Natalie Walker
LIFE.TRAVEL.PHOTOGRAPHY.FOOD.FASHION.MUSIC.BOOKS.
Thursday, 26 May 2011
Buon Giorno?
Ciao from Italy! Considering this is my first real post in many months, I do have so recapping to do. After a killer last semester in college, unfortunately graduation day came and went (May 14). I am now officially a Baylor University alumni... or is it alumnus? Anyways, you would not believe what is over my right shoulder right now. (See below...)
I told you you wouldn't believe me! But it's even more breathtaking in person. After 2 1/2 crazy days in Rome, I am expecting a few relaxing days here in Positano. Rome was full of fascinating history and rich culture with lots, and lots of walking. We visited the Pantheon, Vatican, St. Peter's Basilica, the Roman Forum and Paletine Hill. Everything was fascinating. I am thankful to have visited these places at the age I am because I know I appreciated every moment. History and art I have studied and seen over my entire education I was able to witness and observe right in front of me. Such a blessing and pleasure. I have yet to experience a bad meal or glass of wine. I will soon post pictures and more extensive trip details. Ciao!
Wednesday, 4 May 2011
Osama Bin Laden and the Christian Response
I love this and couldn't agree more.
SOURCE:
http://www.reddit.com/r/Christianity/comments/h2mzb/tragedy_of_tragedies_osama_bin_laden_and_the/
SOURCE:
http://www.reddit.com/r/Christianity/comments/h2mzb/tragedy_of_tragedies_osama_bin_laden_and_the/
Monday, 3 January 2011
New Books, New Beginnings
Happy 2011!
My first book purchase of 2011- Water For Elephants. I am really interested in the book so far and I've only made it through Chapter 1 (I bought the book yesterday). I'll post my thoughts every now and then and maybe do a review when I finish.
I also read Into The Wild over the break and had mixed emotions about the book. Chris McCandless, the young man who drops off the earth from his family, friends and everything secure, embarks on a great adventure "into the wild." I believe his intentions are admirable yet selfish and I think there's a whole other piece to the puzzle not mentioned in the book. I'd love to have a conversation with Chris McCandless, but I don't think he'd like a person like me. He despises all that is worldly and I, unfortunately, can say there are lots of worldly things I like. For example... Anthropologie, shoes, massages, and delicious elaborate dinners and cocktails. However, I do love the outdoors and an occasional "adventure." I'm not sure I've been on an "real" adventure in Mr. McCandless's eyes. One day I hope to get away like Chris, but I'd like to be with my family or a friend. I don't mind being alone, but it's not something I'd prefer over company. My life would feel empty and meaningless without people to share it with. McCandless does, through quotes and letters, open your eyes to the emptiness and false security in material things and a secure future. McCandless was so radically against those things that he judged and belittled people who did value those things even the least bit. Materials and a secure future are only negative things when people place their personal value, confidence and security in them.
The position that Chris's family and friends endured for years is a miserable feeling and Chris was selfish to ignore the obvious fact that his disappearance would cause lots of hurt and confusion. The author, Jon Krakauer, does a decent job of portraying Chris from all different perspectives. Some people called McCandless a narcissist and some, a hero. Personally I gathered that Krakauer greatly admired McCandless for both his adventure and his spirit. I have mixed feeling towards him.
Christmas break was filled with much-needed R & R, friends, family and FOOD. Blogging to come about the break's activities- Happy 2011! It's going to be a great year!
My first book purchase of 2011- Water For Elephants. I am really interested in the book so far and I've only made it through Chapter 1 (I bought the book yesterday). I'll post my thoughts every now and then and maybe do a review when I finish.
I also read Into The Wild over the break and had mixed emotions about the book. Chris McCandless, the young man who drops off the earth from his family, friends and everything secure, embarks on a great adventure "into the wild." I believe his intentions are admirable yet selfish and I think there's a whole other piece to the puzzle not mentioned in the book. I'd love to have a conversation with Chris McCandless, but I don't think he'd like a person like me. He despises all that is worldly and I, unfortunately, can say there are lots of worldly things I like. For example... Anthropologie, shoes, massages, and delicious elaborate dinners and cocktails. However, I do love the outdoors and an occasional "adventure." I'm not sure I've been on an "real" adventure in Mr. McCandless's eyes. One day I hope to get away like Chris, but I'd like to be with my family or a friend. I don't mind being alone, but it's not something I'd prefer over company. My life would feel empty and meaningless without people to share it with. McCandless does, through quotes and letters, open your eyes to the emptiness and false security in material things and a secure future. McCandless was so radically against those things that he judged and belittled people who did value those things even the least bit. Materials and a secure future are only negative things when people place their personal value, confidence and security in them.
The position that Chris's family and friends endured for years is a miserable feeling and Chris was selfish to ignore the obvious fact that his disappearance would cause lots of hurt and confusion. The author, Jon Krakauer, does a decent job of portraying Chris from all different perspectives. Some people called McCandless a narcissist and some, a hero. Personally I gathered that Krakauer greatly admired McCandless for both his adventure and his spirit. I have mixed feeling towards him.
Christmas break was filled with much-needed R & R, friends, family and FOOD. Blogging to come about the break's activities- Happy 2011! It's going to be a great year!
Tuesday, 7 December 2010
Most Wonderful Time of the Year
Ah, the Christmas season! As I write this post I am sitting next to a best friend, sipping hot chocolate and watching Elf. Clearly, I'm not complaining. There's something magical about the Christmas season, even if you're not 4 years old or don't still believe in Santa Claus. I recently bought the Glee Christmas Album in attempt to cheer myself up after quietly sobbing in the stationary section at Target as I searched for a graduation card for Kristin. The album is incredible! The last song, O Holy Night, gives me chills. Maybe that's because O Holy Night is tied as my favorite Christmas song, but really, go buy it!!
Thanksgiving was a wonderful break from school and I was able to do some fun things with Austin friends and spend time with my family. Becca and I got really domestic and made some delicious dinners. She always teaches me the newest and most nutrient rich veggie foods, like quinoa.
Quinoa somethings that Becca made- so good! |
Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Cranberries |
Turkey and Spinach Shepherd's Pie |
Just before Thanksgiving break my roommates and I took our 3rd annual trip to Austin for our "roommate weekend" and for the Christmas Affair. Friday night we went to various places on 6th street but the highlight was for sure the Boom Boom Room. The BBR is exactly what it sounds like. Lots of bumping and grinding and perfect for anyone who wants to dance. We of course kept to ourselves but we did bust a move or two. The only thing that put a damper on my night was a snag in my brand new tights. Not to worry, returned them the next day for a new pair. Friday night before downtown we went to the Headliner's Club. The dinner was amazing and the company, even better!
That's all for now!
Merry Merry!
Thursday, 18 November 2010
Monday, 15 November 2010
Town Lake
This semester I am taking a photography class. I've always loved taking pictures, but I've never taken notice to the different techniques in photography. Our most recent assignment was to create a photo story. The photo story needs around 10 pictures with an attached story. Each photo is different and unique and should speak for the story. I chose to take pictures of one of my favorite places in Austin- the Town Lake Trail, recently renamed Lady Bird Lake. Here are my pictures for my assignment!
I got some strange looks as I snapped pictures of complete strangers... but I turned and walked quickly away before anyone could ask me what I was doing. This probably isn't the best idea considering it makes you look a lot sketchier than you really are. Oh well. I forgot to email myself one of my favorite pictures of Woode Wood. Woode Wood is a man who stands on a ledge looking over the trail and plays his guitar for passerby's. He is an interesting character and a bit creepy if you ask me. As I took photos of him he came down to talk to me and to show me his newest music video, "pretty girls." The video showed a wide variety of different girls looking into the camera whiping their hair to and fro or looking seductively into the camera. "These are girls around Austin I have met who said they'd be in my video!" Woode said. At this point I was genuinely freaked out. So I politely said thank you and kept walking at a faster pace. I'll post my Woode Wood picture later...
Friday, 12 November 2010
Howdy Doody
I'm not much for "Nashville" country music. I do love a few songs here or there, but mostly I favor Texas country! A few friends and I ate dinner the other night and watched the CMA's. There were various great performances and I do enjoy watching talented artists receive recognition. But come on country music industry, lets not forget out roots! Rascal Flats performed with bejeweled jeans and manicured fingers and Brad Paisley wore a skinny tie? I'm sorry, Who? What? When? Why? I was reminded of my appreciation for genuine COUNTRY. Which reminds me of my roommate, Alexis. Alexis isn't really all that country, she's actually from Michigan. But she went through a phase listening to the song "She's Country" for nearly 89 days straight. I know every word now! Anyways lets move on to the point of this post- Carrie Underwood was BEST DRESSED. She hosted the event so of course she changed about 4 or 5 times. I watched jealously as she presented awards, each dress more obsess-worthy than the next. I can't even pick a favorite! They were adorable...
So, Carrie, if you would please just send them in the mail. Thanks girl.
The first dress is edgy and sexy. The following two are definitely more feminine and classic. The last dress risked seeming 80's prom but I think the color really pulled it off.
Short and sweet post, but I couldn't resist sharing these! Love them.
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