side of the eyes.

Cargo Texas Lash 

$20 on Cargo website

VA VA VA VA VOOM!  You won't have to apply a second coat with this one.  Lots of volume.  Sexy, Texas lash is what it is.  Buxom.  :)  It applies a LOT of mascara instantly.  Love it.  Lasts all day.  Doesn't dry out.  At all.  Be careful though, it has the potential to clump!

Christian Dior DiorShow Waterproof   

$24 at Sephora

My favorite waterproof mascara.  Comes in several different colors.  Recently, I wear this almost every day!  It is the ULTIMATE triple threat!  Volume, Lengthening, and NEVER smudges.  I have full on cried and this stuff doesn't budge AN INCH.  Be careful where you put it though.  If you smash it against your face while applying it, you have to use waterproof eye makeup remover.  This will last even through a shower.  

Imju Fiberwig Mascara 

$24 at Sephora

Another mascara you will never see me without.  This is a very light formula that I use over my regular mascara.  It actually has fibers in it, along with the mascara, to attach to the ends of your eyelashes like extensions!  It provides volume and length (volume only when used over a regular mascara).  You can put as many coats as you want on, and the lashes just get longer and longer.  Washes right off!  Japan is my new favorite country for mascara design.  They have embarked upon a brilliant product.

I don't typically shop at the drugstore for ANY cosmetics.  I don't think.  However, there are two mascaras I love.

CoverGirl Lash Blash Waterproof (orange tube)

It's a great mascara.  Period.  Tends to have a little flaking after 8 hours or more of wear.  BUT, it is most definitely waterproof, and has a GREAT plastic, flexible brush.  I have never experienced any clumping and it gives me a lot of volume!  It's a little difficult to reach the tiny lashes because of how big the applicator is.  If you REALLY can't wrap your imagination around spending $20 on a mascara, this will be the one for you.  

CoverGirl Lash Exact 

It's a simple product and provides consistent results.  Nothing fancy, nothing outstanding.  Grabs all lashes, and provides an even coverage.   Again, the same as the LashBlast brush, it doesn't clump (ever) and the applicator provides even coverage.  

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

NOW that you've read all that....all these products (minus the drugstore ones) can be found at Sephora.  But, they can also be found at Ulta, and probably also on Amazon, and maybe even some department stores.  And, I most always use just the plain black.  ALSO!!!  If you don't like something at Sephora, you can ALWAYS return it.  No questions.  Even if you've already used it a few times.

NO woman should EVER go without a eyelash curler.  I haven't met a woman yet who SHOULDN'T use one.  :) :) :)  My favorite is the Shu Uemura. Yes, it's $19, but I NEVER go a day without it.  Even if you don't use mascara everyday, it brightens your face, and is a #1 "must do" to instantly make you look more awake. (You can also find others that are cheaper, but this one will never assault your face or pinch you!)

My favorite eye makeup remover is the Sephora house brand, FACE.  It's VERY gentle, not greasy, and takes off everything.  Make sure you get the waterproof kind, just in case you ever use waterproof makeup. (Shake before you use!)  I've probably tried 7 different kinds, and NOTHING even compares.  $10 at Sephora

Also, no one should be without an eyelash/brow comb either.  It combats clumping, and also keeps those pesky brows in check.  :)  

A little mascara, blush and lipgloss will instantly make you look perkier and polished.  Always a must, even if you're running out the door.  Remember, just because you feel like poop, doesn't mean you have to look like it!  Love your face, and it will love you back!:)  

Movies

I watched three movies today.  The first one was on Lifetime, the second "The Holiday" (again), and the third "Because I Said So" (again).  They all touched my heart in different ways, but are all good for the soul.  Since I can't remember what the first was called, you'll have to take my word for it...but if you haven't seen the other two, you'll just have to go watch them.  I do have to go to work tonight, but I would much prefer to sit and finish the last 20 minutes of "Because I Said So" in my pajamas.  :)

Organization Saturday

I finally did it.  I re-organized my bookshelf.  All the viola related music is in a filing cabinet, and the other stuff is organized on the bottom shelf.  Paperwork is filed as well, and labeled with my new lovely label-maker.  I also changed the spacing of the shelves, rearranged the pictures and categorized the books differently.  I need something on top of the bookshelves though.  Some flowers or SOMETHING.

I also dusted, re-organized my shoe rack, and cleaned out the fridge today.  It's very freeing to have things slightly more clean, and organized.  To celebrate I made some homemade chocolate chip cookies.  And I only ate one!

Tomorrow, I think that I will do some laundry, practice, take some things down to the storage unit, go to a Super Bowl Party and hang up clothes.  We have Monday and Tuesday off too!  :)  What to do?!?

Determination

I am determined to get something done today.  It's really hard for me to accomplish much of anything on my days off, mainly because I sleep in.  But, even with that, I am such a couch potato on these days! :)  It's pretty easy to do in my loft, because the windows look directly into a garage and another building.  I don't have much natural light, so I can pretend all sorts of things...like it's not 3pm and that I'm still in pajamas. :)  

I love to organize things, so that's usually my fall back plan when I don't want to do something.  :) My to-do list for today consists of only practicing, and maybe doing some dishes.  But, I've included organizing my bookshelf and labeling my pantry on the list for today.  :)  That should buy me some time so that I don't have to do dishes, right?  :)

It snowed about 7 inches yesterday and was JUST gorgeous.  But, it was a wet snow, and a lot of it has melted.  I'm sad about that, but not sad that it's going to snow more on Sunday and Monday.  Since, I don't have to work until Wednesday, this provides me with a lot of catch-up-on-projects-while-still-being-able-to-practice time.  :)  

Off the couch I go...onward!

Blessings in Disguise!

My speakers on my computer have been mysteriously broken since the beginning of January.  One day they were working, and then next they weren't.  I could still use the headphones to have sound, but nothing else.  The sound came back as mysteriously as it went away.  I will never know the cause of this or the reason it came back.  It was a wonderful surprise though.  :)

QUOTE OF THE DAY

"If you didn't do what you do, and I didn't do what I do, would things be different?"

What does that quote mean to you?  

I was watching a movie this morning and it really stuck in my mind.  I'm not exactly sure how I would describe how it applies to my life, because there are so many facets to which I could apply it.  Funny enough, it came from a silly, girly movie, but I remembered it a few hours later, so I thought that I should think about it more.  

The first thing that comes to my mind is my relationships.  In the past year, there has been more than one instance where me living where I do, and doing what I do for a profession has gotten in the 'way' of a potential relationship.  And frankly, I didn't like the outcome of either situation.  It's very unfair to the other person and really disheartening when someone assumes you would always choose your career over your heart.  Sometimes maybe, but not every instance, or situation is the same.  Another meaning that I think it might have to me is about how I choose my words and delivery.  I tend to be very blunt and direct.  I'm sure there are times when people think I don't choose my words or have a filter, but 95% of the time I always am sure of what comes out of my mouth is exactly what I want to say.  It's just the way I am.  Sure, there are people that I'm slightly more careful around, because I know they are extra sensitive, but most of the time, it's just me!  :) 

Post Secret

I read Post Secret every week.  I think that it's a very interesting website, where people send in their 'secrets' for others to read anonomously (sp?).  Every Sunday it gets updated.  There are always 'secrets' that I can relate to, and recently they have been hitting really close to home.  Check it out.  :)

Enchanted

We had the oddest program this week, although it flowed together quite well and was well received by the audience.  We played the Pulcinella Suite (Stravinsky), 2 violin concertos -Barber and Prokofiev, and Shostakovich's Symphony #1.  The Barber violin concerto is one of my favorites, and I really enjoy both Pulcinella and Shosti #1.  This is a weird statement from me, because I'm known for my love of Beethoven, and Brahms...and all things from the Romantic period (or Classical).  I have decided that I will most likely walk down the aisle to the first :59 seconds from the Prokofiev Violin Concerto #2.  :)  It's lovely.  Check it out (and I prefer the slower tempo).

What's also lovely?  Having an entire weekend to stay in bed as long as I want.  Today wasn't exactly as long as I'd prefer, but definitely sufficed! :)  Yesterday, I woke up when I wanted and watched movies and Law and Order SVU all day.  Today, the same, and I'm watching movies until I have to go to work.  :)  I think that one of my all time favorite movies is now Enchanted.  I couldn't keep from smiling the entire time I was watching it FOR THE FIRST TIME yesterday.  I can't believe I haven't seen it for so long!  My life was so empty and I had no clue!   Haha.  I also got to watch Legally Blonde again.  Love that one too.  If you haven't seen Enchanted, PLEASE go watch it...and it's totally appropriate for kids too.

Even though we are supposed to have snow this week, and by the weekend, single digit temps (AGAIN), I'm in a joyful mood, and want to sing all day long....

Love and joy for the rest of your weekend!

Off week

Cough cough cough.  I always get a small cold when the temperatures change.  Last week, we moved from single digits to upper 30's and low and behold, I got a cold.  Not too big, sniffly nose and what not.  But, I have this cough now.  Which is really annoying because it's dry, and sounds nasty and contagious, but it's not.  Sigh.

In all other terms, I had a great week last week.  A friend of mine is preparing for an audition, and since I was off this week, I went over to their house to hang out with his wife and help with the kids a bit.  I love their family, and it's super fun to be over there.  They have four kids, under the age of 6, so the household is lively and there is always something going on.  We made two trips to the library and several outings for shopping.  There is still snow everywhere, so the older two kids and I went outside and built a snowman and a snow fort.  It was super fun!  I didn't grow up with snow, and was definitely channeling my inner child for an hour or so.  The audition is this Monday and Tuesday, so the 'fun' week is over.  :(  I do go back to work next week, which will be great, but I really enjoyed myself!  We even ordered Chinese one night, and after the kids were asleep, had a fun night with a movie!

We should be getting some rain this week, which 'should' melt the snow.  I'm hoping.  Because, as long as it's not snowing anymore, I'd love for my car not to be grey. 

Because of the audition, there are lots of cellists coming into town.  I'm looking forward to seeing one in particular, because she was a member of our section last year.  She's going to stay with me on Tuesday night, and I can't wait.  We had lots of fun last year and I miss her a lot!  I love girls nights, and am anxious to see her!