Lyrical Journey

After these Messages

2012-01-30T06:00:00.000-07:00

Remember those TV shows that used to send you to commercial by saying, "We'll be right back after these messages..."

This crazy project I'm working on has finally reached the point where something has to break - and since work (like those commercials) pay the bills, I'm going to take a bit of a blogging break until we hit our deadline.

Until then, here is the song I sing the most these days...my boss' ring tone which seems to go off every few minutes. It's become a bit of a running joke in the team - the phone rings, we all sing, then we start giggling because frankly, we aren't that good.

Michael Buble - Feeling Good

Headed North

2012-01-28T06:00:00.000-07:00

I'm making a surprise (to me) trip to Switzerland for work in the next few days.

I'm praying it won't be too cold and snowy - I'm packed for life in Turkey not Switzerland, and while I consider myself an experienced packer, a surprise trip like this can find the best of us shivering.

These photos are from my trip in October - and I'm sure the weather won't be this nice - but a girl can hope. If nothing else I plan to enjoy the cheese and chocolate.

I got bored last week and needed some new music and stumbled across Scooter McGavin's list of awesome mash-ups - I fell in love with Mighty Mike's Eden Snow.

As the Storm Rolls Through

2012-01-25T06:00:00.000-07:00

The past few months have felt a bit like being in a storm - at times so dark and cloudy I couldn't see too far ahead, and yet there was always beauty in those bright flashes of light and the ever changing landscape.

Today, I'm just starting to see a corner of blue sky telling me the worst is over. That life will get back into a more normal rhythm, one that includes weekends and work weeks that don't cross the 80 hour mark! I'm excited to find that new normal.

Until the sun peaks its head out again - I'm going to enjoy the last of the clouds as they rush by and look forward to those sunny days I know will come.

Alexi Murdoch - Toward the Sun

Brunch on the Water

2012-01-23T06:00:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we decided we had to get out of the office, so we headed down to a cafe on the Bosphorus for brunch. The cafe was on a wharf out over the water, the view was spectacular and the food was wonderful.

After weeks of non-stop work, I couldn't believe how energised I felt after a few hours away from the computer. And it made me so eager to explore the different neighborhoods here in Istanbul - it seems like they all have their own unique personalities - one of my very favorite parts of living in a large city.

Being this close to the water was such a peaceful way to spend the morning - even if it did leave me wanting to find a friend with a boat so we could sail up and down the Bosphorus! I can see it now - a boat, a picnic and Brooke Fraser singing: Sailboats.

Are you a brunch fan? It may just be my favorite meal to eat out - there is something inherently lazy about it - you don't go to brunch expecting to hurry - you go expecting a relaxed experience, and all that lovely food.

Friday Musings

2012-01-20T06:00:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I have just 3 more weeks left here before I head home for a break. Istanbul has been a great experience and even though work has meant that I haven't had a ton of time to explore, I've seen enough that I'm already anticipating my next trip. Not only will the days be getting a bit longer by the time my next trip rolls around, I won't be working weekends any more so I'll have time to explore and see more of the city.

I feel like I haven't even scratched the surface of all there is to explore here, it seems that at every turn there is something new that fascinates and intrigues me. I can wait to see and experience more of the art, design and culture.

I hope you have an amazing weekend! Do you have anything fun planned?

AM - What You Hide

Pieces of Me

2012-01-18T06:00:00.000-07:00

I was searching for a photo challenge I could participate in this year. With my work schedule I knew most wouldn't work and I'd give up a few weeks in because I couldn't fit it in, but when I saw Urban Muser's In the Picture Challenge I knew I'd found just the thing.

Not only will the challenge keep me focussed on taking photos and improving my skills, it will force me to do something that scares me - take photos of myself and share them. I've seen other self-portrait ("selfie") challenges out there and have been intrigued but also terrified at the thought of participating. But I've decided it is time to overcome that fear.

Every couple of weeks there will be a prompt for a self portrait - I'll do my best to capture something and then work up the nerve to share it here. Twenty-six photos in a year - even I should be able to keep up.

The first prompt, pieces of me, let me ease myself into the project.

At the very least this project will at least help me learn had to use the timer on my camera!

My hands feature prominently is this week's photo, which had me humming an old Dido song, Take My Hand.

Unobstructed View

2012-01-16T06:00:00.000-07:00

Not long ago, work took me to the main Istanbul City office. I had heard from my coworkers that the view from the office building's cafeteria was amazing - and they were right! It was a fantastic vantage point to see some of the mosques, the aqueduct, the Bosphorus and a large part of the central city.

One thing I've loved about working here is that most offices have a cafeteria and lunch is served to everyone free of charge. I love not having to worry about packing a lunch, or finding time to go out. But I also love sampling some of the local food and have gotten to know the server in our small office well enough that even though we don't speak the same language, he's figured out I don't eat meat - and always want smaller portions.

But the thing I like most is that everyone: from the head of the office, to the receptionist, to the cleaning crew all eat together. It breaks down walls in a unique way. It is a custom I think would work well in more places. Of course, it would be best if all office cafeterias' had a view like the one from the City office.

The project I'm working on Istanbul is still taking up all of my time - including my blog commenting time - I miss checking in with my blogging friends so I can't wait til life gets back to a somewhat normal schedule.

Death Cab for Cutie: Unobstructed View

Friday Bliss

2012-01-13T06:00:00.000-07:00

Are you as ready for Friday as I am? Even though we are working through the weekends right now, there is something about the arrival of Friday which makes me happy. What is your favorite way to unwind at the end of a long week? Do you like to go out on Fridays? Or do you like to spend them at home planning how you'll spend your weekend?

Lately Friday has been an evening for me to take a breath and catch up on a bit of entertainment from home, maybe one of my favorite TV shows, a book - or even just a bit of music. Is it possible my Friday night preferences are a sign of my age.

Just when I start to feel homesick, I'll walk by something like this, and remember our world is smaller that it used to be.

A song to carry you into the weekend, Fink: This is the Thing.

Local Color

2012-01-11T06:00:00.000-07:00

Spending so much time over the past 6 years traveling and exploring new countries has given me a greater love for color, pattern and design. As I walk through the streets I find myself seeking out those sites that are not only unique to the local but that showcase the color, pattern and texture of each city. India was so rich in this way that it sparked my interest in photography. Until I started spending large amounts of time there, I routinely said I was a terrible photographer and had given up trying. But in India I became determined to improve - I so badly wanted to create the kind of photos that would capture the amazing things I saw every day.

I still have so much to learn, but I love knowing that Istanbul is a city full of inspiration that will encourage me to keep trying.

What motivates you to keep creating - even when you aren't improving at the rate you thought/hoped you would?

I heard this song on a TV show last week and it drove me nuts until I tracked it down. I knew it was a cover, but for the life of me I couldn't remember who had released the original - maybe because the two sounded so very different, which for me is a sign of a great cover. Lissie with a cover of Metallica's "Nothing Else Matters."

Turkish Delight

2012-01-09T06:00:00.000-07:00

I had heard of Turkish Delight before arriving here - but honestly I had no idea what it was. I've now learned it is a sweet gel made of starch and sugar. It comes in what seems to be endless varieties, some that I like more than others. My favorite so far is a variety filled with nuts and covered in dark chocolate (because let's be honest, pretty much everything involving dark chocolate, or chocolate of any kind, is delicious.)

You can buy it everywhere - the grocery store, the corner market and in sweet shops - I'm convinced the Turkish have a bit of a sweet tooth judging simply by the number of Turkish Delight and Baklava shops I see.

Since it is January, and like everyone else, I'm focussed on eating healthy, I'm avoiding making purchases as these shops. Wish me luck.

Have you tried Turkish Delight? Do you have a favorite variety or brand I should try (when I give up my January healthy ways?)

Just for fun, here's what I listened to while I wrote this post: Lykke Li, I Know Places.

Ankara

2012-01-06T06:00:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I spent a few days in Ankara, the national capitol of Turkey. I was there for work meetings so I had very little time to explore, but here are a few shots I managed to get. This first one was a winding street next to a restaurant where we stopped for lunch. It reminded me of streets in India and Nepal for some reason.

Dried fruit and nuts at a local market. I'm still trying to find time to visit the spice market here in Istanbul, I hear it is amazing.

This may be the best meal I've had here in Turkey yet - an amazing veggie plate. (Yes, Mom, your kid who hated vegetables has finally grown up.)

Looking up - I loved the grid lines and circles, with just a hint of the sky above.

I've been reading through the best of 2011 music lists and I've loved how much attention The Civil Wars is getting, one of my favorite discoveries this year, here's their Poison & Wine.

New Year's Decorations - Istanbul Style

2012-01-04T06:00:00.000-07:00

In my normal life I live in the suburbs where opportunities for night photography are limited, but thanks to Kat and her frequent posts and tips on night photography, I've been looking for more opportunities to experiment. The short days that go along with this time of year - and living a little closer to Istanbul's center means I've had more opportunities than usual to test my skills. It is clear I still have a lot to learn, but I've enjoyed the process.

When the holiday lights and decorations started to go up here I was a bit confused. I knew Christmas wasn't widely celebrated so I couldn't figure out why there were holiday decorations everywhere we went. A few questions later I knew it was for the New Year's celebration - which over the years has adopted more and more of the customs that I typically think of belonging to Christmas.

Are you picking a word for the year? Setting some resolutions? I felt like picking a word for 2011 (present) worked well for me - it stayed in the back of my mind and guided my decisions and actions in a positive way. I wasn't even sure I was going to pick a word this year, and then last week as I was doing my daily round of blog reading I found my word - deliberate.

I'm an easy going person, which works well for me since work requires me to move frequently and to adapt to new places, cultures and projects. But it also means that I can get into the habit of letting life just flow along. This year I want to be more deliberate in my choice and see if I can guide my life in the direction I want it to go instead of just coasting along with life.

How about you? Have you picked a word? Set some resolutions?

Here's a little Death Cab, "The New Year."

New Year's Eve 2012 - Istanbul

2012-01-02T06:00:00.000-07:00

I celebrated the new year with part of my work family in Istanbul at a great restaurant with an incredible view of the Bosphorus. Two Australians, an Indian, a Brazilian, an American and a Swiss all celebrating together in Turkey, a great way to ring in the new year. We joked that looking through our photos this morning might make us feel like we were in the movie "The Hangover." Luckily it wasn't quite that bad.....

At the beginning of the night, nice and normal.

I hope you had as much fun celebrating as we did.

The song that played at midnight for us, that had us all singing along: The Black Eye Peas: The Time.

Taksim Trolley

2011-12-30T06:00:00.000-07:00

There is an amazing photo in the lobby of my hotel in Istanbul of the Taksim Trolley - I've even attempted to talk them into giving it to me (only half jokingly.) The photo appears to have been taken on a quiet morning with just a hint of fog, every time I walk past it, I feel myself stopping and wondering about the photographer and the mood he/she was in that day. My first glimpse of the trolley happened on a Saturday evening outing to Taksim. By the time we crossed paths with the trolley it was already dark - which made capturing a photo of something moving that much more difficult.

Every time it passed by I started snapping - at one point I think I stood on the middle of the tracks in a modified version of chicken trying to get a clear shot. I'm nowhere near capturing the mood and beauty of the photo in my hotel - which just gives me an excuse to keep trying.

Do you have a subject or photo you keep going back to in an attempt to make the result match your vision?

I hope you all have a wonderful New Year's this weekend. I'm looking forward to greeting the new year a few hours earlier this year - and discovering how it is celebrated in Istanbul.

I have to share a new discovery to my every growing list of bearded singer/songwriters, Robin Pecknold, here's his: "I'm Losing Myself."

Street Food

2011-12-28T06:00:00.000-07:00

I was raised in a small town - so street food wasn't really something I was familiar with - but now after living a few more places, I find I'm fascinated by the variety that pops up around the world. The simitci carts seem to be the most common in Istanbul so far. They remind me a bit of bagels, a round shaped bread, but these come with toasted sesame seeds, I'm guessing they are a food that is eaten at any time of day, because the carts can be seen throughout the day. I haven't tried them yet, have any of you?

The second most common cart I see around town is the one for roasted chestnuts - which given that I spent the month of December in Istanbul meant that every time I saw one the old Christmas song, "chestnuts roasting on an open fire...." popped into my head.

All of these photos were taken on a Saturday evening in the Beyoglu area - one of the most vibrant and fun parts of town. We spent a couple of hours exploring the main street before going out to dinner. Some were taken just after the sunset, and some quite late. If nothing else it gave me some much needed practice with night photography - and made me wish for a tripod, or at least steadier hands.

I haven't tried the chestnuts yet, either. I think I'm hesitant to give street food a try after a bad experience in India. I'm sure I'll work up the nerve soon. Do you love street food? Or are you a bit hesitant to give it a go for some reason?

Speaking of streets, it's been a while since I shared anything by Joshua Radin, here's his "Streetlight."

A Glimpse of Istanbul

2011-12-26T10:46:00.000-07:00

I had an amazing holiday weekend with my family - my only complaint is over already. I hope you had an equally wonderful weekend. I'm rushing around today trying to fit in a day of work, packing and running a few errands as today is my last day home before I head back to Istanbul.

Work in Turkey has been manic, full of stress, long hours and no weekends. But I've tried to keep a camera with me at all times to capture a few shots here and then - mostly taken as I criss-cross the city for meetings with various groups or on a rare Saturday evening off. Here are a couple of glimpses of the city I've captured on my way to meetings. I hope to start sharing more of Istanbul in the coming weeks, it is an incredible city - with something new each day to capture my interest.

The pigeons at Taksim Square.

The New Mosque, which just happens to have been built from 1597 to 1663.

A VW bug, found on a Sunday walk through my neighborhood.

In music news, I'm seriously loving the new Florence and the Machine album, have you had a chance to check it out yet? Here's their "Breaking Down."

Skate Away On

2011-12-23T06:00:00.000-07:00

Thanks for sticking with me while I relived my Caribbean vacation. These posts and photos have helped me survive a crazy work month in Istanbul, full of 12 hour days and no weekends. Today, after more than 30 hours of travel I arrived home to spend Christmas with my family and, let me just say, it feels good to be home.

I hope you have an amazing holiday surrounded by those you love.

My favorite holiday song of all time? Joni Mitchell's "River." I spent the week singing and dreaming of skating away home.

Last of the Details

2011-12-21T06:00:00.000-07:00

Thanks for sticking around for my show and tell of the Caribbean, I hope it has inspired you to plan a trip of your own, the Caribbean is a place everyone should experience. If nothing else I've proved you can stretch a week long vacation into hundreds of photos and a slew of blog posts. But I just can't put my vacation away without sharing one last post with some of the random details I found along the way; and thanking my friend K, whose birthday on 11/11/11 inspired the trip, AND who did all the planning. K - I can't wait to do it again, maybe the Mediterranean next year?

Also, a very Happy Hanukkah today!

In honor of the colors of the Caribbean here is Amos Lee's: Colors.

St Thomas

2011-12-19T06:00:00.000-07:00

Our last stop on the cruise was St. Thomas in the US Virgin Islands and I couldn't think of a better way to end the vacation. I'll admit I've even done a bit of research since I got home to confirm that I could legally work there someday without doing a bunch of paperwork and getting a work permit - it was that GOOD.

We found a perfect snorkeling beach - so perfect that I could walk out in water to the tops of my legs and be swarmed by fish. The water was crystal clear perfection.

As a bonus for me there was patches of shade on the beach, which since I'd run out of sunscreen that morning was just what the doctor ordered.

All this sand and water has me thinking of Beth Nielsen Chapman's song Sand and Water.

St Maarten: Beach Time

2011-12-16T06:00:00.000-07:00

The competition for our beach chair/umbrella dollars was fierce in St Maarten, which means we got a great deal on deluxe umbrellas and chairs with posh cushions - the only down side - it was the most crowded of the beaches we visited.

St Maarten was also the place that found me sobbing on the beach thanks to a great (but sad) book I picked up in the ship's library, Kristin Hannah's "Firefly Lane." Nothing like being surrounded by people on vacation, soaking up the sun on the beach and sobbing your eyes out.

When I first noticed how the water was sparkling, I'll admit I thought it was remnants of my tears, turns out it was just the perfect sunny day. The kind of day that makes you want to sing along with The Wheepies: I Was Made for Sunny Days.

St Maarten: Around Town

2011-12-14T06:00:00.000-07:00

St Maarten was the most tourist friendly placed we'd visited, you could see the central area of the Dutch side from the ship and it was a short ferry ride away. We hadn't done a lot of shopping yet, but in St Maarten we changed that quickly. I came away with a great dress/swimsuit cover up but managed to resist buying a $200 ring (and only a little part of me wishes I'd caved in.)

Everything was colorful and fun, just what you expect to see in the Caribbean Islands. I'd love to go back to St Maarten some day, if for no other reason to make it to the French side so I can compare the two.

I've been on the search for something new to listen to and discovered The Changing Colors, I think I've found a new love, here's their: True Love Knows

Antigua: Sunset

2011-12-12T06:00:00.000-07:00

The sunset as we left Antigua was beyond gorgeous, the reflection on the water and the mountains to add interest - perfection.

Things are going well in Istanbul, but wow - this project may just kill me - it is interesting but oh, so demanding. Surviving til we get a few days off for Christmas is going to take a miracle. Coming back to these photos and the sense of relaxation I felt while in the islands helps me remember this won't last forever. When the photos don't work I pull out a little Florence and the Machine: No Light, No Light

Antigua: Golden Hour

2011-12-09T06:00:00.000-07:00

I managed to dress for dinner (I love that part of a cruise) with a bit of time to spare the evening we left Antigua, which allowed me to check out golden hour from the deck. In a word it was AMAZING.

At this point in the cruise I started to realize that it was getting better with each stop, I just kept falling more and more in love with the Caribbean. I also realized I'd listened to Sky Ferriera's Obsession about 10 times that day.

Antigua: Halcyon Beach

2011-12-07T06:00:00.000-07:00

I was on my own for most of the day in Antigua since my friends had signed up for an excursion to go snorkeling (and I'm not much of a swimmer.) While I was the cathedral, I stopped into their visitors center to learn more about the renovations and came away with a recommendation for a perfect beach to spend the afternoon on, proof that talking to the locals and not the tour guides as you get off the ship is the way to go.

Halcyon Beach was pretty much paradise - the water was amazing. I couldn't get over the natural ombre as the water got darker and darker the further out you got.

The only downside was an overly attentive beach butler - I'm pretty sure he proposed marriage at one point, which for some reason had me singing Bruno Mars' Marry You for the rest of the day.

Antigua: St John's Cathedral

2011-12-05T06:00:00.000-07:00

When we arrived in Antigua I wanted to see St John's cathedral before I hit the beach. There has been a church in this spot for hundreds of years. The first was destroyed in 1683 by an earthquake, the second was destroyed in 1843 by another earthquake. The current version is in the middle of a major renovation project that has left it without a roof.

I love that the church just keeps fighting back.

I found this sheet of music tucked just inside one of the gates on the corner of the stairs. I couldn't help wondering how long it had been there.

As I walked around the church wishing I could see the inside Elton John's Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me, kept popping up in my head.

St Lucia

2011-12-02T06:00:00.000-07:00

I've said before that I wasn't much of a beach person. I just didn't "get" the appeal of spending hours sitting on the beach, but when I got to St Lucia my perspective changed. We spent the entire day on the beach and I discovered the bliss that comes from doing nothing but sitting under an umbrella with a good book, some great music and amazing friends.

I wasn't bored for a single moment and the truth was I hated to pack up and leave at the end of the afternoon. Good thing I had several more days of beach time ahead of me.

The day ended with a spectacular sunset, the perfect end to a blissful day. This is the type of sunset that doesn't fit in with Iron & Wine's Sunset Soon Forgotten.

Barbados: St James Church

2011-11-30T06:00:00.000-07:00

Istanbul continues to surprise me. I was in the central part of the city today trying to find the address for a meeting I was going to, my translator and I were staring up at the buildings trying to decipher the signs when suddenly someone came up to me and said hello. The surprise was that I knew him. I've spent less than 5 days total in Istanbul (which is a city of 14 million people) so saying I know no one is accurate. But on my first visit I scouted apartments for my team to live in and met several landlords. The guy on the street was one of those landlords (and who owned the apartment I really wanted to live in but was to far away.) His memory of me, and stopping to say hello on a busy street totally charmed me and convinced me I'm going to love getting to know people here.

Now, back to my vacation.....

After spending the morning in Bridgetown, we found a driver who gave us a tour of the Island - such a beautiful place. We stopped at the St. James church in Holetown and I fell a bit in love with this little treasure.

When I was tracking down a song to go with this post I kept thinking church which led to Eric Church, but since I'm not in a twangy mood today I had to keep thinking. Then I remembered a great song from the Donnie Darko soundtrack (which I love, but I've never seen the movie, is that weird?). Here's The Church with Under the Milky Way.

Barbados: Around Town

2011-11-28T06:00:00.000-07:00

I made it back to Istanbul after a couple of days of travel, which wasn't as bad as usual, because I somehow got upgraded to first class on the longest leg (Chicago to London) what a treat. Because work is going to be so crazy for the next several weeks my posts are going to be heavy on photos and short on words. I have a ton of photos from the Caribbean and even Switzerland I haven't shared yet so I hope you don't mind taking a visual vacation with me. First up Barbados.

We spent a good share of the morning walking around the downtown area of Bridgetown, the capital of Barbados. While it wasn't my favorite stop on the cruise, it was a very colorful place.

I kicked off my cruise with Barbados' most famous musician, but really can you ever get enough Rhianna? Only Girl in the World

Beach Thinking

2011-11-25T06:00:00.000-07:00

I've spent a lot of time over the last couple of weeks thinking about a quote from Anna Quindlen I saw on Smart, Pretty, Awkward:

"I read and walked for miles at night along the beach, writing bad blank verse and searching endlessly for someone wonderful who would step out of the darkness and change my life. It never crossed my mind that that person could be me."

There are times in my life when I forget that I am the only one with the power to make those changes in my life I've been seeking. Running across this quote was a great reminder that I need to step up and take control.

I'm headed back to Istanbul tomorrow and plan to stay for about a month. Work is going to be absolutely insane, I'm just praying I'll be able to keep up.

I hope those of you in the US are enjoying the second great holiday this week: Black Friday. I'm planning to avoid it, but you never know what my mom and sister will talk me into.

A perfect Kings of Leon song, Beach Side, came on while I was sitting on this amazing beach in Antigua - I love it when shuffle works that perfectly.

Puerto Rico

2011-11-23T06:00:00.000-07:00

We started (and ended) our cruise in Puerto Rico. I fell in love with the old fort and only wish I'd booked a later flight on our last day so I could fit in old town.

This last shot was what I saw as I borded the ship, proof that in the right light everything can be beautiful, even temporary structures.

When I think of music and Puerto Rico I immediately think of Menudo - I remember watching their TV show on Saturday mornings as a kid. I had such a crush on little Ricky who only got better with age. Ricky Martin: Maria

For those of you in the US - Happy Thanksgiving tomorrow. I hope you have a great time with your families/friends and that your travel is as painless as possible.

Toes in the Water

2011-11-21T06:00:00.000-07:00

I'm just back from one of my most relaxing vacations ever. I've never been a beach person so I didn't know what to expect of this trip when my friend suggested a Caribbean cruise - but since it was something I've never tried, in places I've never been, I decided to give it a go. (How I managed to live in Rio just blocks from the beach for 2 years and not discover the joys of sitting on a lounger under an umbrella and watching the waves roll in I'll never know.)

Last week:

I completely unplugged. No internet, TV or phone and it was just what the doctor ordered.
I went through a bottle of SPF 70 in 5 days and parked myself under an umbrella at the beach each day. And yet, I managed to miss a strip on one leg and came home with a burn stripe. I even came home with tan lines - something which between my fair skin and the 70 SPF, I thought was impossible.
I ate seafood every day - it was heaven.
We won't even talk about the number of desserts that were consumed....

I'm still going through my photos, but so far I'm very pleased with the quality I got from my little point and shoot (I left my dslr at home since I decided to do the cruise with only carry on luggage.) I'm hoping editing the photos over the next several days will keep the spirit of relaxation with me as I try and catch up with real life this week.

I found myself singing this song every day as I brushed the sand off my toes. Zac Brown Band: Toes

Random Monument

2011-11-18T13:22:00.000-07:00

As I walked from the Blue Mosque to the Hagia Sophia I passed this monument.

I didn't take the time to figure out what it was a monument to, or why it was there.

I just stopped because I liked the way the sun was hitting it and making the gold mosaics sparkle.

And the way the birds were lined up so neatly across the top, barely moving, they almost looked like they were a part of the monument itself and not just sitting there resting.

I hope you have an amazing weekend planned - how many of you are gearing up to travel next week (American Thanksgiving?) What are your tactics to make the trip less painful?

Speaking of birds, I haven't posted anything by Eva Cassidy in a very long time, here's her amazing "Songbird."

Inside the Sofia

2011-11-16T06:00:00.000-07:00

I only got 4 photos inside the Hagia Sofia before the battery on my camera died. I somehow managed to leave the charger in the US - lesson to self, ALWAYS check the bag for the camera charger before going on a trip.

I can't wait to go back and get another go at taking photos here - there are so many shots I wanted to try.

I'm kind of obsessed with the way the hanging lights look like halo's hovering over the heads of the people inside, so cool.

When was the last time you got somewhere with a dead camera battery? Or is it just me that those kind of things happen to?

For my dead battery, here is Bobby Long's "Dead and Gone."

Hagia Sofia

2011-11-14T06:00:00.000-07:00

I'm still in the Caribbean, but thought I'd share more of the photos I took on my day playing tourist in Istanbul.

The Hagia Sofia was dedicated in 360 AD (the current structure was built in the 500s AD) and has been a basilica, a mosque and is now a museum. It is famous for its massive dome and, at least according to wikipedia, it changed the history of architecture. I'm not a history buff, or an even an architecture guru, but I do know it was an amazing place. Just knowing that it's been there for nearly 2000 years was enough to blow me away.

Today's song is one I can't get enough of, Peter Bradley Adams: "The Longer I Run."

Inside the Blue Mosque

2011-11-11T06:00:00.000-07:00

I'm actually back on an airplane today I'm starting to have airport deja vu - on Sunday I flew from Istanbul to Geneva, on Wednesday I flew from Geneva to Salt Lake (through Paris and New York) and today I'm flying from Salt Lake to San Juan (through Dallas), where I'm getting on a cruise ship headed to the Caribbean.

It does make my life sound pretty cool - but before you think I'm too lucky, just think of all the hours I've spent sitting in a cramped airplane and how many times security lines I've had to go through, not to mention how messed up I am when it comes to time zones. Still, I wouldn't miss this vacation for anything, we've been planning it since January, and I've never seen the Caribbean so it should be a fun adventure.

Now, back to Istanbul and more of the Blue Mosque - this time from the inside:

I'm passing through Barbados on this trip, so here's a little of Barbado's most famous export, Rihanna: Umbrella.

The Blue Mosque

2011-11-09T06:00:00.000-07:00

My work life continues to be crazy. I waited a week and a half in Switzerland to get the go ahead to go to Istanbul and after a couple of days there I was already falling in love with the place. Then, on Friday I got a call asking me to head back to Switzerland as soon as I could, which turned out to be Sunday morning. This gave me part of the day Saturday to play tourist.

I decided I would try and fit in a visit to the Sultan Ahmed Mosque (Blue Mosque), Hagia Sofia and the Grand Bazaar. I only brought my point and shoot camera on this trip and I discovered as I entered the Hagia Sofia the battery was dead, so it is a good thing this is just the first visit of many.

I'm headed back to the US today, so I'll leave you with the rest of my photos from the outside of this amazing mosque built in the 1600s.

I've listened to a lot of Laura Veirs lately her songs have been a good fit for my mood, her "Life is Good Blues", is a particular favorite. The song starts with the line: "Life is good when you dance all night." That line reminds me it's the little things that can really make life good.

So, tell me what is making your life good right now?

Prayers

2011-11-07T06:00:00.000-07:00

On Saturday I went to the Sultan Ahmed Mosque (Blue Mosque) it was amazing. I have a ton of photos to get through, but the first thing I did when I got back to the hotel was pull this set off the camera.

As I was leaving the mosque the sun was shining in through a set of windows just as a group were beginning their prayers.

Only moments earlier the mosque had been filled with tourists snapping photos, but as they all left there was a sense of quiet that filled the enormous room as a few men began their prayers. As amazing as the architecture and design of the building were, they had nothing on that quiet moment of peace and I'm so grateful that was the moment I happened to pause and notice the people and not just the architecture.

Alison Krauss - A Living Prayer

Free Your Mind

2011-11-04T11:26:00.000-06:00

I woke up Tuesday morning in Switzerland to an email telling me to find a flight that day to Istanbul. This trip was finally on!!!

I wish I could tell you all about Istanbul and share photos - but the truth is I've been so crazy busy that the only photos I've taken are of the inside of hotels and apartments.

A friend I met shortly after I moved to Brazil (who, like me, moves a lot) gave me some advice I still try and live by: for the first 3 months after you move anywhere, anytime someone invites you to do something you have to say YES. Doesn't matter how tired you are or what else you have planned, you say yes. It forces you to get out and meet people, see things and when people see you out it encourages them to get to know you and to include you in invitations. Soon you are part of a network of friends.

With his advice in mind, when the contact who was helping me look at apartments invited me to join her at an event mid-afternoon I said yes.

Source: google.com.tr via Sonik on Pinterest

Which is how I found myself standing in the middle of an amazing designer's (Ozlem Suer) studio, with a group of Istanbul's "ladies who lunch" watching an intimate fashion show. The clothes were to DIE for, the models were so close I could reach out and touch them and the ladies who attended were so chic and elegant. They were drinking champagne and Chambord eating elegant finger foods and amazing desserts.

I felt like I'd stepped into the most amazing world. I hope the rest of my experiences here are equally jaw dropping and unexpected.

This song is an old one, but when I saw the models walk through the house in their amazing dresses on those insane shoes their attitude brought this video to mind - and it is a good reminder to me to stay open to the possibilities here. En Vogue: Free Your Mind

Pinterest Challenge 2

2011-11-02T06:00:00.000-06:00

It's time for another Pinterest Challenge - and I'll admit, I'm cheating a bit this round. I'm out of town for a while, so I'm going to share a couple of projects I finished before I left - the first challenge had me so pumped up on projects I just couldn't stop. First up, my ombre dresser:

The Inspiration

Source: knockknockingblog.blogspot.com via Jamie on Pinterest

My Version

This was such a simple way to give a fun splash of color to some very boring nightstands.

Next up - and even easier, a towel rack necklace holder.

The Inspiration

Source: engineeredstyle.com via Jamie on Pinterest

My Version

The necklace holder came together when I ran across the two towel bars for $2 in the As-Is area of Ikea - don't you love it when you find exactly what you need for next to nothing?

I love that my necklaces are easy to see - it means they get worn more often.

I listened to Priscillia Ahn's new album while I painted - the whole thing is great, but this track is a favorite: I Don't Have Time to Be In Love

Halloween Swiss Style

2011-10-31T06:00:00.000-06:00

I'm still in Lausanne and thought I'd share the giant jack-o-lantern I came across on my weekend wanderings. Want proof it is enormous - check out the photo below - it is the size of a CAR. It was across the way from a club - so I'm guessing they held some sort of costume party over the weekend. It's been years since I dressed up, but I'm hoping for a little FaceTime chat with my niece and nephew so I can see their costumes. One thing I'm not missing is all the left over candy, which I promise myself I won't eat...and then I do.

How are you celebrating Halloween this year?

Duffy - I'm Scared

I'm in....

2011-10-26T06:00:00.000-06:00

I'm in....Switzerland, but I'm not staying... I'm just stopping in on my way to... (cue excited music.)

Source: bootsnall.com via Martina on Pinterest

Istanbul

I'm in Switzerland for a while in my company's offices while we work out the details for Istanbul, I don't know yet when I'm going, where I'm staying or how long I'll be there, but I anticipate spending most of the rest of this year and a good part of next year as well. I'm so excited to explore some place new.

When I started this blog nearly 4 years ago, my goal was to keep a record of my life in Delhi (I regret not having any real record of my two years in Rio.) I'm excited to get back to the core of that goal and use this blog to record my adventures and discoveries in a new place and culture. While, I've LOVED having a year at home and I adored last year and its opportunity to live and work in Lexington KY, I'm thrilled to once again be an expat and experience life in Istanbul.

Have you been to Istanbul/Turkey? I'd love to hear what places I should see and things I should do. I should have used the past few weeks to do research - but I haven't, I think I was afraid of jinxing things if I got to serious in my planning.

There is really only one song that can go on this post: Istanbul (not Constantinople) - this version is by They Might Be Giants.

Things Change

2011-10-24T06:00:00.000-06:00

For the last 6 weeks I've been on pins and needles ready to pack up and leave at a minutes notice. A big work project was calling - but I didn't know where or when I'd leave. I've had my suitcase half packed and my fridge has never been so empty.

Today I'm finally on an airplane - and instead of telling you where I'm going, I think I'll let you guess and spill the beans after I arrive. I will apologize in advance as I think my blog commenting will be taking a back seat to work for a while, but I'll do my very best at least keeping up with the reading.

While I'm navigating the joys of air travel, if you want to know a little bit more about me, hop over to Christianna's lovely blog: The Girl with the Blue Bow. I'm the interviewee today in her Any Friend of Mine series.

With changes on my mind today - a little Susie Suh seems perfect: Seasons Change

Deer Season

2011-10-21T06:00:00.000-06:00

I grew up in a rural area where deer hunting season was a very big deal - we even got a day off school for the opening of the hunt.

This year during the hunt I did manage to get my deer - although my version of "get" involves getting a few photos of one.

Given that the women in my family used the dear hunt holiday as a retail holiday where the only thing that got a work out was our credit card, I've decided this kind of hunting (with a camera) might just work for me. After all, this way I get pretty pictures and no big credit card bill when I'm finished.

Did anyone else get a school holiday for something as odd as the Deer Hunt? Or is it just rural Utah? Note, they called it Fall Break, so it wasn't quite as blatant as I make it sound.

I hope this little doe never finds herself in the headlights.
Owl City: Deer in the Headlights

Fall Leaves Pt 2

2011-10-19T06:00:00.000-06:00

Fall has officially arrived in my part of the world with it all the lovely fall leaves and some pretty amazing skies.

How about you? Are the leaves changing in your area yet? Have you been out to see them?

Have you heard the new Ryan Adams album yet? It is very much worth checking out. Lucky Now has me singing along.

The Cabin

2011-10-17T06:00:00.000-06:00

I mentioned Friday I had spent some time at my parents cabin - and since my sister and her family missed out on the trip thanks to the flu, I thought I'd share what she missed. First up, the road to the cabin.

Next, the steps leading up to the balcony - and if you look closely a glimpse of the old outhouse.

There have been some renovations and it looks better than ever, best of all - the new roof that made the balcony the best part of the cabin.

Grandma and Grandpa put up a tire swing for the little ones - they will love it.

The log chair at the fire pit, aka the king's throne.

My favorite grove of trees - the sun always seems to shine through these trees in the most beautiful way. We spent tons of time here when we were growing up, but adult life means it is much harder to get there - but every time I do I fall in love with it all over again.

When I think music and cabin I think of Bon Iver holed up in a cabin creating his amazing For Emma, Forever Ago album, including this song: Flume

Fall Leaves

2011-10-14T06:00:00.000-06:00

My parents have a mountain cabin not far from my hometown. I don't get to visit often, but every time I do, I remember why we all fell in love with the location - especially in Autumn.

Last week I managed to spend a couple of hours there on a Sunday afternoon. My dad took me for a drive a patiently stopped the car every time I wanted to take a photo - many, many times.

It was a strange day - sunny but with dark ominous clouds - which made for some fun contrasts in some of the photos.

Do you have a favorite place to see the Autumn leaves? Or do you live in one of those areas where you just get to enjoy green year round?

In other news:

We are building a playlist of cover songs at Inspiration Studio, why don't you pop over and share your favorite with us.
My master bedroom is finally finished, and was featured on one of my favorite design blogs, 6th Street Design School. Kirsten helped me with the planning for the bedroom and gave me the courage to take it in a new (but scary to me) direction.

Steve Azar's Startin' Today woke me up this morning - and the melody has been in my head ever since, and with lyrics like these, it's been a positive message all day long:

Startin' today I'm gonna turn this boat around

Catch that rainbow I've been chasin' down

It's all right, I'll be OK

Startin' today

New Music

2011-10-12T06:00:00.000-06:00

Last week I was in the mood for some new music, and after having seen Dustin Christensen's name several places I decided it was time to give him a listen. I am so glad I did - I've listened to his new album, Highway Lines, (and nothing else) for an entire week and it just gets better with every listen. His songs are amazing and his voice is stunning.

Have you discovered any new artists lately? You know me - I'm always looking for someone new to fall in love with.

You can stream Dustin's newest album here: Dustin Christensen - Highway Lines

Trying Something New

2011-10-10T06:00:00.000-06:00

A few nights ago I took my camera out just as the sun was setting - I wanted to experiment with night photos. I learned two things. First I need a lot more practice. Second, it may be time to invest in a tripod. Do you have any recommendation on the tripod front?

This first shot is the view of the Salt Lake Valley from my neighborhood. That line of gray in the middle of the photo is the Great Salt Lake.

For some reason the moon was even harder to capture than the city view - every shot was fuzzy. More proof it is time to invest in a tripod.

Hope you had a great weekend. I had plans to be super productive. Instead I found myself in the middle of a Twilight marathon.What is it about those movies and the books that suck me back in from time to time?

Ten points to the person who can tell me which movie and scene this song comes from:
Iron & Wine: Flightless Bird (American Mouth)

A White Surprise

2011-10-07T06:00:00.000-06:00

I woke up yesterday to a very white surprise: snow. And not just a little bit of snow.....

Not only does it seem extremely early to be seeing snow (it was in the 80s last week) but take a look at the leaves on my aspen trees. For starters - there are still leaves on the trees, and the are still GREEN. They haven't even started to change colors!

I suspect (okay, I pray) this is just a freak early storm and that it will quickly melt and be back at least in the 70s again soon. I'm just getting into the swing of Fall, I'm in no way ready for Winter.

I'm using the storm as an excuse to dig out Snow Patrol - with their songs coming through the speakers outside seems a little less dreary.

Snow Patrol - You Are My Joy

Gallery Wall - Finished

2011-10-05T06:00:00.000-06:00

Remember back in August where I forced you to live through post after post of my travel photos as part of August Break? I did that for a reason - I wanted to create a gallery wall at my house and fill it with photos from some of my favorite places. August Break and the gallery wall gave me a good excuse to dig through old files to find some of my favorite photos (and if you haven't done this in a while you should, it was so my fun revisiting those trips and memories.)

I finally got around to printing, framing and hanging the photos - and I have to say, I'm very happy with the way it turned out. I even had enough photos to start a wall on the opposite side of the staircase and I hope to keep adding to my collection.

There are two prints on the wall that aren't mine - I purchased them on etsy (here and here), these prints define my travel philosophy making them a perfect fit:

"My favorite thing is to go where I've never been."

"I was not born for one corner; the whole world is my native land."

My thoughts on gallery walls - they aren't cheap and they aren't easy. Most of my frames came from Ikea or Michaels - but even with good prices frames add up quickly. I also won't pretend the actual hanging was easy - it took planning and a bit of math, but I'm convinced it was worth it.

Do you have a gallery wall at your house? Do you print and hang the photos you take? If not, what do you do with your photos to keep them from just becoming gigs of data on your hard drive?

I've been listening to Laura Marling a lot lately and I can't get enough of her Rambling Man - it seems an appropriate accompany to a post about travel photos.

Family Blessings

2011-10-03T10:05:00.000-06:00

I had a bit of a health scare last week - it all started with the stomach flu, which led to a serious case of dehydration, which caused me to pass out and have a episode of muscle spasms, which led to some cuts and bruises and a very sore head. I'm completely fine now, but last week reminded me how incredibly blessed I am and what an amazing family I have.

After my little episode I was sitting there, dazed and confused, honestly not understanding what had happened. But I kept hearing this still, small voice telling me I needed to call my sister (who lives nearby) and tell her what happened. I finally picked up the phone, she, of course, urged me to go to the doctor. I, of course, said no (I have a thing about doctors and hate to go.) I just asked her to call me back in an hour or so and check on me.

My sister got off the phone and this time she was the one who heard that small voice. This one told her that I was wrong and she needed to get me help. She put her work on hold, got my brother-in-law to come home and watch their kids and called me back and told me whether I wanted to or not we were going to the doctor. She even managed to track down my parents (which I thought was impossible since they were camping and out of cell phone range.)

My sister got me to the doctor and set there with me for several hours while they gave me IV fluids and my mom showed up soon after so I didn't have to spend the night alone.

I'm so grateful for the promptings we felt that day, and that we acted on them. I know that things could have been much worse if I hadn't gotten the help I needed when I did. I'm also feeling incredibly blessed to have the kind of family that drops everything when someone is in need.

I'm here for you

In sinking sand

Just grab my hand

And with all I have

I'll hold on

Matt Wertz: Family

Inspired by Colors

2011-09-30T06:00:00.000-06:00

I'm hosting a linky party at Inspiration Studio - we are sharing photos, painting, writing, etc that were inspired by a song. There is still plenty of time to join in, so take a minute this weekend, turn on some music, create and share it with us!

My photo for the linky party (above) was inspired by the Grace Potter and the Nocturnal's song Colors.

Ombre

2011-09-28T06:00:00.000-06:00

One of the very first things I pinned on Pinterest was this awesome ombre dresser:

Source: knockknockingblog.blogspot.com via Jamie on Pinterest

It served as the inspiration for my other St George project last week. I took two Ikea Rast Dressers and with a bit of paint turned them from this:

To this:

I've been pushing myself lately to start doing something with the things I pin - turning the inspiration into actual projects. It feels good knowing that all the time I'm investing pinning is actually paying off.

Have you turned your pins into projects yet? Or are you still holding out on Pinterest?

I've been digging the new Dawes album, their song "Time Spent in Los Angles" has been on heavy rotation.

Unplugged

2011-09-26T09:19:00.001-06:00

I spent last week in St George on vacation - and it was one of those vacations where I came home rested and feeling like I accomplished something. I don't have a TV or the internet at my house there, so except for a daily visit to the library to check email, I spent the week unplugged and it was just what I needed.

For the first time I attempted a bit of furniture painting - and while it didn't go exactly as planned I think it was a decent first attempt and I learned a few things I'll use on my next projects.

I found this pair of chairs at the DI (Utah's version of Goodwill) for $6 each. They'd seen better days, but I loved the shape. It took a couple of tries to find the color I was after, I have blue feet thanks to spay paint fumes, I discovered that wearing a mask while sanding is a must and I have decided I will never again forget to borrow a power sander.

I'm still trying to decide on a fabric to recover the seats with, but I'm loving the bold blue color.

I also rehabbed some old bookcases that have been knocking around my house for years. I think these things have survived at least 5 moves, but then needed a fresh new look. The white made them feel fresher (they were a blonde wood shade before), but I thought they needed a splash of color too so I painted some foam core board a sunny color and put them in the back of the shelves making it easy to switch to a new color when the mood strikes.

In honor of my unplugged week - here is an unplugged version of a song I love: Sarah Buxton & Jedd Hughes' Big Blue Sky.

Friday? Already?

2011-09-23T04:00:00.000-06:00

I've been on vacation this week - a half relax / half work like crazy vacation.

I'm running out of days to finish all my projects so I'm going to wish you a happy weekend and pull my paint brush back out.

Looking for some music to keep you moving while you work on your projects this weekend? Give American Bang's "We Are Wild and Young" a listen - it has kept me going all week long.

As the Storm Rolls In

2011-09-21T04:00:00.000-06:00

I've said several times in the past couple of weeks that I'm in no way ready to let go of summer. I'm just not ready for the shorter days and the snow. But after watching this storm roll in over the mountains, I started to remember all the things I love about Autumn: the colors, the smells, and the beautiful art that fills the skies as the clouds move in.

I'm trying to remember that Autumn is one of my favorite seasons and not to resent the fact that this week I went from wearing Haviana's to Uggs (my office has suddenly gotten cold in the mornings.)

Are you excited for the changing seasons? Or are you like me, still clinging to summer?

I haven't listened to Ane Brun for a while, but I was skimming through my music collection and saw her "Changing of the Seasons" album, pulled it out and rediscovered her song: "The Fall." Perfect for the mood I'm in today.

Carter's Peak

2011-09-19T04:00:00.000-06:00

For the first 18 years of my life I saw this peak nearly every day of my life. It was a grounding point, the mountain I looked at in the morning on the way home from school and each evening at the end of the day.

It seems impossible, but I've now spent more years away from it than I did with it. I've seen some of the most amazing places on earth - but Carter's Peak still says home to me.

Do you have something that says home to you? A lake? A building? A river?

I've spent the week with the new Ryan Tanner EP playing, it is amazing, I love his "Don't Forget to Take it With You When You Go," take a listen:

<p>&amp;amp;lt;a href="http://ryantanner.bandcamp.com/album/seven-years-acoustic-ep"&amp;amp;gt;Seven Years - Acoustic EP by Ryan Tanner&amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;gt;</p>

Looking Forward

2011-09-16T07:11:00.000-06:00

It seems lately that by the time Friday rolls around I am beyond ready for the weekend, today is no different. I'm hoping to spend some time chilling out and enjoying the beauty all around.

I'm also getting read to celebrate some birthdays next week - my mom's and my own (Happy Birthday MOM!) I'm not particularly happy about getting a year older, but I've made it a tradition over the last few years to take each birthday has a chance to spend some time reflecting on where I'm at and where I want to go in the next year.

This year I think I've learned that some of the very best things that have ever happened to me are the things I didn't plan, but because I was willing to take a leap into the unknown, changed my life for the better. I'm hoping this year will bring new adventures and challenges.

Today, Alison Krauss's Gravity is feeling a bit like it was written for me.

Did you know we relaunched Inspiration Studio this week? We are working on a playlist full of the musical artists who inspire us to create. I'd love it if you'd hop on over here and share your favorites.

Artistic Friends

2011-09-14T07:00:00.000-06:00

BEFORE

Last fall I shared the photos of my office remodel and mentioned that I have decorated in part with prints and photos taken by blogging friends. Then this spring I shared photos of my office after it because a storage unit for my furniture when my sister and her family moved in.

NOW

It's taken me a few months, but I've gradually reclaimed my office and have expanded the gallery wall. It is so fun to walk in here each morning and see the amazing art created by my friends. I hope to continue to grow my collection of art - it is a huge wall and I hope that someday it is covered by the work of my inspiring and talented friends.

Source list:
Left side, top row:
Small black and white prints (2) - Kat Sloma
Light through the trees - Jennifer Lorton (etsy shop)

Left side, middle:
Focus print - Kristine Redekopp - Blue Elephant Photography
Yellow blossoms - Maegan - Madeline Bea (etsy shop)

Right side, top row:
Roses - Maegan - Madeline Bea
Small black and white prints (2) - Kat Sloma

Right side, middle:
Blue branches - Maegan - Madeline Bea
Morning Dew - April Newman Photography

A couple of quick notes about my collection - some pieces I've purchased, some were gifted and others were won in giveaways, but no matter how each was acquired, I love them equally. I also have a few pieces that have landed in other places in my house that I hope to get around to sharing one day soon.

I discovered The Low Anthem a few weeks ago and can't get enough, if you get a chance give them a listen, here's one of my favorites: Don't Tremble.

Morning Dew

2011-09-12T07:00:00.000-06:00

A few weeks ago I read a post from Courtney where she shared some of the beautiful photos she captured in her yard, she wondered what her neighbors must have thought of her rolling around in the grass to get the shots she was after.

Just as I finished reading I stepped outside to pick up my mail. As I walked to the mailbox, I glanced down and noticed a spiderweb in the grass that was still full of the morning dew. With Courtney's adventures fresh in my mind, I decided to grab my camera and see if I could entertain my neighbors and get a photo that captured the beauty of that morning.

When was the last time you rolled around in your front yard to capture a photo?

One of my very favorite songs is "Light of a Clear Blue Morning." It was written and originally recorded by Dolly Parton, but in my mind this Allison Moorer cover is pure perfection and the song I turn to when I need to remember that each new morning brings a fresh start and a chance to keep improving.

Little Mermaid

2011-09-09T07:00:00.000-06:00

Last weekend my family headed to St George - I finally got to share my new vacation house with my sister. We met up with extended family to see The Little Mermaid at Tuacahn Amphitheater. It was so fun to catch up with everyone before the show and again the next night at my house for a BBQ (I'm of the opinion that you aren't truly moved into a place until you have at least one party.)

For those of you from outside of Utah - Tuacahn is an amazing theatre nestled in the red rocks of Southern Utah (near Zion's National Park.) Little Mermaid was very well done - and the little girls in our group loved it. Miss M got so excited when Ariel got her voice back - her face lit up and she made sure we all understood what had just happened. She was also incredibly proud of the fact that she didn't get scared and have to close her eyes.

We also discovered that those dance classes must be paying off. While we were waiting for the show to start, she found a small stage and decided she HAD to get up there and dance for us - this shy little girl may just be coming out of her shell.

My favorite song from The Little Mermaid is - Under the Sea, I can't hear it without wanting to dance.

Have you seen the Little Mermaid stage production? Do you have a favorite song from the movie/show? The Lion King is still my favorite Disney movie done Broadway style, but Little Mermaid just moved up the list.

NOTE: I'm still having google problems and can't comment on some blogs, it seems to depend on how the comments section is structured. I'm still working on finding a fix, but know if I haven't left a comment, it isn't because I'm not reading.

Dancing Feet

2011-09-07T07:00:00.000-06:00

Note: I'm having problems with my google account - first all the blogs I subscribe to disappeared, once I got that fixed I discovered I can't comment. I'm doing my best to keep up with all of you - even if you aren't getting comments from me.

It has been a while since I participated in any sort of photo challenge, so when I saw Kat's Process of Elimination, challenge last week I knew it was time to give it another try.

A few weeks ago I went to my niece's dance class - it was the final class for the summer so families were invited to see what the girls had learned. In one portion of the class the girls showed off their ballet positions.

For my process of elimination photos I decided to focus in on her feet and the adjustments she made as she tried to find first position - which are similar to the adjustments I make as I experiment with photography and photo editing (I also decided to experiment with some of Kim Klassen's textures on these photos.) Sometimes it works and sometimes it isn't quite right. But I think bot Miss M and would both agree that most of the fun comes from the attempt.

I'm going to go with the obvious song choice here:
Elton John - Tiny Dancer

How the time flies

2011-09-06T08:02:00.001-06:00

Does anyone else feel like August lasted one week instead of four? For me it just flew by and September is off to a similarly speedy start!

Thanks for your kind words on my August Break Travel Series. Just as I decided to participate in the break this year I decided I needed a gallery wall in my house and thought a wall full of some of my favorite travel photos would be fun. So I decided to combine the two into one project. The project is going well, I have all the photos printed and framed, now I just need to get them hung.

My original August Break plan was to use the extra time to finish up a few projects at home and to spend more time with family and friends. Thanks to a huge couple of work projects, things didn't go quite as planned (when do they ever), but it was still a relaxing way to blog for a month. I, however, have really missed regular blogging and can't wait to jump back in.

A couple of weeks ago I got to see Adele in concert. She was amazing, she moved me to tears a couple of times. Let's kick off September in style:

Adele - Rolling in the Deep

August Break: Paris

2011-09-02T16:00:00.003-06:00

I know August is over, but I got a late start on August Break and I'm out of town for the holiday weekend, so I'm stretching my travel series for one more post. Thanks for sticking with me as I re-live all the trips I'm NOT taking this year. I'm ready to jump back into blogging next week.

August Break: Kentucky

2011-08-31T17:00:00.001-06:00

August Break: North Carolina

2011-08-29T17:00:00.000-06:00

August Break: Muscat

2011-08-26T17:00:00.002-06:00

August Break: Chang Mai

2011-08-24T17:00:00.000-06:00

August Break: Kathmandu

2011-08-22T17:00:00.000-06:00

August Break: London

2011-08-19T16:00:00.000-06:00

August Break: Copenhagen

2011-08-17T17:00:00.001-06:00

August Break: St Petersburg

2011-08-15T17:00:00.001-06:00

August Break: Rajasthan

2011-08-12T17:00:00.001-06:00

August Break: Agra

2011-08-10T17:00:00.000-06:00

August Break: Rio de Janiero

2011-08-08T17:00:00.000-06:00

Then and Now

2011-08-05T17:00:00.004-06:00

This was my guest bedroom when I moved in. Paint and wallpaper courtesy of the previous owner, not at all what I was after.

My first makeover - I really wanted to experiment with a dark paint color (I'd never dared go dark before.) I loved this at the time - and even found a comforter on clearance at Kohls that matched, giving me a tone on tone look for the entire room.

Lately, it felt old and dated and I knew that putting dark carpet under the dark paint just wasn't going to work for me. What I really wanted was board and batten, but I'm not super handy, don't have the proper tools, or the budget right now for what I want. So I decided to "fake" it the best I could with a little paint. Two coats of primer and a coat of paint later the room is so much lighter and brighter. Best of all, this makeover cost nothing (except for the new carpet that was going in anyway.) I already had the paint and the linens. You can't beat that price.

Please ignore the fact that I haven't gotten around to moving the large map (of Paris) up above the headboard, I plan to get it done eventually, I swear.

I'm a week late, but I've decided to join Susannah Conway's August Break. For the rest of the month (and maybe into the first week of September) I'm just going to post a photo, no words, no songs. I think it is a brilliant way to spend the last month of the season focussed on life and less on blogging.

I'd better make this last song a good one. Matt Bauer is a new discover of mine this week. He's a bearded guy (you know me and scruffy musicians, swoon) with a beautiful voice, who sings songs that make me stop everything just to list. Take a listen to his Don't Let Me Out:

Master Bedroom - After

2011-08-03T17:00:00.001-06:00

Friday I shared some before pictures from my master bed and bathroom and I've finally gotten around to taking some after shots. I, still haven't hung a single piece of art on the wall and the curtains haven't been hung, so I guess these aren't true after shots, but they are the best I have.

The carpet turned out great, it scared me at first because it was so much darker than what I had before, but after a day or two I'm loving it. I still have to deal with the two holes in my living room wall that the furniture movers left me with. I'm convinced there is no house project that can be done without something going wrong.

The walls are a blue/green/grey mix from Martha Stewart called Winter's Day. I've fallen so in love with this color I think I'm going to use it to freshen my living room. It comes off as a neutral, and changes in different light. The duvet is a rust/orange color and came from West Elm (no longer in stock.)

I'm still hoping I'll get brave and paint the cupboards a soft white sometime in the future, but for now it just feels amazing not to have a place covered in dated wallpaper and grungy carpet.

The Flaming Lips recently played a show in Salt Lake, and while I don't love all of their stuff, I pretty much think their "Do You Realize" is amazing.

Pinterest Challenge

2011-08-01T16:13:00.000-06:00

Last week I was reading some of my favorite design blogs and saw the Pinterest Challenge that had been issued by three of my favorites Sherry of Young House Love, Katie of Bower Power and Emily of Secrets of a Stylist. The challenge was just the motivation I needed.

Source: littlegreennotebook.blogspot.com via Jamie on Pinterest

One of my very first pins was for Amy Butler's customized Ikea Maskros light I saw on Little Green Notebook. I've been trying to come up with a fun, non-toy birthday gift for my niece who turns 4 this month, and since all of her toys and clothes came out of storage just two weeks ago the last thing she needs is more of either item. I decided I would honor her love of all things purple and pink (she reminds us all at every opportunity they are her favorite colors) and build her a custom light fixture for her room.

She was with us at Ikea when I purchased the light - and I'm happy to say she noticed the light in a display and mentioned she liked it. (I think this girl has a future in design, she loves Ikea and will grab my hand to show me her favorites, and her taste is surprising modern. She also loves to look through fashion magazines picking out the gowns she likes best.)

The light was a bit more expensive than I thought, but once I had the idea in my head I couldn't resist. Luckily I got a great deal on the paint (30 cents a bottle at Michaels!)

Saturday was painting day - and just in case you are wondering, the light has 84 "flowers" on it to be painted, and I painted both sides. I managed to watch two movies while painting. For anyone wondering, I used basic craft paint and small sponge brushes, but spent the entire time wondering if it wouldn't have been easier to lay them all out and spray paint them.

Sunday I discovered the light actually need to be hung before you assemble it - but I wanted to have it done so I could submit it for the challenge, SO I got creative and hung it from the chandelier in my kitchen for assembly. I have no idea what I'm going to do with it for the next two weeks or how I'm going to get it to her house (I'm thinking it may need disassembled and then reassembled, but at least I have the satisfaction of completing the challenge.)

I'm happy with the way it turned out and can't wait to see it hung in her room. I'm now looking forward to trying out some of the other ideas I've pinned.

Did anyone else out there participate in the challenge? Wondering what Pinterest is, want to follow my boards, or need an invitation? If you do, let me know I'll send you an invitation.

I watched Eat Pray Love this weekend (thanks Kristine!) and have been humming this song every since.

Eddie Vedder - The Long Road

Changes and the Shabby Apple Winner

2011-07-29T17:00:00.000-06:00

Master Bedroom

Before - that white stuff on the walls is wallpaper

Last November I decided to do a little remodeling in my Salt Lake house. My master bed and bath were terribly outdated and I'd finally saved up enough $ to do the work. I picked out carpet, paint and tile and got started. First my mom helped me strip wallpaper until we could barely life our arms. Next up tile to replace the carpet (yes, I said carpet) in the bathroom. Then the painter came in and I started to fall in love with the new room. I started picking out accessories and scheduled the carpet installation.

Master Bath Before

There were bumps along the road, everything took longer than I anticipated, but the end was in sight. Then my sister and her family needed a place to stay while their new house was built and we decided we'd take on the adventure of all living together at my house. So I put the new carpet and the rest of the final touches on hold until everyone moved out (two toddlers on new carpet would have made me a nervous wreck.)

Last week I repainted the guest bedroom and started getting ready for the carpet to come in. As I write this the carpet installer is still doing his work, but I'm hoping next week to FINALLY call this project complete - and it only took 6 months. My goal for the weekend is to get everything upstairs put back together and to share some photos next week.

Anyone else had one of those home improvement projects that you thought you could finish in a month then had to live with it for 6 months? Frustrating at the time, but so joyful when it finishes.

Congratulations to Tiffany, the lucky winner of the Azure Coast dress from Shabby Apple. I think there are a lot of Shabby Apple fans out there, thanks to you all for stopping by and I hope to see you back here again in my little part of the blogging world.

I listened to Josh Ritter yesterday while I worked and this one got stuck in my head, maybe because of all the changes going on at my house lately.

Josh Ritter - Change of Time

Still Running

2011-07-27T17:00:00.002-06:00

When was the last time you had one of those weeks, where no matter how fast you run or how many things you tick off your to do list, you feel further behind with each day that passes? My week just isn't long enough, but at the same time, I feel somewhat energized because I am actually ticking things off the list (and some big things too like getting my second story re carpeted - a project I've been working on since last November.)

I'm also FINALLY getting around to turning part of my blog into a Blurb book. I bought a Groupon to Blurb a few months ago, and it expires at the end of the week (I'm not a procrastinator at all.) I started with the goal of turning my blog from 2008 and 2009 into a book. Now I'm just hoping to finish 2008. Anyone else used Blurb before? I'm happy with it so far, but it is somewhat time consuming. The only thing that is saving me this week is that 2008 was before I discovered photography so there are more word than photos in the book, but I'm also reliving an amazing vacation I took in 2008 and going through those photos (like the one above) have been so much fun.

Don't forget today at midnight (mountain time) is the deadline for entering the Shabby Apple Giveaway. The dress I ordered arrived today and it is so cute, I can't wait to wear it. Their 20% off plus free shipping sale also ends this week.

I suspect that at the end of the week, I'll still be running.

Eastmountainsouth - Still Running

A Love Letter to Kathmandu

2011-07-25T17:00:00.007-06:00

I hope you had a wonderful weekend - mine was full of a lot of work around the house and the chance to meet up with a friend (I'll tell you more about that later.)

The lovely (and lucky) Amanda of Project Simple Life is off on her great European Adventure, and while she is aways she's running a series of guest posts where she's asked fellow bloggers to write a love letter to one of their favorite places. My love letter to Kathmandu went up over the weekend. If you want to see and hear a bit about one of my favorite places in the world, hop on over and check it out.

Have you entered the Shabby Apple dress giveaway? Here's the link, you wouldn't want to miss out on this fantastic dress. Even if you don't win, Shabby Apple dresses are 20% off with free shipping, using the code summer20 - so if you are looking for the perfect summer dress now is the time.

I woke up Sunday with this Ingrid Michaelson song in my head: Be Ok. I can't help but wonder if there is some sort of subliminal message in there:

Giveaway: Shabby Apple

2011-07-22T17:01:00.002-06:00

I hinted on Monday that I had a surprised planned for you today, it's something I've been excited about all week long - a giveaway with a fantastic prize - this gorgeous, blue women's dress from Shabby Apple!

My summer wardrobe staple is a sundress. I don't love the way I look in capri's or shorts and jeans are too hot, so I spent the summer in dresses. My closet is full of colorful, fun dresses that are easy to dress-up or down depending on the occasion. Wearing a flirty dress makes me feel girly, a maxi dress makes me feel carefree and the all-purpose little black dress makes me feel elegant. In fact, a suitcase full of dresses is how I managed to fit over 3 weeks of clothing for a trip to Switzerland in a carry-on bag. I love this quote from their website: "A return to what dresses were always meant to be - a one piece outfit. No need to add anything...no tank tops, no cardigans, nothing (except accessories or course!)"

I've spent a bunch of time browsing Shabby Apple's website in the past few weeks, picking out a dress to giveaway and to find the perfect dress for myself (I have a gift certificate I'm ready to cash in) and the only problem I've had is narrowing my selection down, there are so many beautiful options, here are some of the dresses I'm considering for myself:

Adorable striped, green and navy dress

Amazing yellow dress

Sweet coral dress

Sophisticated navy dress

Perfect turquoise dress

To enter the giveaway, head over to Shabby Apple and look at their dresses, then come back here and comment telling me which your favorite is. If you are a subscriber/follower of this blog, add a second comment for an extra chance at winning. Comments will be accepted until end of day Wednesday, July 27, I'll announce the lucky winner next Friday.

Even if you don't win (or if you find a dress you just have to have NOW) Shabby Apple is giving you all 10% off with the coupon code: lyricaljourney10off, which will be good for the next 30 days. Even better, they also currently running a huge sale, with many of their dresses 20% off, so the time to shop is now (just enter SUMMER20 as the coupon code)!

If you fall in love with Shabby Apple like I have and want to start filling your wardrobe with dresses, be sure to head over to their Facebook page and "like" them so you can get in on special offers and deals. Even for those of you who may not be dress fans, give their website a look, they also sell the most awesome, retro women's swimwear, have some adorable girl's dresses, and gorgeous women's jewelry.

Thanks to Shabby Apple for providing the dress for this giveaway.

Because I'm in a super girly mood after writing this post and I've been listening to the new Peter Bradley Adams album all day, I think his song Katy is the perfect way to end this post:

Vacation Cottage: Before

2011-07-20T17:00:00.001-06:00

As promised here are some "before" photos of my little cottage. As you can tell, all we did was clean (which was a LOT of work), move furniture in and get out the linens needed to spend a day there. I've got a list of projects I want to do waiting for me to find the time and cash. Many of you are expert DIYers, so I'd love your suggestions and ideas. Most of the house is furnished with furniture that came from my grandparents' house, so it is gently used, but from a variety of different decades which makes for an interesting overall "look." Get ready for a long post.....

This is the front room/parlor. I only vaguely remember the couch my grandma had before this one so I'm betting this set came from the late 70's. I actually adore the shape and lines of the couch and hope to have it reupholstered some day, I'm thinking a dark, midnight blue shade. What do you think? Anyone out there had something this large redone and have any ideas about cost or recommendations on fabrics?

I'm less in love with the chairs, but hope redoing them will help. As for the side table, I like the lines, but don't love the finish. It's wood veneer, so I don't know how painting it would turn out. Anyone tried painting wood veneer before?

This is the great room/family room. I love the high ceilings and how open it is, I also like the light fixtures (which are great throughout the house.) Doesn't the couch just scream 90s? I'm hoping a slipcover will fix the couch and chair. I'd like to go a soft gray (do you think that will work with the tan/taupe walls?) as a backdrop for some bolder pillows - think sunny yellows and bright blues. Any favorite sources for affordable, but durable slipcovers?

The desk was mine (circa 2002, Target) I'm still trying to figure out where my workspace will be in the house, so this is a temporary spot for now. You'll notice nearly all the wood pieces in the house are light/blonde wood. Something I'm not in love with, but some I'm unsure about painting. The end tables and round coffee tables are veneer, the desk, kitchen table and chairs are wood, so a bit easier to paint. Any tips - would you use latex or spray paint on them? Color suggestions?

The kitchen is open to the great room and sits just behind the front room. I'm dreaming of painting the cabinets a creamy white - I just need to work up the nerve. I also dislike the white fridge next to the other black appliances - but don't know whether it is better to save up my pennies for a new one or get brave and paint it black (note, it had quit working between the time I got the keys to the house and the day I moved in, thank heavens for a insurance plan I asked the seller for.)

The table and chairs were mine, Crate and Barrel (circa 2000.) I'm hoping to find two more chairs to add to the mix at Goodwill or a consignment shop.

The Master bedroom - and the site of my first project. This bedroom set came from my grandma's house (mid 80s-ish) and I'm thinking of painting it all the pieces white - the gold of the French Provincial style doesn't really work against the tan walls (and I think it is dated.) Would you try latex or spray paint? Part of me wishes I was brave enough to paint it a bolder color, but I'm afraid I'd hate it next year. I'm planning to swap out the bedding, but am still figuring out what I want (and can afford) but until then, I love this hand-blocked bed cover I brought home from Delhi.

The main guest room, better known as "mom and dad's room" since they supplied the bed. There is only space here for the bed and a couple of nightstands (to be found, for now I just put a couple of old book cases on the sides of the bed.) I'm hoping to do some sort of DIY headboard, spray paint the ugly lamps and replace the shades.

The 3rd bedroom is the smallest, only big enough for a day bed (I had one found on the local classifieds, but lost out to someone else.) The photo is of the dresser, in the room. I'm guessing it is from the 50/60s since in my grandparent's room for as long as I remember. I probably won't attempt to do anything to it for that reason. When we got it out of the trailer, we discovered there were still sachets and a small container of body powder in the drawers so it even smells a bit like my grandma, which I loved.

There are two bathrooms, which are identical (but reversed.) I loved the framed mirrors and, like the kitchen, am hoping to paint the cabinets a creamy white. I'm also hoping to add some color with rugs, shower curtains and towels (when I find some on a killer sale.)

Finally, here is the back patio and a bit of the backyard. I'm hoping to find a little bistro set and spend the evenings out here when it cools down.

One of my very favorite parts of the house is actually the front yard, but I've decided it probably isn't wise to post the photo of the front of house on the internet and admit you aren't currently there, so you'll just have to trust me that it is adorable.

Thanks for sticking around for the tour of my little cottage - as you can tell I have some projects in my future. I really would love your advice and ideas - so feel free to share.

For today's song, I've been obsessing about Marc Broussard this week since I finally got a listen to his new album. This song isn't off the new album, but I love it and it seems the perfect song for today's post - so here's his Home:

Zurich

2011-07-18T17:00:00.000-06:00

Thanks for all of your best wishes for my move. It went well (thanks mostly to my incredible parents.) I'm still in recovery mode and haven't had a chance to get the photos off my camera, so I'm going to save them for another post and instead share my last set of photos from Switzerland (I promise this is it!)

My last day was spent in Zurich. It was a quiet Sunday and it was one of those perfect days where I had the entire day with nothing to do but wander, explore and take photos. I love days like that when there are no pressure and I'm free to just wander wherever the path takes me.

I was trying to get the sun just behind the steeple for this photo - which meant I wandered around a bit and at one point sat on a wall and leaned back over the ledge. A couple of women were watching me closely, so as I walked past them I shrugged and grinned, they smiled back and started talking to each other. I figured they were calling me a crazy tourist. But a few minutes later I glanced back and saw one of them using my angles to take a similar photo. That made me feel a lot less nuts. Does that kind of thing ever happen to you?

Hope you had an amazing weekend, I'm looking forward to getting caught up on your blogs - and make sure you check back here Friday or over the weekend, I have a fun surprise for you.

I spent a lot of time in my car this weekend and Sarah Sample kept me company while I drove, her voice is lovely and she writes incredible songs, give her a listen.

A Lot of Moving

2011-07-15T17:00:00.004-06:00

I love this little flower - it take courage to be different and stand out proudly in the crowd.

If everything goes as planned (fingers crossed) I'll be moving furniture into my little vacation house this weekend. My awesome family all pitched in last weekend to move my sister and her family out of my Salt Lake house into their new one and then to move my furniture back into my house and now I'm asking them to turn around and help me move furniture into the new place - that is a lot of heavy lifting to do in just over a weeks time. I think it is safe to say, I have a wonderful family.

If I can still lift my arms after the big moves, I'll share some photos of my little pad. It's going to be full of my late grandparent's furniture - I'm hoping over time I can make it look 'granny-chic' and not just 'land of cast-off furniture.'

I hope you have an amazing weekend!

Avett Brothers - A Lot of Moving

Luzern - Lake Cruise

2011-07-13T17:00:00.002-06:00

When I arrived in Luzern it was pouring rain. Since wandering old town while wearing sandals in the rain didn't sound like tons of fun, I decided to do a lake cruise and hope it stopped raining by the time I was finished. It was a brilliant idea. Not only did I stay dry (for the most part) the ride was beautiful.

My favorite photo from that Saturday trip is this moody shot - for me it summed up that cold, dreary morning perfectly. The water, the trees, the mountains peaking out behind the layers of clouds - ah, just the way I remember it.

This is pretty much how I expected most of the little Swiss villages to look - completely charming and beautiful.

We cruised past this castle and I couldn't help but wish I could see inside - or at least know what type of person owns a castle like this along the lake.

This song came up on my iPod while I was on the train to Luzern, I knew I'd heard it before, but I couldn't figure out where. It drove me nuts until I could bet back to my computer and do a little googling. Then, of course, I felt silly for not recognizing it right away. Which version do you like best?

Placebo - Running Up That Hill

Kate Bush - Running Up That Hill

Luzern - Old Town

2011-07-11T17:00:00.001-06:00

One of the highlights of my trip was meeting up with the incredible Krystal - we've been blogging buddies for a while and it was so fun to finally meet her in person. She graciously got up extremely early to meet me at the Zurich train station for breakfast on my last day in Switzerland. She was even more lovely in person, and if you don't already read her blog, you really should check it out, she finds and shares the most beautiful things.

Krystal has just moved to Luzern, a charming little city I visited on my first weekend there (turns out she was there that day showing some friends around too, but we didn't know that until later.) I think she is crazy lucky to live in such a charming place.

Luzern has a charming old town a short distance from the train station. There are several bridges you can cross to get to Old Town, I loved both the old wooden bridge (first photo) and this lovely metalwork bridge - it was a very rainy day so the umbrellas added a bit of color.

I didn't spend a lot of time shopping in old town (a three week trip in carry on luggage means no space for shopping.) But I did stick my head into H&M to look for sunglasses since I broke mine the day before I left. I was sad to find that I'm too old/not cool enough for the sun glasses they are selling now - how did that happen? Instead I gave up completely on the shopping and kept wandering.

Anyone out there have any good tips on finding sunglasses this year? I'm after a pair that doesn't cover my entire face - and that fit my sunglass rule - nothing over $30. I've found the second I shell out more money than that they will break/get lost within the first two weeks of ownership.

I finally picked up the entire Noah and the Whale album - some very good music. Here's their Life Is Life

Picnic at the Grove

2011-07-08T17:00:00.000-06:00

When I was growing up my family had a favorite campground just 20 minutes from home. We loved spending weekends at Maple Grove, where there were lots of trails, a little creek and lots of shade. It is still one of my favorite places on earth.

Last Sunday we decided a picnic at the Grove was a perfect way to spend part of the afternoon - and we were right. It was so fun to show the kids some of our favorite trails.

Do you like camping? Do you have a favorite place you like to go back to time and time again?

Ryan Tanner is a Salt Lake artist and I'm a little in love with this song.

Hometown 4th of July

2011-07-06T17:00:00.001-06:00

My favorite way to celebrate the 4th of July is in my tiny hometown. Everyone gathers at the park where there is good food, games and races for the kids and usually lots and lots of sunshine.

After lots of prep and coaching in the weeks leading up to the big race my niece pulled off a win, her second in 3 years. My nephew did well too - 3rd place isn't bad for a 2 year old. Next time I think we'll make sure to give them the cotton candy before the race - a little sugar can only help their speed.

Joe Whyte - 4th of July

All in the Details

2011-07-01T17:00:00.001-06:00

A lot of little things seemed to catch my eye on this trip. It may be because I spent most of the trip as a commuter and didn't have a ton of time to play tourist and take in the sites. Here are a few of my favorite random day in the life shots:

I saw these bikes while I was waiting on the train in Friborg

I walked past this house every morning on my way to the bus stop.

This may be the most orderly woodpile I've ever seen

The houses/shops across for the bus stop where I switched lines each evening.

Mirrors at nearly every driveway.

Over the past 5 years I've spent so much time away from home, first in Brazil, then India and finally Kentucky, it felt like I was always experiencing a new place. Then as I settled in at home for 8 months (most of which was winter), I think I let myself get into a bit of a rut. It was nice to shake things up and feel inspired to look around again, now I just have to figure out how to keep the inspiration flowing at home.

This song came on as I was walking to my apartment on Friday - it was one of those songs I felt could have been written about me.

Holly Williams - Let Her Go

Let her go, let her go

Let her fall, let her fly

She wants to touch the whole world with her hands

One of those rare times YouTube has let me down, you'll just have to track it down on your own.

Can I blame it on jet lag?

2011-06-29T17:00:00.004-06:00

I'm struggling to get back up to speed at home, I'm blaming it on jet lag, but it could just as easily be the craziness that is my life right now, which is all just an excuse for today's super short post. I still have more photos and stories to post about Switzerland, but it's just going to have to wait until my brain catches up with life.

Until then, yesterday I wrote guest post for one of my favorite daily read blogs, The Kat Eye View of the World. The wonderful and talented, Kat is moving home to Portland from Italy and asked other folks like me who had lived abroad and moved home to share a bit about our experiences. It was such a fun post to write, if you have a chance hop on over and check it out.

This band is new to me, but I'm liking this mellow song.
The Low Anthem - To Ohio

By Bus and By Plane

2011-06-27T17:00:00.001-06:00

Today is a travel day for me, so as you are reading this, I'll still be navigating one of the 2 train stations and 4 airports I'll be visiting on my way home. Cross your fingers that I manage to make all of my somewhat tight connections. I still have some more photos and stories from Switzerland to share later this week once I get unpacked and back on the correct timezone. I hope you all had a wonderful weekend and that your week is off to a good start.

Congratulations to the adorable and talented Amanda of Project Simple Life. She is the lucky winner of the postcards, I can't wait to hear how she's going to use them.

On a musical note, I asked my Swiss coworker if there were any Swiss artists I might know - thinking it would be fun to post some of those songs here, the only one he came up with was this.

If this causes anyone else to rewatch Ferris Bueller let me know, I foresee it hitting the top of my netflix queue this week!

Things that made me go "hmm"

2011-06-24T17:00:00.002-06:00

Shortly after a rainstorm over the weekend I went out for a walk. As I got close to my apartment the cute little guy in the top photo caught my eye. He was slowly making his way across the road, at (get ready for it) a snail's pace.

For some reason it made me grin that he was moving across the "stop" sign and I thought it would make a cute triptych.

It was only after I got home and started putting the photos together that I noticed something else. I'm in the French-speaking portion of Switzerland, so why is the stop painted in English.......hmmm?

We are going old skool musically for this post...

Don't forget to enter the postcard giveaway, you have until the end of day today.

Giveaway: Postcards

2011-06-22T12:06:00.000-06:00

Photo from my favorite postcard

I'm interrupting my endless travel stories for a very good reason - a giveaway.

The day before I left for Switzerland I got some postcards I had made in the mail (in preparation for Kat's Postcard Swap.) It was such a rush to see my photographs printed as postcards - when I opened the package I felt like an artist!

UPrinting

When UPrinting, an online printing company, asked me if I wanted to do a postcard giveaway, I said yes right away. Even if you aren't participating in Kat's swap, I can think of several postcard designs that might come in handy - Christmas cards, invitations, even something for your business. Here's some details on the giveaway:

The winner will receive 100 5x7 postcards, printed on 14 pt Cardstock, gloss, no folding, with front and back printing. There is a two business day print turnaround time and (sorry) the giveaway is restricted to US residents 18 years old and above.

To enter, comment on this post telling me what kind of postcards you'd make (be sure to include an email). You can add a second comment if you are a subscriber/follower to this blog. Comments must be received by end of day Friday, June 24 (MST.)

Coldplay - Postcards From Far Away

Disclaimer: Required as per FTC Ruling

This giveaway is sponsored by UPrinting, an online printing company, no monetary compensation was given and I will receive postcards for hosting. See more information about postcards and available postcard designs on UPrinting.com.

Sunday Stroll

2011-06-20T17:00:00.000-06:00

The weather was terrible a good part of the weekend - so Saturday I stuck to the house and caught up on a few things. Sunday the sun came out and I joined half of the city in the area called Ouchy - it is so beautiful and perfect for a Sunday stroll.

One of my favorite things about being in Europe is the architecture. Having spent most of my life in the US (and the Western US at that) I'm not used to buildings that have so much history. We are lucky to see something that is 100 years old - let alone hundred's of years.

These grand, sweeping buildings always catch my eye and make me wish we had a bit bit more variety in architectural styles at home.

Things here are built to last - some of these buildings are hundreds of years old and are still so beautiful and charming.

I've just got one week left to go here, I can't believe how quickly this trip has flown by!

I listened to this song as I walked home from the bus stop on Sunday - an oldie, but a goodie.

Mary Chapin Carpenter - A Place In The World

Planes, Trains, Ferries and Buses

2011-06-17T17:00:00.000-06:00

It seems as if I've managed to use every mode of transport this trip - with the possible exception of a hot air ballon. And I've decided the stereotype about everything in Switzerland running precisely on time, may just be true. The public transport system here has been so easy to use - even for someone who doesn't speak French or German.

I've also decided that seeing a place through the eyes of a daily commuter is a blast. After a week, I'm starting to recognize faces, the walk/ride/run gives me a chance to check out the architecture, cars and other sights, then I get to work and get to ask questions. I've noticed there are some very fancy cars here - which led to a discussion about the wealth in the country. The next day I noticed the garbage men and wondered what kind of a living they made and how they could afford to live here (everything is so expensive.) Luckily my coworkers are happy to answer my questions and I feel like I've already learned a few things.

Just a quick post - I'm off to dinner with a friend in Friborg. Dinner with E is one of the reasons I love my job. She's Australian, but had been living in the UK just before we met in Brazil, we then lived together for a while in India, then she moved onto Canada and I cam back to the US. Now she's living here in Switzerland and we get to meet up for dinner. The world really isn't as big as we sometimes think it is.

I've been craving a little Mumford & Sons all day - so here's a little something to take you into the weekend. Do you have something fun planned?

Mumford & Sons White Blank Page

People Watching

2011-06-15T17:00:00.000-06:00

I'm not much of a street photographer - too afraid to ask people if I can take their photo. But I spent Sunday along the waterfront in Lausanne and managed to grab a couple of shots I couldn't resist sharing.

It was a beautiful day, perfect temperature and it felt as if half the city had the same idea I had and were hanging out along the water too. Lausanne (and much of Switzerland) shuts down on Sundays. The shops are all closed, with the exception of a cafe or two, and people just rest. Even public transport cuts down to the bare minimum. I think I could kind of get into that lifestyle, and I may follow their example the rest of my trip, work M-F, play Saturday and relax on Sunday.

If I'd been anywhere else, I might have thought this was a homeless person, but she was covered up with a nice blanket and good sweater so I think she must have just been cold or trying to get some sun without getting burned.

The woman in the cream slacks grabbed my attention right away. Not only did she have the chic European look, she was so expressive. I happened to be sitting on a bench and watched them walking down the path. I attempted to "shoot from the hip" to get these shots. Turned out better than I expected!

How do you feel about street photography? Are you brave enough to walk up and ask someone if you can take their photo? Or do you just attempt the "shoot from the hip" method?

I have been on a Ryan Bingham kick for the past couple of weeks. I just can't seem to get enough of his gravelly voice.

Ryan Bingham - Don't Wait For Me

Breakfast and Dinner

2011-06-13T17:00:00.002-06:00

I haven't been here a week yet and I've already found new favorites. I seem to have some combination of this meal for breakfast and dinner.

Pears - I'm trying different varieties and haven't found one I don't like.
Cheese - I bought a wedge of Gruyere my first day here and am still working on it - so good. I'm trying a soft cheese next, any suggestions?
Yogurt - Can someone please explain why at home I feel the need to add honey to plain yogurt, but here I like plain just as it is. I'm honestly curious about the different flavors, so if someone knows the answer please share.

I've bought the dessert to go along my meal, chocolate, but haven't opened it yet (I'm afraid I'll eat the entire thing if I do.

There is a great grocery store near where I switch buses, I've spent a bit of time there already and keep finding excuses to go back. One of my favorite things to do when I travel is explore grocery stores. I think you can learn a lot about the area and the culture by checking them out. One surprise this time - prepackaged meals have arrived in Switzerland, I don't remember seeing those on my last visit. I bought a lentil salad to try when I get tired of pears and cheese.

Am I the only person that finds grocery stores fun to visit?

I heard this song on the train Saturday, one line seemed to stick in my head: "And if your too busy talking, you're not busy listening, to hear what the land has to say. Quiet your mind."

Zac Brown Band - Quiet Your Mind

The Journey So Far

2011-06-10T14:20:00.000-06:00

The view from my balcony - isn't it dreamy?

Years ago I kept a travel journal where I recorded the interesting or strange things that happened along the way, this blog has taken that journal's place. So this post may bore everyone but my mom, but it's late here and I'm tired, but I'm determined to record a few memories.

When I got a look at my itinerary, with multiple layovers, a hotel stay and a train ride all before I made it to Lausanne (my destination) I decided if ever there was a trip that called for carry on only, this was it. It wasn't easy to pack for a 3 week business trip in carry on luggage, but I managed it (barely.) The lack of room in my suitcase will keep me from shopping which is a good thing. The bad news is I sacrificed my good camera and just brought my point and shoot, here's hoping I can still get a few good shots.
I spent 9 long hours in the Madrid airport, what a gorgeous airport, I just wish I had been less interested in sleep and more interested in exploring the architecture.
I finally arrived in Lausanne at 6:30 PM, raced to find the train from the airport to the main train station - raced because I'd been told SwissCom closed between 7 and 8 and I needed a Swiss SIM card - my lovely Verizon phone doesn't work here.
After what felt like forever wandering around the station I finally found SwissCom, where a nice guy hooked me up - so glad he spoke English!
Now it was time to find my hotel. Lesson for next trip - don't print driving directions when you need to walk. I got hopelessly lost - what should have been a 7 minute walk was at least 30 - better yet it was raining.
Finally found the hotel, went to my room and couldn't get the key to work, back to the desk, back up to the room, still didn't work, back to the desk, this time they came with me. Oh no, I was trying the wrong room, how embarrassing - I blame it all on jet lag.
Slept til 5 AM (more jet lag) then up and back to the train station. Figure out how to buy a ticket to Lausanne and where to find the right platform. I was 45 minutes early because I was afraid of getting lost, good time for people watching.
Beautiful train ride, met at the airport by old friends and co-workers. It is so nice to be here.
Discover the plan is for me to stay in a colleague's apartment (he's out of town) and drive his car. Sadly, I can't drive a stick shift - and I don't plan to learn in his fancy car in a city built on a hill!
Beg a ride for Friday morning and convince everyone I can indeed ride the bus and hike up the hill at the end of the day.
Spend a good part of the day trying to decide what to do over a long weekend - so many choices. Still trying to work it out at 10 PM.
Figure out the bus route, hit the station to buy a pass, discover I need a photo to do so, get lucky and actually get a GOOD photo out of a vending machine - why doesn't that happen at the DMV?
Works over, time to try the bus. I make all the stops and even manage to do a bit of grocery shopping when I transfer lines. I feel completely empowered, I am set for transport on this trip. Watch out Switzerland, I'm exploring you every weekend.
Then the really scary part - trying to use a map to find the apartment (that hill was steep, I'm going to have strong legs and buns when I get home.) Get lost, see the apartment beyond the vineyard, take a shortcut through said vineyard, get to apartment but must climb over a fence to get there (wearing a dress!) Finally get to the apartment and find a gate that I can open with my key, think I've lost my key, think about crying, find my key, ahhhh I made it.
Sitting on the balcony eating pears and cheese for dinner - perfect way to spend a Friday evening.
What's that flash of light - fireworks over the lake - they must be celebrating my arrival (or whatever holiday is on Monday?)

Good thing I enjoy getting a bit lost when I travel and having things go not quite as I planned. I figure I'll not only get a good story, I'll find things I never would have seen if everything had gone as planned. I can't wait to see what adventures the 3 day weekend will bring, it's a holiday here on Monday - am I lucky or what?

I listened to this on the train ride from Zurich - it was gorgeous accompanied by the Swiss countryside.

Brooke Fraser & Aqualung - Who Are We Fooling (feat. Aqualung)

Cheese and Chocolate

2011-06-08T17:00:00.006-06:00

This has nothing to do with my post - just a little something pretty to look at.

As if my world weren't full of enough stress and excitement as it is (see my last post) but last Friday as I was getting ready to head out the door for the inspection on my little house I got a call from my boss. They wanted me in Switzerland as soon as I could get there for the rest of June.

I frantically started pulling together all the paperwork I'd need to close on the house, did a ton of laundry and started packing. I'm flying Tuesday and Wednesday - so as you read this I'll probably still be on a plane - let's just say booking a last minute flight meant lots and lots of layovers (hello Spain, I've never been here before, wish I could stay a day or two.)

I know I'm going for work - and there will be lots of it - but I'm also very excited. I haven't been in Switzerland for about 6 years and I loved it then. I can't wait to see more and to have a bit more time there. As soon as I recover from jet lag, I'll be off to the market for cheese and chocolate!

Have you been to Switzerland? Any tips and advice? Things I have to see?

While I fly, here's a bit more Tony Lucca - I really can't get enough of him lately.

Tony Lucca - I Can, I Will, I Do (Solo) (free download from amazon)