C'est La Vie

a good time had

2011-04-02T16:25:00.005-05:00

A few weeks ago, my dad came to town to visit. It was a blast. We went out for pizza, browsed the guitar section of a music store, bummed around half price books, and had our very own little cookout.

Life Isn't Fair

2011-03-07T21:29:00.005-06:00

There are a lot of things I don't understand about this world.. the biggest is why horrible things happen to great people.

I have the best friends on the planet. I know that's a cliche, but I proudly proclaim that I really do have friends in my life who I consider family. Even though they aren't flesh and blood, they are my brother and sister, they'll be an Aunt and Uncle to my children, and more than once (or even two, three, and four times) they have scooped me up out of the pit of despair, dusted me off, and glued me back together.

So why is it that these wonderful people who would do anything for a friend, give freely of themselves, and genuinely care about others are constantly dealt the hardest of heartbreaks? This I don't know. I don't know why the world is so cruel. I don't know why some suffer more than others.

Whatever the reason, my heart goes out to you two. I'm here for you in any way that I can be. Just like everything else, we will get through this. I like to think we're getting all of life's heartbreak out of the way now so that we can have many decades of pure joy ahead. Who knows?.. but here's to hoping.

Character

2011-02-21T19:50:00.006-06:00

I used to think I was a pretty good judge of character, but I bet if you asked any one of my friends they'd tell you otherwise. The truth is, I always think people are mostly good. I think they will do the right thing, make the right choice, and most of the time, I'm incredibly shocked when things don't play out the way I expect them to.

For me, it's hard to pinpoint the character of someone I haven't known for years. There are a few people of irrefutably good character such as Mother Theresa and Jesus, and of course on the flip side of the spectrum we have murderers, thieves, and the like. The reality is, most everyone else falls into the gray area.

So, how can you tell? Is it based on one small action. . . the culmination of a series of poor or excellent choices? Is it a lifetime of behavior weighed by a higher power at the end of it all? What is character, and how do we classify ourselves?

I like to think I'm a good person. I try to do the right thing, be kind and compassionate to others, and live an honest life. But for as many times as I've been hurt, I'm sure I've done my share of hurting. And as hard as I might have tried, I know I've ended up on at least a couple of "misjudged" lists in my day.

I think in the end, you can't truly and completely judge a character. What you can "judge" is a glimpse- a mere moment in time of knowing someone. Maybe they were having a bad day, bad month, bad year. Is it really fair to write someone off as having poor character based on one or even a few experiences? Maybe. I have a friend who can predict the character of someone after speaking with them for only a short amount of time. And honestly, she's spot on 99% of the time.

For me, a person not gifted in the field of character judging, that would mean assuming everyone is horrible and walking through life hopeless and discouraged- waiting to be jilted, short changed, screwed over. The truth is, I just can't do that. I will continue to believe that people are good. I want to be hopeful and optimistic, even if it means ending up with a few more broken hearts or battle scars.

Ob-la-di, Ob-la-da

2011-01-04T14:57:00.002-06:00

I'm just going to start by saying I'm glad that 2010 is over. It brought many changes, endless heartache, and a definite finality to the life I thought I was going to have.

2011 is here, and I'm ready. Bring on the good, the new, the exciting, and the happy.

Happy New Year, everyone!

Finally Fall!!

2010-10-09T17:36:00.003-05:00

I finally got off of my lazy behind and finished putting out the fall/Halloween decorations! I love love love this time of year!

I also bought a new stove top tea pot. It has an awesome whistle and everything! I was inspired to get one by my friend Katie on Friday while we sipped peppermint tea in her studio.

I am totally pumped for the seasonal celebrations to being, and even though I'm trying not to get ahead of myself.. it's possible I'm already scouting a place to put our Christmas tree! :)

-Sarah

Goals

2009-10-05T21:44:00.004-05:00

Perhaps you have heard of the 101 in 1001 phenomenon sweeping the net? Well, thousands of people across the world have embarked on goal setting projects- the idea being to complete 101 separate goals in 1001 days. Read more about it here.

I really love the concept of setting goals and doing things that you have always wanted to do, but unfortunately, I have too small of an attention span to set goals lasting for 2.75 years. So, I am going to work on a smaller scale. Introducing the 30 in 30 days plan! I am going to set goals I can complete in roughly a month- some simple, daunting chores I have been putting off.. some conceptual goals. The thing is, we all have "I'll do that later" lists. But later never comes.. and life always gets in the way. I hope to start a new list every 30 days and maybe even work up to a 1001 plan.

Here's my first list. I start tomorrow! Goals can be completed in any order.

1. wash my car
2. clean out my car
3. workout three days a week- every single week
4. make dinner at home Monday-Friday (cereal counts!)
5. refrain from eating fast food of any kind
6. take all of my meds/ vitamins everyday
7. go through my closet and make a donation pile (and then donate the pile!)
8. do my hair (for real) at least once a week
9. get my oil changed
10. read a book on my list
11. revamp one piece of furniture
12. finish sewing the kitchen curtains
13. have coffee with a friend
14. call extended members of my family just to chit chat
15. do something outside at least twice
16. carve a pumpkin
17. be more positive about a certain situation in my life
18. finish upholstering the ottoman
19. work out a savings plan
20. shoot at least one roll of film in my SLR
21. learn a new song on the guitar (all the way through!!)
22. drink at least 64 ounces of water daily
23. go to bed earlier (10:30- no tv) during the week
24. update my blog at least once a week
25. wash my puppies twice
26. organize the piles of mail and create a filing system
27. pack my lunch everyday
28. make a list for the next 30 days
29. create a savings jar
30. have some actual savings in it by the end of the month :)

I'll come back and check them off as I go. Wish me luck!

<3 Sarah

Engaged? Know someone who is??

2009-09-27T14:36:00.003-05:00

My lovey friend Katie is having a fabulous letterpress wedding invitation suite giveaway! Her work is beautiful, so get on over there and enter. All you need to do is leave a comment! Good luck! :)

http://www.majoiepress.com/blog/?p=1003

Blogging Hiatus

2009-08-26T21:28:00.003-05:00

Well hello there, stranger. Sorry about the blogging hiatus. So much has happened; where to begin?

I'll just brief you on a couple highlights:

A few weekends ago, my mother came into town to visit for her 60th birthday. We went to the spa for the day which was a glorious experience. We saunaed, steam roomed, whirlpooled, swam, and finished the day off with lovely spa pedicures. I was a grand time.

Recently, things have been spinning out of control for me. I've been super busy at work and was in the hospital this week. I had emergency gall bladder surgery on Monday which was no fun at all. I've been home resting since Tuesday evening and am beginning to feel a little better. I sleep a lot- I mean.. a lot. I'm awake for about 2 hours for every 5 that I sleep- but they say rest is the best medicine, so we'll see. Other than that- no news is good new I suppose. I'll write a longer update in a few days.

Take care,

Sarah

Collection of Thoughts

2009-06-24T21:43:00.022-05:00

Craigslist Critique- The Vintage Advantage..

Sometimes one may be lucky enough to stumble across the most whimsical vintage piece for a killer steal on CL.. and other times you might find yourself sifting through loads of worthless junk. Here are a few shining examples of great finds:

http://sanantonio.craigslist.org/bik/1217134199.html

http://sanantonio.craigslist.org/fuo/1227457106.html

http://sanantonio.craigslist.org/fuo/1235891094.html

And, here are a few examples of Retro done wrong..

I'm sorry sir, but nobody wants your "retro" bathtub

This may come in handy at a chic 80s party, but not much else

I would never describe this as a "lovely" retro sofa

So You Think You Can.. excuse me is that Toni Basil???

I was watching SYTYCD this evening as I often do on Wednesday nights, when I noticed a new face on the judges panel. It was none other than the singer of "Mickey," Toni Basil. What she was doing judging a dance contest is neither here nor there. The important question is, where did she get that fabulous hat?

On may way to work every morning, I listen to an entertainment talk show that will remain unnamed. Though I won't admit it, this particular program often gives me the giggles and enlightens my grasp on culture. For example, this morning I learned that you can make almost an otherwise observant statement antagonistic by simply adding "What's the matter with you?" at the end of it. Try these on for size:

"You ate the last ice cream sandwich. What's the matter with you?"

"You don't want to see that new Sandra Bullock flick. What's the matter with you?"

"You've never been to Sun Sun Chinese Bistro. What's the matter with you?"

These are helpful tips on the art of passive aggression that can be used in everyday scenarios.

That's all for today folks. Happy Humpday :)

Sarah

Cleanse

2009-04-27T17:38:00.006-05:00

So, I started an all fruits and vegetables cleanse today. The goal is to reintroduce vitamins and healthful foods back into my diet in a shocking way. The honest truth is that I have been on a junk food binge for quite a while. My body is craving leafy greens and sweet fruits. The plan is to eat as much vegetables and fruits as I desire and drink lots of water for at least 5 days. I'd like to stick through it for 7, so wish me luck!!

A Note on Music

2009-04-21T16:46:00.008-05:00

So, I realize that my last post was about taking a hiatus from arguing and allowing people to have their own opinions, but a new trend has come to my attention that is worth mentioning. That said, I am exercising my right to fight for "an issue that I am truly passionate about"- music.

I recently noticed a sea of young high schoolers and college freshman wearing paraphernalia featuring classic rock gods. I was completely astounded to see a young generation appreciate the likes of Jimi Hendrix, Pink Floyd, Eric Clapton, Weather Report, Led Zeppelin, Queen, etc. My initial review of this uprising was nothing but supportive and positive. I was extremely excited to see a generation abandon shameful artists not unlike Blink 182 or Three Doors Down (God forbid Nickelback).

The honeymoon period of my new found cultural high hopes came to a screeching halt once I realized that it was merely just "popular" to "like" such artists- not to actually listen to or appreciate them. Sigh. My aggravation grew even further after exchanging a few words with one of these young oldies fans. He was so kind to enlighten me that all "modern" music "sucks." Wow- thank you, sir. Your profound musical opinions really have shown me the light.

My problem with this attitude stems from my musical roots. I have been listening to "classic rock" for about 12 years- drawing much of my musical inspiration from the artists of Early Days- pun intended. My passion was further nurtured as a student at the University of North Texas. While working in recording for the College of Music and generally being on campus, I was able to witness the molding of the musicians of tomorrow. It was amazing to see kids of my generation studying Jazz, Classical composition, Rock, and world music- at probably the best venue for such courses.

I guess my problem with the "I listen to oldies" and "all new music sucks" mantras is that they are basically naive. Most of the students at UNT, now mastering their instruments, have been learning from and idolizing for year the same bands that are newly popular to like. Where is it that this kid thinks "modern" bands are getting their inspiration from? The answer is always the same. Further, I just generally have a problem with people who form a blanket opinion without research. Yes, a lot of new bands suck. BUT - there are many, many, many talented musicians on the cusp of breaking into the National music scene. Perhaps check them out before writing off an entire generation of music.

On a final note, if you are not willing to dedicate yourself to changing something, then you really don't have any room to complain. Although I may not be a fan of all new music, I have a strong admiration for those who attempt to make it.

Ok, off of my soap box now.

-Sarah

The Truth Hurts, But It Doesn't Have To

2009-04-19T17:05:00.007-05:00

If you ever meditate, pray, or whatever you choose for peace, enlightenment, and self improvement, you may find yourself shaken to the core as your flaws are thrown in your face. If you can scrape yourself up for long enough to stop being bitter or excusing, you will discover that this is actually a great blessing. Your questions, although not remotely how you expected, have been answered. The beauty of human nature is of course, choice. Will you choose to continue your nasty behavior, or will you change and become a better person? This is after all, what you wanted.

Honest truth: I enjoy arguing. I am a natural debater- this will probably never change. The only problem is that it NEEDS to change. Well, maybe the direction that I channel this energy towards needs to change. I don't want to be a mean or difficult person. I don't want to fight only to win. So, I am going to stop. I am only going to fight for truth, right, and issues that I am passionate about. No more seeking victory just to make myself feel better or to put others in their place. This is not going to be easy, but almost nothing worth doing is. Admitting this to myself and to the world is no simple task, and I hope it doesn't make me seem like a terrible person. Even good people have bad habits. So, I am writing this here with the hope that you can find your peace and courage.

On another note, I finished reading Eat, Pray, Love today. I always feel sad at the end of a book. I read it quickly up until the last few chapters which I drag out for days. If it is an especially great book- like this one, finishing it is an even more difficult task. This book came into my life at the exact perfect moment which is comical seeing as how it is mostly about finding yourself and balance with the universe. I absolutely recommend this book for everyone.

I have a job interview tomorrow, so send positive thoughts my way. I am hopeful that it goes well, but I am honestly a little bit scared to make a change. I guess I'll see how it goes and then decide from there. Have a fabulous week.

- Sarah

Back Porch Musings

2009-04-13T21:03:00.013-05:00

I've always been the sort of person that is constantly seeking fun, excitement, and relaxation. Even when I'm smack in the middle of it, my mind is always pondering the next joyful event. Today, I was sitting on my patio job hunting when it occurred to me that I should take a book out and sun bathe by the pool. My heart instantly filled with excitement as I speculated how pleasant the warm sun would feel. I would lounge by the pool, enjoy my book, and think of nothing else in the world. Well, that all sounded peachy until about 5 mins in and all I could focus on was how hot I was and how cool my porch had been. I would relocate to the patio, sip some ice water and continue my endless search from there. So, I did. About 15 mins into that new venture, I was shifting and moving and completely unable to sit still. Movement is my vice. I had just purchased two chairs to laze in on my porch days before- certain that they would bring me stillness, mental productivity, and relaxation. No such luck. The present has always been a struggle for me. This sort of behavior is definitely a pattern- when I'm reading a nice book, I'm thinking of a lovely bath. In the tub, I'm contemplating taking a stroll with my dogs. On our walk, I can only imaging how great a nap would be, and fighting to fall asleep, I dream of making dinner and listening to nice music- the list goes on.

Tonight as I began to wind down- I started to think about what I wish I were doing. I've always wanted to meditate, and I have been seriously considering trying for a few days. I opened my computer to look for a few promising techniques, when I stumbled upon a friend's blog entry that named a few of his favorite guitar solos. Forgetting my original purpose, I began rummaging through my itunes library seeking MY top favorite guitar solos- for no reason at all. I did this for about 30 mins until I was content with the list I had made. Why is that I am so easily distracted from my purpose and so discontent with my current state? I WANT to be still. I WANT to meditate. I WANT to enjoy my porch and the sun, but for some unknown reason my mind will not allow this.

I scored three job interviews today, and I am celebrating with a bottle of red wine and an old friend. After creating my epic (imo of course) solo list, I was inspired to pick up my neglected acoustic guitar and play a few tunes. My guitar, which I love dearly, has been sitting in the corner of my apartment staring at me for three months now. Why is it that we so easily avoid and abandon the things we love without a second thought? My guitar, of course, is much better of a friend to me than I deserve. After a few rough warm ups, my chops came flooding back. I suppose 9 years of crap is not easily forgotten no matter how hard I try. Playing truly does bring me a sense of joy nothing can imitate. In all of my reflecting, I have come to realize that perhaps playing is the closest I will get to being still. Playing is my meditation, and I can live with that.

-Sarah

For those interested:

At Least That’s What You Said- Wilco (Jeff Tweedy, all)
Poetic- Oso Closo- (Chris McQueen, 2:25)
While My Guitar Gently Weeps -Beatles (Eric Clapton, 1:50)
Time- Pink Floyd (David Gilmour- 3:30 )
What it takes- Aerosmith (Joe Perry, 2:37)