26 March 2010

A Fond Farewell

They say that you're either an East Coast or a West Coast person. Although my experiences out west are limited (working to adjust that), I am betting that I am truly an East Coast girl. My style fits in here well, I feel very comfortable here, and am usually able to relax better here than other places.

So it is with a fond smile and "I'll be back soon enough I'm sure" that I bid adieu to the East Coast for the season!

In other news, Ellen will be very proud of me in that I am half-way through the third book of the Harry Potter set (annoyingly addicting little things) and actually sat on the porch in the sun smelling the blossoms and did nothing for at least 30 minutes.

*bows to applause*

12 March 2010

Oceanic Renewal

My elements are definitely a strong water and fire. I assume my personality can be attributed to fire, but the essence of my being is largely driven by water. Despite a crushing deadline and other major issues that would normally stress me beyond measure, I have already calmed immensely after only six days of being very near water, especially salt water. Imagine how I'll feel after another couple of weeks down here!

Two blogs in one week is enough signal alone that I'm much more relaxed. Give me a couple more days and I'll even be eating properly and working out consistently. Magical. I started a watercolour that hasn't gotten terribly far, but the fact that it's started is a great sign that I'm recognising life exists outside of work and a few instant gratification activities.

My reading during this month and holiday is dedicated to two book sets, The second Drizzt series by Salvatore and the Harry Potter set. Yes, that's right, I haven't read the Harry Potter set. Sigh. However, I'm almost done with the first book in each set - awesome reading!



09 March 2010

A roaring fire, driving on the beach, and tea

What's all that make? A great birthday of course!

Besides my awesome loot, I mean, extremely thoughtful gifts from wonderful people, I was lucky enough to discover that the north end beach of the Outer Banks islands is drivable. Yes, that means you can take your car on the beach.



Of course, the common sense of driving a MiniCooper on sand may provide doubt, but it has been known while I recognise what probably isn't a great idea, that has nothing to do with the result. Besides, there was enough traffic on the beach to help when I inevitably misjudged a soft section as you can see below.



However, I now understand the nuances of the beach driving experience (better, at least...after a couple failed experiments), and had a fabulous drive. Elle glared at me many times. Hopefully I can kick that common sense out of her soon.



I loved how there was all the stumps, shells, and oh yeah, on-coming traffic with NO LINES. It was magical ... no rules (except you were discouraged to hit other people and to not speed). It was a very cool experience!



Moving on from the beach excitement (well, not really, I'll be returning tomorrow. And the next day.), it's cool enough out to enjoy a lovely fire (real one) in the fireplace while leaving the door wide open for the air to flow in off the water. I'm not paying the heating bill after all :) It's been a most excellent day complete with bacon, wine and tea, so welcome, 32nd year of my life!