I'll be home for Christmas!

I am loving life right about now, sitting in my rocking chair in the Baltimore airport.  I’m on my way home for Christmas, and I don’t think I’ve ever been more excited to see the south.  New York has been really good to me so far, but I am ready for some sweet tea and southern accents. 

My bag was way over the weight limit, so I had to pay the additional fee.  It’s all because of those Christmas presents that I intended to wait and buy when I got home.  I decided that New York gifts would be better.  I’m glad I did a little shopping though.  While in the Chelsea Best Buy, I got this huge ego boost by some random stranger.  I was looking at the television series dvds, when he walked by and pointed at one of the covers and said “that should be your face instead.”  I could’ve kissed him square on the mouth.

I love the airport at Christmas.  There are kids and dogs everywhere, and people have generally been in good spirits…even after the security line that took an hour and a half.  I’ve been fortunate to see my family over the last few weeks while they have been visiting, and now I get to see my friends too!  Yay for vacation!

The Sound of Music

It's amazing how influential music is over your mood.  A song can make you feel like you can conquer the world, or make you curl up into a ball and rock yourself back and forth while crying hysterically (never done it).  Music does provoke all kinds of emotions, and that's exactly why I love it.

I recently changed up the selections on my ipod, and intentionally chose more uplifting songs.  On my way to work this morning, I just couldn't stop smiling.  I honestly don't know the title or the artist, but the lyrics of my new favorite "on my way to work" song are about nothing being impossible for God....and about He holds my world in His hand.  Those are some pretty powerful statements that reminded me that nothing matters in this world without Him.  He is the reason to get up everyday, and face all that life throws our way.

This week in New York, I plan to explore multiple musical venues, genres, and performances.  Last night I went to Trinity church on Wall street, to hear Handle's Messiah.  I honestly just went to hear the Hallelujah choral song that mom used to play in our living room while she was working out to Charlene Prickett.  After the first two hours with no Hallelujah chorus, I was afraid I had made a terrible $30 mistake.  Finally, at the end of the second act, I got to hear exactly what I had come for and it was beautiful.

Tomorrow night I am going to hear Dave Kellan at Backfence in Greenwich Village.  Dave is a friend of a friend, and has played in Nashville many times.  The venue he is playing in is apparently listed in the book 1000 Places to See Before You Die.  I'm really excited about hearing him, and being at a legendary club in the village.

Finally, on Friday night I'm hoping to go to Bill's place in Harlem.  Apparently Bill is a world famous jazz musician and has opened a venue in his brownstone for Friday night performances only.  It always sells out, and is in his living room, so seating should be interesting.  Regardless, I am ready for a week of music in the city!

The "New York Moment"

New York is not an easy city to live in.  Everything is expensive, nothing about it is laid back, and you are in constant competition with people who are either your equals or superiors in talent and ambition.  It can be exhausting in so many ways, and there are times when you wonder if you have chosen wisely by making it your home.

And then you have a "New York moment"...

Such a moment confirms that your decision is probably one of the best of your life.  It can be anything from participating in the filming of a movie, to finding a fabulous new restaurant that was probably in a movie, or encountering a celebrity on the street.  These moments are distinctively unique to New York, and provoke thoughts of awe and wonder to a new resident.  They remove all doubt and make you think"so this is why I live here."

I've been really lucky to experience many New York moments since moving here.  Most recently (this evening actually), I was walking around in Greenwich village looking for the Chick-fil-a at NYU, and ran into Meg Ryan.  She passed me at the intersection of Broadway and Astor, and was with a man who I did not recognize.  She had her City of Angels hair-do, and really big lips.  Definitely not the same face as in You've Got Mail (one of my favorites).  But it was really cool, and totally made up for the fact that Chick-fil-a was closed.

Another World-not the soap opera

New York is filled with a plethora of sightseeing options, but none of them can quite compare to the happenings occurring daily on New York City public transit.  The next time someone asks me what they should see when they visit, in order to have a true NYC experience, I will direct them to the nearest 4,5,6,7,1,2,3,N,Q,R...etc...etc. You are assured the biggest bang for your buck in this whole other world, affectionately known as the subway.

I have visited many cities in the country (and world, for that matter) that have public transit, but none can quite compare to ours.  There are incredibly pleasant experiences, such as the one I had this afternoon.  While commuting to a client visit, a group of about six men started walking through the car, shaking money cans and causing a commotion.  The jaded almost-New Yorker in me just rolled my eyes, and kept talking to my colleague.  This type of scenario is usually followed by a speech requesting a monetary donation.  But instead, to my surprise, they started singing Christmas carols and they had unbelievable voices.  My coworker told me that they have actually make television appearances, and are fairly well known.

Tonight I sat across from a mother and her baby heading downtown from Morningside Heights/Harlem area.  It was endearing to watch them interact.  It looked as though she was on her way home from work (this was around 10 pm), and they were both equally ecstatic to see each other after being apart all day.  Sitting next to me during all this, was an elderly Asian man who found joy in making faces at the baby.  He, too, was on his way home from work and was carrying a bag full of Chinese newspapers.

The only thing that I find incredibly obnoxious is when people play on their phones NON STOP while riding the train.  I literally had to look away from a woman last week who was so obsessed with whatever she was doing on her phone, that she missed her destination.  I mean, can't you just stop looking at something electronic for a fifteen minute commute?  Bring a real book or magazine, listen to music, or here's a thought....maybe even have a conversation with someone next to you.   I bet when the first subway was built in 1904, people spoke to their neighbors, men gave their seats to women, and the floors were urine free.

NYC Holiday Season Part 1

When I realized that I wouldn't be able to afford the trip home for Thanksgiving, I was a tad upset.  However, when I got the news that one of my best friends from college would be here visiting her family, and invited me to join, I felt better.  But when we decided to attend the Macy's Thanksgiving day parade, I knew it would be worth the sacrifice!

All the locals here will tell you to avoid the parade, just like they say to avoid the lighting of the Christmas tree (which I will be attending tomorrow night) and New Years Eve in Times Square (which I did two years ago).  What's the point of living in this city if you don't partake in the holiday shinanigans, I always say.  Gina and I also went to the inflation celebration on Thanksgiving Eve, which takes place at the Natural History museum on Central Park West and 79th.

The parade was much better, in my opinion, because the floats were all bolted down the night before and the crowd was worse.  We got a great spot at the parade, right on the street, thanks to a lady from Georgia who muscled her way to the front as we trailed behind her.  We had front row seats to see Kanye West (everyone was yelling Taylor Swift!), Jessica Simpson (conveniently placed behind the Pillsbury Doughboy, which I thought was a bit cruel), Joan Rivers, Gladys Knight, and some guy who may or may not have been a Jonas.

Thanksgiving dinner with Gina's family took place in Stratford, Connecticut.  The food was amazing, and the game of spades was entertaining.  We did some black Friday shopping at Target the next day, and then I came back to the city to have dinner with the Brewers.  I have never seen so much food in this apartment, and I must say that I loved having it here.  A stocked refrigerator just makes you feel like you are home.  I was lucky enough this year to get two amazing Thanksgiving meals with some fabulous people!

The next morning, we all went to see the Radio City Music Hall Rockettes.  After it was over, I ran some errands and came back home to take a nap.  I was siked about dinner and the Georgia game that evening.  So siked, in fact, that I proceeded to throw up all over myself and Mrs. Brewer as we were exiting our elevator on the way to dinner.  Three times to be exact.  Needless to say, I had sprite for dinner and was in bed by 8.

Today I went to get lunch with a coworker, and was fondly reminded of an infamous Seinfeld episode.  We went to this place called Ashbys, where I excitedly got in the line for soup.  The gentleman taking orders was basically yelling at each person in line as they approached, so I had to be prepared.  There were around 20 different options, so I got nervous and just yelled out the first thing that came to mind..."Chicken Noodle!".  I then stepped aside quickly, just like the compliant patron that I am.  The sandwich guy was even worse.  When I requested a grilled cheese panini to go with my soup, he shouted "No panini today (for you)!"

And....SCENE!

Today was the final day of filming for our sequence in Man on a Ledge, and what a great experience this has been!  Not only did I get to meet Sam Worthington and Ed Harris, but I got to actually be featured today.  The assistant director pulled me out of a crowd, alone, and placed me directly in front of the camera.  And also by Kyra Sedgewick.  It was not a speaking part of course (apparently "y'all" and "fixin to" is frowned upon by Hollywood, unless of course you are in a remake of Steel Magnolias), but a featured role nonetheless.  I am basically a girl getting a hot dog, listening to her reporting her news story.  I get to put that on my resume, and hopefully get some additional features in future projects.

The casting company apparently did not hear my name correctly, because my call number was associated with the name "Darah Decker" for the entire duration of filming.  I respectfully reminded them each week that it was actually Sarah, but eventually gave up and went with it.  A few people said that Darah was more memorable, and that I should consider making it my stage name.  At the end of today, I requested a SAG waiver for it being misspelled, but apparently the production assistants didn't think I was serious.  I also got two referrals to this agent affectionately known as Desiree ,who actually does her job getting her people bookings.  And of course, the friends I made are priceless.  Looking forward to the future!

Life is good!

Hello blog family!  I have a few random thoughts to share, and also update you on my latest activities.

The commute home from work is so interesting.  I usually walk to either the Wall Street or Fulton Street 4/5 train, and it takes me anywhere between 20 and 30 minutes to get to my exit at Grand Central.  Occasionally I will stop at McDonalds for a large sweet tea, and if it's been a really long day, 3 chocolate chips cookies.  This costs a whopping $2.19, which is the best money I could spend after working 9 hours without much of a break.  

Once I make it out of Grand Central and to the street, I get to pretend I'm in a mosh pit at an Alice in Chains concert.  Not because the people I see look like the Alice in Chains type, but because they will body slam you if you so much as hesitate to move while on the sidewalk.  Once I pass Wendy's, I'm usually home free...at least until I turn down 47th street heading to my building.  

At this point, I get to pass the art studio.  It's basically an office sized space that hosts a different project or display every week.  Tonight they were blasting some eerie Friday the 13th-ish type music , and these two women were running back and forth to the window, first one and then the other.  They have strings of white yarn pouring from the entire ceiling too.  The whole spectacle is too bizarre to even write about.

Only a few more steps to the apartment, and I pass about four sushi restaurants, and a bar that always has at least ten Asian young professionals standing outside it.  What amuses me most is one of the guy's hair.  He looks just like Chozen from Karate Kid II.  He is usually standing near the psychic who works above the restaurant, and almost always asks me for a reading.  One day, I think I just might do it for kicks.

Work is so intense here.  People cram the amount of activities into one day, that used to take me a week at the bank.  No one really takes a lunch break, which has been a difficult adjustment to make.  But they are incredibly ambitious people, and take a lot of pride in their work and that rubs off quickly.  The sales process is definitely more direct and to the point, but relationships are still valued and acknowledged as the key to success.  I went on a business call yesterday with a senior manager in my group, who has been with the company for 27 years.  He was griping about how young people don't know the meaning of hard work, and also how the best way to do business is to always leave someone a pen or notepad with your company name on it.  I wanted to add that a gift basket is a good way to make a statement too (Office reference for those of you who don't watch it), but didn't think he would find that funny, so I refrained.

This past Monday night I was able to attend, on behalf of my company, the Financial Executives International Hall of Fame Gala.  Wooo...that's a mouth full.  Actually it was a black tie dinner, with me and about 200 other more advanced professionals in attendance.  We were celebrating the careers of two retirees.  One had been the CFO of Pepsi and the other the CFO of Exxon.  BIG TIME.  I got to wear a new purple ball gown, and eat really fancy food, which I was excited that I did not spill on my new purple dress!

Other than working like a crazy woman, I have been filming a movie on the weekends called Man on a Ledge.  Elizabeth Banks, Kyra Sedgewick, Ed Harris and Sam Worthington (Avatar man) are all in it, and we have been filming right outside the Roosevelt Hotel.  I have met Ed and Sam so far, which has been exciting.  This weekend should wrap up our scenes, and I'm glad because a 5 a.m. call time is getting a little old (we've been filming for the last two weekends).  My favorite part of this process (besides getting to be in a movie of course) is making friends with my fellow actors and getting paid to laugh with them all day.  

This upcoming week I get to see my beautiful friend Gina, and spend Thanksgiving with her family in Connecticut.  We will also be going to see the floats being inflated on Wednesday night, and then the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade on Thursday!  

My Pants Fit Again, My Pants Fit Again!

Praise the Lord, I don't have to buy another black suit!  I love the feeling of putting something on that you haven't been able to wear in a while, and having it fit perfectly.  All this walking is paying off after all.  Too bad I had that Five Guys for dinner tonight though.  Back to square one.

Week one of work is complete.  It was all training, and incredibly overwhelming.  I am thankful for all that I learned in my previous job, because I will definitely be using some of those techniques frequently at this one.  There are six people in my immediate department, and over fifty in my office.  They are all around my age, and a ton of fun!  Yesterday, we had a sales meeting in our satellite office which is located on the 36th floor at Penn Plaza.  The view from the conference room was unbelievable.  I could see all of downtown, even to the Statue of Liberty.  We all took pictures, which I will add to facebook.

I also got some great news yesterday!  I will be working on set of a major motion picture called Man on a Ledge, and we are filming for the next three weekends.  I don't know many of the details, except that my scenes will be outside, the money is good, and I get to work with one of my friends from the 30 Rock set.  I've been submitting to jobs on weekends only, so it looks like I'll be able to pursue this and work at the same time.  SO thankful for that!

Work and Work Out

I am exhausted!  Back to work after being off for two months takes a toll.  I'm all set up in my "office", which overlooks ground zero.  We are on the 21st floor, and I find myself staring out the window every five minutes.  I got my building badge and security pass today, so I am official!

No one takes a consistent lunch break here, and that has been a difficult adjustment to make.  Today I decided to go out and get a McDonalds sweet tea, which is only $1 and is definitely the best money I've spent in a long time.  Tomorrow I'll go with the other people on my team, who all seam to be really cool.  We are all around the same age, and from different places.

After I got off, I decided to check out the location for my gym on Wall Street.  It is three floors, and the interior walls are old oak boards and are gorgeous.  I spent the majority of my time on the 2nd floor, and as I was biking, noticed the New York Stock Exchange right outside of the window.  I had a very cool "New York" moment.

Although I am now working full time, I still submit myself for roles and extra work for nights and weekends.  Those are definitely few and far between, but I am not giving up on it.  I'll start to accrue vacation next month, so plan to take some days off if I am able to land some solid parts on weekdays.  But the bills must be paid for now!!!

Beach Day

Don't you love those days when you have absolutely nothing to do, and when you wake up you just decide to go to the beach???  I love that you can do that here.  The street was extra noisy this morning, and it actually woke me up for the first time in over a month.  I was in need of some quiet time, so I packed my bag and headed to Long Beach.  It took around 2 hours to get there, but it was all subway and bus, covered by my metro card.

The day was quite overcast and a tad chilly, but it was just the therapy I needed.  Walking on the beach always makes me feel like I can conquer anything.  I think I feel the closest to God there.  For some reason, I have been a little emotional lately.  That is probably not a shock to some of you, but I really haven't been since I got here.  I would imagine that watching Pride & Prejudice triggered it all.  I am completely happy with my life, and realize the blessings that I have in it.  But sometimes I would just like to know that somewhere, out there, is my Mr. Darcy.

After a very long period of prayer, I decided to walk through the little beach town.  I had a late lunch at this place called Paninis and Bikinis.  The food was amazing, and they gave me some free fresh baked cookies to top it all off.  I can definitely see myself going back there on a regular basis in the summer.  The beach is actually really nice, and has a boardwalk that goes for miles.  It's no Destin, but is certainly more upscale than most places I have been on the Atlantic.

Entertainment Value of a Treadmill

Today's entertainment was intended to be limited to the matinee I saw at 11:00 this morning.  However, I received a special treat afterwards at the gym, while watching a 60 year old woman on a treadmill.  I am not entirely sure of her playlist selection, but it's title was probably something along the lines of "Studio 54 Remix", or possibly even something more recent, like "Beyonce's Top 20".  Regardless, she was waving her hands in the air like she didn't care, and shaking her money maker all over that machine.  It was priceless.  I did love how much fun she was having.  She must be a regular, because no one else seemed phased by it.  I definitely think she missed her calling to be on Broadway.

I also was able to go to an orientation for New York Cares, which is a volunteer organization that serves as a liason between volunteers and non profits.  I am signed up to play games at a senior center in Brooklyn next weekend, and also to pass out candy to kids on Halloween at the Natural History Museum.  I am excited about both events! 

Support Anthropologie!

I had dinner with my friend Sara tonight, and she is one of my favorite people here!  She and I moved here at the same time, we share a name, and also similar tastes in food.  We decided to meet up in Union Square after she got off of work, and do what we do best...discover a random restaurant together.  Tonight's find was a little diner type place called Chat and Chew.  We initially picked it because it was the cheapest thing on the street, but am now convinced that it probably had the best food too.  We ordered the same thing : ), fried chicken, sweet potato fries, mashed potatoes, salads, and carrot cake...and only spent $50!  It was the closest thing to a home cooked meal that I have had here, and I left fat and happy.

During our conversation, she told me that she had been offered an official position at the place she had been interning.  She majored in textile design in college, but has been working in fashion design here.  Her company sells a lot of their product to Anthropologie, which I LOVE!  Apparently her boss recently saw a picture of a quilt Sara had designed and made for herself, and loved it.  She offered to pitch it to Anthropologie on her behalf.  So for those of you who are in need of bedding, you may have an opportunity to buy a piece designed by one of the most talented girls I know!

Totally random observation, but people do not seem to sweat here.  It was in the mid 70's the other day, and I noticed multiple people with heavy winter coats on, complete with scarves up to their ears.  It would've reminded you of a good ole fashioned Christmas Story swaddle.  And they were not perspiring.  I, on the other hand, was in a tank top, shorts and flip flops and was sweating like a 300 lb man who has just climbed ten flights of stairs.

Tomorrow I think I may see a movie (matinees run from 10 a.m.-noon, that's right), go to the gym (and try not to sweat), and attend a New York cares orientation.  It's similar to Hands on Nashville, which touches multiple outreach initiatives and charitable organizations.  Once I am oriented, I can begin volunteering for any group they represent, which is exciting!  I still want to work in an assisted living facility, so we'll see.

Procrastination Station

Ladies and gentlemen, I am finally catching up on my entries!  Now that I have some sort of routine in my schedule, I hope to be better about keeping it current.  Thanks to all of you who read it and for letting me know that you do!

The past three weeks have been filled with visits from some amazing friends, and also some adventures of my own.  I was able to take a little road trip with Meredith, to Boston, Plymouth, Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard and Newport, Rhode Island.  Our weather wasn't incredibly accommodating, but we made it work and were thankful for the one sunny day we had in Boston.  We were able to see some impressive architecture, such as the Breakers in Newport and gingerbread houses in MV.  We heard some fabulous music and met some amusing people.  Favorite spots were Harvard, Plymouth Plantation, the cranberry farm in Sandwich, MA (where we actually got to help with the harvest-side note, everyone should buy OceanSpray products from now on!), and all of Newport!

Lashonda, Jorie, Michelle and Laura also came up after I got back, and we TORE this city up!  If you want to see NYC, and you are on a limited timetable and strict budget, I now know how to make it all happen in just 48 short hours and on conservative funds. But be warned, you will be tired and your feet may be angry with you for weeks after.

Unfortunately, my two month vacation is about to come to an end next Monday, because I GOT A JOB!!!!!  I am super excited about this new chapter in my life, and am so thankful I found something I think I will love, and even more grateful it's not in banking.  So for my last week as a free woman, I intend to milk my touristy time for all it's worth by seeing some shows, spending a day in the park, touring the U.N., and of course sleeping in!

In preparation for my new job, I actually got to temp some last week.  It was quite an adjustment to get back into work mode, but I had an absolute blast.  I got to work at a public relations firm in SOHO, that specializes in beauty and fashion.  I made gift bags all week for every major magazine editor in town, including Joe Zee from Elle (for those of you who watch the City), and also Whitney Eve!!!!!  I definitely put a lot of attention into the detail of those bags for sure.  They set up my workstation in the back room, which contained racks upon racks of designer clothing and every beauty product you could imagine.  No one really talks to each other there, and they definitely don't take lunch breaks.  Serious business.  It was my own personal version of the Devil Wears Prada, and I was by far the largest woman in the office (aside from the pregnant receptionist).  I thoroughly enjoyed every moment!

I have been immensely blessed during this whole experience, and have made some memories I will keep with me forever.  I have started to make friendships here that already mean so much to me.  At the same time, I am reminded of all the people I love back home in Tennessee and Georgia.  I miss you guys so much, and look forward to coming home at Christmas!

P.S.  The 30 Rock episode I filmed a month ago will air this coming Thursday on NBC!!!!!

Addicted to Century 21

Not the real estate company....but only the greatest department store in the entire city!  If you know me at all, you understand how much I like bargain shopping.  It's almost like when a guy (or girl) hunts deer.  You spend hours looking for the right ones, and the satisfaction is unmatched when you find exactly what you are looking for after hunting all day.  Today, I might as well have killed a fourteen point buck.

I've obviously been doing my fair share of walking since I got here.  It reminds me of Europe.  And you would THINK that someone would lose weight because of it.  Oh no...I have done the opposite, just like in college.  When everyone else was gaining the freshman 15, I was losing it.  Only here, I can't stop eating all of this wonderful food.  While checking out at the grocery today, I realized that I had two boxes of cookies, three boxes of candy, and other random junk food (only because they were on sale-bargain shopping at its best).  The person next to me was purchasing nothing but fresh fruits and vegetables.  At least I'll be fat and happy.

Walking is an art form here.  I would most closely compare it to driving through downtown Atlanta on I-75.  If you are passing someone, you go to the left.  If you are walking slowly, it it courteous to take the right side of the sidewalk.  And then there are weavers, like myself.  Thankfully I haven't been flipped off yet, nor had anyone scream expletives at me.  It has been raining for days here, and walking with an umbrella is a tedious task.  Everyone has one, and they are all big enough to shade at least a small family of four.  So what do you do with an umbrella when the sidewalk is packed, and it is pouring down rain, you ask?  You hold it up as high over your head as you can, until you pass.  It is so awkward when someone is passing you, and you both go up at the same time.  I still haven't mastered the etiquette on that one.

Dating in New York is yet another daunting process that is somewhat different than what I am used to, but am picking up on quickly.  It is similar to the subway system.  Both are fast paced, and you better know where you want to go quickly before you board, otherwise you end up in a place you don't want to be.  Some "trains" look and smell more appealing than others.  But the greatest similarity is that if you miss one...don't worry!  There's another one just around the corner, that is probably better anyway. So my approach has been to just make friends, plain and simple.  Drama-free is better for me!

My day with Tina Fey

Today was my first 30 Rock shoot, and it was an unforgettable experience.  I was a patron in a bar/restaurant, along with about 70 other people.  I didn't get a speaking part, but then again only two people did (one being Ms. Fey).  They did ask me to walk across the room a few times, which was actually a pretty big deal!   I also got to stand right next to Tina in the beginning of the scene, and we got to speak in between takes.  I was curious to see if she would be as witty in person, and she did not disappoint.  It should air either the first or second Thursday in November.  I will definitely update when I know.

The job interview this morning went extremely well, and I have a second appointment with them tomorrow.  It's a business development position with a company called K Force, and it is a block from Wall Street.  I was impressed with the sales manager, hiring manager, and their corporate culture.  This may be my meal ticket!

Retreat to Long Island

I was privileged to be able to visit the Timothy Hill Children's Ranch this weekend, in Riverhead, New York (Long Island-near East Hampton).  Jerry and Fern Hill run this home for boys, and are amazing Christian people.  We have several mutual friends, so they invited me to spend the weekend there.  They cooked wonderful meals for me, showed me around the ranch, went shopping in their thrift store (which was AWESOME), and just provided some very much needed hospitality and kindness.  One of my favorite parts was the view of the Long Island Sound, which is a short drive from their home.

On my way home, I needed to change trains at Ronkonkoma.  As I stepped out of my seating area into the aisle on this double decker vessel, I didn't see the step down and fell flat on my face.  It was a very hard fall, and this man came running from the front to help me up.  My pride was hurt worse than my body, but it still was pretty painful.

After making it to Penn Station, I was walking down the street towards my apartment, and saw about 100 people behind police barricades taking pictures of a car.  Since I wasn't part of the pack, and was actually about ten feet from the car and about thirty feet closer than them, I started taking pictures as well.    I still have never heard of these people, but apparently it was Kofi Kingston and CM Punk from the WWE Smackdown Tour.  CM and I were standing right next to each other, as he was photographing some groupie with his name across her chest.

Last night I went to dinner and a movie with some new friends here.  I had the best bar-b-que sandwich and sweet potato fries that I have ever eaten.  The company was never better, the movie was entertaining, and it was my first fun girls night out!  After church this morning, I went to the Plaza Hotel to get my hair cut by this amazing girl named Leah.  She did a fabulous job, and I absolutely loved the atmosphere.

In an attempt to avoid laughing at a comment about a guy in church looking like John Malkovich in Of Mice and Men, I started reading around in Matthew.  I found the story of Jesus walking on water in chapter 14, and read it differently than I ever have before.  I love it when that happens...when something you could basically recite by memory, takes on a whole new meaning and application because of the situation you are in at the moment.  Jesus tells us to trust him, and that he will take care of us.  The second we start to fear elements of the world, and think we are self sufficient, is the second when we start to drown.  It's not until we trust in his leadership and direction that we are picked back up again.  Remembering that during this job search has been a challenge, but I know that he will provide.  As he always has...

My neighbor, Barak Obama

What a week!  I think of things every day that I want to write about, but am having trouble finding the time to do it.  Hopefully, I can capture it all in this entry by going day by day.

Last Friday night I had the privilege of attending the private, in-home concert of pianist Elaine Kwon in the upper west side.  Elaine will be performing at a benefit for Best Buddies at Carnegie Hall in a few weeks.  For those of you who don't know, I was on the board for BB in Nashville, and am now an active participant in the NYC chapter.  Needless to say, she was absolutely amazing and I got to meet some wonderful people there.

Saturday was spent cleaning the apartment, preparing for Jennifer's arrival.  I also found the time to visit the Guggenheim during the "pay what you can" period which starts at 5:45.  Of course, my favorite pieces were those of Van Gogh and Monet.  On the way home, I made a stop at Dylan's candy bar, which is three floors of any candy you could ever hope to find.  I saw one kid almost pass out with pleasure.

Jennifer and I had a wonderful time together over the weekend.  We had great food and did some serious shopping.  Sunday was Central Park, brunch at this fabulous Mexican restaurant with friends, Chinatown, and a broadway show!  The Chinatown adventure was classic.  We got to experience two different methods of purchasing illegal bags.  The first started when a woman whispered Prada in my ear.  We expressed interest, she phoned someone, who then came and took us across the street to someone else.  They instructed us to wait under a red awning, and when the coast was clear, we were led downstairs into a basement filled with knock-offs.  The second salesman decided to show us pictures of their product on the street, and retrieved them from goodness knows where once we had selected our choices.  I also thought a woman was screaming Armani at me, which actually turned out to be "massages!", which we got for $5 each.  Later that evening, we got to see Next to Normal which was an intensely emotional show.  I loved every minute of it!

Monday was spent shopping, visiting a rooftop in Times Square (AMAZING!), lunch at the Boathouse in Central Park (EXPENSIVE!), and a Yankees game (THEY WON!).  We definitely packed a lot in, but had a blast.

This week has been the General Assembly of the United Nations, which is only a few blocks away from where I live.  It has all been a bit chaotic, especially since Barak Obama stayed at the Waldorf Astoria (also just a few blocks away).  Bill Clinton was also staying two blocks from here.  Streets have been blocked off, police have been everywhere, and all 192 members have definitely spent their free time touring our neighborhood.  I ran into the president and prime minister from Rwanda in the customer service line at Best Buy.  If I would've known that was going to happen, I would've dressed up a bit more.

Clothing is a huge deal here.  I saw a guy recently who was wearing capri pants, and pulling them off better than I ever could.  I am aware that I am not the most fashionable person, but have always thought I looked decent.  When I walk down the street here, I feel like a train wreck.  I found the most amazing store yesterday, which sells designer clothing at discount prices.  I spent about two hours just taking it all in, and ending getting a few necessary items.  It was magical!

This afternoon I was working out at my gym, doing ab exercises, when Jason Hoppy walked by.  For those of you who don't know, he is the new husband of Bethenny Frankel (formerly on real housewives of NY).  I LOVE LOVE LOVE Bethenny's Getting Married, so I definitely recognized him.  We did abs side by side, and I picked up some good tips!

Rats and Dead Cats

No one told me that they had tornadoes here!  Actually, I was taking a nap when the inclement weather was occurring in Brooklyn and Queens.  Slept right through it.  Best nap of my life.


This morning I had an appointment with another staffing agency.  While I was waiting in the lobby for my recruiter to call me back, I eavesdropped on a conversation between another recruiter and his recruit.  Actually, they were talking very loudly, so I pretty much just sat there and took it all in. Apparently, this man had broken some dishes and taken some food at a job they had assigned him to, and was being reprimanded for it.  I felt really sorry for him, because he seemed so nice.  Goodness knows I've done both of those things while catering.  


The ensuing topic was cat related.  Apparently, this recruiter has a dear friend who had a cat of 25 years that recently passed away.  When he went to console her, there he found her dead cat, on a pillow, in the middle of the living room.  Now, normally this would be a bit shocking.  But I have known some people to host feline funerals in the past, so I was unaffected.  The woman next to me, however, thought it was hilarious, because she proceeded to laugh out loud.  AWKWARD!


Next, I headed to an audition for a new Denzel Washington movie.  I thought I did very well, and apparently so did the agent, because he asked me to send him additional head shots.  The only criticism he had was my accent.  At his suggestion, I will be signing up for voice and diction lessons.


On my way home, I saw my first rat in the subway.  No, make that two rats.  They were definitely over a foot long each, and carrying their daily meals away before the next train arrived.  I wanted to vomit.

About to head to a private concert on the upper west side, at the home of a reputable pianist.  Excited!

God Bless America and the Chick-fil-A Cow

Today was a gorgeous day in New York City!  The summer to fall transition is becoming apparent, and I needed a coat for the first time tonight.  I've been venturing out a lot more this week, and am becoming increasingly comfortable traveling independently.  Although, I am excited that Jennifer will be here soon, so I can share some of these moments with a dear friend!

This morning was pretty much my standard routine.  The two most exciting parts of my day took place late this afternoon and evening.  I was invited to be an audience member of a television show (which I cannot reveal the name of), that had a fabulous host (whom I cannot reveal the name of), and a highly entertaining dialogue (which of course I cannot speak of).  But I did get paid to participate, and met some really cool people during the process.  One guy was from Atlanta, and went to school in Murfreesboro.  Such a small world!

After the taping, I decided I was in desperate need of some down home, finger lickin', heartburn inducin', SOUTHERN fried food.  And I had HEARD that there was a Chick-fil-a somewhere on the NYU campus.  Since I was not far from that area, I went on my search.  Low and behold, they do have a very limited version of one in the food court, and I was so happy that I almost kissed the woman handing me my Polynesian sauce.  The best part was that a sandwich, fries and drink only cost me $6.30, which is what it cost in Franklin!  Praise the Lord, I have found my official Wednesday night dining selection!

Observations

Although there are over seven million people living in this city, I have actually seen someone twice!  He was an elderly man that resembled Bilbo Baggins, and was absolutely precious.  He was sitting across from me on the train back from Coney Island, sleeping, and I was able to snap his picture.  While walking home from the Shake Shack later that evening, there he was again.  Just the sight of him brightened my heart.

People watching could be considered an Olympic sport here.  You get it all.  And I find that to be one of my favorite parts.  No one looks or sounds the same, but I think they all know I'm not from around here.  Maybe it's the fact that I actually smile, or make eye contact them when passing on the street.  If you live here, what is there to be mad about?  While in a board meeting today for a non-profit I was involved in while in Nashville (and am now involved in here), a gentleman commented on how much he liked my accent.  I said "thank you", and was thinking "what accent!" Heaven forbid he ever meet someone from Sante Fe, TN.

I felt exhausted for the first time today, just listening to everyone talk.  I usually can keep up with anything fast pace, but I do need a break once in a while.  From the time I was able to speak, words were flying out of my mouth at the speed of light.  And when you have a speech impediment, that isn't pretty. But everything about life here is at mach speed.  Whether you are walking down the street, in conversation with someone, or even trying to eat a quick bite, it's GO-GO-GO-GO: STOP: and then repeat.  I've had three cups of coffee today: THREE.  This city is not going to help my addiction, and I cannot even THINK of detoxing myself ever again.

The subway was another interesting experience today.  On my way to meet a friend for coffee, I was sitting across from a young man with Turrets who appeared to be listening to Eminem on his Ipod.  I was just waiting for an expletive to fly out of his mouth from any one of the song choices, but alas, he kept them to himself.  Then, a young girl decided to position herself right in front of my seat, while grasping the bar above my head.  I would have been fine with this, except she must have forgotten to shave for a while, because I'm pretty sure I measured 3 inches of hair dangling above me.  Finally, when exiting, or attempting to exit rather, I was fondly reminded of a scene from Crocodile Dundee where Sue finds Mick in the sub station.  The same crowd was there today, only no one was yelling out personal information and feelings from one end to the other.  However, that is how I have officially decided I would like to be proposed to someday.
  

One week anniversary! A.K.A. I miss crickets.

It is so hard to believe it has only been one week.  I feel like I've been running a marathon, constantly on the go. But that really isn't much different from how my life has been everywhere else I have lived.

Overall, this week has been unbelievably amazing beyond my wildest dreams!  I do, however, have one complaint.  Horns.  I really don't understand why every cab driver feels the need to honk theirs every five minutes.  And then there's the "honk off".  This is when two cars honk at each other at an intersection, to see who can last the longest.  I wish I knew what the prize was.  I definitely feel that it should be illegal to honk unless someone is in danger.  They should be fined for it.  I think this city would be a much happier place if that were the case.  I really do miss hearing crickets outside my window.

Other than that, I have nothing negative to say.  Everyone I have met has been extremely warm and friendly, and I am lucky to have met some amazing people so early on!  Thanks to my friends and family back home for making a lot of these connections happen!

Today was a good day.  I received a call from the agent I met with on Saturday, who informed me that they do want to represent me, and would be calling me soon for placements.  They have done work on Gossip Girl, NCIS, 30 Rock, and other well known shows, commercials and movies.  I also had a second interview, that went extremely well.  After the gym, I got dressed and went to the upper east side for dinner with a friend of a friend.  She was absolutely fabulous, and I so look forward to hanging out with her again!  We went to a Thai restaurant in her neighborhood, and I very much enjoyed the food, the atmosphere and especially the Eva Cassidy tracks they were playing in the background.

Excited for tomorrow!  Week 2...HERE WE GO!

Spending 9/11 in NYC

I didn't really know what to expect out of today.  There seemed to be extra security coverage in the subways.  Every police officer I saw was in their dress uniform.  People even seemed to be cordial and polite.  I debated on whether or not to go to ground zero for the memorial service, and opted out because I didn't want to go to something like that alone.  Maybe next year, for the ten year anniversary.  I did notice a fire station in SOHO, and their truck out front that honored all of those from their unit lost on 9/11.  The captain was standing in the middle of the street, somber and silent, staring at the truck.  It was an incredibly touching moment.  His men were asking him if he needed anything, caring for him almost like he was their invalid grandparent.  I cannot imagine what goes through his mind every year on this day.

I decided to attend an open audition that I received a call about yesterday, first thing this morning instead.  This was my very first solo subway experience, and it went fairly smoothly.  After googling my subway directions (who knew you could do that), I was on my way.  The building that I was supposed to go to was right next to Macy's.  Upon entering, the doorman gave me the appropriate floor, and I proceeded to get on the elevator with a painter who was working on the interior hallways.  His accent was German, I think.  We chatted briefly, at which point he asked me if I was going to 203.  After I confirmed, he said "you no need to go there...they charge money for classes...I take you somewhere legitimate".  Well...ok my new German friend....we go to 4 instead.  He led me to the door of this office,  busted in like he owned the place, told the guy I was his friend and that I was here to get an agent.  Apparently the owner did him a favor by letting me come in, so I was very appreciative.  They do placements for 30 Rock, Gossip Girl, NCIS, and multiple commercial projects.  I read a script, gave him a head shot, and he asked me to come back for a second round on Monday!

The Georgia game started at noon today, so I hurried over to Firefly, which is a bar in SOHO where the UGA alumni association host games every week.  Food was amazing, and it was actually a pretty swanky atmosphere.  I sat in between a girl from Eagles Landing (small world!) and some men from Cartersville who were in town for business.  The dawgs didn't play so well, but it was nice to hear a familiar accent, talk to someone who actually knew what Chick-fil-a was, and feel like I had a little piece of home.

I had seen a train in my last subway station that had a final destination of Coney Island, so I figured...why not!  We had gorgeous weather, and after seeing Two Weeks Notice a few years ago, I've always wanted to walk on that boardwalk.  It was everything I had imagined!  Cheap hot dog places, kids running all over the place, and bird poop on the only bench that wasn't occupied.  I walked on the "beach" for about ten minutes, talked to mom, and drank my favorite...Dunkin Donuts coffee with caramel!  It was the perfect ending to an afternoon!

The train ride home is about an hour.  When I was fumbling around in my purse, my Ipod apparently dropped to the ground, unnoticed.  A young girl sitting across from me jumped up to pick it up for me.  Not ALL New Yorkers are rude.  Actually, many of them are hospitable and humble.

Tonight I joined five of my old coworkers from Regions in Murfreesboro for dinner.  They are visiting the city for a long weekend.  We went to the Shake Shack in Madison Square Park, and it was YUMMY!  I had a cheeseburger and vanilla milkshake, and it was the best $9 I've spent on food here yet.

Tomorrow is church, Broadway on Broadway (FREE!), and more time with my Tennessee people.  Hard to believe it's almost been a week...but also that it has ONLY been a week!  I'm exhausted!

Fashion Night Out!

Today was FABULOUS!  After my morning routine of job searching, emailing, facebooking, coffee drinking, and staring at the man two floors below me in the office building across the street (not a good stare-he sort of reminds me of John Goodman), I got ready for my first interview.  I only had about 45 minutes to shower, get dressed and get a few resumes printed off at the FedEx Kinkos across the street.  And would you believe that I pulled it all off and was only three minutes late!  I've been waiting until the last minute my entire life.

I initially went to see the good folks at Robert Half to find a temp job, which still may happen.  However, they ended up wanting to interview me for a position with their company as a recruiter/business development manager.  SO...my second interview with them is Monday!  If they can meet my salary requirement, then I may just take it.  Not exactly what I was hoping for, but a great company with fantastic benefits and an even better network.

Next on the list was my very first audition!  I searched a million ads on craiglist last night for open calls, and found three that I applied for.  The one today was for a film about Tupac Shukar.  Yes, yes...I know what you are thinking.  This is probably not what you or I had in mind when I decided to take a shot at this.  But I DO have his book, and thought it would at least be a great story to tell the grandkids.  I went to the audition site which was in Times Square, with thirty minutes to spare.  But alas, they had already left for the day.  The man at the front desk suggested I leave a head shot, which I did, so we'll see if they call tomorrow.

Now, to the best part of my day.  Tonight is the second annual New York Fashion Night Out, which I learned about on a great little website , www.nycgo.com/free.  FREE being the optimal word.  Basically stores and boutiques in all five boroughs host customers with free giveaways, refreshments, and star spottings.  On my way to Bergdorf-Goodman, Barney's and Chanel, I was standing at a red light...and there beside me stood Jon Voight...big daddy to Ms. Angelina Jolie.  I wanted to make some witty reference to the Seinfeld episode that refers to his car, pencil, or biting Kramer.  But I refrained, and just asked him for a photo.  He was very kind and agreed to it as he wrapped himself around the light pole.  Silly Jon Voight.

Bergdorf-Goodman was absolutely insane, with security everywhere and a line outside that made a Six Flags wait seem short.  But I was there, so I stood in it and it actually moved pretty quickly.  And boy, am I glad I did.  Both Mary J. Blige and Sarah Jessica Parker were there in random sections of the store, to be photographed.  I got fairly close to Mary, but didn't even get a picture of Sarah because of the massive amounts of beautifully dressed onlookers.  BUT, we were within twenty feet of each other, and that will be good enough for now.

I have high hopes for tomorrow.  I have another audition with an agent at 11, followed by the Georgia/South Carolina game at a restaurant/bar in Chelsea with the group affectionately known as the "Bulldog Club".  Then I plan to meet up with some friends from Regions in Murfreesboro, who are up visiting for the weekend.

With each day that goes by here, my gratitude to God for making this possible grows stronger.  I never want to forget that it is HIM that has made this happen, and that He is blessing me with some unforgettable memories, new friendships, and hopefully a job soon!  I'm sure after the honeymoon period, I may become callous from the excitement.  While walking home from a Bible study last night, we decided to just walk across the Brooklyn Bridge instead of taking the subway.  As we crossed over, looking at the skyline of my new home, I just couldn't believe it!  This is my DREAM...and it is coming true.  I am so thankful, and I would dare say, already head over heels in love with this place!

Adventures in midtown

Yesterday was a great day!  After my morning routine of checking emails and getting ready, I took the 103 bus straight up 3rd avenue (bus stop is right outside of my building) and got off at 85th st (started at 48th).   I prefer the bus, because I really like seeing everything that is near me.  I didn't even realize that if you walk one block west of my building, you have a perfect view of the Chrysler building, only a few blocks south.

After getting off at 85th, I wandered over to Central Park.  At this point, you are in the middle of the park and right next to the lake (which is actually a reservoir).  I decided to stop and have the lunch that I packed right next to the water.  It was such a gorgeous day, so I decided to walk the entire 1.5 miles around the water.  I met some really nice German tourists, who agreed to take my picture.  As I rounded the last half mile, I had my Ipod in and didn't hear the 80 year old woman running around on my right.  When she screamed "EXCUSE ME" in her thick accent, I jumped and maybe even screamed.  This guy walking in the other direction got a kick out of that.

When I left the park, I thought I was on the west side of town, but actually was still on the east.  I'll figure this all out eventually, and I guess the best way is just to wander.  I ended up on Museum Mile, and decided to go to the Metropolitan Museum of Art.  I had never been there before, and I'm not a huge museum person, but I actually loved it.  My favorite wings were the Musical Instruments room in the American Wing, and of course the European Art wing.  I LOVE Van Gogh, and I could look at his paintings for hours.

After leaving the museum, I met Brian and his coworker, Carlos, at the New York Sports Club.  Carlos wanted to transfer his gym membership to me (so I could keep his rate), so we did the swap.  I had to pay a $39 transfer fee, didn't have to sign a contract, and will be paying $60 a month for a membership to any of it's multiple locations around the city.  Normal membership is $90 a month, so I was excited!

The only "rude" person I have encountered so far was on the bus on the way home from the museum.  A man tapped me on the arm and told me to get out of my seat.  I got pretty ticked about it, until I realized he was telling me that so a handicapped woman could sit down.  Then I just felt bad.  :  )

Last night I went to dinner at the Tibetan kitchen with a guy named Max, who dated a very good friend of mine in Nashville while he was at Vanderbilt.  He is from here, and it was nice to talk with someone who knows all about the area.  We had a great time, and I got some good tips.

Today will be spent in the apartment in a pretty intense job search.  I'm hoping something will come along soon, because at this point, I would really like to stay for at least a year and give it a fair shot.  So far, it has been absolutely amazing!

First Day in NYC!

Moving day is OVER!  It was pretty traumatic.  I found this company (First Class American Movers-Jersey) online and was highly impressed with them in the initial booking process.  The saleswoman (Leslie) was very pleasant until I booked, gave my $70 deposit, and committed to a move date.  After that, it was all down hill.  The night we spent in Martinsburg, WV, I decided to check the BBB on them, and they were rated D+.  NO JOKE!  When dad and I arrived at their office, she said the guys were not available until hours later, wanted to pack the truck tonight and move me in the next day, and had the shadiest office I have ever seen.  Needless to say, I canceled, found some legitimate movers and got it all in around 5:30…45 minutes to spare before the U.S. Open!

Brian took me as a “moving-in” present, and although I knew nothing about tennis, the experience was awesome!  We took the train to Queens where Flushing Meadows is located, to see the match between Roger Federer and Jergen Melzer.  Among several of the stars in the audience were Gwen Stefani, Gavin Rossdale, Ashlee Simpson, and Cameron Diaz.  The stadium was gorgeous, the weather was perfect, and the company was never better!

This morning I woke up to the melodic tones of taxi horns and transmissions outside my window.  But I actually did sleep until 9:00 through all of the morning rush.  After spending the morning unpacking my room and settling in, I made the trek to the grocery…just a block away.  I ended up spending $45 on items that would’ve normally cost $30 at Publix.  Nothing really shocked me except the cereal.  Cheerios were $5 a box, and there are no off brands.  I’m going to have to get creative with my meals, for sure.

After shopping and eating lunch, I wandered around midtown for a few hours, ending up at the New York Public Library.  As I entered, I couldn’t help but laugh to myself and hope with all of my heart to see Mr. Bookman.  I enjoyed the peace of the reading room for about an hour, then headed back home. 

All in all, a pretty uneventful day compared to yesterday.  Tomorrow I plan to get a gym membership, buy some kitchen items, and find a retirement home to volunteer at.  Hopefully I’ll get to meet up with some people this week who I have been introduced to online.  I need some friends here.

As I sit in the window of the Starbucks across from my apartment writing on my MAC (just like Carrie Bradshaw), I have so many thoughts running through my head.  The people walking by all look so different.  Old, young, gorgeous, not so gorgeous…you get everything here.  The girl next to me sounds just like Daniel from Karate Kid.  They must be from the same town in New Jersey. 

Make no mistake about it, I am really glad to be here.  But I still can’t believe I gave up central heating and air for Central Park, a large townhome for the largest city in the country, and sweet tea for SOHO.  But on the other hand, I gave up being solo single for Saturday Night Live,  Regions Bank for Radio City Music Hall, and country music for China Town!

NYC! Chapter 1

September 5, 2010

If you would have asked me one year ago if I would be moving to Manhattan, I would have laughed in your face.  I was going to CALIFORNIA baby!!!  Actually I was about to take my inaugural trip to scout things out, do some interviewing, meet some BLB’s (barely legal boys), and enjoy myself immensely.  The move was planned for January, and it couldn’t get here fast enough.  But that did not turn out to be my story…

I don’t know if it was just coincidence, or God’s providence, that a certain ex came back into my life around the exact time I was receiving a job offer in Santa Monica.  I had been preparing my mind for this move for months, and then he shows up.  It was probably the only thing that could’ve kept me from going, and it definitely did.  When that relationship did not work out, I told myself that I was not going to ignore or reason my way out of my next opportunity.  And here I am…

My dream has been to move somewhere BIG.  Somewhere that takes guts and grit.  London, Denver, Charleston, and Los Angeles have all been on my list, but apparently God decided I should go all out with this one.  I want to audition for a play.  I want to be able to travel to major northeastern U.S. cities.  I want to have access to all of the culture and exposure that is available in the Big Apple. 

I have no idea what this experience will bring, but I am convinced that it cannot be bad.  Even if I get mugged, lose all of my money, get hit by a taxi, or get my heart broken by Broadway’s next big thing, at least I will have pursued a dream, and that alone makes me a success.  I know many people who never get the chance to do something like this, and I know how blessed I am to be able to.

So look out NYC!  I know who I am.  I am happy with who that is.  I hope you’ll like it too.  But if you don’t, I’ll still be me.  And THAT is the most rewarding realization a girl can come to.

SBD