counting to....

Well it’s officially in the 10 day forecast- which means I can start getting super pumped up for my first official 2013 vacation.  I am heading off to Arizona for a week of adventure and relaxation. I’ve never been to the Southwest before, so I am really looking forward to seeing somewhere new. I will finally get to visit the Grand Canyon (anyone else remember when the Brady Bunch went there? I think Bobby got lost and then when he was found the whole family got American Indian names), and seeing just the natural beauty of the desert. I cannot wait for a few days by the pool as well, soaking up some sunshine and relaxation. There’s still a lot to do to get ready to get out of town, including finding some good vacation reads and picking up some much needed sunscreen. Anyone have any tips they want to share?

(photo from pinterest)

The Silver Linings Playbook

I am behind the times - right around when the movie, “The Silver Linings Playbook” was released (I think it was last fall?), half of the bloggers I follow wrote about how amazing the book was. It was on my list to be read the book by Matthew Quick ever since several people claimed this to be one of their all-time favorites, and it certainly did not disappoint me.  Even though I hadn’t seen the movie (there were Oscar nominations though, so that makes the plot fair game), I had an idea of the premise  - but it was the style of writing that made me not want to put this book down, it was so honest and such a powerful story. I also will say I just loved the name Pat Peoples – it still makes me smile – I love unique names. I thought the detail regarding Pat’s mental illness was very interesting  and how he and those around him dealt with the issues surrounding all of their lives – everyone was impacted by him, for good and bad.

(photo from tumblr) 

lost and found

Last week I was extremely absent minded and left various things at various places- and really did not expect to find things exactly where I left them, but to my surprise there they were. I left my combination lock that I’ve had forever at the gym, as I like to hang it on the hook inside the locker while I am in and out of it- that does make my life a bit easier than tossing it in my bag and digging for it each round of a wardrobe change. I left the lock on Friday morning, and imagine my surprise when I found this morning- hanging on the hook in the locker- it was like oh hi there Jill – you came back for me (and here I was planning on purchasing a new one after work).  This made my day- all before 9 am…


(photo from Luda Onischuk)

In your Easter bonnet

On Easter Sunday- I went to my favorite gym class, and then ended up walking with a friend back across town, where on Fifth Avenue we stumble across the Easter Parade. This was very unique as people in amazing hats and finery just strolled along, posing for photos for those passing by. I wasn’t even aware this was an annual event, but I’d definitely make a point to make this a regular walking activity on Easter – just seeing everyone go all out in a traditional springtime stroll was really fun.