I mean, seriously people…3 weeks in a row…I am on a roll. What is it- 28 days for something to become a habit?…either that means one more week of blogging and I’m back in it, or another half a year (since the blog is only one day a week)…here’s the five:
1. Will moving never end? Jeez Louise. I know that in the past I have kept my belongings to a minimum so I could pretty much pack up and leave in about 2 hours, and I have worked at making Seattle my home, thus adding more stuff…but I don’t remember moving being so unbelievably long and miserable. I have bruises all over my arms and legs from carrying boxes…I’m sure my muscle mass has tripled (I know, that sounds super intimidating), and I still have a ton left to do. I haven’t even STARTED unpacking at the new place…I actually think I will enjoy that. I am pretty well covered as far as the necessities at this point…I got a nice set of pots and pans for my birthday as well as some gift cards to help with the other purchases. There have been several trips to Target, a couple to Ikea, and then the random items given to me by friends and family. BUT, everything has to be out of the old place by Saturday…so while I’m not looking forward to finishing, it is nice to have an end in sight.
2. This past weekend, on top of clearing out the storage unit (thanks so much for your help mom!!), was Mother’s Day and my birthday. The last time these two VERY special days landed on the same date, the fam thought it would be hilarious to go to brunch at the BLT (oh, you aren’t familiar with the BLT? It’s the ever-classy Bonney Lake Tavern…as my mom says “but Eryn, they have a champagne fountain”). For whatever reason, I didn’t find it as amusing as everyone else, and it has been a joke ever since. There were many threats of that happening again this year. To ensure this didn’t happen, I suggested to Ron we create a surprise brunch at home. He came back and suggested it be a Disney World themed brunch…and we went from there. Ron put together a beautiful omelette bar…with every possible ingredient you could think of…from any of the many character breakfasts around the park. I made some Tonga Toast- the fried, banana-stuffed, cinnamon and sugar rolled french toast goodness from the Polynesian resort…there was a Toy Story table cloth and my Mickey Mouse plate set. She was surprised and it was yummy…I did feel bad though that she thought we just hadn’t made any plans, and she was frantically trying to make reservations up until that morning.
3. This Tuesday was the second Tuesday of the month, which meant it was time for The Round. I hadn’t been in a couple of months, and was excited…this was a particularly good one…Moondoggies, Campfire OK, and a new discovery- Kaylee Cole. I don’t usually love girl voices, but she was incredible. Definitely a highlight. The slam poets always blow me away…there are certainly those that are better than others…but even the ones that I don’t necessarily enjoy, amaze me. Their word choices and imagery is always so powerful. A lot of times I don’t like the rhythm or movements they perform with, because it often seems…um, generic? Not quite the word I want, but so many of them talk with the exact same rhythm, which takes away from the power of what they are saying. Every once in awhile though, you get those ones where they pause in just the right moments, making you lean forward in anticipation. Regardless of the actual performance, the fact that they (especially the high school kids!) can get up in front of a room of friends and strangers and share their thoughts is really amazing to me.
4. Wednesday night Death Cab for Cutie put on a last minute show at the Showbox Sodo…they announced the show on Tuesday morning, and the show went on sale THAT morning and sold out pretty quickly. Brian happened to catch the news early on and somehow managed to get tickets, so we went. It was their first show in almost 2 years, and it seemed like they were having fun playing together, making little mistakes and laughing. I don’t love the Showbox Sodo, but still- was a cool, small venue to see the band (since their next local show is headlining Sasquatch at the Gorge!). I’ll be honest, I’m not a huge fan (I don’t dislike…just wouldn’t ever pick them to listen to)…I’ve tried really hard to like them- I feel like I should. But I don’t. I felt a little bit guilty about being at the show, since so many big time fans weren’t able to get tickets…sorry guys. It was great.
5. Finally, a sunny day today. I really, REALLY wish it would stick around. I know it will cloud up this weekend, and the ten-day forecast is currently full of gray clouds and raindrops…but today, there is sunshine. It’s amazing what a difference that makes to everyone’s mood. Please stick around, Sun…please? Have a super weekend!
Friday, May 13, 2011
Friday, May 6, 2011
Friday- woot, woot!
Hey! Finally…a week that flew by (it’s been awhile since I’ve had a quick week, I guess)…here are the five:
1. Last weekend my mom and I drove over to Kittitas to visit my aunt, uncle, and cousins…I make the trip over every couple of months, but this visit was a special one…it was prom for the two older boys…and more specifically, SENIOR prom for Zach. Oh my gosh…I can’t believe Zach is graduating from high school. I have so many memories of that kid growing up… I fully remember my first actual conversation with him- when he was first putting together sentences…he is still the only kid, with all the babysitting I’ve done, that I have ever had to call poison control for… I remember when he learned how to use scissors at school and cut holes in his shirt and told his mom he ran into a tree branch…I mean, how is he possibly a graduating? Anyway…this wasn’t supposed to be an “I’m so old” point…just that the boys were very handsome in their tuxes and their dates were lovely…and it was fun to be there and take so many pictures! when I go home this weekend, I'll try to remember to post some pics!
2. Well, I started the moving process on Sunday, from my old apartment to the new…I have not been super productive. Sunday my dad and brother came up with a couch and chair, and helped me move my bedroom furniture…and that is about as far as I’ve gotten all week. I finally brought the shower curtain over last night…I’m pretty much still living out of an overnight bag. There will be some serious progress made this weekend though. My mom and I are going to spend some time sorting through my storage unit, and I will get all the STUFF to the new place. Organizing the stuff is going to take some time though. I have been staying at the new place all week, but it definitely doesn’t feel homey yet…it was super cool this morning, when I was walking out front, getting ready to head to work, there were lots of animal sounds coming from the zoo! Exciting…they were all getting up and saying good morning!
3. I went to a super great show on Tuesday- finally saw the Fleet Foxes…I feel like I bought the tickets to the show YEARS ago. I haven’t ever seen them, but do really like them…and it was really just so good! They are such a tight sounding band…it never sounds like individuals, but like they just pushed play somewhere and one sound comes out. There was a ton of time spent on tuning guitars, which was only slightly annoying (I mean, they literally could have played at least 3-4 more songs in the time that was spent tuning), but I suppose that is why the songs sound so amazing, right? Can’t complain too much. It was also very cool to see them at the Moore…pretty small venue.
4. Yesterday was the first Thursday of the month, which means free museum days, so Brian and I decided to be super classy and cultured and went to the Seattle Art Museum. They just opened a new exhibit of Nick Cave (not the musician)…Meet me at the Center of the Earth. He created these ‘sound suits’, which are these costumes put together with re-used…stuff. There were suits made from doilies, buttons, sweaters, etc…they were all super colorful and whimsical. They also had a big parade out front of the museum, where people came dressed up in their own ‘sound suits’, and walked together, lead by a marching band, along 1st avenue. It was quite a sight!!
5. Well, I am currently waiting for my lunch to get delivered and I am starving…all I can think about at the moment is my Red Mill chicken verde burger…ohhh, is it going to be delicious. AND, as if Red Mill on a work day isn’t exciting enough, we get to have treats today for my birthday! Yes! Okay, it should be here at any second…good bye for now!
1. Last weekend my mom and I drove over to Kittitas to visit my aunt, uncle, and cousins…I make the trip over every couple of months, but this visit was a special one…it was prom for the two older boys…and more specifically, SENIOR prom for Zach. Oh my gosh…I can’t believe Zach is graduating from high school. I have so many memories of that kid growing up… I fully remember my first actual conversation with him- when he was first putting together sentences…he is still the only kid, with all the babysitting I’ve done, that I have ever had to call poison control for… I remember when he learned how to use scissors at school and cut holes in his shirt and told his mom he ran into a tree branch…I mean, how is he possibly a graduating? Anyway…this wasn’t supposed to be an “I’m so old” point…just that the boys were very handsome in their tuxes and their dates were lovely…and it was fun to be there and take so many pictures! when I go home this weekend, I'll try to remember to post some pics!
2. Well, I started the moving process on Sunday, from my old apartment to the new…I have not been super productive. Sunday my dad and brother came up with a couch and chair, and helped me move my bedroom furniture…and that is about as far as I’ve gotten all week. I finally brought the shower curtain over last night…I’m pretty much still living out of an overnight bag. There will be some serious progress made this weekend though. My mom and I are going to spend some time sorting through my storage unit, and I will get all the STUFF to the new place. Organizing the stuff is going to take some time though. I have been staying at the new place all week, but it definitely doesn’t feel homey yet…it was super cool this morning, when I was walking out front, getting ready to head to work, there were lots of animal sounds coming from the zoo! Exciting…they were all getting up and saying good morning!
3. I went to a super great show on Tuesday- finally saw the Fleet Foxes…I feel like I bought the tickets to the show YEARS ago. I haven’t ever seen them, but do really like them…and it was really just so good! They are such a tight sounding band…it never sounds like individuals, but like they just pushed play somewhere and one sound comes out. There was a ton of time spent on tuning guitars, which was only slightly annoying (I mean, they literally could have played at least 3-4 more songs in the time that was spent tuning), but I suppose that is why the songs sound so amazing, right? Can’t complain too much. It was also very cool to see them at the Moore…pretty small venue.
4. Yesterday was the first Thursday of the month, which means free museum days, so Brian and I decided to be super classy and cultured and went to the Seattle Art Museum. They just opened a new exhibit of Nick Cave (not the musician)…Meet me at the Center of the Earth. He created these ‘sound suits’, which are these costumes put together with re-used…stuff. There were suits made from doilies, buttons, sweaters, etc…they were all super colorful and whimsical. They also had a big parade out front of the museum, where people came dressed up in their own ‘sound suits’, and walked together, lead by a marching band, along 1st avenue. It was quite a sight!!
5. Well, I am currently waiting for my lunch to get delivered and I am starving…all I can think about at the moment is my Red Mill chicken verde burger…ohhh, is it going to be delicious. AND, as if Red Mill on a work day isn’t exciting enough, we get to have treats today for my birthday! Yes! Okay, it should be here at any second…good bye for now!
Friday, April 29, 2011
April 29th!
Hey! I’m back and, being that I have attempted to write this particular blog entry (the return entry from the long hiatus) tens of times, I’m just going to get right to it.
1. I’m moving! No, no…I’m not moving away again…I’m actually quite content here in Seattle. But I’m moving to a new apartment. I have been in my same apartment in Fremont for, ummm, maybe 3+ years, with my same lovely roommate…and it has been great. But, recently I’ve just been feeling like it’s about that time to get my own space…make myself invest in some furniture and house stuff. I’m feeling a little anxious about the decision- I think mostly just because it all happened SO fast. I was just casually looking around at different sites, trying to get an idea of what kind of place I could afford. I had a couple of priorities-location and washer/dryer in unit…and then ideally a HOUSE versus apt. One day I came across a place that had all of those requirements, so I decided to take a look. I decided what the heck, filled out an application…and then the next day got the call that it was mine if I wanted it, but he had other people waiting so needed to know that day if I was interested…pressure! So, that’s the story…I get the keys on May 1st and will begin the moving process. As I mentioned previously, I don’t have much of anything to fill the place…currently I have a bed, bookshelf, couch, chair, dishes, toaster, blender, food processor….and that is just about it. So if anyone is planning to get rid of anything…please feel free to pass it along to me!
2. More excitement…I just returned (okay, a couple weeks ago) from a long weekend trip to Disneyland. It had been a couple of years since I was last there, and a few more years before that since my last proper Disney trip. It was so great! Disney highlights included-making faces for the picture in Buzz Lightyear’s Astro Blasters, having a sore arm from intense games of Toy Story Mania, fighting through crowds to get a blue section fastpass for the new night time show at California Adventure, World of Color (which was a cool show, but not as great Fantasmic), a delightful question and answer session with Crush (from Finding Nemo) in Turtle Talk that included some priceless comments from multiple kiddos, and a 16+ hour day that started with a magic morning entry (1 hr before the park opens) at Disneyland, over to California Adventure for the entire day (and a visit from Amy who recently made the move to LA…so fun to see her!), with a return to Disneyland to close that park down…it was pretty impressive really. In addition to the Disney fun, we also went to a taping of Conan, which was super cool (and Rory Gilmore was one of the guests!), went to a Dodgers game (loved that the stadium was up on a hill and completely let you forget you were in Los Angeles), and visited Laguna Beach and Newport Beach Tommy Bahama restaurants…so yummy! Such a stellar trip!
3. With Amazon making the move to our South Lake Union area, there has been several new restaurants popping in…which has been great (always nice to have new lunch and happy hour options close by)…Tom Douglas has taken over…in the past few months he has opened 5 new spots- he opened a second Serious Pie (fancy pizza), with a Dahlia Bakery below it (the biscuit and jam in the morning is unbelievable!), with a wine shop next door (I haven’t taken advantage of the occasional complimentary tastings NEARLY enough). More recently he opened Cuoco (hand made pasta), which we had an HR lunch at and it was AMAZING…sigh when I think of the gnocchi I ate. Finally made it to the Bravehorse Tavern last night, which was SO COOL. It’s pretty good size and was completely packed by 5:05pm. There is shuffleboard, lots of types of beer, and big pretzels with dipping sauces that included peanut butter/bacon, sour cream/onion, and pimento cheese. Bomb. I haven’t had the opportunity to try his new Dumpling place yet- TingMomo.
4. One of the reasons I was hoping to find a house rather than apartment building to move into, is because I really like the idea of growing vegetables and herbs in the yard. I’m not sure why I like the idea…I tried growing corn when I was younger and it did not turn out well, I think my mom might have tried tomatoes once, and I don’t remember that being successful, I’ve never done any flower planting…I think we grew radishes at my dad’s house when we were little…but who wants to eat a bunch of radishes? But anyway…I still really like the idea of it…so I’m going to give it a try. I have a bit of room in my backyard to work with….and I’d like to find a few things that won’t discourage me…because realistically, I don’t think I’m going to end up spending a ton of time on this stuff. Any suggestions of easy veggies or herbs? I’ll probs do some tomato plants…I think beans would be fun, but I’m not sure how difficult those might be. I like the idea of carrots…pulling things out of the ground- that sounds fun. The only herbs that I regularly use in cooking is rosemary- which I can probably grow, basil- I have tried a basil plant before but I have found I don’t use enough of it and the plant goes to waste…that’s about it. I like dill…I wonder if that would be doable…hmm. Anyway…suggestions?
5. And finally, how could I possibly make a post today- Friday April 29th, without mentioning the royal wedding? I mean, that is all that’s being talked about…just about every computer screen I walk by at work has random pictures from the big event. But, I think that’s about all I have to say….I just don’t care. It’s a ridiculously expensive wedding.
And there you go…five for this Friday. A quick Happy 30th Birthday to my big sis, Danielle!
Hope you all have a super weekend, with perhaps some sunshine? Fingers crossed, right?! Sorry about the rambling and maybe not as interesting writing…I haven’t been doing much of it lately and it might take some time to get my writing voice back…
1. I’m moving! No, no…I’m not moving away again…I’m actually quite content here in Seattle. But I’m moving to a new apartment. I have been in my same apartment in Fremont for, ummm, maybe 3+ years, with my same lovely roommate…and it has been great. But, recently I’ve just been feeling like it’s about that time to get my own space…make myself invest in some furniture and house stuff. I’m feeling a little anxious about the decision- I think mostly just because it all happened SO fast. I was just casually looking around at different sites, trying to get an idea of what kind of place I could afford. I had a couple of priorities-location and washer/dryer in unit…and then ideally a HOUSE versus apt. One day I came across a place that had all of those requirements, so I decided to take a look. I decided what the heck, filled out an application…and then the next day got the call that it was mine if I wanted it, but he had other people waiting so needed to know that day if I was interested…pressure! So, that’s the story…I get the keys on May 1st and will begin the moving process. As I mentioned previously, I don’t have much of anything to fill the place…currently I have a bed, bookshelf, couch, chair, dishes, toaster, blender, food processor….and that is just about it. So if anyone is planning to get rid of anything…please feel free to pass it along to me!
2. More excitement…I just returned (okay, a couple weeks ago) from a long weekend trip to Disneyland. It had been a couple of years since I was last there, and a few more years before that since my last proper Disney trip. It was so great! Disney highlights included-making faces for the picture in Buzz Lightyear’s Astro Blasters, having a sore arm from intense games of Toy Story Mania, fighting through crowds to get a blue section fastpass for the new night time show at California Adventure, World of Color (which was a cool show, but not as great Fantasmic), a delightful question and answer session with Crush (from Finding Nemo) in Turtle Talk that included some priceless comments from multiple kiddos, and a 16+ hour day that started with a magic morning entry (1 hr before the park opens) at Disneyland, over to California Adventure for the entire day (and a visit from Amy who recently made the move to LA…so fun to see her!), with a return to Disneyland to close that park down…it was pretty impressive really. In addition to the Disney fun, we also went to a taping of Conan, which was super cool (and Rory Gilmore was one of the guests!), went to a Dodgers game (loved that the stadium was up on a hill and completely let you forget you were in Los Angeles), and visited Laguna Beach and Newport Beach Tommy Bahama restaurants…so yummy! Such a stellar trip!
3. With Amazon making the move to our South Lake Union area, there has been several new restaurants popping in…which has been great (always nice to have new lunch and happy hour options close by)…Tom Douglas has taken over…in the past few months he has opened 5 new spots- he opened a second Serious Pie (fancy pizza), with a Dahlia Bakery below it (the biscuit and jam in the morning is unbelievable!), with a wine shop next door (I haven’t taken advantage of the occasional complimentary tastings NEARLY enough). More recently he opened Cuoco (hand made pasta), which we had an HR lunch at and it was AMAZING…sigh when I think of the gnocchi I ate. Finally made it to the Bravehorse Tavern last night, which was SO COOL. It’s pretty good size and was completely packed by 5:05pm. There is shuffleboard, lots of types of beer, and big pretzels with dipping sauces that included peanut butter/bacon, sour cream/onion, and pimento cheese. Bomb. I haven’t had the opportunity to try his new Dumpling place yet- TingMomo.
4. One of the reasons I was hoping to find a house rather than apartment building to move into, is because I really like the idea of growing vegetables and herbs in the yard. I’m not sure why I like the idea…I tried growing corn when I was younger and it did not turn out well, I think my mom might have tried tomatoes once, and I don’t remember that being successful, I’ve never done any flower planting…I think we grew radishes at my dad’s house when we were little…but who wants to eat a bunch of radishes? But anyway…I still really like the idea of it…so I’m going to give it a try. I have a bit of room in my backyard to work with….and I’d like to find a few things that won’t discourage me…because realistically, I don’t think I’m going to end up spending a ton of time on this stuff. Any suggestions of easy veggies or herbs? I’ll probs do some tomato plants…I think beans would be fun, but I’m not sure how difficult those might be. I like the idea of carrots…pulling things out of the ground- that sounds fun. The only herbs that I regularly use in cooking is rosemary- which I can probably grow, basil- I have tried a basil plant before but I have found I don’t use enough of it and the plant goes to waste…that’s about it. I like dill…I wonder if that would be doable…hmm. Anyway…suggestions?
5. And finally, how could I possibly make a post today- Friday April 29th, without mentioning the royal wedding? I mean, that is all that’s being talked about…just about every computer screen I walk by at work has random pictures from the big event. But, I think that’s about all I have to say….I just don’t care. It’s a ridiculously expensive wedding.
And there you go…five for this Friday. A quick Happy 30th Birthday to my big sis, Danielle!
Hope you all have a super weekend, with perhaps some sunshine? Fingers crossed, right?! Sorry about the rambling and maybe not as interesting writing…I haven’t been doing much of it lately and it might take some time to get my writing voice back…
Friday, November 26, 2010
Time for a change!
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!
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, 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!
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