Friday, June 18, 2010

Amateur Book Reviewer

In this spirit of Father's Day this weekend, I would like to say Thank You to my wonderful Daddy for instilling in me the love of reading.  I've always been a book nerd.  I've always loved to read, and have enjoyed sitting in on a rainy day and reading a beautiful love story, or something comical.  I contribute my love of writing, to my love of reading, and after giving the idea to my friend, decided that I would become an Amateur Book Reviewer.  Since summer is a wonderful time to get lost in a book, I will post my thoughts on my summer reading list.

Book # 1:  "My Fair Lazy" by the Fabulous, Sassy, and Wonderful Jen Lancaster

If you haven't had the opportunity to pick up any of Jen Lancaster's books, I highly recommend that you start with her first book, "Bitter is the New Black".  Jen was a big wig in the dot com industry, and post 9-11 unfortunately put her in a position of unemployment.  Through the encouragement of her adorning husband, Jen started writing about her work finding experiences, challenges, ups and downs, and triumphs in her blog .  She handles everything with such humor, that if I were to meet her, I think I would die!

Her 5th Book, "My Fair Lazy" is all about her "Jenaissance", her self-discovery into arts, culture, new foods, and less reality television!  One thing I love about her writing, is that there are often moments while I'm reading and go, "I totally thought that too!".  Jen is an avid lover of reality television, and while she is the first to admit it, we all know that reality tv is captivating no matter how much you try to convince others that you don't watch any of the shows.  I myself, am guilty.  I love stupid reality tv shows, and since I've been watching "The Hills" when it was "Laguna Beach" I can't stop watching now!  Jen put herself out of her comfort zone, went to new restaurants, ate different foods, experienced the arts, traveled with her friends, met new "cultured" friends, and even dragged her Husband to wine and cheese classes!  Its an inspiring read because it encourages you to get out of your comfort zone and try something new!  I've decided to have a "Britaissance" and since I've already taken a leap by moving and not really knowing anyone, I am adding to my list certain things I've always wanted to do, but never had the time.

I'll keep you posted on my adventures...

One things for certain, I love Jen Lancaster, and if you ever need a gift for the person that has everything, start with "Bitter is The New Black"

Although I'm not sure many Dads would appreciate this gift.

Friday, June 11, 2010

Greetings From Austin

Hi!

I've been meaning to write, but have been busy getting settled in to the place!  My apartment is great, and Mookie is literally right at home (although I know he misses having direct access to his backyard).  I've done a lot of exploring around the city, and can honestly say I feel pretty comfortable driving, although I tend to stay in my little pocket of the city.

I've been applying for jobs, and have been accepted to the MBA in Digital Media Management at St. Edwards University- a Catholic University here in Austin.  Now the endless debate begins, what if I get a good job?  In two years I'll have an MBA... that type of conundrum.  I know that the answer will come to me, and I am just taking everything one day at a time.

There is so much to do in this city.  It is all about living local, shopping local, and being local.  So many live music venues, you could literally be out every night seeing a different band.  I live next to a great joint called the Mean Eyed Cat, and have yet to go hang out, but it seems pretty awesome.  Mookie has helped me meet some people in my complex, as well as my Cousin who I am utterly grateful for!  Today she and I went to Town Lake or "Lady Bird Lake" and rented paddle boards.  It was awesome, and super difficult.  Paddling back we had to go against the wind, which resulted in both of us falling in the lake and eventually sitting down to paddle back to the dock.  I wish someone had filmed us, it would have been a great youtube video!  I've been meaning to explore the city more with my camera, and hopefully will get a chance to do that this weekend.  As for now, here are a few pics:

Followers