Cleaning - Completed
I feel so accomplished. I finished my huge list of cleaning and also managed to finish a scarf I was knitting. It is green and longerish. I know, really descriptive, but it looks nice and I like it. Also, it's just in time because I think next week is the final hurrah for the warm weather. It is supposed to be almost 80 here on Monday, and then they are predicting the major storms. As long as it doesn't tornado my house down, I'm Ok.
My parents are going to be here for the weekend. They just called to tell me they made it to their hotel ok, and tell me their room number. I have a swimming suit and towel contraption all packed ready to soak in the hot tub tonight! I am going to need it too. I worked out hard this week. Lots of squats and lunges and running - on a treadmill instead of the elliptical. I feel pretty ok right now, some sore back and legs, but Wednesday I was so sore. I would look at the flight of stairs I have to climb to get to my desk at work, and they would do the dreamscape become a mile long thing in my mind. I had to pysch myself up to go up (and down) them. I really planned my trips for a two days. That was from Tuesday's workout. Thursday I worked out as well, and that whole theory on the 'hair of the dog that bit you' really does work.
Tomorrow is Karate, so any lingering soreness may go away then. Sunday is supposed to be so nice, I'll probably play softball in the park and go to the batting cages once my parent's leave. It will be a fun weekend having them here! Hm, speaking of... I should really go pick up Trevor from the airport and then go pick up food and meet my parents at the hotel for the aforementioned hot tub.
Sunday, September 24, 2006
Crazy Cleaning Frenzy
I told myself that today was a cleaning day. I could sleep in, but not past noon, and then I had to begin the cleaning on my list. It has been six hours, and I haven't accomplished as much as I wished I had, but I have attacked a lot. I have dusted the house and cleaned the bathroom. I have organized the garbage and recycling to go out tonight. I have organized the pantry, kitchen, and linen closet. Left on my list, you ask?
The problem with the 'leave it' theory? Tuesday I think I may go golfing. Wednesday perhaps to the Twins game. Thursday is happy hour, and Friday my parent's are coming to visit. That leaves the rest of today and perhaps tomorrow night. I think I'm going to go find a small snack and then attack my room.
I told myself that today was a cleaning day. I could sleep in, but not past noon, and then I had to begin the cleaning on my list. It has been six hours, and I haven't accomplished as much as I wished I had, but I have attacked a lot. I have dusted the house and cleaned the bathroom. I have organized the garbage and recycling to go out tonight. I have organized the pantry, kitchen, and linen closet. Left on my list, you ask?
- put away summer clothes and take out winter ones
- make bags of clothes not worn this summer to take to goodwill
- repack the closet (part of the above two, but also some minor maintenence of boxes contained within
- organize bookshelves (have decided I require a third bookshelf. May head out to purchase tonight, but more likely will go on list of things to do tomorrow
The problem with the 'leave it' theory? Tuesday I think I may go golfing. Wednesday perhaps to the Twins game. Thursday is happy hour, and Friday my parent's are coming to visit. That leaves the rest of today and perhaps tomorrow night. I think I'm going to go find a small snack and then attack my room.
Friday, September 15, 2006
Birthday Fun
Last night, a bunch of people went out to help me celebrate my birthday. We went to the Wild Onion, which if you have not been there for birthdays, you are missing out! If it is the day of your birthday, they give you a free t-shirt, a pound of chicken wings, free alcohol in a huge mug (until 9PM), and balloons. I forgot the balloons at the restaurant, but they would have been a pain to drive home with anyway. (No, I was not driving. That would have been silly considering the size of the mug and the fact I drank 3 of them.) After the Wild Onion, most people came to my place to eat ice cream cake and chill for a bit. I was quite squiffy by the end of the night, but had a great time.
Jenni is in town for the long weekend, and tonight we are going to go climbing, and tomorrow I may go climbing, I think others are going to the Ren Fest. Saturday night we might go dancing, and the Sunday is sleep and football. In that order :P
Last night, a bunch of people went out to help me celebrate my birthday. We went to the Wild Onion, which if you have not been there for birthdays, you are missing out! If it is the day of your birthday, they give you a free t-shirt, a pound of chicken wings, free alcohol in a huge mug (until 9PM), and balloons. I forgot the balloons at the restaurant, but they would have been a pain to drive home with anyway. (No, I was not driving. That would have been silly considering the size of the mug and the fact I drank 3 of them.) After the Wild Onion, most people came to my place to eat ice cream cake and chill for a bit. I was quite squiffy by the end of the night, but had a great time.
Jenni is in town for the long weekend, and tonight we are going to go climbing, and tomorrow I may go climbing, I think others are going to the Ren Fest. Saturday night we might go dancing, and the Sunday is sleep and football. In that order :P
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
A pictoral history of Labor Day
First stop, the packer game. Even though my Packers were trounced, it was still a great time. Plus, our beer man rocked! He made a special trip to get me and mine some Mike's Hard Lemonade, even though they usually make you go get it yourself. Beer man, you rock.
Second stop, Door County. First Karin, Trevor, and I made a really large pile of wood w/ my dad. Dad and Mom had started the pile the week before. Then, we burned it. This is after the fire had been going for a while. The pile was quite a big, so big infact we started our reserve pile (on the left, the chiken looking fire) on fire too. Oops.
No, I didn't really start Dad's tractor on fire, but it did take a fun picture.
Sunday Trevor and I went to the corn maze. We didn't get lost, and managed to find all 18 little stamps. We decided it would be great fun to go back in w/ the map in our pocket, get ourselves lost for 30 minutes and then try to get back out (without map of course).
From the bridge of the corn maze (the picture above is the map on that bridge) one can see a cow excreting an ice cream cone. That's how fresh the ice cream was at this place. No doubt.
We also went to some wineries, and cave point, and mini putting. Lots of fun packed into one weekend! Whee.
First stop, the packer game. Even though my Packers were trounced, it was still a great time. Plus, our beer man rocked! He made a special trip to get me and mine some Mike's Hard Lemonade, even though they usually make you go get it yourself. Beer man, you rock.
Second stop, Door County. First Karin, Trevor, and I made a really large pile of wood w/ my dad. Dad and Mom had started the pile the week before. Then, we burned it. This is after the fire had been going for a while. The pile was quite a big, so big infact we started our reserve pile (on the left, the chiken looking fire) on fire too. Oops. 
No, I didn't really start Dad's tractor on fire, but it did take a fun picture.
Sunday Trevor and I went to the corn maze. We didn't get lost, and managed to find all 18 little stamps. We decided it would be great fun to go back in w/ the map in our pocket, get ourselves lost for 30 minutes and then try to get back out (without map of course).
From the bridge of the corn maze (the picture above is the map on that bridge) one can see a cow excreting an ice cream cone. That's how fresh the ice cream was at this place. No doubt.We also went to some wineries, and cave point, and mini putting. Lots of fun packed into one weekend! Whee.
Thursday, August 31, 2006
Quick Post
I'm going to work, then off to Green Bay to watch the Packers play at Lambeau Friday afternoon. Then it's up to Door County for a bonfire and fun. A weekend away from the State Fair, yay!
I'm going to work, then off to Green Bay to watch the Packers play at Lambeau Friday afternoon. Then it's up to Door County for a bonfire and fun. A weekend away from the State Fair, yay!
Sunday, August 27, 2006
Nic e Suprise
Have I mentioned how much I dislike the fair? At least, I dislike living by it. I do like it. I enjoy the all you can drink milk, for example. Oh, and the baby animal barn. But living by the fair, that can suck. You get people parking in your lot (ie the two twits down there now), you get people littering on your lawn, you get to listen to the music - whether you want to or not, and it's dirty.
Still, there are good things. Fireworks everynight, seen from the balcony. The grandstand does have good shows. I went to one last Thursday. Great show - The Magic Numbers (who only got to play two songs because it monsooned adn their equipment was drenched), Sonic Youth, and the Flaming Lips. I would have enjoyed the show more, however, had I not lost my ID and bankcard right before the show. They fell out of my pocket while I was running through said monsoon. I thought they were gone forever, but I had a nice suprise.
I wonderful Minnesotan, or perhaps just a wonderful person, found my idea floating down the river/street, picked it up, and brought it to the gate. They contacted me, and I have it back. That is the extremely short version of the story, but hits the main point...someone brought it back. How great is that? I have to get a new bankcard, because the company put a hold on this one as I'd reported it had gone missing, but that is a minor inconvienence. Whee.
Have I mentioned how much I dislike the fair? At least, I dislike living by it. I do like it. I enjoy the all you can drink milk, for example. Oh, and the baby animal barn. But living by the fair, that can suck. You get people parking in your lot (ie the two twits down there now), you get people littering on your lawn, you get to listen to the music - whether you want to or not, and it's dirty.
Still, there are good things. Fireworks everynight, seen from the balcony. The grandstand does have good shows. I went to one last Thursday. Great show - The Magic Numbers (who only got to play two songs because it monsooned adn their equipment was drenched), Sonic Youth, and the Flaming Lips. I would have enjoyed the show more, however, had I not lost my ID and bankcard right before the show. They fell out of my pocket while I was running through said monsoon. I thought they were gone forever, but I had a nice suprise.
I wonderful Minnesotan, or perhaps just a wonderful person, found my idea floating down the river/street, picked it up, and brought it to the gate. They contacted me, and I have it back. That is the extremely short version of the story, but hits the main point...someone brought it back. How great is that? I have to get a new bankcard, because the company put a hold on this one as I'd reported it had gone missing, but that is a minor inconvienence. Whee.
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
Busy busy
I thought when I finished school things would calm down. After all, I wasn't doing homework all night long, working as many hours as I could, and doing homework. Apparently not though. I seem to have less hours in the day, not more. Some of it is my fault. I need to designate days where I stay home and work on things there. I keep going out and having fun. I've picked up golf again with a vengence, and even bought new clubs this weekend. I've started climbing again, though grant it...I could do more. I'm doing moring aerobics/spin classes before work. This week is odd though as I have training Wed/Thurs all day on campus. Back to school. :)
After work is golfing, or canning foods with Karin (lately anyway), or any number of other random things. This week I went to Trevor's softball game last night, golfing tonight, wednesday I'm setting aside to clean, Thursday I am going to the Fair - and that's a post for a different day..., and Friday either happy hour or to makeovers or to some yet unannounced third thing. Or all three. I never get to read anymore :(
I've been working at my job for a month. It's starting to become easier. Not necessarily the material I do, but understanding what they want me to do. As I get into my routine, I'm sure hours will open up here or there. I miss chilling with all my friends whenever I want. It does suck when you get up at 5, because the nights all of a sudden are so much shorter. (Or they should be if you want to be somewhat aware of what is going on at work.)
I'm taking a personal holiday over Labor Day weekend to go to Door County. Hopefully that is nice and relaxing.
I thought when I finished school things would calm down. After all, I wasn't doing homework all night long, working as many hours as I could, and doing homework. Apparently not though. I seem to have less hours in the day, not more. Some of it is my fault. I need to designate days where I stay home and work on things there. I keep going out and having fun. I've picked up golf again with a vengence, and even bought new clubs this weekend. I've started climbing again, though grant it...I could do more. I'm doing moring aerobics/spin classes before work. This week is odd though as I have training Wed/Thurs all day on campus. Back to school. :)
After work is golfing, or canning foods with Karin (lately anyway), or any number of other random things. This week I went to Trevor's softball game last night, golfing tonight, wednesday I'm setting aside to clean, Thursday I am going to the Fair - and that's a post for a different day..., and Friday either happy hour or to makeovers or to some yet unannounced third thing. Or all three. I never get to read anymore :(
I've been working at my job for a month. It's starting to become easier. Not necessarily the material I do, but understanding what they want me to do. As I get into my routine, I'm sure hours will open up here or there. I miss chilling with all my friends whenever I want. It does suck when you get up at 5, because the nights all of a sudden are so much shorter. (Or they should be if you want to be somewhat aware of what is going on at work.)
I'm taking a personal holiday over Labor Day weekend to go to Door County. Hopefully that is nice and relaxing.
Thursday, August 17, 2006
DONE!
I’m done! I finished Grad School! Yesterday, I defended my thesis, and passed my oral exam. Thus completes 7 years at university and two degrees. I feel…
I’m not sure what I feel. I know it hasn’t sunk in yet. I’m elated, and sad and happy and tired. Mostly tired. Drained I think would be a more accurate verb. I am scholarly drained. I have so much to do at home, and I look at the messes I have to clean up and think…tomorrow, or the next day, not now. I will get to the dishes, and to the messes. But right now I’m spent.
Part of me is thinking what next. I have my Bachelor’s and my Master’s. PhD? Maybe. Not yet. I need more time to learn things. Right now I have my job and I am VERY SLOWLY integrating into my work there. Very slowly learning all I need to learn, going through hours and hours of training. I have more days where I feel comfortable, but some still where I feel like I know nothing, I’m behind, and I’m lost. Those feelings will fade I think, or at least diminish into the background as I catch up to the others, but eep.
It will feel very strange not going to school after Labor Day. For 23 years I have gone to school every fall. This will be the first time I haven’t. Ever. I don’t know what I’m going to do on September 5. I may morn, I may jump for joy. I may plan a happy hour to celebrate. We’ll see.
Speaking of happy hour, that’s what I did last night with my coworkers. Go out and celebrate my ability to continue working my job (because it was contingent on finishing my degree in 6 months).
Now I just hope that the rain stays away long enough to go golfing tonight.
I’m done! I finished Grad School! Yesterday, I defended my thesis, and passed my oral exam. Thus completes 7 years at university and two degrees. I feel…
I’m not sure what I feel. I know it hasn’t sunk in yet. I’m elated, and sad and happy and tired. Mostly tired. Drained I think would be a more accurate verb. I am scholarly drained. I have so much to do at home, and I look at the messes I have to clean up and think…tomorrow, or the next day, not now. I will get to the dishes, and to the messes. But right now I’m spent.
Part of me is thinking what next. I have my Bachelor’s and my Master’s. PhD? Maybe. Not yet. I need more time to learn things. Right now I have my job and I am VERY SLOWLY integrating into my work there. Very slowly learning all I need to learn, going through hours and hours of training. I have more days where I feel comfortable, but some still where I feel like I know nothing, I’m behind, and I’m lost. Those feelings will fade I think, or at least diminish into the background as I catch up to the others, but eep.
It will feel very strange not going to school after Labor Day. For 23 years I have gone to school every fall. This will be the first time I haven’t. Ever. I don’t know what I’m going to do on September 5. I may morn, I may jump for joy. I may plan a happy hour to celebrate. We’ll see.
Speaking of happy hour, that’s what I did last night with my coworkers. Go out and celebrate my ability to continue working my job (because it was contingent on finishing my degree in 6 months).
Now I just hope that the rain stays away long enough to go golfing tonight.
Monday, August 14, 2006
I have returned, I hope...
I really need to get back into blogging on a regular basis. I was doing so well before I started my job. Now I spend 9 hrs/day in front of my computer, so I really don’t even look at it at home. I guess that’s normal. Part of the problem stems from my doing training 8 hrs a day – internet based training. Really don’t want anything to do with the internet by the time I’m done for the day. Plus, I’ve been busy after work, and before work too.
I joined the fitness center at work, so I’ve been going to work for 5:45 to do fitness classes from 6 to 6:45 and then showering and going to work for 7:15ish. That’s Tuesday – Thursday. Mondays and Friday’s I’m going in at the normal times (for 7 or 7:30). The last few weeks I’ve gotten back into golf. Yes, I’m a yuppie. I golf. What’s more, I can golf at a Country Club should I desire. I admit it. However, I’ve always enjoyed golf. I know some people think golf courses are abomination, and perhaps they are…but I like walking around in the sun. Concentrating on hitting a wee ball from one place to another with the ultimate goal of getting it into a small hole keeps my attention and gives me respite from the rest of my worries. I don’t usually drive a cart, so I get my exercise. Also, it gives me 1-4 hours (depending on how much and how fast I play) of time to chat with whomever I’m playing with. So there! Anyway, I bought a new golf bag this weekend and I’m going to play 9 holes with a girl from work tonight to try it out. Friday’s I have been trying to get back into climbing. I’ll buy myself a membership again in September. Right now I’m paying by the time and Friday’s are half off for ladies. So, the only things athletic that I’m missing are my rollerblading, and running. I really do have to work on both. I’m not sure I’m going to skate the marathon this year. I’m just not sure I’ll be ready in a month to skate it. I certainly hope so, but eep. Maybe I’ll do the half marathon instead? Could be fun. Running is good for me, but I suck so badly at it that I just don’t do it.
After work I’ve been either golfing, or chillin with friends, or going places. I think life is going to settle down after this week though. This week I defend my Master’s Thesis – on Wednesday. After that I’ll be done (hopefully) with my requirements to graduate and I’ll be able to just concentrate on work and home and fun. This weekend was nice, it was the first weekend in a month or more that I got to relax. Sunday I slept in past 2PM. I haven’t done that in so many ages it’s not funny. I’m not going to make a habit of it, don’t get me wrong, but once in a blue moon it’s good to do. It rained all day here, which truly helped the sleeping. I woke up and had breakfast at 4PM, then made strawberry-rhubarb pie, and then watched movies.
Still this morning I was tired. Not sure how that happened. Oh well. I am slowly getting used to going to bed by 11 at the latest as I get up at 5 most mornings. I should get to bed by 10, but one step at a time, right?
I really need to get back into blogging on a regular basis. I was doing so well before I started my job. Now I spend 9 hrs/day in front of my computer, so I really don’t even look at it at home. I guess that’s normal. Part of the problem stems from my doing training 8 hrs a day – internet based training. Really don’t want anything to do with the internet by the time I’m done for the day. Plus, I’ve been busy after work, and before work too.
I joined the fitness center at work, so I’ve been going to work for 5:45 to do fitness classes from 6 to 6:45 and then showering and going to work for 7:15ish. That’s Tuesday – Thursday. Mondays and Friday’s I’m going in at the normal times (for 7 or 7:30). The last few weeks I’ve gotten back into golf. Yes, I’m a yuppie. I golf. What’s more, I can golf at a Country Club should I desire. I admit it. However, I’ve always enjoyed golf. I know some people think golf courses are abomination, and perhaps they are…but I like walking around in the sun. Concentrating on hitting a wee ball from one place to another with the ultimate goal of getting it into a small hole keeps my attention and gives me respite from the rest of my worries. I don’t usually drive a cart, so I get my exercise. Also, it gives me 1-4 hours (depending on how much and how fast I play) of time to chat with whomever I’m playing with. So there! Anyway, I bought a new golf bag this weekend and I’m going to play 9 holes with a girl from work tonight to try it out. Friday’s I have been trying to get back into climbing. I’ll buy myself a membership again in September. Right now I’m paying by the time and Friday’s are half off for ladies. So, the only things athletic that I’m missing are my rollerblading, and running. I really do have to work on both. I’m not sure I’m going to skate the marathon this year. I’m just not sure I’ll be ready in a month to skate it. I certainly hope so, but eep. Maybe I’ll do the half marathon instead? Could be fun. Running is good for me, but I suck so badly at it that I just don’t do it.
After work I’ve been either golfing, or chillin with friends, or going places. I think life is going to settle down after this week though. This week I defend my Master’s Thesis – on Wednesday. After that I’ll be done (hopefully) with my requirements to graduate and I’ll be able to just concentrate on work and home and fun. This weekend was nice, it was the first weekend in a month or more that I got to relax. Sunday I slept in past 2PM. I haven’t done that in so many ages it’s not funny. I’m not going to make a habit of it, don’t get me wrong, but once in a blue moon it’s good to do. It rained all day here, which truly helped the sleeping. I woke up and had breakfast at 4PM, then made strawberry-rhubarb pie, and then watched movies.
Still this morning I was tired. Not sure how that happened. Oh well. I am slowly getting used to going to bed by 11 at the latest as I get up at 5 most mornings. I should get to bed by 10, but one step at a time, right?
Wednesday, August 09, 2006
Damn
I suck. I have been meaning to post, but have been stupid. So much has happened, I'll have to reread what I've read to figure out what I have to update. I can say that work is good. It's still crazy and I get overwhelmed occasionally. All my coworkers are great about helping me out when I have no idea if I'm coming or going. It's actually quite amazing how quickly I've figured out parts of my job. Did I really start only 3.5 weeks ago? Eep. The time is flying though. Soon I'll blink and I'll have been there 40 years, like the guy who's aniversary (to the company) party I attended this afternoon.
OK, would write more, and will - promise, but right now I'm hungry and need to not be on the computer anymore...
I suck. I have been meaning to post, but have been stupid. So much has happened, I'll have to reread what I've read to figure out what I have to update. I can say that work is good. It's still crazy and I get overwhelmed occasionally. All my coworkers are great about helping me out when I have no idea if I'm coming or going. It's actually quite amazing how quickly I've figured out parts of my job. Did I really start only 3.5 weeks ago? Eep. The time is flying though. Soon I'll blink and I'll have been there 40 years, like the guy who's aniversary (to the company) party I attended this afternoon.
OK, would write more, and will - promise, but right now I'm hungry and need to not be on the computer anymore...
Monday, July 24, 2006
Oops
I've been so good lately about posting, and now I've waited 10 days again. Two weekends ago was a family reunion back home. It was a fun time, but very hot - 102 degrees. There was some shade to be had, but ich. Still, it was good to see people and meet some I didn't know. Before we headed over there, my cousin Jill and I went swimming for a few hours. She is 7 mo. pregnant, and the water feels nice, less weight on the body. I'll be headed back that way in two weeks for her baby shower.
This past week was my first week of actual work. There is a lot to learn, and I feel I'm not learning it quickly enough. I have a LOT of training to do...at least 40 - 50 hours, and that's without retention time added in. With that, and out of house trainings, and meetings, and etc. I'd say I have another month or so of hard learning. Still, it feels good to be challenged, and my supervisor is really understanding about it all. Monday of last week I met some people at Blarney's pub for 6 dollar pitchers, pool, darts, and karaoke. Katie and I rocked the house with "I Will Survive" and gave "Shoop" our best effort. It was cool to go celebrate, even if it was a weeknight :)
This weekend was uber busy as well. Friday night I went to a house party, Saturday I volunteered at the Raptor Center, which may become a semi-normal thing, the went shopping with Katie for pretties, and then went out dancing. I only made it til 1:15 out though, too hot and tired. Then yesterday I went outdoor climbing, climbed three routes all the way to the top (I've not been outdoor climbing in ages and ages!) , and bruised my toes really really badly. They are black and blue under my toe nails. Ouch. After that I came back here, had dinner out, and went for a walk. Poof! Weekend gone.
Now it's back to the grindstone. All weekend I was like, "shit! Have I done my homework? What am I forgetting??!" It's going to take a while to get used to the ole 9-5. Or, in my case either 7-4 or more likely 7:30 to 4:30...
I've been so good lately about posting, and now I've waited 10 days again. Two weekends ago was a family reunion back home. It was a fun time, but very hot - 102 degrees. There was some shade to be had, but ich. Still, it was good to see people and meet some I didn't know. Before we headed over there, my cousin Jill and I went swimming for a few hours. She is 7 mo. pregnant, and the water feels nice, less weight on the body. I'll be headed back that way in two weeks for her baby shower.
This past week was my first week of actual work. There is a lot to learn, and I feel I'm not learning it quickly enough. I have a LOT of training to do...at least 40 - 50 hours, and that's without retention time added in. With that, and out of house trainings, and meetings, and etc. I'd say I have another month or so of hard learning. Still, it feels good to be challenged, and my supervisor is really understanding about it all. Monday of last week I met some people at Blarney's pub for 6 dollar pitchers, pool, darts, and karaoke. Katie and I rocked the house with "I Will Survive" and gave "Shoop" our best effort. It was cool to go celebrate, even if it was a weeknight :)
This weekend was uber busy as well. Friday night I went to a house party, Saturday I volunteered at the Raptor Center, which may become a semi-normal thing, the went shopping with Katie for pretties, and then went out dancing. I only made it til 1:15 out though, too hot and tired. Then yesterday I went outdoor climbing, climbed three routes all the way to the top (I've not been outdoor climbing in ages and ages!) , and bruised my toes really really badly. They are black and blue under my toe nails. Ouch. After that I came back here, had dinner out, and went for a walk. Poof! Weekend gone.
Now it's back to the grindstone. All weekend I was like, "shit! Have I done my homework? What am I forgetting??!" It's going to take a while to get used to the ole 9-5. Or, in my case either 7-4 or more likely 7:30 to 4:30...
Friday, July 14, 2006
Girls Night
Last night was girls night. Katie and I prepared dinner for Jenny, Erin, Karin, Cheyenne, ourselves and my roommate. Great food was eaten, wine was had, ice cream was had, and gossip was had. It was a great time. We'll definately have to do more of those.
Today was damned hot and it's only supposed to be warmer on the weekend. So happy I'll not be here. Speaking of, I should go pack...
Last night was girls night. Katie and I prepared dinner for Jenny, Erin, Karin, Cheyenne, ourselves and my roommate. Great food was eaten, wine was had, ice cream was had, and gossip was had. It was a great time. We'll definately have to do more of those.
Today was damned hot and it's only supposed to be warmer on the weekend. So happy I'll not be here. Speaking of, I should go pack...
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
Note to Self:
Self's body dislikes immensly the high fructose corn syrup.
I talked to a nutritionist at the end of the school year about eating healthy, etc. I mentioned my tummy ailments, and she mentioned that fructose can cause such things. Mostly when one is working out, if one has it, one gets tummy cramps. But for some people, like me, larger amounts of it when I'm not working out cause tummy cramps at night.
Why was this an issue last night? Because I was drinking Red Bull/vodkas. Red Bull has EXTREMELY high amounts of the fructose. I had almost two full cans of Red Bull, rather right before bedtime. So bedtime went from12AM to 1AM to 3AM to...I tried to sleep, got up and journaled. Tryed to sleep again, got up and got Maalox and a glass of water. Tried to sleep again, got up and moved to the couch where I slept fitfully for 4 hours or so. I felt better after 7 AM when I got up to use the bathroom and drink yet more water. Slept until 10 but then got up because, seriously, it's getting too hot in my room by then to be in the bed. It's damned hot in the Twin Cities this week, and will be nigh on 100 F by the end of th week. YUCK.
I'm heading to DC for a family reunion this weekend. It will reach 90 there, but should be nice lakeside. Hopefully I'll get to play in the lake this weekend. Swimming, sunbathing, cooler air; all would be nice . Still, 90 is better than 100 and where I'll be staying has A/C. Much happieness. Here there is only bags of frozen veggies, shopping, and the library to keep cool.
I think I'll go see if laying in the hammock is any cooler than moving about the house.
Self's body dislikes immensly the high fructose corn syrup.
I talked to a nutritionist at the end of the school year about eating healthy, etc. I mentioned my tummy ailments, and she mentioned that fructose can cause such things. Mostly when one is working out, if one has it, one gets tummy cramps. But for some people, like me, larger amounts of it when I'm not working out cause tummy cramps at night.
Why was this an issue last night? Because I was drinking Red Bull/vodkas. Red Bull has EXTREMELY high amounts of the fructose. I had almost two full cans of Red Bull, rather right before bedtime. So bedtime went from12AM to 1AM to 3AM to...I tried to sleep, got up and journaled. Tryed to sleep again, got up and got Maalox and a glass of water. Tried to sleep again, got up and moved to the couch where I slept fitfully for 4 hours or so. I felt better after 7 AM when I got up to use the bathroom and drink yet more water. Slept until 10 but then got up because, seriously, it's getting too hot in my room by then to be in the bed. It's damned hot in the Twin Cities this week, and will be nigh on 100 F by the end of th week. YUCK.
I'm heading to DC for a family reunion this weekend. It will reach 90 there, but should be nice lakeside. Hopefully I'll get to play in the lake this weekend. Swimming, sunbathing, cooler air; all would be nice . Still, 90 is better than 100 and where I'll be staying has A/C. Much happieness. Here there is only bags of frozen veggies, shopping, and the library to keep cool.
I think I'll go see if laying in the hammock is any cooler than moving about the house.
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
WHEEEEEEE!
I am ecstatic, exuberent even! I have finished Draft Two of the Thesis. It took me longer than I had anticipated, but I added 10 pages of typing, and went from 17 to 35 pages. (I know the math doesn't work out, but I added a lot of formatting too, and more appendices). My corner of the room is hot, and humid, and I don't want to sit at this computer anymore for a while. I'm going to go get cleaned up at treat myself to lunch w/ a friend. I rock! I'm awesome! Wheeeeeeeeeeee!
I am ecstatic, exuberent even! I have finished Draft Two of the Thesis. It took me longer than I had anticipated, but I added 10 pages of typing, and went from 17 to 35 pages. (I know the math doesn't work out, but I added a lot of formatting too, and more appendices). My corner of the room is hot, and humid, and I don't want to sit at this computer anymore for a while. I'm going to go get cleaned up at treat myself to lunch w/ a friend. I rock! I'm awesome! Wheeeeeeeeeeee!
Monday, July 10, 2006
Naughty, Naughty Self!
I'm a very naughty self. Here I am blogging when I said I would work on my Thesis. I have finished editing the first half, and added 3 more pages of type. The next part will be the hardest. I have the methods, results, and conclusions to finish. That part was only four pages in my first draft (the first part being 6, this of straight type, ignoring figures and tables). I added three pages to the first part and really should add 6 to the section I'm working on now. I want it to be a good 30 pages when I'm done. It has to be. (Yes, 9 + 10 does not equal 30. I'm saying 30 with the figures and tables and pictures and etc.) Writing this is so hard though, I learned to write in 'engineering school', where concise was good. Say what you have to say and be done with it. Let your figures, your bullet points, and you tables talk for you. Explain what they mean, don't restate what they are, etc. There is red all over my paper. Apparently in Public Health, a more flowy, less scientific voice is appreciated. Oh, still sound learned just do it in a friendly manner. Poo. I need more tea, that is the ticket. That is more classical music.
On a happier note, I have perservered and have triumphed over the leviathan that is the campus health service. All I asked was that they send a fax to my new place of employment stating that I may wear a respirator even though I have very mild asthma. Not hard, they could have hand written it on the note I give them and faxed it back. Takes 3 minutes tops. Or it takes 3 minutes for those of us regular type people. If we are from the health service it takes 2 weeks, 3 administrative assistants, all of the nurses, one doctor, one dictation expert, and 17 phone calls. Still, I finally got them to send the letter off to my employer's human resources division. Whee! I am proud of me.
Today so far I have accomplished the above defeat of the leviathan, the first have of my thesis, the dishes, a 2-3 mile run, sit-ups and stretches, getting clean again (hot out), and lunch. I guess I'm not a very naughty self after all. Still, I should stop stalling.
I'm a very naughty self. Here I am blogging when I said I would work on my Thesis. I have finished editing the first half, and added 3 more pages of type. The next part will be the hardest. I have the methods, results, and conclusions to finish. That part was only four pages in my first draft (the first part being 6, this of straight type, ignoring figures and tables). I added three pages to the first part and really should add 6 to the section I'm working on now. I want it to be a good 30 pages when I'm done. It has to be. (Yes, 9 + 10 does not equal 30. I'm saying 30 with the figures and tables and pictures and etc.) Writing this is so hard though, I learned to write in 'engineering school', where concise was good. Say what you have to say and be done with it. Let your figures, your bullet points, and you tables talk for you. Explain what they mean, don't restate what they are, etc. There is red all over my paper. Apparently in Public Health, a more flowy, less scientific voice is appreciated. Oh, still sound learned just do it in a friendly manner. Poo. I need more tea, that is the ticket. That is more classical music.
On a happier note, I have perservered and have triumphed over the leviathan that is the campus health service. All I asked was that they send a fax to my new place of employment stating that I may wear a respirator even though I have very mild asthma. Not hard, they could have hand written it on the note I give them and faxed it back. Takes 3 minutes tops. Or it takes 3 minutes for those of us regular type people. If we are from the health service it takes 2 weeks, 3 administrative assistants, all of the nurses, one doctor, one dictation expert, and 17 phone calls. Still, I finally got them to send the letter off to my employer's human resources division. Whee! I am proud of me.
Today so far I have accomplished the above defeat of the leviathan, the first have of my thesis, the dishes, a 2-3 mile run, sit-ups and stretches, getting clean again (hot out), and lunch. I guess I'm not a very naughty self after all. Still, I should stop stalling.
Sunday, July 09, 2006
Fourth of July
The week before the Fourth and the Fourth weekend were great! Rachel was visiting from her new home in Ithaca and we had much fun. We went to see Body Worlds at the Science Museum Thursday. I highly, highly recommend it to everyone, even very littles. Great exhibit. We played Mini-put in the "Big Back Yard" there too. The theme was source to sink, talking about waterways and pollution, etc. Rachel had an interesting habit of launching her ball from Source to next mini put hole...I'm not sure water can do that, but it made for an interesting 9 holes :) Thursday evening we went climbing...first time in about 6 months for me, and I was SORE afterwards. Then after that we went dancing.
It was so very hot on Friday that we ended up mostly relaxing, watching "The Muppet Show" episodes, and putting frozen bags of vegetables on our heads. I had been at the Raptor Center all morning, after only getting 3 hours of sleep, and I think the combo of the heat there and the activities of the day before wiped me out, hence the staying home. My tummy was not a happy camper.
Saturday Karin, Rachel and I went to DC for the Fourth weekend, but didn't get going quite as planned. As Karin states, it's the bee that stung her in the AM's fault. The extremely summed up version of the story is that Rachel's car was towed because we couldn't remember the date, and her mom had to rescue her by convincing the police to give the car back. They weren't going to give it to us because her name isn't on the title (sister-car) and so we would have been stranded here. On the plus side, we got to watch both the start and end of the England/Portugal World Cup game. Still, after much haggling, the car was returned to us, and we set off for DC.
We got in late - 9:30 on Sat, so we didn't set up tents, but slept in the house instead. Sunday we had girls day, the three of us and my mom went to the olive oil bar, the winery, the market (dinner of brats very important to Fourth of July celebrations), and the the mini-put course. This mini put course contains hazards, water, rocks, rough...just like real course. Great fun. After brats we had a wonderful fire at the property, I drove papa's tractor (1940's ...much fun!), and gormet smores were eaten.
Monday morning Rachel headed for her parent's place, and Karin and I went to the lake to lay on the beach and possibly swim. When the water was seen, the swimming was right out. Lake Michigan had turned itself into a gigantic serving of pea soup. Damn algal blooms. So, walking the beach and avoiding the zebra muscle shells and tanning on lawn chairs w/ our books was the order of the day. We thought about the fireworks as we drove back from the lake and stopped at the candle place, but it decided to rain, so we played Cranium instead. We did get to see the finale to the fireworks from my aunt's driveway, and it was very pretty.
Tuesday the Fourth dawned bright and clear, and Karin and I raced the Hairpin Run 5K in Fish Creek. This was the first year that it has been chip timed. I got a little recipt with my time and average mile and place in my age and overall. Very cool. I sucked it up running though. The time was not terrible, but I felt aweful running. I forgot to use my inhaler before the race and felt it each and every step. Next year. Actually, I'm tempted to work so that by October's race up there I can run better and make myself feel good for the winter. We'll see.
So now I'm back in the Twin Cities, working on the next draft of my thesis and waiting to start my job. That's a whole different story that I'll tell at a later date.
The week before the Fourth and the Fourth weekend were great! Rachel was visiting from her new home in Ithaca and we had much fun. We went to see Body Worlds at the Science Museum Thursday. I highly, highly recommend it to everyone, even very littles. Great exhibit. We played Mini-put in the "Big Back Yard" there too. The theme was source to sink, talking about waterways and pollution, etc. Rachel had an interesting habit of launching her ball from Source to next mini put hole...I'm not sure water can do that, but it made for an interesting 9 holes :) Thursday evening we went climbing...first time in about 6 months for me, and I was SORE afterwards. Then after that we went dancing.
It was so very hot on Friday that we ended up mostly relaxing, watching "The Muppet Show" episodes, and putting frozen bags of vegetables on our heads. I had been at the Raptor Center all morning, after only getting 3 hours of sleep, and I think the combo of the heat there and the activities of the day before wiped me out, hence the staying home. My tummy was not a happy camper.
Saturday Karin, Rachel and I went to DC for the Fourth weekend, but didn't get going quite as planned. As Karin states, it's the bee that stung her in the AM's fault. The extremely summed up version of the story is that Rachel's car was towed because we couldn't remember the date, and her mom had to rescue her by convincing the police to give the car back. They weren't going to give it to us because her name isn't on the title (sister-car) and so we would have been stranded here. On the plus side, we got to watch both the start and end of the England/Portugal World Cup game. Still, after much haggling, the car was returned to us, and we set off for DC.
We got in late - 9:30 on Sat, so we didn't set up tents, but slept in the house instead. Sunday we had girls day, the three of us and my mom went to the olive oil bar, the winery, the market (dinner of brats very important to Fourth of July celebrations), and the the mini-put course. This mini put course contains hazards, water, rocks, rough...just like real course. Great fun. After brats we had a wonderful fire at the property, I drove papa's tractor (1940's ...much fun!), and gormet smores were eaten.
Monday morning Rachel headed for her parent's place, and Karin and I went to the lake to lay on the beach and possibly swim. When the water was seen, the swimming was right out. Lake Michigan had turned itself into a gigantic serving of pea soup. Damn algal blooms. So, walking the beach and avoiding the zebra muscle shells and tanning on lawn chairs w/ our books was the order of the day. We thought about the fireworks as we drove back from the lake and stopped at the candle place, but it decided to rain, so we played Cranium instead. We did get to see the finale to the fireworks from my aunt's driveway, and it was very pretty.
Tuesday the Fourth dawned bright and clear, and Karin and I raced the Hairpin Run 5K in Fish Creek. This was the first year that it has been chip timed. I got a little recipt with my time and average mile and place in my age and overall. Very cool. I sucked it up running though. The time was not terrible, but I felt aweful running. I forgot to use my inhaler before the race and felt it each and every step. Next year. Actually, I'm tempted to work so that by October's race up there I can run better and make myself feel good for the winter. We'll see.
So now I'm back in the Twin Cities, working on the next draft of my thesis and waiting to start my job. That's a whole different story that I'll tell at a later date.
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
Employment
I have employment! Whee. Well, almost whee. I passed the drug test (no suprise there), but I am waiting for them to finish the rest of their HR stuff. I did accept the offer. Tentative start date = July 10. I have until then to finish my thesis, and to enjoy myself sleeping in, doing nothing, etc. For after that date I'll be doing the 5 day work week with the rest of the 'real world'.
I also have to consolodate my loans today, and work on said thesis, and go over to the lab and pick up my equipment that I had stored there, etc.
Oh, and I have softball tonight. Hopefully the rain refrains from falling until at least 9pm.
I have employment! Whee. Well, almost whee. I passed the drug test (no suprise there), but I am waiting for them to finish the rest of their HR stuff. I did accept the offer. Tentative start date = July 10. I have until then to finish my thesis, and to enjoy myself sleeping in, doing nothing, etc. For after that date I'll be doing the 5 day work week with the rest of the 'real world'.
I also have to consolodate my loans today, and work on said thesis, and go over to the lab and pick up my equipment that I had stored there, etc.
Oh, and I have softball tonight. Hopefully the rain refrains from falling until at least 9pm.
Thursday, June 15, 2006
Sitting on Houses
From today through next Wed. I'll be house/puppy sitting again. Oh and plant sitting since I have to water the garden and eat the radishes. This is a good thing. Their house has an A/C and it's supposed to be very warm here in the next week. I'm not minding this at all. Still, when I'm there for a week instead of the weekend I actually have to pack things to bring...so I'd better get on that. Reach me by cell phone rather than email should you want me.
From today through next Wed. I'll be house/puppy sitting again. Oh and plant sitting since I have to water the garden and eat the radishes. This is a good thing. Their house has an A/C and it's supposed to be very warm here in the next week. I'm not minding this at all. Still, when I'm there for a week instead of the weekend I actually have to pack things to bring...so I'd better get on that. Reach me by cell phone rather than email should you want me.
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
Because I felt like it:
Which of Henry VIII's wives are you?
this quiz was made by Lori Fury
Anna of Cleves got the royal shaft. She came all the way to England to become the fourth wife of Henry VIII. Once married to Anna, he refused to consummate the marriage, and called her the "Flanders Mare". Talk about a burn, considering that by this time, Henry was the fattest man in England and had a rotting syphilis sore on his leg.
Anna was miffed, but she was too sensible to let it ruin her fun. She was given an annulment and a fat yearly allowance, and she threw extravagant parties and dined on delicacies for the rest of her life.
Which of Henry VIII's wives are you?
this quiz was made by Lori Fury
Stuff to do, and stuff done.
The job offer is a go, but I don't have it in the mail yet. I'm waiting for their HR people to finish up. Monday ended up taking my car in to get new brakes, a new muffler clip (so that it's not just banging around under the car threatening to fall off), and an oil change/tire rotation. Uber dinero spent, but now car is set to make it through the winter. I'd love to buy a new one this summer when all the end of model year sales happen, but what's the point? I have no garage - why put a new car out in the elements? My car works just fine, I just want a new one. The garage problem also limits me in terms of buying my motorcycle. I can't just store it in the grass here...I'll have to get serious about house hunting I guess. Something with a nice big garage.
In other news I have to consolidate my school loans. Anyone know anything about that? I have a few pamplets and a few places that have sent me offers...but, bleh. I know nothing of it. I should look into that today.
I should also finish cleaning today, and perhaps eat lunch. Not sure I feel like it though. It's hot and I'm still vaguely tired. Don't know what the tiredness is all about though. I think I've been getting enough sleep and I have not the stress level I used to. Hm, maybe I need stress? Nah. I think I'm just used to it.
The job offer is a go, but I don't have it in the mail yet. I'm waiting for their HR people to finish up. Monday ended up taking my car in to get new brakes, a new muffler clip (so that it's not just banging around under the car threatening to fall off), and an oil change/tire rotation. Uber dinero spent, but now car is set to make it through the winter. I'd love to buy a new one this summer when all the end of model year sales happen, but what's the point? I have no garage - why put a new car out in the elements? My car works just fine, I just want a new one. The garage problem also limits me in terms of buying my motorcycle. I can't just store it in the grass here...I'll have to get serious about house hunting I guess. Something with a nice big garage.
In other news I have to consolidate my school loans. Anyone know anything about that? I have a few pamplets and a few places that have sent me offers...but, bleh. I know nothing of it. I should look into that today.
I should also finish cleaning today, and perhaps eat lunch. Not sure I feel like it though. It's hot and I'm still vaguely tired. Don't know what the tiredness is all about though. I think I've been getting enough sleep and I have not the stress level I used to. Hm, maybe I need stress? Nah. I think I'm just used to it.
