I do. er… I mean – She does.

Oh, what a wonderful weekend! I went to Jersey to celebrate my college roomie’s nuptuals. All five of us (roommates) were there!

It was so good to have all of us in one place! I forgot how bossy we all are. I’ll put myself at the top of the list. The wedding went really well. Kari is absolutely stunning. Will, you are one of the best men I’ve ever met. I know you will love, cherish, and care for Kari until you die. Kar, no one could love more than he does. Be sweet to him.

Saturday we caught a train to Philadelphia to spend the day shopping, sightseeing, and eating!

Of course, I opened my big mouth a bit too wide on the train. Katie was talking about the city, and some experiences she’d had on the train coming home late from work. I shout out, “I hate homeless people!” Good one, Annie. Completely inappropriate, I know. Let us remember what happened to me about a month ago…

And just to follow up with that craziness – I’ve seen three homeless people hit in the last month. I think it’s a scam.

On to more pleasant topics – Philly! We had so much fun! We hit H & G and Zara and some urbany store that I got some amazing red ballet flats in and Loft and a store full of funky jewelry and I can’t even remember where all else. It was exhilerating and exhausting. We had dinner at this amazing Italian restaurant. They made the best white wine sauce I’ve ever tasted in my entire life. I was tempted to take a doggie bag to my mom and have her taste it and give me a recipe. (My mom is an amazing food connesieur.)

After dinner we walked around some more, taking in the city and all that it has to offer. I love it. We jammed with some street musicians. We encountered all kinds of people that I would never meet in my town.

Before we were completely pooped, we stopped for coffee and dessert at Cosi. It was so much fun! We had the best waiter ever. We ended up having s’mores and amazing drinks!

Sunday, Katie and I went to the Philadelphia Museum of Art.  I was surprised at how much medieval art they had.  They had beautiful artwork of all the saints and martyrs.  It was amazing.  They also had tons of Asian art.  The visiting exhibit was from South American artists.  As apple pie eating, educated American, I found myself not attracted to either of these cultures’ art.  The Asian fiberworks were amazing.  But overall, I was reminded how much our culture influence our perception of beauty.  And I wish that I had Crystal or Mr. and Mrs. Will Gray with me, so I could learn a little more. 

After our hours at the museum, we bought a pretzel from a man off the street and headed to the airport.  Katie was an amazing host.  I had a fabulous weekend.  Thanks, Katie!

A practical list of don’ts for you…

I recently went on this date, and remembered why I hate dating.  I wish it were a list like Laurey’s:  “Don’t throw bouquets at me …Don’t laugh at my jokes to much…” 

Instead of a short narrative of the evening (since that would probably embarass Nurl*), I will give a quick list of don’ts you should check before taking a girl –especially this girl– on a date. 

1.   Don’t ask me to dinner and not have a plan.  I appreciate the concideration of what I like.  But when I say, “I hate making those kinds of decisions,” I mean I really hate making those decisions.  Be a man.  Have a plan.

2.  Don’t ask me questions during dinner that should only appear on an FBI employment application.  Or any other whacky questions like, “What is the best compliment you ever received?” 

3.  Don’t think that the whole world is as interested in you as you are.  After an hour and a half of someone asking questions about you, it’s time to find out something about the other person.

4.  Don’t “check in” through out the date to see how you are doing.   If you have to ask if you are entertaining enough or cute enough or suave enough, you probably aren’t.

5.  Don’t assume there will be a second date.  You know what assuming does…  Don’t tell me you could help me get fit.  Don’t tell me I could discuss whatever I don’t want to discuss now on our next date.   Don’t order me to loosen up, and act like you know all my Annaisms and the depths of my soul. 

I’m pledging:  No more dates with strangers.

*Nurl is a fictionized name. 

PS – Adrienne, Nurl is from Auburn, AL.  Not Nebraska.

The Artist Within

Tonight I had my first art lesson. My amazing teacher had me sketch a goblet, and “play with paint.” Below you will see the results of my playdate with oils. I realize that this looks like a kindergartener’s artwork. I invite you to see this so that you can marvel at the work I will be producing in a year.

To personal growth.

Cheers.