observation: doing nothing is boring

I often like to think of myself as a sociologist. One of the defining roles of a sociologist is to make observations. While it is this very methodology that causes other scientists to look down on sociology, it what I love about my field. Any time I'm in a new place or situation, I take time to simply observe my surroundings.
Eventually, my task in job #1 will be to work in small-groups teaching 3rd grade math. But for now, my assignment has been to observe. Three times this week, I've gone into the classroom to sit and observe: 1. the teacher- her rules, her discipline, her teaching style 2. the students- their attitudes, their abilities, their learning styles 3. the classroom- the environment, the interactions, the class as a group. Each of these days, the required two and a half hours have felt incredibly long (even though I wasn't even there the full time). Why? Because strictly sitting and observing is very boring. As humans, we are meant to interact with our environments.
I've wondered if it might seem particularly boring to me because I've been a teacher in a classroom. Much of what I'm observing, I experienced firsthand last year. I find myself supressing my "inner teacher". This is not my classroom, and I cannot overstep the boundaries and my responsibilities. This week, the only responsibility given to me is to observe the class. I cannot intervene when students are talking when they should be quiet. I cannot serve as a reference point for students who don't understand.
No, I just sit, watch, listen, process, and make notes.
And it is very boring.

I wrote this entry in my notebook during the kids' writing time. There isn't too much to observe when kids are doing individual work.

garden state

Garden State- in addition to being a great movie, it is also the view from the apartment of my job #2. Each Thursday I meet two kids on the corner of Broadway, walk them home, then hang out with them until their parents get home. Even though they are age 8 and 9 and technically it is babysitting, I don't really like to call it that. It seems demeaning to both them and me.
The first time I visited the apartment was at night for the interview. I only made it as far as the dining room. But today I walked in and found it to be a great New York apartment. Located on the 7th floor, the west windows overlook the Hudson River and the Jersey shoreline. The view is AWESOME. The kids told me the sunsets are amazing. I can only imagine they would be.
Today was my first day at this new job. While hanging out on the corner of Broadway, a girl I know passed by. The same thing happened to me yesterday. It seems to me that the odds of someone I know passing by on a crowded street in New York City would be fairly low. But this sort of thing happens, even in one of the biggest cities in the world.
I successfully met both kids, then began the short walk home. Our walk home included a stop in a neighborhood mom and pop type of store where the kids got afternoon snacks. Although their apartment is only 10 blocks from where I live and just 3 blocks from the bus stop, I worry about how I'll manage this job of waiting on the corner when winter arrives. Today felt chilly, and it was only in the 70s.
Once at the apartment, I retrieved the key from the doorman. Yes, it's true. There is a doorman at the building. The rest of my time with kids included helping with homework, playing a math game, reading books. The parents would like me to be both active and interactive with the kids. So, I suggested we go to the nearby park before beginning dinner. I was surprised when they actually said yes. They played on the monkey bars, showed me their acrobatic skills, then we all played tag. Once back home, I started dinner. I know, I'm sounding very domestic. The rest of the evening involved spinning the Twister spinner, playing Go Fish, then straightening the apartment. When the parents arrived home the kids were showered, in bed reading, and impressed by my review of our first day. What can I say? I guess I really am destined to work with kids. Tomorrow I go back to job #1 at the school in Harlem.

an ordinary day... that's not so ordinary

After watching LOST, I felt inspired to go to the gym. Much of today was spent sitting, and I was motivated to do something active. Even if it was just walking around the track for 30 minutes. Which is exactly what I did.
This morning I woke up and enjoy the vanilla coffee that my suitemate had made. After several weeks of saying we need a coffee pot, one was finally purchased. Now we can have brewed coffee any time. Now that I'm a student again, I feel I'm drinking coffee by the gallons. It's the only way to make it through all the readings I have each week.
After the cup of coffee and waiting for the shower (a drawback to suite living), I went to the campus computer lab to print out this week's reading. I'm pretty sure I left with a small tree in my book bag. In an effort to effectively utilize my time, I went to the campus cafe to get another cup of coffee and read an article or two. I read one and a half before I had to leave.
Today was a brown bag lunch for the Policy Student Network. Considering I'm taking a policy class and will be attending the Policy Institute in Washington, D.C. this January, I decided to attend. Today's speaker, Sharon Lynn Kagan, is also the director of the Institute, so it is good for me to begin making connections with her.

Sharon Lynn Kagan Awarded the Harold W. McGraw, Jr. Prize in Education

TC's Sharon Lynn Kagan has received the Harold W. McGraw, Jr. Prize in Education, making her the first woman to earn the nation's top three education awards: the McGraw Prize, the Council of Chief State School Officers' Distinguished Service Award, and the Education Commission of the States' James B. Conant Award.
This is currently on the Teachers College homepage. As you can see, I have the opportunity study with a woman who has amazing credentials, connections, and experience. She's advised several key policymakers, including presidents, in the last 25 years. She imparted her wisdom, expertise, and principles. As she described how she became involved in educational policy, she said, "sometimes careers are a matter of serendipity." This might have been the most meaningful part of the event for me. Because truthfully, I'm still not sure what my career plan is. But I like her idea that maybe I will discover it through coincidental good fortune. It gave me hope. Additionally, I got free lunch.
After the luncheon, I went to read more of my articles. Then I went to meet my newest employer so she could show me where to pick up her kids tomorrow and have some ease about leaving them under my care. What did I do after that? More reading, of course. The reading is never-ending. I had class at 5:10, and I was happy when we got out early. I had time to come home, fix dinner, and then read more before watching LOST.
After all the sitting and reading throughout the day, I needed to do something active. Something besides more sitting and reading. Which is what I'm going to do now before I going to bed.

it's not enough

Last night I watched Grey's Anatomy. With Journey on Sunday nights, I never really had time for TV. But when I saw the advertising for this show, I was intrigued. I only watched a few episodes of the show last season. Then I watched the season finale last May, and I was hooked. So last night I sat through Desperate Housewives, waiting for the season premiere of Grey's Anatomy.
Overall, I wouldn't say it was a great episode. But it had its moments, the defining one at the end. The title character Meredith Grey often seems so sweet, naive and willing to please. But in one moment, she seemed like a true, strong woman. She has been told that she was "like coming up for air", that she is what saved him. Meredith looks at him and says, "It's not enough." She gets in her car, and she drives away.
I wonder how many women would drive away. Would I? Or would the words be enough for me to stay? Now I haven't given the whole story or provided the background leading up to the moment. But even without all that, she walked away from a very hot doctor because she didn't feel his words were enough. So what is it that she wants? Well, I think she wants action coupled with the words. She wants him to show her how he really feels about her, not just say it. Because words are easy to say, but showing someone we like them with our actions takes more effort. And I think Meredith knows she is worth the effort. I know that I worth the effort. And so, I hope that when necessary, I'll be strong enough to tell a guy, "it's not enough."

you're not from here?

Last night I went out with my Jersey friend and a big group of random people all interconnected through a web of friendships. Many of them were from my home state, but there were the few natives to represent New York and New Jersey. As I drank my Brooklyn Lager, I mingled and talked with various people part of this random group. There was the usual first conversation topics covered: where are you from, what do you do, how long have you been in New York? Finally, I found myself engaged in a normal and casual conversation: we discussed what type of 'clothing style' we find attractive on the opposite sex. This conversation involved two guys, a girl and me. The girl and I agreed that a good pair of jeans on a guy is worth noticing. Okay, so the conversation was kind of random, but then again, I like random conversations.
It turns out that 3 out of the 4 people are from the area. I was the 1 not. But there was surprise among the group when I told them. The girl said that she would have thought I was from New York. Apparently I give off that New York vibe. This was the best compliment. I attributed my city saviness to living in Bangkok for 2 years. Because if you can live in Bangkok, I'm pretty sure you can live anywhere.
I left the bar feeling pretty good about my New York attitude. I felt a little less confident when I got to the subway and saw the uptown train I needed wasn't running. A sign instructed me to take the downtown train to Jay Street, then make the transfer uptown. I didn't see a Jay Street anywhere on my map. Unnerved by the thought of ending up in Brooklyn at 1am by myself, I decided to take a train to a stop that was on my map. So I waited for that train. And waited. Once at the next station, I had to make the uptown transfer. I missed the train I needed and had to wait. Once again, I was waiting for a very long time. I took the long-awaited train to Times Square where I had to do another transfer. Which, of course, involved more waiting. At this point, I had been underground for well over an hour.
I am happy to say that I successfully navigated all the subways and transfers and finally made it home at 2am. Nearly two hours after being told that I could pass for a New Yorker. It was quite an accomplishment: both the compliment and the subway navigation.

off broadway

While hanging out with out-of-town friends this past week, I spent two nights down on Broadway. The famous, Times Square, Broadway that consisits of lots of neon lights, crowds of tourists and home to many theaters. Last night I went off Broadway to a lesser known area to see a lesser known play, The Breadwinner. I met my Jersey friend and two of her friends over on the East Side for a night of culture. The heat of the theater nearly lulled me to sleep during the first act, but by the second act I felt awake and engaged by the dialogue of the play. It was a great New York theater experience.
Afterwards, I took the subway home, yet felt inspired to walk around before heading back to my room. I decided to exit one subway stop before mine, then walk the rest of the way. This decision led to the coincidence of exiting at the same time as my roommate and her friends. It's strange the way you can see people you know so randomly in such a big city. I joined them for pizza at a little joint that clearly is a late night spot for undergrad students. As I sat there eating part of my roommate's jumbo slice of pizza, I found myself feeling much older than everyone there. I also noticed that we were practically the only girls in the place. Someone should tell the freshman girls to go here if they want to meet a cute guy.
While walking back to the dorms, I had to put on my long-sleeved shirt. The weather is finally changing. Last night I slept with the window open, snuggled beneath my blankets. This morning the window is still open, the fan is off, and I'm enjoying the cool 65 degree weather of New York.

cam confession #12

Tonight I lived life on the cutting edge of fashion. I wore boots with a skirt. Cowboy boots.

Last year on my birthday, I decided to buy cowboy boots. I have no idea why- except for the fact that they were Steve Madden and they were on sale. In the process of randomly buying the boots, I made my Sis mad because she had been eyeing them, too.
While Cowboy boots have always been popular where I live, I wouldn't say they were always necessarily considered stylish. Until recently. I guess that's what happens when celebrities and New Yorkers begin to wear it. I grew up seeing boots and jeans. That was the only combination. But modern fashion has defied this rule. And tonight I joined those who dare to wear boots with skirts.
I looked pretty cute and very stylish (if I do say so myself). Additionally, the boots were practical. I knew they had passed the shoe test, so they are comfortable for walking several blocks. But they gave my entire look an extra dose of sassiness that my Doc Marten sandals (the other option) lacked. They also make me taller than the sandals which is always a bonus.
I'll admit, I was pretty nervous. I'm not one to be trendy. Or a fashion risk-taker. After making too many disastrous mistakes in middle school, I generally try to play it safe. But tonight was great. I felt confident, not self-conscious. I looked chic, yet comfortable. I'm setting a fashion trend among my friends. I NEVER imagined I would inspire anyone when it came to fashion.
Will I wear my cowboy boots with a skirt again? Of course. Because these boots were made for walking, and that's just what they'll do...

serendipity

I like the word serendipity- to make discoveries or find good fortune by accident. Moving to New York promises many serendipitous moments.
Last night was the first in a series of such moments. I finished reading an article, then realized I was finished reading. I had read all the required reading for this week. Additionally, I didn't have any trainings to attend. So I was free to spend most of the day with my friend j who is in town.
Today I went with friend j and her friend l to the American Museum of Natural History. I'll admit that initially I was disappointed because I was hoping to go to the Met. But the Natural History museum turned out to be pretty cool. I got to see big dinosaur bones. And they had a Margaret Mead display, appealing to my inner sociologist. In fact, I liked all the various "peoples" exhibits.
Afterwards, friend j invited me to join them for lunch. After reviewing some options, at friend l's suggestion we decided to go to the East Side. We would lunch at Serendipity.
This small restaurant was unique, charming and intimate. A very good discovery, indeed. The food, atmosphere and company were wonderful. Additionally, there was the dessert list. Serendipity is famous for their Frrrozen Hot Chocolate. I tried it. It was like drinking chocolate ice-cream, but better. The chocolate cake is very good, too. If I go again, I might be tempted by one of their huge sundaes or possibly the carrot cake.
I look forward to more serendipity. Perhaps at Serendipity or perhaps another magical moment of destiny waiting to be discovered accidentally.

playing games

I like games. Scrabble with C.T. is a favorite. I also enjoy Gin Rummy while traveling with friend A. Plus all the classic games most of us played as kids: Monopoly, Clue, Life. I also like games of risk. Blackjack has long been a favorite. And last March I discovered the fun of Texas Hold 'Em. Then this summer I learned how to play Craps, despite all the confusing rules and strategies and the fast pace.
There is one game of risk I don't like: the dating game.
Boy and Girl meet. Boy and Girl seem to like each other. Everything gets complicated.
I recently realized why I don't like the dating game- we all play by our own rules. I like dating. I don't mind the risks that are involved in dating. But I don't like the waiting and the wondering. According to my dating rules, if Boy likes me, then he should call me. Sooner rather than later. Because if Boy likes me, then it stands to reason that he would want to see me again sooner rather than later. Don't wait to call because you think you should play it cool and wait a few days. See this is how I interpret the not calling. But I will acknowledge that from a different perspective, Boy might just be busy. Or he might be worried about rejection. Or he might have lost my phone number. The list of possibilities are endless.
When I play a game that involves risks, like Blackjack, overall I know what to do. If the dealer has less than 6 showing, then you probably don't want to take a hit. But if the dealer has 8 or more, then it is probably best to go ahead and take a hit. There are the times when the rules are a little less certain. Like when I have a 12 or the dealer has a 7. But you get the idea. And then after betting and taking the risk, you can win big or lose big. (Or little if you bet like I do).
But with dating and relationships, it's not this easy. There are no rules to help guide your risky decisions. How long do you wait for a call? When is it okay to stop waiting and call him? When do you give up because you realize he's just not into you? Is it okay to be straightforward? Or should you act more coy? The list of questions goes on.
I know there are countless books on this whole topic. I don't want to read those books because I know that in reality relationships can't be based on strategies and rules. But it seems to me it would make life a lot easier if there was some sort of dating manual. All I know is that when he does finally call, all the anxieties go away. And it makes me smile.

units of time

I recently watched About a Boy. And so in the spirit of that movie, I am going to recap my weekend in units of time.
One unit= 30 minutes

Friday
-riding the bus to the aiport:2 units
-looking for friend m and retrieving my bag of winter clothes:1 unit
-waiting for a bus back to manhattan:1 unit
-riding the bus back to my dorm:2 units
-going to happy hour with my suitemates:2 units
-meeting friend m, friend a and friend a's brother d for drinks, dinner and experiencing the city that never sleeps:too many units to count

Saturday
-taking a nap after night-out:3 units
-reading for class:4 units
-meeting friend j (who is in town from home) and her people:1 unit
-exploring Lincoln Center and walking to Times Square/ avoiding the rain:2 units
-eating dinner in Times Square:2 1/2units

Sunday
-brunch with my suitemates, jg&jt:2 units
-reading more for class:1 unit
-looking for lost friend j:1 unit
-joining friend j and her friend for lunch at my favorite restaurant, Nacho's Kitchen:2 units
-showing off my neighborhood:2 units
-going to Central Park to read with my suitemate jg:4 units
-working out with suitemate jg:2 units

note: all unaccounted for units are most likely spent doing one of the following
1. reading for class
2. waiting for subway trains
3. walking to next destination
4. sleeping
5. eating

the shoe test

Living in New York City means a lot of walking. When I moved here, I brought with me a collection of my cutest shoes. Now each pair is undergoing what I call "the shoe test." I can already say that Carrie and the rest of the S&C girls were crazy. There is no way you can wear heels in the city and act like they are as comfortable as sneakers. I recently watched an episode where Carrie nearly skipped down the street in her Monolo Blahniks. I am here to say that walking in the City with heels without grimacing is a sign of good acting.
So far my test has yielded the following results-
Steve Madden sandals with heels: fail
Steve Madden cowboy boots: pass
Puma sneakers: pass
Mossimo heels: fail
New Balance sneakers: pass
Steve Madden slides: pass
Anne Klein slides: still to be determined
Doc Marten sandals: pass
The pass/fail criterion was determined on the basis of whether my feet hurt excessively after walking only a few blocks, whether I could walk across a brick path without getting stuck in a crack, and whether the shoes cause blisters- after the cellulitis I developed from blisters in Thailand, I now take blisters very seriously.
Of course a whole new shoe test will be created once winter sets in. I won't care about the way they look as long as my feet are warm. Just one criterion. Okay, maybe not really. After all, I live in New York City. I have to maintain some degree of style.

reality check

I've been busy the last few days adjusting to my new life. Not the New York part. The student part. All the free time I had for exploring New York is now officially gone.
Last Wednesday was my first class. The professor handed out a pre-test and told us if we could do the math on it, then we would be fine doing the required math for the class. I knew two answers. I was worried.
My schedule looks like this:
Monday- Class P&S 5:10-6:50pm, Class SE 7:20-9:00pm
Tuesday- Class EP 5:10-6:50pm, Class C 7:20-9:00pm
Wednesday- Class P&S 5:10-6:50pm
So, you might be thinking I get to have a 4-day weekend each week. I'm hoping to have a least 1 day free each week. These classes are very demanding. Before next week I have 11 readings and 1 homework assignment to finish.
In the meantime, I spend my mornings attending trainings for a job that I haven't even gotten yet. I'm very busy. But I just remind myself that I am at my dream school. And I am in New York. I hope to still have a little bit of fun. Because life is too short to spend all my time in the library. While the weather is still nice, I can take advantage of reading elsewhere. Perhaps Central Park...

The Prayers of the People

Today I remember in a city that will never forget.

I borrow the following prayer from The Cathedral Church of Saint John the Divine:
With all our heart and all our mind, we pray to you, O Lord.
For the peace of the world, that a spirit of respect and forbearance may grow among nations and peoples, we pray to you, O Lord:
Make us instruments of your peace.
For our enemies and those who wish us harm, especially those who are led to acts of public violence throughout the world; that in the aftermath of the destruction in New York, Pennsylvania, and Washington on September 11th, 2001 we may grow ever more deeply in your spirit of justice and peace, we pray to you, O Lord:
Where there is hatred, let us sow love.
For all who believe in you, Lord Christ, and all whose faith is known to you alone, that they may be delivered from the darkness of fanaticism that arises from poverty and oppression, and form the pride that arises from wealth and comfort, and brought into your light, so that divisions that foster violence may cease, we pray to you, O Lord:
Where there is injury, let us sow pardon.
For all that divides the peoples of the Earth and separates us from the love of God, whose will is that we might all be one, we pray to you, O Lord:
Where there is discord, let us sow union.
For those who have lost their faith in you Lord God, for those who continue to mourn those who died in the terrorist attacks, may your Church give comfort and hope in this time of remembrance, we pray to you, O Lord:
Where there is doubt, let us sow faith.
For all those whose spirit has been broken and whose lives have been irrevocably disrupted by violence and its aftermath, we offer our prayers along with the persecuted, the lonely, and the sick who have bid our prayers today, that they may be relieved and protected. We pray to you, O Lord:
Where there is despair, let us sow hope.
For the mission and ministry of the Episcopal Church, especially in the Diocese of New York and in this Cathedral Church; that we may listen to the Gospel of reconciliation and proclaim it in word and action for the building of your reign here on earth, we pray to you, O Lord:
Where there is darkness, let us sow light.
For all those who died in the violence of September 2001 and for all others whom we remember today, for those who died in the recent attacks in our sister cities, London and Madrid, for those who believed in your resurrection and those who knew not of your promise of eternal life, in trust that they have been found by you and are at rest in your holy habitation, we pray to you, O Lord:
Where there is sadness, let us sow joy.

another day of cam and the city

Yesterday was another day of exploring New York. I met a friend at Radio City Music Hall, then we wandered over to Rockefeller Center. As she ate her sandwich we just enjoyed being outside, right in the middle of the city. Afterwards we headed up 5th Avenue. The street was actually closed due to a parade. A Union parade. Where I'm from, parades are about as uncommon as Unions.
We became temporarily distracted from our sightseeing mission when we stopped inside one of the stores along 5th Ave. But then we continued along the parade path up to Central Park passing Trump Tower- shamelessly advertising The Apprentice, FAO Schwartz- which seems smaller than I remember, and The Plaza Hotel- sadly, closed for renovating the hotel into apartments.
We crossed through Central Park and ended up at Columbus Circle. We continued our walk over to Lincoln Center where we discovered a labyrinth of tents selling various craft items. From there we walked towards downtown simply noticing all the city has to offer. I finally left my friend in a shoe store back by Columbus Circle. I rode an extremely crowded subway back home. Upon arriving back in my room, I discovered I was exhausted. My plan for a night out on the town was quickly abandoned. Instead, I went to a local bar and watched the UT/Ohio State football game.

the surreal reality: I live in New York City

Today was one of those days. The kind I know will make people jealous that I'm living in New York. The kind of day that makes me excited that I live in New York.
Even though classes have officially started, mine are only Monday through Wednesday. Which means, I only had 1 class this week. So I decided that I need to take advantage of my free time while I still have it. Today I decided to also take advantage of free admission to a museum. My grad school maybe be fancy and expensive, but at least I get free entry into most of the major museums. I chose the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA). Arriving by subway and exiting at the wrong stop, I discovered I was only 1 block from the MoMA making my mistake actually not so much a mistake.
I got my free ticket and wandered around each of the levels of the museum. I didn't go feeling the pressure to look at everything. Today was simply an overview. I get in free. I can go again. It was great being in such a cultural place. Not only because of the art, but because of the people. All around me I heard a variety of languages being spoken. It was actually kind of noisy in there.
After leaving the museum, I headed north to Central Park. It was a beautiful day, and so I took advantage of the weather. I walked through Central Park just enjoying being outside and being in New York City. As I was taking it all in, I found myself thinking I live in New York City, I live in New York City. Sometimes it all still seems so surreal.
After successfully wandering my way through the park and back to the street, I walked over to the Lincoln Center. I live in New York City. I got on the subway, a little concerned about the time on Friday afternoon. But I survived the crowded subway and easily made it back to campus. I don't know where I'll go explore tomorrow, but I'm looking forward to it. I live in New York City.

this is not a test

This morning I woke up very early to the sound of an alarm going off. I slapped at the snooze button and was surprised when the buzzing continued. I was even more surprised to see the time read 6:50am. I had set it for 8:00am. Yet there was loud buzzing and it continued despite turning off the alarm. I opened the door to my room to find blinking lights from the fire alarm to accompany the loud noise. My suitemate joined me in the hall as we determined whether we actually need to vacate the building. Downstairs we could hear a ringing, much like when an unauthorized door has been opened. We concluded that this was not an emergency and each returned to our beds. Shortly thereafter, the noise ceased until my real alarm sounded to wake me at the appropriate hour.
Tonight I was watching a movie, getting ready to join a suitemate to watch an episode of Sex and the City, when I heard a very familiar alarm going off. Once again, I chose to ignore it. But then there was a knock on my door, and another suitemate informed that this was, in fact a drill. As the three of us exited we passed lots of firemen going into the building we were leaving. This alone made the evacuation worth it. NYC firemen, like most firemen, are hot.
We crossed the street to join the gathering crowd of people. And we waited. As you would expect when you have a large group of people, the story of what actually happened began to spread. One suitemate and I found ourselves next to a girl who lived on the floor that caused the whole fire alarm to sound in the first place. Turns out there was smoke and a fire. This was not a test. This was not a drill. There had been an actual fire! Thank goodness all those good-looking firemen were able to save the day.
After about 30 minutes of excitement we were able to return to our rooms. I missed Sex and the City, but my own story is nearly as fabulous.

case of the missing chinese food

One thing I have discovered about New York is that everything is very expensive. On Friday, I had a hamburger that cost $15. I'm of the opinion that if it is on a McDonald's menu it should not cost $15. Last night I was excited to discover a Chinese restaurant that was nearby, tasty and affordable. The best part was that I had leftovers which meant I got 2 meals for the price of 1. My dinner plan for tonight was last night's Chinese food. I had anticipated it all day.
After attending a (free) wine and cheese reception at school, I went home hungry and ready for dinner. I went to the fridge to get my Chinese food to reheat. Um, where is it? I live in a suite that has two refrigerators so I thought maybe I put it in the other one. No leftovers. So I called my friend to see if she remembered what I did with it. She didn't know either.
Here is the problem: I had been anticipating eating it all day. When you have something stuck in your mind that you want, it is very hard to give it up or accept something else. Even if there is the possibility of something better. I wanted that Chinese food. So I searched. I looked in my room to make sure I hadn't left it in there. I looked in the garbage to see if someone might have thrown it away. No, I was not still planning to eat it if it was found in either of those two places. Yes, I did thoroughly wash my hands after the second search.
Even after settling for the Thai noodle soup-for yet another meal- I still haven't been able to accept the fact that my Chinese leftovers are missing. So far the options of what might have happened to my missing Chinese food are as follows:
1. Someone ate it
2. Someone threw it away
3. I forgot it at the restaurant
I may never solve this mystery, but I do know I'll be needing to go get more of that Chinese food in order to rid myself of this hunger for what is missing.

TV and the city

One of the great things about living in New York is recognizing places that I've seen on TV. It isn't quite as exciting as a celebrity citing- which hasn't yet happened- but it is still pretty cool. Friday night I enjoyed happy hour across the street from Tom's Restaurant.
This should look familiar to all you Seinfeld fans. I have yet to actually go inside, but I've read that it doesn't look as familiar. And after walking past the windows, I can vouch that it is true.
Last night I ventured out to meet my friend French who is training in the city for the next month. We met up in Greenwich Village, but decided to head to Tribeca. We exited the subway and looked for signs of nightlife. I got very excited when I saw the Moondance Diner.
For all my FRIENDS fans, you might remember this from Monica's days with a blonde wig and fake boobs. For non-FRIENDS people, it was also where Mary-Jane worked in Spider Man.
Tonight my Jersey friend was in the city and came to see me in Morningside Heights. After our Chinese dinner, we decided dessert was a great idea. I suggested Tasti D Lite.

After recently watching Sex and the City, I've been feeling inspired by Charlotte to try this place. If you know S&C, then you might recognize this place featured in Season 6, Episode 88- The Ick Factor.
I've only just begun to find the many NYC landmarks featured on many TV shows. I don't anticipate all of them being food related. But I do like this theme so far.

I will survive!

Today is a beautiful, sunny day here in New York. I took a walking tour around the neighborhood and into Harlem. I'm only a few blocks from the world-famous Apollo Theater. Later I'm planning a shopping adventure on the Upper West Side to take advantage of the last day of the tax-free weekend. And tonight? Who knows. Maybe drinks at a local bar? A stroll through Times Square? Whatever I decide to do, I'll be doing it in NEW YORK CITY. And whatever fears and apprehension I might have about my decision to move here, there is comfort knowing that I live in New York City. And that is so freaking cool.

I will survive?

For those of you who know me, you know that Gloria Gaynor's "I will survive" is my signature karaoke song. But tonight as I was walking home, I began wondering if I really will survive.
First of all, I'm wondering if I will survive the winter. Dressed in a skirt and a tank top, I found that I was cold this evening- and it was only 71 degrees.
Secondly, I'm worried I might not survive the transition back to student. It has been a long time since I've had to study and write papers.
Lastly, I am afraid I might not survive the loneliness. I miss my friends. I miss my family. I miss my life.

At first I was afraid
I was petrified
Kept thinking I could never live
Without you by my side

I, I will survive...?

it's official

I'm now a New Yorker. At least for the next year.

I arrived in New York alone. I managed to get me and my stuff from the airport to my new housing all by myself. Meaning, I hired a car. Upon my arrival at my fancy and prestigious grad school, I was forced to trust the man standing on the curb to watch my 4 bags. He was in a uniform so I figured it was safe. I checked in, got my photo id (with yet another cute picture), and was given my keys. Then I went to get a big rolling tub, piled all my bags in it, and went up to my new room. It is surprisingly larger than I had expected. I was also relieved to find that my room was not one of the ones where the original hardwood floors had been covered with linoleum. It's actually not too bad as far as dorm rooms go. Except for one thing. No air-conditioning. It was kind of warm as I was unpacking all my stuff. Luckily the window provides some air. But sleeping last night with the window open was still pretty warm. And also quite noisy.
Today has been filled with a very long and tedious morning orientation, a picnic lunch on the lawn of the campus, and a fan purchase. I also wandered around the neighborhood discovering what it has to offer. Such as the nearest Starbucks with the Pumpkin Spice Latte. While walking I also rediscovered my enthusiasm about my decision to move. I'm in New York City, baby!

goodbye

Because I can't say it in my own words...

All my bags are packed
I'm ready to go
I'm standing here
Outside your door
I hate to wake you up to say goodbye

But the dawn is breaking
It's early morn
The taxis waiting
He's blowing the horn
Already I'm so lonesome I could cry

So kiss me and smile for me
Say that you'll wait for me
Hold me like you'll never let me go
'Cause I'm leaving on a jet plane
Don't know when I'll be back again
Oh, babe, I hate to go