sonk

A Wedding, a Wife and a New Life

2012-01-19T15:44:00.000-05:00

A few weeks of pre- and post-wedding radio silence and I am back. And sitting in the BYU library, of all places. I can't tell if it feels awkward to be here because I've been graduated for 6 years, or if it feels awkward because now I'm one of those married people on campus. I happen to be recruiting attendees for our BYUPAS event in May, although I'd venture to guess nobody cares about that. Let's talk about the wedding!

My mother and I managed to pull off a rockin' wedding-turned-New-Year's-Eve-party. And for the first 3 days of our honeymoon Adam and I couldn't stop talking about how much we loved it. I kept flashing pictures of our wedding to Adam on my iPhone and we took turns gushing over them. We wondered if something was wrong with us - to be so preoccupied about something that happened in 30 degree weather in Ohio while we were currently sitting on a beach in Puerto Rico - but then we just decided that we had a seriously awesome wedding, and continued to talk about how much we loved it.

When we found ourselves with both sets of parents last Friday night at a Rolling Stones cover band concert in Park City we had to face the stunning realization that the official honeymoon was over. But unofficially, many honeymoon-like adventures are before us. Most of them we have yet to discover - like where we are going to live when we move to New York on Monday - but I know that everything will be great because I will be with Adam. And he is my Most Very Favorite Person in the Entire World.

There are so many thoughts swimming around in my head. About our wedding day, our honeymoon, our marriage and our love. I will post more soon. But I had to get a few key things out of the way first - like clearing out 800 unread emails in my inbox, unsubscribing from wedding emails, adding "Benton" to the end of my name in gmail and deleting my Twitter account. Priorities, people.

Our Concrete Jungle

2011-12-18T23:32:00.000-05:00

It's Sunday night and I'm not on a bus. And Adam is not on a bus. It is a miracle. This weekend I officially moved to New York. It won't last long, because on Wednesday we are driving to Ohio for Christmas and our wedding. We won't be back in NYC until the end of January, but the point is - I moved. I left DC. And it feels right. Especially right now. Because right now I am currently perched on Adam's bed, updating my blog, while Adam crams out his last final. I am staring at the back of his head and it couldn't be a more glorious sight. Us. Here. Together. On a Sunday night. Shout it from the rooftops!

I have planned as much as I possibly can, but truthfully, I have no idea what is in store. Last week we had a place to live, but three days ago that fell through. Last Friday, in the midst of developing a wicked cold while moving my stuff into a storage unit in DC because we don't have a place to live, and after a failed attempt at using a $2 coupon (wait for it) MY CAR GOT TOWED. The result was a full-on Stephanie meltdown. Big time meltdown. Like, my face was on the cement and I was sobbing/hyperventilating for 20 minutes straight. This kind of meltdown probably should have waited until after the wedding. We aren't even laughing about it yet because we still don't have a place to live and the wedding to-do list isn't really any shorter.

When my roommate Kim bailed us out and drove us to the tow place I told her that I felt like I hadn't even moved and I felt like New York was already screwing me over. She said, "Oh Stephanie, c'mon, New York's been screwing you over for years."

So true. Thank you, Kim, for putting things into perspective for me.

But tonight, none of that matters. I am so happy to be in the city that I love-hate, with the man I love-love. My new home. (Wherever that technically lands us. Hopefully somewhere on the Upper West Side between 96 and 116th.)

A Memoir of Capitol Hill

2011-11-30T14:34:00.000-05:00

My first experience on Capitol Hill - interning for my Congressman in the spring of 2005.

As I have said and one could well assume, there are many firsts in my life right now. There are also many lasts. Today is one of the lasts: It is my last day working as a Congressional staffer. It has been five years. I will miss this place dearly.

It took a pretty significant proposal - a marriage proposal, in fact - to get me off this Hill. I have sat up here on my high Hill (figuratively, of course), completely unwilling to leave until a better offer - a MUCH better offer - came my way. Why? Because working here is awesome.

This place has been so good to me. I made a little career for myself in which I was able to mesh my interest in politics with my talent and formal education in communications. I have seen the inner-workings of the legislative process - both glamorous, unglamorous, grueling and rewarding. I have made life long friends. I have loved it.

We used to laugh when my wise and wonderful old roommate Sarah, a lawyer by trade, would say that she loved the law. Well, after five years of working within the legislative branch, I can unequivocally say that I love the legislative process. I love our country, and I love what Capitol Hill stands for.

You may have noticed that you can't just walk into any building in Washington, DC. It's very difficult to get a tour of the White House and if you're even thinking about walking into one of the Administration buildings you might as well turn around inside the lobby because that's about as far as you're going to get.

But when you go to the Capitol - or any of its corresponding House or Senate office buildings - you will notice that they are open to the public. You have to go through a metal detector to get into the office buildings and you must be escorted by staff or on an official tour to get into the Capitol, but these buildings are OPEN. They are open to the public because they are here to serve the public. Your votes determine the lawmakers that reside in those halls, and they are in a very real sense accountable to you.

I like to remind people (especially Ohioans) that I work for THEM. I do not work for President Obama. I do not even work for the government really. (Although I do observe most federal holidays.) I work for the people. It is a privilege to be a citizen of our great nation, and with that privilege comes the responsibility of electing a governing body to represent you. Kind of awesome, right? These are the kinds of rights people die for in other parts of the world.

I have had some incredible opportunities over the last five years, simply by being a Capitol Hill staffer. And my most favorite memories have come from hearing lectures from some of the people I admire and have only dreamed of meeting in person.

Two of the most significant speakers I heard were Ari Fleischer and Dana Perino, both of whom served as press secretary to President Bush (Ari from '01-03 and Dana from '07-09). They both spoke at separate times to a group of Capitol Hill press secretaries of which I belong (belonged?). One thing they both said was that, while they were grateful for the incredible opportunity to serve in Bush's administration, their favorite job was being a Capitol Hill press secretary. They both smiled with such delight recalling their days on the Hill and gave invaluable advice for dealing with reporters and handling the media.

I am not even fully separated from the experience and nostalgia has already set in. I will miss this place. I will miss freely roaming the halls. I will miss working with reporters and drafting statements for Senators and Congressmen and writing things that my boss ends up saying on the Senate or House floor. It is work, but it has been really fun work.

Sorry I just totally geeked out there for a second. But the point is, if you get a chance, come visit DC and meet your Congressman. Find your Congressman on Facebook and Twitter and follow him/her. Check in on them regularly. Know how they vote and decide how you would like them to vote. Go to your local city council and school board and see what kind of decisions they are making in your community. And if you are still in college or know someone in college, encourage them to do an internship in Washington. You/they will never regret it.

Now I'll get down off my Capitol Hill and start the next chapter of my life.

Sugar Highs and Photo Shoots

2011-11-28T13:01:00.000-05:00

Have you been to my favorite cupcake place in New York? It's called Baked by Melissa and they sell bite size cupcakes that are to die for. A new location opened on the Upper West Side last month and suddenly moving to NYC doesn't seem so hard anymore.

In wedding news, our announcements are out! Yours should be coming in the mail shortly. I also made us a wedding website, which you can view at www.sonksenbentonwedding.com.

I thought about listing all the ways I'm being a responsible bride and getting things done. But then I decided that sometimes people just want to see pictures, and that sounded a lot easier right now.

We did two photo shoots - one in Old Town, Alexandria and one in New York. Very diplomatic of us. The announcement photo we chose was from our NYC shoot, but we loved some of the shots from the Old Town shoot (pictures by the beautiful and talented Ashlee Berry). Here are my three of my favorites:

Highlights from the NYC shoot still to come... (hopefully this isn't another empty blog promise.)

Matthew 6:21

2011-11-15T11:57:00.000-05:00

I went to New York this past weekend. Adam and I ran wedding errands almost the entire time - looking at apartments, taking engagement pictures, going over addresses for invitations, coordinating schedules, planning our honeymoon, discussing what couple friends we want in NYC... etc, etc, etc.

Sunday morning we bolted out the door to walk through another apartment, then we rushed off to church. I was starving so we stopped and bought a bagel (because, at least for the next two months, I'm still technically an out-of-towner, right?). Rush, rush, rush... plan, plan, plan... do, do, do... check, check, check...

And then we got to church... and I sobbed through the last 30 minutes of sacrament meeting. Seriously, if you saw me on Sunday, you probably thought something was really wrong with me. Adam tried to assure the curious onlookers (namely the bishopric) that I was just really feeling the Spirit. Which was true.

There are so many good things happening in my life right now. I am going through the temple on Saturday. My last day of work is next Tuesday. I am moving to New York sometime soon. I am getting married in 46 days. I am full of emotions that run the gamut.

Everything came to a pinnacle during the second talk in sacrament meeting: on covenants and the endowment. (She quoted this talk.) I couldn't have asked for a better talk to remind me of the very important step that I am taking on Saturday. I was reminded of not just the sacrifices but the blessings that will come. I was reminded that I have spent my whole life preparing for this day. I was reminded that I am so excited - not for a wedding - but for my future.

I didn't deserve to feel such an abundance of the Spirit right then. I hadn't prepared for church, hadn't read my scriptures for a few days, and had instead spent the last two days worrying only about how my hair looked in pictures and what outfits I would wear for my engagement photos (because, you know, these pictures will last a lifetime). The weekend prior I had dedicated 3 days and a free flight to finding a wedding dress on the other side of the country (I found one!). I am not even used to sharing this much about myself on my blog.

Needless to say, the past few weeks I have shirked my duties as a Christian to serve God and love my neighbor. And still, God blessed me abundantly when I needed it most and deserved it the least. It was mercy in its finest form. I was humbled, immensely grateful and frighteningly weepy.

Sometimes in my very feeble attempts to "serve others" I have left feeling slightly drained, as if I've neglected myself for a space of time. But the last few weeks have been a testament to me that doing things for yourself is the real unfulfilling and tiring act. I don't need all this "me" time, and I don't really like the way it has distracted me. I thought I would bask in the glory of these photo shoots and shopping sprees. And for the most part, I think I've risen to the occasion. But I am glad that my life isn't always like this. Wedding planning will absolutely be worth it when, at the end of it all, Adam and I are married and we can celebrate with our family and dearest friends. But last weekend was a good reminder of what should really matter in life.

Matt 6:21 - "For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also."

Pinterest My (Wedding) Interest

2011-11-03T16:27:00.001-04:00

I just discovered Pinterest and created a board about my NYE wedding. This is exactly what a girl who's head has been in politics for 5 years needs to get the creative juices flowing.

p.s. Let me know if you want board posting privileges and I'll add you!

New Year's Eve 2011

2011-10-27T12:28:00.000-04:00

On New Year's Eve I will drink a Diet Coke (my first one all year)...

and...

GET MARRIED!

Hooray for marriage!

We finally set a date, and are now 65 days away from saying "I Do." I never thought I'd be that short-engagement type, but as it turns out, as soon as you decide to get married, you just want to get married. And, because it's on New Year's Eve, my colors will be "sparkles." It will be like my golden birthday all over again! Although I hope it's less gaudy.

Also, after hitting a few dress stores in the DC area, I have found virtually none that work for me. My mom and I have decided on taking an emergency trip to Utah next weekend and hopefully I will be able to Say Yes to the Dress. Any suggestions for the best bridal salons in Utah? C'mon ladies, I need you on this one...

Fear the Face

2011-10-26T09:29:00.001-04:00

We have a photo on our common drive at work. It is titled "STEPHANIE IS MAD."

And anytime one of our co-workers screws up, they get an email telling them how they screwed up. And then at the end it says, "STEPHANIE IS MAD," with this picture attached.

It actually works. Some people are actually scared of me. Go figure.

We were just testing out the camera and that is the face I decided to use. I didn't know I could look so angry. Adam swears he's seen this face...

How It Happened, What I Said, And What I Wore When I Said It.

2011-10-19T09:59:00.000-04:00

Given that it was our 1-year anniversary of dating, celebrations were already in order. Sneaky. I was greeted by 2 dozen red roses when I got home from work last Friday, and 2 dozen more when we got to dinner at Fogo de Chao. But like the practical and unassuming woman that I am, I didn't think too much of it. Like Garrette said, I wasn't thinking "engagement" I was thinking "All you can eat meat."

By the end of dinner I had really bad hiccups. Like, drunk girl hiccups. It is a problem of mine. Adam tried to feed me bogus riddles, saying that getting your mind off the hiccups cures them. I told him that was stupid, and that the only way I can get rid of them is by drinking water upside-down, which was clearly not appropriate at this restaurant.

I was still hiccuping my guts out as Adam drove us over to the National Mall, parked, and led me to the middle of it all - and my favorite view in DC. I love seeing the U.S. Capitol lit up on one side and the Washington Monument on the other. It is a breathtaking view, every time. It wasn't until that moment, when he actually started saying really nice things, that I clued in.

He took a deep breath and bent down on one knee. He pulled a box out of his pocket and illuminated it with his newly-purchased flashlight iPhone app. Inside was a beautiful, pear shaped ring. He said my full name when he asked me to marry him.

I said, "Yes. Of course!"

Then added, "You got rid of my hiccups!"

And then I started to giggle-cry. I think it is the best combination, actually. Real tears convey real meaning but giggles mean that everything is still ok. And everything is SO ok that you are actually moved to tears.

All the things Adam had been keeping from me for the past few weeks came pouring out like a bad confession session. How he secretly asked my dad two weeks ago in Ohio over ice cream after the Priesthood session of General Conference (he liked the formality of wearing a tie because it seemed akin to an interview anyway). How he'd looked at 30 different diamonds in NYC and special ordered and designed this ring for me based off a pictured I'd shown him in passing months and months ago. How he actually had the ring shipped to my house, addressed to my roommate who works from home, although upon discovering she wasn't home that week he jumped on a bus to come and intercept the package. I just thought he really missed me and came early.

Then we drove to Georgetown and had frozen hot chocolate at Serendipity. It represented the end of our courtship and the beginning of our life together. We toasted ourselves and our future. And when we got back to my house he gave me one last bouquet of 2 dozen red roses. Because, he said, he wanted me to wake up everyday this week and remember that he loves me and that we are getting married.

Life hardly ever turns out the way we plan. And yet, I feel like everything I have found in my relationship with Adam has been exactly what I always knew I wanted.

I think the only thing I didn't plan was how this happiness would feel, because I never even knew this kind of happy existed.

This is the best ring shot I've got, unfortunately.

Not that it really matters or anyone really cares, but I think it's worth noting that the day after we got engaged we went back to the spot where it all happened and recreated it for pictures. Hence, the proposal picture I posted on Monday. Huge thanks to Noelle and Matt for biking DC with us and taking our pic! We also didn't tell anyone until the next day, which was also fun. It was our little secret for 12 hours.

A Very Purposeful Post

2011-10-16T22:59:00.000-04:00

What is the opposite of a pointless post? This is.

And if the ring wasn't enough, I also have 72 long-stemmed red roses in my room to remind me that I'm marrying the man of my dreams.

Pointless Post

2011-10-14T12:35:00.000-04:00

1. One time during college I was in the library and a girl came up to me and told me that she just loved my shirt. I was already on the fence about the shirt and after seeing what she was wearing, I never wore it again.

2. Eight months after we started dating, I found out that Adam is good at, and enjoys, karaoke. Tender mercy!

3. The first time I felt the Spirit outside of a church setting was when I was 9 watching Newsies.

4. I still sleep with my baby blanket every night. A lot of people think this a problem.

5. When I was a kid I would ask my parents a thousand questions when they were tucking me into bed. I wanted to know everything about everything. So my dad started getting in the habit of pretending to turn my brain off so I'd shut up and calm down. It helped.

6. I hate elevators and will do most anything to avoid going in them alone.

7. When I was 7 my sister and I flew to California to visit our grandparents. It was the first trip in which I attempted to pack for myself. I packed my jewelry box and everything else on top of my dresser. I thought I might need them.

8. I thought about boys when I was in kindergarten more than any other time in my life.

9. I have fully accepted that I hate going to rock concerts.

10. When I was in 6th grade I didn't have many friends. My mom suggested we throw a party and invite a lot of girls over. We did, and it was fun. But I don't think it worked the way we hoped it would.

We Be Trekin' and Celebrity Checkin'

2011-10-07T11:42:00.001-04:00

I forgot to post pictures about our pioneer trek! Did I tell the blogosphere I chaperoned a pioneer trek? Because I did. Adam and I were a "Ma" and "Pa" team, and we had 13 children. back in June in upstate New York. (For an article about Mormon pioneer treks, go here.)

It was totally awesome. If you get the opportunity to go on a trek, do it! It's so fun! It's sort of like being an EFY counselor - without toilets. Adam and I successfully confused our kids as to whether or not we had just met, were dating, or were married. I had forgotten that high schoolers are generally pretty gullible. And sorta ditsy. But fun and down for just about anything. But maybe that was the pioneer clothing talking.

I think I had teenagers on the brain because last Friday I was in Ohio and had the opportunity to go back to my high school and speak to my old journalism class and two AP history classes about what I do in Washington. The teachers were definitely more interested in hearing about my job on Capitol Hill than the students were, but it was still fun. They mostly wanted to know if I get to meet a lot of famous people... to which I said, "yes of course." Lots of famous people. This place is crawling with celebs. Like this guy:

He is a reading clerk in the House of Representatives. I see him almost everyday when I watch the House floor. And I saw him on the street the other day and got excited to see him in the flesh. If you watch C-Span you will know what I mean.

I also decided I need to create a DC PowerPoint to outline exactly why I think everybody should intern in DC while they're in college. Once it's complete I will post a summary on my blog.

31 Dates in 31 Days

2011-09-26T14:51:00.001-04:00

Meet Tamara, a totally rad, former New Yorker that I met a few years ago. I had a girl crush immediately. She also just published her first book, a soon-to-be-bestseller titled 31 Dates in 31 Days. This is not like self-publishing, or e-book publishing - this is a legit book. And I ordered it on pre-sale, which is why I get all the juicy details before you.

A few years ago Tamara decided to shake up her dating life and she embarked on a journey of going on 31 dates in 31 days. If you've ever had more than 2 dates in one weekend, you'll know this is totally hardcore. But the experience definitely paid off: she got a husband and a book deal out of it! Evan, her now husband, was her date #6. And guess who date #5 was?

... this guy. Mr. "Far-too-kissable-lips" Benton. (Her words, not mine.)

All personal connections aside, Tam is a fantastic writer and I've read almost half the book in three days. I'm loving this journey and can't wait to finish it. Plus, it's really fun to read about your boyfriend on a date with another woman. I'm glad to know he was just as delightful then as he is today. Although I think it's about time he swoon me with some Italian.

Rebirth

2011-09-09T10:48:00.000-04:00

A few months ago I saw the documentary "Rebirth" at the SILVERDOCS film festival in Silver Spring, Maryland. The film, which originally premiered at the Sundance Film Festival this year, follows 5 people for 10 years whose lives were impacted by 9/11. The stories are mixed with time lapse photos of ground zero and the new structure being built on the site. We even got to hear from Jim Whitaker, the producer, after it was over, which was particularly awesome. The music, which is composed by Philip Glass, is also beautifully done. It is emotional and devastating, yet somehow hopeful and healing. I cried a lot, and loved it a lot.

You can catch Rebirth Sunday night (September 11) at 9 pm on Showtime. I highly recommend it.

I have been working on a few 9/11 projects this week for my job and have been trying to appropriately reflect on that terrible event. Some articles that have inspired me have been this week's edition of TIME Magazine, this episode of the Mormon Channel with Kenneth and Jeanette Howell, the parents of Brady Howell, the only LDS member who died in the Pentagon on 9/11, and of course this guest column in the Washington Post from the dearly loved president of my church, Thomas Monson. I am also looking forward to hearing the Mormon Tabernacle Choir's "9/11 Rising Above" tribute on Sunday.

All of these things have made me cry sad tears - but also happy tears. Ten years later: America has healed, but has never forgotten. I pray that God will continue to bless our great nation.

The Smoothest Trick in the (Cook) Book

2011-09-06T17:09:00.001-04:00

I have to give all credit to my roommate Kim Gardner for introducing me to the newest addition to my diet - the incredibly delicious healthy smoothie.

I never thought I'd be one to enjoy a liquid meal (I really like to chew my food) but this is so yummy and surprisingly filling. And if I'm blogging about my food, then it either means it's a great recipe or my life has taken a seriously sad turn.

Put in blender:

2 handfuls of spinach
1 banana
3 scoops of frozen fruit (I like strawberries, blueberries, and some sort of mixed fruit)
2 spoonfuls of Cabot Greek Yogurt - Vanilla Flavor (KEY ingredient. Brand matters.)
a little bit of water (you don't need ice if you use frozen fruit)

Blend.

Enjoy.

And viola! The yogurt makes it taste like bubblegum - the kind you want to eat - and the spinach is so unrecognizable. You will be totally proud of yourself for sneaking spinach into your meal. Also try squeezing in some lime juice or orange juice for a little extra kick.

Tip: rinse your blender asap. If you let it sit, the ground spinach is really hard to clean.

p.s. that is my mother's Magic Bullet.

Hey DC, What's Shakin'?

2011-08-26T12:00:00.000-04:00

I wasn't in the earthquake, I was in Ohio. I am sort of sad I missed it, but not really at all when I see pictures of what the commute home looked like. I will also miss hurricane Irene this weekend. Two natural disasters in one week sounds cool, but I'm also glad I don't have to envoke the powers of my own disaster preparedness just yet. Especially since they don't really exist - aside from jars of peanut butter. Instead, I'm going to hold firmly to my belief that no combination of earthquake/hurricane could be quite as fun as snowpocalypse.

Instead, I'm in Ohio for two weeks for work, which is really productive and really awesome. And even though there aren't tremors in my bones from an earthquake, there are tremors in my heart (the good kind) for this guy.

This week we attended a formal event at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, which meant digging through the closet and throwing on my prom dress from 2002. Adam rented a same-day tux, then decided to be completely ridiculous and buy me a corsage.

And last weekend we went to my grandparent's cottage on Lake Michigan. My happiest place on earth with the person that makes me the happiest girl on earth is a great combination. I think the only person who could possibly be more pleased about this than me is my mother. You may have seen the picture she posted on Facebook of me and Adam doing yoga on the beach.

This is Adam sucking up to Grandma.

Is this post too sappy? Please tell me if this post totally makes you want to gag. I apologize in advance if that is the case.

Advice for Staying Single

2011-08-11T15:13:00.000-04:00

I was recently asked to contribute to our ward newsletter offering advice for "surviving and thriving" in the Colonial 1st Ward (aka C1). Which is sort of a funny question, because the most obvious solution for staying in a singles ward is to not get married. I was contacted because I'm one of the 15 longest running members of the Colonial 1st Ward. I was slightly shocked to hear this statistic. I know I've been in DC for a long time (4.5 years), but I didn't realize I was THAT high up on the list for old timers. There are hundreds of people in this ward and coming through this ward all the time, and I've outlived nearly all of them. Sort of awesome and embarrassing, right?

I told my Dad that if I stayed in C1 until I turn 31 I could possibly hold the record for the Longest Ward Member Ever. He said: "There are better records to go for."

I will now be introducing myself in the ward as "Stephanie, one of the 15 longest serving members of this ward."

I think my hair length in this picture can also indicate how long I've been here.

Congress Can't Steal My Joy

2011-07-30T14:55:00.003-04:00

Today is Saturday and I am at work today because Congress can't seem to get their act together. But, I have decided that I will not let this scenario steal my joy. And the thing that is giving me joy right now is my right thumb. That's right. You heard me. You see, last week, I broke the promise I made to myself when I was 17 years old to never buy or wear sparkly nail polish again. But I bought it, and I'm wearing it and I'm loving it - on my right thumb. The Golden Birthday celebrations continue thanks to OPI's "Only Gold for Me" top coat!

The reasons I will continue to wear this on one thumb are:

1. Sparkly nail polish is really hard to remove.

2. Ten fingers seems to be a little much for a 27-year-old press secretary.

See? I'm still smiling. And yes, that is my Bible Cats calendar in the background.

FYI: The term "don't steal my joy" was widely used during the days of Garrette and Stephanie. I think Garrette lifted it from the Joel Osteen daily desk calendar I gave her one Christmas.

More Hermione, Please

2011-07-20T15:25:00.000-04:00

I'm going to just go ahead and say it: the entire Harry Potter empire totally scored when they cast this 11-year-old. I just can't get over how gorgeous she's become through the years. And modest too! They may have had a hunch, but I would call this a "best case scenario."

p.s. I love the dress and pixie cut.

Let Me Help You With Your Hair

2011-07-15T11:43:00.000-04:00

I have two cousins who are both hairstylists and they are both documenting their challenge to style their hair 30 different ways in 30 days.

Mallory is my hair/style muse and Meryn featured the most adorable “hair bow” style today. Their blogs also have some very helpful hair tips and tutorials.

I try to style my hair, but it usually ends up looking the same. I have this secret desire to rock a really short and really awesome haircut someday… but that day is probably a long way away because:

A) I am too cheap to pay for the upkeep.
B) I am committed to keeping long hair until I secure a husband.

So in the meantime, I’m really loving these creative new ideas for styling my long hair. Thanks Mal and Meryn!

Favorite from Mal:

Favorite from Meryn:

The City that Stalks Me

2011-07-07T11:10:00.000-04:00

I’m trying to stop hating New York. Or at least hating ON New York so often. Because truthfully, I love the city and I always have a good time when I’m there. After 4 years of dating 3 different men who happen to live in New York with only a 6 month break, it really has become my second home. My beef with New York is that I feel like I haven’t chosen New York, but rather that it has chosen me. And I can’t seem to get away from its grasp. But that's a story for a different post. Enough about me, more about New York. Since I go there so often, I thought I’d share some of my favorite secrets about the city that I love/hate.

(Note: these are not the typical “where to eat, what to see” tips, although I have plenty of those. Perhaps another different post.)

1. One of the biggest misconceptions about the city is that you shouldn’t drive there because the drivers are totally nuts and parking is too expensive. The drivers are a little insane, but you can hardly drive more than 30 mph on the island so just be careful and you’ll be just fine. Also, street parking is almost always free, and the hardest part about having a car in the city is that they have street cleaning twice a week that requires you to move your car. But, there is no street cleaning on the weekends. So drive there, park your car somewhere, hide all valuables (this includes dismantling any sign of a GPS) and leave it alone (unless you want to go on a day trip and leave the city – see #2). If you are going for just the weekend with a few friends, I can’t stress the secret of driving yourself there enough. But try to borrow an EZ Pass from someone, and offer to give them $$ for the tolls. An EZ Pass could save you HOURS in the car.

2. NYC is really close to the ocean, so use that car you drove up with and go to the beach. Long Beach on Long Island is an LDS singles hub, and Ocean Grove, NJ is a delightful little beach town with adorable streets lined with old Victorian-style homes. You will make friends with locals easily if you say: “Have car, willing to drive to beach.”

3. My favorite, favorite thing about the city (besides the men I date) is the food. Ask people in the know (i.e. me or people who actually live in New York) where you should eat. If you tell me you went to NYC and ate at Applebee’s, I will never speak to you again because we clearly have nothing in common.

4. I am convinced that the best way to see the Big Apple is on a bicycle. Don’t be afraid. You won’t die. And you will get around faster and have a better experience than in a car, taxi, bus or subway car. Rent or BYOB.

5. Apartments in New York are the size of a shoebox, and even one extra body is an inconvenience. Recognize this and don’t ask if you and 3 friends can crash with that friend of yours that you haven’t spoken to since college. If you do crash with friends, express verbal gratitude, leave a thank you note, and a small token of appreciation.

6. Take the bus at least once around the city. The subway is easy and efficient, but not as fun as riding above ground.

7. Don’t hang out in Times Square for too long. You will pick up bad tourist habits.

8. Don’t bear your testimony in sacrament meeting. Save it for your home ward.

9. A lot of places in NYC don’t accept plastic, so bring cash, but not enough cash that if you got pick pocketed you would lose your life’s savings. And refills on drinks aren’t free. Deal with it.

10. If you want to see a Broadway show, go to the show’s ticket office first. Usually they have good deals for students, partial viewing seats or standing-room only seats. If that doesn’t work, try the TKTS booth at times Square. Or, try to win the lottery. Most of the big shows hold a lottery a few hours before the show. If your name gets chosen, you can chose to buy 1 or 2 tickets for a front row seat for $30 each. The key phrase here is FRONT ROW/$30. If you’re feeling lucky, you should definitely go this route.

11. Wear good walking shoes and layer your clothing. Check the forecast before you go.

12. New Yorkers aren’t nice. If you go into it with that mentality, you will be better off.

13. People from New Jersey are worse than New Yorkers.

14. There will come a time in your life when shopping on Canal Street for fake designer purses and jewelry and pirated movies from China will lose its luster. Make sure you know where you stand before you head downtown. And never follow a Chinese person into the backroom or to a second location.

15. Go to New York. Stop talking about how you want to go and plan a trip, because you are now ready to heart NYC!

Sea Turtles & Me

2011-06-27T16:31:00.001-04:00

My trip to Trini rocked the house. I'll spare you all the awesome details and just post some sweet turtle pics but just know this:

Trinidad > Duck

The Trini crew. Geology major to my right, geography major to my left. Can you guess who was the odd woman out?

My new bestie!

Impromptu waterfall shower from Jeanette. Love this girl.

New beach friends. They're like 14 yrs old.

"Will you tag me on Facebook?" (This picture looks a lot more scandalous than it really is.)

Come ashore, lay eggs, back to the ocean. Swim. Mate. Repeat.

"Oh hello there 1,000 lb sea turtle. Please don't wack me with your flipper. -xoxo Stephanie"

This is her good side. She told me so.

Turtle egg that didn't make it. Don't be sad, it's the circle of life.

Have I told you about my obsession with fake tattoos? Bindi tats courtesy of the Fab India Expo.

Our new friend from church. She loved my hair and asked me about my "spots."

Unfortunately Titled Fashion Trends

2011-06-20T17:15:00.000-04:00

Did you know that these little one-pieces are called Rompers?

I actually tried some on at Target a few weeks ago (beach coverup perhaps?) and if I didn't have any self-respect I would post a picture of myself in them. Let's just say that long legs + short waiste do NOT = a successful romp. I looked more Steve Urkel than fashionista. More power to ladies who can actually pull these off.

But really? Rompers? And have I really used "romp" in two blog posts in two months?

There have got to be some other unfortunately titled fashion trends. I'm going to start keeping track. Let me know if you think of any. In fact, I'll send the identifier of the best worst-named fashion trend a treat.

The Gossip Girl Inside

2011-06-16T16:26:00.000-04:00

I am also a dancing machine.

I try to be a good person. Really I do. I try not to say mean things, think mean thoughts, manipulate, lie or corrupt.

But there is this part of me that loves a good scandal.

I work in politics and read a lot of news, but more often than not I find myself clicking on the sensational headlines. I regularly check Capitol Hill’s own gossip section “Heard on the Hill” and peruse People.com.

An Arnold Schwarzenegger love child?! I can’t believe Sandy was EVER married to that creep Jesse James. Don’t even get me started on John Edwards and Tiger Woods. And Weinergate is currently going down just a few doors away.

I wasn’t planning on watching the Bachelorette this season but I saw the previews of Bentley and all the messed up things he said. How could I miss it?

And then there are the crimes and unsolved mysteries.

The day they released the undercover video of Joran van der Sloot confessing to the murder of Natalee Holloway was like the best day of mine and Garrette’s lives. (Justice for Beth Twitty!) Two weeks ago, I watched a one-hour special about Amanda Knox. The Casey Anthony trial is going on right now and THAT is what I thought about last night as I was falling to sleep.

Did you hear Jaycee Dugard is writing a tell-all?

However, a few weeks ago my Bishop reiterated the ward theme for the year, which is the 13 Article of Faith. It reads: “We believe in being honest, true, chaste, benevolent, virtuous, and in doing good to all men; indeed, we may say that we follow the admonition of Paul—We believe all things, we hope all things, we have endured many things, and hope to be able to endure all things. If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy, we seek after these things.”

If I’m being honest with myself, a lot of the “news” I’m consuming for my “job” are a far cry from the virtuous, lovely or praiseworthy things in life. Is all this scandalousness I’m reading (and, naturally, passing judgment about) like second-hand sinning?

But then again… for my birthday, Sarah Olson wrote out 27 reasons why she loves me. Number 27 was because I make knowing about pop culture seem like “a celebration of life.”

Perhaps I should embrace my insatiable appetite for a sensational story and useless celebrity knowledge and chalk it up to my journalistic background. Or, maybe I need to tone down the consumption.

But one thing’s for certain: when it comes to the crime stuff, I am my mother’s daughter.

I'm Turning Into One of Those Old Girls that Travels a Lot

2011-06-07T13:47:00.000-04:00

I have lots to share about turtles and Trinidad. But I'm currently working in Ohio and am having little success finding time to adequately document my vacation. I'll probably throw up a picture in a few days and call it good. Take away message from my trip is: Go To Trinidad. It's awesome.

In other news, I went to the Mormon singles ward in Columbus, Ohio on Sunday, where my dad is the bishop. It's sort of awesome to go to a singles ward with your parents. I was chatting it up with two girls who recently graduated from high school and are attending BYU-Idaho in the fall. In the course of our conversation, they seemed confused as to why I wasn't in college anymore.

Finally they asked: "How old are you?" I smiled and said, "I'm 27." They looked stunned. And then one of their faces brightened, and the girl looked at me encouragingly and said, "Well, you don't look that old!"

hahahaha

Ducking Out

2011-05-26T14:32:00.000-04:00

See you in September, Duck!

As many of you are aware, tomorrow commences the annual celebration known as Duck Beach, when hundreds of single Mormons over the age of 18 head to the outer banks for a weekend of sober partying and mind-boggling amounts of "hanging out." What started out as a group of DCers doing group houses along the banks of the Outer banks has turned into nearly 1,000 singles migrating from all across the country and stuffing 30+ people into every nook and cranny of a rented beach house in the sleepy town of Duck, North Carolina with bright hopes of meeting a spouse.

No seriously. This year someone is actually bringing a film crew with plans to produce a documentary about it.

I have spent 4 Memorial Day weekends and 3 Labor Day weekends at Duck in the last 4.5 years. I have certainly done my time, but this Memorial Day, I'm passing on Duck. Instead, I'll be heading to Trinidad - the tiny island in the south of the Caribbean, within eyesight of Venezuela. I am going with two of my favorite DC ladies - my lovely roommate and favorite travel partner, Jeanette, and our dear friend and world-renowned cartographer, Kellee. We are going to watch leatherback sea turtles come out of the ocean to lay their eggs on the beach under a full moon. I'm totally pumped. We've got a couple of other things on the docket as well... i.e. henna tattoos! Exotic, right?

Up until the evening we bought our flights I thought we were going to Turks and Caicos to watch sea turtles mate, which shows you my amount of involvement in planning and preparing for a trip. I did end up buying tickets to the right island and will pack accordingly. After further considering the options, I am very pleased to know we'll be watching eggs hatch, not turtles mate.

Help Determining Your Level of Pant

2011-05-20T12:25:00.001-04:00

The pant drama has gripped a nation, and many sources are weighing in on the validity of leggings/jeggings and tights in the context of pant-like coverage and appropriateness. Though I addressed this issue months ago (here and here), I guess the confusion has continued.

This chart is very effective when struggling to answer the question: Am I wearing pants or no pants?

Although I did buy my first pair of jean-like jeggings a few months ago. And I am pleased with my $12 purchase I've worn once.

My Cooking Anxiety

2011-05-16T10:40:00.000-04:00

I'm part of a wonderful dinner group with 9 of my favorite people (namely, Amber, Patricia and Brian). It's lovely. I get home-cooked meals 3 nights a week amongst great company (we're like a family!) and only have to cook once every 3 weeks. Everything about it is great - except every 3 weeks when I have a panic attack about what to cook. I love to bake, but cooking stresses me out. The last couple of times I've cooked I've gone to Costco and bought something that's foolproof. (Sorry family.) But that's not the point. The point is: I should try new things. I should explore cooking. Cooking for 10 can be fun, right?

It's my turn again on Wednesday, so if you have any suggestions for fairly simple meals you can cook in a reasonable amount of time, please share. I know, I sound totally awesome, if awesome = totally lame. But like I said to my dear friend Pete Chat yesterday at church, I have spent the last few years developing my career, not honing my domestic skills. Unfortunately, the men I date suffer the most. I could eat rice, seaweed and avocado polished off with a little microwaved cookie dough for every meal, but I understand that is not a sustainable diet for the masses.

Once again I'm learning the very difficult life lesson that I don't just grow up and magically assume all the delightful talents and abilities of my mother.

Watch Out World, Garrette's 30!

2011-05-14T00:17:00.001-04:00

Garrette likes dogs more than people.

I don’t do birthday shout outs on this blog. But I do talk about Garrette. And yesterday was her birthday, her 30th birthday to be exact. Doesn’t she look great for such an old bird? (Note: all these pictures are at least 2 years old.) We had a great time celebrating last night at a birthday happy hour with all her closest loved ones.

Garrette and I worked together for a Senator from Ohio for three years. In title, I was her assistant. But she never treated me like her assistant and was always willing to do any job she ever asked me to do. She also is one of the wittiest and funniest people I know and made everyday fun and interesting.

Garrette hand-sewed her own muffs for her Bluebell Halloween costume in 2008.

So, on her 2nd official day as a no-longer spry young 20-something-year-old, I thought I’d remind Garrette of some of the ridiculous things she said – or ridiculous conversations she’s been a part of – over the years. (You better believe I wrote this stuff down.) Keep in mind, all of these things were said during work. And Chris was our boss.

"More Medication Please" mug I gave Garrette during her particularly unhealthy year.

1. Garrette: “Why does everyone have to be a stupid idiot but me?” November 18, 2009

2. Stephanie to Garrette: “Not showing butt cheek should not be the standard for shortness.” August 6, 2009 (Stephanie told Garrette her shorts were very short and Garrette argued that they weren’t, saying that they didn’t even show her butt cheeks.)

3. Garrette: “She looks like the type of girl who’d put on little girl pajamas, carrying a teddy bear, and say, ‘yay! Take my clothes off!’” February 5, 2009. Seeing a girl in the hallway who has "stripper-like long" hair.

4. Garrette: “You guys need to stop focusing on what’s on the inside so much.” December 11, 2008 (why pretty Mormon girls date non-attractive Mormon men. Observed at our Christmas party the night before.)

5. Garrette: “She also collects cat figurines and knits.” September 24, 2008 (Embarrassing Stephanie in front of a boy.)

6. Garrette: “When I go tubing I’m too drunk to function.” September 17, 2008

7. Garrette: “I think he’s just going through a Jesus stage. He’ll probably get over it.”
Stephanie: “You want him to get over Jesus?” July 30, 2008 (About our intern’s fight with her fiancé.)

8. Garrette: “I have a great boyfriend. He bought me shoes last night.”
Chris: “That’s called prostitution.” July 29, 2008

9. In response to Garrette tucking a cute little stuffed elephant in at the top of her shirt, Chris said: “It’s not the first time a Republicans been down there.” Summer 2007

10. Garrette: “I have renamed 3 a.m. ‘Time to enter the Hidden Valley.’” July 2, 2008 (Meaning Hidden Valley Ranch dressing and late night drunken binge eating with ranch dressing.)

11. Chris: “You’re the only person that has IBS and constipation at the same time.”
Garrette: “Too bad Wikipedia disagrees.” July 1, 2008

12. Garrette: “Of course he’s Mormon! Why do you think he looks so confused? And bright-eyed and busy tailed?” May 12, 2008 (About David Archuleta.)

13. Garrette: “The more I hear about your friends who get married after three months of dating, the more I realize you have relationship Down syndrome.” April 17, 2008

14. Garrette: “I don’t know how you don’t die. You like can’t function. You need Ritalin.” March 12, 2008 (In response to Stephanie’s failure to repeat her address on command.)

Taken right before Garrette scratched her face on the rhinestones on the butt pockets of a big fat lady while dancing with Jesse (center) at a bar in Ohio during our 2007 staff retreat. The scratch happen on her way up from having been dipped by Jesse. The next morning I showed up at Garrette's hotel room and she said pointing to her face, "Look! I got cut!" I'm not making that up.

I threw this one in because Garrette really likes the way she looks in this photo. Rightfully so, birthday girl.

Happy Birthday Garrette!

A Royal Romp at the Ritz

2011-05-02T18:45:00.000-04:00

Highlights of the Royal Wedding, Ritz Style:

A roomful of awesome fascinators and hats (not normal in America).
The crazy old ladies at the table next to us who brought their dogs in wedding dresses.
Pretending to be British.
Eating a delicious breakfast at the Ritz, although that was not even close to the best part!
Watching the Royal Wedding with some of my besties in D.C.
Our table getting featured in the Washington Post - here and here.

Washington Post's "Going Out Guru" blog.

Familiar shot.

Complete with a fake cake.

I had to get a picture of the screen.

All the Ladies: me, Lady Rowlett-Taylor, Lady Annie Gray, Lady C. Meiners, and Lady Earl.

Even the Brits are on the cupcake bandwagon.

Washington Post online.

Washington Post in print - Saturday's "Style Section" (link complete with video!)

Golden Explosion

2011-04-28T15:39:00.000-04:00

The Dress

The Earrings (from mom's 80's collection)

The Tattoos

The Glitz

The Glams

The "Gilded Age" Stage

The Boyfriend watching via Skype

The After-Party Performance (note the fascinator making an appearance)

All that Glitters is Gold... and Me

2011-04-27T11:01:00.002-04:00

I don't do birthday shout outs on my blog. I think it's become a matter of policy by default. I don't want to miss someone's birthday, and I don't want to have to think of something to say to everyone I love every year on their birthday. It seems tiresome. But today I realized there is only one person's birthday I have continued to acknowledge since the beginning of SSONK: Mine. Here here and here. Perhaps this is me - the professional communicator - trying to control the message. Or perhaps I am just controlling. Or vain. Or both.

Vanities aside, today is my birthday, and a particularly special birthday because it is my golden birthday. Meaning, I am 27 years old on April 27. I happen to love the color gold, so I am just delighted to throw myself an all-gold party tonight. Read: I went to the party store last night and spent $100+ on all things gold. So if you're in the DC-metro area, please come to my party tonight at 8 pm. We will be celebrating all my favorite things: dear friends, delicious chocolate, karaoke, (fake) themed tattoos, kittens and the color GOLD.

And now, a birthday confession. Last night I also went to TJ Max to look for a gold party dress. I found a beautiful black and gold dress. I looked at the price tag in the dressing room and thought, "$54 is sort of a lot..." but convinced myself it was worth it for my golden birthday party. As I stepped up to the counter to buy it, I did a double take and realized the price was actually $154. But by then, I had already sold myself on the dress and I didn't even hesitate to continue through the sale. What is wrong with me?

I'll post a picture of the dress so everyone can judge me. But I'm pretty sure I'm going to chalk this up to an innocent birthday mistake and keep the dress.

Tipping My Hat to the Brits

2011-04-25T15:59:00.000-04:00

I haven’t cared much for the royals lately, though I would be lying if I said I wasn’t slightly interested in Friday’s wedding between Wills and Kate M. My excitement for the big event quadrupled when my friends (and by friends I mean girlfriends) decided to get a table at the Ritz for a royal wedding viewing party and breakfast. It starts at 5 am on Friday. Suddenly, I have a vested interest in the upcoming nuptials.

No British party would be complete without proper British attire, so this weekend I scoured the lower east side of New York City for the perfect “fascinator.” I saw some of the most beautiful hats and fascinators I have ever beheld with my own eyes at Barbara Feinman Millinery, a designer store that makes all their hats by hand in their store. Needless to say, they were much too expensive for this federal employee. We then found some reasonably priced fascinators at The Village Scandal and I bought myself a blue one. I love it.

You're fascinated, right?

Bottom line: The wedding is on Friday and there is still time to get your own hat and watch the ceremony on TV… even if that means watching from your bed at 4 am MST. At least you’ll be wearing a fun hat!

(Net)Working it in DC

2011-04-12T15:01:00.003-04:00

On May 12-13 the BYU Political Affairs Society Washington, DC Chapter will host it's annual "Beyond BYU" event. I'm helping out with the event and am really excited about our prestigious speaker line-up. We will also have more "breakout" sessions Thursday night and Friday, including a panel discussion with Capitol Hill staffers, so participants will have opportunities to ask questions about starting a career in DC and make invaluable connections with some of DC's finest.

I designed the flier myself.

This is a great networking event for anybody looking for a job in DC, or hoping to move there in the near future. Please pass this along to any one that might be interested - more information is on the flier below or visit our website.

Email me if you want the flier in high-definition. It's possible.

Come, Let Us Anew

2011-04-04T22:22:00.002-04:00

Yesterday at sunrise

I went to see the Cherry Blossoms in D.C.

I think God gives us spring

to show us that new beginnings are possible.

Another glorious spring is in order,

and lots of things are blooming.

Spring has brought me such a nice surprise.

Garrette's 3rd Grade Journal

2011-03-31T11:00:00.001-04:00

And suddenly, our friendship makes a lot more sense.

Book Review: Atonement

2011-03-29T18:29:00.000-04:00

Atonement

By Ian McEwan

Published in 2001

A novel. Not to be confused with the term "the Atonement" that is often referred to in various religions, including the LDS religion of which I affiliate.

I thought the book was extremely well-written. I fell in love with the writing, and that is enough to keep me reading. The story set me up for greater expectations, and the second half of the book felt unfulfilling I had a lot of questions I felt could have been answered if the book was longer. I wanted to dig deeper into the character development. Some characters were detailed so beautifully, only to never be addressed again. But the details were incredible and painted a vivid and enthralling picture. The story had some adult themes to it – well, one adult theme that guided the entire plot and story.

The book really makes you ponder guilt, and the people that are affected by your actions every day – whether you realize it or not.

I can’t say I loved the ending, but it was unique, left me guessing, and ultimately left me satisfied – although I can envision a scenario that is MORE satisfying.

I have heard the movie is beautiful, but it is rated R and I don’t watch rated R movies. If you get your hands on an edited version, let me know. I’m sure it is worth the watch.

Half Marathoning My Knees Off

2011-03-21T14:22:00.001-04:00

This weekend I ran the NYC Half-Marathon. Ask me in a week if I'm glad I did it because right now I can't walk. I have been training for two months and things were going well up until about two weeks ago when my knees (or IT bands?) really started giving me problems. I was not sure I could finish the race. But I did! And I felt like a true winner crossing that finish line - until I looked up my stats and realized that I was actually more of a loser in comparison to all the other runners. Almost embarrassingly so. I was getting passed left and right by old people and people that don't look nearly as svelte as me, and that is not a reflection of my svelteness whatsoever.

Keeping warm in a trash bag before the start of the race.

I knew if I stopped running, my right knee would seize up on me and I'd be toast, so I just kept going. And sure enough: as soon as I crossed the finish line my knee buckled and I was done for. I could barely walk. To give you a visual of my incapacitated state, as we were walking to the subway, I was passed by a toddler. I didn't even go to work today because I can't bend my knees. Stairs are currently the bain of my existence.

Some of the highlights:

Running into friends at the starting line, without any technological communication

Fellow runners and friends

Running the loop in Central Park
Running through the middle of Times Square with no cars - only fans

Times Square

Getting encouragement from old women about mile 10, when I really started to look pathetic
Deciding to turn it up and "finish this stupid race" at mile 11, and doing it - and high-fiving everybody in sight to get my mind off the pain
Crossing the finish line
Having this guy (see below and #2) run next to me the whole time, cheering me on
Hearing him say: "We should have started with a 5K"

13.1 miles later... and still smiling!

Like I said, ask me in a week if I'm glad I did it.

Katniss Uncovered!

2011-03-17T14:51:00.000-04:00

Jennifer Lawrence

Now we finally know who will be playing Katniss Everdeen in the Hunger Games, movie based on the book by Suzanne Collins.

And now I can finally put a name with the face of the girl that wore the Baywatch swimsuit-dress to the Oscars.

A Book In Review

2011-03-14T18:14:00.002-04:00

Add Capitol Hill Books to your D.C. bucket list. There are books stacked everywhere, including up the stairs and in the bathroom.

In 2009 I started a New Year’s goal of reading one book a month. It has turned out to be a welcomed goal that has helped me prioritize my love for recreational reading, which stems back from my days of fangled teeth, glasses, living in fantasy land and having a best friend name Molly (my cat).

Side note: If I can find the poem I wrote about Molly being my best friend, please don’t assume I wouldn’t post this out of embarrassment. I will.

I am now starting a new segment of my blog that I will call “Book Review.” In addition to being terribly awkward, I also used to write my own book reviews after I finished books to help me remember the details of the books I read and what I thought about them. I can’t remember if I was crazy or just didn’t have much going on. But starting up this practice of writing my own reviews once again will help me better categorize details about books that I want to remember and share. (I will post my first book review later this week.)

I also have a lot more 4th grade journal entries to post.

I categorize books two ways: the writing and the story. I like a good story, but I love and will devour a book that is well-written. In some ways, I don’t even care about the story or the resolution if I enjoy the writing.

Example:

Good writers = John Steinbeck and Malcolm Gladwell
Good story-teller = JK Rowling

A subset of my goal is to read at least one biography of a spiritual leader a year, and one biography of a historical figure I admire a year. I enjoy fiction and non-fiction alike, though they serve very different purposes for me. If you have any book suggestions, please share!

Books read in 2011:
Atonement by Ian McEwan
Matched by Ally Condie

Books read in 2010:
Common Sense by Glenn Beck
In Defense of Food by Michael Pollan
Absolute Power by David Baldacci
Go Forward with Faith: Biography of Gordon B. Hinckley by Sheri Dew
The Varities of Scientific Experience by Carl Sagan
The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster
The Princess Bride by William Goldman
Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
Charlie Wilson's War by George Crile
Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins
The Help by Kathryn Stockett
Wonderful Town (a compilation of articles from The New Yorker)

Books read in 2009:
Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert
Killer Angels by Michael Shaara
Dandelion Wine by Ray Bradbury
Harry Potter 7 by J. K. Rowling
The Great Divorce by C.S. Lewis
Team of Rivals by Doris Kearns Goodwin
Ezra T. Benson a Biography by Sheri L. Dew
Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
Yearning for the Living God by F. Enzio Busche
Freak the Mighty by Rodman Philbrick
No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
The Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell

February 23 Is A Big Deal

2011-03-07T16:42:00.000-05:00

My sister gave birth to twin baby boys on February 23. Which, coincidentally, was the same day my niece Jada turned 5. So, 3 of my sister's 4 children have the same birthday. We always knew Kalle was the odd one out.

Kimberly already posted this picture on her blog, but I love it so much I just had to re-post. It's the first time she got to hold the babies at the same time.

Apparently, she's making recovery look too easy. My mom is concerned that her friends are getting the wrong impression about post-baby life.

The babies, Tyson Steven and Daxon Craig (middle names after their grandpas) were about 5 weeks early so they have been in the hospital ever since. But, both are doing very well and should be coming home today or tomorrow. My mom has been down there and has been sending me pictures of the little bambinos almost every day.

Ty and Kimberly

This is my favorite one so far - little Dax in his car seat. I can't wait to snuggle these little guys!

I can't even begin to describe how proud I am of my sister. She is a supermom in every sense of the word, and I hope to be just like her one day. Congrats to the Wernli family on the latest additions!

Would You Tell Me If My Hair Looked Frizzy?

2011-03-01T16:11:00.000-05:00

Remember when I was on The Hill's "50 Most Beautiful People" list? I cringe. The entire experience was thoroughly embarrassing, but did open the door to reconnecting with a lot of people. Well, it was recently brought to my attention that there were comments made on random websites about my picture of which I was previously unaware. (Side note: they used to allow comments on the 50 MB article but people were so mean they took away the comments section for these stories. And yes, we're all in high school.)

This from an article posted on the DC social website Guest of a Guest:

"Stephanie Sonksen (Republican); If someone could just fix her hair, she'd be simply adorable."

This is probably the funniest backhanded compliment I have ever gotten. I think if somebody had said I looked fat or old for my age I would be offended, but I know my hair looks a little frizzy in that picture and I am not really that upset about it. Maybe I'm just used to Garrette telling me my hair looks frizzy.

And, if my spirits are down, I can always find comfort and solace in Evan Pokroy, who happens to be a big fan of mine. Check out this comment he made about my picture on Right Wing News:

"Without a doubt Stephanie Sonksen by far the hottest person on that list. But then again I'm a total sucker for Republican's with freckles."

I then found Evan on Twitter (@EvanPokroy). He is a self-described "Clinger to guns and religion" and "internet addict." Think I should I follow his Tweets??

Oh the things we find on the Interwebs. Go ahead, Google your name. It's fun! I promise!

(p.s. it is purely coincidence that this post immediately follows the one where my hair looks really, really, REALLY frizzy.)

D.C. Hearts You, You Just Don't Know It Yet

2011-02-24T18:17:00.000-05:00

If you move to D.C., I can help you.

It was windy.

I promise to:

Help you find a job.
Find you a place to live.
Introduce you to your cool new friends.
Take you shopping and buy you new clothes.
Take you to New York City with me on the weekends.
Take you to the coolest restaurants in Arlington, VA.
Give you a tour of the Capitol.
Take you on a bicycle tour of the monuments.
Give you a platform for carrying out your wildest karaoke dreams.
Show you how to drive home in D.C. rush-hour traffic in record time.
Take you to Costco to get you a membership.
Help you find religion.
Maybe even find you a boyfriend/girlfriend.

I have done many of these things for a bunch of other people, and I am becoming quite confident in my skills. So if you’re interested, let me know. I can change your life.

Garrette and Her Baggage

2011-02-17T23:43:00.003-05:00

Last weekend I helped Garrette clean out her closet. I was there to offer moral support, but ended up getting a pretty sweet deal out of the whole thing. And all I had to do was be boring on a Friday night! I figured my readers needed a little Garrette update, so I documented it. First of all, she dyed her hair brown. Gasp! Don't be alarmed. It's a good move on her part, and it's gotten her a new, awesome boyfriend. Trust me, he's "The One." She's told me so.

Garrette: "Take it or leave it?"

Stephanie: "Leave. That dress is ugly. Sorry I never told you."

Outfits courtesy entirely of Garrette.

Stephanie: "If you walked into a bar wearing that shirt, I would think to myself: 'That girl is 35 and single.'"Notice my thumbs-down in the background.

Halfway through the clean out. You might be wondering, "Is that Ronnie from the Jersey Shore in the background?" Why yes. Yes it is.

Garrette thinks it's ok to keep these high-heeled moccasins. I disagree. We decided to leave it up to my readers.

One more picture of my new loot. Thank you Garrette, for giving me:

4 purses
2 necklaces
2 pair of shoes
1 perfume
1 winter coat
3 jackets
3 scarves
4 cardigans
1 pair of jeans
1 dress
5 t-shirts
3 tops

And I believe in Karma, so I went home and cleaned out my closet and now have a huge pile of clothes in my room waiting for a new owner. So if you're in the D.C. area stop on by!

Free stuff!

Don't forget to weigh in on the question: high-heeled moccasins, or no high-heeled moccasins? (Sort of reminding me of this.)

Beauty Tips to Live By

2011-02-12T15:00:00.000-05:00

In Lucky Magazine's 10th Anniversary December 2010 Special Edition they listed 100 Edicts To Live By. I promise it's worth reading the entire article.

My favorites:

8. Your hair will be shinier if your final rinse is with cold water.
12. Beauty products make the best presents: they seem incredibly personal, but they're not.
20. Sunscreen doubters should consider the amazing linelessness of their body parts that never see the sun.
21. No beauty product can do for you what eight hours of sleep can.
40. Black tights can look great through open-toe shoes. Nude tights can never look great. Full stop.
45. Never get on an airplane without a cashmere blanket or huge scarf.

61. Mixing navy and black or pink and red can look very chic.
63. The one remaining style rule to never break: no more than three colors in one outfit.
68. Your waist isn't where you think it is. It's about three inches higher. Put another way: the most flattering spot for a waisted dress to hit is just under the rib cage.
76. By age 30, every woman should own three pairs of comfortable flats, three pairs of walkable heels, and two pairs of total sexpot stilettos.
75. If you invest in a Chanel bag, you will carry it for the rest of your life.
99. Pairing a boyish piece with a girly one will make you look like you know how to dress.
100. When all else fails, a skinny cardigan can pull any look together.

Also, I also highly recommend their 10 Essential Beauty Tips.

Proof that I really have been sharing this information with friends.

Thanks Lucky!

The Lie

2011-02-12T14:25:00.003-05:00

If you guessed number 4 you were right. I haven't gained 20 lbs lately. I might have gained a few, and I blame those on numbers 1-3. But we're going to call those "happy pounds" because life is pretty good right now. And thanks to my new laptop, I'm able to blog on a Saturday.

And maybe I will tell you more about numbers 1-3... after I finish my book, go running, and blog about cleaning out Garrette's closet last night.

Three Truths and a Lie

2011-02-01T10:50:00.003-05:00

Tell me which one YOU think is the lie.

I recently:

Went to Argentina and Chile for an awesome vacation.
Started dating an awesome guy, who happens to live in New York.
Got an awesome new job as a Press Secretary for a Member of Congress from Ohio.
Gained twenty awesome pounds on purpose.

I figure reader interaction/participation is always fun and healthy.

I report, you decide.

In 2011, I'm Not Even Drinking the Koolaid

2011-01-10T19:33:00.002-05:00

At 11:55 p.m. on December 31, 2010 I was talking to my oh-so-wise and fearless Relief Society President MJ and she told me that she gave up soda for 2010. And that except for two very legitimate instances, she’d stuck to it. After having sucked down four glasses of Diet Coke a few hours prior over a lovely dinner at the Logan Tavern, I decided perhaps it was time to decide to lay off the soda myself.

I never ever drank soda before ever in my life ever until I started working full-time. It was then that I fell into the combo-meal trap (thank you Subway) of getting “chips and a drink” with my meal. Diet Coke fountain drinks were my poison of choice. But no longer! Since I made the resolution to not drink soda I haven’t, and don’t anticipate giving in until January 1, 2012. Hah! I guess I will have to find a new way to feel close to my BFF Kara.

I have turned over a new leaf, obviously.

Additional New Year’s resolutions include:

Read one book a month.
Run the NYC half marathon in March.
Leave the country twice.
Save more money in 2011 than I did in 2010.
Finish re-reading all the most-recent General Conference talks before the next General Conference.
Wear makeup to work everyday.
Help my sister as much as I can when she has her twin boys in March. (hooray!)
Send everyone in my family birthday gifts on time.
Give away three Books of Mormon. (let me know if you want to help me with that one)
Take a trapeze class.
Keep my New Year’s resolutions.

Number 6 is definitely going to be the hardest.

p.s. a special Stork-Santa delivered my baby at Christmas and I couldn’t be a prouder Mac User. Thank you Stork-Santa!

2010 In Repose

2010-12-22T14:06:00.001-05:00

If you were in a coma this year, or just didn't stay up-to-speed on all the goings ons, here's a good recap of 2010. Don't worry, I hadn't heard of like 5 of the big events they mentioned... and I watch TV all day for my job. (Thanks Kjoy for sharing!)

Perhaps I'll give a little recap of my own life from the past year, like I did last year. Except this time, I am confident that 2010 didn't suck. Well, at least not the last 6 months of it.

Getting the Baby’s Room Ready

2010-12-16T10:43:00.000-05:00

I realize that this blog title is misleading. But that’s how I felt a few weeks ago when I decided that I wanted to ask Santa for a laptop for Christmas. I have no idea if Santa is listening, or if I’m going to end up financially abetting such a tall Christmas order, but I figured I’d get my room ready just in case. I think it’s only prudent that a grown-up laptop have a grown-up desk to rest upon. Therefore, I went to Unique – the classiest thrift joint in all of Arlington – and brought this gem home for $15:

It took a little dusting and debugging, but I think it cleans up real nice.

And now I’m ready for the baby.

Christmas in My Head

2010-12-13T10:53:00.000-05:00

My Top 10 Christmas Pop Songs:

1. What Christmas Means to Me (Hanson)
2. My Grown Up Christmas List (Kelly Clarkson)
3. Mistletoe (Colbie Caillat)
4. Last Christmas (George Michael)
5. O Holy Night (Mariah Carey)
6. I Never Knew the Meaning of Christmas (N Sync)
7. Under My Tree (N Sync)
8. This Gift (98 Degrees)
9. These are the Special Times (Christina Aguilera)
10. 8 Days of Christmas (Destiny’s Child)

So maybe most of these songs are the same Christmas songs I’ve been listening to since high school. But who cares? Christmas comes but once a year. Create your own playlist in http://www.grooveshark.com/ and enjoy!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Those People Are Not My People

2010-12-09T16:35:00.000-05:00

This petition came to my office a few weeks ago. When it arrived my co-worker said, "Hey Stephanie, we got a petition from your people." I assured her that she was mistaken, that I was not signing any petition asking Warren Jeffs to be released from prison.

Tailoring Taxis

2010-11-30T13:24:00.001-05:00

This is pretty much the coolest thing I've seen in New York City... and we all know I've spent a lot of time there (especially recently). I vote this the best desecration of private property.

The Tailor NYC

News articles about The Tailor here and here.

And I could tell you who The Tailor is... but then I'd have to kill you. Who cares about Wikileaks when someone is defiling taxis in NYC?!

After Rebuke, Cometh the Love

2010-11-15T14:55:00.001-05:00

Maybe her fashion sense/politics don't mix with mine, but I do respect the woman and the job she does. And we have similar thoughts on the Kardashians. Who'd have thought?

This from a recent article in The Hill:

Secretary of State Hillary Clinton this week used the three buxom Kardashian sisters, who star in the reality show "Keeping Up with the Kardashians," as an example of an unfortunate American export.

Speaking on Australian radio, Clinton told hosts Hamish and Andy that the "Kardashians [are] exactly" what's not to like about American culture.

"If you look at American TV as much of the rest of the world does," said Clinton, "You would think we all went around wrestling and wearing bikinis. I mean, that’s what you would think we spend our entire day doing, right?"

Just thought I'd give Hillary a little credit. Don't judge me, Mom.

Turns Out, Politics Isn't the Only Thing We Don't Have in Common

2010-11-09T16:10:00.001-05:00

The dress Hillary Clinton wore to her daughter's wedding is hideous. I do not understand why nobody talked about the magnitude of ugliness she managed to exceed when she wore this last summer. This dress should have struck an international cord of contempt. Alas, my faith in the "liberal media's left-wing agenda" has all but been solidified in this defiant act of steering clear of this perfect "WTF?" moment.

Hillary's mother, Dorothy Rodham (91 yrs old), on the other hand, looks fabulous. And Chelsea looks pretty good too. So classy. And then former FLOTUS comes in, with the butterfly poofiness... I just don't get it. I just don't get it.

The only thing I get is why Hillary typically sticks to pantsuits.

Garrette Says the Darndest Things

2010-11-02T11:22:00.000-04:00

Recent gchat conversation with Garrette:

Garrette: I want you to get married so bad.

Me: Why?

Garrette: I am just so sick of you dating.

Me: YOU are sick of ME dating?

Garrette: Yes.

Me: Are you sure you're just not sick of YOU dating?

Garrette: Maybe it's a little bit of that too.

More Pant Drama

2010-10-21T18:00:00.000-04:00

Apparently I've become the expert on this matter, as people are coming up to me, showing me a picture of someone, and saying something like "pants or no pants?!!"

So, what say you, readers, pants or no pants? I say no pants, but this outfit is appropriate because her sweater is long enough. White shirt arguably not long enough, but I do not anticipate seeing any bum bum if this young lady did a twirl for us.

Please note: The identity of this person has been concealed to protect the potential victim from fashion backlash.

The Day Garrette Didn't Wear Pants to Work

2010-09-24T16:42:00.000-04:00

This is long overdue, but I promised some good stories about Garrette. I swear, the flakiest thing about me is my lack of blog consistency. I seriously neglect http://www.ssonk.blogspot.com/. I just don’t care enough. At least I admit it.

Here’s one about Silvey I’ve been hanging on to-

One day, Garrette showed up to work like this:

I told her that she came to work wearing no pants. She insisted that she was in fact wearing pants. So, we decided to let public opinion rule and walked around to every person in the office posing this question:

Upon first glance, would you say Garrette is wearing pants, or no pants?

Pants = 4 votes

No Pants = 13 votes

Clearly, no pants.

Notable comments:

Jesse: “That looks very slutty.”

Doug: “Those are pants, but I wouldn’t say they are work appropriate pants. But that is between you and the Senator.”

Joe insisted they were pants because there was no “toe-situation.” (And no, I’m not explaining what that means.)

Conversation between Garrette and our chief-of-staff Phil after he gives her outfit a disapproving look:

Garrette: “I was running late this morning.”

Phil: “So you decided to save time by not putting on any pants?”

Moral of the story: leggings can only be worn to work when your shirt is long enough to cover your bum bum, though closer to the knee is strongly encouraged.

Bikes and Pies

2010-09-21T17:36:00.000-04:00

This past weekend I went to New York and biked around to delicious pizza and dessert places in Manhattan and Brooklyn. Note the homemade fake tatoo.

I have clearly been having too much fun to blog.

Fighting Crime in Riverside

2010-08-30T17:26:00.000-04:00

Last week I was in California. If you didn’t know this, you obviously don’t follow my Facebook page or Twitter account. I spent 2 days with friends in Huntington Beach, saw family in Orange, had sushi and a sleepover with my old roommate Erika in San Diego, and worked from our district office in Riverside for 4 days. It was a fabulous trip.

The highlight was going with my boss on a helicopter ride with the Riverside County Sherriff’s Department. We rode along with them as part of their routine runs and saw some areas of our district. We even found my boss’ house from the air.

Since we were on patrol, we responded to a report about a stolen vehicle. Thanks to the LoJack Car Security System installed in the car, we knew the general area the car was in. From 1,000 feet in the air, we began looking for a silver 4-door truck. In my head I’m thinking, “Yeah right, like we are going to find this car.” One police air officer was driving the copter, and the other was looking through these long-range viewing binoculars that could zoom in so far he could read license plates. After about 10 mins of me and my boss saying, “What about over there? There’s a silver truck. How about that one…” we FOUND IT! The guy who stole the car was parked at a gas station and seemed to be minding his own business. We called the cops on the ground and circled around in the air until they arrested the guy. It was awesome! I helped arrest a criminal! I feel like my mom. Her favorite TV show is America’s Most Wanted and she is a model suburban housewife crime fighter. It’s in the blood I guess.

This picture is before all the action and crime-fighting started. Obviously, once I went into full police-mode, I was too busy to take pictures.

Moral of the story: don’t buy silver, white or black Honda Civics or Toyota Camry’s. They will get stolen. Thank goodness I drive a yellow Volkswagen Beetle. No seasoned criminal would dare mess with it. Or me.

Bump It Up!

2010-08-18T13:22:00.000-04:00

My friend Leanna moved to Utah last month, leaving a trail of broken hearts in her wake. So naturally, we bought her a Bump It (or the CVS Bump It knock off "Hi-Styles"). Not that Leanna needs any help getting the attention of the fellas, but we wanted to help her maximize her new, Utah experience.

If you happen to see her in Utah, please remind her to wear her Bump It.

Pass the Fries

2010-08-06T11:18:00.000-04:00

Have I mentioned that I really love burgers and french fries? And for some weird reason I love taking pictures at burger joints. (But Good Stuff is my favorite.)

Eating My Words

2010-08-05T19:13:00.001-04:00

One thing I pride myself on being is honest and dependable. When I say I’m going to do something, I do it. And when I say I’m not going to do something, I don’t. Except for this time. This is one of those few exceptions where I have to go back on my word. You may even call me a “sell out.” But I have my reasons, and all of them are seriously and truly for my professional development. For this reason, I have decided to open a Twitter account.

Wait! Put down the rocks and sticks you were planning to throw! I feel so ashamed! Please allow me to explain!

I am the new media manager at work, which means, I should be pretty gosh darn familiar with new media. I have gotten pretty good with Twitter on my boss’ account (we discuss what he wants to say and I help him Tweet it) but I decided that to fully understand the Twitter culture (which, if you can believe it, has found itself a crucial place in politics) I needed to do it on my own. I decided that the trial and error should come from me, rather than my boss.

So, if you still want to be my friend, and even my Twitter follower, look me up. I’m @notsosonk, but you can find me just by searching for my name.

Huzzah! Let’s be friends and Tweet each other love notes.

(This picture is of me trying to hide in my shame. Or maybe I'm just eating french fries...)

Things that are Embarrassing:

2010-07-28T13:12:00.000-04:00

This.

And being banner linked on The Hill's website. That's probably got something to do with the red hair.

Although I really like this, thanks Noelle.

Oh yeah, and remember this? That was awesome.

So I guess I should pat myself on the back for getting another shout out in a fluffy news story.

Just call me Freckled.

Diane's New 'Do

2010-07-23T14:34:00.002-04:00

The only purpose of this post is to show you Diane Sawyer's recent haircut. I love it. What a classy woman. I have heard she's quite the diva in real life, but I've also heard she's stunningly beautiful in person. I just really like her haircut. If you want to watch the entire, awkward interview with Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg, go right ahead, but like I said, not the point of the post. Perhaps the haircut is not new, I admittedly haven't been watching Diane on World News. Hooray for successful short haircuts for women!

P.S. shoes are still no where to be found. But I haven't given up hope. (I'm just saying that so I don't look defeated.)

Calling all Internet Scavengers

2010-07-16T12:46:00.002-04:00

This post is dedicated to people who like Internet challenges, detective work, and rewards (Garrette, Noelle, and Sarah B. perhaps?)

I saw these puppies at a store in Helsinki. Unfortunately, the store was closed. I can't find them online anywhere. If anybody can find them in an American size 8 or 8.5, I will give you a prize. Seriously. I think I would love them that much. The prize will probably be some sort of peanut butter, Sister's Sweet Shoppe-based delicious dessert.

(second from the end, right side)

Ready set GO!

And Noelle, if you find them in London in six months, that still counts. I might even hand deliver your present.

You Probably Called, and Just Hung Up. Right?

2010-07-13T19:14:00.001-04:00

Dear Blog,

I don't feel like updating you anymore.

But I am back from Europe and I had a wonderful wonderful time. My favorite part was being with my family. My least favorite part was coming home to literally zero voicemails on my personal cell phone.

I am contemplating giving a very thorough recount of my trip via blog to have for posterity sake. Or, I might do nothing at all. I will at least post pictures in the near future, because pictures are fun.

Sincerely,

Stephanie

Would you feel like a total loser too if you didn't have any voicemails after being out of the country for nearly three weeks?

Bon Voyage, Farvel, Adieu, Arrivederci, Do Svidaniya

2010-06-08T17:37:00.000-04:00

Dear Noelle, (and per your request)

In 10 days I will be flying to Denmark. In 13 days I will set sail on the Star Princess for a 10-day cruise of the Baltic states. My parents, grandparents, aunt and uncle, sister and brother and law and other aunt are going with me. My Aunt Nanette and I are “roomies.” (YES!!) We will stop in Sweden, Finland, Estonia, Poland, Norway and Russia.

My “circle status,” according to Princess Cruises is “blue” and I have no idea what that means.

I am “in charge” of our day activity in Talin, Estonia, so if you have any great travel tips, please let me know.

After the cruise, I will spend three days gallivanting the United Kingdom with none other than your own brother in law, Jake Lybbert.

Although I am very excited you are moving to London in October, you are late. You should be living there now.

And thank you for sending me this picture of us from your wedding. That was one of the best days of my life too.

Love,

Stephanie

And now, in true Stephanie fashion, the infamous question-after-the-journal-entry: Would you want to go on a cruise to Europe?

A Broken Heart

2010-05-21T11:45:00.001-04:00

I wasn’t exactly sure how to break this news on the blog, but then I realized I haven’t even mentioned Paul since January. So you probably suspected we broke up. Well, we did – last month. I am sad. If you see me in person, I don’t like talking about it so it’s probably better if you don’t ask. But for some strange reason I don’t mind writing about it, and I shared my feelings very publicly today on a blog called The Apron Stage. Read it here. It’s about my broken heart. I hope it doesn’t make me sound too depressed – I’m just working through my grief.

I accept gifts with cash or no cash value, condolence chocolate chip cookies and guilt trips to visit me in D.C.

xoxo

My Niece is Better than Yours

2010-05-19T18:56:00.000-04:00

I just have to share this video of my niece Jada. She is 4 years old and gave her first talk in Primary on Sunday. My sister had her give it again the next day for the camera.

Jada spoke about the fourth Article of Faith, which in our church is "We believe that the first principles and ordinances of the Gospel are: first, Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ; second, Repentance; third, Baptism by immersion for the remission of sins; fourth, Laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost."

To learn more about our church visit here or here.

Don’t worry folks, she’s no one-hit-wonder, this girl can recap the stories of the Book of Mormon better than me, and she’s already sung “I am a Child of God” in front of hundreds of people at church. She knows her ABC’s, all the LDS prophets, and lots of other things. Oh and I have an awesome video of her falling asleep sitting up. I’ll send it to you if you want.

I love Jada. I fell in love with her the first time I saw her, right after she was born. It was this instant connection that I had never felt before – I was her aunt. She’s mine. I love watching her grow up. I have never extorted her on my blog before but now seemed like a good time to do it. Congratulations Jada! Auntie Stephie loves you!

Living the Group House Dream

2010-05-17T14:05:00.000-04:00

Just look at my room and tell me I’m not a grown up. I’ve come a long way from this.

Don’t worry – I don’t let all this grown-up-ness go to my head OR get me down. Honestly, it took Erika moving out and selling me all her stuff and two visits from mom to help me decorate to get my room looking this way. But it does feel great to enjoy my living space.

3+ years in D.C. and I definitely feel permanent. Definitely more permanent than the 45 percent of my ward that has moved to D.C. in the past 9 months. (That stat brought to you by Bishop Wellington from his “State of the Ward” address he gave in church yesterday.)

My Birthday Cake

2010-05-12T16:00:00.000-04:00

It's a flaming pile of cookie dough.

It was perfect, if you can't tell by the look on my face. Thanks roommies.

Aprons with Attitude

2010-05-06T18:09:00.000-04:00

These aprons are so cute, they might even convince me to cook. Just call me an Apronista!

Favorite quote from this LA Times article about the apron revival: "Aprons don't hold us back — they take us back." I think The Apron Stage incited this whisk and wooden spoon riot.

Stephanie says: aprons are the new cupcake. You heard it here first.

I Am New Stephanie, Hear Me Roar

2010-04-26T18:02:00.001-04:00

The old Stephanie ate endless amounts of chocolate, without thought of consequence.

The new Stephanie has been cutting back. In fact, when she made brownies on Saturday for a party, she ate some batter and actually felt a “sugar rush” – a feeling she had grown quite immune to.

The old Stephanie was the fattest she’s ever been two weeks ago.

The new Stephanie is a few pounds lighter.

The old Stephanie got out of bed roughly 17 minutes before she sprinted out the door for work.

The new Stephanie is contemplating making a 6 a.m. pilates class a regular occurrence.

The old Stephanie was far more careless in her decisions.

The new Stephanie asks herself questions about whether or not the new Stephanie would do that/eat that/say that/allow that.

The old Stephanie never knew what Sunday School lesson they were on.

The new Stephanie reads the lessons for Sunday School and Relief Society the week before.

The old Stephanie complained about her job.

The new Stephanie found a new job and likes going to work.

The old Stephanie didn’t talk in third person much.

The new Stephanie likes talking in third person, it’s much more fun.

The new Stephanie thanks Leanna for the inspiration regarding the reinvention of self.

And the new Stephanie turns 26 tomorrow, Tuesday, April 27.

When Reality Television Really is Better than Real Life

2010-04-19T14:22:00.000-04:00

Sometimes, when I’m all alone, and my thoughts start to wonder, my mind always comes back to the same thing. The same, glorious, reality television moment that I just can’t let go. I’ve thought about it so much in the past year, played it over and over and over and OVER in my mind I thought I was perhaps obsessed in a very unhealthy way.

And then I read THIS article that put all my fears to rest – apparently nobody else can forget the moment either. The moment is from last year’s American Idol finale show when Kara DioGuardi seriously showed-up “Bikini Girl” by blindsiding her onstage, overpowering her with her vocals, and then topping it off with a nice reveal of Kara’s own bikini-clad (and in better shape without the fake boobs) body. Ohh it was sweet sweet victory for a New Jersey girl pushing 40 who’s worked for what she’s gotten in life. Kara would have never done it had Bikini Girl not knocked Kara’s vocals during her tryout. Alright, enough re-living the moment, let’s watch it!

You have to start with Bikini Girl’s audition to really understand:

And now, the moment I can’t stop thinking about:

Oh and American Idol is sooo lame this year. Crystal Bowersox will win. The end.

It Just Makes Cens(us)

2010-04-15T11:11:00.000-04:00

Did you know?

It costs the government just .42 cents to receive a questionnaire back in the mail, but cost taxpayers $57 if a census taker has to go out to a house to collect the same information. If every household mailed back their census form, taxpayers could reduce the cost of the census and save $1.5 billion.

Do your part and mail it back America! If you don't, this is what will happen to you:

Check out the 2010 Census website for more information: http://2010.census.gov/2010census/

No More Easter Candy

2010-04-12T20:45:00.001-04:00

My craving for Cadbury Mini Eggs was suddenly cured when I stepped on a scale. I have one bag left and no desire to eat them. Maybe I'll bust them out when I get back to the weight I thought I was. And now I'm going to echo my friend Noelle's blog and write a letter to myself:

Dear Metabolism,

Why have you suddenly put on the brakes? Is this what happens to a woman's body when she is weeks away from turning 26? I don't like the idea of having to answer to my bad dietary habits. I guess this is part of being a responsible adult. This stinks.

Even Though it's April Fools Day, This is Not a Joke

2010-04-01T10:47:00.000-04:00

Question: How many bags of Cadbury Mini-Eggs should I buy before Easter? Should I premeditate my post-Easter cravings? Or do I withstand the great temptation and deal with the consequences later?

(P.S. I think the greatest gift one could ever give me would be to surprise me with a bag of Mini-Eggs in, oh, say, September.)

First Day of School

2010-03-24T09:32:00.000-04:00

At least it felt like the first day of school yesterday (picture taken pre-makeup application) for my first day at the new job. By the end of the day I felt like I'd been hit by a truck. But it was great and I think I'm really going to like it. I still have lots to say about Garrette just can't find the time to formulate all my ideas about why she's the Best Boss Ever...

Last Day

2010-03-19T14:27:00.000-04:00

I almost cried in my exit interview. He has been a wonderful boss. I think I just dug myself a huge hole though: I told him I'd do his genealogy. If anybody has any tips on getting started, let me know.

More on Garrette wearing no pants to work in a minute...

Climbing My Way Up Capitol Hill (figuratively)

2010-03-15T19:05:00.004-04:00

Life update: I got a new job. Starting next Tuesday, I’m going to be the New Media Manager/Legislative Assistant for a Congressman from southern California. My senator is retiring at the end of the year, so I've been looking for my next step for a few months now. This opportunity sort of fell into my lap and everything happened so fast. In many ways, I'm sitting here wondering what the heck just happened myself.

Last week I had a gchat conversation with a friend from California to tell her the news. Her reaction reminded me that I was making absolutely no sense to somebody who doesn’t work in D.C. or understand “Hill” lingo:

ME: i have a secret

FRIEND: WHAT?!

ME: i got a new job working for a CA member

House of Reps

FRIEND: what?

FRIEND: does this mean you are moving here?

ME: no, but i might be coming to CA for work now!

HER: just temp?

ME: no its full time

FRIEND: where will you live?

ME: i'm going to be the new media manager/ legislative assistant in his DC office

FRIEND: oh cool

what does that mean you do?

ME: haha, stuff

similar to what i do now

FRIEND: so basically pr stuff?

That's right. I am a communications professional that can't communicate.

Essentially, I’m going to be doing new media stuff, but also taking on a portfolio of legislative issues, which is cool. It’s going to be a steep learning curve but I am excited for the new opportunities. I have been with the senator for three years now and I could not have asked for a better office or place to start my career. I have such deep respect for my boss as a person, and will miss having such a practical and bipartisan member of the U.S. Senate. I also feel honored to have developed a personal relationship with a man who is arguably the most respected and well-known man in the state of Ohio.

But more than anything, I will miss Garrette. We have become best friends and I believe we will remain best friends, but it won’t be the same as being forced to sit next to each other every day. She has been my confidant, comedic relief and true friend through so many good times and bad, day in and day out for three years. I don't know how I'll get along without her. Luckily, I usually know where to find her (on gchat).

So stay tuned this week for daily blogs on what I’m going to miss about Garrette… and you know they will be good.

Relief

2010-03-12T15:26:00.001-05:00

I just finished a big project at work. The Senator, who is currently reviewing the project, just called Garrette to tell her his initial thoughts on it. When Garrette said that he thinks it's "terrific" I fell out of my chair and onto the floor. And Garrette took a picture. Below is a visual. Can you tell I'm relieved?

TGIF.

Free Peanut Butter, Thanks to Kathie Lee and Hoda

2010-03-11T13:12:00.004-05:00

Great news! My parent's peanut butter, Crazy Richard's, was featured on The TODAY Show yesterday. Watch it below, or click HERE.

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

It is seriously a dream come true. I watch Kathie Lee and Hoda all the time and I never thought I'd live to see the day Kathie Lee would try our peanut butter on air. It was recently selected by Prevention Magazine as one of the best packaged foods you can eat. The only ingredients in our peanut butter is PEANUTS and it is so delicious.

We are all so excited about it that we've decided to give away free jars just for spreading the love. If you link to my sister's peanut butter blog (http://www.blog.kremaproducts.com/) on your blog or facebook or twitter or anything, email my Aunt Nanette at nanette@kremaproducts.com and she'll send you a complimentary jar. (See? I told you it was a family business.)

Thanks TODAY Show!

Hitting the High Marks

2010-03-09T18:16:00.000-05:00

I ate cookie dough for breakfast three times last week and dinner twice. I even brought a bunch to work and gnawed on it at work. That is gross.

Moral of the story: don't buy cookie dough or I will eat it for every meal until it is gone. Now pass me the Cadbury Mini Eggs!

When Sucking Up Works Like a Charm

2010-02-22T17:03:00.000-05:00

I just had a reporter say "I am collapsing in gratitude over here" to me. I haven't really helped her out yet, and made only luke warm promises so as to avoid any real consequence. But I recognize she's totally buttering me up, and it's totally working. I also am very doubtful she is actually from New York.

Bragging Rights

2010-02-18T18:59:00.001-05:00

Get ready to be jealous, because this girl just moved in with us:

That’s right, we totally talked Kimberly Gardner into moving into the “dorm room” (aka my old room, which is the size of a closet). I think the Phillipines got the best of her mind and she made a rash decision based on people she used to trust (us).

I really like Kim/living with Kim because everything that comes out of her mouth is funny. Or at least I think so. I used to think I was the funniest person in our house but I’m happy to pass the torch over to Kim because she earns it. Every day. (I also used to think I was at least a contender for the best dressed until Wendy pointed it out that I wasn’t.) I also realized that I picked up the phrase "that blows my mind" from her. She rubs off reeealll easy.

And the real reason I’m blogging about this is because last night I came home to a sick and down-trodden Kim. Our Internet and cable has been out for 3 weeks, the heat had suddenly shut off that evening, and Kim was underneath the covers fighting back the same cold she’s been fighting for 11 days now. The first thing I said to her was, “Oh no, are you going to blog about how mad you are that you moved in with us?” So I decided to beat her to it. Take that, Kim Gard! But don’t worry, I then proceeded to turn the heat back on and convince the neighbors to give me their Internet password. All is well! Although Kim still lives in a shoebox. But at least we have the upstairs bathroom.

Ok one more awesome photo of Kim:

AWESOME.

Hip hip hooray for new, cool, non-Craigslist roommates.

Funny.

2010-02-12T14:26:00.002-05:00

A political cartoon from the Toledo Blade. About the only good thing I've seen come from that newspaper. In case you can't read it, it says: "Whaddya know... the Saints won the Super Bowl and Hell froze over on the same weekend."

Snowpocalypse 2010

2010-02-09T17:00:00.000-05:00

I am currently living amongst the most epic, record-breaking Snowtorious B.I.G., snowtastic, snOMG3.0, Snowpocalypse SNOW STORM D.C. has seen since the 1800's. It has included 25+ inches of snow, Internet/cable outages, sacrament meeting with my FHE group, lots of karaoking, lots of game-playing, movie watching, food cooking, snow shoveling, ice chipping and some quality roommate time. And more snow is in the forecast for tonight. I am loving this. I might regret that sentiment if our power goes out tonight, however. Luckily, I created an emergency plan that will go into full effect the minute those lights begin to flicker.

Tomas and his LDS Look-a-like

2010-01-27T19:22:00.000-05:00

Is it just me or does Tomas resemble my former home teacher and one of my best friends' husband Lincoln Essig?

I Know A Place in San Juan...

2010-01-25T18:27:00.001-05:00

Since we last spoke, I went to Puerto Rico for four days only to come back and be swamped at work. Here are some things that have been on my mind:

I totally recommend Puerto Rico. If you go, stay at the Andalucia guest house in San Juan. Then, drive over to the west coast and rent a Pelican Point apartment in Rincon. Your back door is the ocean. Awesome.

My experience with the food was awesome. And yes, I like plantains.

If you happen to think that you are drowning in the ocean, make sure to catch the attention of a local surfer named Tomas. He will save the life you think you are possibly losing.

In 2005, the good citizens of Puerto Rico were dubbed the happiest people on earth. Perhaps this has really made them want to live up to that label because they are really wonderful people.

To make your trip extra-extraordinary, be sure to take my roommate Jeanette with you. She is awesome. We could have been trapped on a not-exotic and miserable island and still been laughing the whole time. And I'm not just saying that because she doesn't even read my blog.

I consider it a blessing that I don't like Brittney Spears' new song. It is awful. I don't normally like awful songs, but I feel better about myself knowing that I think it is stupid.

The Low Down on Last Year

2010-01-13T13:55:00.000-05:00

I now realize that saying 2009 sucked and then posting a bunch of pictures of all the awesome trips I went on is a little confusing and perhaps self-aggrandising. Let me explain. As I pondered on a seemingly sucky year, I realized that I felt it was a subpar year because I ended it in the exact same spot I began it: same job, same city, same house, same relationship status, same haircut, same car, same daily routine etc. I think that's the first time in my life adult life where something seemingly "big" didn't transpire in a 12-month period. And that is great. I think that means I'm growing up. And life is really good.

2009 Didn’t Suck, I Just Thought It Did

2010-01-12T15:18:00.000-05:00

As I reflected on the past year, all I could think was “2009 sort of sucked.” And then I remembered that I moved out of my closet-sized room and into a huge room with my own huge bed and TV, and remembered that I am now driving to work (goodbye metro, I don’t miss you at all). I also traveled every month in 2009, saw a lot of dear friends and spread a lot of love and hugs. And even though I can’t lift an ebelskiver pan with one hand and I just discovered that I can’t squat down with both feet flat on the floor without falling backwards, I think I have enjoyed relatively good health (though not much strength or flexibility). I also discovered the deliciousness of toffee flavored Symphony bars.

So yeah, I guess 2009 wasn’t too bad. Here’s a recap:

January – started the year in Jerusalem with the fam. Attended President Bush’s departure ceremony and teared up a little. Went to New York.

February – took my first trip to Texas, and celebrated Valentine’s Day with Paul and the entire Dozier clan in Houston. Didn’t go to New York.

March – went on a road trip with two of my roommates back to Dublin to see the Fruitcake Sister’s in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Went to New York.

April – went to Florida with Paul to visit my sister, brother-in-law and adorable nieces. Went to New York.

May – participated in Duck 2009, posing like a New Yorker in the epic New York beach house. Went to New York twice.

June – flew to Arizona for Breck’s wedding. Flew to Vegas for a bachelorette party with crazy (but not “Vegas crazy”) roommates. Met up with Paul and my parents for a weekend in New York.

July – Watched the 4th of July fireworks from the Jefferson Memorial, a spectacle that brought me to tears. Not because of patriotic feelings that stirred inside my soul, but because of the ash from the fireworks that was unfortunately blowing directly into my eyeballs. Went to New York.

August – Flew to Michigan with Paul to spend a few days with my family at our cottage, where we “caught air” while going off sand dunes in a dune buggie. Went to New York twice.

September – Road tripped with my cousin Alex to Ohio for my sister’s best friend Lekha’s Indian wedding. And by the way, it was off the hook. Went to New York twice.

October – Flew to Boston for my first Fallapalooza vaca in New Hampshire. A great way to celebrate Columbus Day, autumn leaves, and fall friendships. Parents and grandparents visited my office in D.C. Went to New York twice.

November – Spent a nice long week in Ohio with the fam. Played dodge ball after Thanksgiving dinner and took a two day road trip to Michigan to retrieve my grandparents for the Pilgrim/Indian-inspired occasion. Didn’t go to New York.

December – Had an awesome Christmas with the fam in Michigan, followed by a fantastic week of friends and fun in Utah.

Here's to 2010!

It Was Bound To Happen

2010-01-06T17:54:00.000-05:00

It was bound to happen: the Twilight hysteria was destined to meet the Mormon singles phenomenon - a much more complicated scenario a post college co-ed can find him or herself in than falling hopelessly in love with things that want to kill you. In this made-for-Stake-Film-Festival feature presentation, Maria Pedroza uncovers some of the misconceptions, heartaches and tragic love affairs that are all too well-known amongst LDS singles.

Most people in the Mormon single community have seen this video already but I'm posting it anyway because it's really funny. (Although a little too close for comfort. So what if Paul and I are 13 years apart? It's a coincidence, I promise.)

And now I'm going to brag: I know Maria, producer of the film. I knew she was brilliant when I first met her in 2005. I also know most of the people in the film. And Paul is convinced that he inspired the "10 times to Duck Beach" comment. Just so you all know, I have gone to Duck 5 times, so I'm quickly catching up. Please enjoy.

Twilight Years from Tom on Vimeo.

iTravel

2010-01-05T18:06:00.002-05:00

In the past 11 days, I have slept in 11 different beds. I have traveled from D.C. to Columbus, to Michigan, to Chicago, to Utah and back to D.C. I have argued with cab drivers and rental car managers. I have seen a lot of very dear friends and family and I feel very thankful to have received a paycheck while I played with these dear friends and spent way too much money at the Banana Republic Outlet. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

A Chronology of Weather

2009-12-20T11:29:00.005-05:00

Before...

During...

After.

Snow Day Saturday

2009-12-19T13:19:00.003-05:00

My posts usually involve "after-the-fact" type of scenarios in my life. I read this book, I went to this place, I did this, I saw that.

Well, here is an up-to-date, almost Twitter-like breaking news alert about my life - and probably the millions of people within the greater D.C. area:

I AM SNOWED IN. We are all snowed in.

There is a huge snowstorm and I am waiting it out. Good thing I went to the store last night, per my mother's advice and along with thousands of other frightful winter-adverse citizens, and stocked up on provisions. I am now loaded with eggs, milk, bread, cookie dough and potato chips. I just spend the past 30 minutes try to shovel our driveway and walk, only to realize that the snow accumulates back in less than 10 mins. I am now going to watch a movie and eat, which is actually really exciting to me. There are not many opportunities in life where I find myself forced to be lazy. If you call me, I will probably answer, unless I am napping. Today was supposed to be a shopping day so nobody is getting presents this year, sorry. And I am really truly sorry for all my friends who missed their flights home today for the holidays. I have to go now. Goodbye.