Did that blog title make you think I am moving away, finally tired of the same thing here in Seattle and ready for something new? Well, since my 2009 goal was to finish what I start, and my 2010 goal is to do my best to feel happy and settled in Seattle- there is no way I'm moving away with only one month left in the year...must finish what I start! And actually, I really am happy to still be in Seattle. And the thought of moving away has only crept into my mind a small handful of times over the year, and only for a very brief, panicky couple of moments. So no..."time for a change" is only in reference to my blog. Which I haven't been writing on at all this year. Just wasn't feeling motivated...probably due to all that enjoying being in Seattle stuff...rather than sitting and writing about it, I was out doing it...I know, that's only excuse. I apologize for my lack of writing. BUT, I have decided on a new blog topic.
For a long time I have been wanting to write a "This I Believe", which is a feature on NPR- they have put out a few books that I have spent several hours sitting in book stores, in the oversized comfy chairs, reading (a little like stealing, since I never buy the book...but I always put it back, right where it belongs!). People write essays on a topic...something they believe in-strongly enough to write an essay about. They are really fun to read...most of them are serious, some are funny...but they all make you think about and question what you believe. I've wanted to write a "This I Believe" for a long time, but it always seems so overwhelming. I mean, how do you pick a topic...there are few things in life (or so many things...I can't even decide on that!), that at my young age (I know, I know...I'm getting old) that I can write about, without a doubt, above all else in my head, that I believe. There are definitely a couple of things that I feel that strongly about not changing- my faith in God...though I think I would have a tough time writing an essay on that, especially without sounding annoying and preachy, and probably pretty unoriginal. I also believe that strongly in my mom...I could probably write that one.
Anyway...in an attempt to come up with the right topic to write about, I realized that something else I very much believe in is being able to think about, question, and change your beliefs. Once I realized that, I decided it isn't so intimidating to write a "This I Believe" essay...because it's okay if one day I change my mind about what I wrote. That's allowed. So, my new blog topic is going to be a This I Believe. Each week I'll write about a different topic...no pressure for it to be some big, heavy something...I'm sure it will be on occasion, but with the freedom of writing on something new each week, I can write about small, silly things (not that silly things are ANY less important in life than heavy, serious things...I def believe that!).
Normally I would wait to start the new blog until January...start of the new year...but what better time to start writing about believing than the holidays? Last year, around holiday time, I wrote about how I just wasn't feeling any magic...I had seen the new Disney princess movie and felt that it was missing the magic I was hoping for; I never really got into the holidays, etc...there is no way I would have been able to write about this topic at that point. I'm not sure what the difference is this year...actually, I could name so many things that are different about this year...but whatever it is that has made the difference, I am seeing and feeling lots of magic and cheer and just general happiness...so- This I Believe begins next week!
Until then...have a stellar week!
Friday, November 26, 2010
Friday, April 9, 2010
Friday, April 9th!
Happy Friday! Doesn’t it seem like it was JUST Friday? I feel like the weeks are flying by again, which is great…I mean, c’mon, we are almost halfway through April! Though with the weather we have had this week, you wouldn’t know what month we are in, at any given moment. We have had sunshine, rain, a little snow (!), and as I look out the window right now, hail. Here are your five for the week:
1. Okay, this might gross you out a little bit. Spiders…are taking over my jeep. I know, it’s a little bit gross, and a little bit terrifying. Every year when I put the hard top back on, I find the occasional spider here and there, because the top sat outside all summer long. This year, there weren’t any…I just figured I must have done a superb job wiping it all down. Then, about two weeks ago, I noticed a little clump of tiny little movers in the back corner…I went in for a closer look, and realized they were baby spiders. Wonderful. So I grabbed a stick, did my best to hook them and their web onto the stick and put them outside. Then I noticed a little white sack up in the corner of the jeep, so I grabbed another stick and scraped it off…when I did that, it broke open and a bunch of little baby spiders fell out (still attached by their webs)…I tried to gather as many up as I could and put them outside…knowing there would probably still be a couple stragglers. Well, on Wednesday, I noticed another little group of them up in the back corner. So, once again, I climbed back there and tried to nicely get them outside…and then noticed there were many more than I anticipated. They were pretty much all over the back of the jeep…kicking it on my emergency kit, around my toolbox, on the back seat. Sigh…so I think I’m going to have to put my good karma at risk and bug bomb the car…yuck.
2. I listened to a great “Stuff You Should Know” podcast…possibly my favorite one yet (though I did very much enjoy “what is a hangover” as well) titled, “How To Survive a Plane Crash”. While I fly fairly frequently, and wouldn’t necessarily say I’m afraid of flying, I definitely am not comfortable with it. So yes, please, tell me how to survive a plane crash. Well, turns out, of all the plane crashes that have happened- 90% of the people survive. What?! It’s because the news really only covers the big, terrible crashes. And most crashes happen during take off and landing, so they aren’t so dramatic. But there’s more…of the crashes that have happened from way up at 30,000 feet, 50% of people survived. That’s fairly reassuring. People always say you are way more likely to get in a car accident than a plane accident, but that never made me feel better, because on the chance you WERE in a plane accident, you were probably a goner…but turns out, not so. A few helpful hints to survival: when you get on the plane, count the number of seats between you and the exit. There is a good chance you will be in the dark or even underwater and you won’t be able to see the exit sign, but you can feel the number of seats. Also, people sitting in the back have a better chance of survival (bummer, I way prefer the front). Wear clothing that covers your body- long sleeves, long pants, tennis shoes, in case of fire. Ummm, what else…that’s all I currently remember- oh, don’t drink alcohol…so there you go…no more fear of flying.
3. I’ve never been an avid American Idol viewer, but somehow I seem to have kept up on this particular season. And there are actually a few of the contestants that I really like. While I don’t think he’ll win the show, or even be around to the very end, I like Andrew Garcia…there is a great video of him on YouTube doing Straight Up…he reminds me of a Jason Mraz when he covers songs…makes them fun with his guitar (which, by the way, my three favs all play guitar…I really like the addition of instruments for the performers). I really like Crystal Bowersox…she performs and you aren’t nervous about her messing up or if she will pick the wrong song…she is great. She did a Janis Joplin song- so great. She has amazing confidence as a performer. But my very fav, and who I’d love to see win, is Lee Dewyze. He has this kind of shy, unsure of himself, nervous feeling each week…and then he goes out and plays his guitar and belts it out…very Ray Lamontagne-ish. Really, really like him.
4. Check out www.dishkarma.com and fill in your ultimate meal…your very favorite restaurant selections for each of the course categories…and check out what other people have picked for their ultimate meals…fun concept…but I warn you, as soon as you log on to enter in your ultimate meal (go do it right now!), your mind will go blank…all those amazing dishes you wish you could enjoy everyday- completely out the window. So think about it ahead of time….and now, go enter them in!
5. I gave up reading the Devil in the White City- for the moment (it was over due at the library), and I just felt like it was such an effort to read. But I got a little bit ambitious with my library holds- and all three became available at the same time…no idea how I will get through them in my three week check out time…but I’ll be doing a lot of reading this weekend. Yesterday I started, and am about halfway through The Sun Also Rises, by Hemingway…I have been wanting to read something of his for a long while, and I am really enjoying it- totally accessible and easy to read. Next, I am going to tackle a long-time-to-read-but-totally-intimidated book- the Brothers Karamozov…I’m afraid I won’t get through it, but I’m going to try my hardest. And then, I have had a couple of people recommend the Count of Monte Cristo..it is unbelievably long, but everyone I’ve talked to that read it, loved it…so I don’t think it will be tough, just long.
Alright…have a great weekend!
1. Okay, this might gross you out a little bit. Spiders…are taking over my jeep. I know, it’s a little bit gross, and a little bit terrifying. Every year when I put the hard top back on, I find the occasional spider here and there, because the top sat outside all summer long. This year, there weren’t any…I just figured I must have done a superb job wiping it all down. Then, about two weeks ago, I noticed a little clump of tiny little movers in the back corner…I went in for a closer look, and realized they were baby spiders. Wonderful. So I grabbed a stick, did my best to hook them and their web onto the stick and put them outside. Then I noticed a little white sack up in the corner of the jeep, so I grabbed another stick and scraped it off…when I did that, it broke open and a bunch of little baby spiders fell out (still attached by their webs)…I tried to gather as many up as I could and put them outside…knowing there would probably still be a couple stragglers. Well, on Wednesday, I noticed another little group of them up in the back corner. So, once again, I climbed back there and tried to nicely get them outside…and then noticed there were many more than I anticipated. They were pretty much all over the back of the jeep…kicking it on my emergency kit, around my toolbox, on the back seat. Sigh…so I think I’m going to have to put my good karma at risk and bug bomb the car…yuck.
2. I listened to a great “Stuff You Should Know” podcast…possibly my favorite one yet (though I did very much enjoy “what is a hangover” as well) titled, “How To Survive a Plane Crash”. While I fly fairly frequently, and wouldn’t necessarily say I’m afraid of flying, I definitely am not comfortable with it. So yes, please, tell me how to survive a plane crash. Well, turns out, of all the plane crashes that have happened- 90% of the people survive. What?! It’s because the news really only covers the big, terrible crashes. And most crashes happen during take off and landing, so they aren’t so dramatic. But there’s more…of the crashes that have happened from way up at 30,000 feet, 50% of people survived. That’s fairly reassuring. People always say you are way more likely to get in a car accident than a plane accident, but that never made me feel better, because on the chance you WERE in a plane accident, you were probably a goner…but turns out, not so. A few helpful hints to survival: when you get on the plane, count the number of seats between you and the exit. There is a good chance you will be in the dark or even underwater and you won’t be able to see the exit sign, but you can feel the number of seats. Also, people sitting in the back have a better chance of survival (bummer, I way prefer the front). Wear clothing that covers your body- long sleeves, long pants, tennis shoes, in case of fire. Ummm, what else…that’s all I currently remember- oh, don’t drink alcohol…so there you go…no more fear of flying.
3. I’ve never been an avid American Idol viewer, but somehow I seem to have kept up on this particular season. And there are actually a few of the contestants that I really like. While I don’t think he’ll win the show, or even be around to the very end, I like Andrew Garcia…there is a great video of him on YouTube doing Straight Up…he reminds me of a Jason Mraz when he covers songs…makes them fun with his guitar (which, by the way, my three favs all play guitar…I really like the addition of instruments for the performers). I really like Crystal Bowersox…she performs and you aren’t nervous about her messing up or if she will pick the wrong song…she is great. She did a Janis Joplin song- so great. She has amazing confidence as a performer. But my very fav, and who I’d love to see win, is Lee Dewyze. He has this kind of shy, unsure of himself, nervous feeling each week…and then he goes out and plays his guitar and belts it out…very Ray Lamontagne-ish. Really, really like him.
4. Check out www.dishkarma.com and fill in your ultimate meal…your very favorite restaurant selections for each of the course categories…and check out what other people have picked for their ultimate meals…fun concept…but I warn you, as soon as you log on to enter in your ultimate meal (go do it right now!), your mind will go blank…all those amazing dishes you wish you could enjoy everyday- completely out the window. So think about it ahead of time….and now, go enter them in!
5. I gave up reading the Devil in the White City- for the moment (it was over due at the library), and I just felt like it was such an effort to read. But I got a little bit ambitious with my library holds- and all three became available at the same time…no idea how I will get through them in my three week check out time…but I’ll be doing a lot of reading this weekend. Yesterday I started, and am about halfway through The Sun Also Rises, by Hemingway…I have been wanting to read something of his for a long while, and I am really enjoying it- totally accessible and easy to read. Next, I am going to tackle a long-time-to-read-but-totally-intimidated book- the Brothers Karamozov…I’m afraid I won’t get through it, but I’m going to try my hardest. And then, I have had a couple of people recommend the Count of Monte Cristo..it is unbelievably long, but everyone I’ve talked to that read it, loved it…so I don’t think it will be tough, just long.
Alright…have a great weekend!
Friday, April 2, 2010
Happy Easter weekend
Look at me go…two weeks in a row. Here are the five for this week:
1. Did you hear that the Seattle fireworks show was cancelled for this year because, as hard as One Reel worked, they couldn’t find a sponsor? Did you hear how the community has come together to save it? Yesterday, Dave Ross challenged local businesses- with the help of Tom Douglas’ initial $5000 donation, to raise money to save the show. Now, that’s a hefty challenge…we need to raise $500,000 to put on the show (whoa!)…But Starbucks and Microsoft each offered up $125,000 if the rest of the community could raise the other $250,000. And the donations have been rolling in…last I checked, we were $14,500 short…which I think is unbelievable! Here is a link to the businesses that have donated: http://mynorthwest.com/?nid=75&sid=304928 . Very cool to see the community coming together to save a tradition!
2. The Marty Riemer Show is back! Well, for a half hour each day, on your computer anyway. No, they aren’t back at the radio station. But, Marty and Jodi have created a half hour long webcast/podcast (if you are on live, you can actually watch, otherwise you can download the segment, just like any other podcast), Monday-Friday, 9:30-10am. Yesterday was the debut…and it was sooo great to hear them back at it again. It is very similar to a radio show- they are just chatting it up, joking around, talking about news, interviewing guests, etc…but for a very brief 30 minutes. Yesterday they had Chris Mays, the creator and previous Program Director for The Mountain on the show. She did a little music segment- introducing some new music she is digging (I never doubt her music recommendations- she is amazing!). I’m excited to have that 30 minutes at my desk each morning to listen to the show, laughing out loud (resulting in funny looks from my co-workers). You can check it out at: www.martyriemer.com
3. I have been a super lame live music girl this week. I had three shows on my calendar and didn’t go to any of them. I was planning to go to the special added Round on Tuesday, at Neumos. But I am housesitting in West Seattle and after having gone back and forth two full times that day already, I just didn’t have the energy for another trip back into the city. I love West Seattle, but I don’t think I could live out there. Then Wednesday John Mayer was in town. I had a REAL tough time not going to that show…I just couldn’t justify paying a huge chunk of money (those fees KILL me) for an arena show…sigh. But I love John Mayer so…(I know, I know…I promise, I have tried to hate him…I just can’t do it). Luckily I had a couple of long distance pals to chat with that evening to keep my mind off the great show I was missing…though I couldn’t escape it the next day on facebook. And then last night, Patty Griffin was in town. And I opted out of her show (those darn ticket fees), but I am sure she will be back for one of the fun outdoor summer shows later this year (fingers crossed). Hopefully my concert going lameness will not carry over to next week- as I have a Brandi Carlile show on Tuesday.
4. Do you get today off from work? Good Friday? It has never occurred to me that people get this day off…I don’t think I have ever worked anywhere that has taken the day off. Though really, we SHOULD get a day off for Easter. Easter is always on a Sunday, so we don’t…but even when Christmas falls on a weekend, we get an extra work day off. I feel like Christmas and Easter are the same level of holiday, right? Christian holiday made commercial? I hadn’t thought about it until people were complaining on facebook this morning (what would I do without facebook to keep me updated?) about having to be at work. And then a notice went out at my work that we could leave at 3 today. So, is it a holiday? Should parking be free today? Meanwhile, my teacher mom has been on Spring Break this week, and has been texting me from her local wine bar, as she kicks back with some wine and cheese and a book. Sounds lovely!
5. Last little bit of news…ummm, the health care reform passed! I have always been on board with having health care for everyone, just on principle and feeling like it is important to take care of people, etc. But not really ever getting really into what that means and how it will affect me or people around me. Now that I’m working in HR, and have been helping out our Benefits department quite a bit, I have been learning more about it. They had me sit in on a conference call about how the new health care plan will affect our insurance, and basically just broke down what it means and when certain aspects will kick in. REALLY interesting, and I feel like I know 100x more than I did before. Even after learning more about it, and seeing how it will affect MY own wallet, I still feel like it is important. I am certainly willing to pitch in more to give families the opportunity to see a doctor for more than an emergency. I do think you should develop a good relationship with your doctor now though, because there is going to be a huge increase in patients and reduction in time doctors have with patients.
Alright…I will leave you with that. Have a great weekend- Happy Easter and Passover! Oh, and during the time I wrote this blog, the local businesses of Seattle have reached their goal, and the fireworks show is officially back on!
1. Did you hear that the Seattle fireworks show was cancelled for this year because, as hard as One Reel worked, they couldn’t find a sponsor? Did you hear how the community has come together to save it? Yesterday, Dave Ross challenged local businesses- with the help of Tom Douglas’ initial $5000 donation, to raise money to save the show. Now, that’s a hefty challenge…we need to raise $500,000 to put on the show (whoa!)…But Starbucks and Microsoft each offered up $125,000 if the rest of the community could raise the other $250,000. And the donations have been rolling in…last I checked, we were $14,500 short…which I think is unbelievable! Here is a link to the businesses that have donated: http://mynorthwest.com/?nid=75&sid=304928 . Very cool to see the community coming together to save a tradition!
2. The Marty Riemer Show is back! Well, for a half hour each day, on your computer anyway. No, they aren’t back at the radio station. But, Marty and Jodi have created a half hour long webcast/podcast (if you are on live, you can actually watch, otherwise you can download the segment, just like any other podcast), Monday-Friday, 9:30-10am. Yesterday was the debut…and it was sooo great to hear them back at it again. It is very similar to a radio show- they are just chatting it up, joking around, talking about news, interviewing guests, etc…but for a very brief 30 minutes. Yesterday they had Chris Mays, the creator and previous Program Director for The Mountain on the show. She did a little music segment- introducing some new music she is digging (I never doubt her music recommendations- she is amazing!). I’m excited to have that 30 minutes at my desk each morning to listen to the show, laughing out loud (resulting in funny looks from my co-workers). You can check it out at: www.martyriemer.com
3. I have been a super lame live music girl this week. I had three shows on my calendar and didn’t go to any of them. I was planning to go to the special added Round on Tuesday, at Neumos. But I am housesitting in West Seattle and after having gone back and forth two full times that day already, I just didn’t have the energy for another trip back into the city. I love West Seattle, but I don’t think I could live out there. Then Wednesday John Mayer was in town. I had a REAL tough time not going to that show…I just couldn’t justify paying a huge chunk of money (those fees KILL me) for an arena show…sigh. But I love John Mayer so…(I know, I know…I promise, I have tried to hate him…I just can’t do it). Luckily I had a couple of long distance pals to chat with that evening to keep my mind off the great show I was missing…though I couldn’t escape it the next day on facebook. And then last night, Patty Griffin was in town. And I opted out of her show (those darn ticket fees), but I am sure she will be back for one of the fun outdoor summer shows later this year (fingers crossed). Hopefully my concert going lameness will not carry over to next week- as I have a Brandi Carlile show on Tuesday.
4. Do you get today off from work? Good Friday? It has never occurred to me that people get this day off…I don’t think I have ever worked anywhere that has taken the day off. Though really, we SHOULD get a day off for Easter. Easter is always on a Sunday, so we don’t…but even when Christmas falls on a weekend, we get an extra work day off. I feel like Christmas and Easter are the same level of holiday, right? Christian holiday made commercial? I hadn’t thought about it until people were complaining on facebook this morning (what would I do without facebook to keep me updated?) about having to be at work. And then a notice went out at my work that we could leave at 3 today. So, is it a holiday? Should parking be free today? Meanwhile, my teacher mom has been on Spring Break this week, and has been texting me from her local wine bar, as she kicks back with some wine and cheese and a book. Sounds lovely!
5. Last little bit of news…ummm, the health care reform passed! I have always been on board with having health care for everyone, just on principle and feeling like it is important to take care of people, etc. But not really ever getting really into what that means and how it will affect me or people around me. Now that I’m working in HR, and have been helping out our Benefits department quite a bit, I have been learning more about it. They had me sit in on a conference call about how the new health care plan will affect our insurance, and basically just broke down what it means and when certain aspects will kick in. REALLY interesting, and I feel like I know 100x more than I did before. Even after learning more about it, and seeing how it will affect MY own wallet, I still feel like it is important. I am certainly willing to pitch in more to give families the opportunity to see a doctor for more than an emergency. I do think you should develop a good relationship with your doctor now though, because there is going to be a huge increase in patients and reduction in time doctors have with patients.
Alright…I will leave you with that. Have a great weekend- Happy Easter and Passover! Oh, and during the time I wrote this blog, the local businesses of Seattle have reached their goal, and the fireworks show is officially back on!
Friday, March 26, 2010
More than Five on Friday
Oh my gosh…I am the worst blog writer of 2010. Clearly, the Sunday blog switch has not worked out (Sundays, I have realized, aren’t for scheduled activity…they are for going where the day takes you)…so perhaps I won’t make any more blog writing promises. I’ll just try to write. Since it has been awhile, there is much to catch up on…here are your More than Five on Friday:
1. First of all, I just want to say- I am really happy. I planned for 2010 to be a great year, and thus far, it hasn’t disappointed. I know a lot of it has to do with my new job…and not necessarily the JOB itself, but that it has put me in a comfortable place…I feel settled. I don’t have that urge to pick up and move away. And I know (as much as I hate to admit) it also has something to do with not having to dig coins out of drawers and pockets to buy myself a coffee as payday approaches…I am, by no means, making lots of money- AT ALL- but I’m also not living paycheck to paycheck…which always feels a little more comfortable. I’ve never thought the rain and grey and gloom of Seattle affected me, but I do think the amazing weather we have had this year has helped with the sunny disposition. The flowers bloomed early, the cherry blossoms are just SO Spring-y and hopeful…I just walk outside and it is near impossible not to appreciate being here. And as a side note- NO, my silly happiness has nothing to do with a boy…I’m not dating anyone (people keep asking me that)- I’m just happy. :)
2. Back in January (2 months ago…whoa!), my mom and I went to the Guiding Lights conference again. This is a super inspiring weekend focused on creativity and mentoring. This year they did something a little different and had a focus for the weekend, which was the Opportunity Gap. While I think I liked the old format a little better, where there were more topics, I do think the opportunity gap is a huge issue that needs to be addressed. I know I have said this before, but it is just SO inspiring to be in a room with a hundreds of people focused on improving the lives and opportunities of the youth in their communities. And there is always a group of youth ambassadors- middle school and high school kids who are committed to making a difference- that are just so amazing. I mean, when I was in high school, I was worried about which socks to wear for my basketball game that night…these kids are already focusing their sights on improving the world…think of what they will accomplish with the help of committed mentors…amazing
3. I just finished our latest book club book- Girl With the Dragon Tattoo. And I read it on my mom’s new kindle. While I enjoyed reading the book- it is a mystery with a few different side stories- keeps you interested, some fascinating characters, enjoyed the writing style…I don’t think I would recommend it because I HATED the end. I mean, I tend to have a tough time with book endings in general, because if it ends happy then it isn’t realistic, if it ends sad then you don’t feel the closure you need…but this ending was TERRIBLE. Things didn’t get wrapped up, no resolution with the characters…like, I actually thought perhaps the kindle hadn’t finished downloading the book and there was more. Nope. BUT, I did get my first use of the Kindle, which I have been curious about. I have mixed feelings about it. On one hand, soooo convenient…great for reading on the bus, taking to work and reading at lunch…it’s just so easy. However- what I didn’t like about it, and would, very likely, keep me from using it- is not being able to flip back to past pages. I mean, you CAN go to previous pages…but you can’t easily flip back to chapter 3 where that one character was first introduced and you can’t remember how they were related to that other character, and it is kind of important in following the story. Or when you have a giant family, to where the author actually includes a diagram and you’d like to be able to reference that diagram as you read. I didn’t realize how much I do that when I read, until using the Kindle.
4. With my new little extra cash flow, I have been going to see more live music…I have always had a hard time BUYING tickets to shows since I went so long getting free tickets…but, the time has come where I actually need to make the purchase. Recently, I saw We Were Promised Jet Packs…from Scotland, they were fun- would totally recommend seeing them, although the sound at Neumos was not stellar…opening at that show was the Lonely Forest, a local band which I have been hearing about for awhile, but hadn’t actually seen yet. Really liked them as well. I went with my pal to the End’s little private performance with Temper Trap at the new Hard Rock…ran into lots of friends, which is always a fun surprise. Saw a local SXSW send off party with…a hip hop group that I can’t remember, Hey Marseilles and Visqueen. Again, I had been hearing about Visqueen for a looong time, but hadn’t ever managed to see them, so was looking forward to that. They were different than I expected…The lead singer is hilarious and great, and has a really beautiful voice- which was unexpected for me (I didn’t imagine her as having a terrible voice, but more rock, I guess). And I have seen Hey Marseilles a couple of times in the last few months and REALLY enjoy them. Lots of energy, fun instruments, great lyrics, and adorable boys…def my latest fav! Ian and the band had a bit of send off show at the Triple Door, as he and Alisa prepare to head out for their three-month cross-country duo tour…if you are in another city, look them up and go to the show…they’d very much appreciate it. I feel like there has been other shows…hmmm
5. Well Lent has arrived…and is nearly over…Easter is just around the corner. This year I gave up sweets, per the usual, and gave up TV (well, not entirely…I was allowed to watch 1 hour a day)…which I’m hoping to continue post-Lent. It is so easy to come home from work and just collapse on the couch and turn the brain off. Since Lent started, I’ve been doing a ton more reading, have been spending more time outside (thanks to the sunshine), and enjoying hanging out and catching up with pals. I do have to admit, I didn’t count the NCAA tournament as TV time…I spent a little bit of my time in Chicago and pretty much all the time in Europe without TV, and it is so nice to have to use your brain and find activities…you really don’t miss the TV at all. There are definitely certain shows that I wouldn’t want to miss (Modern Family…c’mon!) which is why the hour a day was nice…I could make the decision of which shows to watch each week. I am sort of cheating today on my no sweets rule…Mom and I are going to Teatro Zinzanni tonight, and I am NOT skipping a Tom Douglas dessert…just isn’t happening. So I am giving up my free Sunday (I’m Catholic…Sundays don’t count during Lent!) for sweets today. It’s sort of fair.
6. Have had a fun couple of race events lately…ran the St Paddy’s Day Dash for the first time in a few years…and it was SO fun! I was thinking it was a 5k, which is no big deal, but it ended up being a 4 miler, which is fine, but a little above my normal 2.8 miles around Greenlake run I’ve been doing…and I woke up with a cold the day before…boo…but I ended up with a pretty decent time (I forgot that I get a little competitive with myself for these times events) and enjoyed hanging out with some new friends…I really want to sign up for some more fun runs! Also did the Big Climb for Leukemia, up the Columbia tower…69 flights to the top…a little bit of hell. I’ve done this event quite a few times, and know that it is really hard, but you always forget just how miserable it is until you are actually doing it…about floor 10- legs are already exhausted, throat is burning, side is throbbing…and you still have 59 more flights to go…gulp. But it is over quick…I finished around 16 minutes, and the recovery happens pretty fast, and all of a sudden you think, “that wasn’t so bad…I could probably do it again.”
7. I started downloading and listening to a couple of podcasts lately. I always liked the idea of the podcast, but never felt like I had time to listen- or the RIGHT time to listen, I guess…but, with the new job…I do a fair amount of data entry and filing…perfect for podcast listening. Obviously, This American Life…so great…always look forward to the weekly update…but my current obsession is Stuff You Should Know. I downloaded a bunch of their old ones, and then get their new addition each week. It’s two normal (funny) guys chatting with each other about random people, ideas, scientific studies, diseases, etc…I mean, these podcasts are about EVERYTHING. And it is mostly stuff you feel like you SHOULD know..you’ve heard it, but don’t really know the details and are afraid to admit your ignorance. Recently, I have listened to “What are hangovers, really?”, “Who were the Vikings?”, “How bounty hunters work”, “Why are the honeybees disappearing?”, “How the sun works”. I enjoy sharing tidbits of information to my coworkers throughout the day…and I’m sure all my newfound knowledge will be helpful at the next trivia night.
8. Finally, the NCAA tournament. Oh man…I have been more into this year than usual (I always keep up on the bracket and watch a few games here and there)…the upsets have made it so exciting! I keep ESPN up on my computer at work, so I can follow the scores in real time, and then race myself home to turn them on TV (since they don’t count for Lent), or if it’s really nice out and I feel guilty about sitting on the couch watching basketball, I waltz my way down the hill in Fremont to a bar and enjoy the games somewhere else. Love it! Watching U.W. has been awesome…of course, until the sloppy, ugly game they played last night…but it’s always more exciting when you have your home team to root for, especially when they are an underdog and are playing well. So fun.
Okay…that about catches you up (if you even got through the whole thing…sorry)…I’m not sure when the next entry will appear…but hopefully a tad more regularly. Have a fantastic weekend!
1. First of all, I just want to say- I am really happy. I planned for 2010 to be a great year, and thus far, it hasn’t disappointed. I know a lot of it has to do with my new job…and not necessarily the JOB itself, but that it has put me in a comfortable place…I feel settled. I don’t have that urge to pick up and move away. And I know (as much as I hate to admit) it also has something to do with not having to dig coins out of drawers and pockets to buy myself a coffee as payday approaches…I am, by no means, making lots of money- AT ALL- but I’m also not living paycheck to paycheck…which always feels a little more comfortable. I’ve never thought the rain and grey and gloom of Seattle affected me, but I do think the amazing weather we have had this year has helped with the sunny disposition. The flowers bloomed early, the cherry blossoms are just SO Spring-y and hopeful…I just walk outside and it is near impossible not to appreciate being here. And as a side note- NO, my silly happiness has nothing to do with a boy…I’m not dating anyone (people keep asking me that)- I’m just happy. :)
2. Back in January (2 months ago…whoa!), my mom and I went to the Guiding Lights conference again. This is a super inspiring weekend focused on creativity and mentoring. This year they did something a little different and had a focus for the weekend, which was the Opportunity Gap. While I think I liked the old format a little better, where there were more topics, I do think the opportunity gap is a huge issue that needs to be addressed. I know I have said this before, but it is just SO inspiring to be in a room with a hundreds of people focused on improving the lives and opportunities of the youth in their communities. And there is always a group of youth ambassadors- middle school and high school kids who are committed to making a difference- that are just so amazing. I mean, when I was in high school, I was worried about which socks to wear for my basketball game that night…these kids are already focusing their sights on improving the world…think of what they will accomplish with the help of committed mentors…amazing
3. I just finished our latest book club book- Girl With the Dragon Tattoo. And I read it on my mom’s new kindle. While I enjoyed reading the book- it is a mystery with a few different side stories- keeps you interested, some fascinating characters, enjoyed the writing style…I don’t think I would recommend it because I HATED the end. I mean, I tend to have a tough time with book endings in general, because if it ends happy then it isn’t realistic, if it ends sad then you don’t feel the closure you need…but this ending was TERRIBLE. Things didn’t get wrapped up, no resolution with the characters…like, I actually thought perhaps the kindle hadn’t finished downloading the book and there was more. Nope. BUT, I did get my first use of the Kindle, which I have been curious about. I have mixed feelings about it. On one hand, soooo convenient…great for reading on the bus, taking to work and reading at lunch…it’s just so easy. However- what I didn’t like about it, and would, very likely, keep me from using it- is not being able to flip back to past pages. I mean, you CAN go to previous pages…but you can’t easily flip back to chapter 3 where that one character was first introduced and you can’t remember how they were related to that other character, and it is kind of important in following the story. Or when you have a giant family, to where the author actually includes a diagram and you’d like to be able to reference that diagram as you read. I didn’t realize how much I do that when I read, until using the Kindle.
4. With my new little extra cash flow, I have been going to see more live music…I have always had a hard time BUYING tickets to shows since I went so long getting free tickets…but, the time has come where I actually need to make the purchase. Recently, I saw We Were Promised Jet Packs…from Scotland, they were fun- would totally recommend seeing them, although the sound at Neumos was not stellar…opening at that show was the Lonely Forest, a local band which I have been hearing about for awhile, but hadn’t actually seen yet. Really liked them as well. I went with my pal to the End’s little private performance with Temper Trap at the new Hard Rock…ran into lots of friends, which is always a fun surprise. Saw a local SXSW send off party with…a hip hop group that I can’t remember, Hey Marseilles and Visqueen. Again, I had been hearing about Visqueen for a looong time, but hadn’t ever managed to see them, so was looking forward to that. They were different than I expected…The lead singer is hilarious and great, and has a really beautiful voice- which was unexpected for me (I didn’t imagine her as having a terrible voice, but more rock, I guess). And I have seen Hey Marseilles a couple of times in the last few months and REALLY enjoy them. Lots of energy, fun instruments, great lyrics, and adorable boys…def my latest fav! Ian and the band had a bit of send off show at the Triple Door, as he and Alisa prepare to head out for their three-month cross-country duo tour…if you are in another city, look them up and go to the show…they’d very much appreciate it. I feel like there has been other shows…hmmm
5. Well Lent has arrived…and is nearly over…Easter is just around the corner. This year I gave up sweets, per the usual, and gave up TV (well, not entirely…I was allowed to watch 1 hour a day)…which I’m hoping to continue post-Lent. It is so easy to come home from work and just collapse on the couch and turn the brain off. Since Lent started, I’ve been doing a ton more reading, have been spending more time outside (thanks to the sunshine), and enjoying hanging out and catching up with pals. I do have to admit, I didn’t count the NCAA tournament as TV time…I spent a little bit of my time in Chicago and pretty much all the time in Europe without TV, and it is so nice to have to use your brain and find activities…you really don’t miss the TV at all. There are definitely certain shows that I wouldn’t want to miss (Modern Family…c’mon!) which is why the hour a day was nice…I could make the decision of which shows to watch each week. I am sort of cheating today on my no sweets rule…Mom and I are going to Teatro Zinzanni tonight, and I am NOT skipping a Tom Douglas dessert…just isn’t happening. So I am giving up my free Sunday (I’m Catholic…Sundays don’t count during Lent!) for sweets today. It’s sort of fair.
6. Have had a fun couple of race events lately…ran the St Paddy’s Day Dash for the first time in a few years…and it was SO fun! I was thinking it was a 5k, which is no big deal, but it ended up being a 4 miler, which is fine, but a little above my normal 2.8 miles around Greenlake run I’ve been doing…and I woke up with a cold the day before…boo…but I ended up with a pretty decent time (I forgot that I get a little competitive with myself for these times events) and enjoyed hanging out with some new friends…I really want to sign up for some more fun runs! Also did the Big Climb for Leukemia, up the Columbia tower…69 flights to the top…a little bit of hell. I’ve done this event quite a few times, and know that it is really hard, but you always forget just how miserable it is until you are actually doing it…about floor 10- legs are already exhausted, throat is burning, side is throbbing…and you still have 59 more flights to go…gulp. But it is over quick…I finished around 16 minutes, and the recovery happens pretty fast, and all of a sudden you think, “that wasn’t so bad…I could probably do it again.”
7. I started downloading and listening to a couple of podcasts lately. I always liked the idea of the podcast, but never felt like I had time to listen- or the RIGHT time to listen, I guess…but, with the new job…I do a fair amount of data entry and filing…perfect for podcast listening. Obviously, This American Life…so great…always look forward to the weekly update…but my current obsession is Stuff You Should Know. I downloaded a bunch of their old ones, and then get their new addition each week. It’s two normal (funny) guys chatting with each other about random people, ideas, scientific studies, diseases, etc…I mean, these podcasts are about EVERYTHING. And it is mostly stuff you feel like you SHOULD know..you’ve heard it, but don’t really know the details and are afraid to admit your ignorance. Recently, I have listened to “What are hangovers, really?”, “Who were the Vikings?”, “How bounty hunters work”, “Why are the honeybees disappearing?”, “How the sun works”. I enjoy sharing tidbits of information to my coworkers throughout the day…and I’m sure all my newfound knowledge will be helpful at the next trivia night.
8. Finally, the NCAA tournament. Oh man…I have been more into this year than usual (I always keep up on the bracket and watch a few games here and there)…the upsets have made it so exciting! I keep ESPN up on my computer at work, so I can follow the scores in real time, and then race myself home to turn them on TV (since they don’t count for Lent), or if it’s really nice out and I feel guilty about sitting on the couch watching basketball, I waltz my way down the hill in Fremont to a bar and enjoy the games somewhere else. Love it! Watching U.W. has been awesome…of course, until the sloppy, ugly game they played last night…but it’s always more exciting when you have your home team to root for, especially when they are an underdog and are playing well. So fun.
Okay…that about catches you up (if you even got through the whole thing…sorry)…I’m not sure when the next entry will appear…but hopefully a tad more regularly. Have a fantastic weekend!
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Friday Five, First Sunday Edition
Well here is the first attempt at Sunday blogging. I guess I didn't make it in time for you to read while sipping coffee in a cozy cafe...but perhaps the Monday morning work blues will be a good time. I still need a new name for the blog...
1. The new job. Yep, yep...I am three weeks into the new job at Tommy Bahama. Without going into much detail (I definitely had to sign something about not discussing work stuff on the internet), I'll just say, I'm very happy to be here. The company is great, the people I work with are really nice, the schedule is pretty awesome (I mean really, anything beats waking up at 3:30 in the morning, as far as schedules go). Aside from the occasional paper cut, life is pretty darn good on the work front. And boy is my family excited for the 30 day window to be over and for me to be able to use my discount to buy TB stuff!
2. Went to a great concert on Tuesday night...Alberta Cross. My friend Jessica had me listen to their EP when I was in Princeton last year, and I really liked it, and have turned it on from time to time since then...one of their songs made it onto my "Reminds Me of 2009" mix...but they weren't touring much, and they kinda left my radar. Luckily, my roommate emailed me at work and mentioned something about liking Alberta Cross, blah, blah...turned out they were playing THAT NIGHT, and I almost missed the show. Gasp. But didn't. Went...they definitely still look like they haven't been around for long...they need more experience, and I kind of felt like they were putting on a show- not in a musical sense, but in a kind of immature sort of way. Like, the clothes they were wearing and the way they danced while they played were more of a focus than the actual music. Which is too bad, because the music is super awesome. They'll grow up...and I think they'll be big...check em out. Albertacross.net
3. Well, Jersey Shore has sadly, come to an end. At least this season has...because luckily, they will be back next year for another summer of GTL (gym, tan, laundry...duh).How am I ever going to fill my time now that the show is over...oh, not to worry, the DVR is nearly full of other random, crap tv. Phew. And Grey's Anatomy is back on...Lost is starting soon...and OH, the next season of Friday Night Lights...so, so soon...I can't wait! I got the first season of FNL for Christmas, and I have been watching an episode or two (or four) here and there...I know I've said it before...but really, it's so good. And I'd really like to watch the first three seasons again with someone who hasn't watched it before...anyone? Anyone? C'mon.
4. Started and finished a kids book series. The Underland Chronicles. I was housesitting for a family I babysit for, and was looking through the kids' books, found the first three. I remembered the mom saying she liked this particular series, so I started reading them, and went through the first three books in about a week. They didn't own the last two, so I checked them out at the library. Really, really liked the series. Gregor is a 10-year old boy who follows his two yr old sister down a chute in their laundry room that leads to the Underland. A whole world of people and creatures that live miles underground. There is much turmoil and war in the Underland, and the people have been waiting for a warrior- because of a prophecy left to them by the founder of the Underland- and they decide Gregor is the one. So he goes through all kinds of adventure, creates realtionships, learns valuable lessons about life, etc...with the people, rats (gnawers), bats (flyers), mice (nibblers), cockroaches (crawlers), spiders (spinners), and others...great creation of another world by the author, and really great characters. I hope she is planning to write more!
5. I know you have been wondering, what about the Adventurer's Club...what have you crazy kids been up to lately? Not to worry, we are still around and hanging out. We haven't been very adventurous lately...at least not out in the world...BUT, we have been quite adventurous in the board game arena. Oh yeah...we have had several board game night get togethers. There is usually a round of taboo involved, but we have learned several new games...Willow likes to explore the game section at goodwill. Recently she found a game- Jungle Speed- but since she got the game at Goodwill, the directions were in French. They looked up instructions on wikipedia...so we had it mostly figured out, though questions did come up as we went, and Willow would attempt to read what she thought to be the answer, in French. I've been trying to make an effort to go out more- be more social, meet new people, discover new places, etc...but game night is always my favorite...so much laughing.
Alright...that's all for now...have a super productive week...see you again on Sunday.
Currently Listening to: Will Hoge, Blackbird on a Lonely Wire
1. The new job. Yep, yep...I am three weeks into the new job at Tommy Bahama. Without going into much detail (I definitely had to sign something about not discussing work stuff on the internet), I'll just say, I'm very happy to be here. The company is great, the people I work with are really nice, the schedule is pretty awesome (I mean really, anything beats waking up at 3:30 in the morning, as far as schedules go). Aside from the occasional paper cut, life is pretty darn good on the work front. And boy is my family excited for the 30 day window to be over and for me to be able to use my discount to buy TB stuff!
2. Went to a great concert on Tuesday night...Alberta Cross. My friend Jessica had me listen to their EP when I was in Princeton last year, and I really liked it, and have turned it on from time to time since then...one of their songs made it onto my "Reminds Me of 2009" mix...but they weren't touring much, and they kinda left my radar. Luckily, my roommate emailed me at work and mentioned something about liking Alberta Cross, blah, blah...turned out they were playing THAT NIGHT, and I almost missed the show. Gasp. But didn't. Went...they definitely still look like they haven't been around for long...they need more experience, and I kind of felt like they were putting on a show- not in a musical sense, but in a kind of immature sort of way. Like, the clothes they were wearing and the way they danced while they played were more of a focus than the actual music. Which is too bad, because the music is super awesome. They'll grow up...and I think they'll be big...check em out. Albertacross.net
3. Well, Jersey Shore has sadly, come to an end. At least this season has...because luckily, they will be back next year for another summer of GTL (gym, tan, laundry...duh).How am I ever going to fill my time now that the show is over...oh, not to worry, the DVR is nearly full of other random, crap tv. Phew. And Grey's Anatomy is back on...Lost is starting soon...and OH, the next season of Friday Night Lights...so, so soon...I can't wait! I got the first season of FNL for Christmas, and I have been watching an episode or two (or four) here and there...I know I've said it before...but really, it's so good. And I'd really like to watch the first three seasons again with someone who hasn't watched it before...anyone? Anyone? C'mon.
4. Started and finished a kids book series. The Underland Chronicles. I was housesitting for a family I babysit for, and was looking through the kids' books, found the first three. I remembered the mom saying she liked this particular series, so I started reading them, and went through the first three books in about a week. They didn't own the last two, so I checked them out at the library. Really, really liked the series. Gregor is a 10-year old boy who follows his two yr old sister down a chute in their laundry room that leads to the Underland. A whole world of people and creatures that live miles underground. There is much turmoil and war in the Underland, and the people have been waiting for a warrior- because of a prophecy left to them by the founder of the Underland- and they decide Gregor is the one. So he goes through all kinds of adventure, creates realtionships, learns valuable lessons about life, etc...with the people, rats (gnawers), bats (flyers), mice (nibblers), cockroaches (crawlers), spiders (spinners), and others...great creation of another world by the author, and really great characters. I hope she is planning to write more!
5. I know you have been wondering, what about the Adventurer's Club...what have you crazy kids been up to lately? Not to worry, we are still around and hanging out. We haven't been very adventurous lately...at least not out in the world...BUT, we have been quite adventurous in the board game arena. Oh yeah...we have had several board game night get togethers. There is usually a round of taboo involved, but we have learned several new games...Willow likes to explore the game section at goodwill. Recently she found a game- Jungle Speed- but since she got the game at Goodwill, the directions were in French. They looked up instructions on wikipedia...so we had it mostly figured out, though questions did come up as we went, and Willow would attempt to read what she thought to be the answer, in French. I've been trying to make an effort to go out more- be more social, meet new people, discover new places, etc...but game night is always my favorite...so much laughing.
Alright...that's all for now...have a super productive week...see you again on Sunday.
Currently Listening to: Will Hoge, Blackbird on a Lonely Wire
Friday, January 22, 2010
It's been awhile, I've missed you
Okay, okay…I know…I haven’t blogged in awhile and you hate me, you’ve lost all hope in another Friday Five…I have let you down. I apologize. There was a lot going on there at the end of the year…I mean, both Christmas AND New Years fell on a Friday…there is no time for blog writing (or reading, for that matter) when Santa has visited.
And then, I decided I wanted to come up with a new blog idea for 2010. For one thing, I don’t know that I like writing on Fridays. There always seems to be something going on that makes it seem like a bit of a chore…so I am thinking about switching to Sundays. That way you have something to read on your lazy morning while you sip coffee in a café and waste away your day…OR, if you need a little break from your work day on Monday. Yes? Will that work for you? Good, good.
I was also thinking I needed a new theme…but that hasn’t come to me yet. Five on Sunday doesn’t really have a ring to it. Being that I’m super pumped for 2010, I thought about doing some kind of goal writing…but that just seems like a setup for failure (not that I’m incapable of reaching goals…I love having goals, big or small, but new ones every week could get exhausting and be an excuse not to blog each week). Have you ever heard of or read the book Around the World in 80 Dates? This woman decided to reach out to everyone she knew (and she was a journalist, so she knew lots of random people all over) and asked them to set her up on a date…so she spent the year traveling the world going on dates. Thought about doing something of that nature…probably not so much with the traveling around the world (though that sounds like the best part of that story!)…but then thought about how I don’t really like blind dates all that much, and doing it frequently enough to be able to blog every week would get a bit ridiculous. Plus, I don’t really like writing about people, other than “so and so was with me when we went here…” especially if they could read it, and if the blog was why I was getting set up, surely they would know about it and would read it. So that’s no good.
I’m still pondering that..so until I decide on something, I’m still going to do five points. First edition will be this Sunday…keep an eye out…I have much to discuss.
Have an awesome weekend!
And then, I decided I wanted to come up with a new blog idea for 2010. For one thing, I don’t know that I like writing on Fridays. There always seems to be something going on that makes it seem like a bit of a chore…so I am thinking about switching to Sundays. That way you have something to read on your lazy morning while you sip coffee in a café and waste away your day…OR, if you need a little break from your work day on Monday. Yes? Will that work for you? Good, good.
I was also thinking I needed a new theme…but that hasn’t come to me yet. Five on Sunday doesn’t really have a ring to it. Being that I’m super pumped for 2010, I thought about doing some kind of goal writing…but that just seems like a setup for failure (not that I’m incapable of reaching goals…I love having goals, big or small, but new ones every week could get exhausting and be an excuse not to blog each week). Have you ever heard of or read the book Around the World in 80 Dates? This woman decided to reach out to everyone she knew (and she was a journalist, so she knew lots of random people all over) and asked them to set her up on a date…so she spent the year traveling the world going on dates. Thought about doing something of that nature…probably not so much with the traveling around the world (though that sounds like the best part of that story!)…but then thought about how I don’t really like blind dates all that much, and doing it frequently enough to be able to blog every week would get a bit ridiculous. Plus, I don’t really like writing about people, other than “so and so was with me when we went here…” especially if they could read it, and if the blog was why I was getting set up, surely they would know about it and would read it. So that’s no good.
I’m still pondering that..so until I decide on something, I’m still going to do five points. First edition will be this Sunday…keep an eye out…I have much to discuss.
Have an awesome weekend!
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