Friday, April 6, 2007

Five Best

Simple Pleasures


Alex Taylor

Alex Taylor, the executive director of Crisis Hotline, has lived in the Wood River Valley for 13 years. Here are Five Simple Pleasures that bring her joy:

1. Sharing Love: When I visit the cats at the Animal Shelter of the Wood River Valley, I let them know they are beautiful, loved and that the perfect home is awaiting them. I think some people at the shelter used to call me the "Cat Whisperer." Like humans, these feline friends need a little extra reinforcement that they are extraordinary beings. They, in return, remind me of the same thing about myself. The cats and I share unconditional love with each other. When I leave I am filled with warm and fuzzies (yes, pun intended—I am covered in cat fur).

2. Sharing Laughter: I feel so fortunate to have Company of Fools here in Hailey and I am thrilled I had the courage (it took a lot!) to sign up for an acting class a few years ago. Due to the Company of Fools improvisation class this past winter on Mondays, I believe that Hailey was abuzz—no, not from anything electric, but from the tremendous laughter coming from Andrew Alburger's class. Rarely have I seen a bunch of adults and teens, who didn't all know each other, have more fun and laugh hysterically for two hours. Mondays became one of the best days of the week for me.

3. Sharing Friendship: I look forward to the times when we have Piccolo Restaurant reunions. Though Piccolo closed five years ago, the good times continue on. Piccolo women and the occasional gent at the restaurant were my family and always will be. There isn't a time I don't see a familiar face from my Piccolo days and think of the fun we used to have together. Thanks to Abby, dear friend and proprietor of Piccolo fame, the atmosphere was warm and inviting. My first year as a waitress at Piccolo, I won "Best Waitress" in the Wood River Valley. Considering I had waited tables for about six months in my lifetime, I still want to know who stuffed the ballot box! I am grateful to have such an extended family living here in the Wood River Valley.

4. Sharing Wonderment: Playing lacrosse with my 4-year-old nephew, Alex—spring couldn't come soon enough—when the snow hadn't even melted. I bought a Whiffle ball set in mid-February, and the Easter goodies, as soon as it was on the shelves. The time that we spend together is precious and every time he calls me "Auntie," I feel our bond deepen more and more. Seeing through Alex's eyes increases my awareness and allows me to be completely in the moment.

5. Sharing Togetherness: I've always loved to cook and plan grand parties as a part of my career and other life in NYC. Before I met my husband, Ron, he was a chef at the Lodge Dining Room—prior to working for the fire department. Having been single for most of my life (and an only child all of my life), I have to remind myself that now what is two hours to party time would be four or more without the helping and loving hands of Ron. I am grateful for his recent idea to rent the glassware—we get to bed earlier and have the opportunity to share stories and laughs about the fun times had by all.




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