Chronicles of Nadya

Ear Worm

2012-02-10T07:00:00.000-05:00

This video is so clever and the song is sweet. Lovely.

xoxo, friends.

Leave the Past Behind...

2012-02-09T16:56:00.001-05:00

I havent slept much in a while. This is what my 5pm gchats look like after a 5:30am wake up call, teaching evaluation, teaching 2 lectures, a lunch meeting, 2 hours of packed office hours, and miles to go before I sleep...wait, leave the past behind Nadya!:)

me: hey

you know that biblical story

where that lady turns around

and turns to salt

i think that was god trying to say to humanity

the past is in the past

go forward

or you will turn to salt

just saying

Emily: i like that interpretation

me: i dont want to be salty

there is a similar scene

in the lion king

when rafiki

hits simba over the head

and simba says, what was that for

and rafiki says, it doesnt matter, it was in the past

yea, that is another reminder to leave the past behind

Emily: lion king and the bible

words of wisdom

it's true

A Good Foundation

2012-02-09T07:00:00.000-05:00

A few weeks ago, I mentioned that I was in search of a new make-up foundation and I forgot to report until today (thanks for reminding me, Mom) that I found one!

After I wash my face and moisturize, I use the following products in the following order:
1) Oil free Primer
2) Spot concealer- I use this sparingly and only when I have a blemish that needs to be covered.
3) Eye primer- If I have not slept well (which has occurred more frequently lately because of some work stress) or I am feeling slightly anemic (lack of iron), then I find my under eye circles are incredibly dark. This product really does the trick in hiding the circles while still moisturizing.
4) Lightweight tinted moisturizer- Laura Mercier Oil-free tinted moisturizer in Nude
5) Mascara- I use Almay sensitive eye formula. My eyes really loathe mascara, especially when I wear contacts and Almay does not irritate me too much...if anyone has a great mascara for really sensitive eyes let me know! I would love a brand that I could use daily without irritation.
6) Blush
7) Clear Lip balm (I only wear lipstick when I am about to head out for a hot date or I am going to give a lecture)

This is what I look like with these exact products on my face. In this picture, my hair had been professionally blown out so don't start thinking that I wake up with hair like that. I have extremely wavy wild hair (it happened when I turned 29...my hair went from stick straight to wavy overnight. It was freaky.)

This whole routine takes me 8 minutes (tops). I timed it several times to check. I am not one to belabor make-up application or getting ready in general...This routine works. Interestingly, my skin has been incredibly clear since I turned 30. That is a good thing and this make-up routine just gives me a polished clean look.

Be well, friends.

Playing under the table and dreaming...

2012-02-08T07:30:00.000-05:00

It is wintery and grey here. It is not that cold but my body wishes warm weather was here. I have longed to visit the Seychelles. The beaches look pristine and secluded and I just imagine it to be heaven on Earth.
Here is what I imagine: I would get there, put on a bikini, and not remove it except to go to dinner for an entire week. I envision not seeing a laptop, hearing a phone ring, or having any email ding the entire time. There would be cold gin and tonics with lots of yummy limes, endless books available, and complete peace. It would be warm and sunny.
I want to stay here:

Four Seasons Seychelles or here Banyan Tree Seychelles

I have to save up for a long time to get the plane tickets and afford the hotel for even a few nights (at $1000/night...eep). But six months ago, when I started my position at Wellesley, I promised myself that I would save a bit of money each month to plan for my dream trip. I am a firm believer that if I can't even let myself dream something then it will surely never happen. So here is to dreaming...and making it all come true.

Be well, friends.

On A Lighter Note.

2012-02-07T11:30:00.000-05:00

Emily sent this to me. Hilarious.

Bill Murray is Awesome

Welcome Breeze

2012-02-07T09:20:00.002-05:00

"Life brings many happy entrances and exits, as welcome as a soothing wind, others filled with heartache. But life is change and each new beginning is a passage in time, bringing with it refined meanings and new perspectives to the woman I am. Every change is an opportunity and a blessing."

A soothing wind has been welcomed into my life. The breeze is eroding those rough and painful edges in my heart. Overtime, they might completely disappear. I feel calmer and softer. My faith was strong that good things were coming my way if I stayed on a path that made room for grace. It has been so unexpected how easily grace floated into my life when I stopped getting in my own way and let it in.

However, there is a tender spot in my heart that reminds me of the painful exits. The passage quoted above was hand painted on a special box that Leigh gifted me many years ago. In March, it will be Leigh's 30th birthday. I miss her so much. God, I miss her. I feel that deep longing to have my best friend next to me. In my darkest hours over the last few years, I would imagine her sitting on the edge of my bed stroking my back and soothing my worried soul. I imagined her telling me it would all be okay- that this heartache was one of the many passages in life and that welcome breezes would return. Now that such a welcome breeze has entered my life, I wish I could share it with her. Her heart would burst with happiness. We knew each others dreams and also knew what we would never be...I miss you Leigh.

Love your friends, friends.

Ear worm

2012-02-06T19:44:00.002-05:00

I love these songs...totally appropriate for Valentine's day.

The Quiz by Hello Saferide

Little Romance by Ingrid Michaelson

May that longtime moon beam down upon you, friends.

Weekend Round Up

2012-02-06T07:18:00.001-05:00

This was another wonderful weekend after a really intense week at work. Last week, my car was also in the shop for the second time in two weeks but this time they finally fixed the problem- new spark plugs and wires! My old 1998 Toyota Camry is a faithful steed. Anyways, by Friday afternoon I had my car back at home with me and I was lounging on the sofa in my post work week haze. I watched two hours of the Kardashians in New York. It was like I didn't want to watch it but I couldn't stop. Yuck. It made me feel so gross that I took a shower (well, I also needed to shower to meet up with friends for dinner...but still).

So once I moved off the sofa on Friday night, the weekend got busy:
Dinner at Five Guys with my favorite faculty friends- those burgers and fries are delicious
Valentine's shopping at Nordstroms with my pals
Drinks at Uno's and some dancing in the booth, I love being silly
Late night (2am) house cleaning and tidying (seriously, having two rum and cokes after 10pm makes it impossible to sleep at midnight)
Early wake up on Saturday- news watching, showering, grocery shopping
Airport pick up!
Lake views, lounging by the fire, roast chicken dinners and delightful laughter...swoon
Sunday airport drop off :(
5 hours in the office- lectures prepped, data searches, and lots of paper writing
Phone conversations with January and Mom
Leftover chicken dinner with my friends, brownie bites, banana bread, and pirate's booty for Puppy Bowl (I am not really into football) and the Super Bowl half-time show!
Passed out asleep at 9:30pm

This happy girl was all tuckered out.
Happy Monday, friends.

One more thing...

2012-02-03T10:35:00.002-05:00

If you have a dry eye, you have no heart. Wow.

xoxo/

I Spy

2012-02-03T09:11:00.000-05:00

Swoon. Perfection.
Wow. I want that whole outfit and a weekend away in NYC so that I can wear it and feel extra cool.

Unexpected and cool
The other day I was wearing these skinny leg red corduroy pants and in a pinch I put on my tall (maybe 3 inch) oxford black laced heels with a causal fitted black shirt. the proportions were off and the outfit was delightfully weird. It certainly did not fit in with Wellesley fashion but it felt fun. I think I felt like the girl in the link above felt. I might rock that look again sometime soon.

Because love is grand.
It is okay to be cheesy and love this. I give you permission.

Because i need help.
I have three cacti that have been thriving since last May. They have moved from Champaign to DC to Boston and survive my utter neglect and stupidity. I think I overwater my cacti. Who does that? Who leaves their three cacti about the radiator on full blast? Doh. but they are still kicking, miraculously. Also, I have had this old snail planter sitting empty in my room for years and this spring it is my intention to properly pot a plant in it. This tutorial will help.

Eye of Sauron fireplace, hehe
So I actually love the idea of a hanging ventless fireplace. One day... Dwell has a few ideas in it this month for options. But, doesn't the first one pictured in the link above look like the Eye of Sauron from Lord of the Rings? Awesome. Alright, I just played my nerd card.

May the longtime sun shine upon you, friends.

L-O-V-E!

2012-02-02T11:06:00.000-05:00

My blogger vacation was obviously short-lived.

I arrived home to the most romantic gesture.

A dozen long stemmed red roses.

I am a lucky woman.

Love is lovely.

Sometimes, I feel like I won the lottery.

xoxo.

Vacation

2012-01-31T12:20:00.004-05:00

Hi friends!

I hope all is well in life. I am doing great.
There is lots of love, dancing, reading, writing, lecturing, and hoping happening every day for me.
My life is full and happy right now but I just feel the need to protect all the good by taking a bit of rest.

Stop and kiss some bunnies, friends.

Power crystals

2012-01-30T08:04:00.002-05:00

I received the communication below from my meditation group. The message reaffirms my belief that in this world we get out what we put in and our energy attracts certain people to us. I needed to hear this when I woke up early this morning. It made me happy. I have a full day today: a lecture to give, loads of meetings, meditation class, and belly dancing! Remembering that compassionate awareness comes from within me and spreads to others keeps me sailing smoothly throughout the day. Alright, I will pack away my power crystals and stop acting so hippy dippy:)

This compassionate awareness is within us: the curiosity we opened to so easily as a child, the energy of falling in love, of going on a vacation, of looking up at the stars.

As we practice, and our consciousness becomes clear, this compassion begins to resonate so strongly and deeply that like a magnet, it supports others, drawing them into alignment with their essence.

In the morning bell chant we chant in Korean Zen there is a beautiful poem,

Holding these beads,I perceive this world
with emptiness as the string,
there is nothing unconnected.

This compassion connects the beads, and it is the realization that we are already connected. This basic goodness is what continues throughout time, in all situations, and illuminates our path.

May the longtime sun shine upon you, friends.

Best Weekend

2012-01-29T15:46:00.003-05:00

I had a wonderful weekend. Friday night was a lovely time and a great dinner. Magic.
On Saturday, Christi drove down from New Hampshire to spend time with me. We got a bit of a late start but finally made it to Back Bay and Newbury Street for a little shopping. I spied this little view and an iron heart.

Faith in Between

iron heart

I returned an ill fitting dress and exchanged it for a new one: Kate Spade Pippa dress. Then we had a sushi lunch. I enjoyed a giant bowl of tuna and salmon sashimi with sliced avocados on the side. Afterward we picked up some cupcakes for a late evening snack.

By the time we made it back to Wellesley, we were ready to relax at home. My friend Jenny and Christi's college friend, Kristin, came over to share some pizza, wine, champagne, beer (oh my!), cupcakes, chocolate, and laughs. There were lots of laughs. But we also had really serious conversations. All of us are in different places in life and lots of support was offered. Everyone has a story. Everyone should have the chance to tell it. Every woman should be so lucky to have an audience of beautiful and smart friends to help sustain her faith in between while she is reaching for those 2012 miracles. Those are some lovely ladies. I am so thankful for my friends.

May the longtime sun shine upon you, friends.

Six Word Memoir

2012-01-27T11:23:00.001-05:00

What is your six word memoir?

Mine is:
"I did my very best, always."

May the longtime sun shine upon you, friends.

Shhh

2012-01-27T07:30:00.000-05:00

I am so excited to attend a talk by Pico Ayer next Monday.

He wrote this fantastic article recently about the joy of quiet. I am notorious for always listening to music or having some background noise in my office and home. I am not vacationing in monastic hideaways (though I asked about going to one over the holidays and my Mom notified me that there was actually one close by home, then she commented I should just go sit on a beach alone and be quiet if I wanted silence...monasteries seemed too dreary, she felt...perhaps). I do try to take a few moments of quiet everyday. Often, it is on my walk to work. The longest period of silence I experience (aside from sleep) is usually during my weekly meditation sessions. I do feel more peaceful after quiet time.

Shh, friends;)

Boomie!!

2012-01-26T07:30:00.000-05:00

So, some of you know that my childhood pet name is "Boomie." In Arabic that means "little owl." Anyways, I have a slight owl obsession. Christi (who is having a slumber party with me this weekend!!!) had this lovely conversation with me and shared the best owl video ever.

Our conversation:
Christi:

I do enjoy this owl: Happy owls

Nadya:

OMG

i love the owl

this is going on my blog

you rock

haha

Christi:

hahahahah

I watch it over and over

Nadya:

it is so cute

i am in love

lets get owls

harry potter style

that is what we will do on saturday

okay?

okay

that is settled

Christi:

only if they are baby owls that like to be petted

Nadya:

good point

So excited for Saturday and a pet owl;)

On Missing Someone

2012-01-25T07:30:00.000-05:00

I am so lucky to have people in my life that love me no matter howfar away I am. I am in the earlyplanning stages of my summer research trips to the Middle East. The creepinganxiety I feel as I plan these trips is that I am going to leave for severalweeks and no one will miss me or I will be forgotten. When I am alone in arefugee camp and I feel a bit homesick and friend sick, it means the world toknow that I am missed. Threads of my other life are knitted to my soul nomatter the distance. If you are missing someone today, do let her know. It says that you love them and that theymatter.

My conversation with Emily about it all…

Nadya:

when i travel

for work alone

the thing i love hearing

is that i will be missed

why?

because it means that your presence matters to them

that when you are away

that your smile/voice/presence would be greatly missed at home

that you matter!

i always tell people that i miss them

when i do

just saying

Emily:

Nadya:

so i miss you

is what i am saying to you

dear emily

haha

Emily:

haha

i miss you too

Nadya:

aww yay

i was kinda fishing for that one

from you

Emily:

hahaha

no need, it's true!

Life is gooood

2012-01-24T07:30:00.000-05:00

There are these moments in life when I realize I just might be brilliant. It is rare, but they happen. Today, January 24, on the eve of the new semester I woke up with a smile but also with a pitter patter in my heart. Why? Classes start tomorrow. Gone are my relaxed research days and 2-4pm lunch breaks of Murder She Wrote on my sofa at home. Sigh.

Be still my beating heart, you are smart. Aside from the fact that lectures for Thursday are done, a week ago I booked a massage for myself for Tuesday January 24 at 3pm. One hour of deep tissue massage with a focus on my aching Zumba neck and tense computer shoulders.
Goodness, I am one smart cookie.

Relax, friends.

Ache

2012-01-23T16:02:00.003-05:00

I don't dedicate my poems, but this is for my friend. I feel her ache. Sending you lots of red string from Wellesley to Champaign. xoxo, Nadya

...

Myogenic muscular organ

Red and pulsating

Rhythmic contractions

Actually whole.

Actually strong

Capable of pumping

for a long

Long

Time.

Figuratively split open

Figuratively knitted together

Red fibrous threads

Clinging to the hope

It will permanently heal

Scar tissue will meld

Absorb into the body

Harmonious.

nsh, 1/23/12

Meditation

2012-01-23T12:04:00.000-05:00

I am fortunate to be part of a community where so many lovely opportunities are free to enjoy. Wellesley has meditation sessions offered three times a week. The Buddhist nun that resides at Wellesley is fantastic. Tonight after work, I am headed to meditation. In practicing my faith, I incorporate lots of different religious and cultural practices. On the eve of a new semester at work and in life, it is important to sit still, feel those red strings I am always babbling about, and just be.

There is a circle here ....
There is a web
A network
Strands connecting
Those who share the vision
Who feel the hope
Who sense the mystery
We touch life
We hear the planet’s pulse
We work quietly
Together
And alone
Each task
Each piece
Each a part of wholeness
There is a circle here ....
--Hopi poem

Twitterpated

2012-01-23T08:51:00.000-05:00

I was so goofy and silly yesterday because of my lack of sleep on Saturday night. I had funny phone chats with friends. However, I had the best time at brunch with two of my favorite people in Wellesley, Brett and Jenny. Such memorable lines from phone chats and brunch include:

Nadya: Is Downtown Abbey good"
Christi: Umm, yea. I am obsessed.
Nadya: I will watch an episode of it on Netflix.
Why is it called Donwtown Abbey?
Christi: It is not. It is Downton Abbey.
Nadya: Oh. That is probably why I haven't found it on Netflix.
Christi: You sound tired, Nad.
Nadya: Indeed. I am going to go watch Down-TON Abbey now.

Brunch notes:
Jenny: "I have a social life. I visit prisons all the time."
Nadya: "Perhaps you do not have a social life if your 'friends' are literally captive."

Or how about this:
Jenny:"I feel worried for the safety of that mortician girl."
Brett: "Well, I know that if any of us die sometime soon, we are all getting embalmed by her."
Nadya: "I want a natural funeral, no embalming."

Brett: "Do you know what twitterpated means?"
A table of academics looks up at him blankly. So he looks it up in Urban dictionary.

Twitterpated: An enjoyable disorder characterized by feelings of excitement, anticipation, high hopes, recent memories of interludes, giddiness, and physical overstimulation which occur simultaneously when experiencing a new love. These feelings take over without warning, usually at odd times (such as at a check-out line), with or without the partner present, and make it difficult to concentrate on anything but romance. They interfere with work and safe driving, but should be experienced at least once in every person's lifetime.

Be happy, friends.

Happy Sunday

2012-01-22T10:14:00.000-05:00

Happy Sunday friends!There was so much fun had this weekend.I cleaned my house, did laundry, and got ready for the semester ahead.Wellesley had a small snow storm and I cooked up a storm at home.I enjoyed a lovely dinner party.Despite my best efforts, I could not sleep much last night.It is okay, I will crash tonight.Shortly, I am headed to brunch with friends. yum.Then there is this Matlock marathon on TV and I might just snuggle under my covers and nap.All is well.xoxo

Lash

2012-01-19T15:07:00.002-05:00

black and arching spine
covered in glycerine

resting on your cheek

wish
for what
i want you
to want

wish for me.

nsh, circa 2002

Spring Things

2012-01-18T09:31:00.002-05:00

It is only the middle of January but I am eagerly awaiting the return of Spring. Understandably, it is going to be a long time coming in Wellesley but that hasn't stopped me from finding a few spring things to get excited about.

Some of these things I have already purchased and some of these things are on my lust list.

Pretty dresses:

Kate Spade Striped Audette Dress
This dress is fantastic. It looks like spring and summer and warmth and happy times. I want it. My Mom actually sent me the link to it late one night...so cruel to tempt me. I fear by the time I can get around to purchasing it, it will sell out in my size. Err, there are no more size 2s as of this morning. Oh well, if it is meant to be then one more will wait for me in some store.

Ted Baker Hosci dress
I loved this dress the first time I spotted it in Real Simple magazine this month. I have a big day next week where I meet Secretary Madeleine Albright, a giant department meeting, and an event with the board of Trustees at night. This dress when paired with tights and a blazer will be just perfect.

Madison large wristlet- day to night bag!
I was given a large discount at Coach for my birthday in January and purchased this wristlet for myself. I have a few upcoming events and outings in the next months (maybe some hot dates?! one can dare to hope. haha;)) and this bag seemed like the perfect option for carrying my wallet and other essentials without carrying my large purse everywhere.

Think warm thoughts, friends.

My Hips Don't Lie;)

2012-01-17T18:36:00.000-05:00

If you noticed in the last post, I made a comment about not waiting for something or someone to change my life for me. It is a powerful notion to know that I create my life and all the happiness in it:) Seriously, life is what you make it. I choose to make it awesomely wonderful every moment that I possibly can.

So, I did something I have always wanted to do. I signed up for belly dancing classes!! And yes, I cannot stop singing Shakira, "Hips Don't Lie." Haha. The classes start in just two weeks. It is going to be so much fun to learn a new form of dance and get a workout. Yay! Also, I will have a performance at the end of the 6 week class. I don't think I am going to invite anybody to see me perform but I am excited to have a performance. I hope I get to wear a jingly purple scarf with coins around my hips! Yipeeee! So excited.

I will keep you all posted on how it goes. In the meantime, I will Zumba my little heart out in my living room tomorrow morning. Maybe I can wear a jingly scarf for Zumba in my living room? Heck, why not! Any excuse to buy the scarf is good enough for me:)

Be happy, friends.

Spicy Pop Pulled Meat

2012-01-17T07:00:00.000-05:00

On Saturday, I was feeling like I needed something hot to warm me on a frigid day. I watched "The Pioneer Woman" (PS- she has a cool blog too) on the Cooking Channel earlier in the morning while getting ready for the day and felt inspired to try her recipe. Spicy Pop Pulled Meat
Any recipe that calls for a can of Dr. Pepper is good in my book:) She uses pork but you can easily use beef. It is wonderful, economical for feeding a large group (this yields 18 servings for about $20), and extremely delicious. If you like a little heat then this is the recipe for you. If you don't like much heat, then you might want to substitute the chipotle peppers in adobo sauce with some other milder peppers.

Honestly, my soul was feeling a little tired and cooking this recipe restored me. Sometimes cooking takes me away to a place where I feel accomplished and nurturing. It is just one way that I try to show love for my own body (did I mention I have a massage scheduled for myself in a about two weeks?! haha) and for others. Every time I cook a meal like this, I think to myself, "One day I will feed my love and a whole family with this recipe." Holding onto that hope feels wonderful. I hate sounding like I live my life in waiting for something or someone better; it isn't true. I hope you hear from me that I live my life fully and happily (I dance and laugh at home, read good books, write a lecture, watch my favorite movies, meet friends for coffee, talk to friends and family on the phone, write letters- and that was just my Saturday!), but I always imagine that there is more room for love. I am ready to add that to my life.

But back to my cooking, this is what my meal looked like on my tiny stove:

Enough to feed an army!

Look at that tasty moist slowly cooked (for 6 hours) meat!

This is the saucy goodness. Yum.

I prepared some homemade coleslaw and toasted a warm bun. It was absolutely delicious and hit the spot. I certainly have an overflow of leftovers since I made enough for 18 people so lots of it will be frozen in individual freezer bags for future meal.

Eat well, friends.

My Work

2012-01-16T16:08:00.001-05:00

Today I came into the office (I know, it is MLK Jr. Day and a holiday but I have technically been on "vacation" since Dec.16 and don't have to be back until the new semester starts). Before you raise your eyebrows and wish you were an academic, rest assured that NO ONE I know has taken a vacation for the full amount of time. In fact, I have been back working steadily since Jan. 6 and most professors (even the senior ones) do the same. We use these breaks from teaching to conduct our research, write papers, and prepare for the upcoming semester. I came in today and finalized my lectures for the first day of the spring semester (Jan.26). I am teaching two courses this semester: Political Economy of Development and Underdevelopment and Intro to Comparative Politics. Both are new courses for me. This means I had to start from scratch selecting readings, reading those readings (haha), writing notes, preparing lectures, writing discussion questions, and making exams/quizzes.

I am co-teaching the course on Introduction to Comparative Politics with two senior faculty in my department. This is both exciting (they have been teaching successfully for decades and I can learn from them) and it is daunting (I am also being evaluated when I teach in front of them). It will be my task to cover the country of Iran (the other two countries are Britain and Brazil). We all use the same textbook but each can select extra readings for the class to gain greater knowledge of the country.

I won't teach my section on Iran until April but on January 26, I will have 15 minutes to introduce Iran and four themes that we will use to make sense of it (the 4 themes provide the thread that link our country comparisons since these themes are explored in each country). I use a free tool called Prezi instead of Powerpoint when I give presentations. I usually lecture without anything but a chalk board but in larger classes Prezi can be fun. It is easier to flow dynamically during a talk, link Youtube videos, and images etc. You can play with the background colors really easily. It took me about a day to get used the new format but once you learn, it is so much fun! You will want to Prezify everything.

Check out my short Prezi:

Intro to Iran Prezi

So that is just the visual skeleton of the talk.
What will I say during it?
Well, I write lecture notes that are pretty conversational and I read before class but rarely look at during a lecture (they are basically my crutch).

Here are my lecture notes for the first day (15 minutes):

Introduction to Me:

My research focuses on political economy and gender politicsin the Middle East. My courses reflect my research interests: Politics of theMiddle East; Islam Gender and Politics; Political Economy of Development andUnderdevelopment; Arab-Israeli conflict.

In this class I will focus on IRAN!

Connector:

Iran has been in the news a lot lately but often what wehear in the news presents a very different image of Iran. Modern Iran has occupied a strange politicalspace. Conventional imagery of it as auni-dimensional evil/terrorist place often contrasts with the complex reality thatexists there. These images might justgive us a brief taste of what a diverse place Tehran is.

http://www.theatlantic.com/infocus/2012/01/a-view-inside-iran/100219/

(Link to this during talk).

At title heading start here:

Even the stats at the beginning of KKJ book seem to present Iranas a down in the dumps place compared to other political states:

- Medium on the HDI (meaning moderate development on lifeexpectancy, education, and standard of living, large gender gap in terms ofeconomic, social and political rankings (#118, FYI the US is #31); Pretty moderatein terms of EPI standards (ability at meeting environmental standards), andviewed as corrupt for business (131- China is 72 and US is 20); Iran is viewedas very undemocratic according to Freedom House with a rating of 6 (1-7 with 7 being the least democratic or free), barelyabove China (6.5)

In this class, we will contextualize and compare Iran to theother states (Brazil and GB) we examine in the course. However, we will also dig deeper into 4 themes to make sense of Irantoday.

Go into each slide and the brief bullets.

I have all this stuff in my noggin’.

That is what I do.

In order to come up with that little ditty and have the info in my noggin needed to talk about the four themes I read a book on Iran, about 100 pages in a text book, and lots of little articles.

But I love what I do.

Cheers, friends.

Not So Minimalist Skin Care Update

2012-01-16T07:00:00.000-05:00

Since moving to Wellesley in the last 6 months, I have revised my skin care system drastically. This is a reflection of the new environment and my new skincare needs. I now wear a light foundation, slight blush, and mascara most days that I go into the office. I need a different kind of wash and moisturizer to make this work.

I am going to admit that though I still use my olive soap in the shower for body needs, I have moved away from copious Argan oil use and started using a different skin wash and better hydrating lotion that incorporates higher SPF protection. In an effort to maintain honesty about my skin care products, this is my new routine:

My skin washing tool: Precision Pore Cleansing Pad
This little nubby soft pad is absolutely amazing. It is so soft on my face, gently exfoliates, and dries quickly (unlike a washcloth) for use in the morning and at night. It is seriously the best five dollars on a beauty product I have ever spent.

My face cleanser: I have the most sensitive skin and fickle in the world. Sometimes the olive soap is even too drying for me. Sigh. I was so pleasantly surprised when I stumbled across this French product on Amazon: Bioderma Sensibio H2O
I can easily swipe on the product and it completely removes my foundation and eye make up and cleanses my skin without drying me out or irritating my contacts. Amazing. I order it on Amazon and it is a bit cheaper than other websites because of free shipping (Amazon prime) and no tax. I highly recommend.

Acne protection and dark spot remover: Philosophy "On a Clear Day" Retinol Clarifying lotion
This product is perfect for night time use and tends to clear up acne spots and help clear up old scars/dark spots. I only use it once a day because it gets to be too drying for me if I use it twice a day.

Moisturizer and sunblock: Olay Daily UV protection for Sensitive Skin
I kept stealing my Mom's bottle over the holidays and she finally gifted me my own bottle for my 30th birthday, haha, to battle those wrinkles! hehe. Anyways, it is non-greasy and non-irritating. It is a great primer for foundation.

I am not too thrilled with my current foundation and am looking to switch soon...I will post if I come up with anything fabulous.

Wear your sunblock, friends.

Ear Worm

2012-01-15T07:00:00.000-05:00

I saw this video in October on VH1 one morning when getting ready for work (what?! Don't most 30 year olds listen to Jump Start instead of the news?!:)) I love the lyrics and the video. Her red dress and the white dress at the end of video are so ethereal and beautiful. I love it.

Shake It Out

There is a line in this song (she says, "it is always darkest before the dawn") that reminds me of that famous Persian proverb that has stayed close to my heart, "When it is dark enough, you can see the stars."

Shake it out, friends.

chamber

2012-01-14T07:00:00.000-05:00

they say
it opens
a new
chamber
in your heart.

it fills with love
you never knew
possible.

it is so.

nsh 1/12/12

swift stillness

2012-01-13T23:00:00.001-05:00

at lake's edge
there are two states

solid and liquid
quiet and motion
crystalline and murky

a swift stillness.

nsh, 1/13/12

Happy Birthday Christi!

2012-01-13T11:27:00.000-05:00

Christi is one of my oldest and dearest friends. I am so thankful we live nearby to one another again. She has the most lovely husband and little pup named Iggy. I am wishing her the happiest of birthdays on January 14. As someone 10 days wiser than Christi, I can report with full faith and honesty that being 30 is pretty amazing! No new grey hairs or wrinkles to report:)

Love you Christi!

Red string!

xoxo.

Warm hands

2012-01-12T11:10:00.005-05:00

How do you know someone loves you? They give you hand warmers in the winter so that your precious mitts stay warm in the freezing Boston temps. Today it is snowing, freezing rain, sleeting, and raining in Wellesley. It is also overcast and grey. I was so thankful for a gift I received at Christmas.

My Mom gifted me several hand warmers, like these hand warmers. Seriously, they make all the difference in my gloves when I walk to work. They really do stay warm for the whole work day (including the walk home) and sometimes I stuff them in my pockets so that I can squeeze them and warm my hands while at my desk. They are really a great gift for someone living in cold areas.

Stay warm, friends.

Meatloaf and a German Pretzel...What?!

2012-01-11T11:36:00.001-05:00

I have the best G-chat conversations with my friends. Some are so funny, I save them and reread them.
You should read this conversation I shared with Emily recently. There have been absolutely no edits- this is how we chat:)

Me: on a differentnote

you should have mashed potatoes

with your meatloaf

i like english peas with it too

just saying

you can be assertive and say no to the mashed potatoes

i am okay with it:)

i still love you

Emily: we are :)

they just go together!

Me: oh whew

it would be unamerican to do otherwise

i would report you

to some food secuirty place

if you didnt do potatoes

with it

potatos

potatoes

with an e?

i dunno

Emily: hahaha

potatoes

Nadya: oh good

i got it right

Emily: i want to eat itnow

Nadya: i want a softpretzel

with grainy mustard

in germany

with a beer

and a guy named hans

too bad

it is not happening

Keep smiling, friends.

Check it

2012-01-10T14:19:00.003-05:00

Thank you, Emily!
You are so totally my best friend for this and also, because you have blond hair and blue eyes;) haha. (Sorry, that was an inside joke and everyone but the two of us is on the outside....so obnoxious. I will stop.)

See Emily and I have been obsessed with this song since we saw The Talented Mr. Ripley in the movie theater together back in high school. It will get stuck in my head for a week and go away then two years later- it is baaack! Now I love this song even more because of the neat hand dancing.

Check it:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=iANRO3I30nM#!

Enjoy, friends.

Wintery Waban

2012-01-10T09:58:00.001-05:00

"Live a balanced life- learn some and think some and draw and paint and sing and
dance and play and work everyday some." - Robert Fulghum

Wintery Lake Waban on my walk to work today!

Cooking

2012-01-09T12:44:00.000-05:00

So, I don't really talk much about food on this blog. Mostly, I never take pictures when I am cooking and I just never think to talk about it. But I love to cook. There was a time in my life when I found it tedious. In the last few years, I have fallen in love with cooking. I love the hunt of finding a good recipe, the writing of a grocery list (gosh, I love to make a list and check things off), picking out the ingredients, prepping them, adding them and smelling the deliciousness come together, and finally enjoying a long meal. Even if I am not sharing the meal with another person, I set my table fully and enjoy the meal properly- though I will sometimes sneak a good book to the table. I love cooking soups, stews, casseroles, roasting chickens, and preparing simple but tasty foods. I rarely make meals that require fancy tools or lots of technique. Over the years, I have gotten increasingly better at picking out recipes that play to my strengths and my taste.

This weekend I made a white bean chicken chili recipe, a taco soup, and a cheese grits casserole. My sister in -law's (Allison, my brother's wife) Mom, Mrs. Robinson, shared these recipes with me in Hilton Head over the holidays. They are extremely easy one pot meals, economical, and delicious. The first two recipes are make ahead meals that can be frozen in smaller quantities (this is especially great when you live alone and want tasty homemade meals on busy days). The cheese grits casserole is the most amazing experience ever- it is not for those watching their waistlines but it is for the person that wants the most delicious cheesy, buttery, creamy morning treat! I had some this morning with a cup of single origin Guatemalan coffee. Yum.

Here are the recipes! Try them y'all, they do not disappoint.

White Bean Chicken Chili

1 T. Olive Oil

1 medium onion, chopped

3 cloves of garlic, chopped

1 rotisserie chicken breast (approximately 2 cups chopped)

3 can Great Northern beans, drained and rinsed

1 jar medium salsa (16 oz).

1 T. cumin

3 cans (14 oz) low sodium chicken broth

8 oz. (1 pkg) shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Saute onion and garlic in olive oil. Add ingredients (exceptfor cheese) and heat thoroughly. Then add cheese (the whole bag, do it! trust me.) and simmer until melted. Give it a few good stirs to make sure the cheese isn't lumped and fully spread throughout the chili. Great with corn bread and sour cream.

Serves 6 (generously).

Taco Soup

1-2lb, lean ground beef or turkey

1 medium onion chopped

1 large can of tomato sauce

1 large can of diced tomatoes

1 can of black beans (drained and rinsed)

1 can of kidney beans (drained and rinsed)

1 can of shoe peg corn (drained and rinsed)

1 can of cream corn (don't drain or rinse:))

1 envelope of taco seasoning mix

1 envelope of regular ranch dressing seasoning mix

Shredded cheese for topping.

Get a big pot. Brown meat in it (drain off excess liquid and fat). Add onion to browned meat and cook until clear. Add other items and cook for 30 minutes. Top bowls with shredded cheese. Yields 8-12 generous servings.

Cheese Grits Casserole

1/2 c. grits into 3 cups of boiling water.

Cook until real stuff (in a large 2 qt pot).

Add 1/2lb. of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 3/4 stick oleo (What is Oleo? Oh my, just get your butter/margarine out- I go with real butter), 1 tsp. salt, dash of pepper (I do many dashes), 1 tsp. Lawry's seasoned slat, dash of Worchestershire sauce.

In a large 1 1/2 quart baking dish beat 2 eggs.

This is the tricky part- really really slowly add the hot grits mixture to the eggs- Slowly and stir constantly! I add a table spoon at a time and constantly stir. If you add the hot grits to the raw eggs too quick you will cook the eggs (yuck) and the dish is ruined (I did that 4 years ago and cried my eyes out because all that cheesy grit goodness was lost) . It takes about 5 minutes of slowly adding the grits to the eggs in the baking dish. Say a prayer or talk to a friend, just don't rush it.

Bake the dish in the oven for 30-45 minutes at 350 degrees.

Eat well, friends.

Faith for the Waiting in Between

2012-01-07T14:23:00.004-05:00

Last night I read some lovely passages that spoke to my heart. Let me share.

First, I came across a Bernie Glassman statement. He says:
"The abiding place, this state of being, of not knowing, is a very difficult place to be. It is the place where we don't know what's right, what's wrong, what's real, what's not real. It's the place of just being, of life itself. [The place of] no separation between subject and object, no space between I and Thou, you and me, up and down, right and wrong. I call such practice, bearing witness."

Second, I read a passage in the Quran. It says, "Yet it may happen that you will hate a thing which is better for you; and it may happen that you love a thing which is worse for you; God knows and you know not."

Finally, I was reading a friend's blog and her new year wishes for 2012. She said the following, "May we see miracles in 2012. And the kind of faith that pulls us through the waiting in between."

All of these are fantastic sentiments. I am in a place of bearing witness and not knowing. The future is unknown to me and there are so many things I want to know. Who will be my husband one day? What will our children be like? Will my work at Wellesley sustain my goals for tenure? When will it all happen? How does it happen? I say lots of prayers in my head everyday and I give my best in all that I do in the hopes that I am following a path, though unclear, that will lead to those miracles I hope for in my heart of hearts. Certainly, I hold onto my faith while I wait for those miracles.

May the longtime sun shine upon you, friends.

Sunset

2012-01-06T19:27:00.001-05:00

I received the best welcome home present today: a sunset.
Seriously, my photos do not even begin to capture the beauty of it.
I lingered outside and watched the sun dip below the horizon.
I was in awe.
Thank you.
Thank you.
Thank you, Universe.

Settling In

2012-01-06T16:26:00.001-05:00

Hi.

I am settling back into my home. This morning I arrived back home in Wellesley and while I still had some adrenaline in me, completed grocery shopping, unpacked everything, put all my stuff away, packed away my Christmas decor (my corner is so sad without a tree:(), dusted, displayed some fresh white flowers to welcome the new year, and made white bean and chicken chili to warm me up and make my house feel cozy. I am super worn out now. I plan on eating a bowl of chili, reading a chapter for a lecture I am writing, and then slumbering in my lovely bed for a full 8 hours. I have so many things to do and I am excited to get started, but I need some rest first.

I am happy and all is well.

Be well, friends.

Happy Birthday!

2012-01-04T22:13:00.002-05:00

my first decade

fun and innocence

my second decade

growth, heartache, change

my third decade

hope, love, abundance

all three are filled with joy

nsh, 1/4/12

Come see what I did to celebrate my thirtieth year!

A drive into DC!

Hello Washington Monument...I am too busy turning 30 to stop and tour you!

Jersey Boys!

This is going to be fun!

Yay! Bundled up and holding my Mom's coffee to warm my mitts.

Birthday dinner at Peking Gourmet Inn

Am I ready for 30?!

Roomies! Nadya and Corinna. Dabney Room 205- best room at UVA ever!

Liam, Emily, and Nadya

Mom and Nadya (notice my new Italian gold necklace with 3 rings to celebrate 3 decades)!

I felt so loved today. Lots of wonderful phone calls, face book messages, emails, serenades from Mrs. Taylor and my nephew Gabe, and the waiters at a Chinese restaurant. There was even the most beautiful sunset today. Thank you God and the Universe for that. I noticed it.

Life is so sweet.

Thank you, friends and family, for making life sweeter today.

xoxo,

Nadya

My Favorite Blogs

2012-01-03T15:58:00.000-05:00

These are my favorite blogs. They make me happy. I love to read them. Each of these women is unique and different from me but I love to hear their voices.

Posie Gets Cozy

Miss Minimalist

Curious Bird

Nie Nie Dialogues

All of these women exist in my life (albeit in my digital life) to remind me of all the good things in this world and to serve as models for what I want to attract to my life.

Thank you, ladies.

New Year's Wish continued

2012-01-02T19:54:00.002-05:00

Well, it is the start of the new year and along with that comes new resolutions. While I think resolutions are great, I generally prefer to have a wish for the new year and to do all that I can to make that wish come true. It seems like less pressure and more fun when I think of it as a wish.

Well, this year my wish was to be loving and to show gratitude to everyone and everything, including myself- to notice all the good and to create more good. So what am I doing about it?

Well, some projects are already in the works. First, I have been busy writing letters and cards (I have had a rotten sinus infection that has kept me in bed the last few days so I have loads of time) to friends that I want to cheer up or show my appreciation to. That is one small way to show people I am thankful for them and that I love them. Also, I am lining up a new volunteer gig for myself. I watched the movie, Fried Green Tomatoes, with my Mom today and I was inspired to get busy volunteering. I sent out some emails so once things are firmed up I will share more.

Alright, I need to go blow my nose and hit the hay early tonight. I have two days left to get better so that I can celebrate my birthday in style!

Take care, friends.

And One More Thing

2012-01-01T15:58:00.002-05:00

Are you part of the Brave Girls Club?
I am.
Their daily messages and blog posts are completely inspiring.

Check it:
http://bravegirlsclub.com/dailytruths/dec3011.htm

You are loved, friends.

Fun things

2012-01-01T10:49:00.001-05:00

I enjoyed seeing the Diane Von Furstenberg video on traveling lightly.

Traveling lightly:
Travel and DVF

Georgia has been on my mind lately. I need to visit Atlanta again.
Ear worm:
Ray Charles and Georgia on My Mind

Be well, friends.

Wishes for 2012

2011-12-30T21:54:00.001-05:00

Some years slip by without much thought, like the changing of tides, but 2011 was surely one of dramatic tsunami sized waves of change for me. It was my sincere intention to handle it with resilience and grace. I think I did pretty well. I am smarter, braver, stronger, more confident, and have more faith and hope than ever before.

What is my wish for 2012? To live a life filled with love and gratitude toward everyone and everything, including myself. Even when things seem bad or complaint worthy, I want to resist that temptation to be negative. Instead, I focus on the positive. A few days ago I woke up to a gray and misty morning at the lake lamenting that the sun was in hiding but I stayed in bed peering out at the mountains for long enough to realize that there was a quiet silvery beauty to the vista. I snapped the photo above and it serves as my touchstone to see the silver lining in every moment life has to offer. Sometimes you don't even have to look that hard.

2012 will be filled with much love and joy. I believe it.

Happy new year, friends.

Okatie and Oysters

2011-12-27T20:55:00.000-05:00

Yesterday afternoon we made our way to Okatie for an oyster roast. It is one of the most serene and gorgeous places on earth. It is the kind of place where I imagine one could write a great American novel uninterrupted. The hundreds of years old oak trees, the spanish moss dripping gothically from their limbs, the oyster beds at low tide, and the coastal waterways are something one can only see in South Carolina.

Come along and see:

The trees are so big I couldn't figure out how to capture them in a photo!

Wow.

Walkway

Those are oyster beds (to the right) that are visible during low tide.

The beautiful coastal marsh land.

House at Okatie

The family.

Yum.

Beautiful (and yummy) fresh oysters.

Yes, sir.

Fire pit!

Lil' ole me.

Things are getting hot.

Roasting the oysters

Ready to eat!

I am headed back to the lake tomorrow for a few days of rest before zipping off to DC, visiting friends, and celebrating my 30th birthday! Yippee:)

Christmas 2011

2011-12-25T22:18:00.002-05:00

A long and happy Christmas day began bright and early this morning. I had a slumber party last night with my nephew, Gabriel. At 6:30am he looked across his twin bed to mine and said, "Aunt Nadya, did we have a slumber party?" I replied that we had a slumber party and asked him what day it was. He whispered in his tiny voice, "Christmas!"

Early morning bed jumping before heading to see Santa's goodies!

Hello Lego marina

Good morning Mom

What a tree! Look at all those presents.

Gabe opening a present from Aunt Nadya (it was Legos)

Some of my loot, Kiehl's hand lotion and a photo of Gabe at Okatie Island

Portable blue tooth keyboard for my iPad! Thanks Rami and Ramsey:)

Coach wristlet! Thanks Allison:)

A new game to play.

Brunch spread

Good morning me!

Pretty birds

Pre- Christmas dinner photo

Look at my cute boots and corduroy dress

Allison in the kitchen

Mrs. Robinson

Turkey!

Cheery poinsetta

Enjoying some appetizers and wine

Mr. Robinson carving the turkey

Christmas Dinner spread

Gabriel, Rami, Nadya, Ramsey

Ditto + Mom

It was a great day! I am looking forward to a bit of shopping and heading to Okatie Island in the afternoon for an oyster roast and skeet shooting (I am usually a spectator at that event). Snap (my camera) will surely be at my side to capture my day of fun!

Goodnight, friends.

Family Love

2011-12-24T20:56:00.001-05:00

My family is full of quirks and our own unique way of showing love. This includes of beans and farts humor (I have two older brothers), lots of snipping at each other and rolling eyes, but hugs and kisses and tender moments too.

Loving my new cowboy boots! Yippee:)

Brotherly (and nephew) love...watching Shrek!

Love your family, friends.

A Bright and Merry Day!

2011-12-24T19:27:00.000-05:00

What an amazing day I had today in Hilton Head, SC!

Come along with me and see:

Santa Mugs!

Hello, me!

Harbor Town Lighthouse!

Gorgeous Palmetto State view- palms and coastline.

Atlanta ocean

Squinting in the sun!

Gabriel making his gingerbread house.

Gingerbread house #2

Snicker roof, yes please!

Gabe constructing his roof, evidence of candy cane snack remains.

Majestic Spanish moss.

Love that Spanish moss on a magnolia tree. So Southern.

What a view!

Christmas Caravan

Lego construction

Camels at the live Nativity!

Hello, little one!

What a day! Yay! Excited to enjoy Christmas with my family tomorrow morning:) I expect my four year old nephew to give me an early morning wake up call!

I hope you have a peaceful night.

Merry Christmas, friends.

Georgetown Cupcakes!

2011-12-24T10:04:00.000-05:00

On Tuesday, my Mom and I went into Georgetown for the day to walk around, do some shopping, eat a delicious lunch, and sample some cupcakes at Georgetown Cupcakes!

Come along with me:

Neat passage in Georgetown

Georgetown

Georgetown cupcake

Mom and Georgetown Cupcake bag

Box of goodies

Yum!

Red velvet perfection

This is going to be good!

Happy holidays, friends!

Musings

2011-12-23T23:55:00.001-05:00

Hi.

I finally arrived in Hilton Head, SC today after a few days of much needed recuperation at my family lake house. I did get car sick once (it happens every time I go on long car trips and I did burst a few blood vessels near my eye ball from the pressure of getting sick- blah) but we arrived on the island to sunny skies and 75 degree temperatures. I was looking ghastly pale and dark in my black leggings, black boots, and dark cardigan. For the past two days I kind of moped around my house and yesterday night I had a definitive turn around in my mood. The sunshine and warm temperatures further assisted my mood lift.

I was sad because my original plans to go to Ireland at the start of the new year had been dashed. Don't worry I still have my fairy dust necklace filled with hopes and wishes that I can sprinkle- it just won't be in Ireland. Nevertheless, I think I will be able to ring in my 30th year and 2012 in a celebratory fashion, though different than I had originally intended. In place of Ireland, I will extend my time at home with my family and spend sometime doing work for the spring semester from the comfort of my family home. I can work on my papers and prepare lectures from anywhere and being at home with my family seems like the best place to be!

Last night, as I lounged in my pajamas under a big comforter watching the Thin Man (an awesome old mystery movie series from the 1930s that you should really watch if you haven't already) with my Mom; we dreamed up new dreams for me. I felt a sense of renewal. My own thoughts and feelings really do create the world around me. What might seem bad or sad just requires a change of perspective. I definitely choose to be happy, to complain less, to be hopeful, and to be an active agent in the future I desire.

In the pursuit of that future I have also not lost sight of this moment. At this very moment, I am resting under a beautiful blue quilt in a charming room on an island off the coast of South Carolina with my family sleeping in rooms nearby. My green blanket envelops my shoulders, my hair is wild and tousled and is tickling my back and shoulders, some music by Mindy Gledhill is playing in the background, my glasses are red and make me happy, my pjs are soft, my pink fuzzy socks are keeping my feet warm, and I feel safe and content. I do recognize the wonderfulness of life right now for me: I am healthy, my family is doing well, I have a job I love, I have the best friends in the world, I love them all dearly, and the world is full of possibilities waiting for me to explore. I am so thankful for this very moment.

Enjoy this moment, friends.

Echo

2011-12-22T13:01:00.001-05:00

At first

There was
ambiguity
of the
heart murmurs
I sent out-
fear,
sadness,
distrust
love
?

But recent events
reveal
that my heart
echo
returned
one
clear
message:
Love.

nsh, 12/21/11

On Hope

2011-12-20T21:17:00.001-05:00

Brave Girls Club

My favorite take away message:

"Hold onto hope, give it a chance to work, you will make it."

Indeed, there is always room for hope no matter the situation we face in life. It is our job to make room for it and to let it do its job.

I am a big fan of the book called the Secret. Some people think it is hogwash. I think it has a powerful message. I have reread it several times and I am continuing to learn how to craft the life I desire. Today, I was reminded that you must make room for hope- for the future you deeply desire or else you can never expect it to happen. Sometimes it is painful, sometimes you wish it were easier, that happily ever afters were easy to come by. Well, they are not easy to come by but they surely exist. I believe.

I am planning on keeping my vial of fairy dust close by in the coming weeks.

Sending out lots of love, my dear friends.

Stylin'

2011-12-18T20:26:00.001-05:00

I am just weeks away from turning 30! Like, whoa.

I know?! How?

Well, it all started back on January 4, 1982 in a small hospital in the desert of Kuwait. After coming into this world, I traveled it, moved around a bit, got a BA, earned an MA, broke my back getting the PhD, made the best of friends along the way, worked interesting jobs like nanny, house painter, coffee shop girl, fell in love once and had my heart broken, picked up the pieces and pasted them back together, got my dream job at Wellesley, and started anew. Things are actually pretty wonderful!

Whew. Admittedly, I have done a lot of living in my thirty years and I am proud of making it to 30. I have learned a lot and I am looking forward to my first year in a new decade of life! It has only been in the last year that I have really gained significant confidence in myself and in my own sense of style. Check out this little video:

Advanced Style

It is just lovely. My favorite line (paraphrased): "Young women, you are going to become old one day, just don't worry about it."

Be well, friends.

Fun with Mom

2011-12-18T19:50:00.000-05:00

I arrived home last night. Mom had a delicious Southern meal prepared: fried chicken, lima beans, coleslaw, and fried okra! All of it was homemade and so yummy. I stayed up late talking to Mom and this morning once we finally got going we decided to head to Purcellville, Virginia.

We had lunch at Magnolia's Mill and then shopped around the little town. I found some warm winter socks to wear with my boots and got a new little stuffed friend named Moxy. Mom picked up some nice stocking stuffers. We had a lovely afternoon.

Sitting outside of Twigs, a little shop.

Nadya

Mom

Be well, friends.

Fried Okra

2011-12-16T19:33:00.003-05:00

Fried okra
Harkens of home.

My Mama
loves me.

She
fries me
that
Fine
Southern delicacy
after days,
weeks,
and months
of being away.

One bite
into
that
seasoned
salty
crispy
crust
and the
slight
squish
of the green
seedpod

Reminds me
that home
is always
where
the
fried okra
is.

nsh 12/16/11

Headed home tomorrow, friends. Be well.

Holiday Hair and Cocktail Party

2011-12-16T14:15:00.003-05:00

Hi!

I am madly grading final exams in the hopes that I don't have to lug them from Wellesley to Washington DC for the holidays...we shall see if I can rally the strength to finish. It is exhausting. I can complete at about 5 at a time then I require a 15 minute recovery period. Yesterday evening, I attended a work cocktail party and it was a fun time to catch up with colleagues after a busy semester. Check out my new hair cut and my new cocktail dress! I got the dress on super sale at BCBG and I paired it with black tights, black pumps, and a black blazer for the party. In the summer, I can forgo the tights and blazer and wear strappy sandals to make it work during the warmer months.

Happy holidays, friends!

Fun in the City!

2011-12-14T20:21:00.005-05:00

I did so many fun things today. After riding the 9:30am rail into South Station, I went into the city with a friend and visited the Science Museum, saw the Pompeii exhibit there, got a back stage pass to the planetarium, had Algerian food for lunch, and then returned to the MFA to see the Degas exhibit again and to see The Clock exhibit! I treated myself to a grilled cheese from the The Cheese Boy at South Station and made it back home by 7pm. In my pics you can see that I am still wearing that fairy dust necklace;) I still love it. I am pretty tuckered out but it was lovely to spend the day in the city one more time before heading home for the holidays on Saturday. Tomorrow, I will grade papers, meet with a student, get my hair cut (pictures to follow), and attend a holiday cocktail party (in a new dress) at Wellesley.

View from the Science Museum

Another vista from the Science Museum

Planetarium action

Coffee break at the MFA

Another smile!

Neat modern art exhibit

Take 2

Modern wing of the MFA

Sweet dreams, friends.

Fairy Dust

2011-12-13T14:52:00.002-05:00

On Sunday, after brunch, I stopped to shop at the Fairy Shop on Newbury Street. It is this enchanting little store with all kinds of little treasures. A little girl's, or any age (!), dream! I have lots of wishes on my mind these days so I treated myself, quite naturally, to a fairy dust necklace. I have been wearing it the last few days. It is awesome.

See it:
Fairy Dust Necklace

Best wishes, friends.

My Favorite Luggage Company

2011-12-12T15:17:00.000-05:00

I just purchased my first Red Oxx bag. Yay! I will update with photos soon.

I have wanted a Red Oxx bag for a long time but they are pricy so it was on my lust list for several years. Finally, I made a plan to save up for the bag and for the last few months I have squirreled away a bit of money to pay for it. The bags are handmade in Montana and have a "no bull" lifetime guarantee. In the upcoming year I have lots of travel plans for vacation and research (within the US, to Europe, and to the Middle East). For the last few years, I have been a carry-on only traveler. It is not just about saving money on checked baggage fees but also about the independence and convenience it affords me when I do travel. This bag is the perfect addition to my luggage collection so that I can travel without checking!

Check out Red Oxx:
http://www.redoxx.com/

Bon voyage, friends.

Weekend Plans

2011-12-09T13:16:00.001-05:00

This is my last weekend in Wellesley/Boston until January so I hope to make the most of it.
What are my weekend plans?
Friday night Mexican dinner:
Yummy vegetarian tortilla soup (Mark Bittman's recipe)- Buy his book, How to Cook Evrything Vegetarian. You won't be disappointed. For the recipe, I use canned tomatoes with no salt added instead of fresh tomatoes because it is more affordable and simpler to manage.
Taco bar- yay!

Saturday:
Sleep in
Lunch- maybe a Lebanese place in Norwood
Evening- relaxing and reading

Sunday:
Brunch in Boston with Christi and Tim on Newbury St.
MFA and/or holiday shopping
Twilight: Breaking Dawn Part 1 (I read all the books, I liked them, they are cheesy, let me watch my teen vampire romance movie in peace...thankyouverymuch.)
Late train back to Wellesley

Yay! What an exciting fun weekend ahead!

Have a good one, friends.

Ear Worm

2011-12-08T08:31:00.001-05:00

Some Bob Marley and the Wailers! An oldie but goodie:)

Three Little Birds

Don't worry, friends. Every little thing is going to be alright!

Hominy

2011-12-07T13:33:00.001-05:00

Warm and creamy
bowl of grits.

Dollop of butter.
Dash of salt.
Pinch of pepper.
Sprinkle of cheese.

It is yum, y'all.

Bless their hearts, those Northerners.
Missing out on a Southern treat.

- nsh, 12/6/11

Home

2011-12-06T15:31:00.001-05:00

Soul,
the gate agent,
Announces it is time.

Brain,
the passenger,
Recognizes a decision
has been made.

I board.

High altitude.

Arriving at long last,
with much turbulence,
at the longitude
and the latitude,

Where my heart
Feels at home
- with you.

nsh

May Your Days Be Merry and Bright

2011-12-05T19:30:00.001-05:00

I hosted a holiday party for the first time this year. It was a great opportunity to share some good spirits and cheese with my new friends from work. I was also able to showcase my pretty holiday decor- a trimmed tree, mistletoe, and garland. I wore a wine colored dress with a pretty beaded headband. I felt a bit vintage with my head piece but it made me happy so I went ahead and kept it on.

Come along with me and see:

Xmas Tree 2011

Gravmas Tree 2011

Hello little red bird!

Peace dove.

Crane love.

Earnest the holiday owl.

Earnest's backside.

Fresh mistletoe.

Another bunch of mistletoe at my front door. Who doesn't like to kiss?

Ready for the party!

Cheers!

May your days be merry and bright.
Peace, friends.

Writing Your Own Story

2011-12-05T09:29:00.001-05:00

I spend a lot of time thinking about power. After all, political science is the study of who has power, how they got it, why they got it, and the ways they try to keep it. I teach a class on islam, Gender, and Politics and much of my research continues to focus on the role of women as active agents of political economic change. As soon as this dissertation becomes a book (gah!) then I am ready to start a new exciting topic that focuses more exclusively on women. For better or worse, I often view relationships in terms of power dynamics and have spent a lot of time reflecting on the way power is balanced between women and men during romantic, professional, and platonic interactions.

This statement by Alice Walker is profound:
"The most common way people give up their power is by thinking that they don't have any."

I often fall into this trap which boggles my mind because I am a well educated, financially independent, attractive woman that should own her power and use it (for good). Yet, I often feel powerless. I am not blaming the media or society, alone, but certainly a culture of powerlessness is perpetuated, if not encouraged.

Check this out:
Miss Representation

This movie looks intriguing. I look forward to watching it.
What are your thoughts?

Write your own stories, ladies.

2011-12-05T09:10:00.001-05:00

My dear friend, Donica, visited me this past week and it was a lovely treat to have her here.
I have been MIA in blog land because we were busy doing things: dinners out, lots of girl talk, shopping, a holiday party, and even a visit to the Museum of Fine Arts (MFA).

I love the MFA. We saw the new "Degas and the Nude" exhibit and a colorful exhibit on Aphrodite.
After touring we enjoyed a cappuccino in the main atrium cafe. Check it:

I plan on uploading Holiday Party pics and my apartment's holiday decor soon!

Happy holidays, friends!

Why I love me:

2011-11-30T11:41:00.001-05:00

I am funny.

I am thoughtful.

I write real handwritten letters.

I love stationary.

I am smart.

I am good at my career.

I like animals.

I like humans.

I love purple.

I have pretty and wavy long dark hair (that has never been dyed) that feels soft.

I wear contacts.

I wear glasses sometimes, too.

I have strong long legs.

I have a flat tummy that makes funny noises after I eat. Gurgle.

I sing really well, in the shower! See, I am funny.

I know all the lyrics to songs in the shower, I am really funny.

I am really organized and very efficient.

I can be very disciplined but not at the expense of my loved ones.

I am honest.

I am loyal.

I cry in movies all the time.

When I cry my eyes turn bright green- the only upside to my tears.

I am a good traveler.

I have a lot of love in my heart.

I am passionate.

I can touch my toes.

I am resilient.

I am emotional, not a robot.

I like luggage and that is cool.

I travel carry-on only.

I have good taste, at least I think so!

I like to wear dresses.

I own lots of pretty dresses.

I try my best.

I believe the universe is magnificent.

I love to make lists. I have all kinds of lists- things I love about me, things I want to do, places I want to visit, people I want to meet, Christmas lists, etc. Name it, I probably have a list for it.

Do you ever make lists like this? I started this one last year to remind me that I love myself even when I felt unloveable and things felt desperate and lonely.

Do you love you? I hope so. If you aren't sure about how fantastically lovely you really are then start making a list!

xoxo.

Giving

2011-11-29T09:46:00.001-05:00

Do you give to non-profit or charitable organizations?
I do.

Where do I give?
I give to places that touch my heart
and enrich my life.

I give to:
UNRWA- The United Nations Relief Works Agency provides aid and development funding to Palestinian refugees.
Madeira- my high school. It changed my life and made me the woman I am today.
NPR- The programs and discussions expand my mind.
The Water Project- provides clean water to communities in the world.

I think giving gifts in the name of people you love is a wonderful present. I think these gifts are great, especially, if your loved ones don't need another thing or have adopted a minimalist lifestyle.

Give yourself to others, friends.

Tip Toe

2011-11-29T09:42:00.001-05:00

On tip toe,
I went in.

Metatarsal bones,
taut.

Phalanges,
flexed forward.

Careful to remain,
a shadow.

Hoping to not,
shatter the calm.

nsh, 11/28/11

Thanksgiving Recap

2011-11-28T13:51:00.001-05:00

I had the happiest Thanksgiving vacation.

Awesome things about my visit home:
Duck at the Peking Gourmet in Falls Church, VA
Brunch with the Taylors (Leigh's parents)
Cheese Grits
Spinach pies- lots of them!
Dinner with Emily and Jay and Liam
Giving Liam a bath with Emily- he is getting so big- 1 years old:)
Sweet potato casserole
Thanksgiving meal with extended family
Playing with my nephew, Gabe
Spending time with my brothers and my sister in law
Celebrating Gabe's fourth birthday (I got him a pillow pet)!
Turkey
Searching my family history in preparation for my January trip to Ireland (yippee)
Unseasonably warm weather
A walk on the trails Wolftrap
Walking around Madeira
Lounging on the back porch of Main and Chapel (at Madeira) and looking at the Potomac
Good conversations, lots of hugs, and lots of love from loved ones
Supervising (not actually playing) a family game of Scrabble
The train ride to and from DC
Seeing the Northeast by train- such pretty coastline

Admittedly, I felt very homesick when I returned home on Saturday night. It is hard to be surrounded by family and loved ones and have it be noisy and fun then return home to a quiet place where I live alone. But I feel loved in Wellesley and I love my home here. Plus, I am in the final sprint of my first semester at Wellesley. I am busy writing final exam review guides, final exams, and preparing materials for the spring semester (so that i can do work in December and january while the college is on break). Also, my close friend, Donica, is visiting me from Champaign to celebrate a BIG birthday this week. I get to spend almost 4 days with her. I am so excited. We have fun plans- more on that to come. I head home to see my parents again on December 17...I can make it. I think.

Zumba Love

2011-11-25T08:30:00.000-05:00

We may be feeling a little on the heavy side today. The fabulous feast I enjoyed yesterday is surely weighing me down.

In an effort to stay in shape with dwindling daylight hours and cold temperatures, I started Zumba. My friend Jamie started it a while ago and would rave about it on-line. She even got certified to teach the classes. She rocks. Anyways, I love to dance and it seemed like a perfect way to get moving and stay toned. Guess what? It works for me. It is a good workout program if you stick with it.

Instead of going to classes at a gym (there are tons out there if that is what you prefer), I bought this:
Zumba Exhilarate

I might look like the biggest fool in the world jumping around and dancing in my living room but I work up a real sweat and feel great while doing it. I make sure to pull all the shades and I am thankful to live on the first floor so neighbors cannot complain about my noise. After a 30 minute video (some go as long as 60 minutes and I cannot yet make it through a whole hour) I feel wonderful.
It is pricy at $90 but it is certainly cheaper than a gym membership and classes. I highly recommend you gift it to yourself if you are into dance and want a work out.

Oh, and the Zumba people don't know me from Adam so this is not an advertisement...it is just my humble review of a workout I enjoy.
Got it?
Good. :)

Zumba <3

Giving Thanks

2011-11-24T08:30:00.000-05:00

I am so thankful for this precious life and all the great friends and family I have the pleasure of enjoying it with.

I am thankful for (in no particular order):
Health
Humor
Mom and Baba
Rami
Ramsey
Allison
Gabriel
Extended family
EMily
Jay
Liam
Bella
Leigh
Christi
Tim
Iggy
January
Donica
Claire
Jenny
Andy
Tommy
Alex
So many lovely friends
Green blanket
Doob
Momo
Paddington Bear
Wellesley College
Apt. 3
August 16
Coffee
Cheese Grits- why does the Northeast not yet appreciate a hot bowl of cheese girts?!
Coke
Dr. Pepper
Five Guys
A cozy home
Nordstroms
Resilience of the human spirit
That I made it through the year
Madeira
Ireland
Snails
Zumba
Chronicles of Nadya
Running
Walking
Lake Waban
...
There are so many people, places, and things I am thankful for.

Thank you, friends.

champagne

2011-11-23T08:30:00.000-05:00

the bubble floats,
a transient hope.

a golden world.
a love affair.

the bubble burst.
so did hope.

the love?

nsh (11/19/11)

Link Love

2011-11-22T08:30:00.000-05:00

Emily sent me these:

Marcel the Shell

Meet Marcel

I love it. Thank you, Emily.

Favorite line: "You know why I smile so much? Because it is worth it."

May the longtime sun shine upon you, friends.

Petal Dress

2011-11-21T08:30:00.000-05:00

sweetheart?
the neckline.

fitted bodice.
full skirt.

petals cascading,
silk and chiffon.

hemline?
mid thigh.

snow white,
the color.

just a dress?
no.

it makes the dream,
real again.

it makes it so.

Sending out a little love

2011-11-20T19:42:00.001-05:00

Goodness, I had the biggest cry I have had in a long time tonight. I have been waiting with anticipation to read about Alicia and Andy's adoption. I have never met Alicia Paulson but I have read her blog (Posie Gets Cozy) for over 5 years. I have read it faithfully and in some ways, the love she shares with Andy and her happy cozy home in Oregon gave me hope when I felt extremely alone and hopeless. Often times I say how much I want to visit Oregon, Alicia's pictures are part of the reason I want to go. They are enchanting.

When she announced an adoption, it also gave me hope. For women that have long wanted children but never had them, for whatever reason...her story was a light in my life. Anyways, for the past few months we have all been awaiting the birth of this little girl and for the past two weeks she had not posted on her blog. I knew something bad had happened. I called Emily one day at work and told her I was worried something bad happened. It felt silly that I was so invested in the people's lives that I don't personally know. But I felt that connected. This evening she finally posted and I called Emily in tears. I am sorry to say that something bad did happen. Get your box of tissues ready before you read the story.

Posie Gets Cozy Adoption Sadness

Tonight before you go to bed, send out a little love from your heart to their home. Wish for peace and grace. They sure could use it.

morning ring

2011-11-20T09:42:00.001-05:00

hesitant to call
7:54am

good morning!
sleep lingers.
in my tone.

good morning!
happiness
in his tone.
relief.

we speak of:
sleep
laundry
concerts
protests
property rights
travel

my soul smiles.

i have found
one
my soul
loves.

nsh (11/20/11)

ear worm

2011-11-20T08:30:00.000-05:00

i love it.

listen.
you will too.

i am not a robot by marina and the diamonds

xoxo, friends.

the beat

2011-11-19T21:16:00.001-05:00

there is

a tendency

to syncopate

our rhythm.

but-

one always leads.

one always follows.

resist it.

i have

my own

pulse.

nsh (11/19/11)

Bed Time Routine

2011-11-18T08:00:00.000-05:00

Blow out candle,
darkness.

Door latched,
alone.

Chain fastened,
really alone.

Hallway creeks,
threshold of room.

Peel back covers,
no monsters hiding.

Closet doors slid shut,
monsters stuck with my wardrobe.

Fan whirls,
white noise.

Climb in bed,
tension eases.

Two pillows in the center,
safe.

Teddy bear cradled in arms,
protected.

Blankie swaddles my neck,
warm.

Alarm set,
prepared.

Switch off the lamp,
stillness.

A little prayer,
I am loved.

...

Oh no.
I need to pee.
Sigh.
This cannot wait till 7:33am.

nsh, 11/16/11

Late Night Grading Help

2011-11-17T10:35:00.001-05:00

Last night I found myself in the doldrums of grading. I avoided the papers all day, I couldn't face them. But if I did not keep up with the in flow of essays I would fall behind and hate myself later. So I graded late at night. I stretched out on my sofa so that I could see my pretty flowers, looked at my bear and wished upon the stars that Doob (the bear) could help me grade, looked at the papers behind me that motivated me to finish before sleep overwhelmed me, and looked at my coffee table with my steaming cup of tea and piles of papers to remind me to keep going.

pretty flowers.

Doob and my papers. Help me Doob! Please.

Don't stop, more essays to grade.

Hot tea and more papers keep me going.

Happy grading, friends! Just one more week till Thanksgiving holiday! We can do it!

Breathless

2011-11-16T11:26:00.001-05:00

I rarely have my breath taken away. This morning, 11/16/11, it was.
The smile on my face cannot be erased today, regardless of the intensity of the meetings I have ahead of me.

Thank you.
You know who you are.

May the longtime sun shine upon you.

Red coat

2011-11-16T08:30:00.000-05:00

Hello Lovelies

I bought myself this coat recently: Red Lace Up Trench coat
It fits me exquisitely and on dark and grey days it staves off the blues.
It makes me feel happy and cheerful.
The lace up detail on the back is unexpected and fits my personality.
I am a bit unexpected once you get to know me.
I would like to think so, at least.
Yesterday I wore it with my new high heels, patterned tights, and a conservative black knit dress.
I felt decidedly feminine, professional, and pretty.
Every woman should learn to make herself feel that way.
For me, clothes have become a great avenue to articulate the way I feel about myself.
My choices reflect that I am lovely, feminine, sweet, and pretty.
My make-up, hair, and scent reinforce that sentiment.
It is not that I am obsessed with appearance for the sake of vanity.
It is just that I feel my exterior reflects the interior functioning of my soul.
On a positive note, I feel my fashion choices have improved over the last few years.
I think this corresponds to my increasing self-esteem and confidence.
I feel good about myself.

xoxo, friends.

New Shoes

2011-11-15T10:26:00.001-05:00

So, I am not a heel wearing type of girl, normally, because I am already pretty tall. I am 5 foot 8 inches when I sit up straight and don't slouch (a constant challenge for me). But I was encouraged recently to get a pair. I am kind of in love with them. They are the perfect pair of winter heels because they go with pants, dresses, and skirts. A rubber sole and sturdy platform make them walkable. Also, the laces help them stay solidly on my tiny ankles. They do make me exceptionally tall but I don't mind standing out in the crowd every now and again.

Have a beautiful day, friends.

Heart Map

2011-11-15T09:30:00.001-05:00

Enter.
It is unlocked.
You may visit my chambers.
Explore my ventricle-
carefully.

A map?

My passion flows from the atrium.
It expels into peripheral beds;
into my lungs-
so I inhale and exhale,
into my body-
so it can pulse.

Warnings?

I will keep the key.
It can be locked,
again.
Know this-
I won't skip a beat.

nsh (11/14/11)

11-11-11

2011-11-13T17:06:00.001-05:00

Did you make a wish on 11-11-11 at 11:11 am/pm?

I did.
I can't tell you what it is, or it won't come true.
There is a pretty good chance mine will come true, I suspect.
I am ready for it!

Be sweet, friends.

Wanting a Kitty Cat

2011-11-13T15:37:00.001-05:00

Remember how back in July/August I was ready to get a kitty and name her Amal (Hope in Arabic)? Well, it never happened. After a lot of reflection I realized that the busyness of my career and my month long research trips did not make for responsible pet parenting.

That being said, I drove by Petsmart today and could not stop myself from going to the kitty house and playing with some kittens and cats. I am not ever going to become a crazy cat lady (well, never say never, I suppose) but I certainly do love the idea of owning a kitty cat. On a chilly Sunday afternoon while reading on the sofa by myself, there is nothing I would love more than to have a kitty resting on my lap or curled up next to me.

One day...

Meow, friends.

Procrastination Fun

2011-11-12T10:47:00.001-05:00

Check it:
http://www.drawastickman.com/

Happy Saturday, friends.

Ear Worm

2011-11-11T08:30:00.000-05:00

This is what is buzzing in my ears these days:

Death Cab for Cutie: I Will Possess your Heart
It takes 4 minutes of instrumentals to get to the lyrics but go along for the musical ride, it is well worth it.

The Avett Brothers: Kick Drum Heart
So romantic and upbeat. It makes me tap my toes and stomp my feet in my PJs even at 7am on rainy mornings before I lecture. Now that is a happy love song!

xoxo
Nadya

Feeling Free

2011-11-10T15:39:00.001-05:00

I was saddled with lots of extra work for the upcoming semesters of my life today. Funny how one meeting can change a lot. My first reaction was to sit in fear. I even expressed my distress to some of my closest pals. What does this mean for me and tenure? Will I still be able to research? This isn't fair. I will have no life. Love life? Good luck with that...There goes my freedom. Then I happened to come across this Gibran quote.

"You shall be free indeed when your days are not without a care nor your nights without a want and a grief,

But rather when these things girdle your life and yet you rise above them naked and unbound."

--- Gibran Khalil Gibran

Yes, the years ahead of me will be filled with lots of work. I know that I would not be any freer if my life was absent of those tasks. Indeed, it is because of all the personal grief and the countless hours that I toil at my desk alone or by the light of the sunrise that I am able to rise above it. I am filled with vitality. In some ways I know that my (relative) youth is still on my side. I have energy to devote to this cause of learning and educating. It may seem naive and idealist but I look at my vocation as a noble one. People give me their young adults (because between 18 and 21 you are learning to become an adult) and they say- teach them. Get them ready to think about the world. I do my best to make that happen. I think that is what Gibran is talking about, "rising above naked and unbound." I stay physically clothed (haha) but that I don't let the work saddle my spirits and hopes. I go forward with my high hopes and dreams unfettered.

Anyways, there was a time in my life when I thought I would be spending my energy in my late 20s and early 30s on rearing children. I felt grief, indeed lots of grief, in mourning the potential of that future with a particular person. It might happen, yet. I am not down for the count on that one, folks. Never count Scrappy Nadya down:) But my path unfolded differently than expected. Now I have this energy to create something else: a vibrant teaching agenda that will impact many young college minds (I dare you not to learn in my course) and a research schedule that will let me publish on Palestinian refugees (people who have voices that need to be heard). I am not saying that I will be a slave to my work. Rather, that to live in the world means you must become part of it. Sometimes being a part of it takes work.

My new favorite thing

2011-11-10T08:30:00.000-05:00

Alright, I really didn't want to share this gem of a website because I wanted to keep it just for me but for those gals and gents out there that love cooking for a lover...this is the website for you.

Check it: The Love Bite
They have entire menus categorized by the type of date. It is so much fun. I will let you know how their recipes go after I try some out.

Okay, now I want to direct you to this particular recipe on The Love Bite.
A Man After Every Woman's Heart: Cool guy dinner
The man that cooks this for his lady is absolutely awesome. This is how my conversation with Emily about this particular recipe went down:
me: yea

i want a guy to do this for me:

http://www.thelovebite.com/dates/pms_extravaganza/index_3.html

i mean for reals

wouldnt we all?

lobster mac and cheese

molten chocolate cake

pms?

no more!

mwahaha

Emily: mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm

omg i want that

Sent at 4:47 PM on Wednesday

me: seriously

like a man that does that

wins every womans heart

Sent at 4:48 PM on Wednesday

Yummm! Lobster mac and cheese annnnd chocolate cake. This man is good. He knows how to love a woman. Chocolate cake and lobster mac and cheese! If I keep typing it, it might lose awesomeness, right?! Wrong. It remains awesome. Lobster mac and cheese and molten chocolate cake. Still awesome. Alright, if you are one of like two men that on the off chance read this blog, remember that recipe. Right now, go bookmark it. One day, you will come home and find your lovely lady weeping and feeling like pms-poo. Or she may call you weeping. Never fear. You can be her hero. Be her Enrique Iglesias (Hero). You have an ace in your pocket, say it with me: lobster mac and cheese and molten chocolate cake. Alright, women around the world are thanking me. You will win major points. I am a professor, I know things. Trust me on this one.

Eat up, friends.

Occupying my Mind

2011-11-09T14:43:00.003-05:00

Alright, I am feeling particularly critical today- of pretty much everything and everyone, including myself. Critical but not negative...they are different. I think.

A good piece to occupy some of the space in your mind for a bit:
The Resentment Machine
I am a cog in the machine too. I admit it.
Knowing is half the battle, right G.I.Joe? What to do? Hmm.

Think, friends.

What I See

2011-11-09T11:25:00.001-05:00

Wellesley has experienced some lovely weather the last few days. Warm fall days have encouraged our trees to completely turn. It is a warm gold landscape that I have woken up to the last few mornings. Today I went on an early morning walk before my 8:30am seminar. It was gorgeous. Come along with me to see what I see:

What I see when I put my shoes on in the morning. Pretty orange flowers by my sofa.

The view out my front door. Spectacular.

Orange, red, and yellow ivy.

Hello, me!

Have a happy day, friends.

Catching up

2011-11-07T09:30:00.002-05:00

Hey Friends

I seem to be falling behind in my blogger duties as the end of the semester draws near. I have made a significant change in my internet and laptop usage over the last few weeks that seems to be hurting my blogging efforts.

I decided a few weeks ago to stop bringing my laptop home with me in the evenings and over the weekends. I do work when I am at work and focus on reading and writing words on paper when I want to do work at home. I found that I am sleeping earlier and feel less stressed. Instead of just mindlessly playing on the internet in the evenings I actually decompress and relax now. Problematically, that is also when I used to draft blog posts and writing long posts on my I-Pad is not very user friendly so I need to figure out when I will blog with my new laptop policy!

Work is keeping me quite busy these days with class papers coming due this week and next, final lectures to prepare for the end of the semester, exams to write, and grading to complete. In my non-work moments I try to spend time engaging in self-care: sleeping, eating well, walking often, and spending time with loved ones.

This weekend I saw something spectacular. On the banks of Lake Waban on Saturday evening, I was bundled up in a warm coat and saw the most fantastic sight: an iridium flare. It was magical. What is an iridium flare? Read about it here: Iridium Flare information. You should look at the little simulation of what one looks like. You don't need any special equipment but two of your own peepers fixated on the night sky. If you have a chance to see one, go see it. It was exceptionally bright and surprising. It was the highlight of my weekend.

Bear with me as I adjust to a new blogging routine.
In the meantime, be well, friends.

Crazy Weather, Crazy Week

2011-11-03T10:56:00.001-04:00

Things have been a bit nuts around here- battling a looming cold, dealing with students and midterms and upcoming papers, late night work events, finding time for friends, and stealing away a few precious moments of time for me (this usually happens at 7:30am when I walk to town to treat myself to a bagel and coffee and sit alone for just 5 minutes). It is crazy. I am not the only one feeling crazed. The weather has been equally erratic with our first real snow of the year this past Saturday night and crisp sunny fall days melting all that snow just a few days later. Here are some photos I snapped on my phone, named Telly. Snap needs to be dusted off and taken for a photography journey soon!

Snowy Sunday morning view at breakfast.

Early morning walk on Wednesday. Steam pouring off lake Waban.

Steamy Lake Waban.

Happy Halloween from Whitin Obervatory!

Someone has been busy raking (Wednesday afternoon).

Lots of leaves.

Green Hall peeping out from the trees.

I hope to write a thorough blog post tomorrow.
Take care, friends.

Halloweenie

2011-11-01T09:25:00.002-04:00

Hi Friends

I felt melancholy Halloween. I really really missed Leigh. As children we traditionally spent Halloween together.

This was our Halloween tradition:
Dinner: Halloweenies (hotdogs), apple slices, and mac and cheese
Dress in costume, find pillowcases to act as our bags for collecting candy
Trick or- Treating in both her neighborhood and my neighborhood
Weigh pillowcases filled with candy on scale in bathroom
Trade candy (I always wanted more Snickers)
Slumber party
Wake up bleary eyed for school the next morning

Last night, in honor of Leigh, I had a hotdog at Five Guys with my dear friend (who got a hamburger).
I came home, moped around a bit, watched Murder She Wrote, then spent the night on my sofa wrapped up in a warm quilt.

This morning, 11/1/11 (cool date), I woke up early and started reading and working. I feel a bit better. A gingerbread latte doesn't hurt;)

I hope you all had a Happy happy Halloween!

Take care, friends.

What I Watch!

2011-10-30T20:12:00.002-04:00

I don't have much time or desire to watch a lot of TV. But I indulge in TV watching about 3 hours a week.

My old stand-bys are Murder She Wrote and Matlock. I have always and will always watch these TV shows. They make me happy. They comfort me and every now and again I catch a late night episode on the Hallmark Mystery Channel or watch an episode on my Ipad with my Netflix subscription.

My new favorite TV show is Once Upon a Time. It is part fairy tale, part adventure, and part mystery. I LOVE it. It comes on Sunday nights at 8PM on ABC. Watch it. For just an hour once a week you are completely transported to another world. It makes me feel like I can handle another "real" week at work!

Happy Sunday, friends.