ONE MONTH ANNIVERSARY!

Hello one, hello all.

Today I celebrated my one-month anniversary with Manhattan and West 81st Street. I honestly still find it hard to believe I'm here. It makes me anxious to come back out for good in May. I appreciate all of the love and encouragement from friends and family. I am really lucky to have such a dedicated support system!

I made a friend today! (Holla!!) I was in Barnes and Noble up in the Cafe, just reading and chatting on the phone with dad, mom, and then Dave. I had just gotten off the phone with Dave when this guy next to me said, "You are not from here." I said, "No, why?" He said, "You're too happy. I saw you tapping your pen and humming and it was more entertaining that what was on my iPod." It was beyond random, but he was cool. He said, "I don't mean to be a creeper but you have this energy that is just radiating." I was glad to hear that, because I have been having some down days and finally coming back to the light so this was very reassuring to me! He asked where I was from and I told him to guess. He said, "The Midwest." I said, "Yes, well, Utah." He laughed and said, "You're not going to believe this! I was born in Provo, my family are Mormons!" We were both so freaked out by the coincidence. It was fun to meet someone spontaneously (well, someone who wasn't asking for spare change, anyway). We talked for a while - he's a surgeon here in the city living on Riverside Drive. I said "Oh I bet that's beautiful" and he asked if I had been to Pier 69, and I hadn't yet, so we walked a few blocks over there. It was a GORGEOUS day and I was kicking myself for not having my camera. I had just planned to read at B&N all afternoon/evening, not to make a friend and go adventuring. I promise to go back soon and take photos to post. There is a little restaurant, sailboats, kayaks, and you can see the George Washington Bridge and (of course) Jersey. It was great. His roommate is actually goes to the church in Lincoln Center, and I think I've met him. Small world.

It was an extremely bizarre and adventurous day for me, so I'm going to hit the hay early and get some rest for the week ahead. Tomorrow our Seminar is being "taught" by the leading actor in the Norman Conquests - the trilogy play I've been seeing! I can't wait to hear what he has to say.

Have a joyful, peaceful, successful week, won't you?

LOVE TO ALL!