Dancing on tables..at the office

We were seriously told by a partner in Scott's firm to DANCE!!! And that's exactly what we did...

You can dress me up...

Jen and Matt treated us to dinner at the Union League and the Orpheus Club holiday concert last week. This club is the oldest men's singing group of it's kind in the United States. It was a lot of fun to get dressed up, have some drinks and a nice meal, and celebrate the holidays with friends. The weekend was filled with more holiday celebrations--from Scott's office party to Gay Bingo to a White Elephant Party with our neighbors. Here are the pics from last week, I'll post this week's pics when I get them from other people.

Cheers!

Pics...

All grown up.

Yoga has made me freakishly strong.

Storm King

Man of the people. Seriously, everyone LOVED Batman.

Go Phillies!

Oops. It's been a while...

Did I miss November? Seriously, I am the world's worst blogger. Not that I have a real established readership or anything (other than my mom, and I appreciate your support). Anyway, November was good. For that matter, so was October.

Here's a photo from the pre-prom gathering before Ingrid Michaelson's show in Philly. More photos to come from our visit to Gainesville in October, the Phillies celebration, my 'man of the people', our anniversary trip to the Hudson Valley, and Thanksgiving in Chatham. Wow. It's been a while. Good times.

Enjoy!

Mary

Proud to be an American

What a historic day! I am thrilled about the election of Barack Obama and cannot even begin to describe how I felt when the announcement was made. Surrounded by friends and fellow supporters, I was overcome with joy. The room erupted in cheer, hugs, and high fives and there was a sense of relief and hope that positive change is to come. I have high hopes that the world's faith in America will be restored and we can begin to close the gap between individuals of all races and cultures.

When the Obama family came onto the stage for the acceptance speech I couldn't help but to think of my African-American friends and colleagues. My boss (who happens to be African-American) said this morning how important it was for her children to experience the moment. She said it was important for her son in particular to see this--to have another role model besides a sports figure. On my way to work I met a man who said that he hasn't experienced this much love since Martin Luther King, Jr marched on Washington. It wasn't until I enrolled in my master's program that I understood the effects of racism (both individual and institutional). Whether you understand the concept or buy into or not, you must recognize that the significance of this event speaks volumes to people who have felt left out or ignored for many years. As one of my colleagues said this morning--this is the Lord's work. Amen!

I voted for Obama, not because of his race but because of where he stands on issues of foreign policy and the middle class. He was the best candidate for me and I know that I am in the minority in my family. I hope that my loved ones who are disappointed by this election will look toward the future with an open mind. We must come together as a nation and it starts at home.

Well, I suppose I should get back to work. Thanks for listening!

(Photo courtesy of AP/ J.C Hong)

Wait, it's October??

September flew by and I can't believe it happened without a blog post. Fall in Philly is wonderful...the students are back at Temple, the leaves are changing, and we get to spend the weekends watching football and hanging out with friends. Without going into a lot of detail, the fall has also had its disappointments. As one of my favorite priests, John Fritschner, says, it's in those times of transition that we see God. It's true, when I doubt I always grow stronger in my faith. Recently I joined a home group/bible study at my church and I'm thrilled to get to know some amazing women while growing closer to God. They have already helped to challenge and support me in the way I need it most.

God provides us blessings just when we need it. My professional life is right where I want it and Scott was recently promoted to Associate at his firm. He's worked really hard to get here and I could not be more proud. Check out his sexy photo!http://www.theolinstudio.com/#/profile/people

I'm hopeful that October will bless us with good times, thoughtful moments, and opportunities to see the divine in our daily work.

Here's some photos from Jay and Michelle's visit a couple weeks ago. Enjoy!

I scream You scream...

WE ALL SCREAM FOR ICE CREAM! Mmmmmmm...Bassett's is the best.