What is a friend?

I love my girlfriends. They are the people I trust completely and can relate to on all levels. They are amazing women, truly, yet I still seek company with males to broaden my perspectives on life. They give me balance, reality checks, and wonderful support. However lately I find myself at a loss with the definition of friend, for men. What are the boundaries? Why do they care about me? What makes him my friend in the first place? Will our friendship stop one day?
I care about these special people, but it seems lately their feelings appear to be disappearing. I don't know what's happened, sure people change but enough to grow apart from a person they once treasured? A person they felt totally at ease with, could share laughs, sorrows; reveal their inner dreams without any fear of judgement. I can recall so many times when these things came so naturally, and now it feels like it is a distant memory, a memory that sails onward toward the horizon. I feel so incredibly lost when I think about this thought, asking myself what could burn away a bond that seemed to be indestructible. I can't help but feel used at times, thinking that maybe the only reason they ever cared to get to know me was for personal amusement, that quickly turned to boredom. But what they don't see is that I am not a conquest. Our relationship is one that will never grow tiresome or old, instead it is one that has the beautiful possibility of lasting an eternity. Life is ever changing, and so are people, so why discard one that meant something special to you? The wonder of a friend is that they can be so many things in one body, a lover, a colleague, a classmate, even a soulmate. I know this is all part of a larger plan for us, and someday maybe it will make sense, but until then I suppose I will have to take a step away.

The Wonders of Wine

What is it about a glass of wine that makes one feel so...good? Surely, one could say the alcoholic contents but one glass is not enough to give even a remote buzz, so why the lovely feelings? Tonight, as I sit here on this very chilly December night in my bathrobe and white zinfandel I find myself quite content. Life has been rather stressful with this semester wrapping up along with holiday preparations, and tonight seemed an appropriate occasion to sit in with a glass of wine. I'm about to get started on french, revise a brief essay and write a summary of a presentation my group and I will be doing tomorrow afternoon for Eighteenth Century British drama and prose, but I don't yet find myself overwhelmed. Somehow this wine is telling me to relax, do what I know how to do, and everything will get done. I'm not certain this will be the case in the next few days when things really start intensifying but I'm going to go with that for now! Bonne soire mes amis, et acclamations!

NOOK NEWS!

I did it, I did it, I did it! I finally took the plunge and got myself a nook this afternoon. It's charging right now, so I'm not sure if I love it- but judging from the Charlotte Bronte illustrations on the screen I'm guessing I will grow quite fond of the little device. I ended up going with the Lilly Pulitzer sea shells cover and it is probably the cutest looking book I have ever seen. I can't wait to play around with it. Just wanted to post about this lovely little edition to my library as a follow-up to my prior post in March. Gotta love girls that go after what they want!

Stay

Well it's good to hear your voice
I hope you're doing fine
And if you ever wonder
I'm lonely here tonight

I'm lost here in this moment
And time keeps slipping by
And if I could have just one wish
I'd have you by my side

Oh, I miss you
Oh, I need you

And I love you more
Than I did before
And then today I don't see your face
Nothing's changed
No one could take your place
It gets harder every day
Say you love me more than you did before
And I'm sorry it's this way
But I'm coming home
I'll be coming home
And if you ask me I will stay
I will stay

Well I try to live without you
But tears fall from my eyes
I'm alone and I feel empty
God, I'm torn apart inside
I look up at the stars
Hoping you're doing the same
And somehow I feel closer
And I can hear you say

Oh, I miss you
Oh, I need you

I love you more
Than I did before
And then today I don't see your face
Nothing's changed
No one could take your place
It gets harder every day
Say you love me more than you did before
And I'm sorry it's this way
But I'm coming home, I'll be coming home
And if you ask me I will stay

I will stay
Always stay
I never want to lose you
And if I had to, I would choose you
So stay
Please always stay
You're the one that I hold on to
Cause my heart would stop without you

I love you more
Than I did before
And then today I don't see your face
Nothing's changed
No one could take your place
It gets harder every day
Say you love me more than you did before
And I'm sorry that it's this way
But I'm coming home, I'll be coming home
And if you ask me I will stay
I will stay
I'll always stay

And I love you more than I did before
And I'm sorry that it's this way
But I'm coming home, I'll be coming home
And if you ask, I will stay
I will stay
I will stay

Grandma Knows Best?

I've been hanging out with my Grandma lately and for some odd reason she keeps bringing up marriage. Funny thing is, she's discouraging it! Not entirely, but suggesting I put it on hold, (as if it's even a upcoming event!) She cracks me up, telling me about her mother-in-law's hang ups, or the outrageous situations married couples get themselves into, for ex. financial difficulties, power struggles or annoying quirks one now has to live with. In her own words "marriage at it's best is tough, you got that Kayla? T-U-F-F tuff!" I don't really know why this is her topic of conversation these days, but all the same it is entertaining. SOOO, I decided to bemuse the woman and show her my dream engagement ring to make her think I was dying to be a bride! She was hilarious, telling me how carat-crazy I am... it was great. However, if any of you future fiances would like to know what ring I like just refer to the photo. Tiffany Emerald Cut Ring 1.5 carats looks best on my hand =)

Summer Spending...Not this Year!!

Okay, okay we all know the cutest clothes are summer sundresses and teeny bikinis, and the day trips to the best shopping spots and restaurants don't like the piggy banks. Every year it's the same thing, the mentality "I AM GOING TO WORK MY BOOTY OFF" and by the end of the season, wonder where all the cash I thought I had, had gone. HOWEVER... this year is quite different. I will be working 2 jobs, PLUS odd jobs and plan to spend virtually NOTHING. I don't even know what I'm saving for, all I know is-it feels pretty darn good! Despite the fact that my closet is itching to house those delightful little Kate Spade Lover pink pumps, and that sexy pair of Chanel shades in the Sunglass Hut in Farmington, I have resisted the urge to splurge. It seems like the mature thing to do at this ripe age of twenty, I mean, why not collect checks from grueling hours on my legs, and sunny days I turned in for labor, just to see how much I dedicated this summer. I think it will be rewarding to show some discipline this year and make the less-amusing, adult choice... at least that's what I keep telling myself! =(

Get Your Golf On!

It may be finals week, but you know what? I don't want to write about tests and study routines. This afternoon I've been thinking about golf. I have not played in a long, long, long, long, long time and have been in the mood to swing the clubs lately. Not to mention, I've seen some really cute golf outfits that encourage me only that much more to get out on there. I love the sound of the driver head smacking the ball against the hush of the course. I love shoving a tee in the ground and looking down at that perfectly balanced ball just waiting to fly. Dad is a big fan of golf, and never thought he'd be able to play again until he got a knee replacement however, last year he went out a few times, and volia! He was able to keep up, due to a better diet and daily exercise! I would really love to play a round with Dad, he was the first person ever to watch me swing, and I'm sure we would have a lot of laughs!

Kitty Cats for Kayla

I love cats. Although there are many people who love their dogs, and claim to hate our feline friends, I would just like to announce that I am kitty crazy. I love animals in general but as I get older and contemplate what my first pet will be. I thought many times I'd like a yorkie, as they are about the size of a cat and have hair that's not as messy as fur, they still have to be walked, groomed and kept occupied. A friendly cat however is clean, independent and most important, an affectionate snuggle buddy! My family recently got a seal point himalayan cat we call Milo, and he is by far the best kitty I have ever known. I miss him so much, he has the most adorable doll face, and softest little body! I definitely think that I will get a himalayan kitten, they're just too perfect. If it were up to me, I would choose a white girl and name her La Perla, after the fine Italian lingerie! She'll be that satiny-cashmere feel of a luxury bathrobe... Kayla And Lala- what a marvelous pair!

I love Kentucky!

Yesterday evening I returned from my annual visit to the great state of Kentucky. My Uncle Tim and I have such a pleasant time together each year, we have decided to make it a spring tradition while I'm in school. I looked forward to this trip very much, especially because we had planned on traveling west to Louisville, the cite of the Kentucky Derby. I love watching that race each (the fastest 5 minutes in sports!) and was thrilled to be going to see Churchill Downs, and don't forget the visit to a derby millinery! Churchill Downs was positively gigantic, the track spanning over a mile. I was surprised to discover the location was literally just a few miles outside the city! After a trip to C.D. we went to Dee's a delightful little hat shop, that suits all your derby needs! Of course I would consider it a crime to leave Louisville without getting an official derby ensemble, and Uncle Tim was kind enough to get me a lovely white bespoke, complete with hot pink ribbon and satin floral decor. Can't wait to wear it with my Lilly Patchtastic Franco dress! An additionally thrilling memory of Louisville were the fireworks. Without knowing it, we happened to plan our first trip to the city during their busiest time of the year. This past weekend was "Thunder Over Louisville" the country's largest firework display shot off from the Ohio River. The fireworks were breathtaking, with shimmering whites followed by vivid greens, reds and blues. I was really impressed with the general feel of the city as well, I felt like I was walking through a quaint Southern village flecked with French charm. I highly recommend a visit to Kentucky, you'll truly get more than you bargained for!

Still Make Lemonade Taste Like a Summer Day

I was listening to one of my favorites by Dave Matthews Band, American Baby, and suddenly felt compelled to write about lemonade. Beyond margaritas, piña coladas, daiquiris and iced/sweet tea, lemonade is the beverage I enjoy the most. Just looking at the sunny butter- yellow stuff with a whimsy lemon wheel twirling around the inside of the drink can't help but make one happy! Apparently lemonade originated in Egypt, an unlikely location for such a seemingly American drink, but hey- the Egyptians were way ahead of their time with architecture, celestial activity, and embalming techniques, so why couldn't they whip up the world's perfect summer cocktail? Sounds like a plan to me =)

My Mediterranean Mood

Today I was exhausted and took a relaxing nap for two hours. In the course of the nap I had a dream about the Greek Isles and the Mediterranean Sea that inspired my post today. I'm dying to get over there and experience coastal Europe's finest region. The water is so perfectly blue, I want to go and stand on the rocky cliffs and feel the salty breeze on my face. I want to see the sun sparkle off the sea, and see the tiny fishing boats rock gently with the flow off the tide. I want to stand at the acropolis and look down upon the city of Athens and imagine what the ancients saw so many thousands of years ago. I want to have an old lady with a wrinkly face and crooked nose to shout something in Greek at me in a crowded market place. I would love to taste the cuisine and drink wine generously among locals. I want to buy white plaster buffs of the Greek gods and feel myself believe in the legends associated with each one. I want to hear the bouzouki, the Greek guitar (similar sounding to a mandolin) gently strung by romantic hands. And of course, I want to wear a pair of Versace sunglasses with the Greek crystal symbol shimmering under the hot sun. Hmm... sounds like a plan to me!

Need a Nook!

I have come to the conclusion that I need a nook. I have been eyeing them ever since they came out with the Kate Spade covers for them, but after playing with a model nook yesterday at Barnes and Noble I am now a nook lover. It's such a unique device, the highlights for me include the easy on the eyes screen, the affordability of the books available, the 3G capability, and the lightweight design. It's also eco-friendly and has endless shelf space! Such a cool way to read =)

Kay-La à La Lobster

This weekend I was stupid. I don't know how many times I have done this to myself, but clearly I haven't learned yet... the sun is still very strong on hazy, breezy days! Agh! Saturday afternoon I underestimated the sun and opted out of wearing an SPF for the day... bad move. My sunburn has made my skin a into a painful, raspberry embarrassment! I despise getting burned, as this is connected with melanoma and premature wrinkles, sunspots, etc. Thankfully, I have my aloe lotion that will hopefully heal my pain stricken dermis, and alleviate my discomfort. On a more positive note... the weather outside today is beautiful! All the trees have buds/are in bloom, the flowers are opening up, the pollen is driving my eyes wild! I love it! Spring is such an uplifting season, definitely a mood-booster pour moi! I am so excited to hit the beach when school gets out, God knows I'll have to sit under the darn beach umbrella and wear my SPF 55 to escape any "overexposure!"

Sunning Star Style

Finally! Warm enough weather to lay out and get some color!! This poor body needs some rays like you can't believe, it's sad when it gets to the point where you're so translucent you can see your veins right through the skin! Amy and I are heading to the pool to get our tan on, and jump start this Easter weekend right. With all the onset of summer and swimsuit season, I was thinking of getting some new bikinis. I've been wearing them since before I was 12, but this year I want my swimsuits to have a little more sophistication than just a wild printed, skimpy triangle set. Grace Kelly, as pictured above has been part of my inspiration, she's my favorite old Hollywood diva. I was thinking of getting a classic looking one piece for the pool, paired with a wedge sandal and a glamorous beach hat...As for the beach, I was opting for a classy red bandeau bikini, simple, understated but attractive. We'll see, the jury's still out on all that! I've got some really awesome summer reads that's yet another anticipation for summer. I've got 3 fun reads by Jane Green that I've been dying to delve into, as well as my Jane Austen anthology with her seven most popular novels. Unfortunately all this is going to have to wait 34 more days when finals are done and the summer can actually begin! So much to do, so little time- the story of my life! Bon weekend mon amis!

Spring Fever=Goodness!

Easter is rolling in this weekend, and I can't help but feel uplifted. Although I'm not going anywhere, or doing any special things, I just feel happy that all the spring things are coming to life again. I have a passion for flowers and other vegetation, love bunny rabbits, and enjoy the sunshine like none other. Every year I get "spring fever" but I've got to be honest when I admit how much I look forward to this feeling every year! In two weeks I'm going to Kentucky, Louisville specifically, with my Uncle Tim to see Churchill Downs, and the quaint Southern charm of the city. This will be our second annual trip to KY and I have to say, I am thoroughly looking forward to it. I find myself becoming more positive when I have many good things to look forward to, and I hope this positivity turns into productivity. I recently read a motivating self-help guide called The Dip by Seth Godin, that gave some really interesting advice. With these new tactics I'd like to transform my unsuccessful side into a producer of results. My dad and I are both on the same level these days in this department, and I hope we can motivate each other and support each other into success! This may seem rather abstract or philosophical but it's what's on my mind, and I don't really believe in holding back dominant thoughts!

Bonjour Blog! I've been wanting to create a blog for some time, but debated be cyber-committed to yet another resource. Oh well, I did it- although I think it's just about time for twitter to hit the road. Out with the old, in with the new! Anyway, this blog is titled Pineapple Pleasures because I simply adore pineapple and I want this blog to be a pleasure to post and read. Pretty straight forward, huh? Spring is approaching and I can't wait to put up a bunch of fun pictures and write about some cool things. If any ideas come up, let me know! Au revoir mon amies!