Ginny's My Name

Splat!

2011-10-06T16:09:00.002-05:00

"Twice! TWICE!" I shouted at a friend via Gchat... twice I got hit in public with disgusting "stuff."

The first time it was via a pigeon who just couldn't "hold it" until I passed underneath his or her tree.

The second time was a little kid or mom (not sure which one) who couldn't control their smashed-up hot dog with ketchup and mustard.

The best part - this happened in public. From a huge white, liquid-y dropping down my jet black coat outside the World Bank to the gooey dog and bun with a nasty mix of condiments on my foot and shoe - I had the lovely audience of the DC public.

Seeing that both times my public humiliation took place was close to the lunch hour and near the White House I am was even more lucky to have had such a diverse audience. Yes, you had your tourists, 6-7K lawyers, lobbyists of every flag and the local street people.

My thought each time - "Awesome..." Surprisingly I wasn't really embarrassed either time. Interesting.

More than anything I laugh because typically it's me who's enjoying the noon scene with situations such as mine; ones that are so good I must share with others.

Oh well. I got it. The joke is totally on me (this time).

***

p.s. Even though I was mad at the pigeon I still helped out one of his handicapped fellow pigeons just 20 mins later. Let's just say, I'm not one to hold grudges.

Three Cheers to Being Boring

2011-06-08T15:16:00.002-05:00

Looking for some inspiration to finishing a project I turned to friend, Twitter and yup… my blog. The blog that I neglected for most of 2010 and apparently a good portion of 2011. The blog that, when I look back at some of the original posts, is a tad bit (ahem, very much so) embarrassing. Anyway, why do I look at it for inspiration for a work project? Well, it’s because I’m supposed to be writing about a subject I am passionate about. And if you know me, I am passionate about five things.

Agriculture | Trade | Business |Politics |Sports

Very broad subjects, I’m well aware. But for each committee of subjects there are subcommittees such as the Sub-Committee on agricultural trade and the sub-committee on dairy products. And, of course, there are sub-committees to the sub-committees. I won’t bore you with the committee tree (what, you’re surprised by the fact that I have my passions sketched out in a hierarchical tree/graph?!)

When I first started this lovely blog it was intended to make the friends back home laugh over bits and pieces of the ridiculousness of my life. But as I matured, so did some of my subjects – often subjects of my passions. And that is what leads me to today. I am perusing the site to see if there is anything that inspires me to write a compelling piece that will be read by more than my 12 online groupies (otherwise known as my best friends).

Thirty minutes later. Nothing. I am actually bothered by this. Not only by the time that was wasted but also by the lackluster content I put on this thing. But then (light bulb!) I stopped and got very happy. Since it’s far from interesting, there’s a rare chance that this will be viewed by many outside of my groupie readership. And if you look at no. 4 on that list up there… it’s probably for the better. Yes, I’m sad to say that I’m was lead to think about this due to the increase in scandals that have taken place on the Hill and around the political arena in the past six months. (sigh) Perhaps someday we’ll all be a bit smarter and more boring when it comes to the internet.

***

You know what's new to my plate of fun listening? The Currents' new Local Current

MN native or not, you'll love it.

Ode to Technology

2011-03-29T17:33:00.002-05:00

For one of my classes this semester I had to 'give-up' some forms of technology. It was for us to choose what to let go of for a five days (M-F). I had originally thought that I would give-up internet or Facebook but then realized with a budding 1,000 friendship, that might not be the best thing to do. But I knew that I had to give-up something that would leave a lasting impression via this experience. Thus I gave-up two things. 1. Television (this included streaming shows and news online) and 2. I said "no" to my smartphone. The funny thing is, I was so caught-up in figuring out what with give-up that I totally forgot about prepping the people who rely on contacting me via my phone and streaming work issues while away from the office. So, needless to say, I'm coming into work earlier so I don't miss anything and, well, the folks got a long-winded call at 10:30 p.m. on Sunday letting them know that they can reach me in a week.

I do have to say there have only been a few things that I have taken away from the experience thus far:

1. I feel (info) naked when I can't watch the morning news
2. Lack of info hasn't driven me to other sources of info yet (I always was a print/internet/tv/streaming combo kind of gal)
3. I miss the 'relaxing' hour I have with tv when I get home but don't really miss it as I'm busy with work and/or school
4. I miss my alarm clock on my phone the most

For as chatty as I am, I'm not a big pick-up the phone and chat for hours type of gal. This stopped after my elementary school best friend and I got over smelly-socks and 4-H jokes. We only had to dial 7 digits back then to call each other. It really has been that long. I find that I don't over-rely on any one form of technology for things. Perhaps the internet would be the winner of that argument but since I'm required to use it for work, it wasn't practical for this assignment.

But since I'm thinking about it... what would I do if I didn't have the internet?

Read and cook more. At least that's what I assume. Though, I can honestly say that I cook 2/3's + of my own meals and find that I spend at least 6 hours a day reading between books, journals, internet, etc. so would cutting internet access really help? Hrm... maybe it would help me foster better communication? Okay, I can say, yes and no to this. Yes, as it would force me to VERBALLY connect with people more but no because if it hadn't been for the internet, it would have been highly unlikely that I would be back in communication with some great people from days gone by.

So I wonder aloud, has technology really been for the better when it comes to my life? I think so. But I wouldn't mind cutting back on my dependence on it if it means I'll get a little more out of life.

Nebraska Corn Kernels: Soda's 'natural' sugar marketing gimmick falls fla...

2011-03-22T15:58:00.000-05:00

Cold, hard truth about sugar.

Nebraska Corn Kernels: Soda's 'natural' sugar marketing gimmick falls fla...: "There is no nutritional difference between corn sugar (high fructose corn syrup, HFCS) and cane or beet sugar – a sugar is a sugar, after al..."

Hi-Fiving Pandas Makes it REAL

2011-01-19T09:24:00.002-05:00

Hu's in town! Read that again. It's a statement, not a question. It's all the buzz here in the beltway and sadly not enough puns have come out of the situation. People have been talking about it a little here and a little there... nothing of substance has popped-up, yet. Well, that was until I saw the WSJ tweet leading me to this page. AMAZING.

Regardless of whether you think economics, trade and currency are fun topics the Taiwanese know how to 'rap' it up in summary. HHHHAHAHA. Yes, I totally meant for that.

Flying Made Fun

2011-01-06T09:12:00.001-05:00

I discovered this not too long ago. I am very excited to be matched with someone just as awesome. No really. I'm excited.

China & Football

2010-11-22T20:56:00.003-05:00

So I'm holding back on starting a paper on China and using the excuse of Monday Night Football to justify my laziness. No winner? I didn't think so either. But it's an exciting night in sports with the Broncos playing the Chargers (note: I cheer for the Broncs), Miss State & Ark are in 2OT (football) and Duke beating Marquette in basketball. I find all of these way more exciting than starting my paper.

This fascination is good for a few solid reasons. First of all, because of my fascination of all things sports I am never bored when I turn on the teevee. Secondly, current knowledge of sports does help me with talking to boys. So I'm banking on this ignoring my homework thing and catching up on some key games as an important move for my future.

GO BRONCS!!!

*************************

And on a totally un-sports-related note ... this is HILARIOUS! (and so, so wrong)

Leavin' On A Metr...Jet...

2010-11-17T22:45:00.002-05:00

Shortly many of us are gonna be gettin' some lovin' as we travel - who's excited for the new TSA pat-down or super-sexed scanning? I'm not sure how I feel about it yet but I'm sure I'll report back on that. Speaking of travel and reporting, the Daily Beast reported on the top airports. I'm happy to announce my main airport (DCA) ranked 10th, woot, woot!! My 2nd airport (MSP) came in at 16. I guess that isn't too bad?!

I did visit two other airports this past weekend - BWI and DTW. Totally my first time at BWI... it was okay. Nothing special. DTW (Metro) was nice, kinda reminded me of MSP but I was told that I was in the newer area. Though, neither of them had any cool/unique shops or lunch spots (ahem, Memphis) in the terminals that I was stuck in.

So now I'm thinking, there is a cool website called "Roadfood" that focuses on "regional meals along highways, in small towns and in city neighborhoods." Wouldn't it be great to have a website like that for airports?! I think so! I think I'd even travel to another city or make sure to do a layover for the mere fact to have lunch at a unique spot. And to think that airports could bank off of this!

And if there is such a website out there, sweet... just show me where cause I cannot find one.

36th State

2010-11-12T08:43:00.003-05:00

I'm off to DET in less than two hours to see a good friend marry a new good friend. I am very excited for a few reasons. A. This will be my first time out of DC area in two months. B. This will be my first time in MI and C. Duhhhh... I get to witness two people are are excellent for each other make a public commitment to one-another.

So I must get back to packin' (I'm an excellent procrastinator). I get to haul my butt up from northern VA to BWI for my little flight into DET. But as I leave you, please take a moment and watch this video (and tell me how you're able to make it to the end without crying!) Thank you to all of those who have put their lives on the line for the better of others. God Bless our veterans.

Money Maker

2010-10-18T19:40:00.002-05:00

I got the job. I will be employed by an organization and have a salary again. This is weird. OH! And not only a salary but also a 401(K), health insurance, life insurance and dental. Weird.

Now I just need to deal with the fact that I'll be employed full-time as a full-time student this semester.

Two months of hell? We'll see!

I Shook the Magic 8 Ball

2010-10-06T09:45:00.002-05:00

I got a call for a job interview yesterday and I freaked. Not in a, "Yay! I got an interview!!" type of freak but rather, "OH CRAP!" Weird, I know. But I think I need this. Doing this school thing full-time and working part-time on campus is messin' with me. My days of work/studying don't usually start until 11 a.m. and that kinda drives me nuts even though it's me forcing myself into that mindset. I justify it with the fact that I am either working, in class or studying my M-Th nights away so the late a.m. is the time for relaxing. Lame.

So back to the interview. It's (yay!) for an agricultural group. They actually called and emailed me about the interview. The crappy thing is that I will be doing a phone interview. And I STINK at those. I have no problem talking on the phone to people but I do have a problem when I can't see their reactions. My record for phone interviews is 1 in 8 since college. My record for in-person interviews is about 50/50. Odds are not in my favor.

So now I'm going peruse their website, develop some talking points and continue to slurp down the very caffeinated coffee in my new NYC mug (from a NYC friend - tacky, a little - sweet, beyond).

Lists & Papers - Today's Procrastination

2010-09-24T10:45:00.002-05:00

So I am on Facebook. Yes, that is nothing special seeing as everyone else in this world is and after "The Social Network" comes out I have a feeling the numbers are going to EXPLODE. With that I have a revelation and a bag-full of issues. No, not with the movie. Pfft. Movie-schmovie. You see, when I joined in Dec 2004, it was cool and unique. Of course I was in college at that time and it was used for uploading obnoxious photos from college parties, creating groups based on silly inside jokes and feeling superior to all others when you list yourself as "in a relationship."

Fast forward to 2010 - stupid photos are still being posted, but of boring moments because you know better when attempting to apply for jobs. Groups have turned into official things such as policy pieces you support. And now, you avoid the relationship status thing and just use Facebook to stalk that person you met on Saturday night but were too consumed with lame bar talk that you never figured out if he/she has anything in common with you.

It kills me yet I'm still stuck on it. I have tried to "quit" a few times but find myself lured back in because it's an easy, passive way of keeping in touch with friends 1,000 miles away. Now I get it, they are your friends and you should be able to use a few other tools out there (i.e. phone/email/hand-written notes) to keep in touch. I guess it comes down to me choosing the lazy route. I do care about these people but I'm too lazy to pick up the phone and give'm a shout more than the four times a year. I have convinced myself that I'll quit when I have a kid. This is easy to say seeing that I'm not married, or even in a relationship. Yep. Got it. I'm just making excuses.

But really...when (errr...if?!) I have kids I figured the last thing I need to do is post a million photos of the kid in the same outfit and two different expressions happening. Or um, have status updates about dirty diapers. (Hopefully my posts now are more entertaining!)I've heard that parents like having the Facebook because it's a way of feeling 'social' without having to leave the house. Now, if this is the case, I am nervous about what parenthood entails. I am pretty sure that if it comes down to that I will be the queen at booking play-dates. I do not want to rely on Facebook as my only source of socializing. This scares me to death, the notion that with age it will be one of my more common social tools than actually seeing people live or going to events. Not acceptable. No, no, no, no.

Now as I go and start mixing a drink cause I'm fretting about whole issue rather than working on a paper for school, I'll leave you with this most excellent video... Enjoy!

Get Off My Lawn

2010-09-23T10:43:00.003-05:00

I think I would have been a good neighbor for Walt Kowalski. For those of you who don't know Walt, he was the character played by Clint in Grand Torino.

So back to the point... Walt and me. We'd be a team. Now I don't keep a shotgun under my bed, but certainly have no problem chasing hoodlums with a broom or other long objects. I say this because most days you'll find me either tending to the flowers (damn squirrels keep digging in the flower pots, argh!), sweeping the drive-way, pulling weeds or watching the 'going-ons' in the 'hood. Walt would be doin the same. After a hard days work of yelling at kids and picking-up the front lawn he had no problem settling down on the front porch and crackin' a cold one. Again, I'd be right there with him.

Actually, I'd love to have Walt as my neighbor. Not only would it be nice to have someone who keep their lawn nice and neat or someone who enjoys a brew like I do but rather for someone to take my place in keeping the neighborhood straight. I know I don't live in Detroit and Arlington, VA is hardly even close to the 'hood in the movie but we have our fair share of stuff go down. Clint, ahem, Walt would certainly take care of that before I would even need to pick-up the phone to dial the local police.

Perhaps we need to recruit a few Walts to my neighborhood. Curious if the ACPD would be down with that?

Yes, I'm aware of the dull life I'm leading... the excitement of squirrels, drunk neighbors, class and readings about economics pretty much sums up my life right now. I'm in search of finding other things to keep me entertained. Maybe we'll get a good soccer or flag-football story soon! Until then...

Modern: Partially Employed & Grad School

2010-09-15T09:57:00.005-05:00

A few years ago, one of the front office ladies exclaimed, "OH! You need to write a book about your life!" I don't remember the story I was telling her but I just waved it off because, at that time, my life seemed like a complete bore. I guess traveling overseas by oneself and selling products to folks I'll never meet was boring. Then. Now it seems like a far off dream. Since that remark I have moved a few more times between the Midwest and East Coast in search of better jobs and more education.

Now my life is similar to a few thousand others where I'm partially employed, going to grad school full-time and completely broke. I am mildly obsessed with social media, watch CSPAN, Bloomberg & CNBC religiously while downloading alternative music from iTunes based on The Currents playlist. On the weekends I play local league sports, cheer on my alma mater in a losing sport (football) and swill beer like I'm still an undergrad. I am your average late twenty-something and it kills me to say that.

In my macroeconomics class we all look different but the only real outliers in the class are those who are over 40 and there aren't many of them this time around. This lack of originality is summed up by a comment I had from my interviewer a week ago, "You're overqualified and highly recommended." I didn't get the internship. This is happening over and over and over and it kills me. Perhaps it's the area I live in (DC) but I find that you are not allowed to be original. They prefer a status quo, BUT the one that they set. So I'm following that lead, getting a masters, starting to learn a new language and becoming even more socially networked.

With this, I am curious, will the next generation get shoved into a group of highly over-educated, lack of experience bracket or will they get the chance to move out of their little area and seek new opportunities and be encouraged to do so? I just wished I had to the guts to break free and go to the beat of my own drum - but when entrepreneurship is stymied by current markets/banking procedures and socially, it just seems best to stay the course that is recommended. Bummer.

Maybe it'll change when I'm forty.

President of Neighborhood Watch

2010-09-13T08:59:00.004-05:00

Just when I think my neighborhood is normal it throws me a new one. It's midnight on a Sunday night and I'm settling in after a somewhat exhausting day. I have my window cracked open because of the gorgeous weather happening. I hear the crickets and smile a little but know that they will keep me awake so I put on my fan to muffle the noise a bit. Less than 10 seconds later I hear this loud accelerating noise. Thinking it was my fan I shut it off. Nope, still there. Then I thought, Hrm... it could be something up with the house. So I start to peek around and see where it's coming from. Again, nothing but the noise stops, so I go back to bed.

"VRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRROOOOOOOOOOOOM!"

Seriously!?

At this point I'm completely ticked off. It's past midnight and we have people of all ages in our neighborhood, this is beyond appropriate. I run outside and look around. I see Bob and his wife are pattering around in their house (not sure why two retirees are still up?) but they don't peek their heads out and all other houses appear quiet. The sound sounds like it's coming from two houses down but there aren't any lights on and the ambulance is just sitting there quietly.(Yes, they have an ambulance but it gets better, they have TWO and use them for anything BUT saving lives). I'm confused and go back into the house.

"vvvvrrrrroooommmmm......VVVVVRRRRRrrroooommmmm.....VVVVVRRRRRROOOOOOOOOOM!!!"

At this point I grab my coat and throw on some shoes figuring I need to inspect the 'hood or else the cops are going to get call no. 3 from me this year. I walk down to the suspected house only to find out it's a pick-up truck that is in neutral with someone laying on the gas. That someone is passed out. You have GOT TO BE KIDDING ME! I knock on the window (I'll admit, I was nervous seeing I didn't know how he'd react and I didn't want to be hit or driven over). No response. I knock harder and finally just started to pound. After what felt like eternity he opened the door and mumbled something and shaking his head.

Trying to not shake him I asked, "Sir, can you please keep it down? It's late and you're waking the neighborhood up."

"Hrm??? Oh *slurred grumbles" Yeesh, I'll go int there." And he points to the house.

"Thanks." Ugh.

I turn and walk back to my house. I see one of the new neighbor guys (who lives between me and the questionable figure) out on the porch and obviously annoyed. I wave and yell hi and he just shook his head and said thanks.

I swear. It's finally time I get a sign that says, Neighborhood Watch - PRESIDENT

1 BILLION DOLLARS!

2010-08-11T11:12:00.004-05:00

For some reason Dr. Evil popped into my head as I was thinking, "Why can't we wrangle in the U.S. trade deficit?" And before you shake your head over the insane issues that I freak out/think of/dream about on a daily (re: hourly) basis - remember that this is what I do. I care about trade for YOU! Good, healthy trade is of benefit to most parties involved and for those that indirectly invovled. So I was a bit disheartened today when I read in the WSJ an article today showing that the sector I cared about the most (Food/Agriculture) is not doing well during these tough times in the trade world. Imports of food and feed are up by $33 million and exports [of food and feed] are down by $310 million. Uff da. Not good.

So yes, that is what I worry about on a constant basis. I know I'm not the only one. The USDA has tons of people in all different areas that devote a good portion of their time to analyzing/solving the trade issues... and the same goes for those over at Commerce and the USTR. So I know I'm not alone, though it just get's to me. *ARGH!*

But I won't fret too much. There are so many other important things out there that matter.

Like...

- Will the DC Gophers kick-butt at the CAN Softball Tournament?

- Will I be able to consume the appropriate ratio of milkshake:cheese curds at the Minnesota State Fair come August 25th?

- What will my "First Day of School" outfit be this fall?

All very important issues to be concerned with. I guess trade doesn't seem as important now that I think about it. *sigh*

The Smallest Things

2010-07-23T11:09:00.003-05:00

Two days ago as I was heading out of the metro I stopped to add more value to my SmarTrip card. As I was approaching the kiosks I noticed this older gentleman lingering by the kiosks with a look of discernment. Not sure what he was in need of, I casually walked up to a kiosk near him and proceeded to add value to my card. As he witnessed my successful transaction he asked, “Could you help me? I can’t figure it out.” The man, if he could stand-up straight was barely my height and had an air of wisdom and kind-heartedness surrounding him. “No, problem,” I said as I took his Senior SmarTrip card and swiped it, then taking the crisp $10 bill he was holding and added that to the card, while trying to explain the process. He was beyond patient and his eyes spoke pure gratitude. He thanked me and shuffled away.

I hurriedly moved on to the escalators where (argh!!) I got stuck behind two people too busy talking that they didn’t bother to stay to the right side. Looking over at the other escalator, I whined a little, noting that it was free on the left-hand side. “pfft!” but then I looked down and saw the sweet man standing to the right, making sure he wasn’t in the way of any commuters trying to walk up the escalator.

I cannot imagine what it must be like to see a world whizzing by me, as I imagined that gentleman did. As I recounted the story to a friend I claimed that if I was in that situation as an older lady I would probably be whacking the kiosk with my big purse and grumbling about people who have no respect (which funny enough, doesn’t always take age for me to do that!). He was a nice reminder of the sweetness of civility and how it can make a world of difference.

Shark Week... READY!? (August 1st)

2010-07-13T12:14:00.000-05:00

I am excited.

Are you ready?

No, No, No.

2010-07-09T09:13:00.005-05:00

This weekend I am off to VA Beach area for some R&R. I needed to leave earlier than normal so I could get out of work earlier to attempt at beating traffic (note how I used the word ATTEMPT).

Well it wasn't that great of a morning because...

*Lack of alarm (or I turned it off without even realizing it, hrmmm.)

*No hot water (forgo morning shower)

*Missed/late train

*Kicked off of other train

... leading to me being 30 mins late. I figured, "Oh well, I can make up the time come Monday, at least I have the beach this weekend!!!"

I just checked the weather.

Bugger!

Anyway - I have faith that it will still be lots-o-fun and it will be awesome to get out of the Beltway. Fingers crossed that the B&B will have AC!

Joan Loves Space

2010-07-02T09:10:00.002-05:00

Doesn't this chick look like she's Joan from Mad Men???

Great song and if you're into space of any sort - this is for you.

Vampires are SO 1990

2010-07-01T09:20:00.002-05:00

I can't turn the teevee on, log into the interwebs or open the paper without seeing some darn piece on that vampire movie that all the tweens, 30-something yr old married ladies and one straight guy loves. It's, ummm, awesome? While I'm really not into that stuff too much (or at all) if I had to pick, I feel like zombies are a much more mature/classier way of going. I do have to say, after spending a good deal of time with people who were a bit zombified I took on a greater appreciation. They are a complex species - not an idiot one who has names like Bella (really, the last Bella I knew was a cow on my home farm).

So as I sit here wondering when the next zombie pub crawl or meeting is in my EC 'hood I will share a cool trick on making yourself a bit more zobmiesque.

Scars With Bubblegum - The most amazing bloopers are here

A 40's Style Day

2010-06-24T08:22:00.001-05:00

It’s another hot, sultry day in the Beltway. I am slowly adapting to it. I think it’s better that I am forced to go outside BEFORE 12 noon because I have a real “job” (re: internship) this summer. Yes, it’s an exciting one. I get to do the lovely commute, smashed into a Metro car with men and women reading/listening to music/whacking you with their backpack because they lack social commuting skills. I have a better understanding of what sardines feel like…especially on those hot days when everyone is sweaty! The commute isn’t that bad, if anything it gives me cheap entertainment ($4.40/day RT!) twice a day.

My internship is in the USDA-FAS-OCBD-TSCB-RPSB. If you can figure that out you are automatically qualified for a GS-14/15 level position with the government! The office I’m in is pretty fantastic. People are friendly, understand agriculture AND understand global issues. Three things I value and love that can coexist. It’s a hectic office that fights with constant bureaucratic changes (systems/positions/etc.) and crazy, developing governments. You’re a champion if you can deal with that and at the end of the day go home rather than to a shrink. If anything, this internship makes me feel good about the portion of my tax dollars which go towards our initiatives.

Which leads me to MY initiative, Africa. I call it my “lost continent” because over the last five years it was the one place I rarely looked to when it came to business. Reason being, it’s primarily made-up of developing countries with poor government, regulation and banking systems. Three things you look for in a country before going in and trying to do business. I am now taking another look. Seeing as I am not in sales mode I can take my time to study the continent and it’s pieces. One consistently comes to mind when thinking about – fascinating. Sorry for you people who are obsessed over its culture. Yes, that’s pretty darn cool. But I’m obsessed over the politics and policy. Their business attitude it far different from Latin America and Asia…. it’s exciting. Now if there is achievement off of their attitudes that will be amazing. Not unthinkable but amazing nonetheless. I won’t go on any further because I’m sure this is boring. But I do say, take a second look at the continent. It just may surprise you. And seeing IT IS World Cup time and woah… S. Africa IS hosting, you may as well take a gander.

Speaking of soccer. I’m playing it. Yes, my 2010 sport is soccer. (I may have mentioned this but I’m somewhat lazy and not looking back at my old posts.) I have only received one head-on injury from it – a very bruised wrist. It hurts but it’s a good pain. GO USA!!!

Meet Me in St.... errr... DC

2010-06-22T20:25:00.003-05:00

I absolutely loved Meet Me in St. Louis growing up. Loved, loved, LOVED it. Mostly because I was obsessed with Judy Garland but also I was fascinated with how they "handled" the heat during the turn of the century (circa 1904). To this day I don't know how women were able to wear dresses/petticoats/stockings/etc. when it was above 75 degrees. At that point I'm sure I'd have had the "vapors" about a million times over. Didn't they know about heat stroke?!

Well, I complain about this because today in DC it hit high 90s (re: 99 degrees). I about fainted on the Metro because the car I was in was lacking AC. Though, with all of this complaining I must bite my tongue seeing I go from a house with central air to an office with central air to a car (boyfriends) with a working AC. It's only for one mile am I sweating it out in my work clothes. So I realize, yes, I am very spoiled. Though, if I had the choice my version of a nice hot summer day would be 80 degrees, NO humidity and a lake with public access at every corner.

I think back with awe on how my ancestors crossed the prairie on AC-less trains I will wake up as an appreciative lady tomorrow and smile when the meteorologist announces another steamy day.

Perhaps in 1904 they were smart... they at least had a trolley above ground allowing natural air-flow unlike 2010 where we are stuck in a small box of a car underground withb a broken AC. Hrmmm...

Sloths

2010-05-20T15:20:00.003-05:00

I really like the movie Ice Age. A lot. It makes me giggle and well, something about a talking animal always makes me giggle and a little bit homesick. (No, my cows, cat and dog don't talk but I'm crazy enough to believe that I know exactly what they are thinking). While I wasn't into one animal over the other in the movie I started think more about sloths. Probably because it's an animal that I've never seen before. Well I found a great video about sloths and their adorableness. Forget the bunny... I now want a baby sloth for a pet!

Meet the sloths from Amphibian Avenger on Vimeo.

'tis the Season

2010-05-18T13:01:00.003-05:00

It's wedding season. I know this by way of two ways, well more like 25. Anyway the season is upon us and my bank account is starting to reflect that (but it's worth it) and a few many FB status updates now are fully devoted to word on the upcoming nuptials.

I say, "Oy!"

As a traditional, non-traditionalist (e.g. I want a mostly black wedding dress if the day ever happens for me), I often find myself gagging at some of the "stuff" I get to witness. But I must sit back and swallow it because I know with this type A personality there is great potential of me taking all of that stuff to an entirely different level. As I'm aware of the potential for that, I have start to make many and I mean dozens of mental notes of "What not to do" in order to keep my friends and family on the non-hatin' side of me!

Now because I'm only getting older and ~ 75% of the people I'm around are married or in fully committed relationships I get asked a lot of marriage questions (mostly by other folk who find it odd that I'm still singlesque). They are all so very excellent. My favorite are the non-questions, rather these people are making statements for me. Awww, how sweet. Just because I'm getting closer to 30 than 20 and have yet to commit to anything beyond the current month doesn't mean you can make such grand assumptions such as, "Your clock is tickin' for kids!"

Really? REALLY!? I like to remind them that it doesn't take a marriage to pop out a kid and if that damn clock was tickin' that hard I would have taken care of it by now. Funny how that shuts them up. Truth be told, from an early age I haven't wanted to settle down until after my 30th birthday. I'm a bit selfish in that way, I guess. But I figured if I were to settle down I'd prefer to do it only once and that means I should get a few things out of the way in order to be a better partner down the road. A crime, I think not. Until then, I'll enjoy celebrating these moments of flower filled, booze-induced dances, dry chicken dinners (ahem, weddings) in honor of my friends.

So here's a toast to my friend Mel and her sig other, Jonathan (J) - may you two have a rockin' marriage from here on out ... and yes, I will be enjoying the drinks and some darn good food this weekend down in 'bama with ya'll!

School's Out for SUMMER!

2010-05-12T08:36:00.002-05:00

Yes! I took my last final on Monday night. After 2 hrs & 45 mins I felt that I had successfully explained economic trade principles on in the international marketplace. Now we just wait and see if my professor agrees with me. Until then, Alice (Cooper) and I will be rockin' it (and workin' it so I can afford a few plane tickets).

After a weekend of studying, including a Saturday night final, I felt exhausted. Add in a poor diet and a pinched nerve and it's hard to believe that I didn't have a mental breakdown. I took the morning of Tuesday off and sat in a zombie-like state on the couch. I watched bad movies and kept my phone off. It was AMAZING. I had also put a ban on reading and writing for the day. I only read and wrote what I absolutely had to.

I miss yesterday. Perhaps it will come back.

oh and I found a pretty fantastic website: WTF CNN - yes, the name says it all.

A Bear, A Lion & A Horse

2010-05-05T21:41:00.003-05:00

Almost a week ago I had an aching back. Lovely, right? Well, I ignored it and moved on to play soccer for the first time ever on Saturday. Felt pain all through the weekend only to wake-up on Tuesday morning screaming in pure pain, falling down (from my bed) and weeping the entire 20 ft to the bathroom. I cursed at the fact that I'm a woman, rather than a man because I couldn't bear the thought of squatting to do my business. I decided I could wait until the pain subsided. I made it back to my bed and called my mom. It's 5:45 a.m. CST. She talks me through my crisis and diagnosis my pain as an upset muscle that's pinching a nerve causing the excruciating pain that was shooting down my leg and creating some numbness.

As soon as I got off the phone I called S&S and asked if they could take me to urgent care. Got there and was seen after only 30 mins (horribly LONG minutes) of waiting. They gave the same diagnosis as my mother and assigned me steroids and pain killers. I was in love. After a quick trip to Walgreens & breakfast from Wendy's I was back home where I could finally approach the bathroom for the first time without crying. The drugs started to work and slowly the pain subsided in my lower back and allowed for me to move from room to room, albeit, very slowly.

That was a 4 hour period. It sucked. Royally. Though, it has gotten me a number of sympathy points from TB (the boy) and given me ample hours to watch the going-ons in my 'hood. It's boring. Well, take away crazy neighbor, an army of squirrels and the annoying sorority house that likes to have parties with front door open (during the week) and you get boring. That is... until a crazy lady with a stroller across the street unloads a giant stuffed bear and horse onto the sidewalk infront of Bob's house (note: NOT HER HOUSE!).

I stare for a solid 20 mins trying to figure out what has just happened. Not wanting to fight pain if I didn't have to I staying inside and continued to stare. Yes, there was a "FREE" sign next to them. But still, why there?! Later in the day they were gone (Me: "Oh good, the hillbillies found some new toys!") ... but only to find another two animals out there the next day.

What the heck?!

Is this woman really good at carnival games?! Is her husband threatening to leave her if she doesn't get rid of them? Is she strategically leaving these all around the neighborhood!?

I guess I'll just have to wait and see if she comes back ... sans divorce!

p.s. I apologize, I was too dumb/slow to remember to take a photo of my crazy evidence.

2010 One-third Over = New Sport

2010-05-03T21:15:00.003-05:00

So the semester is coming to a close. With that, I'm very, super, super thankful for. I am sad to announce that I was wrong when it came to graduate school. I had fooled myself into thinking that it would be different this time around. As in, I would NOT PROCRASTINATE and I would LOVE EVERY SECOND of class and I would spend DOUBLE the hours on my assignments and read AHEAD. While I certainly did improve from my undergrad years, it wasn't the complete 180 had envisioned.

I did manage to get involved on campus though! I have a part-time gig working with the GMU Arlington Life area (i.e. planning local stuff for students) and plan on running for an office on campus come Fall 2010. My name is making its rounds, always a plus in school, most notably a school in the Beltway. And not-to-mention, I need it to get out of the job I'm currently doing. As much as I love making decent money working from home, it gets kinda lonely and doesn't move me that much closer to desirable international work.

But the semester is coming to a close and current work is packing on. Stress is mounting but I thank the help of good friends and a wonderful guy who is making it into my thoughts more and more. I also thank myself for finally verbalizing a need... the need to get on board of a new sport for the year 2010. Upon hearing this TC presents me (a week later and to my surprise) with a pink soccer ball and shin-guards. I squealed in pure delight and ran down his condos hall kicking a soccer ball with my flip-flop foot.

After dusting the cleats off and donning a pair of bright pink socks (courtesy of TC), I walked onto a soccer field. I told the team that I was new at the sport and not afraid to get whacked, sweaty or yelled at. They were cool with that and all three happened during the hot, 90 degree and humid Saturday game. But please note, the whacking was ALL on my part.

So three words.

I love soccer.

There is a lot for me to learn but I like it. It's a great cardio workout and allows for me to be super aggressive (take THAT flag football). I enjoy a good bruise if it was all for sport. The team seemed like me, so yes, I will be back. Yay!

**The only downfall: my back has been giving me trouble and I guess the solution is NOT to go and play soccer for an hour, who knew!? Apparently my mom did. It just means me waking-up for the third day in a row screaming in pain and walking hunched over and allowing the boy to pamper me with kind words of worry.**

Cheating

2010-04-24T13:29:00.004-05:00

Dear Blogger.com,

I'm sorry... I have cheated on you. I have started to blog on a different location. Though, please note, this affair is only for two weeks. After I'm done with Mr. National MS Society I will come back to you and give you greater attention. Perhaps TWO stories and a YouTube post!? Please forgive me, but this is solely for a greater cause. Thank you for being so kind and patient.

Love,

Me

***

If you are feeling neglected as a reader, please take the time to do some reading on my page where I'm fighting for those with Multiple Sclerosis.

There are some entertaining posts and a great look into what my family and I are going through as a family who endures the daily experience of living with someone who has to put up with MS. It's a crappy disease (yes, that's a "duh" comment but it is!).

And if you feel so inclined, a donation of a few Lincolns or Washingtons is always nice!!!

You Win Some, You Lose Some

2010-04-14T08:35:00.002-05:00

I have a problem. I lose important things. Now, wait, I MISPLACE important things. In the past 12 months I have misplaced - volleyball, curling shoes, world map, SS card, birth certificate, wallet, checks, my favorite skirt, a mitten, favorite beret and a scarf. In the same period of time I have RE-found all that is highlighted above. Not much hunh? This could mean one or two things, either I need to stop moving or I need a personal assistant to keep track of my stuff and perhaps my thoughts.

The killer part of this - people consider me organized. Really? Organized?! Yes, I like stuff neat and tidy. And yes, I tend to lose my valuable things while en route but wouldn't an organized person put that somewhere that is not only note-worthy but also safe? I don't know. It just baffles me sometimes that I get labeled that, especially after I misplace an important document.

But perhaps I AM organized and I DIDN'T actually misplace the article. Perhaps it's just my crappy memory. The reason why I even mention this stems off of a conversation I had with my family over Easter.

Mom, "Yeah, I need to cut down on the sweets."
Me, "Well, you know what I do? I hide my Skittles from my self so I don't eat too many."
Dad, "THAT'S ridiculous. You can't HIDE something from yourself. You're the one who put it there... you know where it is!"
Me, "Trust me, it's hiding. One time it took me two weeks to find a bag."
Mom, "Yeah, I'm amazed what I have accidentally hidden from myself."
Dad, "You're both crazy. I remember EVERYTHING I place somewhere."
(Note: Dad has MS and his memory stinks ... and that can be said true PRIOR to the crappy disease. Regardless, Mom and I know better and just roll our eyes at Dad.)
K walks in.
K, "What are you talking about?"
Dad explains argument.
K, being sensible and clueless as to what is at stake here quips, "Why do you even need Skittles?"

End of story.

Point here. I blame my family for the reason why I lost my own record of birth.

Back by Pop Demand

2010-04-13T08:03:00.002-05:00

I was informed by the FOUR avid readers I have that I've been slacking. I apologize. Or not?! Well, regardless, I realize that it has been a bit of time since I've been on here blabbing about what I find interesting and the crap that has been happening in the 2220X.

It's easier to start with a list and finish with a story.

- I just filed my taxes and owe our great govn't (that makes me more upset with each day) $6,300.
- I got a part-time gig on campus planning events. Yes, watch out GMU Arlington Life, this girl is gonna show you a good time!
- The 24 hr stomach flu sucks and mind you, it's not always 24 hrs ... (going on hr 30 right now)
- I found my world map (WIN!), lost my birth certificate (LOSE!)
- Neighbor boy & I = :)
- The Arlington Police are now securely in my phone

Oh yes, March was a good month. I forgot the one joy of being self-employed means owing the govn't a nice sum of money come April. As much as it pains me to write the checks, I must remember that it's for the better of society and that must mean some kick-butt health care no?! Speaking of which, even though it's *done* it's not done here in the Beltway. The subject is old to me, but I have a feeling it won't go away. Though, if anything great will come of it, I'm thinking it'll be called a Tuesday in November. Just my opinion.

Some people have been asking about the snowy day of being locked out and taken in by the neighbor. Apparently there were some mutual thoughts between the two of us. So after a lot of bickering (we're kinda the opposite... in every which way) we have managed to enjoy a good many insightful conversations and share our love of music, sports and an occasional episode of A Prairie Home Companion. Yes. You read that correctly. We both like it. A lot. Be quiet. And that's all I'm going to say about that on here because this wasn't created for me to talk about girly relationship crap.

Probably the most exciting bit that has happened since I've last been on here and since I've seen a few of you includes a neighbor (different one than the previously mentioned), a stick and the cops.

This past Sunday a buddy of mine was over washing his car in my drive-way, back of the house while I was reading on the deck. I heard someone else talking to my buddy so I get up to see who it is. An older man, holding a stick (that looked like a club), was shaking it at my buddy, swearing and making odd accusations about killing dogs and people. We were all confused as to what his problem was and tried to calm him down. It was apparent that we were not going to be able to do that so I asked him to leave if we could not help him. He swore at as and that was when I threatened to call the cops on him. He wasn't letting down. I called out M (female roommate) to come out there so buddy wouldn't be alone with crazy man while I called the cops. After being accosted over and over, including death threat the man left. We followed to see where he ended up (three houses down) and informed the cops of this.

M & I were shaken up a bit. Really, it's our neighbor and he's making death threats! It was obvious that he was confused and probably has dementia or something to that liking but still, you want to make sure all is safe for the entire hood and himself. The cops came as a nice s..l..o..w Sunday pace. We gave our report and asked for them to check on him. Yes, the cops were hot and well, they were hot. (uniform = yummo).

Since then we've been keeping an eye out, but haven't seen any activity. Through other neighbor sources we found out that it is true, he's been having some mental problems, and they claim it's potential Mad Cow disease. Yeah, that was self diagnosis. Go figure. I feel bad for the man, but there is a point where feeling bad is trumped by caring about safety of yourself and neighborhood. Hopefully he'll get the help he needs.

So yeah, all is quiet here on the 14th St. North front! And now back to work!

No Wire Hangers

2010-03-10T23:12:00.004-05:00

Seriously.

Though I found that you can "recycle" wire hangers in Arlington. Nice!

This reason why I even bring this up was from an email I just received about a friends confusion with a groups name. She found this group on Facebook solely devoted being green and eco-friendly by organizing ones life. For some reason they have chosen the name of No Wire Hangers. I applaud their goal but, well, unless you have been living under a rock for the past four decades,I bet you $20 that when you hear "no wire hangers" you automatically think of the scene in Mommy Dearest about Joan Crawford's obsession of no wire hangers and just plain whacko.

If you think eco-friendly lifestyle - congrats. I'm just thinking that it's gonna take a bit of time to re-brand that saying.

So for all of us who giggle (re: cringe) at that scene:

Three A-Holes Go For A Walk

2010-03-09T13:06:00.002-05:00

My exercise routine is pretty much non-existent. I have now convinced myself that since I am a poor student and don't own a car anymore, walking is necessary and well, my exercise. Great, right? Well, that would be good if I had to walk everywhere but I don't. I guess when you don't own a car you don't plan much stuff further than a mile from home, thus I rarely do much walking. And while some people have the opportunity to walk to work, I cannot say that I benefit much from mine seeing as it is only 12 ft from my bed.

Bring in Sharm & Stratton.

On Sunday Sharm calls to ask if I want to go for a walk to take in our newly found sunshine. (YAY!!!) So we planned to hit-up the trails behind my neighborhood and do some visiting. They walked a mile to my place and we proceeded from there to the trails. Once on the trail the fear set in. Not that we would over exert ourselves (we were walking at a very slow pace) but that bicyclists and runners would trample us. We cautiously moved in single-line form and marched eastward.

Slowly we realized that we didn't know where exactly the trail would bring us so we pulled over. One was tired (no names), another confused and another a bit too perky for the others good. As we moved over to take a break and figure out where we were automatically the three of us whipped out our phones. As normal, fit people zoomed by on bikes and running in groups we were the not-so-fit ones on the trail with our phones out. That it when it hit me... we're a bit too much like Two A-Holes sketch from SNL.

This sketch lands a little too close to home - enjoy.

If Arlington Co. could, I'm sure we would be banned from all trails due to our lack of physical movement.

Blast You CST.

2010-03-04T12:20:00.002-05:00

While I'm hanging out on the EST, my clients are all (other than my Hawaiian outlier) sitting CST. This is usually to the benefit of me, such as allowing me more precious hours to sleep in each morning. Rarely are there any issues with me messing up the time because, um, it's only ONE hour. That is nothing compared to what I used to face with clients from other continents - I'm talking to you Asia!

So today was like any other Thursday, I get up, make myself some coffee, peruse my emails, check on a conf call time and set myself to the task of washing the kitchen floor and doing a load of random wash. Once my Cinderellesque duties were complete, I poured another cup of coffee and settled down to write notes & check email until the conference call started.

Message: 11:04 a.m. EST

"Will you be able to join us for the conference call? Code is 49583" - D

BLAST!

I quick double check the call invite and see that it was scheduled for 10 am... not 11 am CST as I had written down in my planner for 12 noon EST. Ugh. And it was 11:40 EST. I quick called in.

Sorry!!!!!!! ... was all I could blurt out as I interrupted the closing statements.

They laughed and said I didn't miss much. Um. Yes I did. It's this thing called my ego and billable hours. They go hand-in-hand.

Perhaps I should have triple checked the date & time. But I didn't. I'll just blame my ever beloved coffee, which was the reason why I had even left my room (re: office) in the first place. If I was so addicted to my Dunkin' I probably wouldn't have missed my conference call and would be a few bucks richer.

Though speaking of my Dunkin' Donuts ...

After enjoying the latest post by Miss Mel (my favorite Alabaman) about Target (a fave MN company - are you seeing a trend here?) and their latest ad campaign being built BY the clientele I was reminded of Dunkin's new contest. Yes, I know Dunkin' has a new contest every-other-day but I think I may partake in this one. Can you create the next Dunkin' DONUT!?

I'm doing it and so should you!

Yes, I know you can. How many times have you been inhaling a Donut and coming up with your own version of Cinna-bacon-nut or Choco-latte-nut? Hrm? Yeah, thought so. Well share you culinary/R&D smarts with Dunkin' and you just never know... perhaps you'll be the next Donut king or queen!

Hrmph. Go team?!

2010-02-17T15:57:00.003-05:00

I had high hopes for USA Curling and all they are doing is letting me down...

Men - lost to both Germany & Norvay (though, note, both opponent teams had hot guys so they got bonus points from me there)

Women - lost to Japan and Germany ... killer mistakes made, can't believe it.

I'm not going to breakdown the mistakes, I'm just going to leave with the note of disappointment that I'm carrying right now. Granted it's just round two of the Round Robin event and they have six more games to go but it's just a bad start and that can really set a tone.

So onto the good news!

My old curling home, the Philadelphia Curling Club, is hosting an Open House next weekend and yes, I'm going!

Check out this article by Marcus Hayes, a Philadelphia sports writer, as he tried curling for the first time ever. I do have to say, many of his thoughts reflect the same things that were going through my head back in 2007 during my first class at the Potomac Curling Club. Though, I have a feeling that many of these aches and pains he speaks of will come right back seeing it's been awhile since I've done any 'willing' sliding on ice.

So if you enjoyed the article, you'll most definitely enjoy the video (not the mention, you get to see a few good shots of the club)

One More Day

2010-02-15T15:36:00.003-05:00

Until Olympic CURLING STARTS!!! Woohoo!

I am excited to watch the U.S. men's and women's teams. For those who are not curling fans I suggest you take a gander at the sport on the teevee this year. While it doesn't appear to be demanding physically or mentally it really is - well, more on the mental than the physical.

FUN FACT: If you are in the position of First or Second, you average 2 miles of walking per game.

And if you ever wonder what a curlers dream is like ... this video will give you some good insight:

While I haven't been on the ice since 2008 I still love it and cannot wait to start curling next season. All I need to do is find my shoes (or buy new ones) seeing how it's funny that they 'run' off after being moved a few too many times. I have my broom and I may or may not have walked around Arlington this past weekend with it while blasting the Olympic theme song from my iPod out loud (than you portable speakers)! Best part was, I only got a few strange looks, one of them coming from a bum.

So yes, I'm ready not for only the Olympics but some American Curling victory!!

And if you were ever curious as to how a curling stone is made, check this out:

Are those from L.L. Bean

2010-02-12T14:53:00.002-05:00

Not too long ago DC was dubbed the "Hollywood for Ugly People." I was a bit shocked when I heard this but then took a look around and realized that there is some truth to that statement. And lo-and-behold, there's even a blog devoted to it (then again, what isn't there a blog devoted to?)

Seeing that I've never claimed to be fashion-forward, ahem...I come from the land of practicality duh. I had my run-in with someone that reminded me of why the "Hollywood for Uglies" exists.

After the city has been ambushed by two blizzards over the past week and finds itself digging out of 2-4 feet of snow it is hard for the 'uglies' to even try to attempt at being fashionable but yet, I'm finding them trying really hard.

My common attire over the past week has consisted of snow pants, long-johns, boots and a down jacket. My way of sprucing up the outfit is via faux diamond earrings.
As I'm stomping around the city of Arlington (I haven't crossed the river in over a week due to crappy metro transit delays) I find myself in the same pieces of clothing and footwear ... namely my boots. My $20, Fleet Farm boots. These boots have saved me from many falls, from worrying about frostbite and have helped increase my speed in 18" of powdery, white stuff. While some friends are dawning their fancy lookin' rubber boots (non-insulated) I am perfectly happy and cozy while they are stomping their feet to regain feeling. So what if I look like I should be out deer hunting, I'm comfortable and that trumps all.

As I understand that girls still want to look cute even during the most treacherous weather, by no means are heels appropriate footwear. Yes, I'm talking to YOU the girl who took 20 mins to go downhill on a one-way path whereas it should have taken 5, ugh. (I'm still fuming about that)

While I have taken no shame in my lack of style,my ego has been lifted to a new level. It was Saturday and I had just trekked 4 miles around the city visiting friends in search of sanity where I made the last stop with my buddy T down the hill in Rosslyn. Once the evening came to a close T and I started to get ready to leave. Our host, a nice North Dakota boy who has been living out east longer than the wild west, took a glance at my boots and said, "Nice... did you get those at L.L. Bean?" Without skipping I beat I threw back, "Nope, I went to this little place, only in the Midwest, you may have heard of it - Fleet Farm."

BOO YA FASHION ELITISTS!

Curious, I took a look at what my twin boots at L.L. Bean would cost - yeah, I'm the wiser one there. Nice try boys. Lesson learned, I guess I can be a bit Hollywood and not even realize it - all thanks to Fleet Farm.

Click.

2010-02-11T13:42:00.002-05:00

As noted, I like to meet the neighbors. I just plain like meeting people and when I discovered that we had two neighbor guys just next door, I got even more excited. No, they won't fully replace TC & CF but they are about 1.94 miles closer. So after this discovery and in the midst of going stir-crazy during our second storm in less than a week I sought the advice of TC on how to get to know (re: get invited) the neighbors better. M and I though about bringing over cookies, perhaps asking to borrow something but it all just came off too desperate. Suffice to say, I gave up on my schemes and decided to move ahead with my projects of the day.

After being burned out from doing micro homework for 2.5 hrs I decided that I should fix a pitcher of sangria and clear off the newly blanketed drive for when M came home. She's had crappy commutes and going to work at 4:30 a.m. never lifts anyone's mood. I quick mixed up the sangria and put on my snow gear. All SET! I walk outside to survey the damage. Not bad! Uh oh. Did the door close? Was it locked? I groped for the doorknob while screaming at self within. DAMN! It's locked. I'm locked out of the house and it's 10 degrees out and windy. Awesome.

I figured there was little else I could do beyond shoveling seeing I had NOTHING on me (no cell, no money, nothing). It was about 4:25 when I locked self out. I set to work on our driveway. People would walk by but none of the close by neighbors. None of them were out. Of course. Well, other than the hillbillies two houses down and frankly, I'd rather freeze than figure out what they are gonna be doing with that old, rusted out 85 camero on blocks in the front yard.

After a solid hour (?) of shoveling finally the boys door opened and out came MM. He saw me shoveling. Yelled over, "I beat you!" MM, "Yeah, well you've been out here forever!" Me, "Ummmm *silence* Yeah.... *more silence* It's easy to do that when you lock yourself out of the house." MM just stared and then laughed. By then I was over the punchy phase and explained that M should be home within the next hour. After we cleared out his walkway and around the car I was invited it. He set the heater up right next to me and gave me a beer and tried to force me to eat dinner (Um, I'm a girl, we don't eat food in front of a boy the first time, no, we drink and starve ourselves in hopes to not look like the pigs that we are). I was able to locate M's number and leave her a msg about my stupidity and found myself home within the next 30 mins.

As fun as it was... locking self out is probably not the best way to get invited over to the neighbors house.

Best line of the night - M, "I seriously thought you planned this."

Yes, I did but no, not really. Next time, the keys are coming with me & a plate of cookies as a thanks.

And just in case you haven't seen how awesome the Mid-Atlantic weather has been ... this video is wicked awesome.

snOMG from Andrew Cutraro on Vimeo.

Neighborhood Dance

2010-02-10T12:36:00.003-05:00

Do you want to know how to meet your neighbors that doesn't include the cops? A blizzard. I'm strong. But I'm tired of this. I thought I left this behind in the Midwest but I guess I and Al Gore were wrong. If there is anything good from this (beyond making the memorials look really purty covered in snow) it is getting out of the house and meeting your neighbors. On Saturday my roommate and I spent a good hour and half shoveling out the driveway to make it less craptastic come Sunday, when the snow was predicted to stop. During that time we witnessed the sorority house across the street with their boys in tow making a 'couch' out the snow drift in their front yard, complete with throw pillows and beer holders.

As my roommate and I threw beers in a bag and placed them on the cooler (the foot of snow on her car) we were greeted by hoards of neighbors walking down the street, beers in hand, chatting and taking photos of crazy, snow scenes. It was awesome. There were jokes going around and a lot of introductions. One of best moments was when the older couple across the road started to take about 30 photos of us in action and yelling over to us, "STOP! SMILE! PERFECT!!! We'll send these to you!" Love it. Another bonus, meeting the cute neighbor boy who's window is 10 ft away from mine (okay, that seems creepy written ... in it's not).

Anyhow neighbor boy earned major points that day with us for more than just looking cute. He had borrowed an old broom to clean off his car and I jokingly told him that he owed us a $10 usage fee. I said I was joking but he must have took it to heart a little. After a visit to the local Giant (I knew he went because he asked how it was after I had returned) we found a bottle of wine and a "Thank You" card on our porch next to the broom. Who knew guys still have hearts? I didn't! So now we are working on baking some cookies and going to bring them over to him as a thank you for being awesome.

Well, I'm out. I just pray that my roof doesn't collapse and the tree in the front yard decides to stay vertical (there is so much snow & ice on the darn thing, making in sag and hit our front window, not cool).

Hope ya'll are staying warm & safe!

Meet My Date - Mr. Calculator

2010-01-30T01:51:00.002-05:00

It's almost 2 a.m. on Friday night/Saturday morning. I'm not just coming home from being out. Nope, I just logged out of my Micro homework and finished up some regular work. Exciting no? While I may be feeling bad for myself, I have zero reason to... perhaps because I decided to stay up until the wee hours (ahem, 5 a.m.) the past night and followed that up by sleeping in until noon (it's Friday, who cares... apparently not I!!)

So I'm a bit off. I worked/cleaned/read for class/worked on getting rid of headache from noon until about 6 p.m. Then the roommates came home and we sat around talking and cleaning out cupboards until 11 p.m. Well, I decided that I should do at least ONE homework assignment and that is where I am now. Finished with said assignment and ready for bed.

Maybe someday I'll be normal. But until then, I'm gonna just have to love having my weekend on a Thursday and my weekday on a Friday night.

Rethinking the Plan

2010-01-28T14:30:00.002-05:00

Seriously, I'm starting to re-think I why I even have the text message option for my phone.

The reason why I even bring this up has been over the last ten messages I've received.

1/28 - 2:20 p.m. EST - "Boobs" Yes. Wow.
1/27 - 12:53 p.m. EST - "Made it to the DC interview stage of foreign service. Last major hurdle to clear." What the hell?! I think it was a mistake from the friend
1/24 - 10:38 p.m. EST - "F" This was in reference to the Vikings losing to New Orleans. Who cares about the NFL? Not I! Then again, I did go and watch the game at a bar and managed to partake in three towers. Oops.
1/24 - 4:58 p.m. EST - "And order a beer tower :-)" re: above note
1/24 - 4:55 p.m. EST - "Around 6:15 ish, we'll need find seats" re: above, yes, this is bizniz
1/24 - 1:50 p.m. EST - "Game Day, whoop!" Intense messages only need apply
1/24 - 9:13 a.m. EST - "Right? I think my boss should meet him." Umm... message made me unhappy seeing it was in response to my meeting Mr. Awesome and how I should have his children
1/24 - 1:21 a.m. EST - "It is quite a tasty beverage. Night!" I guess I have a hard time getting thorough messages through via text. To his response I had to call and EXPLAIN what I had meant.

So you see over the past week little to nothing was accomplished via text messages yet I pay ~ $10/month to have the opportunity to send ridiculous/stupid/useless messages to my friends/acquaintances and only hope that something utterly profound (re: stupid) about sex/drugs/stupid people will cross my screen to make it onto the TextFromLastNight page. But as you can tell, that is likely not to happen. I am somewhat sad over this, to think I'm not good enough for it. But then again, if you're an avid reader, you understand that 90% of the messages posted are from 16-22 yr olds who have yet to understand the word responsibility and well, maturity. I'm not saying I'm the picture of maturity but at least I know what is just wrong with a majority of that posted.

We Grow the Ivy

2010-01-27T17:13:00.002-05:00

Best line of the past weekend:

"I totally understand, I mean, I went to Cornell and couldn't get a job for six whole months. Really, I went to an Ivy League school."

... this is from a girl who was "consoling" a guy that just got done having a very public argument over finances with his long-term girlfriend.

Followed by, second best line:

"I think I did something good today! I feel so good!!"

... after the guy walked away to talk to his girlfriend.

Just add that to the great list of reasons why I can't stand Cornell people and yes, I have had many reasons from the past. And no, I'm not against Ivy League folks. Heck, some of my closest friends are Yale and Harvard Alums. It's really just Cornell. Which, from what I understand, isn't all Ivy. As in, some of the schools within Cornell University don't belong under the Ivy status. Hilarious.

***

School is in full force. I am scrambling each day to do my reading before nodding off to sleep. I am also enjoying a heavier work load. More work means more $$ and who complains about that, not I! Most notably after reviewing flight prices for going back home for Easter, which leads me to this. It is sad and crazy that it's cheaper for a RT-nonstop from DCA to Seattle than it is from DCA to MSP (which INCLUDES a layover). Sick. But then again, I like Seattle, perhaps I should visit sometime soon.

I am still trying to get a hold of this whole weather situation. I mean, I understand that it's warmer in DC than MN, derr. But 60 degrees in the middle of January is a bit ridiculous. Really. It is. I forgot it was just January, I thought it was April and I had missed Easter. Anyhow, I didn't even know it was 60 degrees out until the late afternoon on that day. It took a phone call from my mother announcing that it was blizzard-like conditions in MN while I was sitting in nice, balmy weather. Sad but again, that was good because it meant I was too caught up in work to even know what was going on beyond my bedroom/office.

And that's when I officially knew I had left home... weather no longer matters!

First Day of School

2010-01-20T10:53:00.004-05:00

It has begun! I am now on the journey towards gaining a masters degree. I laugh when thinking back to my first class last night. Like always, I arrive early but am too nervous to go and sit in the room so to kill time I go to the ladies room and then sit out in the lounge. I am too shy to introduce myself to fellow students so I pull out the BlackBerry and clear out my email, write down messages and send text messages. Lame. I know. Some of us need time to scope out the competition and become comfortable with their surroundings.

Finally came time for class. I didn't bring anything but my laptop and a note pad. The professor starts with, "I assume you all brought the syllabus?" Yes, I did... errr... via laptop! While he scolded those who didn't I turn on the laptop and pray for a fast load. Phew Syllabus is up! I don't raise my hand and pretend that I had totally planned to review it via the laptop. I'm still nervous and can only hear a voice in the back of my head saying, this better be worth it ... you're screwed if not! I'm scanning the syllabus and hoping that I have the intellect to make it through and prove to my professor that I'm worthy of entering the higher levels of my profession.

When I snapped back to reality the professor is asking for us to introduce ourselves and tell the class how our education is going to improve our goals. CRAP. I'm doomed they're going to think I'm lame. But as students started to tell of their backgrounds I became more comfortable. I made enemy and ally mental lists. When it came to me I stumble through the last five years of my life and to lighten the mood made a joke about going through international security with dried milk powder. People laughed ... I'm liked!!!

The class went a bit more smooth as I caught on to where the professor was going. Slowly but surely the arms on the clock moved to the 10 and 12. I made it. I made it through the first day of class with no foul play, wahoo! Only a thousand days and pages of reading to go until I get that end favored thing - a piece of paper declaring that I do have a masters.

The Day of the Pomello

2010-01-14T13:54:00.004-05:00

Last night a good friend of mine took me shopping out in Seven Corners (Falls Church) to a market where I was the whitest person there. My friend, who comes from Puerto Rican and Japanese background, loves it for the vast amounts of fresh produce and the crazy cuts of meat that you never knew existed outside of Chinatown. I went for kicks and giggles.

As I walked in I moseyed around picking produce that I loved and could find at the local HT and throwing in a few things that I had NO CLUE what they were. I figured that as long as I knew the name I could figure it out, thanks to the age of the internet. One of the new additions to my produce list was the "Pomello" ... best described as a grapefruit on steroids.

It was a beautiful piece and I had to get it. I yelled over to my friend asking, "Do you know what a PO - MEL - LO is?" He shook his head "no" so I stood there for about 30 seconds and contemplated the purchase. I figured, "what the heck, why not?!" and threw one in my basket.

(14 hrs go by)

So I just broke into it and yes, I did it before looking up what the heck it was! I learned quickly that there isn't that much flesh to it but it's way more delicious than your average grapefruit. I also learned that you need to peel the flesh away from the skin or else you'll be eating something not so tasty. After learning that the hard way I was well into pulling fleshy parts off and inhaling them like candy with the sweet juices running down my chin and all over the counter. It was fantastic and I recommend it to anyone who would love a cross between an orange and a grapefruit.

Welcome to my list of "Fruits I Love" Pomello!

A Country Boy and His Dreams

2010-01-13T17:17:00.000-05:00

A Country Boy and His Dreams

Your Chevy's Blue

2010-01-13T11:29:00.004-05:00

As I was doing my workout walk (ahem, trip no. 2 to the over-priced Giant and to the ABC) I noticed that I was over dressed in comparison to my fellow Arlingtonians. No, I wasn't wearing the latest fashion - I was dress warmly in a down coat, mittens and headband. I looked around and thought to myself,"Wow... I'm from MN, I should be able to take this cold weather, how is it that they (re: locals) don't need the cover-up on this chilly, windy day?" I was bothered by this, thinking I had become weak. But really, I've only been gone for a week and that can't weaken a person that much! But then it hit me. Well, it was more like recalling a comment from a friend of mine with regards to her boyfriend from GA. Folks from cold climates know how to properly dress (unless you're a young fellow from Fargo)And apparently some folks don't (re: southerners)

As I looked at people hastily walking down the street I realized that I was cozy in my layers and didn't need to rush to get anywhere - I could just leisurely walk down the street and not worry about getting frostbite.

This may lead into why MN isn't known for fashion but I certainly can say that I'd take having all of my toes and fingers over looking cute.

Another Year, Another Zip Code

2010-01-11T22:26:00.003-05:00

Well people, as I continue to age I also continue to move. In the past 13 months I have moved four times. Yes, four. It can be annoying and often expensive but then again, staying in one place with no work can also be expensive. This last move, back out to DC (22201 - well, okay, Arlington, VA) was for the purpose of continued education. In eight days I'll be starting grad school and attempting to get a degree that will (hopefully) make me:

1. Make more money
2. More desirable amongst govn't & private agencies
3. Learn the actual laws of the int'l trade land

Cross your fingers folks that this will happen after 3 yrs and $60K in tuition

As much as I loved learning from trial and error I found "error" to be quite expensive and private companies don't like that and government look down upon it, though they were much more lenient.

Right now I'm sitting in my new home still surrounded by crap that needs to be hung/stored/shelved blah, blah, blah but instead of doing that I decided to spend quality time on a failing blog. Also, I'm too angry at my NEW printer/scanner/copier right now. The damn thing won't pick-up the paper - ugh. Really!? I'm about ready to shake it so hard that if it were a live being I'd lose custody.

Anyhow, upset ME will just need to let it cool over night and try again tomorrow...after I watch another episode of Dallas: Season Three (the "Who shot JR!? season)

p.s. Today I signed up for zipcar.com ... after 13 yrs of car ownership I have gone carless and now will only be car-sharing, I have a feeling a post or two may come of the new journey.

Holiday Card from Delta - not as cool.

2009-12-14T16:17:00.001-05:00

I'm sorry Delta (and United) but your butts were totally kicked by AA!

Happy Holidays from American Airlines

2009-12-13T10:27:00.001-05:00

Happy Holidays from American Airlines

Posted using ShareThis

Queen

2009-12-07T17:24:00.002-05:00

A video that has been going around via my friends and fake friends is the Muppets take on Queen's "Bohemian Rhapsody" ... AWESOME. I have now watched it three times and still squeal in delight each time. Luckily I'm back home with my folks thus I have slower internets thus preventing me from watching YouTube all day long.

But if you haven't seen it (re: you've been living under a rock) here it is. Enjoy my friends.

What would you do for a plane ticket?

2009-11-23T12:43:00.004-05:00

Ideas for New Years ...

A. Credit card my flight out to DC for a gala hosted by friends
B. Steal parents car & drive to Canada
C. Sleep through it
D. Buy a handle and just see how the night goes

All seem worthy, now I just need to pick.

A Southern Affair

2009-11-22T15:41:00.003-05:00

I am excited... I have two friends getting married come the warmer months. One in Alabama and one in Georgia. Excited because for once I get to "travel" to two states I have never been in and they aren't in the Midwest. Yes, I'm excited for the girls but this gives a good excuse to knock off two more states on my little list.

****

On another note, I have accomplished the following in the last week:

- Signed-up for 8 credits of classes for my Masters at GMU
- Filled-out FASFA apps
- Got a house line-up
- Started packin-up my office/apt

Next I need to actually PAY for school, book my flight & UPack services and move out of my apt. That is what "needs" to happen before the end of November. Yikes! I will be spending a lovely month at home with my folks (or on friends couches) and getting ready to take the hike (via plane!) out to VA.

I am giddy with excitement over being a student again (this will definately change come mid-February, I'm aware) and to be back with my Urban Family.

As much as I am giddy, I am sad too, to leave my family and to be poor again. It really hit me when I was standing in Macy's and started to tear-up and pout after realizing that shopping will be a thing of the past. Luckily I have been easing myself into this lifestyle by majorly reducing "fun" purchases (one thing a month baby!).

But there will always be Plan B - marry a sugar-daddy!

Holding Pen

2009-10-27T12:21:00.003-05:00

I'm in a holding pen time zone. It's kind of annoying... I have many long days where work is slow, clients are quiet & I don't spend much money seeing I'm trying to save. One day was so dull that I decided to just walk around downtown Mpls and soak in the last few days I have as a resident of the city. As I was sitting outside of the Target on Nicollet Mall tuning up my iPod a man approached me. He had also just walked out of Target and motioned for me to take my ear piece out. I looked at him (probably with a bit of apprehension/annoyance) and he blurts out, "Ma'am...I just spent $15 for a scarf...how does it look?!" After the question he strikes a noble pose. I stifled my laugh and told him that it looked very nice. We spoke for a short while and went on our merry way.

It's moments like those that I'll take away with me in regards to this city. While I'm usually approached (at least 2x week) by people asking for money it was a nice breath of fresh air to get such a silly but honored question. The man was genuine and probably just wanted a compliment from a lady. It actually put a smile on my face and a little kick to my step for the rest of the day. While I praise my home state for their "Minnesota Nice" I don't think we actually live up to it by outsider standards. I think we do a bit more in the country (I forgot that EVERYONE waves to each other when they drive/walk/ride by until the other day when 15 people waved at me during a period of one hour). But I haven't experienced it nor have given it as much - with our general stoic personalities I think an outsider may be confused when they get here. "Why aren't these people smiling?"...."Why don't they come out of their way to see why I'm lost." We are friendly people but that is when it comes to our circles. I don't think we are a great place at welcoming in outsiders. I'm guilty of this and should know better seeing that I have been on the other side.

People think I loved being in the DC area because of the politics or whatever not. Actually it's really because of the openness. It was easy to make friends there because almost everyone was a transient. If you lived there for a semi-length of time you felt obligated to give a bit of guidance to a tourist that has a look of confusion, even if it annoys you so. You welcome newcomers to the group and always invite them to whatever may be going on. You simply understand the loneliness and don't want them to suffer like you had to. You also know that there is no option of "going home" if they are feeling sad.

So while I may feel a bit coupe-d up right now - slow work, moving soon, prepping finances for grad school, perhaps I should enjoy the time of being a Minnesotan and smile a bit more at people and offer a hand of knowledge...you just never know how that can change a persons perception on the place I will always call home.

Season 5

2009-08-13T09:47:00.001-05:00

Coming this September - 17th - on a Thursday evening... a crass, outlandish look into the life I lived for 13 months.

Okay, not really, but it is the Season V premier of "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia"

Day man
Fighter of the Night man
Champion of the sun
You’re a master of karate and friendship…for everyone
Day man, day man
Uhh ahhahh
Fighter of the Night man
Uhh ahhahh
Champion of the sun
Uhh ahhahh
Master of karate and friendship…for everyone
Day man, day man
Uhh ahhahh
Fighter of the Night man
Champion of the sun

Hello...LOVER

2009-08-10T15:52:00.003-05:00

So the other day I decided to give all wedding gift registries the middle finger. What is typically a bridal shower gift was purchased by me. A single, no wedding (OR boyfriend) in sight, lady said "screw it" and bought a Crock-Pot.

I had gone to the local Target to get a few items (re: popcorn & Lysol) and went through the kitchen appliance aisle to do a little dream shopping. While there I noticed a price reduction for the 4 qt Crock-Pots. I couldn't believe it. The dream is there and WAY cheap. Okay, it's not like they are expensive but they are space-taker-upers and for a lady who moves on average every nine months, it doesn't seem logical. These types of appliances are logical for those whgo are settling down and cooking for more than one. "Well," I thought to myself, "will I EVER be a girl who settles?" The answer...probably not. In all reality, I don't think I'm the settling type and that's okay! So why wait for the beloved Crock-Pot to make my list for a house warming gift or a wedding reistry?

I didn't and I'm beyond happy about my purchase. I hate to say it, but buying it made me feel a little more liberated.

Happy Crock-Potting people!

Heights

2009-07-29T10:16:00.006-05:00

Apparently heights mean nothing where I live. As mentioned many times before, I live on the 2.5th story (there's a garden level), as in it's high enough that I wouldn't care to jump from my windows - EVER. Well, okay, I would if there's a fire.

Heights typically give you an additional privacy but not here!

Exhibit A: As I'm munchin away on my lunch yesterday with the living room window open all of a sudden there's a tail...then a body...and some rustling. Yes, a cute little squirrel had managed to climb up the vines and use my ledge for a little lunch elfresco.
Sorry...no squirrel. I was too lazy to get-up and take a photo of him. But this is where he sits often. I wonder if he likes the view the "I-don't-know-the-name-of" Liquor Store, or perhaps the ONE skyscraper you can see from downtown?

Exhibit B: And right now. I'm typing away at some work when all of a sudden I look out my office window at at the face of a man. A man is on the roof of the neighboring liqour store. Men seem to "work" a lot on the roof of that store and I have yet to figure out what the heck they are tryin to accomplish. Again...not the most relevant photo but a much better one - one of the many beer trucks that unload below my window every day.

A Little Ella

2009-07-18T14:24:00.002-05:00

Nothing is more relaxing/satisfying than driving downtown Mpls with the windows down and the sunroof open on the Volvo and blaring a little jazz.

It confuses everyone. And I love it.

***

I like figuring out the ROI on things. On a computer, on a guy, on a new pair of shoes but I cannot, for the life of me, figure out the ROI on my future grad school. I have two choices with two different types of programs and in two different locations. What's the ROI on them? Not a darn clue. Of course one is WAY more expensive than the other & located 1,000 miles away from my family but it does allow for greater networking. The head is tired of thinking but I must choose before the end of this week. Words/advice/wisdom are always welcome.

A Step Back in Ag

2009-07-15T15:15:00.002-05:00

Coming from a farming community and, of course, growing-up on a 5th generation dairy farm I have always been a major advocate of crop & animal agriculture on several levels. It, like everything else, is a business. Yes, it's a way of life, but so is being a baker or perhaps a coal miner. Often times you find yourself with your work and more than in life of leisure with little money to show for it. But that isn't the point I'm trying to make. With this as a backgroud and also my future (I have gone to school & only worked in Ag) I have been disheartened by what is out there that belittles such a massive and necessary industry. To top it all of, it's not just a consumer. These are people who I call not only my neighbor but a colleague in the industry. While they feel that they are "defending" the virtues of the family farm they are actually harming it by sending out mixed messages to the consumer who wants to trust us and know us! I can honestly say that 98% of all dairy farms in the U.S. are family owned & operated. 98%. How many products out there do you buy everyday can you say were created at/from a family owned & operated place.

This group..... "Family Farm Defenders" http://www.familyfarmdefenders.org/Main/HomePage

is crazy.

I wanted to use a much more educated word for them but after reviewing all that is posted on their site I cannot think of a better word than, crazy.

They offer backwards messages. They do not give sound, proven facts. They seem only to be driven by emotion. I'm appalled at such bold statements they make with such a narrow view.

Hey "Family Farm Defenders" I want to help out the family farm too! Let's think about using more sound practices to create less waste, or restructing out of date pricing programs (one that makes sense...a floor is almost as bad at a subsidy). Perhaps we should think of the consumer while we're at it! Does that consumer want to open a head of lettuce with bugs in it? Does that consumer want to know where their food came from? Well gee...let's show them but in a more appropriate way.

From the Farm

2009-07-14T10:09:00.001-05:00

Sent out to all who like to be fed, clothed & sheltered:

I don't know how many of you have heard about or have seen the movie "Food Inc". We just want everybody to know that the way agriculture is displayed in this movie is misleading and false. Our food supply is the most plentiful and safest on earth. The only way we will be able to feed a growing world population is with the use of modern technology in agriculture. We also know for a fact that farmers and ranchers care more for our animals and our earth than anybody else on this planet. By using modern technology we actually use less energy and resources to produce more product, therefore being more "Green".

I encourage everybody to inform other people of the real truth about agriculture when having a conversation about this movie.

I have attached a link to the website for the movie, check it out.

Sincerely

Everybody at Kuball Dairy Farm

http://www.foodincmovie.com:80/

Styx

2009-07-07T10:55:00.003-05:00

If I have learned anything this year it's this...

Don't listen to "Come Sail Away" by Styx on your MP3 player while sitting in a public place (e.g. coffee shop, library, etc.) because it is nearly impossible to NOT break into song.

2nd Day of C

2009-07-02T10:25:00.002-05:00

In honor of the 12 Days of me (my birthday is right around the corner) I decided that waking up at 6:30 am was a dumb idea so I slept in. It's not like I have be at work at a certain time, I work mainly from home & for the most part visit my clients offices on an "as need" basis. It's the week of the 4th, NO ONE wants you to visit their office. So after I decided that I needed more sleep I go back to bed and promplty drift off into a deep sleep that included crazy dreams.

Some of the dreams are vague now & weird but then the others were all too pratical and confusing. I say this because I have a tendency to dream about work. I also dream about errands that I need to make or bills that I need to pay. This morning I dreamt that I managed to buy AA batteries, pay my Excel bill & go for a 30 min walk. I was excited to think that I had done so much! But no, I just got bummed when I find my mouse still dead (lacking batteries), my pedometer at 25 steps (coffee trip only) and my excel bill still needing to be paid.

This are minor things which don't have horrible results but when this starts going over work stuff it gets annoying and frustrating. I often will believe I turly did send that email made that call. Heck, this morning I dreamt that one client told me that they were going to get the latest InDesign program. I was so excited but then it hit me...dream. DAMN!

So as I put things on hold with my procrastination & lack of desire to work yet I bring to you the best video of the summer...

Arlington: The Rap

It's Summer...

2009-06-15T08:15:00.002-05:00

The squirrels in my back alley are making a killing. I just saw one run off with a FULL muffin that was bigger than the size of his head. I think I need to start a health awareness intiative for my neighborhood squirrels...seeing that we may be worrying about obesity rates soon.

On another note, I was super excited about the idea of summer. I now take that excitement back. I forgot that I don't care for hot weather - more like - anything that makes me sweat while standing in one place.

You see, I don't have AC in my little abode, which 9 months out of 12 that's okay, but apparently it's now warm enough out to make my pad uncomfortable at times. I open the window for a nice breeze but then deal with the noise from the liqour store fans right below (go figure a place that sells coolers full of beer would have so many noisey fans!!). It's all good seeing I do live/work alone, thus I really could work in my undies! (Ha! Got you. Don't worry, I don't...gross!!!) Anyhow, these thoughts have left me with mixed emotions about summer.

Maybe I do need a real job in an office where I'll have to wear a sweater cause they keep it so cold, even though they are facing financial hardship with the economy and are doing a million other things to be "green" ... I always loved the irony there.

Men Win

2009-06-08T13:16:00.002-05:00

Yes, I just said that. They win. They win in the fact that they have an easier time saying, "no." No, I won't give you money. No, I won't go to your dumb "party". Just "No". I like it. That's probably why men don't have to face invites to things such as Pampered Chef, Mary Kay or Arbonne parties hosted by their friends. I am obviously not the "market" that these parties typically look for. But is there really a market for them?

We live in an industrialized society that embraces convenience. Since when is it convenient to have to go to somebody's house to look at a bunch of scented candles (which, by the way, give me headaches) and then buy them from a catalogue. Re: They aren't even available that night!

Yes, I just dragged my butt on a 35 miles roundtrip (rarely to people in the city host this kind of crap) to the burbs to LOOK at something that is over-priced and being shown to us by some lady with scary, over-manicured hands and so much gold jewelry on that Mr. T is jealous. Now I'm suppose to whip out my credit card and buy a candle or votive or whatever because I feel guilty that I'm not into the product but my friend won't get the "Hostess" gift if I don't SPEND, SPEND, SPEN!!!

I could have solved my lack of candle issue while running my errands at, let's say, Target. To me, candle is a candle. It serves two purposes - looking pretty or making the room smell less gross. I have found that a $2 candle works just as well as a $10 candle.

If we do get food & drink out of this occasion it's typically wine. Supposedly ALL women like wine. Word. Not all women. I would pefer a G & T or even a whiskey on the rocks...probably the latter of the two seeing I'm surrounded squealing women, pretending to like a pastel candle and how it would go lovely with the beige decor in their livingrooms. Okay, lets make that a double on the rocks.

If I want food containers or candles - I go to Target or some other big box store. I use these items right along with my tp & Klennex's ... I think I'll purchase them together. (If there is a TP buying party, may the Lord help me)

If I want make-up - I believe in places call Target, Macy's, Bloomingdales, etc. There they have a women who can help you at any minute and a lot less girly stuff involved.

If I want a pedicure - I'll support the small biz down the street.

I'm a woman. I want convenience and not to be bothered. I'm busy. If I want to gather with you ladies, I just want to hangout and not feel the need to whip out my checkbook. Throw someting on the tube and place a beer or a G & T in my hand and I'll be happy as a peach.

So yes men, you win. Your "parties" typically involve beer (or liqour) and some chili. Only money lost is from the loser who stinks at poker. Hats off to you and your ability to say no. Because of your ability to do so you don't have to go to tool parties (you guys go to Sears or Home Depot ...where they have hotdogs!) or to card parties (your buddies remind you that Hallmark or drug store is down the road).

I guess the only way I can rid of this bad woman trend is by learning to say, NO!

A Night at Mickey's

2009-06-04T10:29:00.003-05:00

This past weekend I played impromptu DD for a buddy of mine. While I was yawning through the night hours in my old 'hood in St. Paul, downing glasses of water to stay awake he and some of his friend BS'd the time away. I was okay with that but I knew I needed to get to bed soon and well, why must we stay till close? But we did and that was that. So when it came to my turn for leadership (i.e. he had too many shots) I whipped the car onto 94E rather than 94W where we should have gone.

Friend: "Wha...what are you doing?!"
Me: "We're going to Mickey's downtown. I want a grilled cheese and you need food."
Friend: "ahhhh..okay."

And that was that!

When we walked into the diner it was as if we stepped onto stage with the cast of "A Prairie Home Companion" we were just missing GK. We managed to snag two stools at the south end of the counter near the debutantes who had just finished a show at the Ftiz. Now I'm sure you're picturing a bunch of young ladies, so stop there. Nope, these ladies were dressed in sparkling periwinkle dresses with matching boas. They were all tanned, only to enhance their time aged faces but they wore bright fuchsia lipstick and brunette wigs. They were shove into a both in the midst of an "after wedding" crowd. Just as we sat down they started to sing "Going to the Chapel" for the obvious reasons.

Just to the left of us there was a young couple who looked as if they hadn't slept or eaten in days. The girl, dressed plainly, just sat there, all quiet and sipping on her soup and coffee. The guy next to her never uttered on word. As people started to fill in through the door and line-up against the wall the noise only got louder on our north end when the wedding groupies started to play music on the mini-jukebox.

As I was scanning the crowd there was everything. Everything demographic that makes what I call Minnesota. Not one person in the cramped 50'x 10' diner was like the next. Also, you couldn't pick a person out of the crowd and throw them into a common stereotype.

We had our food, watched the ladies sing a few more songs and tipped the waitstaff heavily. After leaving we may have had an encounter with a two civilians and a fire truck which will be for an entirely different post.

But that evening made me think. As I was digesting all that I had taken in during our 1 hr stint at the diner with a friend, who had never been to MN but has two great friends from here, he noted something that stuck with me..."You people in MN, you're very independent people aren't you? You can't say that about the rest of the country, you can pinpoint them and tell them what they like, but in MN you can't do that...can you?"

That's right. We're odd. We vote for crazy wrestlers to be Gov. We elect our own Supreme Court. Just because you love to read the markets doesn't mean I won't donate to MPR. We love to sit on ice and fish and then complain about the cold. We don't judge if you have super white legs come April.

Yeah, unique. That's us. Uff da!

The Line - BRMC

2009-05-28T17:56:00.002-05:00

Life right now ... the encyclopedia answer.

Title: B.R.M.C. (Black Rebel Motorcycle Club) - The Line lyrics

I am the line, I hold you near,
There is no burden left to bear, I can see clear,
You're in suspension, you know no love,
There is no story left to tell, You have no wisdom to pass on,
I am the soul of absolution, No man can hurt his own illusion,
My hands are crippled from the pain, You are the splinter in my vein,
You put your head between your hands, and understand, Nothing it is,
I feel the answers keep you scared, I've put the harm inside myself.

I am the line, I hold you near,
There is no burden left to bear, I can see clear,
I am perfected, I know no void,
I have no conscience to keep clear, I understand there's nothing more,
You try to kid yourself with questions, Pleading in time for some correction,
I found you tied onto the cross, with judgement on your every thought,
You know my words all mean the same, you've buried here to isolate,
And in this prison in your mind, Well you were born without a spine.

When did you stop caring?
When did you stop caring?
Where did you stop caring?
Where did you stop caring?

All along,
I've been waiting on the open invitation,
Your silence shown me no relation,
In the rising calm,
Don't you feel alone,
I'll be standing with your sorrow,
Oh he's left me's gone away tomorow,
And we maynever be here again,
We may never be here again.

Pull me up on either side,
Don't leave me standing alone in the light,
Pull me up on either side,
Don't leave me standing alone in the light.

All along,
I've been waiting on the open invitation,
Your silence shown me no relation,
In the rising calm,
Don't you feel alone,
I'll be standing with your sorrow,
Oh he's left me's gone away tomorow,
And we maynever be here again,
We may never be here again.

I did lose, so back off!

2009-05-20T15:14:00.003-05:00

A long time ago (last year) I got a subscription to Campaigns & Elections (C&E) magazine for kicks. Once the subscription was up I didn't renew seeing I moved onto Fortune & Foreign Policy - really, I need to limit my reading to 2 hrs/day.

Well I just got an email from C&E with this note:

According to our records, you may not be receiving Campaigns & Elections' Politics magazine anymore. If you've lost your campaign and changed your name to protect your reputation, that is understandable. Otherwise, we want you back.

I want to call them and say, "Why yes, I did lose and YES I want to save my rep!!" Really curious as to how they would handle that call, a call that they brought on. Hrm...

Drool Worthy

2009-05-12T13:00:00.003-05:00

Reading the title you may think I'm doing a post on the hottie down the hall (okay, my memory stinks so I have perhaps have a "hottie" make believe image stored in my head and thusly will make it ever difficult for me to actually recognize him in the lobby from here on out).... but with that said - nope this is about what's happening outside of my window right now.

I don't like to think of myself in need for AA - and trust me - I'm not. But hot damn, there are at least 150 cases of domestic beer hanging out within my vision. As in the line of vision I have while trying to work from home. If anything is considered a tease - this is it. To top it off, it's BEAUTIFUL out. As in, the perfect day to crack open a brewskie while sitting on the porch and watch the day pass by. It is probably good that my work does require me to be on the phone nonstop from 9 am - 6pm or else I would meeting my craving right now. Though, if I would handle both at once I could only imagine my next phone call going something like this....

Me: "PSC schpeaking...who's may I help yous?!"
Pro: "Yes, I'm calling about the BIBSTAFF1 - would be be to use this for....etc."
Me: "Whysch YES! Yous can show the kiddies how's itz done on thez wes side of the country!!" *yelling*
Pro: "Okay? Well, then I would like to make an appointment."
Me: "HRM....." *ruffling of papers* "BLEEECH!" *incoherent mumbling* "OK! Found it!!"
Pro: "Ma'am are you okay?
Me: "SHURZ!! What date?? Oops! I just dropped me beer!"
Pro: "I'll call back later." *snap of phone being slammed down*

I don't think my client would appreciate me handling the PSC that way, so I'll just look longingly at the stockpile and make the two guys who are unloading the truck feel uncomfortable with my staring!

Tis the Derby Season

2009-05-02T14:56:00.004-05:00

While I have friends who are donning their cute sundresses, new sunhats and wedges all the while socializing with a nice line of cocktails, hors d'oeuvres and pretty horses I'll be here. And by here I mean by self, sitting in last years dress and hat drinking a Red Stripe while watching the fun times on the TeeVee.

While I love Minnesota - they don't get it. Nope. They don't. They don't see all that is wonderful in a good 'ol fashion derby, one where people are actually civilized and present their finest. Nah. We are a group of health freaks who'd rather jump in our canoe or jog around Lake of the Isles. I love both but seem to have a hard time finding a place that does both. What's wrong with gettin' down and dirty in the soil and then going and taking a shower and throwing on your Sunday best? I've never considered myself much of a southerner seeing my southern born girlfriends cringe half the time I open my mouth and respond to me with, "Only a Yankee would think that way!" (Yes, I'm a Yankee to them!) But then again they've trained me to like sweet tea, say "Ya'll" and squeel over a cute sunhat. My mother questions where the heck I came from seeing my taste is about 50 yrs too late. Needless to say, people have a hard time placing me and well, I do have a hard time finding that perfect fit.

So perhaps I'll just need to start a new trend. I'm sure there are plenty of misplaced southerners who are in MN - perhaps they would like a to join me in watching some fine bred horses run the race all the while enjoying a nice mint julep.

Though, while I look for them, I'm gonna try to find a hat just like this.....(but cheaper) Good lordy - $190!!!

Oh...poor Sec. Nappy!

2009-05-01T16:23:00.002-05:00

What's the Vig on this Action?

2009-04-27T18:02:00.002-05:00

Bad news. Susanna Sue (my Volvo) has issues. For you smarty pants, it isn't because she's a Volvo but more due to the fact that she's old and I think this is her way of getting back at me for bringing her to MN. My mechanic (who is anti foreign cars) just went through a whole list of why I need to get rid of her. I about cried. She's mine and it's the only thing that I actually own with worth of over $1,000. (Not gonna lie - I'm really not into the idea of owning a house.)

So that's it. I guess I'll start looking while she's still healthy enough get me to dealerships. Just not the situation I want to be in - I like her way too much to let go. Who wouldn't love a cute, spacious car that has seat-warmers?!

As for the update on the neighbor - no go. I haven't seen him in over a week. Though, the other neighbor apparently was coming home at the same time that my cousin and I were arriving back after a social night at The Independent. I guess (according to my cousin) that you shouldn't go and knock on someone's door after 3 am. I personally just wanted to make friends and he was nice (also asking us if we were okay due to my key issues - we were but weren't, if that makes any sense). But, of course, this idea didn't come to mind until 30 mins after talking to him in the hall. While I was determined to make a new friend I found my cousin bracing herself against the door, forbidding me of making a house call.

Current # of friends in apt building: 0
# of times I've padded down to the foyer in slippers to get my mail: 12

I hope those statistics aren't related.

Down the Hall

2009-04-25T12:11:00.004-05:00

I have a neighbor just down the hall who I am quite curious about. The first time I met him I was struggling to get up the stairs at 2 am, not because I had consumed too much, but because I was carrying life-sized posters of Chad Greenway from the MN Vikings. He was with another buddy and a girl and I felt quite dorky cause this is what I was doing on a Saturday night - clad in a t-shirt, jeans and sneakers, carrying milk mustache poster boards. He asked if I needed help (it was very apparent with my grunting and climbing the steps at the speed of a snail) but I refused. Finally, as they waited for eternity to get to the 2nd flight of stairs he upped and grabbed the end and walked me to my door. I was embarrassed to say the least and mumbled a weak "Thank you."

The next time I saw him, I was rushing into our building all sweaty due to being at the gym earlier. He was out having a smoke and tried to make small-talk with me while I attempted to open the door with my poorly cut key. I was feeling kinda dumb, so I kept my eyes on my keys and just mumbled a "hi". Weak, I know.

The last time I saw him I was making a bit of noise at my door (stupid keys) and felt someone staring at me from down the hall. Of course it was him. I smiled and finally made my way into my apartment and slammed the door shut. Even weaker, got it.

I don't know what his deal is. Perhaps I'm a bit amusing to have around seeing I have issues with carrying stuff, opening doors and seem to always be at my worst. I don't know if he's fascinated or or what but it's apparent that he finds some form of fascination with me. I am half tempted to bake some cookies and leave them at his door (of course I'll knock and run away) but I'm afraid that it might give the wrong impression

(Not gonna lie, for years I always wanted to be that neighbor who brought over the "housewarming" casserole....but it just never felt right.)

I think I should attempt to get to know him seeing I am dying for new friends in my new location, but how should I go at it without seeming creepy? (I swear, everything is considered "creepy" or "stalking" these day...)

I guess I'll just have to let it play out; it's bound that we'll run into each other again.

Happy Earth Day and No, I will not give you a dollar.

2009-04-22T09:08:00.003-05:00

I would like to consider myself a caring person - one who will donate their time and money for a good cause. I am bothered by homelessness and the increase in it due to our current economic times. But there is just something about a certain person who I saw on the street the other day that made me lose all sympathy.

As I was walking downtown Minneapolis with my friend we walked past numerous beggers. Some tried to talk to you, others just sat there and held a sign. With each one we passed I felt awful and secretly hoped that they weren't actually in such a dire situation. I also made a mental note to sign-up to help out at a shelter soon. As we were about to cross to another street a cigarette box was tossed across our path. We turned to see who had done this, surprisingly enough it was an older gentleman clad in dirty clothes and sitting against the building holding a sign asking for money. (And let me note: there was a trash can 10 ft from the man)

The guilt left me immediately and fury set in. My friend just smiled and kept walking as if she hadn't seen a thing I, on the other hand, went into a rage of why I wouldn't give him a dollar because I just paid that to him with my tax dollars paying to pick-up his trash. I didn't say it directly to him but made sure to say it loud enough while standing at the corner waiting for the light. Call me heartless but if you don't take the time to respect your surroundings, like heck I'm gonna help you out.

Though after my little stumpfest, two blocks later I tripped and pulled a muscle in my foot.

I got the message.

The Post Office

2009-04-13T09:28:00.002-05:00

I love the post office - so much to the point that I convinced myself that I needed to get my own P.O. Box (and yes, there's a purpose for it....work). Anyhow, I took a good amount of time picking out my 'local' Post Office based on hours, location, type of building and parking. I found one down on 1st St. in Mpls and with each visit fall a bit more in love with it. That is....until today.

I got cat-called. Twice.

Now I have been cat-called before, by construction workers, on the streets of SanFran and by GW undergrads but never would think that I would be cat-called while walking to Window 7 to send some 1st Class mail and buy some stamps and to top it off, I had just come from the gym. What is so sexy about a girl with sweaty hair, workout pants (loose) and scuffed sneakers and, AND no make-up? I'll tell you. Nothing! I know it's Monday and you're probably still asleep seeing it's 8 in the morning but good gracious, don't cat-call a girl at the Post Office.

I wonder what I would've gotten if I had actually looked nice?

April Fools - Not Engaged

2009-04-01T09:24:00.005-05:00

Today is April 1st. I am not participating in anything. Why? Let's see, the last two years I was engaged and the year before ('06) with child. Those are the big cards and well, they've been used and now it's just considered "cryin' wolf" as far as I see it. The sad thing is, so many people believed it for the last three years. I don't know what that says about me.....loose and don't care about future? I'd hope friends/family know me better than that!

Granted, after this past weekend I think I may need to step-up the game of maturing. As in, never agree to a date after midnight and then enhale too much wine.

What I can't wait for today is the announcing of the "Rock the Garden" line-up!!!

And word came out that Ms. Lancaster is doing an '80's theme for her book tour of Pretty in Plaid - how awesome is that? I have a feeling that '09 is all things '80s (re: Rosslyn film line-up). I think I'll have to participate in all that I can.

Ready to Hire

2009-03-27T17:11:00.003-05:00

It's 5:10 pm on a Friday and I have a problem.

There are a million happy hours going on around this city and I am co-workerless.

Next on agenda - get assistant and do a lot of happy hours to make up for lost time.

Mother Nature

2009-03-23T10:28:00.001-05:00

I don't like you...........

Today is the first day I'm working from home in 4 weeks and guess what? Yeah....you decided to have it rain ALL DAY LONG. Not cool. Not cool at all.

..........Fail

2009-03-20T21:58:00.002-05:00

Okay the cake challenge never happened (yet). Instead I have found myself working into the nice hours of the AM each night this past week while spending daylight within the confines of elementary and jr. high schools in Mpls/St.Paul. Please let's say that I now check "Teacher" off of my list of potental career changes.

I am still in a half-furnished apt but it's getting cozy. The roommate is excellent (note: I live alone). But I consider it 400 sq ft of bliss with the biggest walk-in closet I've ever owned. No twenty-something-year-old could ask for more. Okay, yes they could and I've got it - the liquor store & CVS & Jimmy John's are all on the same block. Jealous?

I want to complain and moan about life but really I can't. Other than the crazy woman who sits in my back alley and the man who liked to follow me around a store my life has been pretty dull. Granted I have found that my new 'hood isn't the most fitting for me seeing I'm a caucasian who votes typically (R), doesn't own a guitar and prefers a suit over a peasant skirt. Other than that, it's a perfect match!
I sometimes wonder what my neighbors think of me. I'm here at odd hours (note: work from home most days), I "dance" to the classical music that is played in our lobby and drive a clanking Volvo that is always filled with Vikings/Milk paraphanalia.

And now I'm blasting Styx and Foreigner at top levels....to to you below....love thy neighbor!

The Cake Challenge

2009-03-12T23:57:00.003-05:00

Okay people, I've got a new challenge. No, it's not me attempting to find furniture that actually fits my quaint studio or re-vamping a company PowerPoint, nope, I'm doing a useless challenge.

I'm making a spaceship.

In cake form.

I may only have about 13 inches of counter space but I think I'll manage it.

My inspiration (other than beating a 25 yr old who's version of culinary art include noodles and sauce) it this photo......

$14.99

2009-03-03T23:10:00.003-05:00

One day while speaking to an old co-worker (while employed at previous place) my co-worker said to me, "You need to write a book about all you do." I looked at her as if she had three eyes and was speaking in Thai. I like to think my life is somewhat adventurous but I have never found it to be book worthy. For example - right now I am sitting in a bed at a crappy hotel that I picked from a fool proof photo (the hotel does not have hot water - I am not a happy camper), I have a cold and each day for two wks I don a red t-shirt and hangout around middle school kids who could care less if I ever existed. Not to mention, when I'm done doing this I head back to my hotel room to have a "fun" night in a deadly city which usually consists of me working, watching/listening to news, exercising and IMing friends.

Don't worry, I'm not boohooing my life right now. I'm more than anything getting jumpy! I'm excited to have my own apt again, but right now it's only a place in which I've paid good money for to sit empty for a full week while I live in a hotel. This time on my little domestic (StL residency) I have gotten to spend time getting to know a few new people who are quite nice and actually intereting. Oh and who doesn't love the randoms they meet on the plane? Like the guy who yelled at me for touching his bag? Or the kind African lady who was ready to give me CPR after nearly collapsing on the plane after running the entire length of ORD for the last flight to MSP?

These people and places have left many-a-good stories for me to reminisce about and I wish I could bank of them, but I'll probably have to settle for them just being blog worthy.

But if I were to have a book....what ever would I title it?

Hrmmmmmm.......

"Adventure of a Dairy Girl"

"Desperately Seeking Princess Kay"

"Mooving My Way"

Cheesy, I know. Which reminds me,

Happy 6th Anniversary 3-A-Day!! Have you had your 3-A-Day of Dairy today?

I miss from the college days.

2009-02-25T19:09:00.002-05:00

I watched movies where there were "peace protests" and "sit-ins" and the like but never witnessed too much on my two campuses. Yeah, there were camp outs on the lawn to recognize homelessness and the typical political protests/counter-protests which were more than fun to be a part of. That's college. But obviously I went to a pretty lame school where we didn't have the GREAT REVOLUTION.........

WATCH IT NOW - regardless of your thoughts on the current day democratic process you'll surely laugh your butt off and well, shake your head while praising yourself for never acting like this during your Enlightened Years.

Oh I wished I was an NYU student.

A Couch.

2009-02-24T20:55:00.004-05:00

I have a couch theory.

Now in my mid-more to later-twenties I find myself a lot of decent furniture.... a double bed, a twin bed (with frames), peronally designed desk and lingerie bureau, refinished antique monograph stand, smoking stand....etc. I am not without. Except for a couch.

Why? Or how? As in, how is it that I can own all this other furniture and not own a decent couch? How could I have gone from place to place during/after college and never fully aquired my own couch? Sure I had a $20 piece of crap my senior yr and a parental hand-me-down but they weren't worthy of keeping when I moved east on a $100 budget. So I did without and relied on crappy couches that my roommates owned.

But still, as you may wonder, how is it that I am like this? The theory is simple. To me a couch means settling. And if you know me, that is a hard concept for me to swallow right now. People ask me where I live and the best answer is "out of a suitcase". Sure I am currently at my parents house (for the last 3 months) and before that I was out east in two cities and before that I moved between Ames, Fresno, St. Paul and Mpls during my collegiate years. But those were only a few moves of the past before the several moves of the future. So why would I want to invest a quality/heavy piece of furniture when I still have a lotta leaving left to do?

Answer - don't.

Problem - I am now taking over a 6 mo lease in Mpls.

To me this could be temporary or turn into something a little longer. Not sure. But do I want to put up with visitors not having a comfy place to sit when they visit? Would I subject them to sitting on pillows on the floor for an entire six months? I would like to think I'm a bit more hospitable than that but that means I need to swallow my theory and purchase a couch. I don't want to go the college route and buy any old thing that fits in a $50 budget....not I want an adult couch.

So there we have it. I think I need a couch. It stinks. I am trying to save $$ for whatever move the future may bring me (job relocation/grad school/shopping spree to Bloomingdales downtown Chicago ......), you just never know.

But if I am to purchase a couch hopefully I can find something similar to this -

By the way - I never knew this could be so annoying but someone who finishes EVERY sentence you try to say is beyond annoying and will force you to speak faster so they can't figure out what you plan on ending your last comment/thought with.

Eye of the Tiger

2009-01-29T23:23:00.002-05:00

Tell me how it is possible that I JUST downloaded the song, "Eye of the Tiger"?! Seriously, as I'm pumping through to create the most awesome of awesome workout playlists....I realize that I don't have "Eye of the Tiger". I about smacked myself after that revelation. It's me for goodness sake - the girl who loves Rocky....who chose to move to Philly off of that one movie.

So needless to say, it is downloaded and I am ready to find some steps to run up.

By the way - I managed to watch news tonight - news based out of Winnipeg, Canada. I loved it, just when I think my accent is getting the better of me since I've moved back to the northland, I turn on that and feel so much better about self.

Speaking of accents......

Now there is one thing I have mixed feelings about, the new Renee Zellweger movie, "New in Town" - oy.

If you don't know, it's about a fashion laden/career driven girl from Miami who is transported to (gasp!) New Ulm, MN.... Oh the HORROR! I watched the two trailers. First, I will say that it looks cute. But why, of all states, must it be Minnesota?!? Haven't we had enough? I just hate that is gives off all of these mispreceptions about MN. Such as, we are weird talking folks (it's not as bad as they convey it to be), that we have zero sense of fashion (we do...it's just difficult to clomp around in stilettos when there's 3 feet of snow), that we are uncultured (hrm...most theater seats per capita other than NYC...gee, I guess we're a bit behind!) or that we find things, like the lake being frozen enough to drive on, as the main highlight of our day (trust me, it's nice to know when I can drive across the lake but it isn't THAT big of deal).

So, why can't there be a movie that shows what MN is really like? Clean. Healthy. Literate. Politically aware. Humble. And darn tootin' cute. (Just a few ideas)

By the way....for the people who are marketing the movie - New Ulm, MN is NOT considered northern MN....it is south, central MN. Get it straight you you supposedly smart, witty people.

Comfort Inn

2009-01-28T23:09:00.002-05:00

A few things I have enjoyed thus far in NoDak -

- What would be crappy hotels in a big city are charming and clean (and offer free wireless)
- Preferred news source - FoxNews
- More political than ever expected
- Speed limit is 75 mph and NO traffic
- Heavy German accents
- Road condition reports go to the Canadian border
- Everyone is pretty darn nice and if they aren't they even come off nice for not being nice (odd, but totally makes sense)

Even though I don't think I'll ever live here I guess the state has made quite the impression on me. Perhaps if I come around to meeting a nice man with 1,000+ acres in the great tundra of NoDak, I'd consider it. Just as long as I was within 1 hr of an airport of some sort.

NoDak

2009-01-24T23:17:00.007-05:00

I'm heading to North Dakota for week. Yipee! I'm looking forward to getting out and talking to dairy farmers but I'm not excited to be doing this at the end of January in one of the most coldest/flatest places in the U.S. If I don't return - you'll know where to look ..... somewhere between Bismark and Fargo. I'll be a solid ice cube.

Though, before the trip is to commence, I will be spending a good portion of my Saturday evening reviewing a PowerPoint and mapping my trip across the icy trunda. The big suitcase is already filled with Got Milk? goodies and the 59 min. plane travel from MSP to FAR has been declared. Yes, I'm taking a plane..from Minneapolis to Fargo....I don't like driving, can you tell?

Though, lest we not forget that no trip to New Salem is complete without visiting....
SALEM SUE!

The Gym.

2009-01-14T23:18:00.003-05:00

Remember that whole anonymous thing? Well add to the list that I no longer can workout without knowing people. One of my brother's farm employees attends my gym. The part of this is I didn't realize it until about the 5th or 6th time of attending. I had noticed a boy that looked familiar but I chalked it up to being in a small town. Then it seemed weird how he would nervoulsy look away whenever I'd walk by. We never spoke - he always was working the free weights and I was pumping it in the cardio area. Finally it hit me - "He's one of the farm boys!!"

You may think I'm odd seeing I've seen this guy on the farm every morning for the last 6 wks but trust me, people look WAY different when they aren't head to toe in Carhartt and cow poop. Even though I figured this out, we still aren't on talking basis there. We chat at the farm but I'm waiting to see how long it was before he says at least "Hi".

I'm a little excited over this test to see how long it is before he breaks and have a hard time keeping my mouth shut. It's as if I have a secret and now know a lot more about him. (Ummm...yeah, totally know what kinds of funny faces he makes in the mirror when working the weights, hilarious!) So to add to this lazy attempt to play a game with someone it gets even better.

You see, I have been keeping my baby (the Volvo) in the heated shop at the farm so she won't go into shock in the subzero MN weather. I had a list of things to get done today....bring meat to Grandma, drop goodies off and flirt at new house, get meat cooler for DC trip, drinks with M and GYM. I run over to the shop and open the door only to see Worker Boys' pick-up in the way. (GAH!) I debated. Do I just move it or do I steal my dad's pick-up?? Seeing I've missed my baby I hop in hs pick-up and turn the key. VOOORM! Yes, you got it right. The thing is classic ghetto country pick-up with pipes. Love it and still can't figure out why boys like that. Then I hit a gold mine of infomation. While in the pick-up I noticed on the floor of his passenger side a container of whey protein. It hit me....the poor boy wants MUSCLES! I'm sorry, for I'm a huge supporter of whey protein for health reasons - as a means for muscle repair - but I know the motive behind a young 20-something boy. He's not looking to be the picture of health by exercising and replenishing. He's looking for some pipes and is trying to do it be excessive weight lifting and whey protein. Even though I was giddy over this bit of info I felt a little sad too. Maybe I should break my game and talk to him....perhaps an ego boost?

Hrm.

*********************DRINK OF THE WEEK*********************

To celebrate my vacation to western VA for some R&R with my best buddies:

The Manhattan
3/4 oz sweet vermouth
2 1/2 oz bourbon whiskey
1 dash Angostura® bitters
1 maraschino cherry
1 twist orange peel

Cheers!

Dear America,

2009-01-13T21:11:00.002-05:00

Stop whining about the economy and having false hopes based on rhetoric.

And um, one more thing. Please remember this one thing that you seem to have forgotten over the past 8 years.........

"What is popular isn't always right and what's right isn't always popular."

Just remember America, I like you, even though you're a bit spoiled and have forgotten how good you've had it. I want to keep liking you more than all the others. So please don't ruin yourself with worse spending habits and playing with the bad kids. It's just not healthy. Just sayin'.

God bless you America!

Best,

Me.

Anonymous

2009-01-12T18:16:00.002-05:00

I can't lie. I miss being anonymous. It is - to some people - not fun being anonymous but to me, it's a luxury. I moved from a city where I was fairly anonymous even after 1 year. I'm not saying walking around downtown, but even in my neighborhood I loved and loathed it. I loved it...cause it meant that I could go and do whatever I pleased and never have to worry about running into people and doing the forced smalltalk. I loathed it cause it meant that I didn't fit with the community. It meant I didn't belong there.

But now I'm back in the 'hood I grew-up in. I look a bit different and I haven't seen most people for at least 3-5 yrs but they remember me. I can't pick-up my dry cleaning or have lunch at the cafe by myself without running into someone I know - OR knows me. (sidenote: more people know me than I them for the fact that I did a PSA on the public cable network as a dairy ambassador one year. I'm still well known for that, oy!).

I miss the luxury of going to the grocery store for milk in my sweaty garb after the gym and not one person knew more, or even cared! Actually, the only time someone knew me was just another sweaty gym goer doing the same thing.

But I do have to say, it is fun (sometimes) running into relatives at the gas station or seeing some folks from church who I adored growing up. I just hope I remembered to match my socks!

If Only Wonkette.com Hired GOPers

2009-01-06T23:11:00.002-05:00

In pj's with slippers on, sitting in comfy chair, laptop running and fireplace burning

C-SPAN & C-SPAN2 on TV

I'm watching the opening of the 111th Congress (while working, thank you very much!). After 2 hrs of non-stop Gchat about what's happening my friend replies -

"You are not allowed to liveblog congress to me."

No MJ for me, thank you very much.

2009-01-06T14:17:00.002-05:00

I was going through some old photos with my other the other night. We were laughing at my silly tea party pics and the way I would wear my seed cap hat to mock my brothers' styles but then we came upon some golden ones. One where I was about the age of 10 and up in Brainard visiting Paul Bunyan. My friend and I came upon some cutouts - one of Michael Jackson and one of Ronald Reagan. Guess which one I chose to pose next to? Another photo shows me clad in campaign stickers and t-shirt for a family friend. There were more photos to that liking.

It may explain as to why I'm liveblogging the Opening of the 111th Congress to my friend right now. Or why I read the WSJ religously every day. Or why I workou to CSPAN. Or why my Dad and I will talk for hours about local politics.

Cinderella or Ariel?

2008-12-31T10:41:00.002-05:00

You know you're at "Grandma's House" when the choice of band-aids include only the following:

Ariel, Dora, Cinderella or Snow White

Why can't they make ones for young adults...? I wouldn't mind Master Shake or Meatwad.

Almost 2009

2008-12-23T15:53:00.002-05:00

While I'm attempting to work from home - which can be challenging to say the least - I am also prepping/educating myself for a new blog. Not a Ginny by any means. This blog will solely for the purpose of communication within the Ag industry. I am a very basic person when it comes to knowledge of the web and it's endless tools so that is why I am prepping myself prior to my TBD launch date. Seriously, my knowledge on CSS is very limited to the days when I managed the country websites for my job at the trade council ... let's just say, this may be a long education session.

The reason why I want to do this came out of my desire to get back involved in increasing awareness between the Ag community and the rest of the world. I want to throw in a few new (boring?) twists to it. I don't just want to write/report on how the cow's are doing and talk about the market prices. I want to mix the on-the-farm view of policy happening in ALL regions, nationally and internationally and mix them together.

Test:

In Sept of 2008 in China - what was the big scandel about?
Who won the 2008 World Series?

Which one could you answer more easeily? More people could tell you who won the World Series but are clueless to the melamine in dairy (produced in China) scandel.

New question:

Which one of those events affects your life the most?

Yeah...the melamine issue.

98% of us involved in the Ag/Food industry knew about this but still are limited to geting the info - REAL info - out on what is going on, what this means to us (U.S. Ag) and what this means to YOU (the consumers). That makes me more upset than anything. How could somethin SO huge go unnoticed to so many people?

And that is why I'm going to start a new site. It's just a drop in a very big bucket, but hopefully that drop will be met by many more and lead to an overflowing bucket. I hope that by the time I leave this earh the consumer will actually understand the products they take in on a daily basis.

************

If you see a girl at the gym on a Friday night, bouncing away on the eliptical, pumping her fist in the air and yelling at the TV screen that is airing C-SPAN 2 .... it just might be me.

The C-SPAN Plan

2008-12-19T18:39:00.003-05:00

I still have PA license plates and ID but by golly I have a gym membership in the closest city to the farm! Can you see what takes priority in my life? The gym isn't anyting fabulous (though, I have to say, the eye candy is quite nice).

Killer Chic

2008-12-15T14:36:00.003-05:00

Can anyone explain this to me? When we live in a era where we idolize what the celebs of the west are doing... adopting 3rd world babies, promoting green tech & so forth - it is hard to understand how these people who consider themsleves so righteous (I mean, they do think they are so great that who the vote for is whom you ought to vote for) wear t-shirts and caps with pics of Che. Che, a man who has killed many under communism, is far from a person you should be associatng yourself with if you have any concern for humanity. If you do not know the history of Che you are a very sad person who has been living under a rock and/or we really need to bring our schools up to speed in the history dept.

This is all the more reason of why I refuse to listen to the crap that celebs tout for many of them are just a bunch of hypocrites concerned with money and fashion.

Check out the latest piece on the fashion trend here.

Shot of the Past

2008-12-04T00:02:00.003-05:00

So I moved home to the farm in MN. I'm living with my parents for a short while, helping them get ready for the new house they are building and taking a new gander into what I want to do with my fruture. It's day three and I'm already going a tad crazy - but we'll see if I can get use to it.

Now, I DO love my parents and how they have handled me thus far. I have been trying to thank them for the FREE room & board by helping like crazy and making their meals. I almost went as far as packing my mothers lunch for work tomorrow (but she beat me to it).

It will take a bit to get use to...such as my poor car will never be as clean as it once was now that I'm back on a gravel road. Or the fact that I'm living out of the room that I grew out of when I turned 14. I was very happy to leave my home area in the past and move on....now I'm back in it and on top of that having to re-live good portions of it for I have been spending the last few days going through old momentos of Jr. High, High School & college. I'm cool with college stuff seeing it's still pretty recent but I look back at photos, cards, love letter, etc. of years earlier and I think the same few things over...

- I guess I wasn't THAT ugly
- Wow, I was so immature - can't believe they were even friends with me
- How was I that popular then?
- Glad to never have to re-live those years again

Let's just say I have 3 BIG garbage bags full of the past that will be burned and be kept as the past.

Now onward to the future!

The Last Lunch.

2008-11-24T13:52:00.002-05:00

I did it. I made it through a year of uncertainty (only to be followed-up on with more!) and the challenges

Dear Cleaning Dude

2008-11-20T10:06:00.001-05:00

You seem like a very nice man.

Corner Work Need Not Apply

2008-11-19T11:59:00.002-05:00

I have a friend that needed a hobby. Hobby idea given to her: find me a job and potential housing in MN or DC (yeah, I'm getting back into politics....mayyyyyybe).

Once given the task she sarted to find a lot of random jobs that seemed only to be best marked as "interesting".

Jobs Selected:

- Marketing for random group (okay)
- Karaoke manager (umm, no)
- Ad researcher (sounded shady at best)

Before I could let her go on I decided to lay some ground rules....

1. requirement should not include: Must be able to stand at corner for long periods of time and accepts only cash
2. Costume wearing
3. Maid with costume options
4. Involves going into campus bars late at night
5. Wearing a headset
6. Anything that requires door-knocking

Before eHarmony there was Hoard's Dairyman

2008-11-17T11:00:00.004-05:00

I'll admit it for I am very guilty of my own pre-"e" days when I was searching for The One. At a young age a lot of the magazines that littered my dad's desk were farming/dairy based mags. Seeing I loved to read anything available I would pick-up the magazines to read about the latest technology with milking parlors or a new way to handle a displaced abomasum.

Soon I learned that whenever they did an article about a farmer, they ALWAYS included age and location. From then on I started to grab all magazines possible....Hoard's Dairyman, Progressive Dairy, Country, Holstein World, etc. to check out the latest crop of elgible bachelors. It was a great pre-screening process cause when you do a write-up about the farmer you typcially include the stats of the farm. As in, number of acres, techniques used, herd head-count and so on. Pop in a picture to show him by the livestock or tractor and then I know which breed of animal and implements he preferred.

My list was a bit particular:

Holstein
1,000 acres
300+ head
John Deere
Chevy
Age: 25-33
Owner (or co-owner)
Uses technology
Belongs to at least one association

I continued this tradition throughout college - it wasn't hard to go into the Dairy Science Dept. reading room and gather up the magazines. But I found that the habit soon waned off once I moved away from the farm life and lacked the subscriptions. It is also awkward seeing boys that I actually knew from my collegiate days in there. But I have a feeling this may start-up again seeing I'll be located back on the farm for awhile and yup, still single! Yeah, there may be technology to do the screening, like eHarmony, but I prefer to do my market research the old school way.

I think I'll make it my new morning coffee break habit.

Best Evite Ever....... I mean EVER

2008-11-14T10:04:00.002-05:00

Okay, you got it. I'm moving. Blah, blah, blah...it was tough for me to move away from MN friends & family and then from DC to Philly but it's only getting worse. More than anything it's gonna be tough leaving the quick access (3 hr drive) to DC for a fun weekend of spirits, sports, friends (urban family), gluttony AND political drivel.

But the last time in DC (as an east-coaster) will be spent at a b-day bash for two buddies. As I opened the Evite for the party I realized that all those times I've asked myself, "How is it that I'm friends with y'all?" this evite pretty much sums it up. We are all very much like one another. Humor - check. Ideals - check. Politcs - check. Check, check, check!

So to share - here's what the Evite said:

Join us to mourn the passing of yet another year for these two political hack Valentine babies. Bring your Halloween fatigue, prepare for holidays and family fatigue, and help the two old fogeys trying to lift themselves out of their post-election doldrums and malaise. (Ok, fine - it's really more Tony who can't tell up from down right now; Chris is taking the loss pretty well.)

November surprises aplenty will be in store. We'll have lots and lots of wings. Seriously. Would Tiger Woods and Mammy Ahmadinejad do any less?

Names A-M bring intoxicating liquid spirits. Wine ok, but NO WINE COOLERS.
Names N-Z bring chips, dips, or otherwise tasty snack products.

Updated Gameday odds:
- The milk-stealing rando from the last Pirate Party comes back. 37:1
- Random gunplay. 15:1
- Tony throws (or golfs) something off the balcony. 7:1
- Chris sings karaoke. 5:1
- Tony throws Chris off the balcony after karaoke. 5:2
- Tony divorces the wife again after she brings wine coolers. 10:3
- Chris says something that transforms Shannon into Chainsaw. 4:1
- Something explodes. 3:1
- Chris & Tony get into a fight over Article II vs. Article I of the Constitution. 2:1
- Running out of Bourbon. EVEN MONEY.

Street parking is available. Crystal City & Pentagon City Metro Stations are closest, and if you really care about the Birthday Boys, you'll be drinking with them and shouldn't be driving.

~~~~~~~~

Yup. I'll miss these guys!

Resignation

2008-11-10T14:06:00.005-05:00

It's done and in the books.

Words present: Challenge - Immersion - Success - Prosper - Rewards - Lessons

Last Day - November 24th

It's quite a relief and (shhh!) exciting. I've come to desire the nomadic lifestyle. I will actually miss living out east for two reasons - proximity to so many cities and my 'urban-family' have been awesome. Not to say that I will not enjoy being back in my homeland and near those family and friends - but I know it will be a difficult transition. So, for those of you there, please note that I love you and am excited to be back; it's just that for a while I may be a bit sad and missing what I've called home since 2006.

So the transition weeks are ahead. Here's to hoping I do not have to replace my timing belt/water pump at the expense of $1,100 that I was quoted this morning and that I will get a decent U-haul trailer this time around. Also, here's to saying goodbye to the things I will not miss.....

1. warm winters
2. tolls
3. nasty traffic
4. expensive gas
5. snobs that consider me from "fly-over" country
6. bad grocery stores
7. scary newscasts
9. slimy(er) politics
10. fake aura & rhetoric

Though as I say adios to them with not a tear, I will hug a dear goodbye to:

1. life-long friendships
2. convienence - transportation
3. the ocean
4. D.C. & policy wonkers
5. early America (history)
6. cheeseteaks & Rocky
7. Rosslyn Beach
8. PCC (both)
9. good shoe smiths & cheap dry cleaners
10. frequent flyer miles