Day 31: Not Your Average Peabody Duck

I switched my camera to black and white in an attempt to tell the the story of IceStorm 2010 a little bit differently on Day 3.  Instead of more ice-covered trees, I found a quiet little pond behind the Memphis Botanic Garden, where I met this little guy and several of his friends. Someone needs to tell him that the Peabody Ducks get to soak in a beautiful, indoor fountain all day, rather than a cold, icy pond.

Day 30: Ice Skating Anyone?

I was an utter recluse today, making only one venture outside for today's photos. I navigated the treacherous stairs, but made it only to the street corner before I decided to stop risking my balance (and life) on the ice and head back inside.  It was a pure ice rink!

Day 29: What's Wrong with these Pictures?

I'll tell you what's wrong.  I was supposed to fly out to warm, sunny Miami this morning and thanks to the "wintry  mix," my  airline cancelled all of its outbound flights.  Despite the change in plans, I was grateful for a day off from work.  Once the weather calmed down, I ventured out in the cold to capture Memphis in action on a "Snow Day."

Day 28: Are You Going Green?

Back at Bridges tonight for more volunteer work for the Junior League.  Tonight, we had the chance to teach students about environmental sustainability - local resources, indigenous plants, drip irrigation systems, indoor air filtration, etc. What a sight to see such young children motivated to make an impact on their planet!

Day 27: Nice Ride

Passed this guy on my way home from work so I had to double back for today’s picture.  He called out to me that the angels were from Italy and were meant to bring blessings to all who rode in the carriage.  Cheesy and lovely all at the same time!

Day 26: Silent Night

I know that most nights are anything but peaceful within the walls of the hospital, but from outside, all is quiet and calm. 

Day 25: Happy Early Birthday to Me...

Today I got an early birthday present... from the Memphis Police.  Yep, I got a speeding ticket... for going 42 in a 35.  (Seriously?!?)  And you guessed it - my court date is March 12.  How wonderful!  I'll always worried that something would land me at 201 Poplar on my birthday (i.e. excessive celebration), but I never imagined it would be a measly 7-miles-over speeding ticket.  Cheers to me!

Day 24: Lazy Sunday, Lazy River

Took advantage of a plans-free Sunday afternoon and the beautiful weather and took a stroll down to Tom Lee Park.  Despite the bright blue sky and puffy white clouds, the weather quickly turned stormy and luckily I made it back to my place before the rain.

Day 23: Showered with Presents

I was so, so happy to have the chance to celebrate my sweet friend Nicky's upcoming marriage at her bridal shower today. Nicky is one of my dearest friends from my time in Chicago and one of my favorite former co-workers.  Nicky and I bonded quickly as fellow Louisianians transplanted to the Windy City.  I'm so lucky that she has family and friends in the Memphis area who hosted today's shower so I was able to attend. Thanks to Melissa for hosting us in her lovely home.  Congratulations, Nicky and Nathan! 

Day 22: Playing with Fire

Literally...

Day 21: Three Amigos

Had the chance to bring 3 different friends together over dinner tonight at the Happy Mexican. I guess it's easy to bond over never-ending chips and salsa...

Day 20: Moment of Truth

Had lunch today with some of my married friends which naturally led to talk about setting single me up on a date. As we discussed “my type,” I couldn’t help but think back on all of my many crushes over the years…  If only I knew then what I know now…

Day 19: Goin' to the Chapel

Made it to campus a few minutes early tonight so I decided to swing by DeLaSalle Chapel on campus.  If I ever miss Sunday morning Mass, I can always count on CBU's late night service.  I love the very natural, humble-chic style of the chapel and the hippie praise music you can only hear at an on-campus service.

Day 18: We Have a Dream

I was grateful to have the day off from work today mostly because I had the great opportunity to participate in the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Youth Event at Bridges.  This event brought together 300 teenagers from all across the Memphis community to discuss racial justice and what they can do to be a part of the solution. What an amazing experience for these great students!  Inspired by the day, I had to stop by the Lorraine Motel on my way home to join my fellow Memphians in celebrating the life and legacy of such a great man.

Day 17: Blue Skies on Main Street

It was a beautiful Sunday morning for a quick stroll down Main Street and brunch at The Arcade (sweet potato pancakes - yum!) with friends, Josh and Ellen in town celebrating their 1 year anniversary (congrats guys!) and Lauren, a fellow LSU grad and Memphis transplant.  Days like this I love living near South Main.

Day 16: Another Person's Treasure

It's the 3rd weekend of the month which means it's time for the Memphis Flea Market. Every other month or so, I carry myself over to the fairgrounds in hope of some fabulous antique furniture, only to be disappointed by rows and rows of tube socks, cheap dog outfits, assorted rebel flag paraphernalia and creepy dolls. Sometimes, there's the occasional fun collectible or shabby chic home decor that make the trip worth it, but usually it's the temptation of the Pronto Pup stand that is the most inviting.

Day 15: Death by Raffle Tickets

Most of my day today was spent volunteering for the annual Country Cares Seminar, including spending some quality time with country artist Darryl Worley and more than 800 of his closest DJ friends.  The night was capped off with a little bit of raffle ticket chaos during the evening festivities. Thank God for great co-workers to help you power through.

Day 14: Signature or Obsession?

After a busy week, tonight was definitely a night to stay at home so I turned to my fleur-de-lis collection for today's inspiration.  Here's a few of too many...

Day 13: Good Company

So happy to have my dear friend Ashley from Charlotte over tonight.  Great conversation, sweet wine and slice-and-bake chocolate chip cookies... a simple recipe for a fun night with one of my favorite Judies.

Day 12: Back to School

Night class for my Master's program is back in session, which called for a late afternoon Starbucks run. Skinny Vanilla Latte, please!  After class, I took the scenic route through campus to capture some of CBU's best spots.

Day 11: Is It Spring Yet?

Thanks to the $5 florals from Wal-Mart, it is in my apartment. :)

Day 10: Long Live the King

In honor of the King's 75th birthday weekend, I (and thousands of Elvis fans) made a quick pilgrimage to Graceland.  Who would have known I would have found the answer to world peace while there... and in puffy paint no less...