Relationships & the power of "POOF! Be Gone!" (ACHTUNG SERIES )

For some reason my blogs on relationships seem to garner the most attention, responses, emails and comments lately… I lamented about this, but have decided perhaps I’ll continue further discussion on this topic for the next little while… Personally, these are harder blogs to write, but I’ll roll with it.  (Ironically, I am participating in a Bachelor/Bachelorette auction for the Canadian Centre of Abuse and Awareness this Thursday, February 3, 2011…. If you’re in the area come out and support this cause.)

Monday's Music Lyrics - Irreplaceable

It’s disturbing to me how many people are willing to settle when it comes to relationships.  We have only this life, and yet some people will marry or date for the sake of being with someone before taking a moment to decide what it is they really need and want from a person.

I am old fashioned (in some ways) and believe a man should pursue a woman... Personally, I will not chase a guy, and find nothing as endearing as when a man is smitten by a woman…. But, that’s my bag…

I also believe that it’s human nature to desire a relationship.  But, my question is, at what cost?  I would rather be fabulously single than to have a settling relationship.  It took me some time to realize this, but the truth is, people need to recognize and KNOW their own worth, before demanding another person to value them.  And I’m not talking about arrogance, but rather self-appreciation and a deep rooted confidence.   If more people recognized their worth, less people would stand for someone not giving them what they need in a relationship.  In fact, you’re not going to settle for just any relationship.  You’re going to want the BEST because you know YOU ARE THE BEST!  As cliché as it is, people are like buses, there is always another one around the corner.  And the time you waste with the wrong person is time lost with being with the RIGHT person!

And if you’re single, NOW is the time to take a moment and UNDERSTAND how awesome you are.  Make that commitment that not just anybody will do.  Know what you want.  And don’t get caught up in the idea of what someone COULD be.  Take them at face value.  And ladies, if a man isn’t giving you the attention you deserve – such as calling you (for no reason), making plans to be with you, initiating interaction, making time for you even if he's busy (and texting DOES NOT count!!!!), LET HIM GO.  And for the men out there, if you are dating a woman who doesn’t recognize and appreciate you, you might have to LET HER GO… or as I like to say – Throw that fish back in the sea!  (Poof! Be Gone!)  Lastly, if you are with someone incredible, NEVER take them for granted.  Let them know how much you do appreciate them! (Obviously, communicating your issues are essential before POOFING someone.)

I like the song “Irreplaceable” because it demonstrates a woman taking a stand and realizing she can do better than what she is getting from her relationship (and I hope anyone in her situation would have the courage to do the same).  I played it to my sister and she thought it sounded like a break up song… I actually find it a song of strength and affirmation that if someone isn’t giving you what you deserve they are replaceable…. It’s that simple!

Life is meant to be abundant! We are all amazing (in our own ways), and everyone deserves someone who recognizes that. Don’t settle in your job, ambitions, and certainly don’t settle in relationships!

Never Settling,

Nicole

Irreplaceable by Beyonce

Songwriters: Lind, Espen; Smith, Shaffer; Knowles, Beyonce; Bjorklund, Amund; Eriksen, Mikkel S; Hermansen, Tor Erik;

To the left, to the left
To the left, to the left
To the left, to the left

Everything you own in the box to the left
In the closet that's my stuff, yes
If I bought it please don't touch

And keep talking that mess, that's fine
But could you walk and talk at the same time?
And it's my name that is on that tag
So remove your bags let me call you a cab

Standing in the front yard telling me
How I'm such a fool, talking about
How I'll never ever find a man like you
You got me twisted

You must not know 'bout me
You must not know 'bout me
I could have another you in a minute
Matter fact he'll be here in a minute, baby

You must not know 'bout me
You must not know 'bout me
I can have another you by tomorrow
So don't you ever for a second get to thinking you're irreplaceable

So go ahead and get gone
And call up that chick and see if she's home
Oops, I bet ya thought that I didn't know
What did you think I was putting you out for?

Because you was untrue
Rolling her around in the car that I bought you
Baby you dropped them keys
Hurry up before your taxi leaves

Standing in the front yard telling me
How I am such a fool, talking about
How I'll never ever find a man like you
You got me twisted

You must not know 'bout me
You must not know 'bout me
I can have another you in a minute
Matter fact he'll be here in a minute, baby

You must not know 'bout me
You must not know 'bout me
I'll have another you by tomorrow
So don't you ever for a second get to thinking you're irreplaceable

So since if I’m not your everything
How about I'll be nothing, nothing at all to you
Baby I won't shed a tear for you, I won't lose a wink of sleep
'Cause the truth of the matter is replacing you is so easy

To the left, to the left
To the left, to the left
To the left, to the left
Everything you own in the box to the left
To the left, to the left
Don't you ever for a second get to thinking you're irreplaceable

You must not know 'bout me
You must not know 'bout me
I can have another you in a minute
Matter fact he'll be here in a minute, baby

You must not know 'bout me
You must not know 'bout me
I can have another you by tomorrow
So don't you ever for a second get to thinking, baby

You must not know 'bout me
You must not know 'bout me
I can have another you in a minute
Matter fact he'll be here in a minute

You could pack all your things, we're finished
(You must not know 'bout me)
'Cause you made your bed, now lay in it
(You must not know 'bout me)
I can have another you by tomorrow
Don't you ever for a second get to thinking you're irreplaceable

Helping to Raise Money for the Canadian Centre for Abuse Awareness, as a Bachelorette

 PRESS RELEASE -- 

 Nicole Forrester, High Jump (Athletics) Olympian, 2010 Commonwealth Gold Medalist and 7-Time Canadian Champion will be up for auction as a bachelorette in support for the Canadian Center for Abuse Awareness.  The inaugural Eligible Inc. Bachelor & Bachelorette Charity Auction takes places on February 3rd, 2011at the Capitol Event Theatre in Toronto, Ontario.

Twenty-one famous bachelors and bachelorettes will be auctioned. The event will be hosted by four-time Olympian Brian Stemmle.  Dream date packages may include dinner, entertainment, great life experiences, exceptional destinations and many other desirable gifts.

Forrester’s dream date package includes the opportunity to train with her for the day, Commonwealth Games paraphernalia, autographed flag by Canadian national team athletes, exclusive tickets to the Toronto International Film Festival (provided by VISA), a pair of Oakley sunglasses (provided by Oakley) as well as, a fitness training package provided by Striation 6...and possibly more!

This event of the season will also feature guest appearances and autographs by Jessie S and Craig M from the hit reality Television series on ABC “The Bachelor:.

For more information
To find out more about the Bachelor & Bachelorette Charity Auction, please visit http://www.eligiblebachelorauction.ca/
http://www.ccfaa.com/ or over the phone at 905-967-0687.

About the Canadian Centre for Abuse Awareness
The Canadian Centre for Abuse Awareness is a national charitable organization that has served Canadians since 1993.  The Centre's madate is to significantly reduce the incidence and impact of abuse through education and public awareness.  CCAA operates solely on private donations with no sustaining funds from any government body.  Proceeds raised fromt he event will be donated to the charity.  To learn more, please visit http://www.ccfaa.com/.

Daytripping: St. Helena in the Napa Valley



Vintage Home in St. Helena      



 Living in Northern California allows for a depth of experience I sometimes take for granted. I live in Sacramento, a city with more trees in the downtown and midtown areas than any other city in the nation. It encourages an abundance of sidewalk cafes  and fosters those human connections recently discussed on Oprah that promote happiness. It is a cozy, yet vibrant place to live.

And then there are the Sierra Nevada mountains, home to Lake Tahoe and more  world class skiing than anyone could ever need. San Francisco is a daily commute for some, and the dramatic California coast is less than two hours away. We have the Amador wine country in the Sierra foothills to the East and the lush Napa Valley to the West.

Daytripping is easy and rewarding...and something I can't get enough of. I mentioned last week a day trip with my daughters to the Napa Valley, and St. Helena was on our itinerary.

One of my favorite stops is Vintage Home. A home goods store packed with style, Vintage Home always make me yearn for my own little cottage in the valley where I could cook and have friends share a bit of wine and a round of boche ball. 

Caldwell Snyder Gallery, St. Helena

 Caldwell Snyder is a contemporary art gallery on the main street that is always fun to wander through. They have a sister gallery in San Francisco, and they are both fabulous! If you are looking for a Valentine's weekend getaway and are considering the wine country, Caldwell Snyder is hosting what will be a very fun event on Feb. 12 called Cameo Rocks. Wine, Cocktails, and other sweet treats! Check out more about the gallery HERE and more details about the event benefiting the Cameo Cinema Community Arts HERE.  

Martin Showroom, St. Helena

 I never pass through St. Helena with out stopping by designer Erin Martin's atelier. Always full of vigorous creativity and wit, it never fails to inspire me. You may remember her contribution to the Elle Decor Showhouse HERE. More info about Erin's Showroom HERE. 

Olivier, St. Helena

 Are you a lover of food, and by definition, that would include anything made or dipped in olive oil? Then a little hop into Olivier would be a must. Charming and friendly, this shop has olive oil tastings that are to die for. Never miss it when passing through....just a suggestion.



Olivier photo from Olivier website



After all that shopping, we were hungry!! We stopped in at the Market Restaurant for a little brunch.

Market Restaurant, St. Helena



Orange infused waffles with berry compote and chicken apple sausages is what I had.....mmmmmm! I was just checking the menu today and it has already been changed (I love a change-able menu!!). Now it is Banana Bread French Toast with Fruit Compote and Applewood Smoked Bacon....does that sound delicious, or what? Check out the brunch menu HERE.

Orange Waffles at the Market Restaurant

No trip to St. Helena ends without a stop in at Dean and Deluca as we head for home. We have a need to take a little of the flavors back home with us. In this case, we brought home cookies and a beautiful aged jack cheese. We told my husband, Tim that they were gifts for him. Just a little white lie.....he did get to have some.

Goodies at Dean and Deluca

 A day with my girls is something I treasure, and this particular day was perfect. 

I hope you get out and spend a day with someone special....maybe it'll be right here in Napa Valley.

For more information about picturesque St. Helena hop on over HERE. 

Happy Day to you!

teatime improved

Finished a boat load of work yesterday and rewarded myself with a new teacup! I have really been missing my teacups that I kept at school. Not to mention teatime with Morris babies!

Green Regency Teacup and Saucer, £7.50

Picked it up from this adorable little gift and stationary shop/bookstore down the street from me. First green set and it holds the perfect amount of tea! I'm a bit annoyed with how excited I get about this stuff.

The 2012 Olympic Games and 2011 World Championships Are Upon Us...ARE YOU READY?

We are exactly one and a half years away to the start of the 2012 London Olympic Games AND also exactly 8 months away from the 2011 World Championships in Athletics…. And I can promise you the time is about to fly!

I am truly excited, yet fully aware of what awaits me in the coming months.  Just a few weeks ago my friends and I went out for dinner.  We are all Olympians and between the four of us, we’ve amassed more medals at a major championship than I could even begin to guess.   We all agreed that the year leading into the Olympic Games is actually not as fun as people would assume.  It is riddled with a roller coaster of emotions, intensity, fear, happiness, a certain degree of selfishness, and  yet a powerful passion for excellence. 

Moreover, Track & Field (Athletics) is the last team to name their Olympic team.  Selection is not finalized until a month before the games.  So, while other athletes are preparing for competition in London, track athletes are still waiting to secure their selection.  The term stressed, is an understatement.  And in the months leading into the Olympic Games the constant question "Are you going to the Olympic Games?" can become a source of anxiety.

The Olympic Games is the pinnacle for most amateur sports.  Essentially, everything you’ve worked for as an athlete is on the line.  Many athletes will pursue the dream of becoming an Olympian and making it to the podium, and few will achieve it!   I can remember feeling like I aged 20 years in the process in my qualification for the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.  But, I can also remember the incredible feeling of this achievement, which definitely made the journey worth it.     

This time around my objectives are different and much more challenging.  I am climbing a mountain, and I am making sure I have my A-team on board to help me with this journey.  This year is crucial and will serve as a penultimate to the Olympic Games.  One of the most important things I’m after for the next year and a half is stability.  Controlling the relationships I form, the training plan implemented and competition schedules in place are all critical components.  Personally, I know this will be the last time I will ever compete at an Outdoor World Championships and the Olympic Games, which makes the journey I’m embarking on feel as if I am in a do or die scenario.  And I absolutely LOVE this feeling!

Things are about to get intense… Thank goodness I’m a pretty intense woman.  Welcome 2011 World Championships and the 2012 Olympic Games… I’ve been waiting for you!

On a mission,

Nicole

Congrats to the Winner of Stealing Magnolias!!!!

Congratulations to

Sarah of Monaco Interiors,

 Winner of the outstanding book, Stealing Magnolias published by Glitterati!! 

Thank you so much to everyone who participated. I had so much fun reading about all of your experiences in one of my favorite cities, the Queen of jazz and mystery, New Orleans.

And a very big Thank You to Glitterati for their partnership in this wonderful Give Away! 

Have a wonderful day!

Can Men & Women Really be Friends?

Originally posted on November 11, 2008, this blog has been reposted...

If I were to get married tomorrow, I’d imagine my bridesmaids would include Glenn, Eric, Boswell, Glenroy and possibly Bobby. While, I do have a close circle of female friends, I have an even greater circle of close male friends.

Recently one of my friends posed the question “can men & women really be friends?” (as sited in the movie “When Harry met Sally”) We all weighed on this simple, yet perplexing question.

Obviously, because of my circle of male friends, I am biased in the belief that it is possible. Personally, my male friends offer a perspective that my female friends can’t. When it comes to dating, my close male friends are my Oprahs. I consult with them, as they give me insight into how guys think. Also, I consider myself at times an alpha-male trapped inside this female body. I don’t enjoy gossiping and talking about the newest hairstyles. However, I do enjoy WWE, an occasional PS3 game and just being silly (often entertaining & implementing dares). As of lately, I’ve been thinking of capping my number of male friends. Probably more for inventory reasons.


One solution to this question is the ETERNAL FRIEND BOX. There is no chance of getting out once I place a male friend in this box. It’s like I see them only as a brother, and anything beyond that would be incestuous.

There is however one draw back of having opposite gendered friends -- the serious relationship which inevitably leads to marriage. Once a male friend has moved in this direction, we can no longer be as close. It would be wrong talking with them to the wee hours, discussing personal experiences, and emotions when they should be sharing that with their new best friend – their wife. I’ve lost a couple of friends to this assail, but, don’t mind. As a true friend, I revel in their new found joy!

Plain and simple I do believe it is possible for men and women to be friends. Perhaps, for a man and a woman to be friends, there should be no attraction between the two in the beginning. Although, it is possible for a man and woman to develop attraction through the friendship, therefore, placing oneself in non-compromising situations becomes important. It is a good idea to be aware, honest and true about your feelings at all times. Also a committed relationship should always trump the friendship. The safest bet is to only have opposite gendered friends who are gay or to place your heterosexual friends in the eternal friend box. Lock that thing up and throw away the key…

Oddly enough, it seems to me that the person you would want to be in a serious committed relationship with should be a best friend. Does that mean being a friend first is a rite of passage? Geeze, that definitely makes this debate even more confusing!

Eternal Friend Box Subscriber,

Nicole

THAT'S LIFE!

Monday's Music Lyrics - That's Life by Frank Sinatra

When I secured my selection to the 2008 Olympic Games with a stadium record, championship record and winning jump of 1.95m at the Olympic Trials, I can tell you the first thing that came to mind is a thought and a feeling that will always stay with me.  I thought about how grateful I was that I'd stayed committed to my sport.  As I've said before, as an athlete we ride so many waves of emotions.  One day you can be riding high with jubilation over a spectacular performance and the next day you can be frustrated with an inexplicable performance.  Sometimes it can feel like your superpowers have suddenly left you, not to mention the challenges that injuries and personal probelms may add.  But, there is something that needs to be said about being resilient and believing in something - even when no one else does.  And that's what makes the journey much sweeter than the destination.  Life is fun, challenging and it will get you frustrated sometimes... But, if you can muster the will to push through it, you'll be amazed at what awaits you.  This weeks music lyric is dedicated to this belief....

“It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood, who strives valiantly; who errs and comes short again and again; because there is not effort without error and shortcomings; but who does actually strive to do the deed; who knows the great enthusiasm, the great devotion, who spends himself in a worthy cause, who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement and who at the worst, if he fails, at least he fails while daring greatly. So that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat.” ~ Theodore Roosevelt


That's Life by Frank Sinatra



That's life
That's what all the people say
You're riding high in April
Shot down in May
But I know I'm gonna change that tune
When I'm back on top, back on top in June

I said that's life
And as funny as it may seem
Some people get their kicks
Stomping on a dream
But I don't let it, let it get me down
'Cause this fine old world
It keeps spinning around

I've been a puppet, a pauper,
A pirate, a poet,
A pawn and a king,
I've been up and down and over and out
And I know one thing
Each time I find myself
Flat on my face
I pick myself up and get back in the race

That's life
I tell you, I can't deny it
I thought of quitting baby
But my heart just ain't gonna buy it
And if I didn't think it was worth one single try
I'd jump right on a big bird
And then I'd fly

I've been a puppet, a pauper,
A pirate, a poet,
A pawn and a king,
I've been up and down and over and out
And I know one thing
Each time I find myself laying
Flat on my face
I just pick myself up and get back in the race

That's life
That's life, and I can't deny it
Many times I thought of cutting out
But my heart won't buy it
But if there nothing shaking coming this here July
I'm going to roll myself up in a big ball
And die...

My my...

I’ve been doing work in the Radcliffe Camera all day. Needless to say, breathtaking, but it is just so toasty and the smell of mothballs permeates ever corner and archway-crevice that I find myself getting even more dizzy than sleepy. And that is saying something!

Also, the coffee here is seriously strong. Feel like a total weakling

Morris housemate Rosie came to visit yesterday for a bit while on a day trip. It made me so happy to see her and a bit of Smith that I spent a slightly pathetic hour browsing the Spring Course Catalog. Hey Rosie, we have some major Easter Break planning to do!! :)

Daytripping in Napa Valley - Woodhouse Chocolate

 Last weekend, my oldest daughter came home from college for the weekend and we decided to have a bit of a girl's day. Both of my girls and I hopped in the car on Sunday morning and drove to Napa for Brunch and a little adventuring. Our first stop was the town of St. Helena in the heart of the wine country. I am not sure what it is, but all three of us have acutely developed chocolate radar. It must be hereditary. We immediately found one of the most charming chocolate shops I have ever seen, Woodhouse Chocolate.

We all stopped dead in our tracks when we were passing by. We decided that we had to stop and get a little gift for Grammy (my mom), who did not feel up to coming on our little jaunt. It would be nice to think that we were so selfless as to only be thinking of others.....but...

....we are not. As soon as we entered, we were only thinking of our own chocolate needs. I chose the Amaretto Almond, and the Orange Chocolate. Daughter "one" chose the Ginger Tea and also the Orange. Daughter "two" picked the Honey and the Pecan Praline. All get an "A +".... and we are very experienced when it comes to handing out grades in this department.

We did, in fact, pick out six pieces for Grammy, including her very favorite Coconut. The gals in the shop wrapped up out package in the prettiest chocolate brown bag with cream tissue and Tiffany Blue grosgrain ribbon. Sinfully delicious perfection in a bag....that's what it was.

 I hope you have a chance to stop in next time you are in the Napa Valley. Really....what is better than wine and chocolate?

If you cannot get to this neck of the woods in the near future, you can shop online at the Woodhouse Website HERE. You can also learn all about the Anderson Family, the purveyors of this fine establishment as well as why the Elephant has become their symbol. So please do stop in and stay awhile! 

On the Same Wavelength...Alan Campbell for Quadrille

Wavelength by Alan Campbell for Quadrille

There is not a single Quadrille fabric I do not love. And Alan Campbell's designs for Quadrille Fabrics never fail to inspire me.

Quadrille just introduced Mr. Campbell's latest fabric design, WAVELENGTH....available in Brown, Blue, Orange and Green. Surely it will not be long before you see it used in interiors appearing in many a shelter magazine. Which designer do you think will be the first?  

I am definitely on the same wavelength.

Writing that DISSERTATION...

 So here I am at the coffee shop (my usual location) working away on my dissertation, and stopping to take a quick study break (to write this blog). 

I am currently reviewing recent research, pondering over my methods, while also considering what I have already written in my Chapter 2.  It’s a process that seems like it could go on forever, and if I’m not careful I can easily get caught up searching for research minimally related to mine, instead of writing.   My problem is I LOVE reading and exploring what has been researched and written…  I am also passionate about my dissertation topic, which seems to only amplify my perfectionist ways…  This can be a good and bad thing… but definitely tacks on a lot of time to the completion of my dissertation.

 My PhD study has been atypical in the sense that I’ve had to balance my job as a professional athlete, while also being a doctoral student.  As one of my dissertation committee members once mentioned to me, a PhD is like the Olympics of academics.  It’s A LOT of work.  I can attest that this is the hardest I have ever worked academically.  Currently, I’m trying to be re-embedded in my research as I was prior to the holidays.  I’m learning, when you’ve written over a hundred pages and you still have much writing to do, any break taken can cost you some serious time, getting caught up to speed with what you’ve already written….( Ughh… right about now I am regretting taking a break during the Christmas holidays)

The pursuit of a PhD varies across programs.  At my school, Michigan State University, I refer to my program as a very traditional program.  There are courses one must complete, research, a comprehensive exam, dissertation proposal and the defense of a dissertation.  The time frame can range from 4 to 8 years to complete… You better be passionate about what you’re studying or this process can be grueling.  Less than half of students ever actually complete their PhD.  It is intense and not for the faint at heart.  I am currently at the step before defending my dissertation, and I have an AMAZING dissertation committee that pushes me to provide a paramount dissertation.   I barely see the light at the end of the tunnel, but it is enough to remind me that what I’m doing is so worth it.  

Oh, and if you’re wondering what my dissertation topic is, it’s “Good to great in athletics; how and why some athletes make the leap and others don’t.”

Getting back to my dissertation writing,

Nicole

The Audacity to have a Dream! - Martin Luther King

Monday's Music Lyrics - I have a dream! by Dr. Martin Luther King

For as long as I can remember, this speech by Martin Luther King on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial on August 28, 1963, has always been music to my ears.  They represent the world as my parents have raised me to see it -- "to not judge others by the color of their skin but by the content of their character," and hopefully for the world to do the same to me.  Thank you Dr. Martin Luther King for showing the world that one person can make a difference.... Having the audacity to dream!  On this day, we remember and honour you!

I Have A Dream, by Martin Luther King

I am happy to join with you today in what will go down in history as the greatest demonstration for freedom in the history of our nation.

Five score years ago, a great American, in whose symbolic shadow we stand today, signed the Emancipation Proclamation. This momentous decree came as a great beacon light of hope to millions of Negro slaves who had been seared in the flames of withering injustice. It came as a joyous daybreak to end the long night of their captivity.

But one hundred years later, the Negro still is not free. One hundred years later, the life of the Negro is still sadly crippled by the manacles of segregation and the chains of discrimination. One hundred years later, the Negro lives on a lonely island of poverty in the midst of a vast ocean of material prosperity. One hundred years later, the Negro is still languishing in the corners of American society and finds himself an exile in his own land. So we have come here today to dramatize a shameful condition.

In a sense we have come to our nation's capital to cash a check. When the architects of our republic wrote the magnificent words of the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence, they were signing a promissory note to which every American was to fall heir. This note was a promise that all men, yes, black men as well as white men, would be guaranteed the unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

It is obvious today that America has defaulted on this promissory note insofar as her citizens of color are concerned. Instead of honoring this sacred obligation, America has given the Negro people a bad check, a check which has come back marked "insufficient funds." But we refuse to believe that the bank of justice is bankrupt. We refuse to believe that there are insufficient funds in the great vaults of opportunity of this nation. So we have come to cash this check — a check that will give us upon demand the riches of freedom and the security of justice. We have also come to this hallowed spot to remind America of the fierce urgency of now. This is no time to engage in the luxury of cooling off or to take the tranquilizing drug of gradualism. Now is the time to make real the promises of democracy. Now is the time to rise from the dark and desolate valley of segregation to the sunlit path of racial justice. Now is the time to lift our nation from the quick sands of racial injustice to the solid rock of brotherhood. Now is the time to make justice a reality for all of God's children.

It would be fatal for the nation to overlook the urgency of the moment. This sweltering summer of the Negro's legitimate discontent will not pass until there is an invigorating autumn of freedom and equality. Nineteen sixty-three is not an end, but a beginning. Those who hope that the Negro needed to blow off steam and will now be content will have a rude awakening if the nation returns to business as usual. There will be neither rest nor tranquility in America until the Negro is granted his citizenship rights. The whirlwinds of revolt will continue to shake the foundations of our nation until the bright day of justice emerges.

But there is something that I must say to my people who stand on the warm threshold which leads into the palace of justice. In the process of gaining our rightful place we must not be guilty of wrongful deeds. Let us not seek to satisfy our thirst for freedom by drinking from the cup of bitterness and hatred.

We must forever conduct our struggle on the high plane of dignity and discipline. We must not allow our creative protest to degenerate into physical violence. Again and again we must rise to the majestic heights of meeting physical force with soul force. The marvelous new militancy which has engulfed the Negro community must not lead us to a distrust of all white people, for many of our white brothers, as evidenced by their presence here today, have come to realize that their destiny is tied up with our destiny. They have come to realize that their freedom is inextricably bound to our freedom. We cannot walk alone.

As we walk, we must make the pledge that we shall always march ahead. We cannot turn back. There are those who are asking the devotees of civil rights, "When will you be satisfied?" We can never be satisfied as long as the Negro is the victim of the unspeakable horrors of police brutality. We can never be satisfied, as long as our bodies, heavy with the fatigue of travel, cannot gain lodging in the motels of the highways and the hotels of the cities. We cannot be satisfied as long as the Negro's basic mobility is from a smaller ghetto to a larger one. We can never be satisfied as long as our children are stripped of their selfhood and robbed of their dignity by signs stating "For Whites Only". We cannot be satisfied as long as a Negro in Mississippi cannot vote and a Negro in New York believes he has nothing for which to vote. No, no, we are not satisfied, and we will not be satisfied until justice rolls down like waters and righteousness like a mighty stream.

I am not unmindful that some of you have come here out of great trials and tribulations. Some of you have come fresh from narrow jail cells. Some of you have come from areas where your quest for freedom left you battered by the storms of persecution and staggered by the winds of police brutality. You have been the veterans of creative suffering. Continue to work with the faith that unearned suffering is redemptive.

Go back to Mississippi, go back to Alabama, go back to South Carolina, go back to Georgia, go back to Louisiana, go back to the slums and ghettos of our northern cities, knowing that somehow this situation can and will be changed. Let us not wallow in the valley of despair.

I say to you today, my friends, so even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream.

I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: "We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal."

I have a dream that one day on the red hills of Georgia the sons of former slaves and the sons of former slave owners will be able to sit down together at the table of brotherhood.

I have a dream that one day even the state of Mississippi, a state sweltering with the heat of injustice, sweltering with the heat of oppression, will be transformed into an oasis of freedom and justice.

I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.

I have a dream today.

I have a dream that one day, down in Alabama, with its vicious racists, with its governor having his lips dripping with the words of interposition and nullification; one day right there in Alabama, little black boys and black girls will be able to join hands with little white boys and white girls as sisters and brothers.

I have a dream today.

I have a dream that one day every valley shall be exalted, every hill and mountain shall be made low, the rough places will be made plain, and the crooked places will be made straight, and the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together.

This is our hope. This is the faith that I go back to the South with. With this faith we will be able to hew out of the mountain of despair a stone of hope. With this faith we will be able to transform the jangling discords of our nation into a beautiful symphony of brotherhood. With this faith we will be able to work together, to pray together, to struggle together, to go to jail together, to stand up for freedom together, knowing that we will be free one day.

This will be the day when all of God's children will be able to sing with a new meaning, "My country, 'tis of thee, sweet land of liberty, of thee I sing. Land where my fathers died, land of the pilgrim's pride, from every mountainside, let freedom ring."

And if America is to be a great nation this must become true. So let freedom ring from the prodigious hilltops of New Hampshire. Let freedom ring from the mighty mountains of New York. Let freedom ring from the heightening Alleghenies of Pennsylvania!

Let freedom ring from the snowcapped Rockies of Colorado!

Let freedom ring from the curvaceous slopes of California!

But not only that; let freedom ring from Stone Mountain of Georgia!

Let freedom ring from Lookout Mountain of Tennessee!

Let freedom ring from every hill and molehill of Mississippi. From every mountainside, let freedom ring.

And when this happens, when we allow freedom to ring, when we let it ring from every village and every hamlet, from every state and every city, we will be able to speed up that day when all of God's children, black men and white men, Jews and Gentiles, Protestants and Catholics, will be able to join hands and sing in the words of the old Negro spiritual, "Free at last! free at last! thank God Almighty, we are free at last!"

Trivet

Just before Winter Break (read: during Finals), I made something that looks a bit like this loopy trivet by TOMA:

Cork Trivet (also in wood), $20, TOMA Objects

Quite happy with how it turned out, especially considering I was using a pretty low quality piece of plywood. Have got to make some more when I'm back at Smith for a proper set of trivets for our new house!

Engaland

I'm all settled in. I think I may have severely strained/fractured my ankles because I wasn't wearing socks and it was too cold and I slipped a bit. Hurts to walk and feel genuinely idiotic. Pictures of adorable Oxford soon.
:)

Stealing Away to New Orleans: Stealing Magnolias....A Give Away!

Now that the Holiday Season is over, I am asking myself, what is the next excuse for a huge dose of outrageous fun? It occurred to me that Marde Gras in New Orleans was what we all looked forward to all year when I was living in Louisiana studying interior design at LSU. It was the yearly celebration all of my design student friends looked forward to. Whether it was the colors, the originality, the creativity, the music, or just the great excuse to forget about studying and party all day and night, it didn't matter. New Orleans was calling....and calling loudly....with a big trombone leading the band.

You can imagine my delight when it all of the Southern pageantry, a juxtaposition of beautifully elegant propriety and campy costumes in drag came tumbling back into my mind when I received a copy of a stunning new book .....Stealing Magnolias. Author Debra Shriver, chief communications officer of Hearst Corporation, debuts her first book with passion and obvious love for this one-of-a-kind pearl of a city. It is written in a way that is approachable and extremely informative, especially about the things that matter most in this graceful and bewitching town. All that visit cannot escape without losing a part of themselves. 

Stealing Magnolias is made up of the best bits of Debra's New Orleans experiences....there are beautiful photos of the home she and her husband renovated and decorated not long after Katrina..there are delicious Southern recipes with photos that simply make one's mouth water in anticipation....there are gardens and architectural treasures, all shown through that filter of light that can only be found in this place. That light that sweeps in from the side, bouncing off courtyard walls and underneath iron balconies and finally through gauzy sheer covered windows. 

New Orleans is decidedly French, but oh-so American....home of jazz and the mint julep, world famous Cafe du Monde, and voodoo shops..the cultural diversity buzzes with energy and mystery.

Debra captures it all and gives you a brilliant glimpse of the heart and soul of New Orleans. With it's fabulous photography, snippets from taste makers who have been touched by it's gorgeous decadence (Anne Rice, Dave Matthews, Mark Twain, Alexa Pulitzer, Tennessee Williams, Patrick Dunne and Cole Porter are just a few who's impressions are quoted throughout) and all of the extras of what and how to enjoy this city, Stealing Magnolias will take you away on a fabulous adventure. 

Did I mention the Preface by Blue Dog artist, George Rodrigue, the Forward by best-selling author Mary Randolph Carter, and Introduction by the one and only Roald Dahl? Icing on the cake my dears.

This book is unforgettable and perfect for those who have been and want to rekindle fond memories.....for those who have yet to go, it will get you out of that easy chair booking tickets in time for Marde Gras...for those who love jazz...or find that all things French make them smile inside and out.....and what a gift for those you love!

So.......I am so very excited to be partnering with Glitterati Incorporated in a

GIVE AWAY

of Stealing Magnolias!!!

Here are the rules:

1) Head on over to the Glitterati Website HERE and take a look around. You might just find another book you must have!

2) Become a katiedid Follower by clicking on the Google Follow button in my sidebar.

3) Leave a comment here in the comment box about your favorite memory about New Orleans....real or imagined.

4) You must include your contact information to win! And that means an email address so I can email you with the great news and thereby retrieve a mailing address. 

I will announce the winner January 26th, two weeks from today!!

 GOOD LUCK

and

LAISSEZ LES BON TEMPS ROULER!!!

(all photos from Stealing Magnolias by Debra Shriver, copyright 2010, published by Glitterati Incorporated. http://www.glitteratiincorporated.com/)

The University of Michigan vs. Michigan State University

“You’re a traitor! How can you have done your undergraduate degree at the University of Michigan and now you’re doing your PhD at Michigan State University?” says the customs agents to me most times as I cross the border into the USA.

Michigan State University and the University of Michigan are 100km/ 60 miles away from each other, and are both in the Big Ten Conference. The rivalry between these two schools seems to extend to even border control. It seems that most people in Michigan favours either the University of Michigan or Michigan State University, but never both. And being that I am both a Wolverine and a Spartan, opens me up to random comments, head shaking and the constant question why? On one occasion the customs agent said to me “You suck! Yah, I said it and there is nothing you can do about it.” I’d like to believe he was joking.

When I was looking at graduate schools I literally looked at every school across the world offering Sports Psychology. For my interest area, Michigan State University was the best match. Now being someone who bleeds maize and blue, it was initially tough to be on the green and white campus. I mean for 4 years I competed as a student-athlete for the University of Michigan. I’d have such pride as I’d put on my maize and blue uniform and stepped on the track to compete. I set conference, stadiums and school records as a student-athlete there, that still remain in place today! And I credit much of my development into a world-class athlete and thirst for academics to the University of Michigan. So, to cross over to the land of Spartans was definitely a difficult adjustment, initially. Ironically, I currently train at the University of Michigan with my coach James Henry and study at Michigan State University.

The truth is Michigan State University is equally a phenomenal school. I have experienced incredible support, leadership and guidance at Michigan State University. Moreover, being a professional athlete and a PhD student (along with the personal problems of life) is not an easy task to juggle. There are classes, conferences and publications I’ve missed out on because of my athletics. But, my school and advisor, Dr. Feltz, have managed to always understand, while still demanding erudite work. The bar of excellence is constantly being raised. Likewise, I’m surrounded by phenomenal professors and students that you can’t help but want to produce amazing research.

Yes, I am a Spartan but I am also a Wolverine,

In the company of greatness,

Nicole

The Most Important Thing in the World

Monday's Music Lyrics - Love's Divine by Seal
This week's music blog is inspired by recent discussions I've had with friends and my own belief of what is truly the most important thing in the world.

The beginning of "Love's Divine" reminds me of a time in my life, when a relationship I was in suddenly ended, with someone I cared deeply about.  My heart was broken and I was disinterested in ever knowing love. The experience left such a bad taste in my mouth, I looked at LOVE as a weapon of mass destruction. But, with enough time, comes clarity, gratitude and the realization of what love truly is. Love is... beautiful. And the truth of the matter is love is probably the most important thing anyone in this life needs and should pursue fervently.

I can tell you I have travelled all over the world, met royalties, political leaders, celebrities, incredible people, competed at the Olympic Games, and I've heard the Canadian anthem played in my honour as I've stood on top of the podium... but the truth is in the grand scheme of things, NONE OF THAT MATTERS. While I'm grateful for these experiences, it pales in comparison to the real treasure everybody is capable of having - LOVE.  The most important thing in this world is to give and receive LOVE. Everything else are the accessories to what life can offer. All the degrees in the world can't make up for the lack of LOVE.  To me this song epitomizes this realization and the importance of LOVE.

I believe this quote in the movie "Meet Joe Black" best defines love, as I see it:

"Love is passion, obsession, someone you can't live without. If you don't start with that, what are you going to end up with? Fall head over heels. I say find someone you can love like crazy and who'll love you the same way back. And how do you find him? Forget your head and listen to your heart. I'm not hearing any heart. Run the risk, if you get hurt, you'll come back. Because, the truth is there is no sense living your life without this. To make the journey and not fall deeply in love - well, you haven't lived a life at all. You have to try. Because if you haven't tried, you haven't lived."

This week's lyrics is dedicated to the magnanimous gift of LOVE. I wish for you that 2011 enshrouds you with LOVE... And remember to never take that special someone for granted.  Let them know you appreciate them, often.  They are truly life's amazing gift!

LOVE'S DIVINE - by Seal




Then the rainstorm came, over me
And I felt my spirit break
I had lost all of my, belief you see
And realized my mistake
But time through a prayer, to me
And all around me became still

I need love, love's divine
Please forgive me now I see that I've been blind
Give me love, love is what I need to help me know my name

Through the rainstorm came sanctuary
And I felt my spirit fly
I had found all of my reality
I realize what it takes

'Cause I need love, love's divine
Please forgive me now I see that I've been blind
Give me love, love is what I need to help me know my name

Oh I, don't bend (don't bend), don't break (don't break)
Show me how to live and promise me you won't forsake
'Cause love can help me know my name

Well I try to say there's nothing wrong
But inside I felt me lying all along
But the message here was plain to see
Believe me

'Cause I need love, love's divine
Please forgive me now I see that I've been blind
Give me love, love is what I need to help me know my name

Oh I, don't and(don't bend), don't break (don't break)
Show me how to live and promise me you won't forsake
'Cause love can help me know my name

Love can help me know my name.