tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17777001222159151602012-02-16T17:53:26.198-08:00My heart's meditation brings understanding. Psalm 49:3Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comBlogger3501100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-90929813732436797322012-02-16T10:28:00.005-08:002012-02-16T13:32:10.361-08:00

I think after the first year in NYC, maybe after the second, we sort of knew we wouldn't be here forever. It's just never felt like home. You get that feeling about places, if you've moved alot. However, even then we loved the city, we new we were called to be here and so we stayed. We would stay for as long as we were supposed to, be it ten years or fifteen years... We would endure during the

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-67838672928268534802012-02-08T12:59:00.000-08:002012-02-09T04:22:26.984-08:00

Let's just say, hypothetically speaking of course, I left apartment 3S New York, New York. In so many ways I think I'd absolutely love it. Obviously on this side of the Red Sea all I can think about is open space, cheep rents, driving a car, Target, silence, and normalcy. You know, all those things.But when I'm face-to-face with the reality of going one day. Of moving. Of circling a date on the

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-69695190523735560962012-02-07T08:39:00.002-08:002012-02-07T13:28:05.268-08:00

This is what I'm presenting Sunday during church. Our worship director and pastor have been intentional about having scripture presented and read during each service. In addition to bringing Truth, it provides a, sometimes creative, way to read scripture. Sometimes there is simply one reader, sometimes four, sometimes children recite or there is a congregational response. This Sunday, I'm

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-3146030351474614282012-02-06T07:45:00.000-08:002012-02-06T08:46:01.813-08:00

I realize I've been silent for awhile. So, I thought I'd post and say, I'm alive and well. Things are great, actually, as Chris and I dream and prepare and wander through life together.I'm not sure what it is but perhaps I needed a bit more than my normal "half-caf" this Monday morning. I did get my eight hours last night and had a pretty lazy Sunday afternoon- but these bright florescent lights

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-39682926845056452972012-01-24T13:58:00.000-08:002012-01-24T14:19:42.957-08:00

“MY LORD GOD, I have no idea where I am going. I do not see the road ahead of me. I cannot know for certain where it will end. Nor do I really know myself, and the fact that I think that I am following your will does not mean that I am actually doing so. But I believe that the desire to please you does in fact please you. And I hope I have that desire in all that I am doing. I hope that I will

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-88195809130576388682012-01-20T14:12:00.000-08:002012-01-20T14:37:04.803-08:00

This week between 7:30 and 8:30AM I've noticed how the tree right outside our window glows.In this golden hour the sunshine shoots down our block, rising across the East River on the other side of Queens and lighting up 62nd Street. The rumble of rush hour traffic has already started and the traffic cop hollers her commands in full voice:"Come on, come on, come on!" "Let's Go! Let's Go! Let's Go!

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-76115565768266950242012-01-17T13:05:00.000-08:002012-01-17T14:32:39.363-08:00

There is not enough yoga or acupuncture or meditation time to heal me from the smashing realities of New York City. I take them personal. I want to help, I want to pour compassion and smother love and really care--- but it's impossible to change eight million people in a week. There has to be an inner calm that is tapped into pretty regularly to remain sustained or the monster will swallow you

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-57156801562888432512012-01-12T11:53:00.000-08:002012-01-12T12:42:31.542-08:00

Regarding item three on this of possibilities, it is not going as planned. Having said this, I am quite pleased with the changes I have been able to make. Eating only fruits, veggies, nuts and seeds was only doable for about two days. I was hungry. So, I introduced some quinoa, some lentils, corn chips.... I know that I should really "take it easy" when doing a sort of detox like that- but I was

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-52692162869741614362012-01-12T11:38:00.000-08:002012-01-12T11:53:06.209-08:00

Yogurt = Dairy (but blueberries and carob are good!!) Is this even food?Soft serve fro-yo = Dairy Cheese & Meat & Wheat = NadaSugar = Not so much

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-20831417045110005562012-01-12T09:02:00.000-08:002012-01-17T14:29:01.934-08:00

Thank Goodness It's Thursday. (Yes, R is the abbreviation for Thursday, T for Tuesday.) Today is my Friday. Monday we are closed for MLK and I decided to take off Friday, just because. I love four day weekends!I've filled my schedule, with things I love of course, and have written them in my 2012 day planner. Over the four days this includes: a one-on-one personal training session in the morning,

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-64545593754914984342012-01-10T07:31:00.000-08:002012-01-10T10:26:40.596-08:00

“A true voyage of discovery is not seeking out new lands, but having new eyes”. Marcel ProustSeeing things in a new way, or with new perspective (age? experience? time?) can be life giving. It can also be very startling as you might realize nothing has changed - but you- and this is how it has really been all along. This new world is really the old world, or is it, "behold the old has been made

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-71460119346839410492012-01-04T12:59:00.000-08:002012-01-04T13:48:14.965-08:00

I usually don't make New Years resolutions. Usually, how it works in my life that is around my birthday each year I evaluate, reflect on the previous year- of my own personal life - and sort of put mini goals in place. Plus as a perfectionist, sometimes I have to ask myself why I'm setting goals in the first place. Because if it's simply to move one more notch closer to my standard of perfection,

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-74279614223773220272012-01-04T07:57:00.000-08:002012-01-04T08:53:55.669-08:00

These pictures were taken at the Farmers Market about ten days ago. Today, the temperature will struggle into the 20's, if we are lucky and I will not be heading to the farmers market. Now, vendors are selling mostly tubers and root vegetables- turnips, parsnips, carrots and sunchokes. There are still some apples left, though I've not been happy with my apple purchases lately.There are some

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-839801298650517702011-12-31T04:21:00.000-08:002011-12-31T05:04:34.410-08:00

Yesterday I spent the morning and early afternoon with Lewis and his mama in Jersey City. We had a wonderful time catching up and simply being together.We shared some wonderful goodies from Whole Foods: beets and broccoli and something called Energy Salad with peanuts, bean sprouts and raisins. Liisa was raised in Finland, where her parents still live, so her knowledge of amazing cheeses is much

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-56740592476098981242011-12-28T11:13:00.000-08:002011-12-28T11:38:56.930-08:00

I have ample time to write right now. In a office where 90% of the staff are off this week I could be sharing so many stories with you. But I've been reading and journaling and surfing the internet. I've discovered Pinterest which is highly motivational and inspiring. ....Our Christmas Even and Christmas day were really non-traditional in that Chris and I spent the days just the two of us,

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-74874595771337172722011-12-27T06:18:00.000-08:002011-12-27T06:20:45.804-08:00

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-57868417267427567982011-12-27T06:17:00.000-08:002011-12-27T06:18:29.943-08:00

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-35807697546368147902011-12-23T10:32:00.001-08:002011-12-23T11:22:31.014-08:00

Christmas in New York City has really made me realize the materialism that abounds here, not only in NYC, but in our country as a whole. We are always needing something else, wanting more and having to get some other version of something we probably already own. Walking along Fifth Avenue passing shop after boutique after designer label clothing store depresses me. I want to scream to the person

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-1968644473129398382011-12-22T13:40:00.000-08:002011-12-23T09:05:30.887-08:00

Last night I called my mama while I did a load of laundry and painted my fingernails. I realize that these things seem to conflict; how can one sort, load, and unload washers and driers with wet fingernails? How can a person talk on a cell phone while painting her nails? Well, I did it, pretty well I might add.I’ve never been a big phone talker. Except in my dating days, I guess. Spending hours

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-18275311127060105192011-12-21T05:42:00.000-08:002011-12-21T09:47:11.145-08:00

The city is still humming and the Salvation Army bell is still ringing- at each and every entrance to Grand Central Station. But this morning as I approached the Helmsley Hotel on my walk west on 42nd Street, the sidewalks were still. These “city sidewalks” were not “busy sidewalks” at 8:00AM this morning as Bing Crosby and Carole Richards crooned. This is the golden season- these are the days

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-15203572148468829812011-12-19T13:37:00.000-08:002011-12-20T14:36:25.937-08:00

I'm embarrassed to admit that in the past week I have purchased six new chapsticks/ lip glosses. That's right, the search for the perfect subtle, feminine lip shade got a little out of control. And it usually happens like this. And somehow all the lipsticks I own are all the same exact shade... Somehow.So, I thought I'd give gloss a try. Even though in the past I've disliked the lack of shine,

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-56242206296889020782011-12-19T12:34:00.000-08:002011-12-19T13:08:11.332-08:00

My head has been swimming all morning. Well, since about 9:03AM when I was spoken at and not to. When I was told "I want" and "You will" and told to "not change the subject" when I tried to inquire why or how or where this entire conversation was coming from. Some people are extremely hard to communicate with. Work with. Deal with day in and day out. My head immediately began throbbing, my ears

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-41323149632615812262011-12-18T12:33:00.000-08:002011-12-18T19:02:44.962-08:00

Sunday. Whew....I broke my own "three things a day" rule today and did about eight...1. Youth Sunday School2. Church3. Lunch out with the youth (one of the girls is moving to LA over Christmas break)4. Food Emporium (for eggs)5. CVS & Health Nuts (for hand soap and Almond Milk) 6. The Gym...7. Home again to: cook up my foods for the week &8. Finally clean the bathroom (really, really well)I hate

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-69979705983756940912011-12-17T12:32:00.000-08:002011-12-18T18:07:58.069-08:00

There were only six of us, and we were not dancing, but yesterday I got together with some sweet ladies to celebrate a birthday. We met for brunch at 2:00pm at a place called The Sunburnt Calf on the Upper West Side. Brunch is a big-time-Saturday-deal in NYC. It's a big time deal at this specific place because for just $18 one can get a huge plate of pancakes, an omelet, a burger and fries and

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-13388088227541715302011-12-16T09:29:00.000-08:002011-12-16T12:37:20.565-08:00

There's a leaping in my stomach. A fluttering in my tummy, right below my belly button. A tightness in my throat. I've never been good at confrontation. At telling someone they hurt my feelings or that I am wrong or how I am really feeling when it might put them on the defensive. When I'm angry- with a situation or with myself (this is the case more often than not) I try to distract my mind

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-21361398880349543762011-12-15T09:41:00.000-08:002011-12-15T11:48:33.683-08:00

.... or puppies panting in this case. This is my middle sister, Chrissy with her two "children," Abe and Molly. Abe is a Brussels Griffon and he really is, well, sort of unattractive. He looks like an Ewok pretty much. Poor guy. While home in Texas during Thanksgiving Chris and I spent most night with Chrissy and her husband Jeremiah in their beautiful home which she had already decorated for

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-66003071344401860462011-12-14T10:20:00.000-08:002011-12-14T10:59:57.651-08:00

It's time to share the love! It's time to squeeze out all the meanness and hate and selfish-tinted motives that drive us so much of the time....Today, as I sit at my desk behind a Christmas tree and manorah and a big bowl of M&M's (in our company's colors, with our companies name on them--- on each and every M&M-- this is not cheap people), I feel rich. I feel blessed. I know that as an American

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-51558536389403114182011-12-05T13:13:00.001-08:002011-12-05T13:31:23.194-08:00

Here are some pictures of how we spent SOME of our time in Texas.Momma and me, Thanksgiving day. We had an amazing meal that my mom prepared 100% of. She loves to cook and we love to eat so it works out well.Chris and I rode motorcycles with my dad. What an amazingly free feeling. I miss it.This is a picture my brother John took from underneath the trestle. The tiny people way up in the air are

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-22786240299959108542011-12-02T10:26:00.000-08:002011-12-02T11:09:56.360-08:00

Halls decked?Holly hung?Tree decorated?Nativity set displayed?Lights lit?Christmas in our tiny abode really isn't all that pitiful if you ask me, but it is sort of meek. We have no room to put up a Christmas tree, or hang stockings, or set out snow-globes, but we make due.I hung some garland, placed my plush reindeer atop the bookshelf and set out three or four of my favorite ornaments as little

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-25660921019276158812011-11-30T11:43:00.000-08:002011-11-30T12:10:14.309-08:00

Chris and I spent the week of Thanksgiving in Texas visiting family and friends. I always struggle after such a retreat and vacation, of sorts, to sit down and write. There is so much to say.For now, I'll just tell you what some of my favorite moments of the Trip to Texas were.1. Getting to know my best friend Lora's daughter, two year old Tessa, even more. We spent a couple of nights in the

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-56437463937601451542011-11-17T10:42:00.000-08:002011-11-17T11:06:58.664-08:00

The pace is frustrating. Heavy, like the rumbling, bass beat of that rattling music coming from a car that happens to stop in front of your house. Shaking your organs. Hurting your insides. You put a hand over your chest, instinctively, just to make sure that your heart is still there and still beating somewhat regularly. The pace is killing me. I’m tired of being yelled at, and tired of

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-34181271077883324092011-11-16T10:44:00.001-08:002011-11-16T11:29:47.541-08:00

It's raining. And I'm hungry. And tired.And I want to go home.I've been eating less and working out more (in mental preparation for the abundance of food that will be everywhere next week) and it's making me a complete grump. I think. Remember the cabbage I made a week ago? I'm still eating on it... I'm tired of cabbage. I need a burger with cheese and bacon and a side of ranch dressing to dip

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-687079031079592242011-11-14T10:19:00.001-08:002011-11-14T10:55:00.424-08:00

I am a homebody. Normally, I'm content in the stillness of our small, own space. We rarely, DO anything on weekends- considering that we live in New York City. We hardly take advantage of the night life or dance scenes or live music or "no cover" bands. On most evenings we simply choose to stay in.But this weekend was different. Friday night, before the sun even set, we had a wedding to attend. A

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-51868536340713350532011-11-09T13:18:00.000-08:002011-11-09T13:58:33.142-08:00

1 ginormous head of cabbage - $3.001 onion- .60 cents2 tomatoes, 2 zucchini & 1 clove of garlic- $6.002 big fat carrots- $1.65All this plus maybe a little brown rice and turkey sausage (I gotta keep my man full, and veggies just might not do it.) You'd actually probably laugh if you saw how I portion this completed stew out. I ladle "mine" into my individual corningware: veggies only. I add some

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-16317273796189925572011-11-09T10:11:00.000-08:002011-11-09T11:24:04.621-08:00

Have I mentioned that I'm on a budget?! Well, I've been trying to convince myself how arts and craft supplies are a necessity. How I need art supplies more than listerine or ziplock bags or a lip liner.Saturday I FINALLY made it to the new (about two years old) Michael on the Upper West Side. This required a train uptown, then a bus across town but it was worth it.I will be honest and admit that

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-3982690504756023772011-11-02T08:55:00.000-07:002011-11-02T12:39:54.791-07:00

Today I ordered a tall half-caf from Starbucks for $1.91. It is the second of the three Starbucks I pass on my walk across 42nd Street to Madison Avenue. Across Madison Avenue there is another location. I drank my coffee with a splash of half and half, no sugar.The girl in line behind me was about five foot tall. Wearing no makeup and using a cane at the very young age of about 35 I'd say, she

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-66082305975446274692011-11-01T09:03:00.000-07:002011-11-01T09:48:16.061-07:00

This morning as I grabbed a few peanuts and candycorn on my way out to the gym at 6:00AM I thought about what would be the best place to hit up the after Halloween candy sale....But then I thought better. Also, if you haven't yet tried candy corn and dry roasted peanuts together- do it. It's a perfect mix. I used to love hitting up Target or CVS for after the holiday candy sales- especially

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-63131056769099002332011-10-27T14:39:00.000-07:002011-10-27T14:47:42.369-07:00

Oh, I just don't know how I'd make it without this man: my supporter, my cheerleader, my best friend and the one I have the most fun with. Even spending the night shopping for boring things at Bed Bath and Beyond & doing laundry (like we are tonight...) sounds perfectly fine to me. Glorious even.

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-50799236084102397152011-10-26T14:13:00.000-07:002011-10-26T14:45:59.488-07:00

Today when I finally went to lunch at 4:00 and I found myself really wanting to just sit in the dressing room at Ann Taylor Loft with the door shut and read my book I thought about this guy.(The white haired man in the toboggan- in the photo. See him?) First- don't think I was starving. I ate a Think Thin bar (that I got for FREE yesterday outside GCS where they were passing out samples and

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-17566459524186019662011-10-25T08:39:00.000-07:002011-10-26T09:11:41.612-07:00

While we were in Massachusetts we visited an community of artist. Well, it was really more like a district where artists worked and/ or lived and sold their art. I find it simply exhilarating wandering the sidewalks and peeking at all that has been created. It's permission to snoop and investigate and become a detective of sorts- or maybe that is just the journalist in me.Walking by studio after

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-16484044681939447822011-10-24T23:00:00.000-07:002011-10-25T13:03:59.895-07:00

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-17073510139705835532011-10-21T13:35:00.000-07:002011-10-21T13:58:50.152-07:00

"Against a bright blue sky, clouds billowed up into a feast of white radiance. In my whole life, I have never been so deeply impressed by a mingling harmony of white shapes and forms such as I saw this day. If you could gather together all the froth and champagne bubbles that have flowed so abundantly at moments of celebration in the course of human history, it would be nothing compared with

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-17846556277373901702011-10-20T12:32:00.000-07:002011-10-26T14:48:20.694-07:00

I got my engagement ring back on Saturday. This past Saturday. It was promised to me on August 16th. But now I have a brand new setting and my finger feels much better.My bloodwork came back normalFREE carrot cake cupcake just by whispering "twenty-four karats" at SprinklesSunshine and no rain- and more fall like temperaturesA weekend ahead with nothing written on the calendarPumpkin Vitatops $40

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-22527713615770295732011-10-18T09:46:00.000-07:002011-10-18T09:51:24.101-07:00

You love me in the sunshine’s warmth on my shoulders, in the winds rustle of the ginkgo tree outside my window, Ocean waves methodically rolling in and out in and out in and out. Before all of these were created, you loved. Before sands were poured from your hand and the mountains were shaped, you loved. From dust you breathed life into man, and to crumbs I will eventually return.

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-16291609115482645202011-10-14T13:37:00.000-07:002011-10-14T13:40:04.641-07:00

Portland Maine, Oct. 2011

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-30086019607857870012011-10-13T10:46:00.000-07:002011-10-14T14:07:37.538-07:00

Sometimes I do irrational things. Like spend $9.00 on a manicure (The Thrill of Brazil) instead of using that money for something more responsible. Like groceries or laundry or the earbuds I need to buy to replace the ones that are currently falling apart. Every time I go to the gym I am in fear of getting shocked because the earbud itself is popping apart. Nothing like a jolt of energy hitting

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-21187475683893699942011-10-11T09:55:00.000-07:002011-10-11T10:16:22.442-07:00

Well, I hope she doesn't mind, because I'm just going to announce it right here, on my blog: I have a friend who is going to be on Who Wants to be a Millionaire? this coming Monday, October 18th. Quite frankly I think it is an amazing accomplishment in itself. I mean, the testing and auditioning that she's had to go through already --- then to make it to the show itself, well I'm pretty sure that

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-5008414964333120232011-10-10T11:00:00.000-07:002011-10-10T14:45:36.691-07:00

Portland, Maine: worlds away from the tall pine trees and fine blond sand of East Texas, but is still felt like "the real world." Where men wear blue collars and work boots and drive pick-up trucks. Where people live within communities- places their families have been for generations, hundreds of years perhaps. People play in parks, mow their yards, pick their children up from school in minivans

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-5562670656163489232011-10-10T09:19:00.000-07:002011-10-10T10:57:14.911-07:00

For our annual fall anniversary get away (Five Year Anniversary) this year we stayed in Boston. While Chris has spent some days in and around Boston, I have only driven through a couple of times. And while we did sleep only a couple of blocks from Boston University and were in Boston each day- this really wasn't a Boston trip either.Some really dear friends of ours that previously lived in NY now

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-38387462494332916132011-10-05T13:06:00.000-07:002011-10-09T16:24:51.206-07:00

I know I've written several times previously about how I take much pleasure in getting a good deal. Bargain hunting and comparison shopping are two things I do quite well.But when it comes to just plain old free- I will go to extremes. Today I had my first ever free Sprinkles cupcake. And it was glorious. It was too easy and very gratifying. NYC has dozens of cupcake places, and each one has

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-1465730573530104852011-09-30T14:15:00.000-07:002011-09-30T15:04:07.079-07:00

Let's talk about pigeons. Okay? I strongly dislike them. No, I hate them, I really do. I place pigeons in the same category at rats, roaches and "rodents of unusual size" in the Princess Bride. They are disgusting. Now, I feel bad about this for a couple reasons: 1. I have birds tattooed on my back. I like most of those creatures in the aves classification of species. I've memorized the verse in

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-27755488418498521442011-09-29T14:02:00.001-07:002011-09-29T14:29:19.535-07:00

When I went to the Roller Derby a couple of weeks ago with Erin, I was just in amazed (again) at the ability and strength of these women. I mean who doesn't like a tough, strong girl on skates? Plus, they look so intimidating with those mouth guards.I'd love to be that fierce. But I'm not an athlete. I'm not athletic. I'm just girly and I'll be the first to admit I like shoes, Sephora, and

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-76996184817138186862011-09-29T11:00:00.000-07:002011-10-04T14:52:21.134-07:00

The other day I was headed out to lunch and I asked a co-worker if it was chilly outside, so I'd know whether or not to take my jacket. (and/ my scarf, or my umbrella...) "It's cold. But you'll get used to it." Really? I've been here five years and I'm still not used to it. I don't want to get used to it. I have a different definition of cold than most of these people. I have a different internal

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-30972159347701097862011-09-28T13:05:00.000-07:002011-09-28T13:36:02.745-07:00

Today in the mail I received, New York's 50 Best Places to Find Peace and Quiet. So, on my lunch hour I wandered over to 430 East 43rd Street to The Ford Foundation Building. As Wikipedia states,"It was designed in 1967 by the firm of Roche0-Dinkeloo, the Ford Foundation Building was the first large-scale architectural building in the country to devote a substantial portion of its space to

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-47414134081247966512011-09-27T12:44:00.000-07:002011-09-28T12:00:02.895-07:00

It's been two full weeks since I've sat down to this thing. That's too long. I'll admit that there have been moments I thought, "I should write" but then I get distracted. With Sudoku or adding items to my Fresh Direct shopping cart or thinking I have nothing to say. When truth is: I have so much to say. I'll begin with the latest: what's going to today. Tonight is the first Really Big Youth

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-37998957195376888892011-09-14T08:33:00.001-07:002011-09-14T11:10:32.590-07:00

I had my first bowl of pumpkin "infused" oatmeal this morning for breakfast. (This means I add about 1/2 C. of Libby's to my regular oatmeal- with a little cinnamon-mmmm!)And now, at almost twelve noon, I'm munching on a Honeycrisp that I purchased at the Farmer's market I walked through on my way into work this morning. I already had my lunch in tow: baby lettuces with edamame, cucumbers with a

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-42750981057353016742011-09-09T13:48:00.000-07:002011-09-09T14:46:07.018-07:00

Today on my lunch hour I had four (or maybe it was five, I didn't want to look to long...) vials of blood sucked out of my arm. Every time I have blood drawn I think, "Why would anyone want to do this for a living?" I mean, perhaps this person is not currently in their career of choice or maybe they are working toward another job in the medical field, however I can hardly standing sitting in that

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-19980376125676687762011-09-08T09:05:00.000-07:002011-09-08T12:06:27.277-07:00

This morning I was considering getting a cab (frugal, on a budget, little ole' me), as I heard the rain beating heavily against our living room window. It was pouring at 6:30am. This is the third day of rain, heavy and hard, but by the time I left my apartment around 7:30 it had let up tremendously and my umbrella simply kept the drizzle off of my face. I decided to take the bus.I look like quite

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-92070335289066536922011-09-06T09:47:00.000-07:002011-09-06T13:28:56.689-07:00

With only a couple weeks left until the beginning of fall (September 23rd) summer has made his days known. This summer in New York we had some ridiculously high temperatures and some very humid days. We felt the winds blow the rains fall and the very earth shake under our feet. I am ready for fall, and even dug out my navy J. Crew blazer to wear in today's 63 degree temperatures. BUT, it's

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-30690578051810648412011-09-02T11:50:00.001-07:002011-09-02T12:13:38.130-07:00

Does anyone else go "shopping" just to try on clothes in the dressing room without the intention to buy anything? Or, is that just me? Sometimes when I just need a thick, strong, heavy does of reality and I step into Banana or GAP or Ann Taylor or somewhere with well lit dressing rooms and lots of skirts, blouses and slacks to choose from. Here's the deal: lately (like, all of August) I've

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-85048111299732461042011-08-30T08:20:00.001-07:002011-08-30T10:25:08.352-07:00

I shouldn't have a problem sitting here writing. The blinking cursor should be a sort of rhythm, not a intrusive drumming or beating in the frontal lobe of my brain. Perhaps it has something to do with being stuck inside for nearly forty-eight hours this weekend, but sitting behind a desk for forty hours this week does not sound pleasurable whatsoever. I should take advantage of this opportunity,

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-28705593114585994272011-08-29T13:22:00.000-07:002011-08-29T14:13:28.443-07:00

Why does being inside for 48 hours completely drain me? I feel lethargic and completely lazy. Doing nothing makes me want to do nothing. As you've already heard, we survived Hurricane Irene. Unfortunately, she arrived on Saturday, and ruined a perfectly good weekend. No work was missed, but our church services were canceled Sunday morning. The roughest part, the part that was felt across the

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-242194675420808582011-08-25T10:18:00.001-07:002011-08-25T11:34:17.464-07:00

In one weeks time I will have experienced my first earthquake, my first MRI and my first New York City hurricane. Because my nerves really haven't had enough yet! I was one of the people who felt the jolt that rocked the city on Tuesday. Sitting nineteen stories above the earth and one block West of Grand Central Station we swayed and shook for about thirty seconds or so. That was enough for me.

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-68494703011960188812011-08-18T09:27:00.000-07:002011-08-18T10:58:30.443-07:00

Monday at the farmers market I bought the heaviest head of cabbage I could find- because they were $2.50 a head, so obviously I wanted the biggest bang for my buck. For $5.00 I got cabbage, one yellow neck squash, one zucchini and the strongest onion I've ever smelled. I only realized this when I was sitting at my doctor's office at 5:15 thinking, "someone has the worst BO..." I had to tow all

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-90536879770521554742011-08-15T05:52:00.000-07:002011-08-15T06:43:46.866-07:00

Good Monday morning. It's a new week and we're half way through August already. It's payday. And here in the Northeast it has been raining for twenty-four hours straight. Gutters are bubbling over, small branches are scattered all along the sidewalks and transportation is a nightmare. Rain is in the forecast for the next week! Of course, I haven't had to get on the subway all weekend so I'm

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-26236625823991176732011-08-09T08:31:00.000-07:002011-08-15T05:52:12.882-07:00

It's only Tuesday, and I'm already wanting to get in my rubber life boat and sail ashore. I want out before this ship starts to sink. Leaving me doggy paddling before I sink from exhaustion. I'm not sure why, we are in the middle of the dog days of summer and things are very slow, but at work is not where I'd like to be. This past weekend was one of the nicest in a long, long time. Chris and I

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-55090009882007705262011-08-05T18:17:00.000-07:002011-08-07T18:27:47.295-07:00

Rehearsal, August 4, 2006- The day before my sister's weddingMom doing her mom thing...Chrissy with Grandaddy Sort of a silly face, I'll admit, but classic Chrissy with those big brown eyes.The only brown-eyed child- the other three of us with blue. Chris and Stefani- August 5, 2006 (two more months until our big day...) LB, Dad and StefHappy Fifth Anniversary Jeremiah & Chrissy Honey

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-32692951664899738872011-08-03T12:13:00.000-07:002011-08-04T14:50:55.359-07:00

Chris has been home one week today. In spite of a case of malaria (we think) we've been doing well.I'm not kidding about the malaria, within twelve hours of being home he had flu-like symptoms and I thought he may have food poisoning. By the time I got off work on Friday at 1:00, he had 102.8 fever, which sent me into a panic. After calling my sister the pharmacist in a tizzy and running through

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-84979682778800032302011-08-03T06:52:00.000-07:002011-08-03T09:36:15.935-07:00

I realize I never completed my summary of my meditation/ prayer retreat so I'll start there:The number one thing that I walked away with was that I have to carve out time in my day/ week/ life to just Be. Internal rejuvenation and care is more just as, if not MORE important that external maintenance. I'm trying to give myself more grace and just be present. God can meet us in the present. In

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-60885672487466177912011-07-28T12:01:00.000-07:002011-08-01T12:28:10.088-07:00

According to the arrivals status as John F. Kennedy International Airport, Delta Airlines Flight 9348 arriving from Amsterdam has landed, which means Chris is on American soil again and I hope that by the time I get home at 5:30pm this afternoon, he's made it there too!In addition to this I have been thinking about wonderful things I've experienced and enjoyed over the past few days. (Even since

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-65126036672012912532011-07-27T12:45:00.001-07:002011-07-27T13:47:16.616-07:00

By Saturday afternoon word had gotten around camp that I was not in a twelve step program. Oh, and I wasn't Catholic.... (I was the only one, as far as I know, in our group of about 50 that wasn't in some way involved in a twelve-step program.) During a conversation with a few people someone asked me, "What do you know about twelve-step programs?" I responded, "Well, last week I Googled

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-25113581644234105652011-07-27T11:57:00.000-07:002011-07-27T12:10:21.559-07:00

Fireworks?Thunder?Just across the Hudson River, what I hear but can not see is artillery.GunsWeapons that ring out echoing throughout these hills.And I'm sitting at a monastery with echinacea and marigolds with saints and chipmunks and real monksOdd.The lilies surround meorangeyellowQueen Anne's laceBig bushes of day liliesreaching toward the

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-87407292927641752832011-07-27T08:19:00.001-07:002011-07-27T12:28:04.978-07:00

This past weekend was simply amazing. It was just as it was meant to be- all things considered. It was a test of my faith, endurance and complete reliance on the grace of God. First- let me (again) comment on the heat. I know I'm from Texas and I know it's been over 100 degrees there for what, like 25 days in a row. I get it. It's hot. However, what Texans don't understand is that New York is not

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-62232898281202135322011-07-22T08:34:00.000-07:002011-07-27T12:29:32.731-07:00

Here's a picture from February. Brrrrrr? Chilly. Freezing Cold, right?Today the heat index in NYC is supposed to reach 115 degrees. And I worry about another blackout. My mind immediately goes there. I can not imagine what that would be like, especially with Chris gone- not that he could protect me from heat or whatever it is I'm worried about- but at least he'd be here with me. Going through

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-52934726936441438442011-07-20T12:21:00.000-07:002011-07-21T07:10:41.877-07:00

Whew! What a week. My mom left yesterday after a week visiting me here, in New York City. This was the first time, in a long time, where we've been alone- just mom and Stef. We dined where we liked, shopped where we wanted, rested when we needed too. I think she really enjoyed her time here- having been to NYC many times in the past four years, we did more "off the beaten path" things. The real

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-49038497186907933772011-07-11T12:22:00.000-07:002011-07-12T08:19:58.325-07:00

...not if you care for me.I've liked the song My Funny Valentine since I was in middle school. The way I remember it I was introduced to the song by my choir instructor... but that could be all wrong. I had this thing for jazz music during the 7th and 8th grade and bought cassette tapes of Manhattan Transfer.Today I heard the song again while sitting in Bryant Park. Each weekday afternoon from

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-77235322288241661132011-07-07T12:11:00.000-07:002011-07-08T12:31:03.526-07:00

Next week my mom will be visiting me here in NYC. Since she's been here several times, we are trying to decide on events, activities and locations that we haven't really frequented all that much. New places. On the list are some more obvious locations:The Metropolitan Museum of ArtThe CloistersSaint John the Divine Then there are the not so obvious:Korea town for lunch - this is a tiny block or

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-9604215496260471992011-07-06T14:07:00.000-07:002011-07-08T07:24:06.208-07:00

Since moving only a couple weeks ago, I'm finally getting around to uploading my pictures from my camera to our computer. The title of the image folder on our Mac is "Most of June," because that is what it is. There are pictures from our Lake Placid trip, a baby shower, a rooftop party and my sister's visit to NYC. I will show some of them to you soon, I promise. In the mean time- this is what

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-27973736899211329872011-07-05T12:50:00.000-07:002011-07-06T07:59:11.802-07:00

This holiday weekend I spent as a single lady, in the city while Chris is traveling. Friday morning was tear-filled and bittersweet as I left for work, knowing that he would be loading a bus for JFK airport in a few short hours to head to Rwanda. But, we made it through.Now, it's hard for me when I consider texting him or when I think, "Oh, I'll tell Chris about this tonight." Then within seconds

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-88493322305318612652011-06-28T09:28:00.000-07:002011-06-29T13:42:53.948-07:00

Today the last day of school for public school children here in NYC, thus the last day for teachers and some (those that work nine months out of the year) administrators. Today is Chris's last day -- actually Thursday will be, but when the kids aren't there, let's just say it's a much more enjoyable place.This week is his last week of working as an Assistant Principal. In August he will be on

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-23700611181325407332011-06-27T14:25:00.000-07:002011-06-27T14:55:53.348-07:00

It's been awhile.Too long.I'm sorry....I've had ALOT going on, but here are few things I have coming up in the week ahead, and hopefully I'll be able to tell you more about the "alot going on" later this week.1. I will start yoga on Friday. It was a Group-on Deal, 30 days for $30. And it's two blocks from our new apartment. 2. Yes, today marks one week in our new place on 62nd Street. We are

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-49386257004652640982011-06-17T09:38:00.000-07:002011-06-17T09:56:58.881-07:00

This morning is the last time I will commute to work from our apartment on 92nd Street and First Avenue. Walking east toward the 4/5/6 train the trek is mostly uphill. Insanity when it's rainy, or snowing, or humid or 97 degrees; and it's usually one of those things 90% of the time.Monday we move to our new apartment on 62nd street. This will mean I can walk to work (when it's not rainy or

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-54564547797414939552011-06-16T10:46:00.000-07:002011-06-17T05:30:32.867-07:00

Literally. This morning, when I sat up and put my feet on the floor, the room would not stop moving. So, I laid back down. And I continued to try and get up for about an hour- making trips to the bathroom the entire time. After relocating to the living room and cranking down the air conditioner I still felt awful: nauseous, sick to my stomach, still moving round and round and round. At 7:30AM I

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-34514415217264648632011-06-06T13:56:00.000-07:002011-06-07T05:47:38.618-07:00

Summer is here, where "things to do" abound in New York City. Last Tuesday night Chris and I saw Ray LaMontagne play in Central Park. It was an amazing performance, and for New York City, intimate and just great. (Current favorite Ray songs: Lord Willing and the Creek Don't Rise, Shelter and Repo Man.... But really, is there a bad Ray song...?) The Chambers are fairly new to the wonder that is

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-63072853078143353152011-06-01T14:20:00.000-07:002011-06-02T08:45:58.484-07:00

If you've seen me lately, maybe you've noticed. Maybe you haven't.My left hand has been bare for about a month now. An entire month: no engagement ring, no wedding band, just a bare finger constantly feeling lighter than it should. That ring has been mine for almost six years now. It's been my identity.I never take my ring off- except if I'm lifting weights at the gym. Well, if I'm planning on

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-88046326426079570572011-06-01T09:05:00.000-07:002011-06-01T14:20:16.465-07:00

Can I just be honest with you?Can I tell you what I want, what Stefani would like? Here's the deal:Just a little space (not too much, not bedrooms I never go in, not two bathrooms, just a space for my shoes and purses and tubs of clothes I'm currently not wearing but can't seem to part with)Some windowsSomething green to look at outside those windowsQuietnessA non-anxious pace outside my

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-68879546527591680232011-05-24T11:36:00.000-07:002011-05-25T11:13:33.299-07:00

Today, I took a couple of those things that give me knots in my neck and did something about them. There are a some things in my life- ideas, programs, relationships that begin with good intentions, but end up dragging me down none the less. So, today in an effort to BE instead of DO, I:1. Unsubscribed from several daily email that I receive. These stress me out, especially since I carry a smart

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-43520317377306694802011-05-23T12:31:00.000-07:002011-05-23T13:33:53.718-07:00

I like books. I love books. I like buying books and keeping books and loaning out my books and borrowing books. I hardly ever get rid of my books, because I usually only buy books that I know I will want to read again and again. Or maybe I hope that I will read again and again (It's always a good idea, but then when I do pick up Eat Pray Love again, or Bird by Bird, or The Bell Jar, I think, "Oh,

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-31293655097889336942011-05-18T10:13:00.000-07:002011-05-18T13:28:40.724-07:00

I can not relate to this picture. I don't understand beaches or white fences along the shore or lobster boats or wearing navy colored canvas shoes without socks. I wish I knew more of these parts of New England. I hope to seriously, set aside time to get out to those bordering states that are within reach. It is possible to take day trips to other states- something impossible where I'm from.It's

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-63468203385975429192011-05-18T08:54:00.000-07:002011-05-18T08:58:54.004-07:00

On 5/17/11 9:08 AM, "Stefani Chambers"wrote:Hello- I purchased your honey at my local health food store, Food For Health, on 3rd Avenue between 92nd and 93rd Streets, and wanted to know more about your honey.Not that I question the legitimacy of your honey, I just was wondering if you could tell me a bit more about your location, process, and authenticity of your honey.Are you a member of the NYC

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-194023417973895722011-05-10T12:26:00.000-07:002011-05-11T06:54:42.850-07:00

Yes this is local, Upper East side honey that I got at my health food store. Even though this tiny jar- okay it's about 10 ounces, was $11.00- it was worth it. I have been enjoying my Coconut Butter, as well, that I got for by birthday. I have used it to cook with a couple of times, but mostly I just eat it on popcorn, warm toast (well, when I was eating toast) or, my favorite, by the spoonful.

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-58399574851035669692011-05-09T09:07:00.000-07:002011-05-09T12:00:39.206-07:00

I am deciding today, right here and right now, I've got to get off this island more than I am. Period. In the past six months the furthest I've traveled is Bear Mountain. That's all. I think I've been to Jersey City three times, Roosevelt Island no less than five, Astoria and Flushing Meadows Park in Queens and that is it. I have got to get out of here. It's easier, for me anyway, to consider

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-28436436761099573622011-05-09T05:43:00.000-07:002011-05-09T07:55:08.407-07:00

I realize it's been a week since my last post. It's not that I haven't had time to write, but I've been filling my writing time with research time. Researching where we might be living in July. Searching for doctors online: MD, ND, physical therapy, counselors, specialists... anyone that might take my insurance. And these are things I absolutely hate doing: calling doctors, making appointments,

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-54650296598828606752011-05-01T04:38:00.000-07:002011-05-02T10:17:15.444-07:00

A few weeks ago I volunteered at Saint Catherine's Park. The work involved cleaning leaves out of the flower beds and doing a little hedging around the entrance into the park. I enjoyed it so much that after our church initiated "community service day" I've decided to become a regular at the park. Yesterday was the second morning I've spent in the flower beds at the park and, while it's not

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-71717260759167697012011-04-29T10:39:00.000-07:002011-04-29T11:25:12.931-07:00

Flexibility. Change of plans. Spontaneous. Call it what you will, I struggle with all of them. I have a calendar, a planner, a list and I really strive to stick with it. Even if nothing is on my agenda for the day, I can't suddenly meet you for brunch with an hours notice. I'm not likely to travel downtown for drinks when you call me at 6:00pm on a Saturday night. I'm just like that. If I have

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-6700538271825412042011-04-28T11:26:00.000-07:002011-04-29T10:38:54.487-07:00

It's amazing what a week can do. Or forty days. I started out lent giving up processed foods. And I did miss crackery-snack things, canned soups and Luna Bars. (I am in love with Chocolate Peppermint Luna Bars.) Then, about three weeks into Lent, I started going to the Yinova Center. For all practical purposes lets say they specialize in Acupuncture, Chinese Medicine and women's health, for the

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-54332073583797242962011-04-26T12:34:00.000-07:002011-04-27T03:55:58.038-07:00

Saturday I didn't get out of my pajamas. There I said it. It was a rainy, foggy, muggy day- so the weather was perfect for lounging. And even though we left the the apartment for a trip to the library and the grocery store- I still kept my yoga pants and long-sleeved t-shirt on. I simply threw on my galoshes and a raincoat and Viola! New York City here I come! I did go to the gym too--- again,

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-28000457559248167472011-04-25T12:21:00.000-07:002011-04-27T03:48:25.829-07:00

(Warning: This is not our baby!)Last Friday our offices were closed and Chris was on Spring Break, so taking it easy was on the agenda! While Chris was off work last week, I've enjoyed coming home to a tidy house and even a nice seafood gumbo dinner one night (a really amazing meal!)- He really does well, putting away clean dishes, doing a load of laundry here and there. He even changed the

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-63400213730672639512011-04-19T10:21:00.001-07:002011-04-19T11:13:03.095-07:00

Last night I roasted a two bunches of asparagus, quite a few Brussels sprouts and an entire Spanish onion. It's amazing how much flavor can be brought out in roasting veggies- squash, bell peppers, zucchini or eggplant. Deliciousness abounds!I toss the chopped veggies with salt, pepper, garlic powder and olive oil. After spreading them on a cookie sheet I leave them in the oven at about 375

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1777700122215915160.post-83581813781156921412011-04-14T12:12:00.000-07:002011-04-16T13:46:37.720-07:00

Monday, was absolutely gorgeous here, in the New York. The first warm, non-winter feeling day in a long, long time. That's why at 10:45pm Sunday night I decided to take a "sick" day Monday. Okay, I didn't really decide Chris decided for me. Or, really, we decided together.We rented a $80 Zip Car- a Honda Civic- and hit the road at 9:00AM, North- to Bear Mountain. Chris would have preferred the

Stefanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07342010657002460537noreply@blogger.com