Enjoy living today!
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
Monday, October 8, 2007
Road Trip
Little road trip to Savannah yesterday. So glad to get out of town and have a change of scenery. I had visions of tours of funky shops and some artful influence. But, alas, you have to be 4 year old flexible. We went to B & N in search of some of my favorite mags that I can't get here. I found my Dwell fix and Somerset Home (by Stampington Company). Somerset Home is an artful magazine showing creative handmade peices for the home. Stampington also makes a mag called Altered Couture, which is what I was actually looking for but they were out. Love all of their magazines. Very creative. Amazing how I dashed in for a couple of magazines and an hour and a half later....
By then we were starving, so we found food then headed down town. After grabbing some coffe at a very cool coffee shop, we went to Forsyth Park. It reminds me of Central Park in New York because it is a vast expanse of green and lined with old oak trees. In the middle is this massive fountain. It is a beautiful park. My girl spent some time on the swing/slide. Very happy to play. Very Sad to leave.
That was it. But you know, it was so nice to be together as a family. Hubby and I got a chance to really talk while we drove. A luxury we don't seem to have at home. We discovered we feel the same way about some things and it was just one of those days where you seem to understand what each person is saying. Where they are coming from. It was very good for us. Relaxing and restorative.
Hurray.
Sunday, October 7, 2007
The Sweetest Wedding
I had to go out of town and do hair for a wedding yesterday afternoon. I was looking forward to it for many reasons. I have been doing hair for many in this family for several years now, so I feel almost a part of the family. This was not going to be your traditional wedding and I was really looking forward to that. The bride and groom had a renaissance/medieval theme. It was also held at a castle! There is a place called Celebration Castle that was built for just such occasions. It was more ambiance that authentic. But still. She got married in a castle!
What I loved was what they wore. The groomsmen wore creamy shirts with large sleeves, doublets, I think they are called. Over that was a long vest type "jacket" reaching mid thigh. It was collarless but stood up a bit at the neck and was black and embroidered all over with gold. Not flashy, but rich looking. They also wore black pants with that. The groom wore a full kilt. Very dashing.The bridesmaids looked like maidens. Each wore a different color. Rust, deep green, and red. The flower girls had a matching outfit in maroon. They too, wore cream blouses, theirs with scooped necks and a vest that laced up over that. Long skirts completed the outfit. Simple, but effective. Their hair was worn down and simple, adorned with a piece of narrow ribbon strung with jewels that complemented the colors in their dress and tied behind the head so the jewels rested on the forehead. Sweet!
The bride. She looked like a Grecian goddess. She was breathtaking in a simple dress that was very simple creamy sheath overlaid with a filmy layer of sheer fabric that was straight in front and fell to form a train in back which she held in her hand as she walked. She had added sheer flowing sleeves to the dress. It scooped across her neck and barely sat on her shoulders. There was a simple band of beading just under the bust. She has very long dark hair which we gave loose curls and braided two small pieces on either side and pulled them back. She had a wreath of flowers for her hair to match her dress. I think she and I were expecting a more delicate arrangement. It didn't overwhelm her though and looked perfect once we got it pinned in. That was the biggest challenge. It would have been helpful had the florist put some wire loops in so I could attach it to the hair with bobby pins. As it was, the flowers were taped together and that formed this big "spine" that was a challenge to pin. It was just so big! We did it though, somehow. It was the "crowning" touch. I did her makeup also and... she was just breathtaking. I would look at her and dance with pleasure. The flower girls, sisters (5 and 7), also wore colorful wreaths of flowers in their hair. All I can say is... thank God those wreaths stayed. The girls were not wild, but they were active young girls and I was just amazed that those wreaths did not slip and slide. Especially because they were so challenging to attach. I tend to watch the groom when the bride walks down the aisle. I just wanted to see his face when he saw her. He cried. She cried. I cried.
At the reception, they served ham, sliced turkey (turkey legs), and dressing along with crudites. I loved the turkey legs. Yes, I had one and didn't care (much) that I looked like a cave woman eating it!
I was able to see a couple of the family members that I haven't seen in awhile. Sister-in-law once was my client but moved away. Her daughters were the flower girls. I gave the oldest her first haircut. Sister-in-law worked at my ob/gyn's office when she lived her and to make a long story short (very short), it was she who told me I was pregnant. She will always have a special place in my heart. Plus, she's just so dang fun!
Now, this post has been heavy, heavy on description. I've worked hard to try to describe it in as much detail as possible for two reasons: I didn't want to forget and I want you to see it too. Why? you ask. Why not just post some pics? Infinitely easier! Yes, but if you know me very well, you know that sometimes I do things the hard way rather than the smart way. In this case, it's because I FORGOT THE DAMN CAMERA!!!!
What I loved was what they wore. The groomsmen wore creamy shirts with large sleeves, doublets, I think they are called. Over that was a long vest type "jacket" reaching mid thigh. It was collarless but stood up a bit at the neck and was black and embroidered all over with gold. Not flashy, but rich looking. They also wore black pants with that. The groom wore a full kilt. Very dashing.The bridesmaids looked like maidens. Each wore a different color. Rust, deep green, and red. The flower girls had a matching outfit in maroon. They too, wore cream blouses, theirs with scooped necks and a vest that laced up over that. Long skirts completed the outfit. Simple, but effective. Their hair was worn down and simple, adorned with a piece of narrow ribbon strung with jewels that complemented the colors in their dress and tied behind the head so the jewels rested on the forehead. Sweet!
The bride. She looked like a Grecian goddess. She was breathtaking in a simple dress that was very simple creamy sheath overlaid with a filmy layer of sheer fabric that was straight in front and fell to form a train in back which she held in her hand as she walked. She had added sheer flowing sleeves to the dress. It scooped across her neck and barely sat on her shoulders. There was a simple band of beading just under the bust. She has very long dark hair which we gave loose curls and braided two small pieces on either side and pulled them back. She had a wreath of flowers for her hair to match her dress. I think she and I were expecting a more delicate arrangement. It didn't overwhelm her though and looked perfect once we got it pinned in. That was the biggest challenge. It would have been helpful had the florist put some wire loops in so I could attach it to the hair with bobby pins. As it was, the flowers were taped together and that formed this big "spine" that was a challenge to pin. It was just so big! We did it though, somehow. It was the "crowning" touch. I did her makeup also and... she was just breathtaking. I would look at her and dance with pleasure. The flower girls, sisters (5 and 7), also wore colorful wreaths of flowers in their hair. All I can say is... thank God those wreaths stayed. The girls were not wild, but they were active young girls and I was just amazed that those wreaths did not slip and slide. Especially because they were so challenging to attach. I tend to watch the groom when the bride walks down the aisle. I just wanted to see his face when he saw her. He cried. She cried. I cried.
At the reception, they served ham, sliced turkey (turkey legs), and dressing along with crudites. I loved the turkey legs. Yes, I had one and didn't care (much) that I looked like a cave woman eating it!
I was able to see a couple of the family members that I haven't seen in awhile. Sister-in-law once was my client but moved away. Her daughters were the flower girls. I gave the oldest her first haircut. Sister-in-law worked at my ob/gyn's office when she lived her and to make a long story short (very short), it was she who told me I was pregnant. She will always have a special place in my heart. Plus, she's just so dang fun!
Now, this post has been heavy, heavy on description. I've worked hard to try to describe it in as much detail as possible for two reasons: I didn't want to forget and I want you to see it too. Why? you ask. Why not just post some pics? Infinitely easier! Yes, but if you know me very well, you know that sometimes I do things the hard way rather than the smart way. In this case, it's because I FORGOT THE DAMN CAMERA!!!!
Saturday, October 6, 2007
Culture, Dahling
Yesterday, a friend called and said she had an extra ticket to see Philadanco I had no idea what that was but said "sure!" Any excuse to go do something and see a friend. It is the Philadelphia Dance Company. Once I arrived and looked at the program, I realized that I had wanted to see this performance when I received the schedule of events for the Performing Arts Center at the university. Then, I promptly forgot. How serendipitous that my friend would call and invite me! Thanks ACE!
I enjoyed the performance. They make it look effortless. I feel if I knew the routine, I could do it. (Right). They began moving on stage, some moving in unison and then it seemed everyone was dancing to the beat of their own drummer as it were. Spinning, leaping, twirling, whirling...they were whirling dervishes. Then it stopped and they would be controlled and precise in their movements. One piece called, "The Mourner's Bench" involved one male dancer and a bench. The section was a collage of Negro spirituals and he danced using the bench. All of his movements were slow and deliberate. You could see the muscles in his body as he stretched and balanced. Amazing.
The last piece was called "Enemy Behind the Gates". The program note reads: "Enemy Behind the Gates" is a work that was inspired by enemies that are within our midst. THEY LOOK LIKE YOU..THEY ACT LIKE YOU..THEY LIVE LIKE YOU BUT, THEY ARE NOT ONE OF YOU. The gate is not invincible but it's yours to secure. Set to the burning music of Steve Reich and danced by the explosive energy of PHILADANCO.
Now, I could see the theme in the other performances. The "Southern Landscape" about slaves and "Philadelphia Experiment" which was hip hop. But this one, Enemy...aside from the more regimented style of dancing, I have to say I didn't get this one as much. But that being said, it was all very fascinating.
Well, I'm off to the races, so to speak. One of my clients is getting married (in a castle, no less, in a medieval themed wedding) about a hour away. I must go gather my tools of beauty and schlep them over. I'll have more to share about that later, I'm sure.
Toodles.
I enjoyed the performance. They make it look effortless. I feel if I knew the routine, I could do it. (Right). They began moving on stage, some moving in unison and then it seemed everyone was dancing to the beat of their own drummer as it were. Spinning, leaping, twirling, whirling...they were whirling dervishes. Then it stopped and they would be controlled and precise in their movements. One piece called, "The Mourner's Bench" involved one male dancer and a bench. The section was a collage of Negro spirituals and he danced using the bench. All of his movements were slow and deliberate. You could see the muscles in his body as he stretched and balanced. Amazing.
The last piece was called "Enemy Behind the Gates". The program note reads: "Enemy Behind the Gates" is a work that was inspired by enemies that are within our midst. THEY LOOK LIKE YOU..THEY ACT LIKE YOU..THEY LIVE LIKE YOU BUT, THEY ARE NOT ONE OF YOU. The gate is not invincible but it's yours to secure. Set to the burning music of Steve Reich and danced by the explosive energy of PHILADANCO.
Now, I could see the theme in the other performances. The "Southern Landscape" about slaves and "Philadelphia Experiment" which was hip hop. But this one, Enemy...aside from the more regimented style of dancing, I have to say I didn't get this one as much. But that being said, it was all very fascinating.
Well, I'm off to the races, so to speak. One of my clients is getting married (in a castle, no less, in a medieval themed wedding) about a hour away. I must go gather my tools of beauty and schlep them over. I'll have more to share about that later, I'm sure.
Toodles.
Friday, October 5, 2007
Dawn Patrol
I love getting up early. It gives me some time to myself before the family activity in the house begins. It's quiet, peaceful, I can do what I want. There's no one asking to watch a 'bideo, there's no one asking me if there are any clean clothes they can wear. I'm free to be just me for a short while. Decadent.
I also like to sleep in upon occasion. Last night I stayed at work late to finish all the book work so I don't have to go in today. Bliss. A true day off. I would luxuriously sleep in until 7:30 at least. Yeah. Scroll down the page a little way. See that precious innocent face of a cat? She's nuts. Clearly, I forgot to inform her that I was sleeping in this morning not to be disturbed under any circumstances because at about 6:15 this morning, I heard something fall, there was an awful racket and she began running across me. It woke me, but not hubby. Of course. I thought I would just go back to sleep. No. She comes up and rubs her face against my hand, grabs my hair with her mouth and pulls it. Walks on me. Demands attention. Wants a love fest. I'm up, I grab her hug her close and roughly pet her rubbing her face. Oh yeah, loud purring commences. Now that I've fed her, she's nowhere to be found. Brat.
I like getting up early.
Really.
I also like to sleep in upon occasion. Last night I stayed at work late to finish all the book work so I don't have to go in today. Bliss. A true day off. I would luxuriously sleep in until 7:30 at least. Yeah. Scroll down the page a little way. See that precious innocent face of a cat? She's nuts. Clearly, I forgot to inform her that I was sleeping in this morning not to be disturbed under any circumstances because at about 6:15 this morning, I heard something fall, there was an awful racket and she began running across me. It woke me, but not hubby. Of course. I thought I would just go back to sleep. No. She comes up and rubs her face against my hand, grabs my hair with her mouth and pulls it. Walks on me. Demands attention. Wants a love fest. I'm up, I grab her hug her close and roughly pet her rubbing her face. Oh yeah, loud purring commences. Now that I've fed her, she's nowhere to be found. Brat.
I like getting up early.
Really.
Thursday, October 4, 2007
Shhhh....
I wonder what it would be like to go an entire day without talking to someone. I think I'm envisioning a day at home ALONE. Although, these days it's possible to go shopping and never speak to a soul since salespeople and cashiers can be anti-social occasionally.
Yesterday was so quiet and rainy. I had to work, but the day was different. I sat through a 3 hr. class on a major brand of skin care. It wasn't boring, but I was sleepy and it was rainy and I hadn't had enough coffee. Then I did 2 haircuts, barely speaking to the poor clients, I felt so laid back and sleepy. Then I went to lunch with a friend. At least we both were subdued. I'd hate to be a wet blanket if someone were in high spirits. After a pleasant lunch, I went back for a few hours of "scizzing". I hardly felt I worked.
That feeling of being subdued and quiet has carried over into today. I even feel a bit withdrawn. Hubby and I had an emotional talk last night and while no one is angry, I find myself tentative. Wanting to go inside myself and be very small. Leave the barest imprint today as I live this day. A bit improbable as I have a full schedule today and really need to gear up to be "all things to all people". But... I have this moment, this moment where I am alone with my thoughts. My quiet place.
Yesterday was so quiet and rainy. I had to work, but the day was different. I sat through a 3 hr. class on a major brand of skin care. It wasn't boring, but I was sleepy and it was rainy and I hadn't had enough coffee. Then I did 2 haircuts, barely speaking to the poor clients, I felt so laid back and sleepy. Then I went to lunch with a friend. At least we both were subdued. I'd hate to be a wet blanket if someone were in high spirits. After a pleasant lunch, I went back for a few hours of "scizzing". I hardly felt I worked.
That feeling of being subdued and quiet has carried over into today. I even feel a bit withdrawn. Hubby and I had an emotional talk last night and while no one is angry, I find myself tentative. Wanting to go inside myself and be very small. Leave the barest imprint today as I live this day. A bit improbable as I have a full schedule today and really need to gear up to be "all things to all people". But... I have this moment, this moment where I am alone with my thoughts. My quiet place.
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
I'm So Blue
After the weekend flurry of activity, life seems a bit anticlimatic in comparison. Everything is on hold as we go back to our regularly scheduled programming. It seems to take until Sunday to motivate myself into action to accomplish anything around the house. A very small window of accomplishment on my part.
That hallway? It is very blue. The color itself is beautiful. Hubby likes it. (He's fairly agreeable about such things.) He did make a comment as he came from the bedroom through the hall for the first time: " I wonder if this is what the Children of Israel felt like as they walked through the Red Sea?" It does feel a bit like you are walking through a tunnel of water. I've had suggestions paint a mural and make it like the ocean. Not the direction I'd like to take, I think. I'm living with it to see if it grows on me and mull over my options.
We had supper on the sofa last night and watched a video. *smile* After spending a pleasant Sunday a.m. on it drinking coffee and reading the paper, I haven't seen much of it since. Still, I smile everytime I look at it. Let me tell you, nothing makes you appreciate something more than not being able to have it for awhile. I experience that with the library and now the sofa. I feel a little more grateful towards those things now. Hmm. Maybe we should do some voluntary fasting of things we think are essential in order to appreciate it more OR find we didn't need it as badly as we originally thought. That requires some thought. Or maybe just some serious deliberation on being thankful. For instance, I couldn't go without my job (practically speaking), but I need to be more thankful for the fact that I have a job and I am blessed to enjoy what I do. God sends me enough clients each week to feed our family and pay our bills while hubby stays home with our girl.
Speaking of our girl, a minor miracle happened last night. After work, when I get home, I tend to put my hair back in a ponytail. Last night, the girl who will have nothing in her hair to hold it in any way shape or form, asked me if she "could have a tail just like my mommy." Be still my heart. She opted for 2 ponytails. One on either side of her head. She even slept with them!
Goodness, at the excitement around here!
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