I am one of the most fortunate people I know.
I am not financially stable. I am not particularly popular. I am not especially attractive. I am not all that intelligent.
You know what I got?
Love.
I have a family...a family that defies description (but I wouldn't be Erin unless I tried!). I have a father I can stay up half the night with talking about faith and souls and politics and truth. He has taught me that nothing is impossible and has passed on a belief in the human race I am so grateful for. I have a sister who can pull off family pictures for the first time in years, convince people they are in control without giving up control herself, and accept individuals without judgement. I have a mother...my mother bakes the best rum cakes on the face of the planet. My mother acknowledges her limitations and still aims for perfection. She loves with a fierceness I aspire to every day of my life.
And my friends?
Nothing is more amazing than having friends for so many years you forgot how long you've known each other and yet still be able to learn how much you have in common as adults. To look across a table at someone and say "I know EXACTLY how you feel! I'm NOT crazy and alone! Let's make a pact involving bottles of expensive booze, empty wombs, and never ever EVER forgetting that looking out for ourselves doesn't mean we're selfish!"
This week in Vermont has been tumultuous. And I still have to survive the Christmas party where I will be told 8,000 times how sorry everyone is that they weren't able to meet my boyfriend and observe people I graduated from high school with juggle being a parent to 3 kids and interact socially with their own parents. I'm optimistic my brother-in-law and I will make it through thanks to the fifth of Bacardi he brought.
And yet aside from my own attitude, which has been "fresh" at the very least, I wouldn't change a thing.
I don't need money. I don't need things. I have everything I need right here.
All I need to do is come back home.
It's all here waiting for me.
Friday, December 22, 2006
Thursday, December 21, 2006
tonight: tacos and love actually
Dial-up is a terrible horrible no good very bad way of accessing the internet.
Thus far I have:
Driven 30 miles through the mountains in order to buy mittens at the Johnson Woolen Factory.
Decided that I want to live in Jeffersonville or Cambridge.
Purchased very expensive yarn and taught myself how to knit cables.
Drank an obscene amount of coffee.
Stayed up late talking to my parents.
Convinced my Dad it was our patriotic duty to watch and then ridicule G.W.B.'s press conference.
Run.
Consumed wine and cheese with Alicia.
Went to City Market and almost died when I saw the plethora of vegetarian and organic options.
Drank a Long Trail Ale.
Ate a delicious meal at Sonoma Station in Richford and talked to Jill about the difference between love and in love.
Watched The Daily Show on Canadian tv during which they showed an ad for a sex shop in Montreal.
Enjoyed a hot stone massage.
Received a cute new haircut.
Lunched with my Mom and sister.
I'm exhausted. I'm not sleeping very well and I don't want to talk about the amount of coffee I'm drinking. This weekend is INSANE with stuff to do. Tomorrow is already chockfull of passport pictures, family outings, family lunch, trips to Burlington for a new winter coat, and dinner with friends. Saturday is the annual Davison Christmas Party that starts at 4 and goes until everyone passes out. Sunday is our family Christmas, laundry, packing, and Church. Monday....
I don't want to talk about Monday.
I still have 3 days to not sleep and cram in as much time with loved ones as humanly possible.
Thus far I have:
Driven 30 miles through the mountains in order to buy mittens at the Johnson Woolen Factory.
Decided that I want to live in Jeffersonville or Cambridge.
Purchased very expensive yarn and taught myself how to knit cables.
Drank an obscene amount of coffee.
Stayed up late talking to my parents.
Convinced my Dad it was our patriotic duty to watch and then ridicule G.W.B.'s press conference.
Run.
Consumed wine and cheese with Alicia.
Went to City Market and almost died when I saw the plethora of vegetarian and organic options.
Drank a Long Trail Ale.
Ate a delicious meal at Sonoma Station in Richford and talked to Jill about the difference between love and in love.
Watched The Daily Show on Canadian tv during which they showed an ad for a sex shop in Montreal.
Enjoyed a hot stone massage.
Received a cute new haircut.
Lunched with my Mom and sister.
I'm exhausted. I'm not sleeping very well and I don't want to talk about the amount of coffee I'm drinking. This weekend is INSANE with stuff to do. Tomorrow is already chockfull of passport pictures, family outings, family lunch, trips to Burlington for a new winter coat, and dinner with friends. Saturday is the annual Davison Christmas Party that starts at 4 and goes until everyone passes out. Sunday is our family Christmas, laundry, packing, and Church. Monday....
I don't want to talk about Monday.
I still have 3 days to not sleep and cram in as much time with loved ones as humanly possible.
Monday, December 18, 2006
homeward bound
I am officially less than one hour away from freedom. Freedom from post-menopausal women who have no choice but act is if their existence is essential to the innerworkings of this place because the realization that they are nothing more than a glorified check out girl is too much for their fragile sense of self worth.
Dang. I really really need this vacation.
And I'm almost ready. Though I was ridiculed for the numerous sweaters I packed (6 is most certainly not too many)I'm feeling pretty good about my variety of fashion choices. I'm hoping my Mom doesn't read this before she can call and harass me, but I'm not bringing my winter coat. And let me tell you why: I don't like it. It's good for those long walks to work in the morning, but it's wa-ay too big for me. And according to her favorite--The Weather Channel--the temperatures are to hover around the 40 degree mark. I will bring a hat. I will bring gloves. But the Columbia jacket stays here.
I spent the last hour as Miss Information where my time was wisely spent looking up all of my favorite restaurants in the Burlington area. I'm hoping to hit Penny Cluse at the very least. And I know I do it every time, but I love Smokejacks. And A Single Pebble.
And the Church Street shopping.
Dang. I really really need this vacation.
And I'm almost ready. Though I was ridiculed for the numerous sweaters I packed (6 is most certainly not too many)I'm feeling pretty good about my variety of fashion choices. I'm hoping my Mom doesn't read this before she can call and harass me, but I'm not bringing my winter coat. And let me tell you why: I don't like it. It's good for those long walks to work in the morning, but it's wa-ay too big for me. And according to her favorite--The Weather Channel--the temperatures are to hover around the 40 degree mark. I will bring a hat. I will bring gloves. But the Columbia jacket stays here.
I spent the last hour as Miss Information where my time was wisely spent looking up all of my favorite restaurants in the Burlington area. I'm hoping to hit Penny Cluse at the very least. And I know I do it every time, but I love Smokejacks. And A Single Pebble.
And the Church Street shopping.
And the City Market.
Otherwise known as my future employers.
Don't worry.
I have to come back and get Grace at the very least!
Friday, December 15, 2006
i don't deserve to go on a cruise anyway
I know you've all been waiting with bated breath wondering what in the world I was going to do about this whole cruise thing.
I need a passport.
Why do I not have a passport? Well, the last time I needed one was when I was about 10 years old and going to Europe. Once it expired I just never bothered to get it renewed. It's on the to-do-list as in 2008 I'll need one to enter Canada, but I haven't gotten around to it. It's possible to still get one, but the chances are slim and the cost is considerable. Compounding the problem is that whole Baby Jesus' Birthday Kwanzaa Hanukkah Extravaganza otherwise known as the holiday season. Things getting rushed through at such a time are unlikely. Carl may be able to pull some strings (way to go Homeland Security!), but I'm not optimistic. We'll just have to see.
Back to reality.
If you were planning on going to see Apocalypto because you were intrigued by the possible comparisons (alluded to in interviews with Mr. Gibson) between the Mayan Empire and the mighty United States or because you thought the history of the Mayan Empire was going to be chronicled or because you thought the cinematography would at least be good I'm here to say do not bother. I know, I know. I'm hypercritical when it comes to films, but this one really is unspectacular. The script is downright awful. The directing is uninspiring. The acting is barely passable. Mel Gibson managed to take what could have been a kick ass metaphor for modern Western civilization's proclivity for excess and turn it into 120+ minutes of stereotypes. Consider yourselves warned.
This weekend...this weekend...well, I'm going to the costume shop tomorrow as I've avoided that place like the plague this week. Couldn't take the students talking about exams. I'll also be doing some last minute laundry there. Saturday night I'm flying solo and hoping to find a hot date (or at the very least a ride) to the Sandbar. The Salt Miners are playing and rumor has it they're pretty good. Sunday I'm either going to a wedding or meeting somebody from somewhere who's coming into town sometime who won't be around by the time I get back from Vermont.
Assuming I come back from Vermont.
Because maybe I just won't come back.
But first up: Icy cold vodka martini with a twist.
And the last episode of the Gilmore Girls Season 1.
I need a passport.
Why do I not have a passport? Well, the last time I needed one was when I was about 10 years old and going to Europe. Once it expired I just never bothered to get it renewed. It's on the to-do-list as in 2008 I'll need one to enter Canada, but I haven't gotten around to it. It's possible to still get one, but the chances are slim and the cost is considerable. Compounding the problem is that whole Baby Jesus' Birthday Kwanzaa Hanukkah Extravaganza otherwise known as the holiday season. Things getting rushed through at such a time are unlikely. Carl may be able to pull some strings (way to go Homeland Security!), but I'm not optimistic. We'll just have to see.
Back to reality.
If you were planning on going to see Apocalypto because you were intrigued by the possible comparisons (alluded to in interviews with Mr. Gibson) between the Mayan Empire and the mighty United States or because you thought the history of the Mayan Empire was going to be chronicled or because you thought the cinematography would at least be good I'm here to say do not bother. I know, I know. I'm hypercritical when it comes to films, but this one really is unspectacular. The script is downright awful. The directing is uninspiring. The acting is barely passable. Mel Gibson managed to take what could have been a kick ass metaphor for modern Western civilization's proclivity for excess and turn it into 120+ minutes of stereotypes. Consider yourselves warned.
This weekend...this weekend...well, I'm going to the costume shop tomorrow as I've avoided that place like the plague this week. Couldn't take the students talking about exams. I'll also be doing some last minute laundry there. Saturday night I'm flying solo and hoping to find a hot date (or at the very least a ride) to the Sandbar. The Salt Miners are playing and rumor has it they're pretty good. Sunday I'm either going to a wedding or meeting somebody from somewhere who's coming into town sometime who won't be around by the time I get back from Vermont.
Assuming I come back from Vermont.
Because maybe I just won't come back.
But first up: Icy cold vodka martini with a twist.
And the last episode of the Gilmore Girls Season 1.
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
decisions decisions decisions
AAAAARRRRRRRRGGGGGHHHHHHH!!!!
We cannot catch a break, can we? One would hope that the stupid governor of South Dakota would put aside partisan politics and assign a Democrat to his seat given that the American people put that party in power, but I doubt that will happen. Stupid 17th Amendment. Stupid Constitution of the United States. God, I hate this country sometimes.
So this news only temporarily dampened my spirits. I received an unexpected phone call this afternoon whilst on desk from my friend Carl. Carl is a professional pianist who lives in NYC, but has taken a job with Norwegian Cruise Line and is working for Second City Improv Troupe. Confusing, I know. REGARDLESS, I have been invited to go on a free cruise with him to the Caribbean. Sounds like an opportunity of a lifetime, right? For any sane, normal, human being?
But this is Erin we are speaking of and I got me some reservations:
1. The trip is January 13-23. This is less than a month after I'd be returning from Vermont.
2. I'm still unclear as to what "free cruise" entails. I know that my airfare from MI to NYC (yeah, it starts in NYC!!!!) is covered, but what about meals? Gratuity? Adult beverages?
3. I'm not really a cruise kinda gal. I mean, I haven't ever been on a cruise before or anything, but I'm just not that into big boats that don't feel as though you're really on a boat. Or tours. Or laying out in the sun.
4. January is not typically bathing suit time for me so I'm woefully unprepared for such an endeavor. I'm pale. And not exactly as fit as I wish I would be to be lounging on the deck in a bikini.
I've already been told by a half a dozen people that I would be crazy to pass up this opportunity. I mean, I'd be in Antigua. In January. With my friend Carl. With whom I have a fabulous time. I'm going to be emailing him tonight to ask for some more specifics. When he called he was on the beach in St. Thomas. And I could hear the waves in the background. And almost smell the ocean.
Oh, poor little Erin! To go on the cruise or not to go?
I lead such a difficult life.
Everything else is moving along at a nice clip. I recently reconnected with my friend Michael where we discovered that neither of us are the center of the universe and blogging is no substitute for actual communication. It was really good to see him again. I had my first fitting on Monday and confirmed that the individual who took the measurements was indeed supremely stupid. I have but one episode left of Season 1 of the Gilmore Girls which is my latest guilty pleasure. I went to the Sandbar last night for the first time in 2 weeks. I had tea this morning with the lovely Christina and have not consumed caffeine today. It was the staff Christmas party and I still went out and purchased a b-i-g salad for my supper to avoid gorging on the many cheese laden items on the buffet table. In honor of the Christmas party, I look hot. No, seriously. Hot. Berghoef can vouch for me.
And I only have 3 more days of work before I head to the land of milk and honey for one glorious week of family and friends.
Life is good.
We cannot catch a break, can we? One would hope that the stupid governor of South Dakota would put aside partisan politics and assign a Democrat to his seat given that the American people put that party in power, but I doubt that will happen. Stupid 17th Amendment. Stupid Constitution of the United States. God, I hate this country sometimes.
So this news only temporarily dampened my spirits. I received an unexpected phone call this afternoon whilst on desk from my friend Carl. Carl is a professional pianist who lives in NYC, but has taken a job with Norwegian Cruise Line and is working for Second City Improv Troupe. Confusing, I know. REGARDLESS, I have been invited to go on a free cruise with him to the Caribbean. Sounds like an opportunity of a lifetime, right? For any sane, normal, human being?
But this is Erin we are speaking of and I got me some reservations:
1. The trip is January 13-23. This is less than a month after I'd be returning from Vermont.
2. I'm still unclear as to what "free cruise" entails. I know that my airfare from MI to NYC (yeah, it starts in NYC!!!!) is covered, but what about meals? Gratuity? Adult beverages?
3. I'm not really a cruise kinda gal. I mean, I haven't ever been on a cruise before or anything, but I'm just not that into big boats that don't feel as though you're really on a boat. Or tours. Or laying out in the sun.
4. January is not typically bathing suit time for me so I'm woefully unprepared for such an endeavor. I'm pale. And not exactly as fit as I wish I would be to be lounging on the deck in a bikini.
I've already been told by a half a dozen people that I would be crazy to pass up this opportunity. I mean, I'd be in Antigua. In January. With my friend Carl. With whom I have a fabulous time. I'm going to be emailing him tonight to ask for some more specifics. When he called he was on the beach in St. Thomas. And I could hear the waves in the background. And almost smell the ocean.
Oh, poor little Erin! To go on the cruise or not to go?
I lead such a difficult life.
Everything else is moving along at a nice clip. I recently reconnected with my friend Michael where we discovered that neither of us are the center of the universe and blogging is no substitute for actual communication. It was really good to see him again. I had my first fitting on Monday and confirmed that the individual who took the measurements was indeed supremely stupid. I have but one episode left of Season 1 of the Gilmore Girls which is my latest guilty pleasure. I went to the Sandbar last night for the first time in 2 weeks. I had tea this morning with the lovely Christina and have not consumed caffeine today. It was the staff Christmas party and I still went out and purchased a b-i-g salad for my supper to avoid gorging on the many cheese laden items on the buffet table. In honor of the Christmas party, I look hot. No, seriously. Hot. Berghoef can vouch for me.
And I only have 3 more days of work before I head to the land of milk and honey for one glorious week of family and friends.
Life is good.
Monday, December 11, 2006
ding! dong! pinochet is dead!
The Amy Grant Christmas album is over 20 years old. How did that happen?! This morning my walk to work was powered by her glorious rendition of Emmanuel and Little Town. Man oh man, how I used to love that record (yes, it was on vinyl). The music is all synthesized-out. The trumpets are not trumpets. The guitars are not guitars. The harps are not harps. It's truly a perfect Christmas record.
And then I got to listen to the Flaming Lips.
And Gorillaz.
I'm feeling better. Not 100%, but better. I credit my recovery to hot toddies and alot of sleep. I did go to the shop. I am officially a moron. I spent a ridiculous amount of time Saturday trying to figure out how to most effectively trace and cut a pattern piece only to do it the most ineffective way. Yesterday one could find me pondering which direction darts were supposed to be ironed and putting a skirt together completely out of order: one side seam, the CB seam, and finally the other side seam. Lord. The only thing I felt good about was how quickly I threaded the machine and how easily I fixed a bobbin/tension problem. I have a fitting tonight at 5pm for my body block and I'm going to recut and stitch the bodice before that. Hopefully this week I'll finally get to drape. That's really the fun part. No math, no curves, no rulers. Just me and a form and miles of muslin. The math, the curves, and the rulers come later.
Borat is funny. Go see it. I hear there were complaints about him being too "mean" to people, but I didn't think so. Most of the people he interacted with deserved to be made fun of. Racist white cowboys, misogynistic drunken frat boys, insane pentecostal religious freaks...Good times.
G.W.B. is giving the appearance that he's listening to everyone's opinions on an Iraq strategy and says he will unveil the new approach by Christmas. I hope his Christian base is praying for a Christmas miracle because that's what it's going to take to get that man to change his mind. I agree wholeheartedly with Biden: "He has this wholesome but naive view that Western notions of liberty are easily transposed to that area of the world." I had the pleasure of watching Sunday morning news shows (my church) this week and was pleased to hear people--intelligent people--discuss what a monumental disaster this entire operation has been. And discuss the various options available to the U.S. all of which are terrible, horrible, no-good, very bad options. I get so angry now watching everyone say what a mistake this war was. Four years ago those of us who thought that way were called unpatriotic and unAmerican. Stupid electorate. Stupid politicians. Stupid G.W.B. Unfortunately, my self-righteousness will not solve anything, nor will my rage. Iraq is a mess and will remain a mess. Nothing will make it better. America should be ashamed of itself.
My Obamamania continues to thrive. He was in New Hampshire this weekend selling out like a rockstar. He hasn't announced whether or not he will run and is doing his best to control the message that he's the Democratic Party's savior. He's not. He's just a man. And a politician at that. But politics is perception and everyone sees the hope of a new direction in Obama.
I love him.
You know who I don't love?
Pinochet.
May he rot in hell.
And then I got to listen to the Flaming Lips.
And Gorillaz.
I'm feeling better. Not 100%, but better. I credit my recovery to hot toddies and alot of sleep. I did go to the shop. I am officially a moron. I spent a ridiculous amount of time Saturday trying to figure out how to most effectively trace and cut a pattern piece only to do it the most ineffective way. Yesterday one could find me pondering which direction darts were supposed to be ironed and putting a skirt together completely out of order: one side seam, the CB seam, and finally the other side seam. Lord. The only thing I felt good about was how quickly I threaded the machine and how easily I fixed a bobbin/tension problem. I have a fitting tonight at 5pm for my body block and I'm going to recut and stitch the bodice before that. Hopefully this week I'll finally get to drape. That's really the fun part. No math, no curves, no rulers. Just me and a form and miles of muslin. The math, the curves, and the rulers come later.
Borat is funny. Go see it. I hear there were complaints about him being too "mean" to people, but I didn't think so. Most of the people he interacted with deserved to be made fun of. Racist white cowboys, misogynistic drunken frat boys, insane pentecostal religious freaks...Good times.
G.W.B. is giving the appearance that he's listening to everyone's opinions on an Iraq strategy and says he will unveil the new approach by Christmas. I hope his Christian base is praying for a Christmas miracle because that's what it's going to take to get that man to change his mind. I agree wholeheartedly with Biden: "He has this wholesome but naive view that Western notions of liberty are easily transposed to that area of the world." I had the pleasure of watching Sunday morning news shows (my church) this week and was pleased to hear people--intelligent people--discuss what a monumental disaster this entire operation has been. And discuss the various options available to the U.S. all of which are terrible, horrible, no-good, very bad options. I get so angry now watching everyone say what a mistake this war was. Four years ago those of us who thought that way were called unpatriotic and unAmerican. Stupid electorate. Stupid politicians. Stupid G.W.B. Unfortunately, my self-righteousness will not solve anything, nor will my rage. Iraq is a mess and will remain a mess. Nothing will make it better. America should be ashamed of itself.
My Obamamania continues to thrive. He was in New Hampshire this weekend selling out like a rockstar. He hasn't announced whether or not he will run and is doing his best to control the message that he's the Democratic Party's savior. He's not. He's just a man. And a politician at that. But politics is perception and everyone sees the hope of a new direction in Obama.
I love him.
You know who I don't love?
Pinochet.
May he rot in hell.
Friday, December 08, 2006
hot water, honey, lemon, and whiskey
The craziest thing happened today.
The sun made an appearance.
We've had 7 days of snow. Last night the total in Holland was at 15 inches. I believe Monday I made a comment about how I hadn't yet reached the "when will it end" point.
Point reached.
I'm done with snow for a little while.
Imagine the atmosphere when putting up a Christmas tree. I usually think of a festive holiday movie in the backround. Or maybe some Bing Crosby singing about a white Christmas. Me? I listened to someone read some Baudelaire, specifically The Flowers of Evil. It was quintessentially odd and perfect. Regardless, the little tree is up and decorated.
I'm still sick. It's looking like a very lowkey weekend is in order for me. I'll be spending Saturday and Sunday in the shop getting ready for my first fitting on Monday. Seeing as though I have but a body block drafted on paper, I'd say I have some work to do. My first ACTUAL fitting isn't really until January, but the measurements I got were sketchy at best so I went ahead and asked for an earlier one. No point in wasting hours of time trying to drape or draft only to find that things are completely off. In theory, I also have holiday cards to get out in the mail. I have never once in the 14 years since officially becoming an adult sent out cards. I'm not sure what compelled me to start now, but since I have them it seems a shame to not do it. And I got season 1 of the Gilmore Girls in on DVD.
Sewing, sending out cards, and watching the Gilmore Girls with my cat.
Don't intervene yet, but if I keep this up someone come and make me be irresponsible and fun.
The sun made an appearance.
We've had 7 days of snow. Last night the total in Holland was at 15 inches. I believe Monday I made a comment about how I hadn't yet reached the "when will it end" point.
Point reached.
I'm done with snow for a little while.
Imagine the atmosphere when putting up a Christmas tree. I usually think of a festive holiday movie in the backround. Or maybe some Bing Crosby singing about a white Christmas. Me? I listened to someone read some Baudelaire, specifically The Flowers of Evil. It was quintessentially odd and perfect. Regardless, the little tree is up and decorated.
I'm still sick. It's looking like a very lowkey weekend is in order for me. I'll be spending Saturday and Sunday in the shop getting ready for my first fitting on Monday. Seeing as though I have but a body block drafted on paper, I'd say I have some work to do. My first ACTUAL fitting isn't really until January, but the measurements I got were sketchy at best so I went ahead and asked for an earlier one. No point in wasting hours of time trying to drape or draft only to find that things are completely off. In theory, I also have holiday cards to get out in the mail. I have never once in the 14 years since officially becoming an adult sent out cards. I'm not sure what compelled me to start now, but since I have them it seems a shame to not do it. And I got season 1 of the Gilmore Girls in on DVD.
Sewing, sending out cards, and watching the Gilmore Girls with my cat.
Don't intervene yet, but if I keep this up someone come and make me be irresponsible and fun.
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
i feel like jerri blank only i wasn't ever a prostitute. or a drug addict. or in prison.
I seem to have contracted a cold. Again. And this one's gonna be a bitch to shake. It started Monday with a tickle in my throat and has become a full-blown snotty coughing eyes tearing mess of a thing. I debated whether or not I should come to work today, but the guilt of knowing we were short tonight won out over my comfort. I hate having a conscience sometimes.
I am now in possession of a key to the costume shop. This not only means I am no longer a slave to their 9-5 hours, but also that I may never have to be in the same room as those students ever again. Here's the thing: they aren't horrible. They're just... college students. And not just any college students. They're theatre kids. In 2 short days I was introduced to the slut of the department, the righteous Christian girl of the department, the drunk of the department, the girl who thinks she knows everything but really knows nothing of the department and the staple of every theatre department across this great land: the guy who thinks he's straight but everyone knows is gay. And the music! It's usually this non-offensive, unbelievably boring, and slightly Christian wretchedness. The alternative? John Mayer. Over half of them couldn't stop talking about how excited they were that they had tickets to the Over the Rhine concert that night. I am in music hell here, people. As far as I know, no one who reads this is from my theatrey past so I won't bore anyone with details (I'm going to have to make miracles happen with silk charmeuse. And whoever took this girl's measurements was a moron: her nape to waist measurement could not possibly be 58". She would be a ginormous freak of nature if that was the case!), but so far I'm hanging in there. I thought my first task would take 5 hours and it took 2. So there.
It's almost not worth mentioning as news because everyone knew he would fly through but Rumsfeld is officially no longer the Secretary of Defense. Quite honestly, I don't know if anyone really cares about Gates. Everyone cares that Rumsfeld is done. Here, here!
Our kindly shoemaker from Michigan (he's really not a shoemaker, but he really looks like one), Senator Levin keeps talking away. Today it was the Iraq Study Group:
"The report represents another blow at the policy of 'stay-the-course' that this administration has followed," the Michigan Democrat said. "Hopefully, this will be the end of that stay-the-course policy."
Levin loves the term "stay-the-course." I think because for the past 4 years he was called a cut-and-run Democrat and unpatriotic. Tony Snow had this to say for the White House:
"Stay the course is not the policy and it's been that way for months," said Snow during his daily White House briefing for reporters. "We look at this as a very positive document."
He's not completely inaccurate though I don't know if the end of October can be considered "months." And the report wasn't exactly a glowing endorsement for what G.W.B. considers the current policy which is to "win in Iraq."
Anyone want to explain what the hell that means?
This is a really boring time of year politically. Congress is no longer in session. The Republicans left a big mess for the Democrats to clean up in January. The Democrats are insisting that the House work 5 days a week, poor things. Until the House and Senate are sworn in there just isn't much going on.
Except Iraq.
Which isn't going anywhere.
I am now in possession of a key to the costume shop. This not only means I am no longer a slave to their 9-5 hours, but also that I may never have to be in the same room as those students ever again. Here's the thing: they aren't horrible. They're just... college students. And not just any college students. They're theatre kids. In 2 short days I was introduced to the slut of the department, the righteous Christian girl of the department, the drunk of the department, the girl who thinks she knows everything but really knows nothing of the department and the staple of every theatre department across this great land: the guy who thinks he's straight but everyone knows is gay. And the music! It's usually this non-offensive, unbelievably boring, and slightly Christian wretchedness. The alternative? John Mayer. Over half of them couldn't stop talking about how excited they were that they had tickets to the Over the Rhine concert that night. I am in music hell here, people. As far as I know, no one who reads this is from my theatrey past so I won't bore anyone with details (I'm going to have to make miracles happen with silk charmeuse. And whoever took this girl's measurements was a moron: her nape to waist measurement could not possibly be 58". She would be a ginormous freak of nature if that was the case!), but so far I'm hanging in there. I thought my first task would take 5 hours and it took 2. So there.
It's almost not worth mentioning as news because everyone knew he would fly through but Rumsfeld is officially no longer the Secretary of Defense. Quite honestly, I don't know if anyone really cares about Gates. Everyone cares that Rumsfeld is done. Here, here!
Our kindly shoemaker from Michigan (he's really not a shoemaker, but he really looks like one), Senator Levin keeps talking away. Today it was the Iraq Study Group:
"The report represents another blow at the policy of 'stay-the-course' that this administration has followed," the Michigan Democrat said. "Hopefully, this will be the end of that stay-the-course policy."
Levin loves the term "stay-the-course." I think because for the past 4 years he was called a cut-and-run Democrat and unpatriotic. Tony Snow had this to say for the White House:
"Stay the course is not the policy and it's been that way for months," said Snow during his daily White House briefing for reporters. "We look at this as a very positive document."
He's not completely inaccurate though I don't know if the end of October can be considered "months." And the report wasn't exactly a glowing endorsement for what G.W.B. considers the current policy which is to "win in Iraq."
Anyone want to explain what the hell that means?
This is a really boring time of year politically. Congress is no longer in session. The Republicans left a big mess for the Democrats to clean up in January. The Democrats are insisting that the House work 5 days a week, poor things. Until the House and Senate are sworn in there just isn't much going on.
Except Iraq.
Which isn't going anywhere.
Monday, December 04, 2006
score: grace 0, mouse 1
It is so strange how winter descended upon Western Michigan this year. Though it has been snowing constantly since Friday, I have yet to reach the "JesusMaryandJoseph is it EVER going to stop snowing?!?!" emotional point. It has to do with the unseasonably warm temperatures last week methinks. And that I have not yet had to trudge to work in the freezing cold thanks to my feminine wiles.
Erin's going back to school today. I'm heading to the costume shop at 3:30pm to figure out a schedule and pick a dress to drape and build. I'm nervous. I haven't sewed a garment in years let alone drape anything. I'm hoping that it'll be like riding a bike though I suspect it's going to be more like running. Just because at one point in your life you ran 26.2 miles doesn't mean that you can rush out and run 5 miles at your formerly "relaxed" pace of 10 min/mile if you've taken a significantly long break. Sigh. I also had a brief moment of "what if the other kids don't like me?" and was told not to worry. They won't like me.
My weekend was just about as wonderful as I had hoped it would be. I had a fabulous time with the former roommate and am hoping we can get together some time this week for a more cost effective date of tea. She's amazing. She looks great, she sounds serene, and she's inspired me to start doing yoga and--brace yourselves--attempt to give up coffee. I don't think I'll ever be able to truly give it up. The taste alone is way too good, but I haven't had any since Thursday and do feel like less of a slave to the bean. Friday was Love Actuallied out. Saturday, aside from the work part, was chock full of solitude. Sunday was fruitful as I came home with a load of very nice clothes compliments of gift certificates from last year. Our last trip was to Target where I could not help but spend some money. The evening ended with the BSC announcements (I will refrain from ranting about the selection process-which is bullshit!-and fuck (sorry parents!) Notre Dame going to the Sugar Bowl) and be happy that Michigan is playing in the one Bowl that is still unassociated with commercial endorsements) and 2 hilarious episodes of the Family Guy and American Dad.
When the Bolton announcement was originally made, I assumed it was his choice to resign. No, oh no. He can't get the Senate nomination. Ha! In stereotypical Bushian fashion, he's standing by Bolton despite widespread opposition. You know, I've always operated under the assumption that Bush was the big dumb pawn in the American political game, but I'm starting to think he's just that stubborn. No one really knows what the deal was with the Rumsfeld memo leak. Is it an embarrassment to the White House? An admission that Rumsfeld did in fact disagree with Bush on Iraq at the end? Is it a leak from the Democrats who are all too happy to point out the irony that a man who seemed absolutely positive that his was the only way did in fact have doubts? Is it the Republicans attempting to give Rumsfeld some cred because they know that he was just the scapegoat? Regardless, the G.W.B. era of arrogance and stubbornness is about to end. As January approaches and Iraq starts feeling more like a geopolitical chessgame and less real, I'm starting to rethink my early assertions that the Democrats leave him alone.
Let's go after the bastard.
And one final story from Erin's life:
My first mouse made it's appearance last night. It was so stinking cute! It popped out from behind the stove and then attempted to make a run for it. Grace was all over that. She caught it and then dropped it. She caught it and then dropped it. She caught it and then dropped it. I think she played that little game about 6 times before it made it's escape into the tower of returnables. Though I've always said I have a zero tolerance policy regarding mice it's a little tough being the good vegetarian I am to fill my house with traps. Alas, I fear I have no choice. My initial response was to stop feeding Grace as much in the hopes that the little darlings will at least die a natural death, but the thought of waking up and finding a family hidden in my pantry is too much for my heart.
Plus there is that whole bloodthirsty part of my personality that I need to occasionally indulge.
Erin's going back to school today. I'm heading to the costume shop at 3:30pm to figure out a schedule and pick a dress to drape and build. I'm nervous. I haven't sewed a garment in years let alone drape anything. I'm hoping that it'll be like riding a bike though I suspect it's going to be more like running. Just because at one point in your life you ran 26.2 miles doesn't mean that you can rush out and run 5 miles at your formerly "relaxed" pace of 10 min/mile if you've taken a significantly long break. Sigh. I also had a brief moment of "what if the other kids don't like me?" and was told not to worry. They won't like me.
My weekend was just about as wonderful as I had hoped it would be. I had a fabulous time with the former roommate and am hoping we can get together some time this week for a more cost effective date of tea. She's amazing. She looks great, she sounds serene, and she's inspired me to start doing yoga and--brace yourselves--attempt to give up coffee. I don't think I'll ever be able to truly give it up. The taste alone is way too good, but I haven't had any since Thursday and do feel like less of a slave to the bean. Friday was Love Actuallied out. Saturday, aside from the work part, was chock full of solitude. Sunday was fruitful as I came home with a load of very nice clothes compliments of gift certificates from last year. Our last trip was to Target where I could not help but spend some money. The evening ended with the BSC announcements (I will refrain from ranting about the selection process-which is bullshit!-and fuck (sorry parents!) Notre Dame going to the Sugar Bowl) and be happy that Michigan is playing in the one Bowl that is still unassociated with commercial endorsements) and 2 hilarious episodes of the Family Guy and American Dad.
When the Bolton announcement was originally made, I assumed it was his choice to resign. No, oh no. He can't get the Senate nomination. Ha! In stereotypical Bushian fashion, he's standing by Bolton despite widespread opposition. You know, I've always operated under the assumption that Bush was the big dumb pawn in the American political game, but I'm starting to think he's just that stubborn. No one really knows what the deal was with the Rumsfeld memo leak. Is it an embarrassment to the White House? An admission that Rumsfeld did in fact disagree with Bush on Iraq at the end? Is it a leak from the Democrats who are all too happy to point out the irony that a man who seemed absolutely positive that his was the only way did in fact have doubts? Is it the Republicans attempting to give Rumsfeld some cred because they know that he was just the scapegoat? Regardless, the G.W.B. era of arrogance and stubbornness is about to end. As January approaches and Iraq starts feeling more like a geopolitical chessgame and less real, I'm starting to rethink my early assertions that the Democrats leave him alone.
Let's go after the bastard.
And one final story from Erin's life:
My first mouse made it's appearance last night. It was so stinking cute! It popped out from behind the stove and then attempted to make a run for it. Grace was all over that. She caught it and then dropped it. She caught it and then dropped it. She caught it and then dropped it. I think she played that little game about 6 times before it made it's escape into the tower of returnables. Though I've always said I have a zero tolerance policy regarding mice it's a little tough being the good vegetarian I am to fill my house with traps. Alas, I fear I have no choice. My initial response was to stop feeding Grace as much in the hopes that the little darlings will at least die a natural death, but the thought of waking up and finding a family hidden in my pantry is too much for my heart.
Plus there is that whole bloodthirsty part of my personality that I need to occasionally indulge.
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