So Long Overdue, It's Not Even Funny

..But better late than never, I suppose. Here are some photos from back in May 2006 when our dear friends Jere, David, Giannina, Vahid & Darren paid us a visit in Nashville, as well as pics from Jennifer Block's bachelorette dinner held that same weekend. Sorry it's taken so long guys!

Darren, myself, Sabs, Gianni, David & Vahid at Cafe Coco.

A very dear friend of the Seals family, Jere McKinney.

Sweetest couple, Gianni & David.

Holley, Genevieve, Neda, Bahar, Jennifer, Giannina, myself & Andrea.

Attractive, eh?

St. Pete's

This post comes to you via the Hilton Homewood Suites in St. Petersburg Florida, where I've been boarded up for the last week receiving training for work. I'm anxious to get back to Sabs, my kitties and my own bed, although the bed here is quite comfy I must say—6 fluffy pillows and a cozy down comforter...yum! (And it's a good thing, considering that all I want to do after attending day-long classes is crawl into bed and sleep...hehe)

Required sightseeing on the schedule tonight before the drive back to Miami tomorrow? The Salvador Dali museum. Don't want to miss it, and apparently no one here wants us to either—they keep mentioning it. Seems locals are really proud of the Dali museum, and rightfully so, being as it is the largest collection of his work in the US. I'm looking forward to the art and the gift shop too! As the Brits say, "Cheerio!"

The Closing Of An Era

Thanks to dear friend Jere McKinney who came across it, here is a memorable photo of the Seals family, circa 1982, taken at the Bahá'í Music Conference in Panama (I believe). This picture comes to me at a time I consider "the closing of an era." Almost the entire Seals family (sadly Carmencita missing due to work schedule) convened in Costa Rica over the Christmas Holidays. This visit was made special by the fact that the home we grew up in, which served as our family's pioneer post for more than 25 years, will shortly be up for rent (whew...not "sale" thank God!). However, despite the home's unavailability for future visits, the love and gracious hospitality extended by our dearly loved Bahá'í friends, has encouraged us to continue to visit the place I still call home. Much love to all of you and we look forward to seeing you in CR again soon!

We Are Now Proud Parents!

ahem...of two little kittens, that is. Knew that would get your attention though...hehe. They are from the Manx breed and characterized by their stubby little tails which make them look much like bobcats. They are also known for their unusual dog-like behavior and attentiveness to their owners—one of the few breeds that might actually come when you call their names and have been known to even play fetch! These two are a little brother and sister, Leo (orange) & Chloe (gray), that we got from the Ft. Lauderdale Humane Society. We've been wanting a pet of for a while now, and since we're living in a condo, it just seemed practical to get a cat. Nika and Dan suggested that we get 2, as they are themselves proud parents to Oliver and Kiddo—2 brother cats—and feel that an extra cat isn't really that much more work. Plus, it guarantees they will be entertained and kept company when we're out. So, even though they are not human babies, they're the only "babies" for now. Here are some sweet little photos of the newest members of our family.

Celebration Estilo Philly

Sahba and I just got back from Philadelphia this past weekend, where we celebrated Maman Pari's (Sahba's grandmother's) 80th birthday. Also in attendance were my dear in-laws, Venus and Bijan. Maman Pari is easily one of the dearest, most loving, self sacrificing individuals I've ever met. We enjoyed a memorable Italian feast held in her honor.

“Corporate America”

Gosh, it's been some time since my last post. Didn't I promise to post more often? What happened? So quickly I forget. Anywho, I am pleased to report I have accepted a design job with Verizon. I've been working with them for a few weeks now. Yep, can you imagine me getting fully integrated into "Corporate America" and all that entails? Makes me laugh too! Judging by the standards of my fellow designers, it would appear I have sold out, but contrary to thought, there is no glamour in being a starving artist. I've been heading Verizon's Hollywood, Florida creative department. Work is great so far...there are a few pros and cons. One of the pros? Being one's own boss, so to speak—my supervisor is located in Minnesota. Creative freedom is superb, though I'm finding that being in charge of the department can at times be dauntingly challenging. I still have a hard time believing that these people, who appear worlds more qualified in their own fields, are looking to me for creative direction. Are you serious? Still haven't quite gotten used to that one. Another pro? I get to work a variety of ads, so it never gets boring. Con? My commute is 45 min. in the morning and anywhere from 1 hr. to 1 1/2 hrs. in the evening! Did I mention the glorious bumper-to-bumper Miami traffic? I'm taking it one day at a time. Well, off to bed now. Gotta rest for that morning drive!

We miss you guys!

Party at Van Dyke's

Saturday night we met up with our new buddies Marzieh and Jalil Thurber for Jalil's 32nd birthday celebration. Van Dyke's is a trendy eatery on South Beach's famed Lincoln Road. The upper level of the restaurant houses a fabulous jazz lounge, where jazz can be heard every night of the week. That night our ears were delighted by the Brazilian sounds of bossa nova as well as some New Orleans blues. Also in attending: the lovely Lisa Rayner, and two of Jalil's buddies from D.C., brothers Shamim and Shahram. Great fun guys!

Happy Birthday Flor!

Flor is the sweetest, most dear friend—one whom I am fortunate to have known the last 15 years! Distance hasn't kept us apart. On the contrary, it has served to only strengthen our friendship over the years. Somehow we've managed to share every moment with one another, as though we never were apart. Today, 20...ahem...some years ago (a girl never tells) the world was blessed with the birth of a wonderful, dear soul. And the world is made a brighter place each day with her presence and contributions to humanity. Florcita, I love you so much and wish you all the best on your special day! Felíz cumpleaños, my dear sister of the Spirit.

Toy Story...Not the Movie

Sorry it's been a while. Here's the latest. We're in Miami, hence the last post, and I've been spending most of my days trying to find a full-time job. I resorted to signing up with a staffing firm—one that is contracted by various companies in the local area that are trying to find new hires.

At first, I was really psyched when they called me with a job op. I would be contracted to work with this great toy company in the area. I jumped at the opportunity to design really fun and edgy packaging for toys. The toy company didn't let me down either. Last Monday was my first day and it truly was amazing! They are one of the leading manufacturers of educational toys—plastic dinosaurs and zoo animals, play toys, puzzles, posters…you name it. I was brought onboard to help them through the week with mainly production work. When the week was up, they asked me to come back the following (this week). Then the creative director asked if I was interested in full-time. I was thrilled! The idea of working in such a fun and creative environment is ideal as a designer. So here's the part were it gets iffy.

Along the way, I found out that because the toy company hired the staffing firm to find them a designer, they would be legally obligated to pay the staffing firm 10% of my annual salary if they were to hire me. A sorta finders fee, if you will. 10%! Whoa! In the end, the toy company decided they would need to find someone else to hire full-time, as it was obvious they could not dish out the dough. So the staffing company has turned out to be not all that great. The chances of finding a full-time job through them is near impossible. I guess one could potentially just accept contracted work through the firm, but I'm looking for a full package—compensation, benefits, 401K… the whole shebang. We'll see what happens. I've got two other interviews to look forward to though. One with Verizon, who might want me to head their Hollywood, Florida office, and the other with an advertising company in Miami Beach. I'm already doing it, eh? Referring to random cities in Florida, expecting you to know exactly where they are or something. Sorry. I'll keep you tuned in to the progress.

On another note, I'm happy to report that Sahba is loooving his residency in Family Practice Medicine! The hospital is fabulous! The staff are all friendly and helpful. And the field itself has proven to be more versatile than anesthesia. Already Sahba and Dan are planning and perfecting all kinds of things to offer in the their private practice (they both switched into family medicine from other fields and are in the same residency program). Adorable!

Where Have We Been???

MIAMI BABY! As some of you may know, Sahba and I recently moved from Nashville to Miami. Sabs switched medical specialties from Anesthesia to Family Practice Medicine, bringing us to the beautiful and sunny South Florida. We've been here now for almost 5 weeks, and though we miss our families terribly, have been enjoying this new and exciting chapter of our lives. Miami can really make a girl feel at home with the culture, food, and sabor latino which surrounds.

Since we've been here, I've been freelancing for the company with whom I worked back in Nashville, which has been keeping me relatively busy. I've also been sending out resumes and interviewing with Advertising companies in the Miami area in the hopes to secure a full-time job as well. I had forgotten how much patience is required for this process. Grueling but exciting at the same time!

Now, I'll have you know I surely planned to update the blog more frequently. I will keep you posted on the job hunting, the wonderful activities going on in the Bahá'í community down here, Sahba's work and all the rest in the days to come. So sorry for the delay!

Miss and love you all!

Long Overdue, Part 3: Nika's Bridal Shower

On April 15th, one week before the wedding, Marleecia and I had the honor of hosting a bridal shower for Nika (my sis-in-law & Marlee's best friend). We chose Island Tropics as the theme and asked guests to dress accordingly. Andrea and I decorated the house with lots of sea shells, sand, palm trees, flowers, a canopy, and tiki torches (estilo Survivor). As each guest arrived they were given a lei to wear around the neck and a colorful umbrella-laced fruit drink. We played bridal shower games, ate tasty island food, and shared in the happiness and best wishes for our dearest Nika Joon. Check out the pics! ("Photos" link in sidebar for more Bridal Shower pics.)

Long Overdue, Part 2: ATL Road Trip

At the begining of April, my sisters and I planned a little road trip to Atlanta. Hours before leaving, I received a call from our dearest friend, Flor, saying she would be meeting us there (from Costa Rica!). What a fantastic time together! Shopping, eating, and dancing. We also got a chance see Jason, another buddy of ours from Costa Rica who is living there now. Thanks guys for such a good time!(More ATL pics under "Photos" link in sidebar.)



 

Long Overdue, Part 1: Seals & Seals Concert

Late, but as promised. Here are some snap shots from the Seals & Seals concert in Dickson, TN, March 31, 2006. It was a great time spent with family and friends. New Seals & Seals album set to drop sometime in the Summer/Fall '06. I'll keep you posted. (More S&S concert pics under the "Photos" tab in sidebar.)

Can Someone Say '80s?

I swore I'd never give into the '80s fashion resurgence. Okay so I've caved a few times, but for the most part, acid-wash jeans, teased hair, hot-pink lipstick, leggings, the sock & high-heel combo, have all been a distant, veeeery distant memory for me....that is until I came across this picture! Thought I'd share it with you before I burn it. Oh, and by the way, if anyone ever wanted to blackmail me, this would suffice.

Completely LOST

I've always been a little skeptical about the TV show LOST. Even after reading Gianni & David's previous post about it (sorry dears), it never quite appealed to me. Therefore, you can imagine my reaction when Sahba, after being introduced to the show by his sister, told me "You've got to see it!" After some moments of the "Do I have to?" groans, I decided to give it a chance. I mean, what harm could come from watching the first two episodes of Season 1 right? Wrong! Big Mistake! HUGE! Not only am I hooked, and by the way I've since watched every episode of Season 1 and have moved on to Season 2 in an attempt to catch up, I'm completely obsessed! How hooked am I really? Well, lets just say been staying up until 2 and 3am watching TV! It's really scary actually. I mean, there's gotta be some mastermind brainwashing machine behind this show. Just a theory. For example, I've even found myself asking other people, and even strangers in the elevator, "Have you ever seen LOST?" It's insanity! PURE INSANITY!!! Or as Gollum of Lord of The Rings would say, "My prrrreccious, my prrreccious..."

Blog

Such a punk for neglecting my bloggie blog! Remember those chia pets? "Chi-chi-chi Chia..." Well, that's how I sorta feel about my blog these days. Since starting the Fast, I just let the poor little thing go. But now I'm back, so I'll have to nurse little blog back into to tip-top shape! Maybe change the background color or do something special to lift it's spirit : )

Happy Fast!

"Happy the days that have been consecrated to the remembrance of God, and blessed the hours which have been spent in praise of Him Who is the All-Wise."

~Bahá'u'lláh

Sudoku

I'm obsessed. My favorite part of the day is when, on my way back to the office after lunch, I pass the newspaper stand and pick up the Nashville City Paper. After reading the Headlines and skimming Entertainment, I quickly flip to the Etceteras section for the Comics & Puzzles. And there, glowing before my very little eyes is Sudoku! Whenever I have down time throughout the day, I get to working the puzzle. Sometimes they're easy, other times I get stumped and peek at the answers (c'mon!). Though I would only consider myself a "white belt" by Sudoku standards, I so enjoy it. Try it once and you'll be hooked (http://games.latimes.com/). You've been forewarned!

Surprise!

This is what I saw when I awoke today...lovely snow! Shot is taken from our living room looking out. The rest are of the exterior of our house covered in the beautiful white blanket.

New Mexico Reviewed

So I'm back from my weekend trip to Albuquerque, where I totally fell in love with the New Mexican landscape, culture, feel, you name it. I spent 3 days with sweet Aria, her husband James, who is one of the coolest guys ever, their cuttie-patuttie-eat-those-little-rubbery-ears little girl Sasha & dearest Samantha and Tony Schmitz.

Aria, Sasha and Samantha took Tony and I on the longest Tramway in the world which ascends to over 10,000 feet! For those who don't know the concept of the tramway, it's basically a little box you stand in that's balanced on a couple of cables a few thousand feet in the air! I'm totally not kidding! Highly terrifying but so thrilling at the same time. I loved it! At the top of the mountain, after smiling through grinding teeth and clenching the inside bar of that tiny tramway box, I was completely struck with the most amazing above view ever, overlooking all of Albuquerque and other cities and mountains in the distance. And though the winds gusted and the temperatures neared the single digits, it was splendid!
We also got to go to the Seals & Seals concert that was awesome. Several Bahá'ís from Albuquerque and surrounding areas traveled to see them play too, like our dear old friends from Costa Rica, Violeta and Phillip Mirkovich. Following the concert, which little Sasha soundly slept through (she's the cutest!), we took many pictures together.

On Sunday, my last day in NM, Violeta & Fipo prepared a delicious Tico breakfast for us. Afterwards, Aria, James and Sasha took me to the Jemez Mountains, where James had been just a day earlier on a class trip. Let me tell you, James, the soon-to-be geologist, knows his rocks and I was stunned and impressed to learn all the history of that region. Thanks for the incredible tour guys!In all, there are no words to thank these dear friends for such a lovely experience. I can only say that I miss you dearly and love you so much! You have to come to Nashville now, so I can return the great favor! Check out these pictures of darling, sweet, beautiful Sasha.