Imagine getting to work on what should be just another ordinary day and discovering you have zero access to ANY email--work-related or otherwise--and limited access to some of your favorite websites due to an insane Nazi-like filter that doesn't even work. I can access Toothpaste for Dinner, but not Natalie Dee. I can read Savage Love, but not The Onion. Of course, I shouldn't be reading any of those whilst at work, but thanks to this latest "upgrade" the public internet stations are down as well so there is no one here and very little to do. I should be grateful I'm not locked out of blogger--which is weird. I can also read comments on MySpace (but not messages) so feel free to contact me there. Especially tonight. And probably tomorrow. No one seems to know when or how this will all be resolved.
Life without the internets is not a life worth living.
Happy 1 year of public blogging to me! What is most amazing is how effective this little exercise ended up being. I started blogging to get me to write more and indeed I am now writing more. I ain't gonna be writing novels any time soon, but I do have one little poem I'm awfully proud to have written. And I'm getting more interested in writing essays ala Sarah Vowell. I was just reminded that I have a big ol'check coming my way thanks to the re-negotiation of the union contract and I'm seriously considering purchasing a laptop. Though I wouldn't get internet access at home the prospect of spending hours at Lemonjellos using their free wireless and getting jacked up on Love Buzz makes me ecstatic.
Life continues to move. I had a very successful fitting on Monday that knocked my socks off. Unfortunately, I still have a ton of stuff to do...like, uh, make the costume. If I hadn't had a nervous breakdown my work would be done but as this little show opens 2 weeks from tonight and all I got is some perfectly fitting muslin garments, I'm not anticipating having much of life anytime soon. I continue to be tired all the time. I also continue to eat horribly and not exercise. This project has reminded me why I got out of this business in the first place. You do not have a life outside of the show. Everything is about the show. The world will come to an end if the show isn't perfect. The show the show the show the show. I hate it. Honestly, it's School for Scandal in the studio theatre at Hope College. Who.cares.
Snow keeps falling from the sky. Last I heard we were somewhere around 10 inches with no end in sight. Plus it's going to be about 7 degrees this weekend. For a brief moment yesterday, the sun made an appearance. It was glorious. But right now I'd give my cat for a warm and sunny day.
As I didn't have a chance to blog yesterday, I want to make sure I give a big old shout-out Happy Birthday to the most amazing Dad in the world. I miss you more than these words could ever adequately express. I am so fortunate to have such a wise individual in my life who continues to inspire and encourage me. I love you!
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
Friday, January 26, 2007
i blame not having seen the sun in over a week
I would venture to say this has been the worst week I have had in ages. Eons. Forever. Aside from the diagnosis that I'm most likely not suffering from a fatigue-like disease at all but rather depression, I am surrounded by people who are suffering as well. Family and friends alike. I feel helpless and weak and impotent. Today was the first day this week I awoke with a tad bit of hope that eventually the bell jar will lift.
I did not watch the State of the Union.
Nor did I hear first hand what was nominated for the Oscars.
And quite honestly, I do not care much about either right now.
I have been reading quite a bit. I continue to pick up the Prose and I've started reading poetry again with a vengeance. Plus I picked up Ted Kooser's The Poetry Home Repair Manual because nothing says "Hey, I'm depressed!" like a bunch of poorly written poetry. What a catch 22. Nothing says "Hey, I can write poetry!" like an onset of depression. Regardless, some of you will be pleased to know that I am indeed writing. It's really interesting and really hard and everything I've written this week needs to sit and marinate for about 3 or 4 weeks. The verdict on the validity of said writing will wait until then.
Operation Project Runway continues. It was temporarily derailed, but thanks to the best faculty advisor in the world, I'm back on track. I was reminded that I have a tendency to look at the big picture and want to fix it all at once when what I need to do is take it one step at a time and not forget to ask for help.
And that would be the exact same advice I just received from the best parents in the world in regards to My Life.
Tonight I'm taking a young man out to supper to thank him for holding my hand and reading my bad poetry and driving me to work and watching About Schmidt and getting excited about the delicious mess known as Harry Potter and going to a funeral with me and just being him.
Then we have to attend visiting hours.
Molly's Dad passed away Wednesday night.
Did I mention this was the worst week I've had in a very long time?
Tomorrow morning I'm at the shop at 9am until the funeral at 1pm. Depending upon how that all goes I'm either heading back to the shop or an afternoon of frivolity is in order. I'm thinking Pan's Labyrinth and maybe picking up tickets for the Reverend Horton Heat concert in early March. Sunday morning is looking like fitting time and then it's Monday again.
May this week prove to be better than the last.
I did not watch the State of the Union.
Nor did I hear first hand what was nominated for the Oscars.
And quite honestly, I do not care much about either right now.
I have been reading quite a bit. I continue to pick up the Prose and I've started reading poetry again with a vengeance. Plus I picked up Ted Kooser's The Poetry Home Repair Manual because nothing says "Hey, I'm depressed!" like a bunch of poorly written poetry. What a catch 22. Nothing says "Hey, I can write poetry!" like an onset of depression. Regardless, some of you will be pleased to know that I am indeed writing. It's really interesting and really hard and everything I've written this week needs to sit and marinate for about 3 or 4 weeks. The verdict on the validity of said writing will wait until then.
Operation Project Runway continues. It was temporarily derailed, but thanks to the best faculty advisor in the world, I'm back on track. I was reminded that I have a tendency to look at the big picture and want to fix it all at once when what I need to do is take it one step at a time and not forget to ask for help.
And that would be the exact same advice I just received from the best parents in the world in regards to My Life.
Tonight I'm taking a young man out to supper to thank him for holding my hand and reading my bad poetry and driving me to work and watching About Schmidt and getting excited about the delicious mess known as Harry Potter and going to a funeral with me and just being him.
Then we have to attend visiting hours.
Molly's Dad passed away Wednesday night.
Did I mention this was the worst week I've had in a very long time?
Tomorrow morning I'm at the shop at 9am until the funeral at 1pm. Depending upon how that all goes I'm either heading back to the shop or an afternoon of frivolity is in order. I'm thinking Pan's Labyrinth and maybe picking up tickets for the Reverend Horton Heat concert in early March. Sunday morning is looking like fitting time and then it's Monday again.
May this week prove to be better than the last.
Monday, January 22, 2007
i am so exhausted from writing haiku and free verse all day
I know I'm some kind of political freak, but I'm really glad to see the Democratic Primary Season heat up especially given that it's going to be a minority smackdown. With Clinton's "I'm a warm and fuzzy and nice and caring woman" announcement this weekend coupled with Richardson's "What the hell. I'm in" and Obama's "It's not really an announcement, but it's kind of an announcement and my real announcement is coming" I'm really optimistic about the greatest aspect of democracy: choice. Unlike 2004 where the field was flooded with who-the-hell-are-these-people candidates, we're looking at some certifiable superstars. The first debate is even scheduled. I'm excited. There are a few people I can see as viable options and I just hope the party doesn't screw up yet again and go with an "electable" candidate as opposed to the best candidate. I'm still in the throws of Obamamania, but I'll be looking closely at Richardson, Dodd, Edwards, and Kucinich. I know. Kucinich is dead in the water, but I love him. In a perfect world, he'd get the nomination.
Tomorrow is a big big big big day: Oscar nominations and the State of the Union! Here's my post from last year about the actual Oscars to give you an idea of just how obsessed I get with such things. And here's my SOTU post from last year. I'm actually going into both with lower than usual expectations. Lackluster pretty much sums up 2006 in terms of film--I predict Dreamgirls gets some nods. As will The Departed. I'm optimistic about Children of Men, but pretty sure the director will be Scorcese. And in the SOTU corner, the speech will most likely be rather dull. He's going to have to stay away from Iraq for the most part as Americans aren't too happy with his latest plan. He'll make one more attempt at framing this war as necessary for our security, but he's going to stick with domestic issues that he has no chance in hell of doing anything about. His health care plan sounds like lunacy. Taxing the middle class in order to pay for the uninsured isn't going to be too popular. In case anyone besides me is interested, here's his plan from the SOTU last year regarding health care which you will notice, despite his party being in control of Congress last year, went nowhere. He'll also hit on renewable energy, social security, immigration, and education. Sound familiar? The difference this year will be in the length of time spent not talking about the big huge gaping wound known as Iraq. It will be the lamest of lame duck presidential speeches.
And, of course, I'll be watching.
This afternoon and evening I'll be all Project Runwayed out at the shop in anticipation of my fitting tomorrow night. As I'm having trouble getting motivated for the actual garment or show or even the prospect of my degree, I've decided to pretend that I'm on Project Runway and only have 10 hours to complete my challenge. I shall spend the next 24 hours repeating the mantra "Make it work."
The rest of my weekend was interesting. Thursday night I was asked why I never write poetry. Friday night I was essentially asked the same thing which prompted me to go home and write a poem. It was hard and took a loooong time. Dad? You just gotta start. Just jump in. It doesn't come out right. Not the first time. Not the second time. My little book was all kinds of crossed out. But, after much work, I am actually rather proud of my little poem. I'm also working my way through Reading Like A Writer, which constantly reminds me how much work is put into the art of writing. It doesn't come out finished. There is editing and rewrites and more editing and more rewrites. The important thing to remember? Just write. Don't worry about where it's going or where it will end up. Just. Write.
I also played in my first ever euchre tournament which is so midwestern even I can't believe it. I held my own and despite having major anxiety about the event all afternoon, I actually had a really good time and got to see some people I hadn't seen in a long time. And I watched The Devil Wears Prada, finished Revolutionary Road, and started Battlestar Galactica.
Yup. You read that right. Battlestar Galactica.
Tomorrow is a big big big big day: Oscar nominations and the State of the Union! Here's my post from last year about the actual Oscars to give you an idea of just how obsessed I get with such things. And here's my SOTU post from last year. I'm actually going into both with lower than usual expectations. Lackluster pretty much sums up 2006 in terms of film--I predict Dreamgirls gets some nods. As will The Departed. I'm optimistic about Children of Men, but pretty sure the director will be Scorcese. And in the SOTU corner, the speech will most likely be rather dull. He's going to have to stay away from Iraq for the most part as Americans aren't too happy with his latest plan. He'll make one more attempt at framing this war as necessary for our security, but he's going to stick with domestic issues that he has no chance in hell of doing anything about. His health care plan sounds like lunacy. Taxing the middle class in order to pay for the uninsured isn't going to be too popular. In case anyone besides me is interested, here's his plan from the SOTU last year regarding health care which you will notice, despite his party being in control of Congress last year, went nowhere. He'll also hit on renewable energy, social security, immigration, and education. Sound familiar? The difference this year will be in the length of time spent not talking about the big huge gaping wound known as Iraq. It will be the lamest of lame duck presidential speeches.
And, of course, I'll be watching.
This afternoon and evening I'll be all Project Runwayed out at the shop in anticipation of my fitting tomorrow night. As I'm having trouble getting motivated for the actual garment or show or even the prospect of my degree, I've decided to pretend that I'm on Project Runway and only have 10 hours to complete my challenge. I shall spend the next 24 hours repeating the mantra "Make it work."
The rest of my weekend was interesting. Thursday night I was asked why I never write poetry. Friday night I was essentially asked the same thing which prompted me to go home and write a poem. It was hard and took a loooong time. Dad? You just gotta start. Just jump in. It doesn't come out right. Not the first time. Not the second time. My little book was all kinds of crossed out. But, after much work, I am actually rather proud of my little poem. I'm also working my way through Reading Like A Writer, which constantly reminds me how much work is put into the art of writing. It doesn't come out finished. There is editing and rewrites and more editing and more rewrites. The important thing to remember? Just write. Don't worry about where it's going or where it will end up. Just. Write.
I also played in my first ever euchre tournament which is so midwestern even I can't believe it. I held my own and despite having major anxiety about the event all afternoon, I actually had a really good time and got to see some people I hadn't seen in a long time. And I watched The Devil Wears Prada, finished Revolutionary Road, and started Battlestar Galactica.
Yup. You read that right. Battlestar Galactica.
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
i am so not a revengeful person
It's been almost a week?! What?!?!
Sorry about that. I not only have been busy, but I was out sick Monday. I have this overall sick/fatigue/achy/coughing thing that's surfaced. Blood tests are in the works. I'm beginning to think I might just have the flu.
Since it has been so long, I won't bore you with all the details. Here are some highlights:
Sorry about that. I not only have been busy, but I was out sick Monday. I have this overall sick/fatigue/achy/coughing thing that's surfaced. Blood tests are in the works. I'm beginning to think I might just have the flu.
Since it has been so long, I won't bore you with all the details. Here are some highlights:
- The McLaughlin Group is excellent Friday night viewing. Pat Buchanan, though crazy as a loon, might just turn out to be my hero. Here's the transcript of the show I watched.
- Though sickly and tired, I can rally for a night of spirited conversation about politics, mutual love for David Brooks, euchre etiquette, and why marriage just isn't my gig.
- Sometimes 15 hours of sleep isn't enough.
- Especially if you are awakened by G.W.B. saying "If you don't like my plan, then come up with an alternative."
- The Gilmore Girls really is an excellent show.
- But Wonderfalls is even better.
- And Traci? You were right. I'm maybe a little too much like Jaye.
- Scorcese winning best director at the Globes is a disappointing precursor to the Oscars.
- Watching Jim Lehrer interview G.W.B. is deliciously wicked. I'm still trying to figure out why George thought going on NewsHour was a good idea. And if the whole thing was just a big long liberal joke.
- "Little Miss Sunshine" was not a bad movie. There were entertaining elements. But ultimately I thought it was thin. It tried so hard to be an indie film it ceased to be about anything but being an indie film. It was beautifully shot. And the acting was good.
- Being sick-tired is exhausting.
My weekend is already shaping up to be good assuming I can muster the enthusiasm to drag myself out of bed. Friday night I'm having dinner with someone I suspect will quickly reveal herself to be a kindred spirit. Saturday night is a euchre tournament where I'll have to remember not to go alone when I'm 2 points from winning and the other team is down by 6 points. And the weekend may conclude with a covert trip to the Saz for the Burlesque Show and to spy on a coworker out on a date.
In between all of that I'm at the shop.
Thursday, January 11, 2007
move along...move along...just another liberal ranting
Didja watch? Huh?! Didja?!
I missed most of it as I get out of work at 9pm on Wednesdays, but I did catch the second half (where I was called a pessimist! How rude!) and watched PBS coverage post-speech.
First of all, who else thinks it was hilarious that he chose to give the speech in the library? I think it was to give the impression that the administration had "studied" the options--that they had spent hours pouring over old texts and looking to learn from past mistakes this country had made in other wars to ensure that the same mistakes were not made again.
Ahem.
He actually looked scared, I thought. Scared and like he might throw up at any moment. He knows. He knows full well that he's going this one alone and is in for a fight.
He started off exactly the way I thought:
"Tonight in Iraq, the armed forces of the United States are engaged in a struggle that will determine the direction of the global war on terror - and our safety here at home. "
The war in Iraq had zero to do with the global war on terror. Zero. Nada. Zip. Why G.W.B. insisted on invading Iraq while Afghanistan (who DOES have to do with his great epic global war) was still not secured, I do not know. Regardless, it is pretty common knowledge now that the mythical weapons of mass destruction never did exist. You created this mess, man. YOU did. Not al Quaeda, not Saddam, and not the Iraqi people. You did it all on your own. So stop. Stop trying to blur the lines of reality. Iraq is and will always be all you.
"Where mistakes have been made, the responsibility rests with me."
No.Way. There it is, folks. Despite using one of my favorite political phrases he eventually takes the blame. I don't know about you but I've been waiting for that since the beginning of this war. Sadly, it's too little too late.
"On September the 11th, 2001, we saw what a refuge for extremists on the other side of the world could bring to the streets of our own cities. For the safety of our people, America must succeed in Iraq."
We absolutely must succeed in Iraq-whatever that means. I agree completely. We leave now and the big vacuum of power that was already created when we removed Saddam will just get bigger and scarier. You lost me when once again you linked 9/11 with Iraq. It's so subtle how this administration has so successfully manipulated the American people into thinking that the two are somehow related. They are not.
"Our troops will have a well-defined mission: to help Iraqis clear and secure neighborhoods, to help them protect the local population, and to help ensure that the Iraqi forces left behind are capable of providing the security that Baghdad needs."
This is not going to work. It worked in Tall Afar, a city of 150,000 people. It will not work in the massive sprawling city of Baghdad. How do we know? History. See, if you had actually looked back to that little war we've been comparing this one to for the past 3 years you would have learned that we tried this exact same tactic in Vietnam and we failed. More importantly, this focus on security instead of diplomacy is the #1 problem with the plan. This war will not be won militarily. It will succeed politically or not at all. You are not only wasting billions and billions of dollars you are putting American soldiers and Iraqi citizens directly in the line of fire. You think we've seen violence this past year? Things are just going to continue to get worse.
"This begins with addressing Iran and Syria. These two regimes are allowing terrorists and insurgents to use their territory to move in and out of Iraq. Iran is providing material support for attacks on American troops. We will disrupt the attacks on our forces. We will interrupt the flow of support from Iran and Syria. And we will seek out and destroy the networks providing advanced weaponry and training to our enemies in Iraq."
And that's just a big old "Fuck you!" to the Iraq Study Group.
"The challenge playing out across the broader Middle East is more than a military conflict. It is the decisive ideological struggle of our time. On one side are those who believe in freedom and moderation. On the other side are extremists who kill the innocent, and have declared their intention to destroy our way of life. In the long run, the most realistic way to protect the American people is to provide a hopeful alternative to the hateful ideology of the enemy - by advancing liberty across a troubled region."
On one side is Islam. On the other side is Christianity. Let the flag waving commence. But seriously, how many times are we going to hear this? We are not going to win an epic ideological war with weapons.
"Acting on the good advice of Senator Joe Lieberman and other key members of Congress, we will form a new, bipartisan working group that will help us come together across party lines to win the war on terror."
Lieberman? You call that bipartisan?!? I'd ask what took you so long to include the party of Cut-and-Run, but I already know the answer. You lost this fall and have no choice but to pay attention to the other side.
"Fellow citizens: The year ahead will demand more patience, sacrifice, and resolve."
We're out of patience. We're sick of sacrificing for this administration's arrogance. And I just hope we have the resolve as citizens of this country to punish you to the full extent of the law for the gross misdeeds you have committed.
I missed most of it as I get out of work at 9pm on Wednesdays, but I did catch the second half (where I was called a pessimist! How rude!) and watched PBS coverage post-speech.
First of all, who else thinks it was hilarious that he chose to give the speech in the library? I think it was to give the impression that the administration had "studied" the options--that they had spent hours pouring over old texts and looking to learn from past mistakes this country had made in other wars to ensure that the same mistakes were not made again.
Ahem.
He actually looked scared, I thought. Scared and like he might throw up at any moment. He knows. He knows full well that he's going this one alone and is in for a fight.
He started off exactly the way I thought:
"Tonight in Iraq, the armed forces of the United States are engaged in a struggle that will determine the direction of the global war on terror - and our safety here at home. "
The war in Iraq had zero to do with the global war on terror. Zero. Nada. Zip. Why G.W.B. insisted on invading Iraq while Afghanistan (who DOES have to do with his great epic global war) was still not secured, I do not know. Regardless, it is pretty common knowledge now that the mythical weapons of mass destruction never did exist. You created this mess, man. YOU did. Not al Quaeda, not Saddam, and not the Iraqi people. You did it all on your own. So stop. Stop trying to blur the lines of reality. Iraq is and will always be all you.
"Where mistakes have been made, the responsibility rests with me."
No.Way. There it is, folks. Despite using one of my favorite political phrases he eventually takes the blame. I don't know about you but I've been waiting for that since the beginning of this war. Sadly, it's too little too late.
"On September the 11th, 2001, we saw what a refuge for extremists on the other side of the world could bring to the streets of our own cities. For the safety of our people, America must succeed in Iraq."
We absolutely must succeed in Iraq-whatever that means. I agree completely. We leave now and the big vacuum of power that was already created when we removed Saddam will just get bigger and scarier. You lost me when once again you linked 9/11 with Iraq. It's so subtle how this administration has so successfully manipulated the American people into thinking that the two are somehow related. They are not.
"Our troops will have a well-defined mission: to help Iraqis clear and secure neighborhoods, to help them protect the local population, and to help ensure that the Iraqi forces left behind are capable of providing the security that Baghdad needs."
This is not going to work. It worked in Tall Afar, a city of 150,000 people. It will not work in the massive sprawling city of Baghdad. How do we know? History. See, if you had actually looked back to that little war we've been comparing this one to for the past 3 years you would have learned that we tried this exact same tactic in Vietnam and we failed. More importantly, this focus on security instead of diplomacy is the #1 problem with the plan. This war will not be won militarily. It will succeed politically or not at all. You are not only wasting billions and billions of dollars you are putting American soldiers and Iraqi citizens directly in the line of fire. You think we've seen violence this past year? Things are just going to continue to get worse.
"This begins with addressing Iran and Syria. These two regimes are allowing terrorists and insurgents to use their territory to move in and out of Iraq. Iran is providing material support for attacks on American troops. We will disrupt the attacks on our forces. We will interrupt the flow of support from Iran and Syria. And we will seek out and destroy the networks providing advanced weaponry and training to our enemies in Iraq."
And that's just a big old "Fuck you!" to the Iraq Study Group.
"The challenge playing out across the broader Middle East is more than a military conflict. It is the decisive ideological struggle of our time. On one side are those who believe in freedom and moderation. On the other side are extremists who kill the innocent, and have declared their intention to destroy our way of life. In the long run, the most realistic way to protect the American people is to provide a hopeful alternative to the hateful ideology of the enemy - by advancing liberty across a troubled region."
On one side is Islam. On the other side is Christianity. Let the flag waving commence. But seriously, how many times are we going to hear this? We are not going to win an epic ideological war with weapons.
"Acting on the good advice of Senator Joe Lieberman and other key members of Congress, we will form a new, bipartisan working group that will help us come together across party lines to win the war on terror."
Lieberman? You call that bipartisan?!? I'd ask what took you so long to include the party of Cut-and-Run, but I already know the answer. You lost this fall and have no choice but to pay attention to the other side.
"Fellow citizens: The year ahead will demand more patience, sacrifice, and resolve."
We're out of patience. We're sick of sacrificing for this administration's arrogance. And I just hope we have the resolve as citizens of this country to punish you to the full extent of the law for the gross misdeeds you have committed.
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
back again
Sorry about that, folks! I really am more of a fan of WordPress, but until I can devote the time it's just too darn convenient with the whole google/gmail/blogger conglomeration.
Enraged would describe how I've been feeling the past 48 hours or so. It actually started yesterday morning when I was awakened by the BBC informing me in their oh-so-British-voices that the US was bombing the shit out of an al Quaida training camp in Somalia. How very Wag the Dog of the administration. It's perfectly wonderful timing given that tonight G.W.B. attempts to win back the hearts and minds of the American people. Now he gets to say "War on Terror" and "al Quaida" and "Iraq" fifty thousand times in one speech. Combine that with the intense but apparently successful battle yesterday on Haifa Street in Baghdad and G.W.B. is on his way. Where? I'm not sure, but he seems to think all of this posturing is helping his image. This whole thing is ridiculous. A majority of the American people are against a troop "surge" (I prefer escalation--read this if you're a wordgeek like myself). Add Congress and the Joint Chiefs and you've got G.W.B. standing alone. How typically arrogant him to ignore the will of the majority.
Despite the obvious--which is that I should absolutely positively without a doubt NOT watch this speech tonight at 9pm--I will be there screaming and throwing whatever is within reach at the tv. And so should all of you.
In a somewhat related vein, the other night I saw "Children of Men." Go and see this movie. It is moviemaking at it's best. From editing to script to camera angles to set dressing it is divine. There is so much going on here and so much to think about and talk about. It's violent, but beautiful. The story itself is something you have heard a thousand times before--a reluctant hero and his journey--but it's....just go and see it for yourself. Cuaron (who, for those of you who don't know, directed HP and Prisoner of Azkaban) deserves the Oscar for this one.
Though I have spent the week being angry about things I have no control over (see above), it's actually been pretty good. The training schedule is still on track. I am determined to train for this thing as a beginner given my history of too much+too fast= injury so yesterday found me a tad bit frustrated with a 30 minute run that had me run for 1 minute and then walk for 1 minute. Booooorrrrring! I've also had to get over my whole "if it t'ain't a 30 minute run, t'ain't worth it" mindset as today I ran 1.5 miles. For all ye runners who are interested, this site is really cool. No more using the car to map out routes! Last night I was reintroduced to the beauty of Wonderfalls and reminded why I'm not a Ginsberg fan (except for America. I really do love that poem) so that was good. I'm looking forward to Friday when I'll tea and knit with the lovely Christina and then later will meet up with Michael and hit up Gazelle so I can sign up for the run.
Tonight: speechwatching and going to bed early. This crazy schedule has left me tired just about all the time. I've been asked if I think I have some kind of iron deficiency, but I'm pretty sure I'm just busy. And running again. And not drinking coffee. Which I'm thinking I might reintroduce to my life in small morning quantities. Ms. Malkowski is to be commended for giving up the evil bean, but I miss me my Love Buzz from leMONjellos.
I officially declare my life without coffee to be over.
Enraged would describe how I've been feeling the past 48 hours or so. It actually started yesterday morning when I was awakened by the BBC informing me in their oh-so-British-voices that the US was bombing the shit out of an al Quaida training camp in Somalia. How very Wag the Dog of the administration. It's perfectly wonderful timing given that tonight G.W.B. attempts to win back the hearts and minds of the American people. Now he gets to say "War on Terror" and "al Quaida" and "Iraq" fifty thousand times in one speech. Combine that with the intense but apparently successful battle yesterday on Haifa Street in Baghdad and G.W.B. is on his way. Where? I'm not sure, but he seems to think all of this posturing is helping his image. This whole thing is ridiculous. A majority of the American people are against a troop "surge" (I prefer escalation--read this if you're a wordgeek like myself). Add Congress and the Joint Chiefs and you've got G.W.B. standing alone. How typically arrogant him to ignore the will of the majority.
Despite the obvious--which is that I should absolutely positively without a doubt NOT watch this speech tonight at 9pm--I will be there screaming and throwing whatever is within reach at the tv. And so should all of you.
In a somewhat related vein, the other night I saw "Children of Men." Go and see this movie. It is moviemaking at it's best. From editing to script to camera angles to set dressing it is divine. There is so much going on here and so much to think about and talk about. It's violent, but beautiful. The story itself is something you have heard a thousand times before--a reluctant hero and his journey--but it's....just go and see it for yourself. Cuaron (who, for those of you who don't know, directed HP and Prisoner of Azkaban) deserves the Oscar for this one.
Though I have spent the week being angry about things I have no control over (see above), it's actually been pretty good. The training schedule is still on track. I am determined to train for this thing as a beginner given my history of too much+too fast= injury so yesterday found me a tad bit frustrated with a 30 minute run that had me run for 1 minute and then walk for 1 minute. Booooorrrrring! I've also had to get over my whole "if it t'ain't a 30 minute run, t'ain't worth it" mindset as today I ran 1.5 miles. For all ye runners who are interested, this site is really cool. No more using the car to map out routes! Last night I was reintroduced to the beauty of Wonderfalls and reminded why I'm not a Ginsberg fan (except for America. I really do love that poem) so that was good. I'm looking forward to Friday when I'll tea and knit with the lovely Christina and then later will meet up with Michael and hit up Gazelle so I can sign up for the run.
Tonight: speechwatching and going to bed early. This crazy schedule has left me tired just about all the time. I've been asked if I think I have some kind of iron deficiency, but I'm pretty sure I'm just busy. And running again. And not drinking coffee. Which I'm thinking I might reintroduce to my life in small morning quantities. Ms. Malkowski is to be commended for giving up the evil bean, but I miss me my Love Buzz from leMONjellos.
I officially declare my life without coffee to be over.
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
Friday, December 22, 2006
catharsis and wine...a most excellent combination
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.
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.
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.
Thursday, November 30, 2006
all personal...no politics...
Well, Thursday just kinda flew by. We've been busy today thanks to the ominous weather report for tomorrow: 12 inches of snow. I'm thinking that's probably way off the mark, but heaven forbid anyone should be without stacks of movies and books just in case. Me? I'm off tomorrow. I really hope it does snow like crazy because nothing makes me happier than snuggling up on my couch for a day while snow is falling and Love Actually is on the tv. I'm not going to be very happy Saturday morning at 7:20am when I have to trudge through the stuff to get to work by 8, but I'll deal with that when it happens. AND tomorrow a young gentleman will be stopping by in the afternoon to snake my drain. Hells yes, I say! Though my neighbor's shower is far superior to mine it'll be nice to not leave the house to bathe. Plus, you know, not having to look at the vileness that is currently occupying my bathtub will be nice too.
Though working on a Saturday is never fun, I'm looking forward to my weekend of which night one kicks off tonight. A much needed late night noshing and cocktailing with my former roommate is the plan. We haven't hung out in months and both have much to catch up on. This is one of those people that I absolutely positively adore and miss very much. We were the finish-each-others-sentences kind of friends. We rarely see each other anymore for a myriad of reasons. I'm optimistic that tonight will be the beginning of a much more consistent friendship. Friday night is an early night for me due to the working on Saturday. Saturday night I'm hoping to head to G.R. for an evening of BuzzTime-a game which I have technically played before but have no idea how to play. It was New Year's Eve. And Sunday I'm being very brave and heading to multiple malls for a day of shopping.
It's going to be a very good weekend.
I just know it.
Though working on a Saturday is never fun, I'm looking forward to my weekend of which night one kicks off tonight. A much needed late night noshing and cocktailing with my former roommate is the plan. We haven't hung out in months and both have much to catch up on. This is one of those people that I absolutely positively adore and miss very much. We were the finish-each-others-sentences kind of friends. We rarely see each other anymore for a myriad of reasons. I'm optimistic that tonight will be the beginning of a much more consistent friendship. Friday night is an early night for me due to the working on Saturday. Saturday night I'm hoping to head to G.R. for an evening of BuzzTime-a game which I have technically played before but have no idea how to play. It was New Year's Eve. And Sunday I'm being very brave and heading to multiple malls for a day of shopping.
It's going to be a very good weekend.
I just know it.
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
my life is like a bad chick lit novel
I'm not going to go into details or anything, but if sometime in the near future one finds me drinking bottles of cheap wine alone with my cat and singing bad 80s love songs at the top of my lungs it's time for an intervention.
No more DVD Release Parties! I was up against Santa Claus and a parade downtown and still managed a respectable audience of 138. No more popcorn. No more unruly children. No more substandard computer animated cartoons. I'm being forced to continue this event in the spring, but am scaling it way back to only 2 or 3 films instead of 5. I've said it before and I will say it again: it is not my job to program for children. I will miss the now infamous emails I would send out after the show explaining how things went as will the staff it seems. I received an email from a coworker suggesting I continue sending out a weekly email describing my observations and interactions with patrons and then turn it into a book. Though occasionally you do have a good one (last night a 15 year old girl asked if she could "rent out" the library auditorium to throw her Sweet 16 Party) most patron interactions are brief and boring. "Yes, it sure is wet out there! Sounds like we're in for some snow! No, I haven't read the latest Karen Kinsbury. I'll have to check that out! Yup, it IS busy!" Not exactly page-turning material.
In honor of this momentous ending, I celebrated a little too much at the Sandbar. I had some good times with some regulars. And on the way home I discovered an unconventional method for ridding myself of the hiccups. It was a rough start to the day especially given that the drain in my bathtub was (and probably still is) clogged even after 2 bottles of Draino. It is currently filled 1/2 way with disgusting rusty water and floaty bits of junk. A call was made to the caretaker extraordinaire but I'm not holding my breath that it's been taken care of. I know I would have felt 100% better had I been able to stand in a steaming hot shower for 15 minutes. If the situation hasn't improved I've already lined up a shower for the morning at the front house.
Is it just me or has the U.S. started acting like an abusive spouse by blaming Iraq for the unstable environment? Now wait just a second, here. Before we (foolishly) invaded that country (illegally and unnecessarily) Saddam Hussein was doing a fine job of keeping everyone in line. Sectarian violence wasn't an issue. And it's not a coincidence that the violence increased right after the Democrats won back the House and Senate. They aren't stupid and they watch CNN right along with the rest of the world. Iraq's afraid we're going to pull out and everyone's looking to grab power and control. The White House can say whatever it wants, but it's also not a coincidence that memo was leaked the day G.W.B. was supposed to meet with al-Malaki. Don't call it a civil war and just keep insisting that al Qaeda is involved ("There's a lot of sectarian violence taking place, fomented, in my opinion, because of these attacks by al Qaeda, causing people to seek reprisal." That's a G.W.B. quote.) and maybe no one will notice when we pull out leaving that country a complete disaster. You think he'll ever define exactly what victory means in Iraq? Because I'm starting to wonder if victory means there are no more Iraqis left.
"We will continue to be flexible, and we'll make the changes necessary to succeed. But there's one thing I'm not going to do: I'm not going to pull our troops off the battlefield before the mission is complete," Bush said later, in a speech here in the Latvian capital. "We can accept nothing less than victory for our children and our grandchildren."
What about their children and grandchildren?
No more DVD Release Parties! I was up against Santa Claus and a parade downtown and still managed a respectable audience of 138. No more popcorn. No more unruly children. No more substandard computer animated cartoons. I'm being forced to continue this event in the spring, but am scaling it way back to only 2 or 3 films instead of 5. I've said it before and I will say it again: it is not my job to program for children. I will miss the now infamous emails I would send out after the show explaining how things went as will the staff it seems. I received an email from a coworker suggesting I continue sending out a weekly email describing my observations and interactions with patrons and then turn it into a book. Though occasionally you do have a good one (last night a 15 year old girl asked if she could "rent out" the library auditorium to throw her Sweet 16 Party) most patron interactions are brief and boring. "Yes, it sure is wet out there! Sounds like we're in for some snow! No, I haven't read the latest Karen Kinsbury. I'll have to check that out! Yup, it IS busy!" Not exactly page-turning material.
In honor of this momentous ending, I celebrated a little too much at the Sandbar. I had some good times with some regulars. And on the way home I discovered an unconventional method for ridding myself of the hiccups. It was a rough start to the day especially given that the drain in my bathtub was (and probably still is) clogged even after 2 bottles of Draino. It is currently filled 1/2 way with disgusting rusty water and floaty bits of junk. A call was made to the caretaker extraordinaire but I'm not holding my breath that it's been taken care of. I know I would have felt 100% better had I been able to stand in a steaming hot shower for 15 minutes. If the situation hasn't improved I've already lined up a shower for the morning at the front house.
Is it just me or has the U.S. started acting like an abusive spouse by blaming Iraq for the unstable environment? Now wait just a second, here. Before we (foolishly) invaded that country (illegally and unnecessarily) Saddam Hussein was doing a fine job of keeping everyone in line. Sectarian violence wasn't an issue. And it's not a coincidence that the violence increased right after the Democrats won back the House and Senate. They aren't stupid and they watch CNN right along with the rest of the world. Iraq's afraid we're going to pull out and everyone's looking to grab power and control. The White House can say whatever it wants, but it's also not a coincidence that memo was leaked the day G.W.B. was supposed to meet with al-Malaki. Don't call it a civil war and just keep insisting that al Qaeda is involved ("There's a lot of sectarian violence taking place, fomented, in my opinion, because of these attacks by al Qaeda, causing people to seek reprisal." That's a G.W.B. quote.) and maybe no one will notice when we pull out leaving that country a complete disaster. You think he'll ever define exactly what victory means in Iraq? Because I'm starting to wonder if victory means there are no more Iraqis left.
"We will continue to be flexible, and we'll make the changes necessary to succeed. But there's one thing I'm not going to do: I'm not going to pull our troops off the battlefield before the mission is complete," Bush said later, in a speech here in the Latvian capital. "We can accept nothing less than victory for our children and our grandchildren."
What about their children and grandchildren?
Monday, November 27, 2006
guess who's back?
Well, that didn't feel much like a holiday. I suppose having to work Friday didn't help. Nor did having to work Sunday afternoon. Ah well. It's Monday, again.
Despite it being all too short, it was a lovely weekend. The Beechwood wasn't the wretched experience anyone expected it to be. The hike was nice. The vegetarian feast was non-existent, but the whole wheat roasted vegetable pizza was delicious. Work on Friday was fine. I read almost an entire book on Saturday (don't be too impressed--it's modern fiction and enjoyable, but ultimately a pretty light read) and was planning on finishing it, but was tempted by a wine and cheese party at Amy and Scott's. I had a hard time transitioning from solitude to a crowd, but had a really nice time nonetheless. I was also the one who made the suggestion that perhaps the Notre Dame/USC game could be on as "background" on the ginormous tv. Junkie. I'm a football junkie. Sunday I worked, caught up with the Trav on how his vacation went (must. make. a. trip. down. South. North Carolina and Tennessee looked beautiful), watched the Patriots eek out a win over the Bears--and Dad? I leapt up and yelled "YES!" when they intercepted with 2 minutes to go ensuring their win. I am my father's daughter!--and then watched the normal Sunday night Fox programming. Today is errand-running day: drop off laundry, drop off already-late-DVD, go to grocery store, run to bank, go to post office, run to Walgreens, drop off car, run home....Yeesh. I think a later night movie is a possibility and then I'm heading to bed as early as possible. Tomorrow is the last DVD Release Party of the season and I'll need all the rest I can get to survive!
I'm on week 2 of some pretty big lifestyle changes. I've been running consistently for the past 2 weeks. I've stopped eating in front of my tv (again!) and am refusing to answer the phone while I'm eating. I haven't been going out nearly as much. I've been reading more. I have made plans for Thursday night with my much beloved and much missed best friend Christina to catch up. I have made plans with my much beloved and much needed co-worker Molly for a Sunday of shopping. Though the past year wouldn't seem like it, I crave stability and structure and succeed best when those things are in place. I miss my friends. I miss getting a good night's sleep. I miss the healthy lifestyle I created. Not having a car has isolated me and made me dependent--2 things I abhor. These were all my choices and I don't regret them, but I'm happy to be working towards a saner and healthier life.
3 weeks from today I'll be anxiously looking at the clock in anticipation of my much needed trip back to wonderful, amazing, perfect Vermont for 7 whole days!
Despite it being all too short, it was a lovely weekend. The Beechwood wasn't the wretched experience anyone expected it to be. The hike was nice. The vegetarian feast was non-existent, but the whole wheat roasted vegetable pizza was delicious. Work on Friday was fine. I read almost an entire book on Saturday (don't be too impressed--it's modern fiction and enjoyable, but ultimately a pretty light read) and was planning on finishing it, but was tempted by a wine and cheese party at Amy and Scott's. I had a hard time transitioning from solitude to a crowd, but had a really nice time nonetheless. I was also the one who made the suggestion that perhaps the Notre Dame/USC game could be on as "background" on the ginormous tv. Junkie. I'm a football junkie. Sunday I worked, caught up with the Trav on how his vacation went (must. make. a. trip. down. South. North Carolina and Tennessee looked beautiful), watched the Patriots eek out a win over the Bears--and Dad? I leapt up and yelled "YES!" when they intercepted with 2 minutes to go ensuring their win. I am my father's daughter!--and then watched the normal Sunday night Fox programming. Today is errand-running day: drop off laundry, drop off already-late-DVD, go to grocery store, run to bank, go to post office, run to Walgreens, drop off car, run home....Yeesh. I think a later night movie is a possibility and then I'm heading to bed as early as possible. Tomorrow is the last DVD Release Party of the season and I'll need all the rest I can get to survive!
I'm on week 2 of some pretty big lifestyle changes. I've been running consistently for the past 2 weeks. I've stopped eating in front of my tv (again!) and am refusing to answer the phone while I'm eating. I haven't been going out nearly as much. I've been reading more. I have made plans for Thursday night with my much beloved and much missed best friend Christina to catch up. I have made plans with my much beloved and much needed co-worker Molly for a Sunday of shopping. Though the past year wouldn't seem like it, I crave stability and structure and succeed best when those things are in place. I miss my friends. I miss getting a good night's sleep. I miss the healthy lifestyle I created. Not having a car has isolated me and made me dependent--2 things I abhor. These were all my choices and I don't regret them, but I'm happy to be working towards a saner and healthier life.
3 weeks from today I'll be anxiously looking at the clock in anticipation of my much needed trip back to wonderful, amazing, perfect Vermont for 7 whole days!
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
save a turkey. eat some tofu. or lentils. or seitan. oh forget it. eat the turkey. it tastes good if i remember correctly.
It's the night before Thanksgiving. One might think the library would be closed the night before Thanksgiving as most people would not be needing library services. I can see us being open until 5pm. I can see us being open until 6pm. But 9pm? I understand the whole taxpayer thing but are we really an essential service? Isn't it more wasteful to pay a whole bunch of people too much money to remain open for the few who absolutely positively need to check their myspace accounts?
I'm not bitter.
Quite honestly it's really not that big of a deal. My plans for tomorrow involve being conscious and presentable by 1pm to attend the Berghoef Thanksgiving Extravaganza at the Beechwood. And really that's not the main event. Post Erin being able to hang out with a huge family, a hike in the Dunes is planned. And post that I'm making my favorite vegetarian "meat"loaf, mashed potatoes, sauteed beet greens, my new vegetarian gravy and hopefully a somewhat healthy green bean casserole. And maybe some black olives from a can. Why black olives from a can? It's an Erin Davison holiday favorite food memory. I only wish I had the cutglass dish my Mom used to put them in and place directly next to my place at the table.
I love black olives from a can.
I'm not bitter.
Quite honestly it's really not that big of a deal. My plans for tomorrow involve being conscious and presentable by 1pm to attend the Berghoef Thanksgiving Extravaganza at the Beechwood. And really that's not the main event. Post Erin being able to hang out with a huge family, a hike in the Dunes is planned. And post that I'm making my favorite vegetarian "meat"loaf, mashed potatoes, sauteed beet greens, my new vegetarian gravy and hopefully a somewhat healthy green bean casserole. And maybe some black olives from a can. Why black olives from a can? It's an Erin Davison holiday favorite food memory. I only wish I had the cutglass dish my Mom used to put them in and place directly next to my place at the table.
I love black olives from a can.
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