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...
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.
Monday, June 12, 2006
Job
I probably have a job. I'm waiting on offers in the mail/fed ex/ups/etc. Crossing fingers and toes.
I'm also really tired. I think a nap may be in order, and I only woke up 45 minutes ago. Or rather, got ready for the day 45 minutes ago. Going for a walk and eating count as daily activities. So does taking the recycling out.
Then I'll get ready for my day, and go to Target and Cub and the Library and all those other errand places.
Naps are going to be few and far between once I start...working.
I probably have a job. I'm waiting on offers in the mail/fed ex/ups/etc. Crossing fingers and toes.
I'm also really tired. I think a nap may be in order, and I only woke up 45 minutes ago. Or rather, got ready for the day 45 minutes ago. Going for a walk and eating count as daily activities. So does taking the recycling out.
Then I'll get ready for my day, and go to Target and Cub and the Library and all those other errand places.
Naps are going to be few and far between once I start...working.
Sunday, June 04, 2006
Vampiric movie reactions
I am silly. I am also the color of a slightly cooked lobster. This is my own fault. I know better than to go outside in really strong sun for many hours without screen of sun. Still, I don't usually burn. I didn't think I did today either. I got home tan. I ate supper tan. I watched a movie and somewhere during the movie I burned. It is the movie's fault. I shouldn't watch movies about vampires in the daylight after spending hours in the sun. Sympathy burn.
I also itch. Has nothing to do with my much blushier hue. Has all to do with allergies. Itching an area of slightly tender skin is a bad idea. Note to self. I'm going to take some benadryl for the itchies, but not until RIGHT before bed as it's better than any sleeping pill known to me.
Also I'm hot. Could have something to do with the more colorful me. More likely it is a direct result of it being 80 in my room right now. I am thirsty. This is one condition I can solve quickly with a large glass of water or juice. I think I'll work on that now, and describe the remainder of my week/end later.
I am silly. I am also the color of a slightly cooked lobster. This is my own fault. I know better than to go outside in really strong sun for many hours without screen of sun. Still, I don't usually burn. I didn't think I did today either. I got home tan. I ate supper tan. I watched a movie and somewhere during the movie I burned. It is the movie's fault. I shouldn't watch movies about vampires in the daylight after spending hours in the sun. Sympathy burn.
I also itch. Has nothing to do with my much blushier hue. Has all to do with allergies. Itching an area of slightly tender skin is a bad idea. Note to self. I'm going to take some benadryl for the itchies, but not until RIGHT before bed as it's better than any sleeping pill known to me.
Also I'm hot. Could have something to do with the more colorful me. More likely it is a direct result of it being 80 in my room right now. I am thirsty. This is one condition I can solve quickly with a large glass of water or juice. I think I'll work on that now, and describe the remainder of my week/end later.
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
Back
I am back from GB. I didn't get as much done there as I'd wanted. I had wanted to work on my thesis and have it in finished form when I returned. Not so much. I ended up only looking at it briefly. My papa had surgery, it went well, but I was acting nurse so I didn't have time to work on it....or the time I had was distracted. I did manage to clean out the stuff in my closet in my old room. I also managed to go have fun. I went to X3 with Jenni and Chad and to coldstone after. I went out by Shona and her horses two days. One day to just feed and pet and see the new setup (new place she's boarding), and the second day to work one, ride one, and give baths to two. (there are three that she owns, and a fourth she works) I had a great ride though I'm excessively sore today (second day after). I rode her 26 year old mare who still has the energy of a 5 yr old, but has the 'old nag' gaits. She really tries, and if you get her to collect she's still pretty smooth...but her pace feels...old. I don't know how else to describe it. She used to be smooth as water and she isn't anymore. Horseriders will know what I mean.
I also went and earned my motorcycle temps. Thus is born Team Fall Down Motorcycle Club. Myself and Karin as founding members and presidents for life. We have one honorary member other than us. I have to sign up to take the course tomorrow, and go shopping for a spiff helmet, jacket, and chaps (yes chaps...I want some). Then I went riding with Joe and my cousin Mark on seperate days. I think I like being the driver better than the rider, but riding is a good way to watch hawks.
Hm, other things happened too, but I want to drink my mohito (drink roommate made) and watch Buffy. ta.
I am back from GB. I didn't get as much done there as I'd wanted. I had wanted to work on my thesis and have it in finished form when I returned. Not so much. I ended up only looking at it briefly. My papa had surgery, it went well, but I was acting nurse so I didn't have time to work on it....or the time I had was distracted. I did manage to clean out the stuff in my closet in my old room. I also managed to go have fun. I went to X3 with Jenni and Chad and to coldstone after. I went out by Shona and her horses two days. One day to just feed and pet and see the new setup (new place she's boarding), and the second day to work one, ride one, and give baths to two. (there are three that she owns, and a fourth she works) I had a great ride though I'm excessively sore today (second day after). I rode her 26 year old mare who still has the energy of a 5 yr old, but has the 'old nag' gaits. She really tries, and if you get her to collect she's still pretty smooth...but her pace feels...old. I don't know how else to describe it. She used to be smooth as water and she isn't anymore. Horseriders will know what I mean.
I also went and earned my motorcycle temps. Thus is born Team Fall Down Motorcycle Club. Myself and Karin as founding members and presidents for life. We have one honorary member other than us. I have to sign up to take the course tomorrow, and go shopping for a spiff helmet, jacket, and chaps (yes chaps...I want some). Then I went riding with Joe and my cousin Mark on seperate days. I think I like being the driver better than the rider, but riding is a good way to watch hawks.
Hm, other things happened too, but I want to drink my mohito (drink roommate made) and watch Buffy. ta.
Monday, May 22, 2006
Gone
I'm heading to GB now for a week. I've accomplished two job interviews, packing, etc today, so I'll be wiped when I get there. I'll be in uncertain contact during the week, best way to reach me is my phone, if you have the number. You could also try email. I'll be checking it every few days at the least.
Wish me luck with finishing my draft of my thesis. I'm going to need it. Talk to people more after Memorial Day weekend.
I'm heading to GB now for a week. I've accomplished two job interviews, packing, etc today, so I'll be wiped when I get there. I'll be in uncertain contact during the week, best way to reach me is my phone, if you have the number. You could also try email. I'll be checking it every few days at the least.
Wish me luck with finishing my draft of my thesis. I'm going to need it. Talk to people more after Memorial Day weekend.
Sunday, May 21, 2006
Where am I going?
I'm heading to my parent's place for a week or so. I'll leave tomorrow after my interviews (I have two, wish me luck.) and return after Memorial Day unless something crazy happens (like another interview).
I'm suddenly depressed. I can think of many root causes, and I'll not extrapolate here, but it's depressing. I dislike being depressed. I was great earlier today too. I woke up, watched Buffy and ate chocolate for breakfast, then turned on the loud music and began cleaning my room. Suddenly I started the downwards. It may have begun when I checked my grades. I got an A- in one of my classes, thus ruining my GPA of a 4.0. The LAST bloody class I had to make it through too. I've emailed the prof. to find out just how close I was to an A...but I don't expect him to change it. I know I was borderline. Also, my downstairs neighbor is either smoking in the house again, or is smoking in a place directly below my window. I can smell it, taste it, and it's interfering with my breathing. That just happened though, it's helping to turn the depression into anger as I type this. I'm not sure anger is better than depressed...but as I hate being in a funk - especially when I can't figure out the root cause and fix it, I'll take the anger.
Maybe I need a medicinal shower. Or more chocolate. Right now all I feel like is a nap with Eeyore to cuddle with. I can close my eyes and pretend he's hugging me back. As I slept until 11 today, I think a nap is unadvisable. I have too much to do, and want some time w/ the girls before I go away for the week. I'll have plenty of 'alone' me time when I'm in GB. I think I'm going to go take the test for my Motorcycle temps when I'm home. That will cheer me up. Not that I own a motorcycle...but one thing at a time.
Shower now, maybe a run first. I'll see.
I'm heading to my parent's place for a week or so. I'll leave tomorrow after my interviews (I have two, wish me luck.) and return after Memorial Day unless something crazy happens (like another interview).
I'm suddenly depressed. I can think of many root causes, and I'll not extrapolate here, but it's depressing. I dislike being depressed. I was great earlier today too. I woke up, watched Buffy and ate chocolate for breakfast, then turned on the loud music and began cleaning my room. Suddenly I started the downwards. It may have begun when I checked my grades. I got an A- in one of my classes, thus ruining my GPA of a 4.0. The LAST bloody class I had to make it through too. I've emailed the prof. to find out just how close I was to an A...but I don't expect him to change it. I know I was borderline. Also, my downstairs neighbor is either smoking in the house again, or is smoking in a place directly below my window. I can smell it, taste it, and it's interfering with my breathing. That just happened though, it's helping to turn the depression into anger as I type this. I'm not sure anger is better than depressed...but as I hate being in a funk - especially when I can't figure out the root cause and fix it, I'll take the anger.
Maybe I need a medicinal shower. Or more chocolate. Right now all I feel like is a nap with Eeyore to cuddle with. I can close my eyes and pretend he's hugging me back. As I slept until 11 today, I think a nap is unadvisable. I have too much to do, and want some time w/ the girls before I go away for the week. I'll have plenty of 'alone' me time when I'm in GB. I think I'm going to go take the test for my Motorcycle temps when I'm home. That will cheer me up. Not that I own a motorcycle...but one thing at a time.
Shower now, maybe a run first. I'll see.
Saturday, May 20, 2006
Where'd I go?
I've been to Chicago for a conference. I presented the poster-of-many-a-bitching-blog. It went well. I met fun people, learned a bunch, and gave blood. You may wonder why this rates so high on the list of things I did.
Until just Wednesday, when said blood was donated, I did not know if I could. Every time, in the past, that I tried I would pass out. I decided after giving it a go three times, that my body only makes enough blood for itself and had not learned to share. Now, a few years later, my body has learned that age-old kindergarden lesson, and I gave a pint of the ole b-positive to the Red Cross.
After which I decided that I'd earned a pint...or 5. (oops...I believe the nice Red Cross volunteers gave me a sheet in which I was supposed to avoid alcohol and drink water for a while after. I think I ignored it. Really I think it was the nice people buying me alcohol in the first place that ignored it. I just played along. Yup.)
But anyway, back to the conference. The poster went over well, and I have many people interested in my poster and potential manuscript. I have to email them tomorrow. I went to some entertaining and informative sessions, and ignored the ones I felt wouldn't be. Actually, I didn't get to go to all the ones I wanted, but I tried. I missed a good portion of a committee meeting because I had a dinner meeting, but caught the end of it, and then went out after (said 5 pints, mentioned above) with the people from the meeting.
Thursday I relaxed, went to the Art Institute of Chicago to see the impressionist paintings, and did some shopping. Chocolate and smelly body stuff, very girly I know. Then I flew back to the TCs. Now I'm in the process of cleaning my room and deciding what clothes to put on to go dancing. I should really go dry my hairs before they end up in the 'poof' style.
I've been to Chicago for a conference. I presented the poster-of-many-a-bitching-blog. It went well. I met fun people, learned a bunch, and gave blood. You may wonder why this rates so high on the list of things I did.
Until just Wednesday, when said blood was donated, I did not know if I could. Every time, in the past, that I tried I would pass out. I decided after giving it a go three times, that my body only makes enough blood for itself and had not learned to share. Now, a few years later, my body has learned that age-old kindergarden lesson, and I gave a pint of the ole b-positive to the Red Cross.
After which I decided that I'd earned a pint...or 5. (oops...I believe the nice Red Cross volunteers gave me a sheet in which I was supposed to avoid alcohol and drink water for a while after. I think I ignored it. Really I think it was the nice people buying me alcohol in the first place that ignored it. I just played along. Yup.)
But anyway, back to the conference. The poster went over well, and I have many people interested in my poster and potential manuscript. I have to email them tomorrow. I went to some entertaining and informative sessions, and ignored the ones I felt wouldn't be. Actually, I didn't get to go to all the ones I wanted, but I tried. I missed a good portion of a committee meeting because I had a dinner meeting, but caught the end of it, and then went out after (said 5 pints, mentioned above) with the people from the meeting.
Thursday I relaxed, went to the Art Institute of Chicago to see the impressionist paintings, and did some shopping. Chocolate and smelly body stuff, very girly I know. Then I flew back to the TCs. Now I'm in the process of cleaning my room and deciding what clothes to put on to go dancing. I should really go dry my hairs before they end up in the 'poof' style.
Friday, May 12, 2006
Festivites?
Last week was the Festival of Nations. I ate great food from all over the world (too much of it), watched great dancing from all over the world, went shopping all over the world, and learned about world bazaars. Then we discovered the cutouts, you know, the boards where you stick your head in and become someone else. We had the damnedest time taking the picture below. Mary and I had NO idea what face the other one was making...honest. Barbara was laughing so hard at us, that we couldn't hold the faces we were making, so this picture took a while to take. We'd step out, giggle, pinch ourselves, get ourselves back into 'photo mode' and pose again. Barbara would get the camera lined up, and start giggling again. If she could have held it, we could have... Finally, on take about...15, (ok, it was probably 5, but it felt like forever), she got the picture in just before the giggling began again. Mary and I calmed down, went to look at it, and all three of us cracked up again. It was a great time. There are other pictures. Perhaps I'll post them later.
Last week was the Festival of Nations. I ate great food from all over the world (too much of it), watched great dancing from all over the world, went shopping all over the world, and learned about world bazaars. Then we discovered the cutouts, you know, the boards where you stick your head in and become someone else. We had the damnedest time taking the picture below. Mary and I had NO idea what face the other one was making...honest. Barbara was laughing so hard at us, that we couldn't hold the faces we were making, so this picture took a while to take. We'd step out, giggle, pinch ourselves, get ourselves back into 'photo mode' and pose again. Barbara would get the camera lined up, and start giggling again. If she could have held it, we could have... Finally, on take about...15, (ok, it was probably 5, but it felt like forever), she got the picture in just before the giggling began again. Mary and I calmed down, went to look at it, and all three of us cracked up again. It was a great time. There are other pictures. Perhaps I'll post them later.
Wednesday, May 10, 2006
Lilacs
I woke up today when I was supposed to, but I had left the window open to the breeze last night and a lovely cool breeze scented with lilacs was floating into my room. I thought to myself, I'll just relax a bit longer, and I floated away into lilac scented dreams. This morning I could have related them to you, but now they are just a distant memory.
I went to MDH to get my equipment to do some field work tomorrow, and then came back home. As I stepped out of my car to go back into my home, I again scented lilacs. I wanted to cut some and bring them into the house to fill the inside with the wonderful smell of spring. Lilacs are my favorite flower, but they last so very short a time once cut from the bush. They are all in perfect bloom here, we're almost done with the season, but back home I bet it's just beginning. So at least when I go to GB for a week I'll get to smell the lilacs again. I wonder if there is a lilac-type bush out there that blooms longer, or multiple times? I'd buy it. When I own my own house, I'm going to create a property line of lilac bushes (and keep them trimmed so I can always reach the flowers to smell them).
Right now, my house smells like lunch, and looking around it I can smell the hint of cleaning fluids. Not that I've used them yet, but I have to. I think my senses are reminding me of the work I really should be getting done. First the lunch, then the work. At least I'll get to play outside this afternoon!
I woke up today when I was supposed to, but I had left the window open to the breeze last night and a lovely cool breeze scented with lilacs was floating into my room. I thought to myself, I'll just relax a bit longer, and I floated away into lilac scented dreams. This morning I could have related them to you, but now they are just a distant memory.
I went to MDH to get my equipment to do some field work tomorrow, and then came back home. As I stepped out of my car to go back into my home, I again scented lilacs. I wanted to cut some and bring them into the house to fill the inside with the wonderful smell of spring. Lilacs are my favorite flower, but they last so very short a time once cut from the bush. They are all in perfect bloom here, we're almost done with the season, but back home I bet it's just beginning. So at least when I go to GB for a week I'll get to smell the lilacs again. I wonder if there is a lilac-type bush out there that blooms longer, or multiple times? I'd buy it. When I own my own house, I'm going to create a property line of lilac bushes (and keep them trimmed so I can always reach the flowers to smell them).
Right now, my house smells like lunch, and looking around it I can smell the hint of cleaning fluids. Not that I've used them yet, but I have to. I think my senses are reminding me of the work I really should be getting done. First the lunch, then the work. At least I'll get to play outside this afternoon!
Tuesday, May 09, 2006
Finally, Finally!
Finally! Did I say that enough? I don't know. Maybe. Ok, one more time - FINALLY!
I finished my poster, sent it off to the printer, and he's made some tweaks. I'm waiting for his file to OK and then it will be done, printed, poof!
I took care of a whole bunch of other misc. graduation stuff today too. I now have a bit of free time (should be cleaning but don't wanna) until my supper is cooked (red potatoes w/ red peppers, onions, and green peppers - yum) and then it's off to my softball game. I may have to pitch tonight, but hopefully not...I've only thrown the ball a few times this year! And hitting, bah. I have no idea how that will go :P Still, if they need me to pitch, I will. It's like riding a bike, right? Once you learn you don't have to relearn? (Shhh, I know I have to practice, I am just pretending I won't suck so much.)
Wish us luck!
Finally! Did I say that enough? I don't know. Maybe. Ok, one more time - FINALLY!
I finished my poster, sent it off to the printer, and he's made some tweaks. I'm waiting for his file to OK and then it will be done, printed, poof!
I took care of a whole bunch of other misc. graduation stuff today too. I now have a bit of free time (should be cleaning but don't wanna) until my supper is cooked (red potatoes w/ red peppers, onions, and green peppers - yum) and then it's off to my softball game. I may have to pitch tonight, but hopefully not...I've only thrown the ball a few times this year! And hitting, bah. I have no idea how that will go :P Still, if they need me to pitch, I will. It's like riding a bike, right? Once you learn you don't have to relearn? (Shhh, I know I have to practice, I am just pretending I won't suck so much.)
Wish us luck!
