I journeyed north of the border today to visit my Canadian co-workers in Toronto. Despite an extra stop in customs and the Molson factory I passed on the way to the hotel, you wouldn't even know you were out of the country. In fact, the Toronto office reminds me a lot of The Richards Group. I even met the Canadian version of Michael Hatley. I wonder if he knows he has a foreign twin.
Here are a few memorable moments from the trip:
-A wave of panic fell over me when I looked over the taxi driver's shoulder to see the speedometer registering at 90 -- only to realize moments later that the metric system was playing a joke on me.
-Canadians are very defensive about the misperception that they live in igloos, however the idea that Texans are gun-toting cowboys seems reasonable to them.
-Who knew there were so many BBC stations?
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Deck the Halls
With Christmas only a week away, NYC has turned its holiday meter to the max. In a city where thousands of religions are celebrated everyday, New Yorkers seem to share a love of traditional Christmas hymns, towering fir trees, and elaborate nativity scenes. Here are a few holiday pics from around the city:
The holidays also mean office parties. Yesterday evening, my account group went out to a restaurant called Wild Salmon. The president and chief creative officer both showed up for the free meal as well. I thought this would keep people on their best behavior, but in true holiday party style, inappropriateness was abound. I like to think that they acted that way as fodder for my blog. However, my hunch is that it was the perfect storm of intellectual snobbery and a delicious Malbec. Here is a glimpse at some of the conversations (most of which I carefully avoided):
-Martha Stewart's business ethics (with a side story of spotting her entering the Waldorf in a horse costume)
-The Religious Right
-The Bold and the Beautiful
-The threat to national security if China takes control of the moon
-Security issues in Brazil
-Arranged marriages
-Bow ties
-Czech cuisine
-Socialized medicine
-The Second Amendment
Merry Christmas!
The holidays also mean office parties. Yesterday evening, my account group went out to a restaurant called Wild Salmon. The president and chief creative officer both showed up for the free meal as well. I thought this would keep people on their best behavior, but in true holiday party style, inappropriateness was abound. I like to think that they acted that way as fodder for my blog. However, my hunch is that it was the perfect storm of intellectual snobbery and a delicious Malbec. Here is a glimpse at some of the conversations (most of which I carefully avoided):
-Martha Stewart's business ethics (with a side story of spotting her entering the Waldorf in a horse costume)
-The Religious Right
-The Bold and the Beautiful
-The threat to national security if China takes control of the moon
-Security issues in Brazil
-Arranged marriages
-Bow ties
-Czech cuisine
-Socialized medicine
-The Second Amendment
Merry Christmas!
Monday, December 17, 2007
Countdown
Nights slept on the couch: 25
Mornings I woke up to snow: 3
Trips to the Liberty Deli where the Slavkian cashier alternates between calling me "Girl" or "Mommy": 763
Days I questioned why I left all of my friends and a great job to move here: 30
Times when it hit me, "Wow, I live in NYC": 30
Lonestars that I've ordered not because I like Lonestar (ew), but because it's from Texas: 12
Celebrity spottings: 2
Broadway shows I'm dying to see, but can't afford: 4
Menu items ordered in a foreign language: 3
Trips to the office restroom that I forgot to take the key: 58
Times lost in the city: 2
Days left until Mad P Fest (also known as Christmas vacation): 4!!!
Mornings I woke up to snow: 3
Trips to the Liberty Deli where the Slavkian cashier alternates between calling me "Girl" or "Mommy": 763
Days I questioned why I left all of my friends and a great job to move here: 30
Times when it hit me, "Wow, I live in NYC": 30
Lonestars that I've ordered not because I like Lonestar (ew), but because it's from Texas: 12
Celebrity spottings: 2
Broadway shows I'm dying to see, but can't afford: 4
Menu items ordered in a foreign language: 3
Trips to the office restroom that I forgot to take the key: 58
Times lost in the city: 2
Days left until Mad P Fest (also known as Christmas vacation): 4!!!
Saturday, December 15, 2007
Tales From The Subway
1. Choreographed Fantasy
It was one of those days when my iPod is playing the perfect mix of music. It's rush hour and the car is filled with interesting characters: A guy who had very carefully tucked his glove underneath his Rolex watch (so transparent). Two old lady lesbians canoodling in the corner. Three teenage girls wearing sunglasses in the shape of "2008." Two models wearing the skinniest skinny jeans I've ever seen. The end of a song fades out in my headphones and then I hear the first notes of "Billy Jean." Suddenly, I have this strange daydream of the entire car breaking out into a choreographed dance worthy of a 1980's Michael Jackson music video. I think this is a sign that I need to cut back on my caffeine intake.
2. Where's Waldo?
I'm sitting in a crowded subway car when I spot a dark haired guy wearing thick rimmed glasses and a red striped ski hat. He wasn't wearing a red sweater, but it still made me laugh.
3. Flashdance
I'm hurrying to transfer to another train when a homeless guy starts running in place (think Flashdance) and pointing at me. I flinch expecting to see a rat or a cockroach crawling at my feet. I look down and look back up to find him laughing hysterically. I'm so glad I could be his entertainment for the afternoon.
4. La Mariachi
I'm on the green line headed toward the East Village, when four men dressed up in full charro outfits enter the car and begin to serenade the crowd. All I can think is -- Too bad Arnold's not here. He would love this!
It was one of those days when my iPod is playing the perfect mix of music. It's rush hour and the car is filled with interesting characters: A guy who had very carefully tucked his glove underneath his Rolex watch (so transparent). Two old lady lesbians canoodling in the corner. Three teenage girls wearing sunglasses in the shape of "2008." Two models wearing the skinniest skinny jeans I've ever seen. The end of a song fades out in my headphones and then I hear the first notes of "Billy Jean." Suddenly, I have this strange daydream of the entire car breaking out into a choreographed dance worthy of a 1980's Michael Jackson music video. I think this is a sign that I need to cut back on my caffeine intake.
2. Where's Waldo?
I'm sitting in a crowded subway car when I spot a dark haired guy wearing thick rimmed glasses and a red striped ski hat. He wasn't wearing a red sweater, but it still made me laugh.
3. Flashdance
I'm hurrying to transfer to another train when a homeless guy starts running in place (think Flashdance) and pointing at me. I flinch expecting to see a rat or a cockroach crawling at my feet. I look down and look back up to find him laughing hysterically. I'm so glad I could be his entertainment for the afternoon.
4. La Mariachi
I'm on the green line headed toward the East Village, when four men dressed up in full charro outfits enter the car and begin to serenade the crowd. All I can think is -- Too bad Arnold's not here. He would love this!
Thursday, December 13, 2007
And The Dundy Goes To...
I survived the storm without any event and am "working" from "home" this afternoon. What a crazy week! Here are a few Dundies Awards from the trip:
World's Slooooooooooowest Co-Worker Award -- Rochelle
Funniest "Oh's" (and ability to pull off knee high patent leather boots within a business casual dress code) Award -- Canadian Karen
Stinkiest Coffee Award -- Centocor Cafeteria
I'm Too Good To Use A Microwave Award -- Juanita (She's Canadian too, however I don't think her 'wave snobbery has anything to do with her north-of-the-border address)
Ability To Slip The Word "Gentrified" Into Every Conversation Award -- Rochelle
Most Confusing Toll Road Award -- New Jersey Turnpike
Crankiest Employee Award -- Dreadlocked-Night-Desk Guy at Alamo
Flashiest Rent Car (If You Disregard the Huge Stain On The Seat) Award -- Chev E. Cobalt
Consideration Award -- NE Snow Storm
Jim is dreamy.
-Les
World's Slooooooooooowest Co-Worker Award -- Rochelle
Funniest "Oh's" (and ability to pull off knee high patent leather boots within a business casual dress code) Award -- Canadian Karen
Stinkiest Coffee Award -- Centocor Cafeteria
I'm Too Good To Use A Microwave Award -- Juanita (She's Canadian too, however I don't think her 'wave snobbery has anything to do with her north-of-the-border address)
Ability To Slip The Word "Gentrified" Into Every Conversation Award -- Rochelle
Most Confusing Toll Road Award -- New Jersey Turnpike
Crankiest Employee Award -- Dreadlocked-Night-Desk Guy at Alamo
Flashiest Rent Car (If You Disregard the Huge Stain On The Seat) Award -- Chev E. Cobalt
Consideration Award -- NE Snow Storm
Jim is dreamy.
-Les
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Learning As I Go
My stay in Horsham is almost over. I'm not looking forward to saying goodbye to my quiet hotel room, flashy Cobalt, and company-paid meals. But, a break from endless clinical reviews and graphic endoscopic photo collages will be nice.
Apparently, Horsham is planning to send me off with a snow storm. "Wintry mix" to be exact. I'm holding out until tomorrow, but it looks like the drive back to New York will be too treacherous. The new plan (fresh from a little Web research) is to drop the rental car off in Philadelphia and take the train to Penn Station. If I don't say so myself -- I've become quite enterprising over the last month.
I have to admit, the living arrangements and stress of the new job are beginning to wear on me. I miss my privacy, my friends, and my routine. Not that I didn't ask for it, but the last month has been a lot to swallow. Hopefully next week will fly by -- company Christmas party on Monday, Toronto on Wednesday and Thursday, home to Sugar Land on Friday, lunch with Becca on Saturday. I can't wait!
Wish me luck getting back tomorrow!
Apparently, Horsham is planning to send me off with a snow storm. "Wintry mix" to be exact. I'm holding out until tomorrow, but it looks like the drive back to New York will be too treacherous. The new plan (fresh from a little Web research) is to drop the rental car off in Philadelphia and take the train to Penn Station. If I don't say so myself -- I've become quite enterprising over the last month.
I have to admit, the living arrangements and stress of the new job are beginning to wear on me. I miss my privacy, my friends, and my routine. Not that I didn't ask for it, but the last month has been a lot to swallow. Hopefully next week will fly by -- company Christmas party on Monday, Toronto on Wednesday and Thursday, home to Sugar Land on Friday, lunch with Becca on Saturday. I can't wait!
Wish me luck getting back tomorrow!
Monday, December 10, 2007
Welcome to beautiful Horsham, PA
I've escaped the choir of honking taxis and the shoulder-to-shoulder holiday crowds of New York City for the week. I made the 3-hour road trip last night to Horsham, PA with my cat-loving, hippie co-worker, Rochelle in a boss Chevy Cobalt. I always succeed at renting the most uncool car in the lot. As I eased out into the madness of midtown Manhattan, the skies opened up. At this moment, I also noticed that Alamo had very considerately rented me a vehicle with only 1/8 gallon of gas. Not to worry -- I decided that I would get out of the city and pull over to a gas station along the highway.
Two miles and one hour later, we were on the New Jersey turnpike. It's still pouring rain, I have no idea where I'm going, and I'm driving a bit like my grandma. As I'm trying to block out Rochelle's rant about the gentrification of Brooklyn (I don't know -- don't ask), I notice that the dashboard is flashing "LOW FUEL." Of course this all happens when I'm on some unmarked bridge with no civilization in sight.
This could potentially be disasterous.
I made it over the bridge and took the next exit. In an effort to save every last gas fume, I turned off the heat and coasted into a tiny, run down New Jersey town. I snaked my way past a few questionable Indian restaurants and a 24-hour video store to find the one open gas station. I'm going to be honest -- it was the happiest moment of my life.
We found our way back to the highway and about two hours later pulled into the hotel. I walked into my room to see a full-size bed, a huge closet, and a big bathroom -- heaven. My first thought was, "Wow. This would cost $1400 a month to rent in New York." Oh, dear -- I've only been in NYC for a month and I already think in terms of real estate. I considered sleeping on the couch for old time sake, but changed my mind very quickly, brushed my teeth, curled up in bed, and had the best seven hours of shut eye that I've had in quite a while.
It was a quick night and an early morning. I won't bore you with the details of training, but it's gone well so far. It's encouraging to know that I'm part of selling a drug that has helped so many people. I only have a few minutes before I have to leave for my next session. I'll post another update tomorrow.
Team work is dreamwork. (Dad- It's a Rev Run reference. Google it.)
-Les
Two miles and one hour later, we were on the New Jersey turnpike. It's still pouring rain, I have no idea where I'm going, and I'm driving a bit like my grandma. As I'm trying to block out Rochelle's rant about the gentrification of Brooklyn (I don't know -- don't ask), I notice that the dashboard is flashing "LOW FUEL." Of course this all happens when I'm on some unmarked bridge with no civilization in sight.
This could potentially be disasterous.
I made it over the bridge and took the next exit. In an effort to save every last gas fume, I turned off the heat and coasted into a tiny, run down New Jersey town. I snaked my way past a few questionable Indian restaurants and a 24-hour video store to find the one open gas station. I'm going to be honest -- it was the happiest moment of my life.
We found our way back to the highway and about two hours later pulled into the hotel. I walked into my room to see a full-size bed, a huge closet, and a big bathroom -- heaven. My first thought was, "Wow. This would cost $1400 a month to rent in New York." Oh, dear -- I've only been in NYC for a month and I already think in terms of real estate. I considered sleeping on the couch for old time sake, but changed my mind very quickly, brushed my teeth, curled up in bed, and had the best seven hours of shut eye that I've had in quite a while.
It was a quick night and an early morning. I won't bore you with the details of training, but it's gone well so far. It's encouraging to know that I'm part of selling a drug that has helped so many people. I only have a few minutes before I have to leave for my next session. I'll post another update tomorrow.
Team work is dreamwork. (Dad- It's a Rev Run reference. Google it.)
-Les
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
City Mouse. Country Mouse.
It's my third week in the City and I'm still alive (in case you were wondering). Here's a recap of the week's shenanigans so far:
Monday:
Kevin and I went to a Rangers game at Madison Square Garden. 1) New York sports fans are weird. 2) Hockey fans are weirder. We had a lot of fun and even saw a couple of fights on ice skates (the best kind of fight). Kevin had scored the tickets from some over-paid vendor at his firm, so it didn't sting so bad when the game ended in a four point loss. P.S. MSG is kind of disappointing. Old, small, smelly -- I'm beginning to see a theme here.
Tuesday:
Speaking of free tickets, last night I went to a preview of my new fav movie -- Juno. It is this brilliantly written, witty, sweet love story that is totally worth the $8. Here's why you should love this movie as much as I do:
-The soundtrack is spectacular
-You'll love/hate each of the characters (my test of good writing)
-It doesn't talk down to you
-You will laugh and cry (obligatory caveat -- I've been know to cry over sentimental commercials)
-Stars two Arrested Development alums (I'm still mourning its cancellation and if this is the closest I can get to its return, I'll take it)
-Allison Janney (the woman from West Wing) is hilarious (who knew?)
Wednesday and Thursday:
Next is a series of excruciating apartment "interviews." They usually go something like this -- Awkward introduction to a stranger you may potentially share a bathroom with. Followed by a (very quick -- there's not much to show in an 800 sq. ft. apartment) tour. Then, there's a series of questions -- What do you do? (i.e. Can you pay the rent?), What are your work hours? (i.e. Are you going to be home all the time?), What do you like to do on the weekends? (i.e. Are illegal activities going to occur in the apartment?). Ugh. I'm so ready to get this process over with.
Friday and Saturday:
This post is getting quite long, so I will hurry it up a bit. This weekend is a UT-A&M alum pub crawl in the East Village, followed by Sarah and Andrea's Christmas party. I'm certain that there will be at least one post-worthy story from this so I will save details until then.
Sunday:
Then, it's sayonara NYC and konnichiha Horsham, PA. It will be an exciting four day, three night stay in the lovely Joesph Ambler Inn (www.joesphamblerinn.com). And, despite the fact that I will be stuck spending my time in gastroenterology sales training, I can't wait! The notion of falling asleep on a piece of furniture not intended for TV watching makes me weak in the knees.
If you've made it this far in the post, clearly you are either A) my mom or B) slacking off at work (as am I). I miss you and can't wait to see everyone in a few weeks.
Thundercats are go! (Juno reference -- see the movie!!)
Love, Les
Monday:
Kevin and I went to a Rangers game at Madison Square Garden. 1) New York sports fans are weird. 2) Hockey fans are weirder. We had a lot of fun and even saw a couple of fights on ice skates (the best kind of fight). Kevin had scored the tickets from some over-paid vendor at his firm, so it didn't sting so bad when the game ended in a four point loss. P.S. MSG is kind of disappointing. Old, small, smelly -- I'm beginning to see a theme here.
Tuesday:
Speaking of free tickets, last night I went to a preview of my new fav movie -- Juno. It is this brilliantly written, witty, sweet love story that is totally worth the $8. Here's why you should love this movie as much as I do:
-The soundtrack is spectacular
-You'll love/hate each of the characters (my test of good writing)
-It doesn't talk down to you
-You will laugh and cry (obligatory caveat -- I've been know to cry over sentimental commercials)
-Stars two Arrested Development alums (I'm still mourning its cancellation and if this is the closest I can get to its return, I'll take it)
-Allison Janney (the woman from West Wing) is hilarious (who knew?)
Wednesday and Thursday:
Next is a series of excruciating apartment "interviews." They usually go something like this -- Awkward introduction to a stranger you may potentially share a bathroom with. Followed by a (very quick -- there's not much to show in an 800 sq. ft. apartment) tour. Then, there's a series of questions -- What do you do? (i.e. Can you pay the rent?), What are your work hours? (i.e. Are you going to be home all the time?), What do you like to do on the weekends? (i.e. Are illegal activities going to occur in the apartment?). Ugh. I'm so ready to get this process over with.
Friday and Saturday:
This post is getting quite long, so I will hurry it up a bit. This weekend is a UT-A&M alum pub crawl in the East Village, followed by Sarah and Andrea's Christmas party. I'm certain that there will be at least one post-worthy story from this so I will save details until then.
Sunday:
Then, it's sayonara NYC and konnichiha Horsham, PA. It will be an exciting four day, three night stay in the lovely Joesph Ambler Inn (www.joesphamblerinn.com). And, despite the fact that I will be stuck spending my time in gastroenterology sales training, I can't wait! The notion of falling asleep on a piece of furniture not intended for TV watching makes me weak in the knees.
If you've made it this far in the post, clearly you are either A) my mom or B) slacking off at work (as am I). I miss you and can't wait to see everyone in a few weeks.
Thundercats are go! (Juno reference -- see the movie!!)
Love, Les
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Let's Get Physical, Physical
Yesterday after work I signed up for a gym membership. DDB has a corporate account with a pretty swanky gym in the City called New York Health and Racquet Club. You can look at it here --> www.nyhrc.com. Now keep in mind, all New York City buildings are old and small. It's nothing like the mammouth 24 Hours or Gold Gyms in Texas. But, it does have a indoor pool, sauna, squash court, etc. I have a bunch of guest passes, so if you come visit me you can check it out.
I decided to get up early this morning for my first aerobics class. It wasn't quite the same as the Dallas Y -- no crazy lady in the back doing her own routine or guy standing really close to the mirror making overly dramatic faces. The class did have an added challenge of trying to decode the instructor's thick New York accent. By the way -- northerners say "grapevine" really weird. Anyway -- I think getting back to my gym routine will help make things feel a little more normal. Between the gym and all of the walking, I should be in great shape in no time.
I decided to get up early this morning for my first aerobics class. It wasn't quite the same as the Dallas Y -- no crazy lady in the back doing her own routine or guy standing really close to the mirror making overly dramatic faces. The class did have an added challenge of trying to decode the instructor's thick New York accent. By the way -- northerners say "grapevine" really weird. Anyway -- I think getting back to my gym routine will help make things feel a little more normal. Between the gym and all of the walking, I should be in great shape in no time.
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Faves
Complaints:
5. Always getting caught behind a smoker
4. That the sun sets by 4:30
3. How something can be only 1 mile away, but take you 45 minutes to get to
2. The slow death occurring to the bottom hems of all of my pants
1. How Duane Reade can sell you a box of Cheerios for $7 without flinching (Ha, even Two-Buck Chuck costs $3)
Raves:
5. The Park
4. My morning walk to work
3. The endless list of things I want to see, taste, experience
2. Public transportation
1. This view of the Empire State Building from my office window today
5. Always getting caught behind a smoker
4. That the sun sets by 4:30
3. How something can be only 1 mile away, but take you 45 minutes to get to
2. The slow death occurring to the bottom hems of all of my pants
1. How Duane Reade can sell you a box of Cheerios for $7 without flinching (Ha, even Two-Buck Chuck costs $3)
Raves:
5. The Park
4. My morning walk to work
3. The endless list of things I want to see, taste, experience
2. Public transportation
1. This view of the Empire State Building from my office window today
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Team Rockman
I got this email from Jason (my boss at TRG) today. It literally made me laugh out loud, so I decided I had to share.
In reference to my advertising star sighting (see previous post):
"Anyway, that guy who wrote the McD’s jingle is a total hack. How is that guy not on life support by now? It probably has something to do with the amount of residual coke still pumping through his veins and number of interns he has “taken under his wing.”"
In defense of his best boss title:
"And what’s up with sharing an office? Great for you, not so great for your boss. She will grow to hate the fact that you are smarter than her. She will become extremely paranoid and start taking all her files home with her every night. Wait for it. It will happen."
And he closed with:
"I’m outta here. Going home to my warm, safe, suburban existence. Maybe if I’m lucky my wife will let me drive her Volvo wagon to work on Wednesday. Fingers crossed. Tell your boss it is only a matter of time until everyone finds out she is an empty suit.
I’m the best,
Jason (the most influential person in your life to date) Rockman"
I will always be Team Rockman.
In reference to my advertising star sighting (see previous post):
"Anyway, that guy who wrote the McD’s jingle is a total hack. How is that guy not on life support by now? It probably has something to do with the amount of residual coke still pumping through his veins and number of interns he has “taken under his wing.”"
In defense of his best boss title:
"And what’s up with sharing an office? Great for you, not so great for your boss. She will grow to hate the fact that you are smarter than her. She will become extremely paranoid and start taking all her files home with her every night. Wait for it. It will happen."
And he closed with:
"I’m outta here. Going home to my warm, safe, suburban existence. Maybe if I’m lucky my wife will let me drive her Volvo wagon to work on Wednesday. Fingers crossed. Tell your boss it is only a matter of time until everyone finds out she is an empty suit.
I’m the best,
Jason (the most influential person in your life to date) Rockman"
I will always be Team Rockman.
On A Sesame Seed Bun
My account group was invited to the Partnership for a Drug Free America (think "This is your brain. This is your brain on drugs.") gala last night at the Waldorf-Astoria. The hotel is s-w-a-n-k and dripping with Christmas decorations this time of year. I walked into the hall where they were holding the cocktail hour to find a swarm of suits sipping whiskey and discussing quarterly earnings. I thought to myself, this is the best party I've ever crashed. Well, at least it felt that way. Fortunately, the hostess did in fact find my name on the list and the party proceeded into this huge theater space lit by hundreds of candles and filled with the sound of shameless networking. As I sat down, my co-worker leans over and points to the older gentleman sitting a few seats over from us. (Brace yourself for this) It was the guy who wrote one of the most famous commercials of all time:
Two all beef patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, onions...
As I'm drooling over the McDonalds guy, the chief creative officer of BBDO (another powerhouse ad agency) walks over to shake his hand. Welcome to New York. The night was filled with a slew of recognizable faces -- Hannah Storm, Charles Rangle, William Weldon. The food and wine were yummy. And, I got to take home one of the coveted gala goodie bags.
(A little juxtaposition just for fun) At the end of the night, I picked up my Target purse from coat check, walked backed to my crowded apartment (all 5 roommates were home last night), made up my couch bed, put my ear buds in to drown out the next door neighbors who think they are a rock band and the angry Italians outside that yell for no reason, and fell asleep happy.
Two all beef patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, onions...
As I'm drooling over the McDonalds guy, the chief creative officer of BBDO (another powerhouse ad agency) walks over to shake his hand. Welcome to New York. The night was filled with a slew of recognizable faces -- Hannah Storm, Charles Rangle, William Weldon. The food and wine were yummy. And, I got to take home one of the coveted gala goodie bags.
(A little juxtaposition just for fun) At the end of the night, I picked up my Target purse from coat check, walked backed to my crowded apartment (all 5 roommates were home last night), made up my couch bed, put my ear buds in to drown out the next door neighbors who think they are a rock band and the angry Italians outside that yell for no reason, and fell asleep happy.
Friday, November 23, 2007
Happy Thanksgiving
The 4-1-1 on my first New York Thanksgiving...
I met Sarah, Whitney (a CHS friend), and Lauren (a UT graduate school friend) for the ceremonial Macy's Thanksgiving Day Pre-Parade. We stood in line with thousands of bratty, sugar-high New York kids to see all of the balloons. The parade is my favorite. It's taking forever to upload these tonight, but here's the Dora pic as promised (the rest are on my Facebook page if you're interested):
Afterward we drank hot tea and ate really delicious Chinese food at a restaurant on the Upper West Side. I'm not sure what it means, but my fortune seemed oddly appropriate. So, I slipped it in my wallet for safe keeping. It read, "Swimming is easy. Staying afloat is hard."
I spent the night at Sarah's place. We woke up that morning, watched some of the parade, and walked to the market. We bought a few necessities -- you become a lot more conservative at the grocery store when you know you have to carry it all home. Lauren came over later and we cooked and drank mimosas. It didn't compare to the Norris family Thanksgiving, but it was a respectable holiday meal. Food pictures never turn out well, but here are a few:
That night, my high school friends, Dennis and Robert called to invite us to another feast. Robert gave us the address and said to look for the "house on top of the building." We begrungingly changed out of our sweatpants into party clothes and took the train into Manhattan. Indeed, this apartment was actually a building on top of a building. This place was really incredible. The view was great and the desserts were even better. Some Clement's reminiscing, hot apple cider, and a heated game of Taboo. It was a fun night.
Sarah and I had decided earlier that night that we wanted to go Black Friday shopping the next day. It didn't make much sense to take the train back to New Jersey, so we headed to Midtown to crash at Stephanie's place. This idea didn't seem so brillant when the alarm went off at 5am, but we managed to get dressed and headed to Chelsea. Because stores are generally spread out from each other, the crowds weren't so bad. I found the perfect party dress for a gala I was invited to on Monday -- and it will probably double for Sarah and Andrea's upcoming Christmas party. We found a lot of great deals. I wish I had gotten more of my Christmas shopping done, but I guess that will have to wait until later.
Exhausted, Sarah and I went back to Stephanie's place to take a nap. The alarm went off again around 2 and we headed back out to watch the UT-A&M game. Alot of the alumni go to a BBQ restaurant called Hill Country. It's definitely fake Texas BBQ -- I even get the impression that the restaurant is making fun of Texans. But, the TVs are big and Longhorns are abound. I had been there once before when I was visiting. Whitney, Shannon (next door neighbor in college), and Greg (Shannon's friend) met us there. Oddly enough, there was a whole slew of Clements alumni -- small world. (The game was pretty terrible so I will leave out any football commentary).
Now I'm back in New Jersey about to get ready to go out with Sarah and Andrea. Tomorrow's plans are to sleep in and go see a movie. It's my turn for the shower, so I better run. Cheers!
I met Sarah, Whitney (a CHS friend), and Lauren (a UT graduate school friend) for the ceremonial Macy's Thanksgiving Day Pre-Parade. We stood in line with thousands of bratty, sugar-high New York kids to see all of the balloons. The parade is my favorite. It's taking forever to upload these tonight, but here's the Dora pic as promised (the rest are on my Facebook page if you're interested):
Afterward we drank hot tea and ate really delicious Chinese food at a restaurant on the Upper West Side. I'm not sure what it means, but my fortune seemed oddly appropriate. So, I slipped it in my wallet for safe keeping. It read, "Swimming is easy. Staying afloat is hard."
I spent the night at Sarah's place. We woke up that morning, watched some of the parade, and walked to the market. We bought a few necessities -- you become a lot more conservative at the grocery store when you know you have to carry it all home. Lauren came over later and we cooked and drank mimosas. It didn't compare to the Norris family Thanksgiving, but it was a respectable holiday meal. Food pictures never turn out well, but here are a few:
That night, my high school friends, Dennis and Robert called to invite us to another feast. Robert gave us the address and said to look for the "house on top of the building." We begrungingly changed out of our sweatpants into party clothes and took the train into Manhattan. Indeed, this apartment was actually a building on top of a building. This place was really incredible. The view was great and the desserts were even better. Some Clement's reminiscing, hot apple cider, and a heated game of Taboo. It was a fun night.
Sarah and I had decided earlier that night that we wanted to go Black Friday shopping the next day. It didn't make much sense to take the train back to New Jersey, so we headed to Midtown to crash at Stephanie's place. This idea didn't seem so brillant when the alarm went off at 5am, but we managed to get dressed and headed to Chelsea. Because stores are generally spread out from each other, the crowds weren't so bad. I found the perfect party dress for a gala I was invited to on Monday -- and it will probably double for Sarah and Andrea's upcoming Christmas party. We found a lot of great deals. I wish I had gotten more of my Christmas shopping done, but I guess that will have to wait until later.
Exhausted, Sarah and I went back to Stephanie's place to take a nap. The alarm went off again around 2 and we headed back out to watch the UT-A&M game. Alot of the alumni go to a BBQ restaurant called Hill Country. It's definitely fake Texas BBQ -- I even get the impression that the restaurant is making fun of Texans. But, the TVs are big and Longhorns are abound. I had been there once before when I was visiting. Whitney, Shannon (next door neighbor in college), and Greg (Shannon's friend) met us there. Oddly enough, there was a whole slew of Clements alumni -- small world. (The game was pretty terrible so I will leave out any football commentary).
Now I'm back in New Jersey about to get ready to go out with Sarah and Andrea. Tomorrow's plans are to sleep in and go see a movie. It's my turn for the shower, so I better run. Cheers!
Thursday, November 22, 2007
You Moved Here...3 Hours Ago?
My first five days in New York City have been a blur. I packed up my apartment in Dallas...
...said goodbye to my friends...
...and Dad and I drove the stealthy moving truck to Sugar Land.
Then, I repacked for my new life...
...and caught a plane to NYC. When I arrived, I stood directly at the shoot of the baggage claim sweating in anticipation of my only belongings having made it 1,500 miles from where I had left them. Fortunately, the luggage gods were on my side and my nondescript, embarassingly heavy luggage appeared. I lugged my things to a cab and proceeded to make my first NYC mistake -- I gave the driver the wrong address. He was not pleased and proceeded to punish me by blasting acid jazz all the way from Newark to Manhattan. And, I'm not sure, but I think he passed gas too.
Stephanie met me outside of her brownstone and we hauled what felt like 10,000 lbs up four flights of stairs. Panting, sweating, and totally exhausted, I set up my corner in the my new temporary home...
After a quick shower and a drink, Stephanie and I left for a welcome-to-NY celebration. We met up with some of Steph's friends in the Meatpacking District. Here are a few highlights of my first few hours in the City -- excellent people watching, a lost cell phone returned by a very generous cabbie, some unidentifiable, yet delicious Korean food, and the best view of the City I've ever seen. Stephanie even vowed to introduce me to a "tall, white, handsome man." I'm pretty sure that's not how the saying goes, but oh well.
The next day, Sarah met me for lunch and the most intense Target shopping experience ever. I nerded it up by taking a dry run to my office. Here I am posing in front of the building...
While Sarah snaps my picture and creates hard evidence of my dorkiness, I spot Stephen Colbert walking inconspiculously by on the sidewalk. My first NYC star/presidential candidate sighting!
Afterward, Sarah and I made the trek to the Target in Brooklyn. It was definitely sensory overload. Apparently New Yorkers aren't used to having shopping carts because they were out of control. It was like Supermarket Sweep. You'll be happy to know that we did survive with minimal injury and no permanent scars. I plan to carefully ration my soap and shampoo usage however to minimize future Target trips.
There's so much more to tell, but I will save it for later posts. Once I have my own computer (a story worthy of its own entry) I will be more consistent. I must rest up for tomorrow's Thanksgiving feast!
...said goodbye to my friends...
...and Dad and I drove the stealthy moving truck to Sugar Land.
Then, I repacked for my new life...
...and caught a plane to NYC. When I arrived, I stood directly at the shoot of the baggage claim sweating in anticipation of my only belongings having made it 1,500 miles from where I had left them. Fortunately, the luggage gods were on my side and my nondescript, embarassingly heavy luggage appeared. I lugged my things to a cab and proceeded to make my first NYC mistake -- I gave the driver the wrong address. He was not pleased and proceeded to punish me by blasting acid jazz all the way from Newark to Manhattan. And, I'm not sure, but I think he passed gas too.
Stephanie met me outside of her brownstone and we hauled what felt like 10,000 lbs up four flights of stairs. Panting, sweating, and totally exhausted, I set up my corner in the my new temporary home...
After a quick shower and a drink, Stephanie and I left for a welcome-to-NY celebration. We met up with some of Steph's friends in the Meatpacking District. Here are a few highlights of my first few hours in the City -- excellent people watching, a lost cell phone returned by a very generous cabbie, some unidentifiable, yet delicious Korean food, and the best view of the City I've ever seen. Stephanie even vowed to introduce me to a "tall, white, handsome man." I'm pretty sure that's not how the saying goes, but oh well.
The next day, Sarah met me for lunch and the most intense Target shopping experience ever. I nerded it up by taking a dry run to my office. Here I am posing in front of the building...
While Sarah snaps my picture and creates hard evidence of my dorkiness, I spot Stephen Colbert walking inconspiculously by on the sidewalk. My first NYC star/presidential candidate sighting!
Afterward, Sarah and I made the trek to the Target in Brooklyn. It was definitely sensory overload. Apparently New Yorkers aren't used to having shopping carts because they were out of control. It was like Supermarket Sweep. You'll be happy to know that we did survive with minimal injury and no permanent scars. I plan to carefully ration my soap and shampoo usage however to minimize future Target trips.
There's so much more to tell, but I will save it for later posts. Once I have my own computer (a story worthy of its own entry) I will be more consistent. I must rest up for tomorrow's Thanksgiving feast!
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