Meh...
What can I say that won't sound whiny and...well, whiny? Things here are fine--just the usual, every day stuff that we do but I'm not feeling all happy and stress-free (psst. I really want to feel happy and stress-free) and, well, it's getting me down. But then the economy is in the toilet, lots of people are unemployed or soon-to-be-unemployed or under-employed (my mom, for one) and lots of things are sucky for so many people. And here I am about to quit my job and take on some more student loan debt so that when I finish nursing school in a year I might not find a good job any time soon. Or a job that doesn't involve some hellish commute. Blarg, blarg, blarg.
So, enough bitching about that. There's nothing terribly wrong but nothing feels right. The holidays were weird this year since it's the first time in 6 years that I didn't go back to Lancaster for Thanksgiving. The weather is warm here (60's or so) so it doesn't feel holiday-ish. And I miss my friends. Living here on the west coast takes some getting used to and it's nice here but we're still adjusting. And I wish it were closer to the east coast but that can't be helped. One of the good things about living here is that the produce at the farmer's markets continues to be absolutely fantastic. I can still get strawberries. In December. And they're good. Not as good as in the summer but pretty darned tasty. And now grapes are in season and they taste so, so good. Better than any grapes I've ever eaten. There are pomegranates, oranges, apples and apple cider, autumnal veg and interesting things like persimmons which I can't seem to develop a taste for. And I'm only just now wearing a pseudo-winter coat.
All I can say is that I'm really looking forward to the trip to Lanky-town this weekend! This truly will be my last trip until 2011. That sounds weird to say. 2011. Anyway, there you have it. Guess I better stock up on hugs, apple butter from Market and wehani rice from Weaver's, a sandwich from I's and leisurely morning coffee on the back porch at my dad's.
11.14.2008
Harder than it looks...
These are the red wigglers we bought for vermicomposting from the "Worm Dude."
(not an advert for USPS)
worms? veg scraps?
These are the worms now...
Yeah, those are shriveled up dead little worms all over our back porch. About 2/3 of them committed mass suicide about 2 weeks ago and the remaining 1/3 offed themselves earlier this week. Both times this happened it was after a day's rain. We were feeding them all kinds of yummy veggie scraps and egg shells but then we'd come outside to discover they crawled out of their worm bin and died. What the hell? Vermicomposting is supposed to be super easy and a no-brainer and yet we killed our worms. Boo. But check out this new piece of awesomeness that now graces our backyard:
you know you want one
These are the red wigglers we bought for vermicomposting from the "Worm Dude."
(not an advert for USPS)
here they come!
worms? veg scraps?
Yeah, those are shriveled up dead little worms all over our back porch. About 2/3 of them committed mass suicide about 2 weeks ago and the remaining 1/3 offed themselves earlier this week. Both times this happened it was after a day's rain. We were feeding them all kinds of yummy veggie scraps and egg shells but then we'd come outside to discover they crawled out of their worm bin and died. What the hell? Vermicomposting is supposed to be super easy and a no-brainer and yet we killed our worms. Boo. But check out this new piece of awesomeness that now graces our backyard:
you know you want one11.04.2008
THE BEST WEDDING ANNIVERSARY PRESENT EVER!!!!!!!!!!!
WWWWOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO, OBAMA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! MUST USE ALL CAPS!!!!!! WOOOOOO!!!
Seriously, this is the BEST anniversary ever. EVER. What could top this? Now, every year we will share our anniversary with the day that the American public pulled its collective heads out of its collective asses and voted for Obama. Life is good.
WWWWOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO, OBAMA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! MUST USE ALL CAPS!!!!!! WOOOOOO!!!
Seriously, this is the BEST anniversary ever. EVER. What could top this? Now, every year we will share our anniversary with the day that the American public pulled its collective heads out of its collective asses and voted for Obama. Life is good.
11.03.2008
On edge....
I've been anxiously checking the internets for campaign news for weeks and now we're down to the final 24 hours of this presidential election. I'm hoping the American people do the right thing and vote for Barack Obama. In the meantime I'm anxious, my eye is twitching and I'm supposed to be studying for my final exam of the semester. But I can't concentrate because I'm too busy compulsively checking CNN and Salon.
I've been anxiously checking the internets for campaign news for weeks and now we're down to the final 24 hours of this presidential election. I'm hoping the American people do the right thing and vote for Barack Obama. In the meantime I'm anxious, my eye is twitching and I'm supposed to be studying for my final exam of the semester. But I can't concentrate because I'm too busy compulsively checking CNN and Salon.
10.24.2008
3 songs...
One day last week I drove to work instead of taking the train and on the way home I was listening to my favorite station: NPR (psst! Have you made a pledge to your local station yet?). The 'California Report" was on and while I don't remember the name of the guy whose story I was listening to, his story goes something like this: because he works for iTunes, he was put in charge of putting together a CD of songs to be played at his aunt's funeral. He talked about what to choose and why and the clash of religious beliefs between family members and what the deceased would have wanted. And then he mentioned the 3 songs he knew he wanted played at his funeral and listeners were invited to submit their 3 songs.
I've been thinking about this for a week now and it's been hard to decide which 3 songs but today's list is as follows: Elton John's "Your Song," Elvis's "Blue Christmas" and Louis Armstrong's "La Vie en Rose." I'm sure tomorrow's list would look different, as would one from next week, next, year, etc. But today, here's my list. What's yours?
One day last week I drove to work instead of taking the train and on the way home I was listening to my favorite station: NPR (psst! Have you made a pledge to your local station yet?). The 'California Report" was on and while I don't remember the name of the guy whose story I was listening to, his story goes something like this: because he works for iTunes, he was put in charge of putting together a CD of songs to be played at his aunt's funeral. He talked about what to choose and why and the clash of religious beliefs between family members and what the deceased would have wanted. And then he mentioned the 3 songs he knew he wanted played at his funeral and listeners were invited to submit their 3 songs.
I've been thinking about this for a week now and it's been hard to decide which 3 songs but today's list is as follows: Elton John's "Your Song," Elvis's "Blue Christmas" and Louis Armstrong's "La Vie en Rose." I'm sure tomorrow's list would look different, as would one from next week, next, year, etc. But today, here's my list. What's yours?
10.18.2008
Wait-Listed...
I got my letter this week (finally) and found out that I've been wait-listed. I suppose I should be pleased to be wait-listed (I'm 5th out of 10) when 22 people didn't get that option at all. There were 80 applicants for 48 slots for the January cohort and while I'm disappointed that I didn't get in I'm hoping that I'll get accepted for the June cohort. In the meantime, I'll be waiting to hear back from admissions re: whether I should retake the NET (god, I hope not) and resubmit everything or what. It's not like I can make my grades any higher and I know my letters of rec were solid. What's left? Those stupid essays they make you write? Maybe that's why I didn't get in...
Anyway, life goes on and I'll just do what I can do to get in for the June cohort. If I still don't get in then I'll need to consider something else. Blarg. I've been thinking about this since I was a senior in college and felt like I was so close this time. Oh well, it gives me time to paint my living room and dining room and take more tennis lessons and do more cooking. And do more fun stuff with Michael and Esme...maybe a trip to Tahoe? Or Yosemite? And another trip to Sonoma? How about all 3? Lots of fun stuff to do and no homework to hold me back.
I got my letter this week (finally) and found out that I've been wait-listed. I suppose I should be pleased to be wait-listed (I'm 5th out of 10) when 22 people didn't get that option at all. There were 80 applicants for 48 slots for the January cohort and while I'm disappointed that I didn't get in I'm hoping that I'll get accepted for the June cohort. In the meantime, I'll be waiting to hear back from admissions re: whether I should retake the NET (god, I hope not) and resubmit everything or what. It's not like I can make my grades any higher and I know my letters of rec were solid. What's left? Those stupid essays they make you write? Maybe that's why I didn't get in...
Anyway, life goes on and I'll just do what I can do to get in for the June cohort. If I still don't get in then I'll need to consider something else. Blarg. I've been thinking about this since I was a senior in college and felt like I was so close this time. Oh well, it gives me time to paint my living room and dining room and take more tennis lessons and do more cooking. And do more fun stuff with Michael and Esme...maybe a trip to Tahoe? Or Yosemite? And another trip to Sonoma? How about all 3? Lots of fun stuff to do and no homework to hold me back.
10.14.2008
What they don't tell you about taking public transportation...
Is that sometimes people purposely or accidentally jump or walk in front of said transportation and get themselves killed. I'm not trying to make light of this because it's a horrible thing. And while it is frustrating to be waiting for the train and wondering why it's late, mostly I'm just thinking about those poor people being killed by an oncoming train. Yesterday's accident was the 2nd one in the past 30 days and the 10th for the year.
I'm sure that most of these deaths are intentional but surely some are accidents...but then I wonder how that is even possible. If you're deaf, you can certainly see the trains and feel the vibration and if you're blind you can hear them and feel the vibration but...I don't know. Are these people zoned out and don't realize what they're doing? I just can't wrap my mind around this. According to C@ltrain spokespeople, at least 5 this year were suicides, 1 was an accident and 2 unknown. No word on the last 2 fatalities.
I realize that things like this happen everywhere but it makes me sad. Sad for those who are killed, sad for their families, sad for the train engineer and conductors and sad for the commuters who try to stop people from going out on the tracks. It's a sad day indeed here in sunny California...
Is that sometimes people purposely or accidentally jump or walk in front of said transportation and get themselves killed. I'm not trying to make light of this because it's a horrible thing. And while it is frustrating to be waiting for the train and wondering why it's late, mostly I'm just thinking about those poor people being killed by an oncoming train. Yesterday's accident was the 2nd one in the past 30 days and the 10th for the year.
I'm sure that most of these deaths are intentional but surely some are accidents...but then I wonder how that is even possible. If you're deaf, you can certainly see the trains and feel the vibration and if you're blind you can hear them and feel the vibration but...I don't know. Are these people zoned out and don't realize what they're doing? I just can't wrap my mind around this. According to C@ltrain spokespeople, at least 5 this year were suicides, 1 was an accident and 2 unknown. No word on the last 2 fatalities.
I realize that things like this happen everywhere but it makes me sad. Sad for those who are killed, sad for their families, sad for the train engineer and conductors and sad for the commuters who try to stop people from going out on the tracks. It's a sad day indeed here in sunny California...
10.02.2008
When the only thing that makes you feel better is a bag of Doritos...
That's where I am right now. School has taken over almost every waking moment of my life that is not spent at work, commuting to and from work, bathing, walking the dog and cooking/eating. And still I struggle. Online classes seemed so ideal in some ways and now...not so much. It's the method of testing. In one class, we're told to read 36 chapters and then take a 25-question MC exam in 50 minutes. 36 chapters. Seriously? Now, to be fair, they're not all really long chapters but you can't even ask one question per chapter.
In the other class, we take weekly 10-question MC quizzes and those are better. We don't cover as much material but the questions are still hard. If you're taking an open-book and open-note test then the questions get much trickier. Not fun. It's doable, of course, but I'm not a good test taker within this format so it makes it worse. But now I'm down to the last 3 and 4 weeks of classes. I know I'm looking forward to a little time off between the end of October and the holidays. Then I'll have time for leisurely reading and baking and painting. Did I just say that? Painting? Am I crazy?
That's where I am right now. School has taken over almost every waking moment of my life that is not spent at work, commuting to and from work, bathing, walking the dog and cooking/eating. And still I struggle. Online classes seemed so ideal in some ways and now...not so much. It's the method of testing. In one class, we're told to read 36 chapters and then take a 25-question MC exam in 50 minutes. 36 chapters. Seriously? Now, to be fair, they're not all really long chapters but you can't even ask one question per chapter.
In the other class, we take weekly 10-question MC quizzes and those are better. We don't cover as much material but the questions are still hard. If you're taking an open-book and open-note test then the questions get much trickier. Not fun. It's doable, of course, but I'm not a good test taker within this format so it makes it worse. But now I'm down to the last 3 and 4 weeks of classes. I know I'm looking forward to a little time off between the end of October and the holidays. Then I'll have time for leisurely reading and baking and painting. Did I just say that? Painting? Am I crazy?
9.16.2008
Just call me...
Taupe Armageddon. Bwahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha! And Michael shall now be known as Axe Diesel.
Go find out what your name would be if the Mooseburger had been your mom.
Taupe Armageddon. Bwahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha! And Michael shall now be known as Axe Diesel.
Go find out what your name would be if the Mooseburger had been your mom.
9.15.2008
Feeling sick to my stomach...
All I think about is this damned presidential election. I am most of the way through a brand new bottle of Pepto (seriously? Buy some of their stock b/c we have a long way yet to go) and have been hitting the Tums pretty hard, too. I want to write about the more interesting stuff going on around here, not that there's much of it, but still. I can't. All I can think about is McSame and the Mooseburger. God. Just seeing their faces in the paper or on the internet makes me want to throw up. Forget seeing them on tv--our gov't voucher for the HDTV adapter box thing-y still hasn't arrived and maybe that's not a bad thing. Except that the season premiere of House is Tuesday and I'm dying to see it. I love me some Hugh Laurie...
Anyway, I leave you with a picture of a warthog statue that we encountered during our visit to Sonoma in August.
No, I did not hump it. Don't even ask. There were like, a hundred people there and I was not about to subject myself to public humiliation for your viewing pleasure. You know who you are.
All I think about is this damned presidential election. I am most of the way through a brand new bottle of Pepto (seriously? Buy some of their stock b/c we have a long way yet to go) and have been hitting the Tums pretty hard, too. I want to write about the more interesting stuff going on around here, not that there's much of it, but still. I can't. All I can think about is McSame and the Mooseburger. God. Just seeing their faces in the paper or on the internet makes me want to throw up. Forget seeing them on tv--our gov't voucher for the HDTV adapter box thing-y still hasn't arrived and maybe that's not a bad thing. Except that the season premiere of House is Tuesday and I'm dying to see it. I love me some Hugh Laurie...
Anyway, I leave you with a picture of a warthog statue that we encountered during our visit to Sonoma in August.
No, I did not hump it. Don't even ask. There were like, a hundred people there and I was not about to subject myself to public humiliation for your viewing pleasure. You know who you are.
9.05.2008
The little red cart makes its debut...
We recently took the little red cart and Esme to the local farmer's market. We have since decided that Esme only gets to go every other week while the little red cart gets to go as often as it wishes.
In other news, things around here are just plain busy. I'm finishing up my second week as a receptionist working for 3 chiropractors (free treatment for me!) and they like me so much they want me to stay thru the end of December. It turns out that finding a PT temp job was a lot harder than I would have thought. Companies either want someone temporarily FT or permanently PT. Anyway, everyone is very nice and it's only 12 mi. from home and it's really close to a Caltrain station. I will start taking the train to work on Monday. The work pays well but it's 30 hrs/week plus transportation time. It's not bad, but more than I wanted to do in combination with school. So far I seem to be making it work.
I'm finishing up the 3rd week of my online classes and they seem to be going pretty well so far but it's definitely different from sitting in the classroom and going to lab. I'm amazed, tho, by how many people seem to squander their opportunity to do well in these classes. Quizzes in one class are open book and open note. They consist of 15 questions and you have 25 min. to answer them. You are told to keep time b/c the computer doesn't do it automatically and either the other students are losing points for going over 25 min or they aren't getting the right answers or a little of both. It's true that these quizzes are a little tricky but if you read the material and took good notes to supplement the powerpoints, you should still do reasonably well. And yet...many of them don't. The thing I don't get is that this particular class is taught by the director of the ABSN program that we've all applied to...not setting a good example, now are we?
But I digress. School is okay but there is a lot of material to cover, mandatory group work (thankfully I have a good group who submits things early so we're always on time) and you don't have the opportunity to sit in a classroom and get a lecture on things like, oh, acid-base balance. Which I struggled with last quarter. But you can call the professors and do online chats and things. I can see how this would be a big problem for people who aren't very self-directed. You'll be please to note that while the school application process was part of the early August shitwich eating issue that all of my stuff got mailed and was received by the school (as far as I can tell, anyway) and now I just wait to find out if I'm accepted. 80 applicants were submitted for the campus I applied to and there are 48 slots. Notice will be given sometime in October so keep your fingers crossed for me.
Lastly, we're just about all unpacked. Or as unpacked as we're going to be. We've got plenty of organizing to do and we still need to purchase a shelving unit for the living room but we seem to be making it work so far. I have pics to post from our "Worst. Shakespeare. Play. EVER." trip including many a "Tree?" pose throughout Sonoma. I'll get to that....sometime...maybe...you know, in October after the fall quarter is over...we'll see...
9.01.2008
8.21.2008
It isn't just me...
Hurray for this article in Slate. It's nice to know that I'm not the only one who can't figure out how the hell to do those damn sudoku puzzles and doesn't think crossword puzzles are the bee's knees. Which is probably a good thing or else Michael and I would fight over the puzzle page at the end of the Sunday Times magazine. I'm more than happy to leave crossword puzzling to him and I will carry on with the reading parts. You know, before I fall asleep with my glasses still on and the book splayed open on my chest.
Hurray for this article in Slate. It's nice to know that I'm not the only one who can't figure out how the hell to do those damn sudoku puzzles and doesn't think crossword puzzles are the bee's knees. Which is probably a good thing or else Michael and I would fight over the puzzle page at the end of the Sunday Times magazine. I'm more than happy to leave crossword puzzling to him and I will carry on with the reading parts. You know, before I fall asleep with my glasses still on and the book splayed open on my chest.
8.20.2008
The Neti Pot - Day 1...
Michael and I met our new GP this week at the medical office complex from hell and she was very nice. She recommended we use a neti pot which I already have (thank you, Hefk!) but have not yet used. So, I decided today was the day. Our doctor recommended using it in the shower since it's kind of messy until you get used to it but I didn't want to get in the shower yet (showering before tennis=waste of water) so I followed the directions that came in the box and did it over the sink. And I think I did okay. It didn't really go down the back of my throat which was good but I was not prepared for the resulting drippy nose. I blew my nose a few times after I was done but then it kept dripping. Is it supposed to do that?
In the meantime, I had the fabulous idea to unpack my china (seriously, why the hell did I take this stuff from my mother?) so I could put it in the cabinet (now safely secured with earthquake straps--a topic for another time) and managed to drip all over the glass shelves I was cleaning. Gross, I know. By now, the dripping has stopped but I'm left with a bit of sinus pressure on the left side in both my frontal and nasal sinuses. Is that supposed to happen? How soon does that weird there's-something-liquid-up-my-nose feeling go away?
Michael and I met our new GP this week at the medical office complex from hell and she was very nice. She recommended we use a neti pot which I already have (thank you, Hefk!) but have not yet used. So, I decided today was the day. Our doctor recommended using it in the shower since it's kind of messy until you get used to it but I didn't want to get in the shower yet (showering before tennis=waste of water) so I followed the directions that came in the box and did it over the sink. And I think I did okay. It didn't really go down the back of my throat which was good but I was not prepared for the resulting drippy nose. I blew my nose a few times after I was done but then it kept dripping. Is it supposed to do that?
In the meantime, I had the fabulous idea to unpack my china (seriously, why the hell did I take this stuff from my mother?) so I could put it in the cabinet (now safely secured with earthquake straps--a topic for another time) and managed to drip all over the glass shelves I was cleaning. Gross, I know. By now, the dripping has stopped but I'm left with a bit of sinus pressure on the left side in both my frontal and nasal sinuses. Is that supposed to happen? How soon does that weird there's-something-liquid-up-my-nose feeling go away?
8.18.2008
Great Sexist-pectations...
You know, it's 2008. Not the 1800s, not 1950 but 2008. I know that sexism is alive and well but recently I got smacked upside the head with it. Twice. Not in major, frontline news kinds of ways but the subtle little shitty ways that are so part of everyday life that most people don't even think about them.
The first time was at the bank. Michael and I went in to open new checking and savings accounts and I took the initiative and I told the banker what we wanted. And what did she do? She listed Michael as the primary on our jt checking. Why? Because he's the husband. He's the man and I am the lowly woman who does not get to be listed as the primary on the checking account. And I was so stunned by it that I didn't know what to say. Then she asked me where I worked and when I said I didn't she asked if I was a homemaker. A homemaker? Do people even do that anymore? I am a woman who happens to be a wife who isn't working and that makes me a homemaker? WTF, people?!? Why can't I just be unemployed? Why can't I just be a person who is not currently employed but is looking for a job. Why not ask me if I am a job seeker not a fcking homemaker?
The second time occurs when getting quotes for car and renter's insurance. I called the broker Michael used during grad school and the company with the most competitive quote wants a copy of our marriage certificate because we have different last names and need to prove that we are actually married. Now, this is not the broker's fault. But I did tell her how appallingly sexist this policy is and if the quote weren't so dang competitive, I would have asked for a quote from another company. I wouldn't mind if they applied this policy across to the board. If you insist that all couples provide a copy of their license, then fine. That's fair. But to single out people like us is total crap. And if it weren't for Michael's minor fender bender in the snow last year, I would go somewhere else but we just can't afford it. But, by Ogg, they are going to hear from me.
You know, it's 2008. Not the 1800s, not 1950 but 2008. I know that sexism is alive and well but recently I got smacked upside the head with it. Twice. Not in major, frontline news kinds of ways but the subtle little shitty ways that are so part of everyday life that most people don't even think about them.
The first time was at the bank. Michael and I went in to open new checking and savings accounts and I took the initiative and I told the banker what we wanted. And what did she do? She listed Michael as the primary on our jt checking. Why? Because he's the husband. He's the man and I am the lowly woman who does not get to be listed as the primary on the checking account. And I was so stunned by it that I didn't know what to say. Then she asked me where I worked and when I said I didn't she asked if I was a homemaker. A homemaker? Do people even do that anymore? I am a woman who happens to be a wife who isn't working and that makes me a homemaker? WTF, people?!? Why can't I just be unemployed? Why can't I just be a person who is not currently employed but is looking for a job. Why not ask me if I am a job seeker not a fcking homemaker?
The second time occurs when getting quotes for car and renter's insurance. I called the broker Michael used during grad school and the company with the most competitive quote wants a copy of our marriage certificate because we have different last names and need to prove that we are actually married. Now, this is not the broker's fault. But I did tell her how appallingly sexist this policy is and if the quote weren't so dang competitive, I would have asked for a quote from another company. I wouldn't mind if they applied this policy across to the board. If you insist that all couples provide a copy of their license, then fine. That's fair. But to single out people like us is total crap. And if it weren't for Michael's minor fender bender in the snow last year, I would go somewhere else but we just can't afford it. But, by Ogg, they are going to hear from me.
8.13.2008
No more shitwiches...
At least for the time being. So, I realize that my little bloggy post there was cause for concern for some of you--rest assured, things are returning to normal. Many of you were at the wedding and have already heard my tales of woe. For those of you still in the dark, here is the recap:
At least for the time being. So, I realize that my little bloggy post there was cause for concern for some of you--rest assured, things are returning to normal. Many of you were at the wedding and have already heard my tales of woe. For those of you still in the dark, here is the recap:
- Less than 24 hours before closing on the sale of our house, the stupid buyers start freaking out over the crack in the basement that I disclosed in our first contract and had noted that I was taking bids for repair. I had since brought someone in to repair it and he did a damned fine job. However, I did not think to ask for a receipt esp. since I paid in cash. He's an industrial engineer by trade but is retired from that line of business and rehabs houses in the neighborhood now. Great guy. Anyway, butthole buyers keep acting like we're lying and even tho you can see that the concrete in the SE corner is a different color and texture than the rest of the floor, they claim that it wasn't fixed. So our realtor spends the afternoon trying to call in contractors to no avail. Long story short, Michael sends them an email detailing what we had done and includes a diagram. Thurs. am while I am in transit to the east coast the paperwork is signed and we are no longer the owners of that house. I land at O'Hare around lunchtime and treat myself to a cold beer and a sub-optimal portobella sandwich (hey, at least it wasn't a shitwich).
- At the same time, I am experiencing extreme frustration with the idiots at Sylvan Learning Ctr in Mt. View. I arranged to have their facility privately proctor my stupid NET exam for nursing school and after dealing with the headache of making said arrangements and taking the test, thought everything was a done deal. I could not have been more wrong. Turns out that somehow the testing company neglected to include the Big Brown return envelope or the idiots at SLC misplaced it when they opened the package. So, I took the test the Friday before last. They call me Wed. am when I am trying to tie up loose ends, finish laundry and pack before my early morning flight on Thurs. They never sent my test back to the testing company for scoring. They wanted me to come bring them a shipping label. I'm confused as to why they aren't using the one that should have been included with the test. The girl I'm talking to is confused. I hang up and call the testing company. The customer service rep says it will be faster if I just go buy a Big Brown envelope and drop it off at the test site. I call back. The girl tells me they have the envelope...they were confused about when I wanted them to mail the test back to the testing company...WTF?!?!? I make the girl promise me that she will personally get in her car and drive the test to the nearest Big Brown Flush it Down drop box or business. I hang up and go back to packing and laundry. I get a call a few hours later from the director of the school of incompetence asking me why I haven't dropped off a mailing envelope for them yet. Seriously? My god, what the fck is going on over there?!? Another long story short, she calls the testing company and gets their UPS shipping acct no. and drops off my test. I get some BS excuse about "I'm really busy...blah, blah, blah." Well, I'm busy, too, and I paid you people $55 to hand me my test and then to take it to fcking UPS after I finished with i. Idiots. SLC is run by incompetent boobs so if you or your future kids needs their services I would consider going somewhere else. Idiots.
- So, now the good news. The house sold and after our mortgage, HELOC, realtor and closing fees were paid, the remainder was wired to our checking acct. Woo! Also, I got my test scores Mon. night and they were good enough for the nursing program. I did better on the math section than the reading comp--go figure.
- The just plain old news is that I got an email yesterday from the school saying that they have completed the first portion of application review and apps now go forward to the faculty. They have 80 apps for the San Mateo campus and only 48 spots. Keep your fingers crossed that I'm one of the 48. If I don't get into this program I really don't know what to do with myself. I can't keep treading water until I can get in somewhere...sometimes I wonder if I shouldn't have stayed in OH until I finished my degree. Blarg. Anyway, no sense worrying about it now. I should hear sometime in October.
8.06.2008
My luncheon with the Universe...
Me: What should I order...hmmmm....the portobella mushroom with goat cheese and roasted red peppers looks yummy...
Universe: No, I think you should order the shit sandwich platter.
Me: Shit sandwich platter? That doesn't sound tasty at all.
Universe: Waiter? This lovely lady here would like to order the shit sandwich platter. Chop, chop!
Me: Universe, what have I done to piss you off?
(Waiter brings platter of shit sandwiches, places platter in front of me)
Universe: Here, Kelly, have a shit sandwich. They sure are delicious, aren't they?
Me: Nom...nom...no, this is terrible! I would really rather have the portobella...
Universe: No, no, this is so much tastier. Here, have another...
Me: Nom...nom...this sucks...nom..nom...could I at least have the lemon curd tartlet for dessert?
Universe: No, you may have the shit tartlet. Eat up!
Me: What should I order...hmmmm....the portobella mushroom with goat cheese and roasted red peppers looks yummy...
Universe: No, I think you should order the shit sandwich platter.
Me: Shit sandwich platter? That doesn't sound tasty at all.
Universe: Waiter? This lovely lady here would like to order the shit sandwich platter. Chop, chop!
Me: Universe, what have I done to piss you off?
(Waiter brings platter of shit sandwiches, places platter in front of me)
Universe: Here, Kelly, have a shit sandwich. They sure are delicious, aren't they?
Me: Nom...nom...no, this is terrible! I would really rather have the portobella...
Universe: No, no, this is so much tastier. Here, have another...
Me: Nom...nom...this sucks...nom..nom...could I at least have the lemon curd tartlet for dessert?
Universe: No, you may have the shit tartlet. Eat up!
8.04.2008
I guess the cat's outta the bag...
Well, most of you don't know this but the neighbors do...the sale of our house is pending and we close at the end of the week. We've chosen not to discuss this with anyone other than our parents--mostly for superstitious reasons but also because this is so hard. We love our house (although I had some serious moments of intense dislike while prepping it for sale) and our neighborhood and are so sad that we must turn over the keys to new owners. I hope they love our house as much as we do and hope they don't do anything horrible to it like paint the woodwork.
There was a time when we thought we'd live there until Michael retired from the university. But when the tenure process didn't work out and we found ourselves here in CA, we carried on smartly to do what needed to be done. And now that we're (mostly) settled into our new digs and getting used to our new surroundings...I don't know...it's just hard. I wish I could have picked up our house and our neighborhood and moved it here to CA. It's not even that I'm so attached to Dayton...Michael is, but I'm not so much. But I do miss our friends and the familiarity that comes from having lived someplace for a number of years.
What makes it harder is that the buyers have already called the utility companies to transfer the billing and I can't help but feel annoyed that they're doing this when it's not their house yet. I know it's stupid to feel this way but it's our house until they sign on the dotted lines. Our house. I can't believe other people are going to be living in our house...
I think it's good that we live so far away because that gives us the physical distance to lend us the emotional distance we need. We'll always have fond memories of our time there. Admittedly, it's a relief to sell so quickly in this market and to have gotten a good sale price, at that. It's also nice not to have a rent payment plus mortgage payment every month. Still, I can't help but feel sad. I'm really going to miss that house...
p.s. I found the futon hardware--hurray!
Well, most of you don't know this but the neighbors do...the sale of our house is pending and we close at the end of the week. We've chosen not to discuss this with anyone other than our parents--mostly for superstitious reasons but also because this is so hard. We love our house (although I had some serious moments of intense dislike while prepping it for sale) and our neighborhood and are so sad that we must turn over the keys to new owners. I hope they love our house as much as we do and hope they don't do anything horrible to it like paint the woodwork.
There was a time when we thought we'd live there until Michael retired from the university. But when the tenure process didn't work out and we found ourselves here in CA, we carried on smartly to do what needed to be done. And now that we're (mostly) settled into our new digs and getting used to our new surroundings...I don't know...it's just hard. I wish I could have picked up our house and our neighborhood and moved it here to CA. It's not even that I'm so attached to Dayton...Michael is, but I'm not so much. But I do miss our friends and the familiarity that comes from having lived someplace for a number of years.
What makes it harder is that the buyers have already called the utility companies to transfer the billing and I can't help but feel annoyed that they're doing this when it's not their house yet. I know it's stupid to feel this way but it's our house until they sign on the dotted lines. Our house. I can't believe other people are going to be living in our house...
I think it's good that we live so far away because that gives us the physical distance to lend us the emotional distance we need. We'll always have fond memories of our time there. Admittedly, it's a relief to sell so quickly in this market and to have gotten a good sale price, at that. It's also nice not to have a rent payment plus mortgage payment every month. Still, I can't help but feel sad. I'm really going to miss that house...
p.s. I found the futon hardware--hurray!
7.28.2008
It's Christmas in July!
I know I only just packed all these boxes and boxes of stuff from our house in Dayton but opening them this weekend was like having Christmas in July. Ooh! My fiestaware! The coffee pot! Our bed! Our sheets! The clasps for the dog's crate! Whee!
All of the fun-ness was overshadowed a smidge by the occasional discovery of broken or damaged items. Our headboard has an enormous gouge mark in it and a chunk of wood is missing from the face. The mattress is broken. We can sleep on it for now but it will have to be replaced soon-ish because the springs are already poking out of the side of the fabric. The place where we bought it only has locations as far west as OH and WI...I'm just not sure it can be repaired, anyway. Boo. Also, an entire box of coffee cups has to go in the trash. Some of those cups were favorites...the ugly one from LAX that my friend Karen brought me...the pretty blue and white one Gwen's parents bought me when they took me with them to visit Grg her freshman year at Wesleyan...and the funny "disappearing" Bill of Rights mug from my SIL. Boo. I know they're just coffee cups but I love them. Some favorites survived so there's my silver lining.
The furniture is scuffed and lots of things are wobbly. The top of the ship case broke but Michael will have it all fixed by tonight. Oh, and the paint roller extension bar is squashed flat at a pancake. Not a big deal but if I thought it would be squashed beyond repair I would have just given it to my dad. Still can't find the hardware for the futon...we might need to buy new screws and things...All in all, tho, not too bad. The moving company will be hearing from me tomorrow. The headboard and mattress damage is just to great to overlook and losing the futon hardware is just a plain old pain in the arse.
The house is coming together nicely and we're slowly finding places for all of our things. We don't have nearly enough closet space but we're going to hold on to a few of those plastic tubs and will make use of the space saver bags for linens and clothes. The garage has plenty of space and we should be able to park the car in it shortly. We're still sorting out some stuff but I think we can make it all work. But first, I need to empty out the rest of the stuff in the apartment. More pics soon!
I know I only just packed all these boxes and boxes of stuff from our house in Dayton but opening them this weekend was like having Christmas in July. Ooh! My fiestaware! The coffee pot! Our bed! Our sheets! The clasps for the dog's crate! Whee!
All of the fun-ness was overshadowed a smidge by the occasional discovery of broken or damaged items. Our headboard has an enormous gouge mark in it and a chunk of wood is missing from the face. The mattress is broken. We can sleep on it for now but it will have to be replaced soon-ish because the springs are already poking out of the side of the fabric. The place where we bought it only has locations as far west as OH and WI...I'm just not sure it can be repaired, anyway. Boo. Also, an entire box of coffee cups has to go in the trash. Some of those cups were favorites...the ugly one from LAX that my friend Karen brought me...the pretty blue and white one Gwen's parents bought me when they took me with them to visit Grg her freshman year at Wesleyan...and the funny "disappearing" Bill of Rights mug from my SIL. Boo. I know they're just coffee cups but I love them. Some favorites survived so there's my silver lining.
The furniture is scuffed and lots of things are wobbly. The top of the ship case broke but Michael will have it all fixed by tonight. Oh, and the paint roller extension bar is squashed flat at a pancake. Not a big deal but if I thought it would be squashed beyond repair I would have just given it to my dad. Still can't find the hardware for the futon...we might need to buy new screws and things...All in all, tho, not too bad. The moving company will be hearing from me tomorrow. The headboard and mattress damage is just to great to overlook and losing the futon hardware is just a plain old pain in the arse.
The house is coming together nicely and we're slowly finding places for all of our things. We don't have nearly enough closet space but we're going to hold on to a few of those plastic tubs and will make use of the space saver bags for linens and clothes. The garage has plenty of space and we should be able to park the car in it shortly. We're still sorting out some stuff but I think we can make it all work. But first, I need to empty out the rest of the stuff in the apartment. More pics soon!
7.24.2008
Picture time!
This is the dog trying to beat the heat by digging a hole next to this
lovely bush and then laying in it.
Hello, crazy Jurassic Park-looking plant in the backyard!
This is the dog hiding in the rose bushes because I was inside using the vacuum.
She is such a big baby.
This is Michael's "fierce" face. He does "fierce" better than I do.
Of course, nobody's "fierce" is as good as Gwen's.
Guess where we went?
lovely bush and then laying in it.
Hello, crazy Jurassic Park-looking plant in the backyard!
This is the dog hiding in the rose bushes because I was inside using the vacuum.
She is such a big baby.
This is Michael's "fierce" face. He does "fierce" better than I do.
Of course, nobody's "fierce" is as good as Gwen's.
Guess where we went?
7.23.2008
Move in day!
We're (almost) all moved in--yay! The storage unit is empty and our tiny little house is full of our enormous furniture and the garage is chock full of boxes. The BRs are painted, the floors vacuumed and cleaned and now it's time to put the bed and futon together and start unpacking. Sort of. I bought more contact paper this morning and some cleaner for the cabinets in the kitchen and then I can unpack. I was planning to do that this afternoon but I've been waylaid by our house in Dayton.
Got a call from our realtor re: some stuff that needs to be fixed and now I'm scrambling about trying to call some contractors to fix this stuff for us. All I have to say is that it is an absolute bitch trying to sell your house when you don't live in (or near) it. That house is a 100-year-old monkey on our backs...sigh...but now we have a lovely back yard to enjoy! And a large covered porch! And beautiful weather! And boxes to unpack! Did I mention the back yard?
We're (almost) all moved in--yay! The storage unit is empty and our tiny little house is full of our enormous furniture and the garage is chock full of boxes. The BRs are painted, the floors vacuumed and cleaned and now it's time to put the bed and futon together and start unpacking. Sort of. I bought more contact paper this morning and some cleaner for the cabinets in the kitchen and then I can unpack. I was planning to do that this afternoon but I've been waylaid by our house in Dayton.
Got a call from our realtor re: some stuff that needs to be fixed and now I'm scrambling about trying to call some contractors to fix this stuff for us. All I have to say is that it is an absolute bitch trying to sell your house when you don't live in (or near) it. That house is a 100-year-old monkey on our backs...sigh...but now we have a lovely back yard to enjoy! And a large covered porch! And beautiful weather! And boxes to unpack! Did I mention the back yard?
7.22.2008
Still painting...
I'm still painting the 2 bedrooms. Actually, I'm only painting one bedroom as the other is fini. I hope. We did a combo of brush and roller on the trim and I felt that yesterday's rolled parts could use a touch up. I finished the windows this morning but will have to see how they look when I go back this afternoon. Still have to do the doors but will attempt that this afternoon. I will post some pics soon.
Tomorrow is furniture move in day so there is a lot to finish before 7:30 am tomorrow. I still need to finish the trim in the master BR and vacuum and mop the floor with some oil soap. Then, we will be ready. The next couple of days involve cleaning the kitchen cabinets (not sure they've been cleaned in the last 10 years) and putting down new contact paper. Then lots and lots and lots of unpacking. Then? We'll be ready for house guests. Who wants to come for a visit?
I'm still painting the 2 bedrooms. Actually, I'm only painting one bedroom as the other is fini. I hope. We did a combo of brush and roller on the trim and I felt that yesterday's rolled parts could use a touch up. I finished the windows this morning but will have to see how they look when I go back this afternoon. Still have to do the doors but will attempt that this afternoon. I will post some pics soon.
Tomorrow is furniture move in day so there is a lot to finish before 7:30 am tomorrow. I still need to finish the trim in the master BR and vacuum and mop the floor with some oil soap. Then, we will be ready. The next couple of days involve cleaning the kitchen cabinets (not sure they've been cleaned in the last 10 years) and putting down new contact paper. Then lots and lots and lots of unpacking. Then? We'll be ready for house guests. Who wants to come for a visit?
7.15.2008
Pics of the house!
The kitchen. Appliances look fairly new-ish and I like the floor and laminate on the countertops but I'm not a huge fan of the dark cabinets. A fair bit of cabinet space, tho.
The "dining room" if it can be called that. It's more like the other side of the living room. It will easily accommodate our enormous dining room table and that's the important thing.
Sigh. The bathroom. It is tiny. Look at that tiny little midget toilet. This makes me miss our bathrooms in Dayton like you would not believe. This bathroom has been kept clean and there's no icky mold in the grout so all is not lost. Don't like the shower doors but removing them will be a later project.
Just one shot of the backyard. I'm not sure that you can tell that the planters there are resting inside a water garden sans water. The fountain is off to the left...I'm not sure if it's still functional nor am I terribly interested in the maintenance of a water garden and fountain but maybe next year.
Stay tuned; more pics to come!
7.11.2008
Tell me I'm crazy...
Because I must be certifiably insane. Despite all the painting/sanding/cleaning/packing/scrubbing/more painting/painting/painting that I did in the 3 months from job offer to move I find myself wanting to paint. I'm crazy, right?
See, we're moving into a rental house and all the walls are white. White. Ick. Admittedly, the crazy 1970's gold patterned wallpaper in the bathroom was really ugly, but they've since painted those walls white and it's okay in the bathroom and even the kitchen but not elsewhere. And they did take down that hideous dark wood paneled wall in the living room but now, you guessed it, the wall is white. But, we're starting small and there won't be any prep work. We're going to paint the 2 bedrooms in Adobe Straw (by Behr but we're going to find an equivalent in Valspar) and after that, we'll consider doing the living room and dining room later on.
I also want to take down the shower doors and replace with a curved shower rod and a cute shower curtain...not sure if we'll do that right away. I would also like a "tall man" toilet like the ones we purchased for our house in Dayton. After that, some nicer window treatments to cover up the ugly vertical and horizontal blinds that are all over the house and spiffing up some of the landscaping out back will be about it. Really. I swear. I know Michael is reading this and shaking his head (hi, honey!) but it'll be worth it. Right?
Because I must be certifiably insane. Despite all the painting/sanding/cleaning/packing/scrubbing/more painting/painting/painting that I did in the 3 months from job offer to move I find myself wanting to paint. I'm crazy, right?
See, we're moving into a rental house and all the walls are white. White. Ick. Admittedly, the crazy 1970's gold patterned wallpaper in the bathroom was really ugly, but they've since painted those walls white and it's okay in the bathroom and even the kitchen but not elsewhere. And they did take down that hideous dark wood paneled wall in the living room but now, you guessed it, the wall is white. But, we're starting small and there won't be any prep work. We're going to paint the 2 bedrooms in Adobe Straw (by Behr but we're going to find an equivalent in Valspar) and after that, we'll consider doing the living room and dining room later on.
I also want to take down the shower doors and replace with a curved shower rod and a cute shower curtain...not sure if we'll do that right away. I would also like a "tall man" toilet like the ones we purchased for our house in Dayton. After that, some nicer window treatments to cover up the ugly vertical and horizontal blinds that are all over the house and spiffing up some of the landscaping out back will be about it. Really. I swear. I know Michael is reading this and shaking his head (hi, honey!) but it'll be worth it. Right?
7.09.2008
Wiped Out...
This will be short because, as you can see by the title, I am wiped out. Got back yesterday from bridesmaid/whirlwind to the beach land and am tirreeeeddddd. I'm missing all of you already but am glad to be back. I have a massive "to do" list to tackle but now, I'm going to lay back down on my couch and read my book.
p.s. I realize I was remiss in mentioning Michael now has a blog: Life, Hope and Vittles. He tells the story of our adventures with Cletus much better than I do.
This will be short because, as you can see by the title, I am wiped out. Got back yesterday from bridesmaid/whirlwind to the beach land and am tirreeeeddddd. I'm missing all of you already but am glad to be back. I have a massive "to do" list to tackle but now, I'm going to lay back down on my couch and read my book.
p.s. I realize I was remiss in mentioning Michael now has a blog: Life, Hope and Vittles. He tells the story of our adventures with Cletus much better than I do.
7.02.2008
Adventures in Bicycling...
Now that we're Californians and all, we need to do the California thing and ride our bikes everywhere and, for the ladies, be skinny, tan and blonde. Let me tell you right now: I will be neither tan nor blonde. Skinny wouldn't be bad but I don't think that's in the cards. Anyway.
So, this week, I decided that I would ride my bike, along with Michael, to his office and then I would bike home. This is a 10 mile round trip and while it's mostly flat, it involves plenty of pedaling and racing to intersections to make as many lights as possible. And it's been fun so far (and good exercise) but it can be a little scary at times and I'm still working on my bicycle fierceness. One problem is that I don't have a really "good" bike, not that it's a bad bike, but it's not a California bike. It's not a $600 lightweight, no kickstand, cool-looking bike with helpful foot thingies that keep your feet on the pedals. But it'll do. Michael is going to take it to a bike shop this weekend to have the gears adjusted which will help tremendously.
The bigger issue is my lack of fierceness. I need to be more aggressive around cars when I'm riding. This is hard b/c I am convinced that they will run my ass off the street. Most roads around here have designated bike lanes but in CA, there are legal U-turns so this morning I watched a car make a U-turn and nearly mow down the guy in front of me b/c the driver drove right into the bike lane in order to execute his turn. And where there are no bike lanes, I need to be more aggressive about taking up enough space in the road to keep cars from forcing me off the road and into the gutter. And my husband kindly alerted me to the fact that I need to leave plenty of space between me and parked cars in case a driver opens her car door in front of me. I don't fancy myself the star of some video you'd see on those funniest (stupidest) home video shows where some poor guy gets hit in the nuts or, in my case, I go flying off my bike and do a face plant in the street.
This morning's ride was my last for at least 6 days since I'm taking the red eye tonight for Alissa's and Todd's wedding. That'll give me time to work on my fierce (maybe Gwen will help me with my look) so that when I get back I'll be ready.
Now that we're Californians and all, we need to do the California thing and ride our bikes everywhere and, for the ladies, be skinny, tan and blonde. Let me tell you right now: I will be neither tan nor blonde. Skinny wouldn't be bad but I don't think that's in the cards. Anyway.
So, this week, I decided that I would ride my bike, along with Michael, to his office and then I would bike home. This is a 10 mile round trip and while it's mostly flat, it involves plenty of pedaling and racing to intersections to make as many lights as possible. And it's been fun so far (and good exercise) but it can be a little scary at times and I'm still working on my bicycle fierceness. One problem is that I don't have a really "good" bike, not that it's a bad bike, but it's not a California bike. It's not a $600 lightweight, no kickstand, cool-looking bike with helpful foot thingies that keep your feet on the pedals. But it'll do. Michael is going to take it to a bike shop this weekend to have the gears adjusted which will help tremendously.
The bigger issue is my lack of fierceness. I need to be more aggressive around cars when I'm riding. This is hard b/c I am convinced that they will run my ass off the street. Most roads around here have designated bike lanes but in CA, there are legal U-turns so this morning I watched a car make a U-turn and nearly mow down the guy in front of me b/c the driver drove right into the bike lane in order to execute his turn. And where there are no bike lanes, I need to be more aggressive about taking up enough space in the road to keep cars from forcing me off the road and into the gutter. And my husband kindly alerted me to the fact that I need to leave plenty of space between me and parked cars in case a driver opens her car door in front of me. I don't fancy myself the star of some video you'd see on those funniest (stupidest) home video shows where some poor guy gets hit in the nuts or, in my case, I go flying off my bike and do a face plant in the street.
This morning's ride was my last for at least 6 days since I'm taking the red eye tonight for Alissa's and Todd's wedding. That'll give me time to work on my fierce (maybe Gwen will help me with my look) so that when I get back I'll be ready.
6.27.2008
The downside to CA...
Well, to be honest, there is more than one downside but today it involves the fact that being this far away means that I can't be proximal to my mother when there's trouble in the family. My mom's cousin and step-sister by marriage is dying of cancer and while they weren't terribly close, it's still a sad time. My mom's family has been through a lot of late and I wish I could be with her during these times. But now that I'm out here, I can't just hop in the car and drive East. Boo.
On top of that, we've started looking for an apartment and the cost of living here is enough to induce an anxiety attack. We've discovered that anything that costs less than $1600/month is almost always a crap hole. And, frankly, the older I get, the less likely I am to lower my standards on things like this and I am not living in a crap hole just to save a couple hundred bucks a month. I told my financial planner as much last night. I also told him I'd rather postpone retirement (why yes, we do have a retirement plan and I highly recommend that you get one) by a few more years than live in squalor. Not that we'd ever live in squalor but you know what I mean. So...it looks like something in the $1800 to $2000 range for us. That is a lot of money. A lot. And, yes, I knew it would be like this and the cost of living in most large cities is about the same but still. The sticker shock. It kills me. Boo. I say boo.
Well, to be honest, there is more than one downside but today it involves the fact that being this far away means that I can't be proximal to my mother when there's trouble in the family. My mom's cousin and step-sister by marriage is dying of cancer and while they weren't terribly close, it's still a sad time. My mom's family has been through a lot of late and I wish I could be with her during these times. But now that I'm out here, I can't just hop in the car and drive East. Boo.
On top of that, we've started looking for an apartment and the cost of living here is enough to induce an anxiety attack. We've discovered that anything that costs less than $1600/month is almost always a crap hole. And, frankly, the older I get, the less likely I am to lower my standards on things like this and I am not living in a crap hole just to save a couple hundred bucks a month. I told my financial planner as much last night. I also told him I'd rather postpone retirement (why yes, we do have a retirement plan and I highly recommend that you get one) by a few more years than live in squalor. Not that we'd ever live in squalor but you know what I mean. So...it looks like something in the $1800 to $2000 range for us. That is a lot of money. A lot. And, yes, I knew it would be like this and the cost of living in most large cities is about the same but still. The sticker shock. It kills me. Boo. I say boo.
6.24.2008
My first week...
Well, it's been a bit more relaxing, to say the least. I spend a decent amount of time surfing the 'nets in an effort to take care of business re: the house or trying to find out where the nearest farmers market/CSA/bookstore/T@rget/etc. are located. Now that we've liberated our bike pump and found the helmets, I can ride my bike to all these wonderful places. I'm also looking out for discounts and deals of events and attractions and I am all about using my triple A card and entertainment book for coupons.
In the afternoon I read, walk the dog, cook dinner, write postcards, watch a little f00d network, unpack a box, you know, the usual stuff. Not too strenuous. Until yesterday.
Yesterday I went a little "weekend warrior" on a Tuesday but I didn't do it on purpose. I've been trying to get back into a regular exercise routine now that I no longer have to paint or pack and move heavy boxes around so yesterday I did some circuit training (why didn't I think this one through?) and then walked 4 miles to meet Michael for lunch. We had lunch at this really yummy vegetarian restaurant (sesame eggplant with brown garlic sauce and rice mmmmmm....) and then I picked up my bike from the storage unit and rode it the 4.5 miles home. Then I carried my bike up 2 flights of stairs. Yeah...I'm a smidge sore this morning. And clearly out of shape. Durr.
So, what have we done that's fun and exciting? Well, we went to the alumni event in the city last Thurs and that was fun. I met 2 people who are not just alumni but are from our beloved Lanky-town. One of them had Grg's dad in school. It was nice to chat with people who are from the same little town as you. We took the train in, which was nice, but the trip home took longer since the train stopped at every station. I, of course, fell asleep on the ride home. Can't do that while you're behind the wheel.
Friday, our trailer arrived and I spent the afternoon supervising the movers as they unloaded our stuff into our storage unit. Unfortunately many of our boxes are smooshed and caving in and the stand to our large oval mirror was broken. Until we unpack everything I won't know how much damage has occured but let's hope it isn't too extensive.
Saturday, we did some digging in our storage unit. I found the boxes with our mail, dry goods, clothes and cleaning supplies. We went back on Monday to unearth the tupperware, dish drainer and bike pump and helmets. My socks and underwear? Still MIA. I have one pair of socks that I wash, like, every other day because I refuse to buy more. They're in that damn storage unit somewhere! Along with my sports bras and tennis clothes. Need to find those, too.
Sunday, we didn't make it to Sonoma because there was N@SCAR race and I wasn't about to go anywhere near that. Instead we went into the city and met up with friends. We went to a museum that, alas, we did not enjoy b/c it housed mostly modern art. I don't like modern art. And let me just say that from now on Costa's girlfriends are NOT allowed to pick the museum anymore. Ever. Had I known we were going to be subjected to modern art, I would not have wasted the money on admission. Then we headed down to the Embarcadero and had coffee before heading home to the pooch.
Haven't decided what our plans are for this weekend but now that we have our bikes we'll probably do some exploring around here. We don't have locks yet (they're on order) so we can't really take them into the city yet unless we're not planning to get off of them to do anything fun. I want to check out the farmer's market, maybe visit the fruit stand and go to the library.
I leave you with this photo of a jackaranda tree from the park next to the "compound." They remind me of a purple version of japanese cherry trees and are absolutely gorgeous when they are at their peak of season. In fact, this picture doesn't do it justice. Maybe that's because it isn't a picture of the whole tree. Or because I took it instead of a real photographer.
Well, it's been a bit more relaxing, to say the least. I spend a decent amount of time surfing the 'nets in an effort to take care of business re: the house or trying to find out where the nearest farmers market/CSA/bookstore/T@rget/etc. are located. Now that we've liberated our bike pump and found the helmets, I can ride my bike to all these wonderful places. I'm also looking out for discounts and deals of events and attractions and I am all about using my triple A card and entertainment book for coupons.
In the afternoon I read, walk the dog, cook dinner, write postcards, watch a little f00d network, unpack a box, you know, the usual stuff. Not too strenuous. Until yesterday.
Yesterday I went a little "weekend warrior" on a Tuesday but I didn't do it on purpose. I've been trying to get back into a regular exercise routine now that I no longer have to paint or pack and move heavy boxes around so yesterday I did some circuit training (why didn't I think this one through?) and then walked 4 miles to meet Michael for lunch. We had lunch at this really yummy vegetarian restaurant (sesame eggplant with brown garlic sauce and rice mmmmmm....) and then I picked up my bike from the storage unit and rode it the 4.5 miles home. Then I carried my bike up 2 flights of stairs. Yeah...I'm a smidge sore this morning. And clearly out of shape. Durr.
So, what have we done that's fun and exciting? Well, we went to the alumni event in the city last Thurs and that was fun. I met 2 people who are not just alumni but are from our beloved Lanky-town. One of them had Grg's dad in school. It was nice to chat with people who are from the same little town as you. We took the train in, which was nice, but the trip home took longer since the train stopped at every station. I, of course, fell asleep on the ride home. Can't do that while you're behind the wheel.
Friday, our trailer arrived and I spent the afternoon supervising the movers as they unloaded our stuff into our storage unit. Unfortunately many of our boxes are smooshed and caving in and the stand to our large oval mirror was broken. Until we unpack everything I won't know how much damage has occured but let's hope it isn't too extensive.
Saturday, we did some digging in our storage unit. I found the boxes with our mail, dry goods, clothes and cleaning supplies. We went back on Monday to unearth the tupperware, dish drainer and bike pump and helmets. My socks and underwear? Still MIA. I have one pair of socks that I wash, like, every other day because I refuse to buy more. They're in that damn storage unit somewhere! Along with my sports bras and tennis clothes. Need to find those, too.
Sunday, we didn't make it to Sonoma because there was N@SCAR race and I wasn't about to go anywhere near that. Instead we went into the city and met up with friends. We went to a museum that, alas, we did not enjoy b/c it housed mostly modern art. I don't like modern art. And let me just say that from now on Costa's girlfriends are NOT allowed to pick the museum anymore. Ever. Had I known we were going to be subjected to modern art, I would not have wasted the money on admission. Then we headed down to the Embarcadero and had coffee before heading home to the pooch.
Haven't decided what our plans are for this weekend but now that we have our bikes we'll probably do some exploring around here. We don't have locks yet (they're on order) so we can't really take them into the city yet unless we're not planning to get off of them to do anything fun. I want to check out the farmer's market, maybe visit the fruit stand and go to the library.
I leave you with this photo of a jackaranda tree from the park next to the "compound." They remind me of a purple version of japanese cherry trees and are absolutely gorgeous when they are at their peak of season. In fact, this picture doesn't do it justice. Maybe that's because it isn't a picture of the whole tree. Or because I took it instead of a real photographer.
6.19.2008
Finally in Cali...
And it's about darned time! So, my dear husband met me at the airport with a potted hydrangea (while a bouquet of flowers might have been more romantic all of our vases are currently on the moving truck) in one hand and D0ritos in the other...sigh...he's so sweet. Anyway, we headed home to the dog and then took a picnic lunch to the park adjacent to our apartment. Michael made me dinner and kept refilling my champagne glass until I feel asleep, exhausted, at 7:30 before the Simpsons came on tv.
The rest of the week has been pretty relaxing thus far. We got library cards Tuesday night and I brought home 2 books; I'm starting with the book on Queen Elizabeth. Last night we went to an information session at the nursing school I'm applying to. I found out that the deadline for Jan. 1 admission is July 1st and there is not even enough time to submit the app, ask for and receive 2 letters of reference, have transcripts sent or take the standardized test that has become the bane of my existence. Why, oh, why does it have to be this fcking difficult to finish a second undergraduate degree? Why? So, now I will be on track to apply in November for a June 2009 start date. In the meantime, I'm waiting to hear back from someone, anyone for that matter, in the admissions dept so we can sit down and go over my transcripts to ensure that all previous classes and pre-reqs will transfer. Blarg.
Tonight, we are doing something I hope will be more fun. FandM is having an alumni event in downtown San Fran at 5:30 so I'm about to go put on my face and then go meet Michael so we can take the train in. We might be going up to Sonoma this Sunday for wine tasting but we haven't nailed down the details yet. I'm anticipating many fun adventures will ensue and I'll be sure to share them here. In the meantime, here are some photos of my immediate surroundings:
And it's about darned time! So, my dear husband met me at the airport with a potted hydrangea (while a bouquet of flowers might have been more romantic all of our vases are currently on the moving truck) in one hand and D0ritos in the other...sigh...he's so sweet. Anyway, we headed home to the dog and then took a picnic lunch to the park adjacent to our apartment. Michael made me dinner and kept refilling my champagne glass until I feel asleep, exhausted, at 7:30 before the Simpsons came on tv.
The rest of the week has been pretty relaxing thus far. We got library cards Tuesday night and I brought home 2 books; I'm starting with the book on Queen Elizabeth. Last night we went to an information session at the nursing school I'm applying to. I found out that the deadline for Jan. 1 admission is July 1st and there is not even enough time to submit the app, ask for and receive 2 letters of reference, have transcripts sent or take the standardized test that has become the bane of my existence. Why, oh, why does it have to be this fcking difficult to finish a second undergraduate degree? Why? So, now I will be on track to apply in November for a June 2009 start date. In the meantime, I'm waiting to hear back from someone, anyone for that matter, in the admissions dept so we can sit down and go over my transcripts to ensure that all previous classes and pre-reqs will transfer. Blarg.
Tonight, we are doing something I hope will be more fun. FandM is having an alumni event in downtown San Fran at 5:30 so I'm about to go put on my face and then go meet Michael so we can take the train in. We might be going up to Sonoma this Sunday for wine tasting but we haven't nailed down the details yet. I'm anticipating many fun adventures will ensue and I'll be sure to share them here. In the meantime, here are some photos of my immediate surroundings:
The Str@ight-Turner Compound. There are gates everywhere. Plus this lovely
parking garage thing-y is nice, too.
parking garage thing-y is nice, too.
A fountain next to the S@feway where we shop--pretty, no?
The dog spends much of her day sleeping under the bed. This bed is not "Tall Man Friendly" and therefore is much lower to the ground than the one we own. You should see her trying to crawl in and out from under it. Silly dog.
6.11.2008
It's all about the penis...
So, today's lab exam? All about the penis. Mind you, one of the chapters we're covering on our lab and lecture exams is the reproductive system but, seriously, there were way too many penis questions on the lab exam. Penis, penis, penis. Sure, there was an ovary here and a fallopian tube there and a few kidneys but mostly penis. At least that's what it felt like to me.
Okay, back to studying. I'm hanging out at a little, out-of-the-way cafe whose name rhymes with Banera so I can swipe some free WiFi. I'm eating one of those super yummy shortbread cookies and drinking a big cup of coffee and now it is time to end my penis rant and get back to work. On the penis. Okay, to be fair, there's an acid-base system chapter and lymphatics to review as well, but come on...it's all about the penis today.
So, today's lab exam? All about the penis. Mind you, one of the chapters we're covering on our lab and lecture exams is the reproductive system but, seriously, there were way too many penis questions on the lab exam. Penis, penis, penis. Sure, there was an ovary here and a fallopian tube there and a few kidneys but mostly penis. At least that's what it felt like to me.
Okay, back to studying. I'm hanging out at a little, out-of-the-way cafe whose name rhymes with Banera so I can swipe some free WiFi. I'm eating one of those super yummy shortbread cookies and drinking a big cup of coffee and now it is time to end my penis rant and get back to work. On the penis. Okay, to be fair, there's an acid-base system chapter and lymphatics to review as well, but come on...it's all about the penis today.
6.10.2008
Comedy of Errors....
Part one million. Seriously. This will be a v. brief recap as I am sitting in my car in the O. District so I can use some of downtown Dayton's free WiFi (which doesn't go as far as our house, WTF is that about?). Let's just put it this way: I thought we would get more than 2 movers to come load the truck and since I only got 2, it took longer than I thought to get everything on the trailer plus the HaulU rental I needed to get stuff over to my in-laws and a local charity. One of the movers cut his head open (he's okay), it takes forever to get everything loaded up, the phone rings off the hook, I can't remember why I went into the garage/basement/upstairs so I keep wandering around the house and finally around 4 in the afternoon I have to call Michael to bail me out.
The HaulU truck needs to be returned by 7 but the stuff hasn't been delivered and I can't leave the house. FIL extraordinaire shows up to take care of that part but in the meantime, the movers can't figure out how to install the bulkhead and then one of them improperly locks the truck (he locked the lock but didn't lock the doors, fck) and I have to call the trailer co. to come fix it. Ultimately, I have to cancel dinner plans with my neighbors, all so I can stay home to take care of getting rental trucks returned and making sure that no one makes off with our stuff until the trailer guy comes over. And I'm dirty and tired and haven't done a bit of studying for my exams tomorrow.
And then, the badness. I was horribly mean to my husband. I was an asshole (sing it with me...A-S-S-H-O-L-E....I'm an asshole....). I have since apologized (of course) but dang, this is hard.
So, now I'm clean and have done some studying. Going to go back home and study some more and maybe get some shut eye for a few hours. I'm going to sleep on the floor in the house b/c I can't bring myself to pay for a hotel room in which I won't really get any sleep and I can't deal with being around people right now...not even my in-laws. I just have to keep my eyes on the prize. In 23 hours I will be done with my last exam and Thurs am I can start driving to Lankytown. Can't wait. Almost there. Almost....there....
Part one million. Seriously. This will be a v. brief recap as I am sitting in my car in the O. District so I can use some of downtown Dayton's free WiFi (which doesn't go as far as our house, WTF is that about?). Let's just put it this way: I thought we would get more than 2 movers to come load the truck and since I only got 2, it took longer than I thought to get everything on the trailer plus the HaulU rental I needed to get stuff over to my in-laws and a local charity. One of the movers cut his head open (he's okay), it takes forever to get everything loaded up, the phone rings off the hook, I can't remember why I went into the garage/basement/upstairs so I keep wandering around the house and finally around 4 in the afternoon I have to call Michael to bail me out.
The HaulU truck needs to be returned by 7 but the stuff hasn't been delivered and I can't leave the house. FIL extraordinaire shows up to take care of that part but in the meantime, the movers can't figure out how to install the bulkhead and then one of them improperly locks the truck (he locked the lock but didn't lock the doors, fck) and I have to call the trailer co. to come fix it. Ultimately, I have to cancel dinner plans with my neighbors, all so I can stay home to take care of getting rental trucks returned and making sure that no one makes off with our stuff until the trailer guy comes over. And I'm dirty and tired and haven't done a bit of studying for my exams tomorrow.
And then, the badness. I was horribly mean to my husband. I was an asshole (sing it with me...A-S-S-H-O-L-E....I'm an asshole....). I have since apologized (of course) but dang, this is hard.
So, now I'm clean and have done some studying. Going to go back home and study some more and maybe get some shut eye for a few hours. I'm going to sleep on the floor in the house b/c I can't bring myself to pay for a hotel room in which I won't really get any sleep and I can't deal with being around people right now...not even my in-laws. I just have to keep my eyes on the prize. In 23 hours I will be done with my last exam and Thurs am I can start driving to Lankytown. Can't wait. Almost there. Almost....there....
6.05.2008
For fcking better or worse...
This move...sigh...I know, more whining about moving. I'm even tired of it but, alas, it's my party and I'll whine if I want to.
So, you stand before your officiant and take your marriage vows alongside your beloved and you say them...and you really do mean them. And sometimes life hands you shit sandwiches and down the hatch they go and here you are reflecting on your wedding vows because those vows are the only thing keeping you from reaching your arm out 2500 miles and ripping your husband's head off. And I know that this rough patch is probably not the worst we'll see during what I hope will be decades of marriage but this fcking sucks. SO MUCH.
And I am very, very tired of this situation. I am tired of being the only one in charge. I am tired of being the one who makes the phone calls and arrangements for sub-contractors, movers, glass crating companies, realtors, more sub-contractors and various cleaning companies. And I know that these are things that only I can do b/c I am the one who is here to let people in, take measurements, write checks, etc. and goodness knows that Michael is helping as much as he can. But. These are the things that make me long for my single days in a one-bedroom apt with my dog. I just want to crawl in a hole and never come out. Instead, however, I'm going to drag my ass to the post office, the UH@ul store, the hardware store, G00dwill and the Upscale Resale store to drop off donations and go to the bank. And then come home and pack my ass off. Blarg. Hate everything.
This move...sigh...I know, more whining about moving. I'm even tired of it but, alas, it's my party and I'll whine if I want to.
So, you stand before your officiant and take your marriage vows alongside your beloved and you say them...and you really do mean them. And sometimes life hands you shit sandwiches and down the hatch they go and here you are reflecting on your wedding vows because those vows are the only thing keeping you from reaching your arm out 2500 miles and ripping your husband's head off. And I know that this rough patch is probably not the worst we'll see during what I hope will be decades of marriage but this fcking sucks. SO MUCH.
And I am very, very tired of this situation. I am tired of being the only one in charge. I am tired of being the one who makes the phone calls and arrangements for sub-contractors, movers, glass crating companies, realtors, more sub-contractors and various cleaning companies. And I know that these are things that only I can do b/c I am the one who is here to let people in, take measurements, write checks, etc. and goodness knows that Michael is helping as much as he can. But. These are the things that make me long for my single days in a one-bedroom apt with my dog. I just want to crawl in a hole and never come out. Instead, however, I'm going to drag my ass to the post office, the UH@ul store, the hardware store, G00dwill and the Upscale Resale store to drop off donations and go to the bank. And then come home and pack my ass off. Blarg. Hate everything.
6.03.2008
6.02.2008
So much to do and not enough time...
So....I leave the state I've called home for the last 5+ years in 10 days. 10 days. 10 DAYS! I am so not ready. Physically ready, that is. I've put off the remainder of the packing in part b/c we had an open house yesterday and we wanted it to still be "staged" but now the furious packing must begin. I'm struggling with this b/c I know that I have 2 smallish suitcases out of which I will live until the 15th and I just don't know what I'm going to need and I can't make myself think that far ahead.
In the meantime, I'm trying to say my goodbyes and that's hard to do. We know we won't be coming back to OH any time soon so unless our friends and family come to see us in Cali we won't be seeing anyone for a long time.
And yet I feel a bit anxious to get the heck out of dodge. I just want to be with my husband and my dog and I no longer care much about anything else. I want to get back to some semblance of "normal" and the only way to do that is to be with my beloved and our mutt. But it's only 10 more days. 10 days. That's going to go by quickly.
So....I leave the state I've called home for the last 5+ years in 10 days. 10 days. 10 DAYS! I am so not ready. Physically ready, that is. I've put off the remainder of the packing in part b/c we had an open house yesterday and we wanted it to still be "staged" but now the furious packing must begin. I'm struggling with this b/c I know that I have 2 smallish suitcases out of which I will live until the 15th and I just don't know what I'm going to need and I can't make myself think that far ahead.
In the meantime, I'm trying to say my goodbyes and that's hard to do. We know we won't be coming back to OH any time soon so unless our friends and family come to see us in Cali we won't be seeing anyone for a long time.
And yet I feel a bit anxious to get the heck out of dodge. I just want to be with my husband and my dog and I no longer care much about anything else. I want to get back to some semblance of "normal" and the only way to do that is to be with my beloved and our mutt. But it's only 10 more days. 10 days. That's going to go by quickly.
5.23.2008
5.19.2008
A message from my dog...Where is the Short One who feeds me and walks me and rubs my ears just the way I like? It's Tall Man, Tall Man, Tall Man all the time here...where the hell are we, anyway? Can you believe these people stuck me in a car for 4 days while they drove us past some dirt and rocks and shit?!? Unbelievable. And the Short One was always turning around in her seat to take pictures of me while I tried to sleep. Bitch. Oh, and she's always coming after me with a kleenex in her hand and wiping my eyes. I hate that. And now the Tall Man does it. I'm hungry. I think I'll go bark at a cat that's outside some 3 blocks away. Yeah, and then I'll go sleep under the bed. I wonder what happened to the Short One...? Rub my belly.
5.06.2008
A recap of the trip to Cali....
It's been a week since my return to Ohio and I finally got the pics off the digital camera so that I might post them for your enjoyment. I will let Michael give you the down and dirty details of our crazy adventures with a mechanic in Utah that we will call "Cletus."
The trip started with breakfast at our favorite place. I had the pancakes and Michael had eggs and the french (that's right, french toast, not fcking "freedom" toast) toast. And, of course, there was lots of coffee.
And then we went home, loaded up the car and the dog and headed west. We talked and sang along to CDs and took turns petting the dog. We stopped in St. Louis to see the Arch. That's Michael and Esme down there. They are so tiny.
Esme had to use the facilities at the Arch:
We stopped that night in Kansas City, MO b/c I just couldn't drive another hour. I was so pooped out that as soon as we checked in to our hotel I was asleep in bed. And my wonderful husband took our mutt outside for last pee pee so that I could remain passed out in bed.
The next morning we crossed the state line into Kansas about 20 minutes into our drive. This is a wind farm in Kansas (plus some glare from the window--Angie and Joel I am not):
After...how shall I say....an unbelievably horrifying drive thru the Rockies at night (my husband is lucky there wasn't a divorce lawyer handy b/c I thought we were going to die), we woke up to this magnificence:
There was more to this post but I seem to have lost it....where have you gone, post? Damn. Okay, will post the sequel to our trip to Cali in another post. But first, is this not beautiful?
It's been a week since my return to Ohio and I finally got the pics off the digital camera so that I might post them for your enjoyment. I will let Michael give you the down and dirty details of our crazy adventures with a mechanic in Utah that we will call "Cletus."
The trip started with breakfast at our favorite place. I had the pancakes and Michael had eggs and the french (that's right, french toast, not fcking "freedom" toast) toast. And, of course, there was lots of coffee.
And then we went home, loaded up the car and the dog and headed west. We talked and sang along to CDs and took turns petting the dog. We stopped in St. Louis to see the Arch. That's Michael and Esme down there. They are so tiny.
Esme had to use the facilities at the Arch:
We stopped that night in Kansas City, MO b/c I just couldn't drive another hour. I was so pooped out that as soon as we checked in to our hotel I was asleep in bed. And my wonderful husband took our mutt outside for last pee pee so that I could remain passed out in bed.
The next morning we crossed the state line into Kansas about 20 minutes into our drive. This is a wind farm in Kansas (plus some glare from the window--Angie and Joel I am not):
After...how shall I say....an unbelievably horrifying drive thru the Rockies at night (my husband is lucky there wasn't a divorce lawyer handy b/c I thought we were going to die), we woke up to this magnificence:
There was more to this post but I seem to have lost it....where have you gone, post? Damn. Okay, will post the sequel to our trip to Cali in another post. But first, is this not beautiful?
4.30.2008
Too tired...
To write about our...exciting, nay, death-defying trip to Cali-for-nee-ya. Seriously. There's nothing like being trapped in the desert in Utah on a Saturday afternoon and being told that your alternator is bad. Fck. Alas, everything is fine and I am back in Ohio laying in my bed. Details will be forthcoming soon as well as some photos taken on the road. All is well except that I miss my husband and my dog and that the house we've called "home" for the last 4+ years no longer feels like "home" without them. Sigh...
To write about our...exciting, nay, death-defying trip to Cali-for-nee-ya. Seriously. There's nothing like being trapped in the desert in Utah on a Saturday afternoon and being told that your alternator is bad. Fck. Alas, everything is fine and I am back in Ohio laying in my bed. Details will be forthcoming soon as well as some photos taken on the road. All is well except that I miss my husband and my dog and that the house we've called "home" for the last 4+ years no longer feels like "home" without them. Sigh...
4.27.2008
4.03.2008
Sticker shock...
And we haven't even moved to CA yet. Michael and I are suffering from a little sticker shock for some things we need to do to get our house ready for the market. We had some anticipated expenses like the purchase of more paint, powerwashing our house, tiling our floor in the kitchen, refinishing the stairs and landing on the second floor... but then we've accumulated additional expenses like some electrical work that needs to be done to the tune of $1100. And our realtor suggested new counter tops in the kitchen (yeah, we're going with new laminate instead). Naturally all the stuff that needs to be done by a professional seems to cost something with 4 figures in it. Blarg.
We're fortunate that Michael's new employer has offered such a generous relocation package but it seems we're going to use an awful lot of that money just to get our house ready to be sold. We haven't even finished running the figures for moving and storing all of our belongings. Sigh...
And we haven't even moved to CA yet. Michael and I are suffering from a little sticker shock for some things we need to do to get our house ready for the market. We had some anticipated expenses like the purchase of more paint, powerwashing our house, tiling our floor in the kitchen, refinishing the stairs and landing on the second floor... but then we've accumulated additional expenses like some electrical work that needs to be done to the tune of $1100. And our realtor suggested new counter tops in the kitchen (yeah, we're going with new laminate instead). Naturally all the stuff that needs to be done by a professional seems to cost something with 4 figures in it. Blarg.
We're fortunate that Michael's new employer has offered such a generous relocation package but it seems we're going to use an awful lot of that money just to get our house ready to be sold. We haven't even finished running the figures for moving and storing all of our belongings. Sigh...
3.30.2008
3.27.2008
Reality sets in...
It's been 6 days since we found out we are moving and now reality has set in. Michael and I are feeling positively overwhelmed by everything. And, yes, we know, "do one thing at a time" and all that but there are moments when that doesn't help. Thank goodness I have off from work and school this week b/c I would have been a disaster for sure. My mind is just constantly thinking things that need to be fixed, packed, sold, moved, given away, cleaned, etc. that it's hard to keep them all straight sometimes. To combat this issue, Michael and I are using google docs to help keep everything in order. Thank goodness for the internets.
The hardest part so far has been watching how sad this move makes my husband. I know he's excited about this really freakin' awesome job he got but he's a family guy and I know it pains him to move so far away from them. The second hardest part has been contemplating my return to this house with neither husband nor dog in tow. It reminds me so much of when my mom and brother moved to the Chicago-area after graduation but I returned to Lanky-town for 6 weeks to finish my scholarship obligation. Plus I was living by myself in a house with no furniture and only a few dishes and it was just weird. This time Grandma won't be packing every last dish until it's time to put everything on the moving truck:> It's a bittersweet time to be sure.
So, enough moping. Must get dressed and start painting. And do some more laundry. And meet with our realtor. And keep my sanity.
It's been 6 days since we found out we are moving and now reality has set in. Michael and I are feeling positively overwhelmed by everything. And, yes, we know, "do one thing at a time" and all that but there are moments when that doesn't help. Thank goodness I have off from work and school this week b/c I would have been a disaster for sure. My mind is just constantly thinking things that need to be fixed, packed, sold, moved, given away, cleaned, etc. that it's hard to keep them all straight sometimes. To combat this issue, Michael and I are using google docs to help keep everything in order. Thank goodness for the internets.
The hardest part so far has been watching how sad this move makes my husband. I know he's excited about this really freakin' awesome job he got but he's a family guy and I know it pains him to move so far away from them. The second hardest part has been contemplating my return to this house with neither husband nor dog in tow. It reminds me so much of when my mom and brother moved to the Chicago-area after graduation but I returned to Lanky-town for 6 weeks to finish my scholarship obligation. Plus I was living by myself in a house with no furniture and only a few dishes and it was just weird. This time Grandma won't be packing every last dish until it's time to put everything on the moving truck:> It's a bittersweet time to be sure.
So, enough moping. Must get dressed and start painting. And do some more laundry. And meet with our realtor. And keep my sanity.
3.25.2008
The big news!
At last! Michael accepted a job at a lovely robotics company (musn't say the name lest we be dooced) in Sunnyvale, CA near San Jose. We're moving him and the dog at the end of April and I will be returning to finish the spring quarter at school and get our house packed and ready for sale. More news to come soon! A job! Finally! California! Moving! Aack!
At last! Michael accepted a job at a lovely robotics company (musn't say the name lest we be dooced) in Sunnyvale, CA near San Jose. We're moving him and the dog at the end of April and I will be returning to finish the spring quarter at school and get our house packed and ready for sale. More news to come soon! A job! Finally! California! Moving! Aack!
3.19.2008
5 years later...
Okay, I meant to post this last month but what can I say? I'm a procrastinator and busy as hell.
5 years ago I moved to Ohio from Lanky-town and a whole crazy lot has happened. Let's review:
We're facing a lot of uncertainty until Michael gets a new job and then we'll be off on some new adventure. Stay tuned....
Okay, I meant to post this last month but what can I say? I'm a procrastinator and busy as hell.
5 years ago I moved to Ohio from Lanky-town and a whole crazy lot has happened. Let's review:
- I moved into my first "big girl" apartment where I lived (blessedly) alone with my 4-legged companion
- I was adopted by my awesome friend Marg, who introduced me to the city and to internet dating and has made my life in OH way more entertaining than it otherwise might have been
- I tried internet dating. All in all, a fairly good experience as far as dating goes and that's how I met my wonderful and amazing husband
- I met Michael in Jan '04 and here we are happily married for over 2 years. We have a very nice life (albeit a tad stressful at the mo'), a beautiful home and each other.
- We also have a mortgage and HELOC debt, we've put 2 dogs to sleep and adopted a third, deal regularly with crazy family member issues and struggle to keep our sanity while Michael looks for a job
- I realized along the way that non-profit organizations are every bit as soul sucking as for-profit companies but without the salary and benefits package, bonuses and extra PTO that for-profits often provide. We're expected to pay our bills with warm fuzzies instead.
- Oh, yes. My parents got divorced somewhere in there. I almost forgot that one.
- I quit my "real" job and took a waitressing gig while going to nursing school.
- Realized the life plan I had when I came out here 5 years ago is nothing like real life as it has unfolded.
We're facing a lot of uncertainty until Michael gets a new job and then we'll be off on some new adventure. Stay tuned....
2.29.2008
Memoir in six words....
Work in progress..much to do.
Be sure to go to Salon.com to see what others had to say.
Work in progress..much to do.
Be sure to go to Salon.com to see what others had to say.
2.11.2008
Aack (and why we should support universal health care)...
In an effort to make good on one of my new year's resolutions, I dragged my husband upstairs for some quality time and in return I got a UTI. And I come to the realization that, yes, it is a UTI at about 2:30 on a Saturday in the middle of a continuous lunch rush at work and after my doctor has closed up shop for the day. And because I had to work a double shift and it was one of those days where the customers never stop coming in, I had to wait until 9:30 at night to get myself to urgent care before they closed at 10. Of course the Cipro I have to take gives me a yeast infection so between the fee to go to urgent care and the 3 meds I'm now taking, I racked up $100 in fees in a very short period of time. Plus there's always the possibility of having to go see my GP after all because I'm developing a rash on my arm that wasn't there prior to taking the antibiotic. Blarg. Did I mention that the Cipro caused a yeast infection? Yeah.
Despite my annoyance at all of this I recognize how lucky I am to have health insurance (even tho I'm really pissed at my provider at the moment) and to have a manager who was kind enough to let me go to urgent care even tho I hadn't finished my side work. Despite the fact that the company I work for provides insurance coverage, almost none of the employees participate--mostly b/c they can't afford the premiums. Many of them have been sick with colds, flu and various infections during the past 6 weeks and b/c they lack insurance coverage and don't have the money to go to urgent care they get so sick that they end up in the ER. Or they continue to come to work and cough and hack all over the place (hello people--we serve food here--stop coughing on everything). So, for all those people out there who don't think we need universal health care coverage just remember: when you go out to eat, your server is probably too poor to afford a doctor's office visit plus the cost of a prescription and he/she is the last person to touch your food before you eat it. There are many reasons to support universal health care and I'm just offering up one more. Seriously, the time is now.
In an effort to make good on one of my new year's resolutions, I dragged my husband upstairs for some quality time and in return I got a UTI. And I come to the realization that, yes, it is a UTI at about 2:30 on a Saturday in the middle of a continuous lunch rush at work and after my doctor has closed up shop for the day. And because I had to work a double shift and it was one of those days where the customers never stop coming in, I had to wait until 9:30 at night to get myself to urgent care before they closed at 10. Of course the Cipro I have to take gives me a yeast infection so between the fee to go to urgent care and the 3 meds I'm now taking, I racked up $100 in fees in a very short period of time. Plus there's always the possibility of having to go see my GP after all because I'm developing a rash on my arm that wasn't there prior to taking the antibiotic. Blarg. Did I mention that the Cipro caused a yeast infection? Yeah.
Despite my annoyance at all of this I recognize how lucky I am to have health insurance (even tho I'm really pissed at my provider at the moment) and to have a manager who was kind enough to let me go to urgent care even tho I hadn't finished my side work. Despite the fact that the company I work for provides insurance coverage, almost none of the employees participate--mostly b/c they can't afford the premiums. Many of them have been sick with colds, flu and various infections during the past 6 weeks and b/c they lack insurance coverage and don't have the money to go to urgent care they get so sick that they end up in the ER. Or they continue to come to work and cough and hack all over the place (hello people--we serve food here--stop coughing on everything). So, for all those people out there who don't think we need universal health care coverage just remember: when you go out to eat, your server is probably too poor to afford a doctor's office visit plus the cost of a prescription and he/she is the last person to touch your food before you eat it. There are many reasons to support universal health care and I'm just offering up one more. Seriously, the time is now.
1.04.2008
1. What did you do in 2007 that you'd never done before?
Quit my job and just be a student for 4 whole months (thanks to my husband).
2. Did you keep your new year's resolutions, and will you make more for next year?
No and No. I continued to use my cell phone while driving and I did not have more sexy time with my husband. Boo. Although I did return to flossing regularly after my braces were removed.
This year's resolutions are to have more sexy time with my husband, limit cell phone use while driving and contact my elected officials at least once a month.
3. Did anyone close to you give birth?
Yes!
4. Did anyone close to you die?
Yes, see previous post.
5. What countries did you visit?
Sadly, none, but Michael promised me a trip to Ireland as a graduation present (which is still about 2 years away).
6. What would you like to have in 2008 that you lacked in 2007?
More self-discipline. Oh, and to know where my husband is going to be gainfully employed for the forseeable future and whether or not that job requires an out-of-state move. That's all I'm asking for...please?
7. What dates from 2007 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?
Dec. 27th--see previous post.
8. What was your biggest achievement of the year?
I spent the year as a student, employee (except for those 4 wonderful months) and spouse and managed to get good grades, bring home the bacos and hold my shit together (for the most part). Of course, all of this is thanks to my husband for making it possible.
9. What was your biggest failure?
Allowing myself to be bullied by my former boss and not quitting my job sooner. What was I thinking?
10. Did you suffer illness or injury?
Nope, thankfully.
11. What was the best thing you bought?
A new dog. Esme is a wonderful companion.
12. Whose behavior merited celebration?
My husband's. And my in-laws'.
13. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?
Too many to name.
14. Where did most of your money go?
Into various retirement accounts, utility bills, our mortgage, textbooks. Blarg. Not enough went to a nice vacation abroad.
15. What did you get really, really, really excited about?
Harry Potter!
16. What song will always remind you of 2007?
Too many damn Top 40 songs played at the restaurant where I work.
17. Compared to this time last year, are you:
a) happier or sadder? Both but mostly happier.
b) thinner or fatter? the same.
c) richer or poorer? poorer for sure.
18. What do you wish you'd done more of?
Having sexy time with my husband. See my friends more often. Read more books that weren't text books.
19. What do you wish you'd done less of?
Freaking out about work and my grades.
20. How will you be spending Christmas?
We spent X-mas at our house with my mom and grandmother. It was a little too much togetherness time but we had fun.
23. What was your favorite TV program?
House, of course. And the Simpson's and Family Guy.
25. What was the best book you read?
The Kite Runner.
26. What was your greatest musical discovery?
I didn't have one. Sad.
27. What did you want and get?
Accepted to nursing school (although technically I didn't find that out until 2008).
28. What did you want and not get?
A cool job for my husband located in a cool city.
29. What was your favorite film of this year?
The Simpson's Movie.
30. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?
30, and I didn't do much. I wasn't up to celebrating at the time but maybe I'll do something more exciting for 31.
31. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?
A cool job for my husband in a cool city and spending more time with my girlfriends.
32. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2007?
Jeans and ________. As a student I don't have to dress up.
33. What kept you sane?
You know who you are.
34. Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?
Daniel Craig after seeing "Casino Royale." Rrrowwwrrrrrr.
38. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2007.
Don't waste time on things like anger and worrying. Take action when and if you can and if you can't, find something more useful upon which to focus.
39. Quote a song lyric that sums up your year.
Beans, beans
They're good for your heart....
Quit my job and just be a student for 4 whole months (thanks to my husband).
2. Did you keep your new year's resolutions, and will you make more for next year?
No and No. I continued to use my cell phone while driving and I did not have more sexy time with my husband. Boo. Although I did return to flossing regularly after my braces were removed.
This year's resolutions are to have more sexy time with my husband, limit cell phone use while driving and contact my elected officials at least once a month.
3. Did anyone close to you give birth?
Yes!
4. Did anyone close to you die?
Yes, see previous post.
5. What countries did you visit?
Sadly, none, but Michael promised me a trip to Ireland as a graduation present (which is still about 2 years away).
6. What would you like to have in 2008 that you lacked in 2007?
More self-discipline. Oh, and to know where my husband is going to be gainfully employed for the forseeable future and whether or not that job requires an out-of-state move. That's all I'm asking for...please?
7. What dates from 2007 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?
Dec. 27th--see previous post.
8. What was your biggest achievement of the year?
I spent the year as a student, employee (except for those 4 wonderful months) and spouse and managed to get good grades, bring home the bacos and hold my shit together (for the most part). Of course, all of this is thanks to my husband for making it possible.
9. What was your biggest failure?
Allowing myself to be bullied by my former boss and not quitting my job sooner. What was I thinking?
10. Did you suffer illness or injury?
Nope, thankfully.
11. What was the best thing you bought?
A new dog. Esme is a wonderful companion.
12. Whose behavior merited celebration?
My husband's. And my in-laws'.
13. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?
Too many to name.
14. Where did most of your money go?
Into various retirement accounts, utility bills, our mortgage, textbooks. Blarg. Not enough went to a nice vacation abroad.
15. What did you get really, really, really excited about?
Harry Potter!
16. What song will always remind you of 2007?
Too many damn Top 40 songs played at the restaurant where I work.
17. Compared to this time last year, are you:
a) happier or sadder? Both but mostly happier.
b) thinner or fatter? the same.
c) richer or poorer? poorer for sure.
18. What do you wish you'd done more of?
Having sexy time with my husband. See my friends more often. Read more books that weren't text books.
19. What do you wish you'd done less of?
Freaking out about work and my grades.
20. How will you be spending Christmas?
We spent X-mas at our house with my mom and grandmother. It was a little too much togetherness time but we had fun.
23. What was your favorite TV program?
House, of course. And the Simpson's and Family Guy.
25. What was the best book you read?
The Kite Runner.
26. What was your greatest musical discovery?
I didn't have one. Sad.
27. What did you want and get?
Accepted to nursing school (although technically I didn't find that out until 2008).
28. What did you want and not get?
A cool job for my husband located in a cool city.
29. What was your favorite film of this year?
The Simpson's Movie.
30. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?
30, and I didn't do much. I wasn't up to celebrating at the time but maybe I'll do something more exciting for 31.
31. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?
A cool job for my husband in a cool city and spending more time with my girlfriends.
32. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2007?
Jeans and ________. As a student I don't have to dress up.
33. What kept you sane?
You know who you are.
34. Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?
Daniel Craig after seeing "Casino Royale." Rrrowwwrrrrrr.
38. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2007.
Don't waste time on things like anger and worrying. Take action when and if you can and if you can't, find something more useful upon which to focus.
39. Quote a song lyric that sums up your year.
Beans, beans
They're good for your heart....
1.03.2008
For better or for worse...
And in this case it was for worse. But before I get to that I really must acknowledge my husband for the wonderful human being that he is, for being my pillar of strength, for letting me cry all over him and for comforting not just me, but my mom and grandma.
A week ago today we found out that my Aunt Mauna was killed in a car accident in Champaign, IL where she lives. We didn't find out until Friday that the guy who caused the accident was driving drunk and that he had 2 previous DUIs and that he was driving on a revoked license. And that he fled on foot and hid in a drainage ditch and the police had to send a dog in to drag him out. And now that man is in jail and the charges against him come with a 35-year prison sentence.
The funeral service was so nice...so personal...so happy and sad at the same time. We recounted funny memories and we got to see the sides of my aunt's life we didn't know much about as evidenced by the very long line of friends, co-workers, neighbors (and a couple ex-husbands) who arrived at the funeral home to pay their respects. And I got a fit of the inappropriate giggles when my cousin sang a song that was a little out of her range and it reminded me of when my Aunt June sang so horribly at my Aunt Susie's wedding.
Anyway, the whole last week has been spent in shock and in mourning. I slept all day on Tuesday and am just now starting to feel somewhat normal. But it's hard to carry on with normal activities when the loss of a loved one is always in the back of your mind. But I need to, we all need to, because we're still here on this earth. And for better or for worse (hopefully more for the better) we will keep on going...all the while missing our loved ones and every fond memory a celebration of our crazy lives.
And in this case it was for worse. But before I get to that I really must acknowledge my husband for the wonderful human being that he is, for being my pillar of strength, for letting me cry all over him and for comforting not just me, but my mom and grandma.
A week ago today we found out that my Aunt Mauna was killed in a car accident in Champaign, IL where she lives. We didn't find out until Friday that the guy who caused the accident was driving drunk and that he had 2 previous DUIs and that he was driving on a revoked license. And that he fled on foot and hid in a drainage ditch and the police had to send a dog in to drag him out. And now that man is in jail and the charges against him come with a 35-year prison sentence.
The funeral service was so nice...so personal...so happy and sad at the same time. We recounted funny memories and we got to see the sides of my aunt's life we didn't know much about as evidenced by the very long line of friends, co-workers, neighbors (and a couple ex-husbands) who arrived at the funeral home to pay their respects. And I got a fit of the inappropriate giggles when my cousin sang a song that was a little out of her range and it reminded me of when my Aunt June sang so horribly at my Aunt Susie's wedding.
Anyway, the whole last week has been spent in shock and in mourning. I slept all day on Tuesday and am just now starting to feel somewhat normal. But it's hard to carry on with normal activities when the loss of a loved one is always in the back of your mind. But I need to, we all need to, because we're still here on this earth. And for better or for worse (hopefully more for the better) we will keep on going...all the while missing our loved ones and every fond memory a celebration of our crazy lives.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)