Laura Lite

Now Where Did I Leave My Mojo?

2011-10-04T13:06:00.004+01:00

I have always been a little bit of a health and fitness fanatic. A couple of years ago I decided running and ever since I couldn't get enough, running a few races a year.

Unfortunately this year I seem to have lost my mojo. And I can't find where I left it.

Ever since I developed alopecia my life has been a lot more difficult. Although exercise always cheered me up and helped me to make sense of my life, I just can't find the motivation to snap out of my funk and get on with it. I've been torturing myself, trapped in grief when the cure is just across the street at the gym.

Not anymore. From today I am going to try harder. I am going to put on my running shoes and walk to the gym. I am going to get on the treadmill and walk. Maybe run. But at least I will be there and I will be doing something.

Have you lost your mojo? How did you find it again?

Rachel from In Spaces Between talks about how she got back on the detox wagon here.

Get her Clean Program Detox here.

Fitsugar's How To Get Back into a Fitness Routine is here.

Ten Years Ago Today

2011-09-11T13:09:00.004+01:00

Today is the 10-year anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks in New York City, Washington, D.C., and Shanksville, Pennsylvania.

When it happened I was in my senior year of high school in Greensburg, Pennsylvania. We were going into a Study Hall period when a friend of mine said that a plane had hit the World Trade Center. No one believed him; if we did, we thought it was a terrible accident. Then, when we went to our next class the teacher announced that a second plane had hit. Everyone knew it was a terrorist attack.

We began calling our families, but being so close to NYC (it's a 6-hour drive), the cell phone networks were overwhelmed and it was difficult to get through. I managed to speak to my mom and asked her to come and get me - lots of kids were being picked up by their parents at this point, and the school was letting anyone who wanted to go home to do so. My mom really wanted her kids close to her at this time, so she collected me.

When I got home, we watched the devastating news on TV, and I learned about the plane crash in D.C. and Shanksville, which was very close to us. It was scary to think that America could be so vulnerable; we lived in a small town but we were still worried that something could happen to us.

I looked for my two cats to cuddle with, but could only find one. Out of concern I began searching for the second, only to find that a window screen had been pushed out and he had ran outside. That was the most upsetting thing that happened to my family that day. I know it might sound cold, but we didn't know anyone who even knew anyone that had been a victim, or had even been present at the time of the 9/11 attacks; Ebony, my cat, was a member of my family who had gone missing.

Ebony returned a month later. Until I recently I didn't realise how 9/11 affected my life, but it did have a major effect:

I had a boyfriend attending University in Pittsburgh, PA, and had been going to visit him. For a while my mom put a stop to this as she was worried Pittsburgh could be hit.
I had been planning on attending University myself in Georgia, but again my mom wanted me close and so we focused on Universities in Pittsburgh. I ended up choosing a rubbish University and sacrificing my education.
I made a good friend at University who had grown up in Shanksville and who was the valedictorian of her high school that year. Rudy Giuliani came to speak at her graduation. She felt that 9/11 had been commercialised in her area.
My cousin and a family friend went to fight in Iraq. Luckily they both came home safe.

This evening I plan on attending the commemorative concert in front of the embassy in Grosvenor Square, especially as my husband's band is playing at it. It's important to remember the event as a community. Although I wasn't directly affected by the attacks of 9/11, along with many Americans my life was changed forever on that day.

Me, Alopecia-Style

2011-08-20T15:17:00.005+01:00

This is my big 'coming out.' A couple of weeks ago I had photos taken for Daniel Regan's Alopecia Project (top left and bottom right, above). He was inspired by a woman he met who had the disease (also American, might I add), they became fast friends, and so the project began.

He is currently looking to exhibit the photos in a London gallery, to benefit the Alopecia UK charity.

Daniel is a very kind person and a talented photographer. You can also read his blog over at Funny Time of Year.

The other two photos were taken at my latest treatment session with The Belgravia Centre on Saturday. Looking at these photos, you can see where my hair has started growing back.

So this is me, spots and all. I hope it inspires everyone who comes across it to be free and open about who and what they are.

The Tortoise and Hair 5k Fun Run/2 Mile Walk - Pittsburgh

2011-08-17T13:49:00.005+01:00

It's a funny story.

When Megan, an acquaintance from my hometown, moved to London in 2010, we jumped at the chance to meet up. It's a wonderful thing to befriend someone in a foreign country with whom you share a history.

She's become a great friend, and one of the first people I turned to when my hairloss began. Immediately she recalled another high school classmate who had alopecia and had written a blog about it. This fellow acquaintance was Amanda Shannon from Fringe Benefits, who I really didn't know but recognised as a face from my school days.

Talk about a miracle. It was Amanda's support in the initial stages that gave me hope. With an endlessly optimistic outlook, she inspired me to make the most of what I'd been dealt. You should definitely go read her blog, Fringe Benefits. I swear you won't be disappointed!

Anyway, all this is to say that Amanda has organised a Tortoise & Hair Race in Pittsburgh. It is a 5k fun run and 2 mile walk, taking place 9 October 2011. This is a fundraising event, benefitting the National Alopecia Areata Foundation. The NAAF uses the donations to fund research in the hopes of new treatment options for alopecia areata patients and, ultimately, to FIND A CURE!

So I'm asking all of my readers, friends, and family in and around Pittsburgh to please register to be on the start line on October 9th. It would mean a lot to me.

Downy Hair

2011-07-15T12:05:00.001+01:00

Several of my spots have some minor regrowth thanks to the minoxidil treatment. While most of them have got dark hairs growing back, some of them are blonde - and I mean blonde! It is so light that it actually shimmers. This is new. I have never had blonde hair, not even when I was born.

Not only is this hair brilliant blonde it is also extremely soft. It is like the down on baby birds. Apparently it is going to grow out to my natural color but until then I am enjoying petting my spots.

[img src: Colleens Creations @ Flickr]

Italy

2011-07-12T12:30:00.002+01:00

We went on my dream vacation to Italy back in April. Most of the holiday was spent in the palazzos, churches and museums of Florence looking at the Renaissance art I studied in Uni, but we also took a day trip to Rome which was fantastic. It was hands down the most wonderful experience of my life.

There was one evening in particular that was AMAZING. My darling husband and I decided to have the full Italian meal with all the courses: aperitivo, antipasto, primo, secondo and contorno, dolce and digestivo. Afterwards we took our full bellies to a free organ concert at one of the teeny tiny candlelit old neighbourhood churches. Then on the way back to the B&B we came upon an Italian Charlie Chaplin-style mime who had attracted a huge crowd in the main piazza. It was the most perfect romantic night. Oh to be back there again...

More photos on my Flickr.

10k for Alopecia UK

2011-07-10T21:57:00.001+01:00

In recent years I have enjoyed fundraising for various charities by running races. I have made a commitment to myself that from now on I will dedicate my fundraising to alopecia-related charities.

Today I ran the Asics London 10k for Alopecia UK. You can sponsor me here: http://www.justgiving.com/Laura-4-Alopecia.

My Husband, My Hero

2011-07-09T10:13:00.005+01:00

Since being diagnosed with Alopecia Steve has really stepped up to support me in the biggest ways. He brushes my hair for me and clears the shower drain every day so that I don't have to see how much hair I lose. He puts the minoxidil treatment on my spots every night before I go to bed. He tells me I'm beautiful 20 times a day. He makes me feel more loved than ever.

And You Thought I Was Strange

2011-07-07T21:46:00.002+01:00

Check out this video my younger bro, sister, niece, and future sister-in-law made:

It was all inspired by a trip to Taco Bell and a secretly hidden taco.

Aside from filming it, this really is typical of my family. Future-Sister-in-Law is one of us, that's for sure. I just wish I was there to partake in the hilarity! Love them.

About Alopecia Areata

2011-06-28T21:57:00.000+01:00

Alopecia Areata is an autoimmune disease, which means that your immune system attacks your own body, instead of fighting viral infections or bacteria. That is why it is so tricky to treat, and also why there is no cure. Other autoimmune diseases include lupus, type 1 diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Alopecia is more prevalent in the US than all of these combined. Once you have alopecia there is an increased chance of getting one of the more serious autoimmune diseases, which is why I had to have a blood test. I will have to have regular blood tests (looking at my antibodies and white blood cells) so that if I do get something life-threatening, like lupus, they can catch it early on.

They don't know what causes alopecia. The consensus among researchers at the moment is that something triggers the immune system to suppress the hair follicle, bu they don't yet know what the trigger is or whether it comes from outside or inside the body.

Alopecia can be hereditary. 20% of those diagnosed with alopecia have inherited the disease. If onset is before the age of 30 you are much more likely to have an immediate family member with alopecia. In my case I probably inherited it from my father, who had alopecia in his beard before I was born.

If you want to read more about alopecia, I suggest you check out http://www.naaf.org/site/PageServer and http://www.alopeciaonline.org.uk/index.asp

How It Started

2011-06-25T21:56:00.004+01:00

Two days before we left for Italy (the beginning of April), I found a bald spot on the back of my head. I went to a clinic, and then the doctor, who both said that I had scalp ringworm. This was because it was just a round spot that seemed red and had a bit of a ring around it. I was given some cream to use, but while we were in Italy I just lost more and more hair. The spot got bigger and then I got another spot in the back, at the top. I found it while we were on the train to Pisa. The entire time we were in the leaning tower my mind kept going back to the new spot, which was almost impossible to cover up.

When we got back 2 weeks later I literally went straight to the doctor's office to complain and demand some antifungal tablets, which is the usual treatment for scalp ringwom. They wrote me a prescription right then. After 30 days on the pills it wasn't getting better, so I went back to the doctor's for a referral to a dermatologist. Two weeks later the dermatologist gave me the diagnosis: I have alopecia areata, an autoimmune disease that results in (mostly) temporary hair loss. I cried. A lot. He prescribed me with some immunosuppressant cream and sent me away with an order for a blood test. I left without asking the questions that were now swimming around in my head.

A few days later I had an appointment at The Belgravia Trichological Centre in Victoria, which specialises in treating hair loss. They have treated hundreds of patients with alopecia areata. Although the treatment plan was costly, Steve and I decided to go for it as we found it impossible to do nothing. Treatment includes nightly application of topical minoxidil 12.5% - a very high dose (and one of the only proven treatments for alopecia) and a laser comb to use twice weekly. This is proven to work with male pattern baldness but studies have not been done on alopecia sufferers. I was also given special shampoo and conditioner and some vitamins.

I've been following this treatment for about 6 weeks now. I haven't seen results yet but these usually don't show until 4-6 months in. The dermatologist has told me that although my hair loss is more extensive than most, he expects my hair will grow back with in a year. I have plans to get a second opinion in the near future.

My Dad

2011-06-20T13:39:00.007+01:00

Happy Birthday to my dad and a Happy (belated) Father's Day as well!

My parents have been divorced for as long as I can remember, but my dad has always been there for me. He is a loving, sensitive, and funny man. I can always count on him to cheer me up and bring me out of a slump.

I can also count on him if I need a good cry.

I love you Dad!

Chocolate Tasting

2011-06-14T14:29:00.004+01:00

Last week I went to my first ever chocolate tasting with the Fulham Women's Institute at Rococo Chocolates' venue on Mortcomb St. Founder Chantal Cody and award-winning chocolatier Laurent Couchaux told us all about the chocolate-making process and how each of them got into the chocolate business. They have some fascinating stories that made the tasting even more fun! If you are thinking of doing a chocolate tasting, I strongly recommend it. Here's what to expect:

When we arrived we were given white jasmine tea to cleanse the palate between chocolates as it's got such a subtle taste. You can also taste with water (at room temperature) or port wine. Apparently coffee or anything stronger is a major no-no.

At each seat there were 4 chocolates from their summer menu (they have a rotation of 3 or 4 chocolates each season) : lemon, basil & olive oil; apricot & almond; ceylon earl grey tea; and pistachio, saffron & cardamom. Then Laurent talked us through how each chocolate was made, and the different flavours we may be experiencing as we tasted them.

We were given a pen to jot down notes. Mine basically included things like 'tasty, yummy, want some more..' :) Afterwards we were given a gift bag including a box of 12 chocolates and 3 mini chocolate bars, as in the photo above. That didn't last long! I wish it had though...

Haircut!

2011-06-10T14:04:00.004+01:00

This week I got my hair cut. It happened on my lunch break. Lizzie, my boss who you may remember from this post, cut my hair because she likes to play with scissors (she also happens to be a hairdresser). And this is the result...

Cute, fun, and young - perfect for me! The best part is it the length adds a lot of volume but it's still long enough to cover my spots. Hooray!

Yesterday...

2011-06-08T17:48:00.006+01:00

... I found a lovely new walking route to the office. This route takes me through St James's Park (I normally go past Buckingham Palace) and also stops by Husband's office so I got to drop him off there. In the park I found a really cool dog named Poppy. Poppy's owner was kind enough to stop for a minute so I could take a good photo of her.

So sweet!

At work I spend my time bossing around the day-dreamy Carlita.

And obeying my grumpy boss Lizzie.

Seriously though, these two make work so much fun! Love the girls.

Then I went home and gobbled up some sushi (but too fast to take a photo!). Oops.

Adapting to Alopecia

2011-06-06T13:27:00.004+01:00

Hey there! Like my new look? No? Well I know it's not the best photo but too bad so sad... because this is it. After a couple of months of enduring extensive hair loss I have been officially diagnosed with alopecia areata. A couple of weeks later I am finally grieving less and opening up to my future a bit more.

I had been putting off calling my family in the States for a couple of weeks as I didn't really want to talk about my hair loss anymore. This weekend I tackled it and turns out it was very therapeutic! I am very lucky to have such a positive, supportive family who are able to give me lots of encouragement. My husband and friends have all been wonderful as well of course - thanks guys!

Today I decided not to hide my bald spots with my hairdo, only covering the 2 big ones as I fear people might gasp if they saw them! But I have to get used to the possibility that people will look at me strangely.

So I will fill you in a bit more later, but for now let's just say that at the moment I am feeling okay about living with alopecia.

Summertime

2011-05-20T13:36:00.003+01:00

Winter is my favourite season by far, but here's what I love about summer:

picnics

running on the beach

waking up to birdsong

brightly painted toenails

ponytails

barbecues

weekend markets

sunglasses

maxi dresses (see above)

picnics

ice cream cones

flip flops

frisbee in the park

fruit salad

Notice one thing I don't like? *suntans* If you notice in the photo above, I'm so white I glow! Tanning for me is a big cancer-causing no-no.

Book Review - Committed

2010-02-09T12:35:00.008Z

★★★★☆ - I've just finished reading Committed, the new book by Elizabeth Gilbert (of Eat, Pray, Love fame). The book is sort of a mix of autobiography, reference, and self-help.

Basically, Elizabeth's Brazillian partner comes to live with her in Philadelphia. Unfortunately he's not really supposed to do this with his visa and is deported. The only solution to their predicament is marriage, which they proceed with reluctantly as they have both been through very difficult divorces in the past. To make peace with the situation Elizabeth reads anything she can get her hands on regarding the history of marriage in the western world, while at the same time travelling the eastern world (there is nowhere else for them to be together).

I found it to be very interesting, though it was not un-put-down-able. It made me think about my marriage in a different way. I know there was a scramble of readers wanting to pick it up, so have you read it?

So now I'm onto Sherlock Holmes: A Study In Scarlet. I'll let you know what I think.

A Student Again

2010-02-05T22:13:00.004Z

There is a thing is in motion that could change my life forever. If this comes through (to be revealed in about 6-8 weeks) I plan to go back to Uni in October. I would use my credits from the States to complete an Open University degree in Art History. This is perhaps the most momentous thing that will have happened to me since my wedding. I love learning and enjoy working towards something - especially when that something is my future (although one could argue that we are always working toward our futures).

I'm even getting ready for it, although perhaps subconsciously. Last night I proofread a hand-written document for my husband and it felt good. And as Mr. Charlie said to me this evening, 'we even have a desk.'

PS - How hot is this Barry M lipstick in 'vibrant pink?'

[img src]

Something I Don't Usually Talk About

2010-01-25T15:23:00.006Z

I was mugged 4 1/2 years ago, almost to the day. It was somewhat violent; they thought I had a concussion. I was bruised and bleeding from the head in 2 places. This was in a public place, with lots of people and cars around at the time. No one helped me.

It's something I don't usually talk about, because I don't need sympathy: it was 4 1/2 years ago. The only 'scarring' I have is that when someone runs up behind me it scares the bejayzus out of me - even if they're just going for a jog.

Now the reason I bring this up is because last night I had a nightmare in which I was being led knife-point down a public street. I saw people around and mouthed the words at them: 'Help me.' They ignored me, staring defiantly. I was led to my inevitable doom.

So I guess I have another scar: a lack of faith in human compassion. That's why this story is so heart-warming.

[img src: flickr]

Spa Day

2010-01-21T10:28:00.003Z

Last Friday I visited a day spa for 4 hours of self-indulgence. It was lovely. I first had an infrared therapy sauna treatment for 1 hour and then a steam shower. This was followed by an hour full-body Swedish massage, which I'd never had before. I went for a run that morning so the calf massage really did the trick. Then I had a 'Peel'n'Plump' facial and really saw the results! Afterwards there was an eyebrow tweeze (I fear eyebrow waxing) and a manicure - truly the most relaxing day of my life.

[img via flickr]

My New Baby

2010-01-20T20:45:00.000Z

I am now the proud owner of an iPhone. It is the coolest thing I have ever had. I hadn't realised that it essentially is a computer and that I could use it for everything.

So far I am using the tube map, twitterific, facebook, popsugar, my email, news headlines, grocery shopping, and of course a bunch of games.

My favourite thing by far is that it makes me feel so connected. I can send emails, tweets, fb updates, and texts in just a couple of seconds - fab!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

The Case of the Missing Photos

2009-11-17T12:49:00.004Z

It has been 2 weeks - TWO WEEKS - since I came ~~home~~ back from the States and still I have not uploaded any photos! Not to worry dears, tonight I will accomplish this simple task.

Meanwhile, I have spent the past two weeks readjusting to being here while many, many of my loved ones are over there. I've been mopey, I've been down, and -what seems to have done the trick- I've been busy! The result of this busy-ness is that I have been left with a bit of a chest infection. I went to the doctor's this morning (for free! I need to focus on these little things that are nice about living here) and got a prescription for antibiotics, so hopefully things will pick up.

Unfortunately I have used up all of my paid sick leave and therefore must grin and bear it. So have some sympathy people, I'll upload the pics tonight!!

[img src]

Happy 40th Birthday, Husband!

2009-11-05T15:30:00.002Z

♥ Today is Mr. Charlie's 40th birthday, and I wish him a very happy one. ♥

While I admit it is vey strange to think that I am married to a 40-year-old when I am only in my mid-twenties, I am so proud to be his wife. He is an amazingly good person and my best friend.

There are lots of celebrations:

Last night at midnight Tigress the cat and Peanut, Fievel, Fish, Chip, Horatio, and Pistachio - the fish - gave him a signed card and a balloon, mug, mints, and a singing badge (pin). I gave him a blue-ray disk player (not my choice) and a card with lots of '40' confetti stuck inside.

This evening we are going to our local Mexican restaurant for dinner, where we plan to sample as many cocktails as possible. There may also be a few surprises in store.

This weekend I am baking him a cake with my stepson and making a special dinner before we have a family birthday night at Battersea Park.

Hopefully by then I'll be used to it.

What I'm Reading Wednesday - Jane Eyre

2009-10-07T15:05:00.003+01:00

I decided to go back to an old favourite this week and am rereading Jane Eyre. There's something so magical about curling up under the blankets with this book, especially this time of year. It's like comfort food for the imagination.

[img via]

Autumn in America

2009-09-29T10:37:00.008+01:00

Hello there! Remember me? I'm the one who disappeared a few weeks ago, thought never to return. Well good news! I'm back. :)

The reason for my absence is a happy one. Last week Mr. Charlie and I bought our tickets to go back to America for Halloween. Since then I have been playing crazy logic puzzle games in my head, trying to figure out when we will see everyone and where we will be staying, transportation, activities, etc. Suffice to say that we will not be having a real vacation - but that doesn't mean we won't be having lots of fun!

I am flying out solo to Boston on the 23rd to spend the weekend with my younger brother, who works at the World Trade Center there. This isn't my first time visiting Boston and it will be nice to move on from the more traditional touristy things there. We have got so many fun plans, like going for an Italian dinner in the North End, grabbing something sweet from Mike's Pastry, visiting the aquarium, doing the duck tour, and stopping by a Boston Beer Works. I'm especially looking forward to this as it's been ages since he and I have been able to spend some time together.

The following Monday both Mr. Charlie and I come into Pittsburgh (less than half an hour apart!) to visit with the rest of my immediate family. We will be spending time with everyone and are planning lots of Halloween-y things: trick-or-treating, pumpkin carving, a hayride at the pumpkin patch, etc. I love fall, it's my favourite season. As America is my favourite place, and I will be with my favourite people, I could not be more excited.

[img via]

Swine Flu

2009-09-15T14:48:00.004+01:00

Wellll, my weekend plans kind of went out of the window this weekend as I could barely even get myself out of bed. I managed to make eggs for breakfast on Saturday, but I had to force them down as I couldn't taste them and had no appetite. After a sip of coffee I knew I couldn't make it through the day with my pounding headache and achy body so I went back to bed. I wondered briefly whether I might be depressed (quite a few bad things happened last week) but I was strangely very happy. Mr Charlie was able to get me out the door for a little walk around the neighborhood (I wore a sweater while everyone was wearing tanks or tees) and then I ended up sleeping for 21 hours.

Sunday I woke up and thought everything was okay. I was still rundown but not quite so knackered (tired + exhausted). A couple of hours later I had a bit of a sore throat and a little cough. Then the fatigue set in again. Back to bed, where I spent the rest of the day reading and knitting. Sleep happened of course, but it was less comatose and more like catnaps than on Saturday.

Yesterday I finally got around to the doctor's and explained that I only had fevers in the evening, tiredness, and no other symptoms other than a tiny little cough (normally I never cough, so felt this was worth mentioning). She informed me that my symptoms sounded like a mild strain of swine flu!

So here I am. I've taken my first pill of Tamiflu and am in (voluntary) quarantine until Friday. The tiredness is still there, but I am able to move about for short periods of time. My company doesn't want me back until Monday when I'll have finished the course of antivirals, just in case. I've now got some cold-like symptoms so am thinking it's probably for the best.

Mr. Charlie went to Spain ~~to escape~~ for work and won't be back until Saturday so it's up to me to entertain myself. I've finished two books and two scarves. If only I could get yarn delivered so I could start a new one...

[img via]

Weekend Plans

2009-09-11T14:44:00.004+01:00

This week has been crazy in a good way and a bad way. I may or may not post about the bad things that have happened, but you can be satisfied that the good have managed to distract my attentions and relax me a bit. So let's recap what I've been doing:

- running a 5k
- joining the committee of my WI
- watching movies @ Riverside Studios
- learning to sew with zippers @ The Make Lounge
- eating healthily and going to the gym

I am looking forward to a relaxing weekend, starting with a chilled Blockbuster movie night this evening. Maybe I'll do some knitting too as I'd like to finish Mr. Charlie's scarf before autumn really sets in.

Mr. Charlie is not working Saturday - good news! We're planning to go to Wellington Arch, which I wanted to do months ago when I learned you could go inside. I will also be doing a bit of watercolours because I want to see whether I have any potential for illustration. Mr. Charlie is planning on finishing the new kitchen floor (pictures to come!). The Thames Festival will be going on too, and we may find our way up there for an exciting evening.

On Sunday I'd like to go to Spitalfield's Market and have a look for fabrics on Brick Lane. And I just might cook an exciting dinner (and share with you)!

Hope you all have a lovely weekend!

[img via]

What I'm Reading Wednesday - The Friday Night Knitting Club

2009-09-09T22:26:00.002+01:00

New feature! What I'm Reading Wednesday is a great way for me to keep track of what books I'm reading and what I think of them. This is especially relevant since I've started using Bookmooch. I've already mooched 29 books! Hopefully this will provide motivation to read one book a week as well.

So this week I am reading The Friday Night Knitting Club. I'd been wanting to read it since I heard that Julia Roberts was starring in the new movie. The book is especially relevant to me now that I've got more into knitting.

I'm only just past page 50 so it's hard to judge, but it is definitely full of fluff. It's nice to read a good chicklit novel once in a while of course!

5K Race Day

2009-09-06T18:10:00.006+01:00

Well today was the day. Woke up ridiculously early and took my time waking up and getting ready to go. I drank a giant cup of coffee and had a healthy breakfast of granola with Greek yogurt. Thanks to Mr. Charlie pushing me out the door we managed to make it to Hyde Park just in time. We met David and Kle, who was waiting for my arrival to join in with the embarrassing warm-up. A few grapevines later and I was feeling suitably de-groggified. It was time.

We took some photos and said goodbye to the Husbands. We walked over to the '35 min +' group (finish time was expected 40-45 min) and waited 50 minutes before we even got to start running. Somehow the time seemed more like 15 as I hadn't seen Kle in months (too long!) so we had plenty to catch up about.

The talking didn't really stop the whole way through even though we were out of breath much of the time. There were balloons and banners everywhere. There were cheers around every bend. We were passed by a clown and a woman pushing a stroller; I smiled the entire run through. The atmosphere was amazing.

Obviously we hadn't been training together, but our running styles complemented each other perfectly: Kle slowed me down when I felt like sprinting and I sped her up when she felt like dropping. And I'm happy to note there was not a single time when I felt like gasping, 'Go on, save yourself!'

Towards the end Husbands called out to us, 'The finish line is just round that corner!' so we sprinted. Together we made it in less than 38 minutes. I was so high immediately following that I felt like I could do it all again, right then and there. I didn't though. Instead I grabbed my goody bag and downed another bottle of water. We said our goodbyes, Mr. Charlie and I got some well-earned McDonald's takeaway, I took a bath and then a nap... It would probably feel like a dream if my feet weren't so sore.

A big thank-you to all of you who donated - I managed to reach £150 (some in pledges)! Also thanks to Mr. Charlie for being so supportive and maintaining my excitement. Last but definitely not least, thanks so much to Kle for helping me along - couldn't have done it without you hun!

More photos here and remember, it's not too late to donate.

Selling Stuff

2009-09-03T13:56:00.003+01:00

When we were visiting Arundel last week we found a little gallery selling lots of different art and I found some charcoal drawings there that made me think, hey I could do that - and then I thought, hey I DO do that...

So the other day I created an Etsy shop to sell my recent drawings. I'm going to the life drawing session again this Saturday so hopefully I'll come out with a few more good ones. What do you think? I know my photography skills leave a lot to be desired, and I've still got to create a shop banner - but I think I may be onto something here.

I've also become a seller on eBay and I've listed this dress that I bought a while ago from Oli. I loved it but it just didn't fit me correctly. :(

So what do you think of my recent endeavors? I'm very interested in any constructive criticism you're able to send my way!

Fencing Fancies

2009-09-02T12:19:00.001+01:00

I am contemplating taking a fencing class. A friend of mine has just acquired a fencing club and has offered myself and an accompanying individual a free beginner's course. I've recently discovered that Mr. Charlie did a bit of fencing in school (he went to a posh boys' school) but he says he's too busy. I'm not sure any of my friends will be interested but I might enjoy it so am considering giving it a go. The only thing is that there will be pointy bits poked at me and this may be too frightening. Thoughts anyone?

img via george eastman house @ flickr

Tattoo Terrors

2009-09-01T21:09:00.000+01:00

My tattoo is on my right shoulder blade. It hurt very badly and it is the colour of henna. It is my name in Arabic, and I got it for the following reasons:

(1) I wanted a tattoo
(2) I think Arabic is a beautiful language
(3) I got my name written in Arabic at a University fair
(4) I figured that my name was something I'd never get tired of

Now I live in London, where there are a fair few of Arabic-speaking people who sometimes call out my name! So I am a bit tired of it but not so much that I truly regret it or want it removed.

I have had my tattoo for the past 4 years or so. About 6 months ago it started to get dry and itchy. I've been putting moisturiser on it ever since, but to no avail. When Mr. Charlie and I were in the Isle of Wight we passed a tattoo parlour. I asked the tattooist what he thought and he said that it was infected. How??? No idea. Usually only new or recently touched up tattoos get infected. This is a mystery. Anyway, he told me to go to the doctor, which I finally did on Friday.

On my doctor's face was a mixture of disgust and pity, as she repeatedly told me that it looked very sore. So I walked away with a prescription for a meningitis-fighting dose of antibiotics to take 4 times a day, for one week. The following week I am to put antibiotic cream on it and then I see her again the week after that. I really wish I'd gone sooner!

She Came. She Left.

2009-08-31T09:22:00.008+01:00

Well the highly anticipated highlight of my year is over. My amazing Sister and adorable neice spent last week with myself and Mr. Charlie on their first-ever trip to London. It was hilarious, frustrating, and relaxing all at the same time. Mostly it was just fun though.

Initially I couldn't recognise either of them. Sister now wears glasses 24/7 and has let her gray hairs grow in. Her daughter has grown (a lot!), is skinny, and looks like a beanpole. Because of this her face looks very different. I was deeply saddened that I'd missed all of these changes. However they are the same people who I have been chatting with on the phone for the past 18 months. I couldn't get enough.

We did so many things, but my favourite has to be when we took the train down to spend the day in Arundel. It was just a lovely day, in a lovely town, with some lovely people. We didn't do much other than exploring. The arts and crafts markets were open and the Castle, too. Unfortunately we could have used a bit more time to get a good look at the antique shops but we weren't too disappointed by that. We had fish and chips for dinner at a beautiful restaurant. Then we went home.

Mr. Charlie was working most of the week, so usually it was just us girls. We spent a lot of time cooking at home and Sister helped me to organise my kitchen cupboards (yay!). We did do some sightseeing but not so much that it was overwhelming.

I think Sister's favourite was when I took her for her surprise night on the town and we went to see Billy Elliot, which is basically at the end of my street. Unfortunately we discovered that the Victoria Palace Theatre is cramped and the seats are tiny, but it did not stop us from enjoying the fabulous show. We had so much fun and it was both hilarious and heartwarming. The best curtain call ever!

My neice definitely loved the Natural History Museum, but she may have enjoyed the National Gallery even more. Either way, there was plenty for her to see and do in each. I'm sure her favourite was hanging out with Mr. Charlie and my stepson when Sister and I went out. They had a lot of fun playing wii and she cried when we said goodbye. I think the hand-embroidered tote bag that I made for her was much appreciated as well - she wore it all the time!

Now they are gone and I spent the last two days moping. It's hard because I haven't been back since March '08 and saying goodbye just made me feel even more homesick. This, compounded with the fact that what I was most looking forward to this year is over, left me feeling very blue. So I spoke with Sister yesterday and cried. A lot. And then I decided that was enough, and it was time to move on. So I cleaned the sheets and made a lovely dinner of sausage and apple cobbler for Mr. Charlie and I with raspberry custard tarts for dessert. I also baked a loaf of bread and everything seemed right. Now life does feel like it has just gone back to normal, which isn't so bad.

We're going back for a visit at the end of October so I don't have a long wait to see them again. Until then I'll comfort myself with all of the photos. If only Sister was less than 3,700 miles away...

Drawing Is For Life

2009-08-17T13:11:00.008+01:00

On Saturday I went to a £10 life drawing session held in the function room of a pub in Islington. As I hadn't drawn in almost 4 years I thought I'd have lost any skills I may have picked up from my fantastic teacher in college, but went anyway. I remembered how much I'd loved drawing before and how soothing it could be.

Unfortunately I was about 15 minutes late as the Victoria line was suspended for maintenance (what's new?). I walked into the darkened room, where a ~~naked~~ nude woman was just moving into a new pose. There were about 12 very silent people crowded around the perimeters and scribbling intently. Self-consciously I mumbled to the man attending that I had already registered and how did I get supplies? Paper was only 20p/sheet and I grabbed some charcoal and an eraser as they were at the top of the box.

I sat down just in time to catch the last 5-minute pose and roughly sketched something resembling a stick figure. When the model assumed her first 35-minute pose I tried to remember the steps I'd learned at university. It all came flooding back when the tape deck was switched on and Tchaikovsky (one of my favourite composers) filled the room.

Step 1 - Block the figure into light shapes.

Step 2 - Ever so lightly draw a figure outline.

Step 3 - Layer shading to create definition. Squinting helps.

Finally I had a finished piece! I loved my drawing but was embarrassed to let anyone see it so I hid it quickly. The process was repeated a second time before we took a break. I went to the loo downstairs to wash the charcoal off and found the model in her dressing gown and sneakers with her hands under the dryer - very strange! When I went to the bar for a cappuccino I met this really nice guy who works in 3-D animation, which I found very intimidating as I never even finished my art degree. The second half of the session was much more challenging. I really needed the entire 35 minutes to create anything. The 5-minute sketches were still too much for me and I came up with a lot of stick people!

At the end we did a kind of show-and-tell with our masterpieces and I was very surprised at how everyone marvelled at my creations. The man who organised it kept oohing and aahing, and another actually whistled! I left feeling elated and much more relaxed than I'd ever felt before, even after an intense yoga session.

Goals!

2009-08-09T21:17:00.002+01:00

I have finally joined 43 things. It was surprisingly easy to list everything I'd like to achieve for the time being, from finishing an uncompleted scarf to buying a house to travelling to India. Obviously a few of these things will be on my list for quite some time. But I think it's good to have an idea of my goals in life... even if there does seem to be a lot of them! Enjoy! :)

1. open my own savings account
2. phone my family every week
3. become a UK citizen
4. learn to swim
5. make a perfect creme brulee
6. finish the scarf I'm knitting
7. sew myself some trousers
8. take a cooking class
9. learn to shop well at a thrift store
10. go to paris
11. get my UK driver's licence
12. take steve to a drive-in movie
13. make popcorn in a pan
14. travel to india
15. get an iphone
16. buy a holga camera and take beautiful photographs
17. run a marathon
18. spend a day in new york
19. improve my italian
20. own a pair of designer shoes
21. go horse-back riding
22. stop using plastic bags
23. write a book
24. have a 5th qnniversary party
25. travle to italy
26. finish my bachelor's degree in art history
27. knit an afghan
28. buy a camcorder and make movies
29. buy a house
30. learn to drive a motorcycle
31. get a small dog
32. go scuba-driving
33. travel the rest of Europe
34. learn sign language
35. wish on a shooting star
36. own my own business
37. learn to salsa dance
38. learn to play tennis
39. work on a farm
40. own a mac
41. have a place for everything
42. learn to play guitar
43. have good handwriting

Weekend Plans

2009-08-07T16:55:00.006+01:00

This weekend will (hopefully) be much more relaxing than the past few have been. I probably shouldn't jinx it though as I just know some things will come up! Luckily Mr. Charlie isn't working so we can spend some time together. Anyway, here's how it stands for now:

Tonight I am going to my close friend and (former) colleague MT's leaving drinks. It should be fun, but I'll just be staying for a few as I haven't really got the time to indulge this evening. Besides I will be seeing him tomorrow as well...

Saturday morning I've got to run my weekly errands of grocery store, post office, etc. and will then peruse the lovely Pimlico charity shops for a bit. I've also got to sort as much out as I can in my new 'sewing space.' In the evening I'm going to see Hello Dolly in Regent's Park open air theatre with MT and one of his friends. We may have a picnic (yay!) if the weather's behaving.

Sunday I'll probably cook a little fry-up and then Mr. Charlie and I are off to a barbecue hosted by a new friend of mine from Women's Institute. Cross your fingers and hope it doesn't rain!

[img cred: independent]

A Special Sewing Space

2009-08-04T14:16:00.001+01:00

Since purchasing my sewing machine about 6 months ago, I've hardly actually sewn anything. And no, I'm not that lazy. This is actually the result of a poorly-planned guest bedroom/home office. The desk that we have had for the past 3 years was only meant to be temporary as it's just not big enough for anything other than a computer. Unfortunately we didn't have the space for anything more as we had too much junk in our small guest bedroom, and I can't sew anywhere else as it hurts my back.

So Mr. Charlie and I wandered down to IKEA on Sunday, where we picked up a lovely large desk that he put together last night. Now inspired, we are going to put new shelves up, get a new chest of drawers and some bookshelves. Mind you, this will take some time (and money), so will unfortunately not be completed by my sister's visit at the end of August. With the help of the following inspirations, my new sewing space will be up and running by the time she visits next year.

Online Sewing Spaces

1. Lovely Design

2. Craft Addict

3. Sarah Seitz

Plenty to ponder...

[img cred]

The Happy Campers

2009-08-01T13:09:00.000+01:00

Mr. Charlie and I have just got back from our first ever camping trip! We had a rejuvenating mini-break on the Isle of Wight where we got up to all sorts of things, most of which can be seen here on my Flickr stream.

On our first day on the island we went to a donkey sanctuary, visited the Isle of Wight Studio Glass (coincidentally in connection with Mdina Glass, which we visited in Malta last year), where I blew a glass bubble, and visited one of the many beautiful, picturesque towns on the island.

On the second day we walked around the zoo, sponsored some lemurs, and strolled around the amazing Garlic Farm, where we grabbed some garlic for planting in September. We had a romantic evening, all curled up in our sleeping bags while a thunderstorm battered the tent. When we emerged in the night it was only to go to the loo, but the skies had cleared so we ended up spending a few minutes gazing at the stars (something you don't get to see in London).

The third day was much more subdued, and we visited Shanklin Chine, an amazing natural phenomenon. Then we went to The Needles park and took the chairlift down to the sea, Mr. Charlie tried to teach me to skip stones, and we watched some of the most exciting fireworks I've ever seen.

On the fourth and final day, Mr. Charlie and I explored the ancient Carisbrooke Castle before getting very, very lost (and very, very cross) on our way to the ferry. But the sunshine on the top-deck of the boat cheered us up and now we have only happy memories!

Understanding that the stressors of a camping trip can be make-or-break for any relationship, I am pleased to announce that ours was the former. Not that our marriage was at all rocky before; rather this trip seemed to reinforce the idea that we must function as a team. So we have both been cheerfully helping each other with our chores ever since - an amazing result!

Sienna's a Surprising Choice

2009-07-24T17:38:00.000+01:00

No joke.

Mr. Charlie's band played for a wedding in London this afternoon. Not sure who the couple were, but Sienna Miller made an appearance as she was a reader! I can't imagine who would give her such an important role at their wedding when she just (allegedly) broke up a marriage. Interesting...

Weekend Plans

2009-07-10T21:43:00.000+01:00

Today I went grocery shopping at Sainsbury's and made some tasty thai green chicken curry for dinner. Now I am playing Destination London with Mr. Charlie and my younger stepson G. It's a great game that takes you around to the hot spots in London as a taxi driver. Before bed I am planning on baking some cheesecake brownies (more on that to come), which I will be taking with us to...

My father-in-law's birthday party tomorrow! I'm actually really looking forward to this. I bought a dress and everything. But first I have to go to the gym for Body Combat.

On Sunday Mr. Charlie's working so I'm hoping to go to Kew Gardens (after Body Step, of course). I haven't been there in ages and am dying to see it in the height of summer. Plus I'd like to try out this Way2GoGuide.

Somethings New

2009-07-09T22:06:00.000+01:00

I love this list of How To Make Today Memorable. My day certainly was.

I tried something new. I did my first ever clothing swap hosted by the The Make Lounge, which is quickly becoming one of my favourite places. Apparently these swaps are all the rage as everyone and their mother are trying to save money and recycle. So I did my part for humanity and came away with 6 new-to-me items for my wardrobe!

I made a new friend. A work acquaintance came with me and we had a lovely time, and even went to grab a bite to eat afterwards. It's fun getting to know someone new.

I had a real life experience. We went to Ziloufs in Islington for dinner. It was a very unique dining experience, and was just amazing. The interiors are gorgeous yet cozy and they had a pianist and bar singer. I'd really love to go there with Mr. Charlie sometime, especially as the prices were surprisingly low.

So all in all, tonight has left me high on life - a great feeling.

[img src]

4am Last Night

2009-06-25T14:32:00.000+01:00

Alone in my bed (Mr. Charlie away at the moment). Wake up to the sounds of growling. Realise it's only my cat. Then realise that there must be a burglar (!!!). Quiet. Am very quiet. Listening carefully, straining to hear broken glass or other robbery-type noises. Then hear cat outside window, howling as though 'in heat.' Take deep breath. Everything is okay.

Wait, everything not okay! My cat still growling. Cannot sleep. Get up, put coat on over pj's. Go outside. Very, very quiet. Can't believe this is middle of London. Hear cat, find cat, chase cat far, far away. Back to bed, my cat purring beside me.

The end.

[img src]

A Father's Day Without My Father

2009-06-21T22:35:00.000+01:00

Yesterday was my dad's 60th birthday. Today is Father's Day. My siblings took Dad bowling and had a great time, but I was heartbroken that I couldn't be there. I must admit I shed a few tears while I spoke to him this morning! But it's not all bad - I knew I was going to get some family time, just from a different family: I spent Father's Day with my father-in-law and his partner.

First I went to Greenwich Market, where Sabina (father-in-law's partner) has a stall selling recycled denim cushions and promoting her curtain business.

I spent most of my time there wandering around, when I bought a Wasgij from Compendia and some coffee from the coffee stall. I even had a go behind the stall!

At the end of the day we packed everything up and took it to her studio.

Afterwards we headed back to her house, where a pot roast and a bottle of red awaited to reward ourselves for our hard work!

We all had a lovely day, and it was heartwarming to know that I do have a family here to help me through my most serious cases of homesickness. What joy!

Summer Crafts Night (2)

2009-06-20T23:04:00.001+01:00

Well the photos are finally up! Have a look here. xx

Engagement: Promises + Dreams

2009-06-20T10:23:00.000+01:00

My best friend S in America has finally gotten engaged! I woke up to her text and just screamed. Due to the time difference I have yet to hear the story, but I know that she wasn't expecting it and it will have been unbelievably heart-melting. She's been waiting for a proposal for a few years now (S&B have been together for 4 years) so this was exciting news for me. It got me thinking about my engagement and how that came about - not quite romantic but still sweet and exciting. Since our 3rd anniversary is approaching in about a month, a bit of reminiscing would be nice.

I think I was sitting on the floor in my bathroom and we were discussing our future together. Mr. Charlie was living in the UK but touring the States with the Welsh Guards' Band for a few months when we met. I met him in the first couple of weeks and we fell madly in love over the following month or so. Time was tick-tocking though and he was due back in the UK in a few weeks. We were meeting in Fort Worth, TX soon and didn't want to say goodbye for good.

I remember him wishing I were free to go to London with him, and then my epiphany that (!!!) YES! I could come. What was holding me back? Not a job - I'd left that to talk to him on the phone. Not my college education - that was suspended as well, do to other circumstances. There were only 3 things to concern me: (1) my friends (2) my family (3) my cat. Well, we decided that my family and friends could always come to visit, and we would of course go back to visit at least twice a year (just the once nowadays). Tigress could come over thanks to the PETS scheme. That settled it.

Except then I realised that I did not want to go to the UK only to be broken up in a week. I needed some sort of commitment from him in order to up sticks and leave my country and loved ones. I carefully explained that while obviously a marriage would be too much too soon, an engagement would be satisfactory - but were we ready?

The answer it seems, was yes, as we spent the next few days in Fort Worth drinking champagne and looking for the perfect engagement ring. A happy ending was in the cards after all.

So what's your engagement story? Was it romantic and unexpected? And which one of you proposed? Or was it more logical and calculated, like my experience?

Weekend Plans (2)

2009-06-19T10:57:00.000+01:00

This Friday's romantic dinner is a creamy chicken and pepper couscous. I think we'll avoid the wine as I wasn't feeling well during the week. We'll probably cuddle up and watch Law & Order, maybe I'll do some knitting.

On Saturday I'm doing my weekly body combat and body balance. I was going to do body pump as well, but chickened out! I plan on spending the rest of my day sewing and knitting, painting my nails, and uploading a ton of photos onto Flickr, while watching two of my all-time favourite films: Kissing Jessica Stein and Love&Sex. I will also be calling my dad to wish him a happy birthday.

Sunday I will be calling my dad again to wish him a happy Father's Day. In the morning I'm off to Greenwich Market as my father-in-law's partner has a stall there. Mr. Charlie is working so Father's Day is my responsibility this year. Then I will be relaxing and perhaps finishing up the scarf I'm knitting for my husband (just in time for summer!).

What are your plans?

Summer Crafts Night (1)

2009-06-17T12:45:00.000+01:00

Last night was the Summer Craft Night at The Make Lounge. The friendly ladies who run the East London Craft Guerilla were there to help while we all tried our hands at various craft kits. I chose the felted wool mouse for my cat Tigress and also picked up the stuffed pear kit to work on at home. I have to say that the best part of the evening was the cheesecake brownie that I got to go with a glass of red (a healthy dinner)! The mouse was adorable and Tigress had a great time playing with it last night. It was a good sign when it didn't fall apart! My friend V who went with me got the lavender heart which turned out to be lovely. We had a great time chatting amongst ourselves and with the other crafters. Pictures to come soon.

[img src]

Weekend Plans (1)

2009-06-12T14:43:00.001+01:00

I hope the weather stays nice this weekend, because I have got quite a bit on. Tonight I'm going for a run. Then I'm making this week's Romantic Friday Dinner for myself and Mr. Charlie: chicken & veggie pasta with wine sauce. I'm sure we can polish off the bottle as well.

On Saturday I will be attending both Body Combat & Body Balance at the gym, then getting squeaky clean and heading to the after-troop drinks with the Band of the Welsh Guards. We'll probably spend the rest of the day there, no doubt picking up a kebab on the way home...

Sunday I'm going for a run then walking up to meet a friend to go shopping at the Marylebone Summer Fayre. I plan on spending the rest of the day curled up on the sofa with a cup of tea and the Sunday Times.

[img src]

Greetings!

2009-06-08T14:16:00.000+01:00

Hello my lovelies. Welcome to my new blog - I've upgraded! I'm Laura and this is about the little happenings in my life at the moment. Obviously I will not be recounting every single detail of every single day, so that's why I've titled it as is. You will only get to read lite bites but I'm sure that will be more interesting anyway!