NYC + LONDON

by Sara on March 30th, 2010

My sister Julie and her family spent the last little while living in London. So, of course Dick and I jumped the opportunity to go visit them. This was my second trip to London and Dick’s first. It did not disappoint either of us.

Because we happen to be fond of Manhattan, we decided to spend a day there on the way out.

It was a record short stop, but we managed to squeeze in breakfast at our favorite Ukrainian restaurant, Veselka and some shoes and book shopping in Soho.

Camper store in Soho. We left empty-handed, sadly. I was so tempted to buy a pair for our baby boy, but couldn’t justify spending that much. One day little guy… One day.

Boring picture. But I want to remember the luxury of International Business Class, which we had both on the way to and from London. One of the many perks of being married to Dick Baldwin.

We arrived at Julie & John’s flat early in the morning. After a few short hello’s, we dropped off our luggage and headed out for a double-decker tour bus ride. And in my head I couldn’t stop singing “and if a double-decker bus crashes into us… to die by your side is such a heavenly way to die.” But not aloud, because, well, Dick isn’t crazy about The Smiths (I know. Crazy.)

Dick is crazy about mapping out cities. And he’s good at it, too.

We caught up with Eleanor in her incredible London flat. Never did I think I’d purchase a Barbie in my life (I’ve never owned one myself); but, Eleanor really wanted one. So Julie had be bring one from the states. She couldn’t put it down our entire stay.

We planned our trip to overlap with my parent’s stay. They left a few days after we arrived. I was bummed to say goodbye. My dad beams in England. I haven’t seen him so giddy in years

I am utterly obsessed with Amelia. She is perfect.

View from Julie’s 3rd floor flat.

Saying goodbye to my parents outside Julie and John’s flat.

Julie, John and Eleanor at Leeds Castle.

DB and I at Leeds Castle.

Eleanor dressed appropriately for visiting a castle. Also fitting: Queen Eleanor used to live in this castle.

My favorite part about Leeds castle… Lady Baillie’s display of shoes. They reminded me of my Grandma Wanda Hall.

Sleepy girls.

We spent Saturday morning at the Columbia Road flower market.

Ryan Town is the coolest.

Brits are pretty awesome, too.

Here’s a portrait we saw of two very well-known brits. This portrait hangs at the National Portrait Gallery. We also saw an Irving Penn exhibit which was terrific.

Walking through Trafalgar Square.

I know it’s a total tourist trap, but I continue to love the London Eye. It’s so romantic and majestic. I insisted Dick come along with me for a lift.

Brief train stop in good ol’ Slough. If you see this picture and understand why I took it, awesome. If not, please go watch the original UK Office. You’re missing out.

Dick and I spent a day in Oxford. Wow. What an amazing place.

Yes, they filmed parts of the Harry Potter movies here in Oxford. That place is truly mind-blowing. We left feeling very jealous of the lucky students who are accepted to study there.

So, there you have it. Our fantastic trip to England. I should mention, Dick came home and missed it so much that he convinced his mom to head back out with him for another week-long visit. I was envious, but so glad he had the chance to fall in love with a new city and country.

Also, of course, massive thank you to the Martins. I wish I took pictures of their insanely awesome flat. Wow. Thanks again for letting us crash with you.

HOTEL MONACO

by Sara on March 29th, 2010

I’ve wanted to stay at the Hotel Monaco in Salt Lake City for years. Finally, the right opportunity presented itself. Know what made it even better? Max was allowed to come with us.

I think I should be in the hotel industry. That is, somebody should pay me to stay in luxurious hotel rooms and I’ll share my thoughts of the experience afterward. Wouldn’t that be great?

GOODBYE NASAL CONGESTION

by Sara on January 5th, 2010

This is me in March ‘09. Always congested and never could breathe clearly.

This is me in December ‘09, two months post septoplasty and rhinoplasty. Not only can I breathe and sleep soundly through the night, I also have a much more (dare I say) aesthetically pleasing nose. I am thrilled with the results. Contemplating septoplasty or rhinoplasty? Do it! I highly recommend it.

5 YEARS AGO…

by Sara on November 5th, 2009

October 15th marked the 5 year anniversary of my first date with the boy who gave me that ring.

I fell in love that night. So many times I wish I could go back and relive it (and the months that followed).

To celebrate the anniversary, we had dinner at the same restaurant (though different location, sadly). Bombay House – the best Indian food ever (Tandoor in New Haven is a close 2nd). On the ride there, Dick played DJ, surprising me with Colin Meloy’s Morrissey covers (some are much better than others) and on the way back, he surprised me by playing the new Rose Melberg album. Swoon!

The last 5 years have been the best; I’m still head over heels in love with my Dicky B.

(And, I still love the ring.)

AT LAST

by Sara on July 24th, 2009

I did it! Took my guys for a retro “staycation” at the Hotel Valley Ho. I’ve wanted to stay here since moving back to Arizona 3 years ago.

It did not disappoint.

Max was a little apprehensive in the beginning.

But after realizing the Ho is fond of furry friends, he was quickly at ease. (Yes, they provided the cute doggy bowl & food just for him.)

Dick belongs in the 1960s. Proof? His name. Apart from being one of the most feminist people I know (feminist, not feminine!), his era is the ’60s.

Spoiled. And looking good while at it.

I geek out over details. I would have totally designed this place if given the chance.

Dick’s favorite dessert: strawberry pie.
My vice: Fresca & Starburst.

Treats we enjoyed while re-watching the 1st season of the only show that seemed appropriate: Mad Men. 3rd season starts next month! I think it’s the best show out there.

Early mornings with no agenda are my favorite.

Planning a trip to Arizona? Stay at at the Valley Ho!

We’d reconsider the move if living in this place was an option. (Well, I guess it is an option. Just a very unaffordable one for us.)