Snow is Everywhere!!

THIS IS WHAT I WOKE UP TO
SUNDAY MORNING!

Last weekend, Minneapolis found itself in the first big snow of the season! I never heard the final count on how many inches, but from personal experience, it had to have been around 8 - 12 inches out there. Despite the crazy weather, I had a few appointments to keep!

MY CAR AT THE END OF THE NIGHT...

Recently I have been invited to stand up as a groomsmaid in my friends' wedding. I went to high school with both the bride and groom, and I am super excited to be included in the wedding party! My appointment to keep, no matter the weather, was at David's Bridal to try on dresses and see what would work the best! I brought my friend, Jenni, along for moral support and opinion. Afterwards, we had planned to do a number of shopping excursions for Christmas presents. I'll have you know we did all of the above and then some! By the end of the night, we dyed my hair too!!

This short and sweet little blog post is to share the few photographs I have from the big snow and the change in my hair color.. I couldn't help it. I am just so excited about it!!

BEFORE... 

...AFTER!

...AND A FEW DAYS LATER. I'M LOVING IT!!

Musical Musings in Minneapolis

As many of you may or may not know, I have a strong interest in music. In fact, the word 'strong' is probably a bit of an understatement there. I love music. My mom used to say that I have music where ever I go, with bells on my fingers and toes... what ever that saying is! I would have music blarring from my room, something going in the living room/kitchen and music on the TV or stereo in the basement. I just cannot get enough!! Naturally, moving to Minneapolis where stages, shows, concerts and artists are seldom hard to find.. I have begun an adventure of listening!

KNOTS ON A STRING

A few weeks ago, I went to a show at the Fine Line Music Cafe to see a friend of a friend's group, Knots on a String. The show was fantastic. No complaints. The group consists of five girls of various instruments and vocal talents. I loved it so much, I purchased a CD and have been playing it non-stop in my car. Seriously, you can ask my friend Jenni!! :) Check them out on Facebook here!

Towards the end of their sets, they had two girls join them having performed earlier in the evening. It was a great combination. I would highly recommend you check them out at their next event! Like them on Facebook so you can learn of their events in the Twin Cities area!

LUNA AND THE SUNBROTHERS

In the last couple of weeks, I went to see Luna and the Sunbrothers at the 2nd Moon Coffee Cafe. The way I came to learn about this specific event is kind of a funny, small-world story.. I was eating at Pizza Luce with a friend, we were finishing up our drinks and waiting to get the bill when two girls walked in. I turned to my friend and said, "I know her-- that second girl with the curly hair!" She joked something about how I know people everywhere I go... yadda yadda yadda ... but I said, "No! Really! I know her through a friend I worked with at UW- Stevens Point, she went to UW- River Falls!" So I sent a quick text to our mutual friend asking if he knew of her whereabouts and if she was in Minneapolis, to be sure that I didn't look crazy by talking to strangers (even though I do that often). Long story short.. I did speak to her, and she is the lead singer for Luna and the Sunbrothers, and ultimately invited us to the show the next evening. Minneapolis just got a heck of a lot smaller. Like them on Facebook here, too! They have another show coming up at the Fine Line Music Cafe next week, you should all be there to check the out!

CHARLIE AND JAKE

On this particular Friday night, I was not doing anything special. Until I received a few text messages from my friend Charlie. He said a friend of his was in the vocal ensemble that was performing out in Apple Valley at a church. I'll have you know, working in the Ticket Services Department for the Minnesota Orchestra, we don't just ticket for the Orchestra, we also do other smaller performing ensembles. With this knowledge, I asked Charlie if it was in fact a Vocal Essence concert at the Sheppard of the Valley Church.. and indeed it was!! We went to see their Welcome Christmas concert, I met his friend who sang with them and we had a great time. The group is quite prestigious and very well known in the Twin Cities. If you're looking for a prime concert, you should look into their next concerts in February, March and April. I would highly suggest ANY of them-- and not because when you call for a ticket, you might get me on the line... because they are actually a phenomenal vocal (and small orchestral) group! Philip Brunelle has done an exquisit job keeping this group to the high exemplary level they are at. *Sorry for not catching an accurate photo of the group, I'll just put Jake as their sole representative, and Charlie, congratulating him on a fantastic concert. Well deserved!

Bravo! As more musical opportunities come about, I'll share them in quick time. For now, all I can do is recommend what I know to be great! I'm so glad I am in a city so appreciative of the arts and what is around!
Sarah Marsh

A Weekend Dream

When someone tells you they are going from Minneapolis to Phoenix at this time of year, you can automatically assume they are snow-birds. This is a person who flies south to get out of the winter. Can you really blame them for doing such a smart thing? It makes you want to be like them and do the same. With that said, I am no snow-bird. I was merely spending a long weekend with family, friends and some stars from the USA Women’s National Soccer team. Yes, you read that correctly. Let me tell you more... 

On Saturday, I flew out of Minneapolis at the break of dawn. Need a more specific time? 4:00AM, my alarm went off and I was at the airport no later than 5:30AM. I am assuming the flight was great, considering I slept the entire way. I woke up as we were descending into Denver for what might have been the shortest layover of my life. My ticket said a half hour, I had about ten minutes to sprint to the next gate and arrived in time to board with zone three! Again, my flight to Phoenix must have been great, because I slept through it! I think this means I am getting too used to traveling. What are your thoughts? 

Upon arrival to Phoenix, I was greeted by my friend Bryce’s parents. Since I didn’t have checked luggage, we were able to leave right away! When we got back to their house, we waited a bit for Bryce to get back from work before we headed out for lunch. I knew I couldn’t go anywhere but Chick-fil-A! It has been my favorite fast food restaurant for quite some time! :) If you have not experienced one, please do so!! 

After lunch, Bryce’s Dad, Bryce and I made a stop to their storage unit to get a mattress for me to sleep on. We made the transition fast and easy with Bryce’s monumentally large truck (his truck fills the lane, and puts you up almost as high as the semi drivers)! As soon as I was settled, we headed out to a new outlet mall area and planned on walking around until dinner before THE GAME: US Womens National team vs. the Republic of Ireland. While shopping, I picked up a cheap pair of UnderArmour running tights- you can’t have enough right?

For dinner, Bryce and I headed to the Yard House to meet our friend, Josh, who was joining us for dinner and the soccer match. Little did we realize, Josh did not know it was a women’s game, or that the match was on during the Big10 Championship game (featuring Wisconsin and Nebraska {which is a big deal because all three of us are from WI}). By having dinner at this steakhouse/bar, we were able to catch the beginning of the football game, too. We were able to eat a delicious dinner, enjoy fantastic Beglium beers, not to mention the Half Yard (also know as a Yard Stick or Tall Boy). Our waiters name was Jason. If anyone reading this goes to the Yard House near the Cardinal's stadium, request Jason! After watching most of the first quarter of the football game, we walked to the stadium, unfortunately about 10 minutes late. We had missed first goal. Luckily for us, the ladies scored again in the first half. This game didn't see as much action as the previous game against the Republic of Ireland earlier this week when we won in a 5-0 shut out.  

JOSH

BRYCE

ME

ABBY WAMBACH (no. 14)

MEGAN RAPINOE (no. 15)

JOSH, ME, & BRYCE

When the game was over, we headed back to the Yard House to see the end of the Wisconsin vs. Nebraska (70 - 31 final) football game... and a few drinks. We requested to be in Jason's section, and boy was that a great idea. I went to the restroom while waiting on our appetizers. On my way back from the bathroom, a short-haired blond was sitting in the booth nearest the hallway. She waved. Naturally, I returned the favor with the same response. It wasn't until I was half way back to my table that I realized that was Megan Rapinoe. When I looked back, I realized Shannon Boxx was sitting with her, too. When I got back to the table to tell the boys about who I saw, Jason approached the table holding a permanent marker. Jason said, "So you guys went to the game, yeah?" We nodded. He continued, "And your favorite player is...?" I responded, "Abby Wambach, didn't you see my jersey?" He laughed and said, "That's why I think you'll be needing this. Your girls in the next section, sitting outside. I'll let you know when she has had her plate cleared. You wouldn't want to interrupt her." And he walked away, leaving the permanent marker on the table. I cannot tell you how uncool I was for the rest of the night. My excitement was just too much. 

I eventually made Bryce get up and go with me to see Megan Rapinoe. Lucky for us, she was getting drinks at the bar by the time we were headed in her direction. Not wanting to disturb or interrupt her conversation with Christie Rampone, I waited a bit longer. As soon as I had a moment, I tapped her on the shoulder, thanked her for a great game and asked for a signature on my left sleeve. I was so stinking excited!! Shortly after Bryce and I headed back to the table, Jason informed us that Abby was done eating. I made Josh come with me this time. He played it off so much cooler than I did.. we walked out to her table, he knelt down and shook her hand, thanking her for the great game today. And he asked her if she would sign my jersey (obviously, because I could not form comprehensible words). I knelt down, too, giving her my right shoulder to sign. She said, "Why don't you turn around, I'll put it on the number!" My jersey just went up exponentially in net-worth. You can bet I won't be wearing it often- let alone washing it ever! 

BRYCE & ME

JENNY & ME

After such an eventful night, we had no choice but to sleep in, enjoy a great home cooked breakfast, and a day full of (more) football games. This must be how the rockstars live.. Wow. I was still basking in glory from meeting two of my most esteemed idols. Once the football games were done and we had collectively outlasted our lazy day, Bryce and I headed to Cave Creek to meet my Uncle Chick, my cousin (driving from California) Jenny and her daughter Phoebe! We had a few drinks at my Uncle's house before heading to Sesame Inn for an oriental treat. It has been years since I last saw Chick, Jenny or Phoebe-- it was just wonderful to catch up (Shelby!! We really missed you!!). This time I even managed to have photographic evidence (my mom always hates it when I forget to photo-document a family get together, which, I have accidentally missed A LOT of opportunities this year)!!

JENNY, CHICK, BRYCE, ME, & PHOEBE

On Monday, Bryce had been called into work in the middle of the night to cover for a co-worker who fell ill. When he finished up with work mid-morning, we headed to the Musical Instrument Museum. I had heard loads about this place from family and friends, I knew I had to stop in. Bryce isn't the most instrumentally interested, so I wanted to be sure we had a good time. We started from the weirder, older instruments and worked our way through the United States & Canada exhibit; eventually ending with country, rock and roll, and famous artists/music from Arizona. Afterwards, we tried our hands in the Experiment Gallery, took a walk through the Mechanical Music Gallery and Artists Galleries. The museum is fantastic. I recommend everyone go! There was so much to see, and the few hours we spent there was hardly enough time to see it all!

After the museum, Bryce and I headed to Cafe Mimi to meet up with my Uncle Chick once more. It is so much fun catching up with family. I could do it all the time! After some coffee, lemonade and appetizers, Bryce and I headed to Oregano's to meet his parents. We had some delicious pizza-- some of the best-- before heading to the Phoenix Zoo to see the Zoolights!

LION

There was so much to see at the zoo! And hardly any animals! A number of the trees were wrapped in lights, which gave it a beautiful effect. These pictures hardly do it justice.

SNAKES!

In most areas, the real zoo animals were asleep, but there were plenty of lit animals near where they were to know what animals belonged where! 

DAVE & KIM

ME & BRYCE

On Tuesday I had every intention to get a run in with the nice weather (despite my knees), but I was so exhausted I took the morning to sleep in. Unfortunately, Bryce was called into work again, but it gave me a chance to start getting my things together for the trip home and snack on the greatest of great chocolate cupcakes his Mom made me for my birthday (THANKS KIM)!!!!

My flights weren't too bad, but not quite the breeze I had coming in. In the first few minutes at my gate, I had a number of ferocious sneezes, leaving my face leaking like one of those kleenex ads! My eyes were crying, my nose was running- and looking around, I knew no one was happy that I would be on their plane. After getting in on the courtesy checked-baggage, I went for Wendy's and some NyQuil (mind you, it was noon). I slept through the first flight with out a problem. Ran with my first seatmate and the two guys behind me to the next flight out of Denver.. And just as I was expecting to get some sleep on the second flight, I had an infant and her parents next to me. Instead, I tried my hardest to stay awake. I worked on editing some photos and the first half of this blog! Ta-Da!!

MONKEY-ING AROUND AT THE ZOO... 

At this point in time, I don't have any more surprise trips (or planned) trips. I'll alert you the moment that fact changes! Until next time..
Sarah Marsh

Road trips, Turkey and Cheesecakes

In the last eleven days, I have put at least 1,530 miles on my car. I have stayed at nine different places. Traveled between two states. Taken dozens of highways, interstates, county roads, etc. Met one deer with my car. Played with one dog and five cats. Ran two miles. Played eighteen holes of discgolf. Celebrated 24 golden years. And thoroughly enjoyed the Thanksgiving holiday.

UWSP SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

It all began when I went to Stevens Point, WI to see the lovely ladies I lived with in London, see the University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point Symphony Orchestra and a dual student recital (clarinet and bass). I had the chance to catch up with so many people from school, who knew all I needed to do was go to the University Center or Starbucks to see more than half of the people in Stevens Point?!

Most of Friday I spent wandering through the Dreyfus University Center, NRHH/RHA Office and the Noel Fine Arts Building. I was able to see a number of students, previous supervisors, professors and friends I've known or worked with in the last five-ish years. It was a great visit. I could not have planned it more perfectly. I was able to go out to dinner with my friend Annika and get more up to date with others before the Symphony Orchestra concert, where I was able to successfully surprise a number of friends in the music department.

On Saturday, I spent a number of hours in Starbucks seeing a number of friends and professors. In the afternoon, I went to a joint recital for a friend of mine who plays bass and his roommate who plays clarinet. After their recital finished, I headed back to Minneapolis for a board game party!

GOPHER WRESTLING

For only spending one night in Minneapolis, I spent the night at a friend's place. She and I woke early Sunday for the University of Minnesota's wrestling match that she had to work and I was able to do the live blogging for the dual again. We've practically got this down!! :) After the event finished, I stopped by my brother's and spent time with him and his roommates. When it was time, I drove to the airport to pick up my friend Gretchen and drive her home to Poplar, WI.

GRETCHEN & ME

Gretchen and I made the three hour drive without danger, singing Disney classics the entire way (of course). When we arrived in Poplar, Gretchen's family welcomed us with open arms and fed us generously!!!! In the morning, Gretchen taught me a bit of violin: E Tune and Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star. We have videos, but I'm not sure how well it will load. I'll keep you posted. After a hefty lunch combining all of Gretchen's favorite things, I drove back to Minneapolis making it just in time for Monday night volleyball.

After working all day Tuesday and Wednesday, I packed up the car and picked up my brother to drive to Fond du Lac, WI. Our plan was to spend the Thanksgiving holiday with our parents and our Chicago family. All though the drive is not typically eventful, we unfortunately had a bit of an event. A deer. North of Stevens Point, near Lake Knowlton. Thankfully, the deer was meerly standing in the middle of my lane and I graciously drove around it. Not-so-thankfully, as I passed the deer on the right shoulder (and he {and I know it was a he because of his abundant antlers} was facing left) he decided to turn 180º. Right into my car. The right rear 'flank' of my Ford Focus, now has two small dents. I cannot complain, because we could have totalled it. I am very grateful that it was only such a minor encounter.

ANDREW & ME BEFORE THE RACE

Andrew and I made it the rest of the way home with no incidents. We got home and to sleep sometime after 1am. And promptly woke by 6:30am to run two miles for the Turkey Trot (click on the link, Andrew and I are photo #52 on the finish line!). I know I told you I wasn't going to run, but one of my supervisors at work said, "If you think you can do it, why not try?" Andrew ran with me the entire way, as if he was my own personal coach. I picked up one of those compression knee bands made specifically for patellar tendinitis. It felt so great, I didn't have a single issue. About 3/4 through the two miles, I started having problems with my other knee instead- and the problems have yet to go away. I might have to go see someone about this soon.  Moral of the story, if you think you can do it, why not try? Andrew and I ran the two mile in 27 minutes (roughly). I had to start somewhere!! Next time it will be a 5k and officially timed. I cannot wait for my knee to recover so I can get back to running!

It turned out our Chicago family couldn't make it up to celebrate with us, so our Thanksgiving became a very quiet and low-key day. In the afternoon we went out and played 18 holes of frisbee disc golf. We enjoyed our 4pm dinner time and began a cribbage tournament with double elimination. On Friday, rather than going out and buying all sorts of unneeded, marked-down items, we stayed in, slept in, and baked. Two cheesecakes, peanut butter fudge, coconut raspberry cookies and something my brother picked out. We went to out to eat since we finished most all of our leftovers and then went to see Skyfall. GO SEE IT, that's all I'm going to say. :)

TOKEN TRIO!

After the movie and for all of Saturday, I spent (in various ways) celebrating my golden birthday. I was able to spend it with friends and family, both in Wisconsin and in Minnesota. Andrew and I drove back to Minneapolis just in time to begin celebrations with dinner, and friends, and drinks. I must say, I'm beginning to feel old, I hardly made it past midnight! And the music was too loud. What's wrong with me??

Anyway, now that I'm back in Minneapolis I am able to take a bit of a breather from all the running around I have done.

Until next time (in Phoenix)....
Sarah Marsh

Cooking experiments!!

Carrot Soup:
A few weeks ago, I had a TON of carrots (courtesy of Aaron & Megan). Not knowing what to do with ENORMOUS (offensive-looking {that's my Aunt's description ) carrots, I decided to make carrot soup. My Aunt and I also had a spaghetti squash to use, and we added it to the soup. Best I've ever made. Boom.

I based the recipe on one I got from one of my brother's roommates, Kristin. Cut up onions, let them cook until transparent, add water, butter, flavors, etc... Then put the carrots in and hold it on high heat, and covered until they're soft. We used the totally awesome Emerson Stick (I call it a puree blender stick of magic) to get it into soup form. This is completely and entirely not accurate, but I do not have the recipe handy that we used, nor do I have the memory of this (as it was almost two weeks ago now.. or more), sorry!! We also added spaghetti squash!! Because we had some and needed to use it!


Parmesan chicken and mashed potatoes:
I have a 'before' picture which I will include, but I forgot to take an 'after' picture because I was so hungry. I should also note, I went to the store looking for these ingredients with no idea of what was called for (cooking fail).  Needless to say, I did not properly make either dishes; though they were decent tries.

As for the potatoes? Four is too many for one person. Three garlic pieces is too many for four potatoes. Please add more herbs and spices than what (none) I did.

I didn't take another picture even for the leftovers, because it didn't look good as leftovers. :(


Apple and Cranberry stuffed Pork Roast and Puppy Chow:
I wanted to give something back to my Aunt and Uncle who have been putting me up in the Twin Cities for next-to-nothing. They were both having a busy/preoccupied Sunday, so I offered, with help from my friend Jenni, to make them a surprise dinner. Little did they know what they were about to be in for...

My Aunt is gluten-free and dairy-free, so naturally I went to Pinterest to find a solution. Apple and cranberry stuffed pork roast was my final decision. The puppy chow became more of my own personal craving (too good to resist), and we ended up throwing in steamed broccoli for a side. YUM.

Best decision ever. If you click the link above, you'll have the recipe. It. was. fantastic. Even as left overs!! Jenni and I followed the recipe (almost) word-for-word. Our biggest difference was we had more meat than it asked for, but not by much. We also needed some cooking assistance from my Uncle for cutting the meat. Double butterflying your pork roast is actually INCREDIBLY difficult. Don't judge.

If your mouth is watering, it is because these pictures are only doing partial-justice. Please, try this yourself. It is, hands down, the best meal I've ever made. HUGE CREDIT GOES TO JENNI. She is a spice master.

As we waited for the pork roast to cook, we indulged in the puppy chow creation and eating. Best. Life. Choices.


Until next time on Cooke's Cooking. :)
Sarah Marsh

Run, Sarah, Run!

In the time that I have moved to Minneapolis (can you believe it has been 7.5 weeks?), I told you I was making a large goal for myself: To run a 5k on or before Thanksgiving. Considering I have not updated information regarding my runs, distances or other various work outs, I have a few things to share first  before I give some news.

I have been running in collaboration with the iPod Touch Application, Couch to 5K (C25K). I have logged about seven runs, which does not sound like a lot, but I am extremely confident in my abilities. Every time I decide to get out there and run, it feels easier and easier. I occasionally take runs with my brother (who is a self-acclaimed runner with about a dozen marathons under his belt), which makes me feel like a professional running next to him. He is just as encouraging as the pre-run me, and doesn't mind slowing pace or walking an interval with me to help out. *Get a running buddy.

As for other workouts, I have been doing some Pinterest inspired work outs including no-gym options since I do not have a membership anywhere in Minneapolis. Sit ups, planks, jumping jacks, etc. I'm doing my best to get in a work out before bed and something small between waking up and a shower. My newest additions to fuel my becoming-addiction have been my initial purchase of winter-wear running tights. They are cold gear from UnderArmor. Believe you me, my legs were not cold; my upper body was. Other items that I cannot wait to use include Craft winter-wear glove/mittens to keep wind and cold out, as well as a Craft pink hat with an extra band layer to protect not just your head from cold, but your ears, too. The hat and mitten/gloves were given to me by my cousins, April and Tom, and I could not be more thankful. Unfortunately with the news to come, I have not had the opportunity to use them yet. I will let you know when I do.

Moving on to the update and news, that isn't the best to hear, I have found I have Patellar Tendinitis in my left knee and horrific pains in my right knee. What am I doing about it? Taking a week (or so) off of running, getting a patellar compression band for my knee, and a supportive knee brace for my right knee. Yikes. This isn't good. My right knee, I cannot exactly determine what is wrong, but I injured it pretty sourly in volleyball two weeks ago and things just haven't been right. I heat in the morning and ice in the evening, trying to figure that anything can help from here..

Unfortunately, I'm going to have to postpone my planned 5k Thanksgiving Turkey Trot due to my injuries. My brother suggested the Santa run in December. Apparently you get a santa suit and everyone runs in one! Crazy. I bet kids are terrified over which one is the real one. Although, I'm sure it's warmer than anything else to run in during the month of December!! In the meantime, I'm focusing on leg-strengthening workouts and other ways to stay fit before the holidays strike and the cold becomes my run-limiting factor.


I hope I have better news to tell you about regarding running in the future!!
Until next time,
Sarah Marsh

To Give Thanks (ongoing through November)

I saw someone's status on Facebook and decided this would make a fantastic on-going blog post. 

What are you thankful for today? 

I am participating in the 30 days of thankfulness challenge - you should too! Find one thing each day that you are thankful for and write it down where you can see it. By the end of the month you will be amazed at what you will find!

November 1: I am thankful for having positive and encouraging people in my life. They are incredibly important and probably do not get recognized enough. This particular instance is a shout out to Chris, you made me feel like a rock star today! 

November 2: I am thankful for those who surround me in life for helping me achieve where I am today: I have a college education, a job in my field and a roof over my head. Thank you for helping me get here.

November 3: I am thankful for laughter. If there was no laughter in this world, we would all be more dimly lit. Laughter brings happiness, warmth, and a glow to every face. (Thanks to Jenni and Adrian for tonight's laughs.)

November 4: I am thankful for my friends who relentlessly support and provide peace to me in every way possible. Even when I don't know I need it. <3 

November 5: I am thankful for detergent... for getting the tough cat puke out of my belongings when it shouldn't be in there to begin with. (Petty. But honest.)

November 6: I am thankful for having a job. Although it is parttime, there are many in this world with much less. 

November 7: I am thankful for smiling faces!! Without them, the world would be dark and grey! 

November 8: I am thankful for my Aunt and Uncle for providing me with a place to stay and always making me feel welcome in their home. 

November 9: I am thankful for being healthier than I think I am. I missed the bus, waited for another, that one broke down, I took the next one and got to work only a little late. After work, I waited for the bus, turns out it didn't get me where I needed to be so I changed for another, missed that one, waited for another, that one didn't stop. So I walked the 2.5 miles- just because it was nice and felt good. I only recognized the milage after calculating it online. :) 

November 10: I am thankful for great friends who go out of their way to improve your life. (Thanks Charlie.) He invited me over to overview interview questions for another part time job I have an interview for. Best. Ever. 

November 11: Similar to many across the nation today, I am thankful for our Veterans. Without these confident and strong human beings, our world would be vastly different. Thank you-- endlessly, thank you.

November 12: I am thankful for the small reminders of the changing seasons. Just a it was warming up in Minneapolis, yesterday was brutally cold with snow. As much as I dislike winter, I love snow. I had to celebrate it. 

November 13: I am thankful for music. Without it, I do not know what I would be doing with my life. I would have no passion without music. 

November 14: I am thankful for my new pair of winter running tights. Recently they have been the only thing keeping me from freezing at night with no heat in my room!! Yikes!!! 

November 15: I am thankful for the invention and follow through of vehicles, one wheeled, two wheeled, three wheeled, four, etc. Public transportation and the working concept of personal cars. I would have to walk very, very far in very, very cold if it were not for public transportation. :) 
      *This is very first-world of me. And I apologize, but I am trying to find one thing in everyday that helped me make what I did that day possible. Make sense? Hope so. 

November 16: I am thankful for the fantastic people I work with at the Orchestra. They each make my time at work go by so fast, with so many great times.  

November 17: I am thankful for my parents. When terror strikes, they come to aid in the quickest of quick time and seemingly without question. I would be thoroughly struggling if I didn't have them. 

November 18: I am thankful for my friends. This weekend was full of friends: old friends, new friends, best friends, more friends. Having them in my life makes me the happiest person of all. 

November 19: I am thankful for music. Music is what makes the world go round (And today I'm learning Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star on violin from my totally awesome bff Gretchen, in the middle of the northwoods of Wisconsin). Future goal: get one hour of bass trombone playing in, every week from here on out!! 

November 20: I am thankful for my siblings. Without them, there would be no way in this world that I would be who I am today. They help shape and mold me, offer loads of opportunities for happiness and beautiful memories. 

November 21: I am thankful for my senses. Without touch, scent, sight, taste and hearing. Tonight, getting near to midnight, I saw a buck standing in the middle of the highway. Without my sense of sight and quick reaction time, I don't want to imagine what my car would have looked like. Instead I swerved, and of course the buck changed his mind and came back at my car. I now have two dents. Pictures to come later.. 

November 22: Thankful hardly describes the amount of happiness that family, food, laughter and old stories bring together. I am ever so thankful for absolutely everything I have been provided in life. Family that loves, food that fills hunger, jobs that earn money, friends and laughter to aid in the greatest life I could ever ask for.  HAPPY THANKSGIVING!  

November 23: Today I am thankful for the one and only 007... I went to see Skyfall today and had my socks rocked!! 

November 24:: Today I am thankful for my parents, because without the two of them I would not be here today. <3 

November 25: I am thankful for animals in the world. Some provide fear, others warmth and healing. Spending time with animals that help soothe and relax you can always help with day-to-day stressors. I stayed between two friend's places today, one with a cat, the other with a dog. You immediately forget anything bad when there are puppies and kitties to play with! 

November 26: I am thankful for the air we breathe, oxygen. Without being entirely science-specific (and if you know me, you know I am not), it does not matter when we are cold, warm, comfortable, or uncomfortable; breathing means we are alive. Nothing feels more like breathing for life than stepping into the 10º F cold and having the air in your lungs struck with a lightning bolt of frost. We are alive. 

November 27: I am thankful for great food, friends laughter and last but not least... puppy chow. YUM!

November 28: I am thankful for work friends turning into fantastic friends through food, snacks and BOARD GAMESSSSSS!! Yay for APPLES to APPLES!! 

November 29: I am thankful for diversity. Without the recognition that others are different, we would never have the opportunities to grow and learn about others, other cultures and what that means/how it effects us individually. Some friends of mine put together this video. Please watch it, share it, tell your friends. Call your mom, tell all of facebook-- call an old friend, tell them it reminded them of you. Make new friends. Show it to the world. Because the world deserves to see, that standing up and having one voice can bring the love.     http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=33jAzRHCQds   I hope you enjoy it. 

November 30: I am ever thankful for all the various ways to communicate. I thoroughly enjoy being able to speak to friends on the other side of the world and keep in contact.. it's cheaper than stamps! And I sure do love to write letters all the same. Skype, Facebook, Twitter, Blogs, Videos, Email, Mobiles, Tumblr, you name it, the list goes on and on. And with that... go ahead and continue my blog. Need more information? Questions answered? Comment and I'll get back to you. 

Until next November... 
Sarah

A Wisconsin Weekend

Your next installment of what you've missed out on-- or that I've missed out on updating you on...

Last week I worked Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday and left to drive to Fond du Lac, WI (about a 5.5 hour drive) after work Thursday. I planned with a few people to meet me at Marvin's in Stevens Point for a late dinner and an excuse to stop for more than just gas. I ended up spending more time than expected (of course)- I plan on a hour or two tops! Oops.. Needless to say, I didn't get home until almost 3am.

On Friday, I ran a few errands around town, hand lunch with my mom and spruced up my car a bit. All were small things but necessary. By dinner time, I was in communication with a few friends from high school about finding a haunted house to go through. When it came down to it, there was either cost, driving distance or temperature to be concerned about and unfortunately it didn't end up happening. Instead, a few of us went to see Sinister. I don't entirely recommend it, unless you're doing a marathon of scary movies and are not afraid of the dark!!

MARIE AND MARGO

ERIN AND ME!

While back in Wisconsin, I did make a day trip down to Madison to see a dear friend, Erin, who has recently moved down there for a job. After going for burgers and milkshakes at Ella's Deli (the one with the carousel), we met our other fantastic friends, Marie and Margo for fun times at the Henry Vilas Zoo! *Fun fact: Marie and Margo have this handy dandy site where they share their latest and greatest awkward adventures.

MARGO, ERIN AND MARIE

ERIN, ME AND MARGO

Check it out!  While we were at the zoo, there were a large number of face-in-hole photo opportunities. I cannot entirely speak for the others, but I must say, this was probably the best zoo time I've had in close to 12-14 years. I LOVE ZOOS! I've included a few of my favorite photos, the rest you can find on Facebook!



My intentions for going to my parent's house this particular weekend was to see some friends of mine.. specifically Bryce -who flew in from Arizona, and Brit & Steve -Bryce's sister and brother-in-law who have a two week old!! :) Bryce and his parents came into town to see the new baby-- and I must say. Dawson is the most adorable infant I have ever laid eyes on!! While getting to hang out with these folks, I got to catch up with friends from high school Steven, Andrew and Matt on the bowling lanes!

On Sunday, I left around late morning to head back to the cities to see a friend from university. She goes to school in Southern Illinois but was up in Minneapolis for a couple nights to support her family. I was fortunate enough to get to spend the entire evening with Gretchen and her family!

And just you wait to hear about my weekend this weekend! An apartment, a house- maybe two, four cats, and another cooking special.
Until next time,
Sarah Marsh

Aussie, Sports and fun!!

My life has been crazy busy recently and this weekend I am planning on playing catch up on all of it!! OFTA! I cannot tell how long this post will be or how many posts I may be creating. Either way, you will have the opportunity to gather such information shortly.

I left off with my weekend trip to my parent's house when we were on the radio (which is such a cool thing. Seriously.)!! The return trip home from my parent's house included the briefest of brief stops in Madison to pick up my friend Australian friend, Fred, who I met in London this summer. Fred was touring through the United States and Canada on his way home to Australia. I had my friend Jenni in the car with me too, which made our travels a downright road trip! We stopped along the way at Culver's for Fred's first experience. This became an experience for him with frozen custard AND fried cheese curds. Don't know what I'm talking about? Please don't google it. Fly to Wisconsin and discover it for yourself! When we got into the Twin Cities, I dropped off Fred and Jenni but we each suggested things to do or attend later in the week.

On Thursday, Fred organized a Target Thursday at the Walker Art Center. It ended up being Fred, his friend Max he was staying with, Jenni, myself and two others from our London summer excursion- Adrian and Shannon. We think we got through a good number of the exhibits. Towards the end though we split into two groups, one was to go out in Dinkytown and the other was to go have ice cream at Sebastian Joe's a few blocks away. It was a fantastic time for people to get together and for those of us who traveled abroad to reconnect. After all, it has been almost three months!! We had such a fun time- I hope we do it again soon!! This picture is of a quote by Albert Einstein. For those of you who may have trouble reading it: "The fairest thing we can experience is the mysterious. It is the fundamental emotion which stands at the cradle of true art and true science."


We had a similar get together on Friday for dinner, Fred, Max, Shannon and I had dinner at Brit's Pub in downtown Minneapolis. This pub is becoming one of my favorite places in Minneapolis. It is close to work and everything reminds me of last summer. I can not complain! We met after work (for most of us) and enjoyed an evening full of traditional british meals including fish & chips and guinness beef stew, stories, and laughter!! Towards the end of dinner, Fred decided he wanted to go outback and see the lawn bowling set up. Unfortunately they were no longer holding sport because of the change in weather. This did not stop Fred. He walked outside to check it out, only to find himself locked out until he could get someone's attention to let him back in. After dinner, the group headed to Max's house for a bit of hot tubbing but I was downright exhausted and went home.

To finish of my weekend, I babysat for my cousin's three kids on Saturday. This is always a fantastic time-- we had pizza and then played music, Olympic in-house games, told stories and shared in enormous amounts of laughter. On Sunday, I
met a girl from high school for breakfast at Victor's. It was Jenni, Kate and Rachel. Rachel was visiting from Wisconsin for the University of Minnesota's homecoming, Kate works with Gopher Sports and Jenni works with an after school kids program... it is fascinating to think of how incredible each of my friends are doing/what they are doing since high school. We've each gone in different directions, grown and learned, yet we stay grounded and connected with each other. I love it. After breakfast, Kate had to work a soccer match, Jenni had other plans, but Rachel and I headed over to watch the soccer match. Minnesota ended up winning, of course! Kate showed Rachel and I the press box before heading our separate ways.

Kate suggested there was this Monday night volleyball group that she and a group of friends from school play with at a community center and told me to join in on the fun. It has been three weeks now and I look SO forward to Mondays. It has been such a blast!! The physical activity is everything I have been needing. Speaking of activity-- I realize I have not filled you in on my running updates! I have been continuing my training to run a 5K on Thanksgiving (11/22/2012) and have (sadly) put in two more runs since my last update! The weather turned and I did not have proper running attire for a few weeks. I am slowly picking up my pace and finding successes! I'll tell you more about it after my next run!

KATE (BABY DAVID, DAVID AND ME! 

Through the next week, I worked and anxiously anticipated the weekend! I had a smorgasbord of family coming in from California, Arizona, New Mexico, Wisconsin, and near by Minneapolis for a baby shower! It was a great time, a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with cousins, Aunts and Uncles that I haven't seen in years! We had a Friday lunch at Brit's Pub, Saturday dinner night at a cousin's, and ultimately the baby shower in Elk River, Minneapolis. It was such a wonderful time with everyone included. Now we just have to wait until December for baby David to come along!!  <3

There are more updates to come!!
Until next time,
Sarah Marsh

Twins, Gophers and Radio Shows, Oh My!

Since settling into Minneapolis, I've made a few small adventures! Recent events include a Twins baseball game, a Minnesota Gopher women's volleyball game, and a trip back to Fond du Lac, WI to see family, friends, and godparents. Here are just a few more recent adventures to life in Minneapolis. Adjusting and visitng, being visited and having a great time.

For the Twins game, it was a last minute surprise to be sure! I received a phone call from my Aunt, when I was about to step on the bus to go home, asking if I would like to be her fourth for the Twins vs. New York Yankees game that night! I absolutely agreed!! I spent another hour downtown until we headed to the game, but really there was so much to see. I took a stroll through downtown and spent some quality time in Loring Park. I tried to sit and enjoy the park but these pesky little begging squirrels ruined it. All I did was sit on a bench. I was surrounded by a
half-dozen squirrels! All sitting and begging for food. Just as I tried to ignore their little peevish stares, I felt something on my foot. Naturally I kicked out my foot. Two squirrels ran out from under the bench. I was terrified, not to mention disgusted! I continued on to another bench. And then another. And another. It took me nearly six benches to find some solidarity in the park. Talk about environment adaptation, right? It was about another half hour until I was to meet with my Aunt and her two friends to head to the game. We lived up to all stereotype and expectation of the ball game. We picked up Minnesota beers and concession foods- not to mention we shouted and cheered the entire game. Sometimes for the wrong team. To be honest, it was quite difficult to tell one jersey from another from where we were sitting! One of my Aunt's friends wasn't familiar with the sport; being from England, she was more familiar with rounders. I got to sit next to her and explain the game. Little did I realize, I know the rules- most of them any way!

During the following weekend my friend Ashley came to visit! Ashley and I first met when I was her Community Advisor (think of it as a RA or Housefellow) at the University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point. After a semester she was hired on to our staff and we worked together for the next year and a half. Throughout those two years and the continuing two, we shared loads of friendship perks and played intramural volleyball together. Ashley works in Minnesota and we found that we are within a
 two hour drive from each other! Ashley came in on Saturday afternoon and I drove her downtown to see the Art Festival my Aunt and Uncle's church put on. We walked across the bridge leading to the Walker Art Center Sculpture Garden and check out a number of the sculptures. Afterwards, we came back to the house and helped prepare dinner with my Aunt and Uncle. Once we finished dinner, we headed over to the University of Minnesota campus to see the women's volleyball team (Gophers) play against Penn State. Unfortunately we (Minnesota) lost, but it was still a great game to watch! We had planned that after game, we would head downtown and check out the dueling piano bar, Shout House! It worked out perfectly for timing because a friend of mine from high school actually works there, too! We stayed longer than we probably should have, but it was such a great environment to stay and listen to! I must go back. Perhaps for my birthday...

The following weekend I drove home with my friend Jenni- for company and to deliver her to her parents. They were upset for not getting to see her since early last spring. We stopped briefly in Stevens Point for a quick hair cut from the ever-so-lovely-and-talented Miss Mona!! We stayed around for less than an hour before we picked up some secondary snacks, caffeine and gasoline and headed on to Fond du Lac. I was headed to my parent's house to see my godfather who was visiting from North Carolina. We had plans to go to Madison on Saturday and watch the live show of Michael Feldman's radio show, Whad'ya Know? (Not much, you?). I went when I was in high school but this time was even better. When you arrive at the show, they provide a notecard for you to write your name, occupation, hometown and something interesting- it could be about yourself, a fact, a joke, you name it! I wrote down almost exactly what I did the last time I saw it. But this time, I got to be on the radio!! My card read as follows: "I am an August 2012 graduate with a job in my field. I can say the alphabet faster than anyone here. I dare you to try." If you click the link I included above, you can listen to the recording of the 6 Oct, 2012 show. I'm about 20-25 minutes in, with my rendition of the alphabet backwards. Which, I do dare you to try. I have never found anyone who can do it quite as fast!

I am sure you haven't been dying for updates from me, but I certainly feel like I have been slacking. My most sincere apologies. I'll get right back to work here! I have more to share but not enough battery to type it tonight!

Enjoy the radio show!
Sarah Marsh