The Dream Project: Let it Begin

"It isn't necessary for you, the actor, to like yourself - self-love isn't easy to come by for most of us - but you must learn to trust who you are.

There is no one else like you.

"I started re-reading an old acting book called "Audition" by Michael Shurtleff. It's the actor's bible, in a way. And aren't we supposed to be in the Word everyday? Ha, bible humor. Some Christians out there just chuckled a little. Okay they probably didn't. Anyways, I've begun re-reading this book because I am baby stepping my way into acting (with my eyes closed and my armpits sweaty) because, I guess, this is what it looks like to try to go for your dreams. Fear, terror, sweat and the occasional chest pain. I am so looking forward to this.

Confession.

I've reached an impasse in my life. I'm 25 years old and I've had the same dream since I can remember. I was a tiny little child dressing up in my Strawberry Shortcake bedsheets (I made them into a princess gown) and I draped my mom's necklaces on my head as a crown. Alright, every little girl played dress up and wanted to be a princess, but I didn't. I just wanted to play the princess. I also wanted to play the bad guy, the fearless leader, the timid underdog, the quirky sidekick. I wanted to play characters. Pathetic as it may sound, I still do. And I'm not getting any younger, so it's about time I pursue this gig all-out and see if I get any traction. In the case that I DON'T, well then... plan B. I'll let you know when I figure out what that is. I enjoy water color painting, so perhaps that? You should probably be rooting for me in this acting thing. I'm not that good at water colors.

There is a point to all of this.

Dream. Project.

I am excited to announce a launch of The Dream Project, which is (drum roll, please) a happy new endeavor I made up and I'm dragging my dear friend Carrie into. I decided that I probably need accountability on this long road to pursuing the actor's dream, and my friend Carrie, well, she's on a dreamy journey, as well. We both have dreams. We both have time on our hands. And we both have a ticking clock, as we are moving away from each other and Boston in a few very short months. We could use each other's talents, brains, time and resources to kick start ourselves into our destinies. So that's just what we're gonna do.

The Plan.

Every good project has a plan. Even more importantly, every good project has action steps. Carrie and I meet once a week, make a list, and then have at it. To be totally honest, we see each other a lot more than once a week, and we tend to color and munch on snacks, which is why it's important that we dedicate specific time to this project. Her brain processes things completely differently than mine, which makes her an excellent companion. I can already tell this is going to be a beautiful thing.

I wanted to share the beginning of this long endeavor with you. There are many details that I will fill you in on. Lots of change and excitement in the coming weeks and months in my household (moving to NYC, pursuing a creative career, just minor stuff, you know....)

I'm scared to pursue my dream, but I'm even more scared of what I will become if I don't. An old bitter woman. Ew nobody likes her. Stick with me as I dream big and audition my tail off.

Sunday Gratitude

The nicest thing happened today.

I woke up this fine Sunday morning to a phone call from my husband. He left early to help with church set up, so he was out of the house before I even stirred. Our church is a quick walk from our building (I like to tease that we are very convenient Christians), so even though it's not too far, the early hour mixed with the cold makes it quite the morning sacrifice. Ok I lied. It would be a sacrifice to me, but he actually likes helping out. Imagine that. He is clearly the better one between the two of us. So, like I was saying, he called me this morning and I figured it was because he left something or needed something or something. Shame on me. He was calling to ask if he could bring me Starbucks. You did not misread. Starbucks for my morning. Coffee for me. Heaven's elixir for turning bitter mornings into better mornings. How NICE is that?! He said he had a short break from setting up, so he would walk over with coffee. He came gallantly up the steps of our apartment building, toting the beloved caffeine wonder (and blueberry muffin!) with honor. Ok maybe I was still half-asleep. But he seemed like such a stallion.

I LOVE presents and thoughtful acts of kindness. I just love them. And this morning, my kindhearted husband surprised me in the most special way. It may just be coffee, but it was coffee for me. I am so thankful for his thoughtfulness. I have to brag on him. Sometimes love is hard, sometimes love is awful, but sometimes it is sacred and special and laced with the darkest roast Starbucks has to offer. I think I have a praise report for the morning service. Haaa just kidding. I don't talk in church. I just doodle.

In all seriousness, I have much to be grateful for on this blustery cold day. What's your Sunday Gratitude? Cherish it.

(Late) Morning Musings

// Happy coffee and Essie Tart Deco and Turquoise and Caicos manicure // Fresh cinnamon bread from local Italian bakery // Treat in the mail from my BFF (atop my inspirational notebook) // Mandarin-Mint candle that stayed with me all the rainy-long day //

It's Been Raining.

Noshing

// Lunchtime vegetables. Brussel sprouts, artichokes and spinach. Are you proud, Miss Fresh Life? I'm such a wannabe.

Reading

// Stumbled upon this Eurotrip blog. Andrew and Jenni have gotten me even more amped to start my packing list and googlemapping locations.

Musing

// Winne the Pooh. He was so right about those blustery days. That's one wise bear.

Wanting

// Bathing suits. Shorts. Tank tops. All in neon colors. Oh, and the perfect arse to fit into them.

Planning

// A spring break trip to see my sis and lady soul mate. She is the nicest person I know. For real.

Celebrating

// Spring. I know it's coming. Earlier this week I biked to the gym and felt it in the air. And you know what? The birds know it, too. They were singing. Not just chirping, singing. They're ready and so am I.

The Progressive Palate // Bourbon Chapter

Photo Credits: Andrew Stein

Eureka. A Dinner Was Born.

During the gigantic snow storm a few weeks ago a wondrous idea was hatched. Sitting around a bar table with a couple of dear friends, we pondered the idea of having a progressive dinner. Since life in Cambridge is relatively close-knit and entirely walkable, it seemed like a pretty "duh" idea to plan a meal and simply meader from house to house. I honestly don't know why we haven't done this before. The other part of this genius brainstorm included a longing to improve our bar tending skills. Combining the two ideas, one perfect creation was birthed: The Progressive Palate. A progressive dinner based on Bourbon-themed cuisine and beverages. I know, sounds like foodie Heaven, right? RIGHT.

The Map + Menu.

Cocktails and Appetizers

// Hale House - We served Ricotta and Pistachio stuffed Figs, Brie and Crackers served with Homemade Apple Butter, an assortment of winter fruits and... (drumroll please) Lemon-Mint Juleps. We were the only Southerners in this crew, so we had to represent. Juleps were just the ticket.

Dinner and Drinks

// Tomasik House - The lovely Tomasiks served Bourbon-Barbeque Pulled Pork, Coleslaw, Spring Corn Bean Salad and straight up Bourbon on the rocks. Mmm. Walk time from our house to theirs? 6 minutes. (Disclaimer: That does not include the gear up time, i.e. donning coat, boots, scarf, hat, gloves... Snow is still on our ground, people.)

Dessert and Delights

// Sachedina House - Petsi's Apple and Cherry Pie served with varied ice creams and assorted Bourbon, Baileys and Kahlua. Oh so yum. Walk time from their house to hers? 3.5 minutes. Not much of a need to "gear up" since the commute time is oh so short.

Moment.

We ate. We drank. We howled with laughter. Stories were told, exotic travels recalled and perhaps a few impressions were thrown around... While the entire evening was a smashing success, there was one really special moment for me personally.

Lounging around the main course dinner table, we were discussing the Pope and his abrupt abdication of the Catholic throne. As I looked around the table, it dawned on me that these dear friends, these beloved and talented brainiacs, all represent a specific and eclectic origin completely dissimilar to my own incubated life experience. Each of us vary in our religion, ethnicity and upbringing. Each are at a different stage professionally, each pursuing a wildly different profession. Each tabletop opinion shaped by a specific worldly experience, whether it was growing up halfway across the Earth, celebrating a holiday I had never heard of or worshiping a deity I had, truthfully, never given much thought to. These precious people are more than a hometown homage to their flag or a trophy tribute to their culture; they are flesh and mind and smiles and spirit. This reverent moment stunned me. It painted a portrait fitting of my time here in Cambridge; a patchwork quilt of diversity drawing together fabric from around the globe. Surprising me with its texture and warmth and affection. I promise, this isn't the Bourbon talking. I was truly struck by how rare it is to have Muslims, Jews and Christians all share a meal in perfect, perfect harmony. In that moment, my prayer and awe were simple, "Let this make ripples around the world."

Ahead.

We had an alarming amount of fun. Naturally, the next Progressive Palate is already in the works. We're thinking Italian...?

I encourage you to try out your own dinner event! It can be silly, it can be swanky, but just remember that even though the food is important... the guests are truly the delight of the feast.

Monday Magic

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Oscars 2013 

Happy Monday, friends! Aren't the Oscars simply magical? I can't get over it. Anne Hathaway's acceptance speech was perfect; short and super, duper sweet. Jessica Chastain continues to wow me with her movie star glamour (I'm inspired by old-school-style actors, she was Julliard trained, hello talented one). And Jennifer Lawrence totally pulled off her on-stage fall as she accepted her own Oscar. Well played. I love cool girls. Especially ones who can laugh at themselves.

Photo Credit: Rob Strong

Putting Letters to Paper

I'm happy to share an article I wrote for this week's edition of The Harbus, the Harvard Business School newspaper, about a start-up business called Chef'd Up. A fun twist on dining with friends, the concept of Chef'd Up is one that brings Boston-area chefs into your home for an intimate and personalized dinner party. Great idea, and a great team of guys spearheading the business. Check it out and let me know what you think!

Sights Ahead.

I'm MORE than thrilled to share this next piece of news. After my husband graduates from business school in May, we are finally, definitely, legitimately, going to Europe! I've never been, and it's been a trip we've dreamed about for 6+ years. Tickets are officially purchased. OH MY GOSH. Many more details to come. But I am so, so excited.

More Than Dreaming.

A lot is happening up here in the cold land of Cambridge. I'll have more to share with you soon about specific happenings, but for now, dreams are being dreamed and pursued. Thank goodness, right? When you stop dreaming you start dying. So take a moment today, breathe in deep, and dream the craziest thing you can think of. I dare you to try and do it.