Tuesday, June 27, 2006

More About the Weekend

My weekend at home couldn't have gone any better . . unless there were a few more days in a weekend.

Hope this post doesn't read too much like a diary, "Yesterday I . . Today I . . "

I flew in Friday morning, after nearly missing both flights. Thank God I didn't wear heels (you know I thought about it) because I was running through the airport to catch my connecting flight!

I had a nice lunch with my family and picked out my birthday present (a black opal necklace). My birthday isn't for six weeks, but what can I say, I like to be prepared. I was crushed to learn that the speed boat needed to be fixed, because I had my heart set on slaloming! I ended up not even getting in the water at Grandma's lake, but we had such a delicious meal. I was so blessed that Mom & Grandma took the time to make baked beans, potato salad, and grill burgers . . all because I was back for a visit! Both grandmothers were there, as well as my bro and his family and Cousin Joy. We took a sunset ride on the pontoon, which was the perfect end to a fun night.

Saturday, after sleeping until 11 (what a waste!), I drove into town for lunch with Shae. I hadn't seen her since before my stint in San Diego. I visited Joy at the salon for a blowout and then headed over to Shae's place to get ready and download some great songs (that only she & I would appreciate). I miss hanging out with her!

The wedding, like I said, was beautiful. It was at the botanical gardens, and the sun came out just long enough for the ceremony and pictures. I saw so many people that I love and was able to catch up (not that I've been gone too long, but many I hadn't seen since before SD).

Best Friend and I stayed up til 3 as she gave me full 'deets' on her boy situation and I saw her new place. (I met the guy, too, and he's so sweet . . Can't wait to see what happens).

Sunday, I had lunch with my family after church, visited the kids (Ryan, Evan, & Caroline), and spent the day at the lake with BF. In the evening, I hung out with AMC. Sadly, their little boy seems to already have forgotten me . . this is exactly what I was afraid of.

It's funny . . going back was great, but I'm not homesick. I know that D.C. is where I'm supposed to be right now and everything is going so great for me here.

I hope I can make it home for a Husker game this fall, because 6 months 'til Christmas does seem like a long time!

Monday, June 26, 2006

Home to Celebrate

I went home this weekend for a beautiful wedding between two people who couldn't be more perfect for each other. For me, it wasn't just a celebration of two great people becoming one . . it was a celebration of God's goodness . . and a celebration of healed hearts. It was proof that God loves to bless His children when they wait on Him . . and proof that those He sets free are free indeed!

Congratulations to one of the most beautiful, precious people I know. I love our memories and I'm happy to say that I love you, too.

Monday, June 19, 2006

The Moving Date Draws Near

Be patient with me . . I'm working on my template. Well actually, Stacey is. She created a masthead that I really like, so stay tuned.

Laura's First _____
Yesterday was quite exciting for me as I got to pick out my first ever brand new piece of furniture (not counting the armoire I got for Christmas). Actually, I bought two pieces: a dresser/chest of drawers and a bedside table. I did always say I didn't want to match furniture pieces, because I want my rooms to have character . . but I take that back, because I couldn't not get the matching bedside table, could I?! It didn't take me long to find it. Rochester, in keeping with his promise before I moved out here, looked up furniture stores and came along for company. As we were walking into the first place, I glanced in the window and noticed a chair . . for $10,000! Needless to say, we didn't make it through the front door. But, the second place is where I found my pieces. They were actually the only thing I liked in the entire place, but I think they're beautiful. The salesman made me feel like I was getting a good deal on them and I didn't care to haggle with him, so I went ahead and took them.

After speaking with my soon-to-be roommate, I decided to just buy a used twin bed instead of purchasing a new one. I've seen the bed. I don't like it. I like IKEA, but I don't like the bed. I would probably buy a lot of stuff from IKEA, but not my bed. I also don't want to spend nearly $400 for a new twin bed, which I've decided I need in order to maximize the spaciousness of the room.

Awkwaaard
Ok, totally awkward moment. CousinJ went into my closet for something of his (which, by the way, isn't the tidiest place . . there's a shirt on the floor, my shoes aren't in their boxes, my clothes are in haphazard piles on the shelves, but it's mine while I'm here and didn't expect someone to go in) and told me it needs to be immaculate when my other cousins come for a visit in a week . . It must look as though I'm not here. I understand and would've done it anyway, of course, but am just slightly embarrassed that he had to tell me . . and that he saw my stuff a mess. Yikes! Also, he told me he'd like me to help offer to help K with groceries, which is something I always intended to do, of course . . but if you'll remember K insisted that I not help. Is it awful of me for never coming back and insisting upon helping? I'm glad J got it off his chest. I just wanted to be the perfect houseguest. I keep the bathroom super clean and even keep my room nice, making my bed, keeping the dresser cleared off. I help with dishes every night and always offer to help K cook or watch the baby. I'm just disappointed that I've missed something. *sigh* It's good that I'll be moving out soon . . in two weeks only. It's time. And now I feel so bothered by this that I'm going to bed. But first, does anyone have any ideas of what I can do for a farewell thank-you gift when I do move out?

Sunday, June 18, 2006

Feedback

Be honest about my new template. I've been wanting a change forever. I'm not necessarily into the orange, but I don't have a lot of options. Do you think it's easy/easier to read?

Saturday, June 17, 2006

A Dress, a Party, and a Baseball Game

The Dress
I did find a dress at Bloomingdale's. It's more than I've ever spent on a dress, but it was on sale quite a bit, and I love it. It took trying on about 8 dresses to find the right one. I'm not sure that I'll wear it to my friend's wedding next week, which was basically the excuse for getting it, but I know I'll find something to wear it to soon. It's really hard to describe. All I can say is that it's a BCBG olive green dress that falls just above my knee. (Not that the fact that it's BCBG helps you visualize it - I'm just excited to have found such a great dress on sale). Some of it is crocheted and it has subtle sequins and beading in some places. It probably sounds fancy, but it's not really. It looks much better on than on the rack, so I'll post a picture once I wear it.

Exclusive Thursday Night
Thursday night (which is apparently the new Friday), I didn't really feel like going anywhere, but Vanderbilt had invited Leigh and I to an "exclusive" party. It sounded pretty cool, so I agreed to pick up Leigh at the metro and go to Georgetown. Vanderbilt had our names put on the list so that we could get in, because apparently it was capped at 100 people (there were free drinks). Especially since I had driven, I wanted to make sure to keep the drinking at a bare minimum. It was already 10 o'clock and my "bedtime" is at 11, so I knew I didn't want to stay too long. Well . . not staying too long turned into about 2 in the morning! I was having a great time with Vanderbilt and his friends, meeting people, dancing, etc. It was at a bar called Smith Point, which I'd heard was where all the preppie rich kids hung out. The rumor was true. I'd never seen so many thousand dollar bags, designer threads and perfect-looking people in one place in my entire life. It's sad to admit, but had I not been wearing some of my designer things, I may have felt out of place. However, like Leigh said, you can look just as nice in something sophisticated and classic as you can in overpriced, trendy pieces.

I was reluctant when Vanderbilt suggested we make an appearance at the Polo party (we have a co-worker who played in a big Polo event) at a place called Blue Gin. It was late, and I needed to head home, but I'm so glad I went, because I met Derek Jeter!! Leigh and I spotted him in the corner and made our way over to introduce ourselves. He was very nice and polite and is even better looking in person. I would've pulled out my camera, but I was getting an unfriendly vibe from one of the girls he was with.

After leaving, I could not, for the life of me, remember where my car was! It was so late that I decided to forget about it and just catch a cab home. Of course, I was so embarrassed the next morning for CousinJ and K to see that I was home, but my car wasn't. It looks bad and I've not had any time to explain. Friday morning, Vanderbilt was nice enough to give me a ride to find it, and I had to pay $30 to get it out of the parking garage. I didn't feel too bad, since the whole night hadn't cost me anything.

BBQ and a Ballgame
Friday night, I wasn't up to Happy Hour - had no desire to drink or be around it. Rochester came into my office, and after beating around the bush forever, asked me if I wanted to grab a bite to eat. He let me choose, and I picked BBQ at Red Hot and Blue. We ended up renting a movie, too, which made for a very nice, low-key night. Again, he paid for everything, even though I certainly tried to pay.

Today, he & I went to the Yankees/Nationals game. I'm a Yankees fan, so I was thrilled that he asked me to come along. He's a fan as well but hadn't seen them play before. Sadly, they lost, but we had great seats and it was still a lot of fun! The humidity was killer! Right away, I pointed out a lady whose pants were completely wet in the back . . . Little did I know, that would be me in a couple hours -ew!

After getting back to his place, I realized that I had nothing to do tonight. At first, I hoped he'd suggest evening plans, but I didn't ask, and when I got into my car, I realized that I wanted nothing more than to go home. Even though the game was a blast, I was so exhausted from the last two nights that I was having a hard time keeping my eyes open! It was so frustrating! It took everything in me to stay awake on the car ride back to Rochester's.

So tonight, I did a little laundry, heated up a pizza, ran to CVS and went to Safeway to use my coupon for a free pint of Haagen-Dazs cookies and cream! It was just what I needed.

Wednesday, June 14, 2006

Grab the Tissue and the New Girl and Let's Go Shopping

At first, I wasn't sure which way the sore throat was gonna go . . . flu or cold. Fortunately, it's taken the latter route, which my body greatly appreciates, as does my employer I'm sure, because I don't have to miss any work. I did leave work early on Monday, but felt well enough to come in the next day, despite the raw throat. Now, my throat is feeling almost 100%; I'm just super congested and have to subject my poor nose to the brutal restroom toilet paper. I've left my desk at least 5 times to replenish my supply.

New news about New Girl: I like her. This doesn't come as much of a shock to me, because there have been several times that I've initially disliked someone and then they end up growing on me (ie: Delaware, who did turn out to be pretty flaky, but I liked her nonetheless). Now . . just because I like her doesn't mean she's not loud. It doesn't mean it hasn't affected the nice little sanctuary Leigh and I had created back here. Like K said, "Two's company; three's a crowd." She may annoy me less now that this week has been a lot less stressful. Or maybe because I found out that she likes to shop. I'm not sure, but I'm happy about it. I hate being annoyed.

Tonight, I plan to venture to my new favorite department store. It was once Nordstrom, but now that I've had time to really discover all that Bloomingdale's is, it's definitely taken 1st place. However, this is only due in part to the fact that there is no Von Maur here. Von Maur may not have the selection that Bloomingdale's does, but it does have the quality and the sales are superb. I'm on a mission for a dress still, but I'll settle for a cute cream top. Wish me luck.

Hey . . maybe I'll ask New Girl to come.

Monday, June 12, 2006

Weekend Update

My weekend could not have been better. Except for the fact that it has ended with the worst sore throat EVER. I don't want to speak or swallow or anything. I just want to drink fruit smoothies with immuni-boosts all day. Fortunately, I don't feel sick anywhere else. So much for that amazing immune system I have.

Friday night, I went to Happy Hour with the work gang. We had something really exciting happen with one of our accounts, so everyone was ready to let loose and have some fun after so much hard work. There were probably at least 25 of us there, singing karaoke, dancing, and having a blast! The DJs totally gave me a hard time for going up so many times, but hey, no one else was signing up. I never sing alone, either. Leigh and I started it off with some Salt n Pepa and later sang "Material Girl". Sharpdog and I sang "Time of My Life" and "Bust a Move", too. It ended up being an incredibly late night.

Saturday morning, I volunteered with K at the USO stuffing care packages for the troops. Last time K went, she met Mr. President!! No fair! It was a lot of fun and felt so good to be helping out.

I ended up taking 3 naps that day which helped me catch up. CousinJ & K went on a date while I watched Walker. They got home pretty early - in time for me to go out with girls from work. It wasn't something I was excited about, but I wanted to make an effort to get to know people better. The frustrating part was paying a $10 cover and only staying for an hour. I was famished, so rather than getting a drink, I ordered some yummy calamari. A co-worker gave me a ride home, which was so nice, because I would've had to take a cab.

Sunday morning, I slept in, laid out and took a long, long walk to Tenleytown to shop. I was on a mission, but didn't find what I was looking for. Instead I found a really cute Kenneth Cole black leather watch on sale! I love it! I grabbed a smoothie and took the long way home, which made for about a 4-5 mile walk.

I wanted to go to church, but had been invited for dinner by a co-worker. Because we have the same title at work, she invited Leigh, New Girl, and I over. She made green beans, 3-cheese tortellini, and crescent rolls! We had cheesecake for dessert. It was so nice getting to know everyone better. We spent a good amount of time discussing how much we love our jobs. There were a lot of laughs, too.

Definitely a great weekend. :)

Sunday, June 11, 2006

Two Questions

Two questions I've been wondering about:

1. Why does no one call you when you move away?

Do they think you're busy and won't asnwer anyway or return phone calls. Do they figure since you can't hang out what's the point of calling? What if I was lonely and completely miserable here in this new place? I'm not, but what if I was?

2. Why does blogging have such a bad reputation?

I have heard so much negative talk about blogging since I've been here. You would think it was the equivalent to having a big "L" painted on your forehead. I make no comments when others bring the topic up. Not so much because I'm embarrassed, (because part of me would love to defend it) . . but I don't want anyone asking what mine is or ever trying to find it. Blogging, for me, just started as a creative outlet . . then, it turned into a way to say things I wanted to say, but may not have brought up in conversation. Now, it serves as a great way to let people at home know what's going on with me, although, to be honest, I sometimes forget anyone I know reads and am probably too open. I never thought that I'd "meet" other great people around the country, but that, too, has been so much fun. I've learned a lot from these 'strangers' that I feel I know pretty well. Pink introduced me to her sweet cousin out in San Diego which helped me plug into a church and meet people. And I'm about to meet Miss Independent for lunch this week. So I don't care what anyone says about blogging. I think it's awesome :)

Friday, June 09, 2006

Office Bits

This morning as J and I were walking into work, he looks at his Blackberry and hands it to me. The email from a co-worker read, "J - My old man is in town and has invited me to go to Camp David with him, so I'm going to have to take the day off." (Um, yeah. . I'd be taking the day off, too.) This guy's dad is the Prime Minister of _____. A while ago, upon learning this, J asked him why he never said anything. He said he wanted to get ahead not because of who he was but what he could do.

The new girl in the office is driving Officemate Leigh and I crazy! She is sooo loud and bubbly. She even says things that are pretty inappropriate, especially for knowing us less than a week.
"You're a b****, huh?" to Leigh after hearing a story which did not portray her that way.
She asks tons of questions and . . frankly, I'm surprised she's been hired. She doesn't act very bright . . but perhaps she is. Leigh and I just wish she wouldn't talk so much or at least turn the volume down . . We can't concentrate on our work. We both plug in our headphones all day and listen to music. I hope that New Girl isn't picking up on our irritation, because I don't want to hurt her feelings.

Thursday, June 08, 2006

Give a Little, Get a Lot

Rochester thinks I'm nuts. I told him that I found a place to live, but when I told him about the "living situation", he said I was crazy! I was a little irritated with him, to be honest, because it's all about what I am comfortable with . . am I right? I knew I wasn't going to find an awesome place in my price range without giving up something. So I gave up having my own room. You all think I'm nuts, too, don't you?

Maybe I'm such an optimist because I had such a great experience in college sharing a room with a friend. I don't think it's something I could do with just anyone, but I have a good feeling about this girl. So before you shake your head in disbelief, let me give you full deets.

1. It's in Rosslyn (which is in Arlington, which is where I wanted to live)
- Rosslyn is just across the bridge from D.C. (and it's not even a very big bridge :)
2. It's safe. It has a doorman who apparently takes his job very seriously.
3. It has underground parking. It does cost $85, but that's not bad compared to other places.
4. It's less than 2 blocks from the Rosslyn metro which makes for a 5 minute ride to work (2 stops away) and no sitting in traffic, paying for gas, or paying $100 more for parking at work.
5. Since it is just across the bridge . . it's only a 10 minute walk to Georgetown. And it's close to restaurants and a grocery store in Rosslyn.
6. The apartment itself is very nice and spacious. The foyer is huge as well as the living room.
7. The bedroom isn't as big as the one I shared in college, but it's a nice size. PLUS, and most importantly, I have my own big walk-in closet. THAT, to me, is more important than having my own room. It's all about priorities.
8. The view from the living room (on 9th floor) is great. You can see the National Cathedral (which is near where I now live).
9. The girls are very nice. Two of them go to Frontline. (There are 3 besides me.) The girl I'll share a room with is very sweet. . probably not someone I'd normally hang out with, but I know we'll get along great.
10. Utilities are included in my rent . . and the price is fabulous.
11. It has an exercise room.
12. There is a laundry room on my floor, as well as a garbage chute and a mail chute.
13. There is a rooftop deck with lots of cute tables and chairs. You can see ALLL of D.C. It's amazing. . . . The Capitol, Washington Monument, Jefferson and Lincoln Memorials, the Cathedral, the Potomac, Georgetown, etc, etc.
14. We discussed our lifestyles and what is important to us in a living situation and it seems we're all on the same page.
15. They said I can help decorate!!
16. There is nice massive lobby on 1st floor and they constantly play nice elevator music. I mean, that's kind of a dumb #16, but the music really does give it a nice ambience.
17. Wireless internet.

You get the idea.

I move in the beginning of July. I'll be kinda sad to leave CousinJ and K's, but I'll only be 4 miles away. I'm excited to have a place and get settled.

On another note, work is going really well. However, it's been absolutely crazy. I'm definitely working over 50 hours/wk. I've been swamped. Basically what is supposed to be 50% of my job has been taking up 100%. Starting tomorrow I'm going to have to start thinking about the other 50, because I'm covering for the lady that's going out of town. This means, I have to know what's going on in order to present this information in meetings! Lord, help! I'm so glad tomorrow's Friday.

Monday, June 05, 2006

A Rock Star

We have a weekly meeting at work. "We" as in "me and others that share my title". It's a meeting to go over what specifically we're working on and at what capacity we're at. As in, can we take on any more work? Today, I brought my list of what I'd been working on and my "manager" let me know that my responsibilities would be shifting. She begun by telling me that I would be working on this 50% and that 50% and began to explain in more detail what all that would include. As she kept talking, she mentioned I'd be taking this responsibility from so-and-so and spending 45% of my time on what's-his-name's account. It all sounded great to me . . just one problem. These numbers weren't adding up. Fortunately, she realized her mistake . . giving me a workload of 150%! I was even happier things had been cleared up later on in the day when I had taken in enough information to make my head explode. I worked until 7 p.m. and could've kept on working had CousinJ not wanted to leave. I do feel overwhelmed . . there is so much to do and keep straight . . so much responsibility . . but as long as I prioritize and organize, I should be fine. . . . But I want to be more than fine . . I want to be a rock star.

Sunday, June 04, 2006

Frontline

Went to church here. It was their Sunday night young adults/career age group. It was AWESOME. Worship totally ministered to my heart and since it was dark in there, I was able to really feel alone with God amidst hundreds of people. I enjoyed the message and afterward, went to a small meeting to see how I could get plugged into a small group. I'm so encouraged and excited already. Tonight was the perfect way to start the week.

Getting Personal

My officemate, Leigh, and I have really hit it off. We gab throughout the day, take lunch together, and yesterday, went on a shopping excursion. It was fabulous!

I drove and picked her up at the nearest metro stop, and we drove about 45 minutes south to Potomac Mills. I have to say, they have some pretty great outlets/stores. I bought things at Off 5th (the Saks outlet), GAP, Banana, Ann Taylor, Nordstrom Rack, and Nine West. Most things were priced really well, though some didn't seem to be disounted much.

My most exciting purchase (this is hard, because I love it all) is probably the Theory blazer I got at Off 5th. The sad part is that it's wool, so I can't wear it for awhile, but I couldn't not get it! Second favorite is probably the brown dress I found at GAP. All I have to say is that I'm totally set for work clothes I think. The plan going forward is that any money I make baby-sitting (K said she'd spread the word to those in her book club and Walker's play group) will be my fun/shopping money.

Last night, Rochester said we could do whatever I wanted to do. Ellie had organized a bar-hopping outing, but I didn't feel like going. Sooo, we went to see "The Break-up" (loved it and Rochester laughed the whole time, too - not a chick flick). First, we went to dinner at Rock Bottom and Rochester paid for everything. Then, he paid for the movie, too. It's so odd for me to have someone that I'm not dating pick up the tab for everything. I feel so bad. I mean, last night easily cost him $70, and this isn't the first time he's paid. K says that some guys are just that way and don't let girl friends pay. But, geez, that gets expensive!

After the movie, since I'd offered to drive, I dropped him off, but I said, "You're not gonna go do something fun now, are you?" That's totally me - not wanting to miss out on anything. Driving away, I felt lonely. I mean, it was midnight and not too early to go to bed, but I wasn't satisfied. It really hit me that this - this isn't going to be enough for me. I've been so busy and entertained so far that I haven't had time to miss close friendships. I've been letting my 'cup' get full by having good work experiences, shopping, and getting affirmation from Rochester and other new friends.

Driving home, I just wanted to spend time with the Lord. I've been reading a book called "Drawing Near" (one of my absolute favorites now!) which says that whatever you feed on is what you'll have an appetite for. I've been learning how true that is. It kinda reminds me of the time that I fasted desserts for over a month. I ended up not even remembering how great the desserts tasted and having no desire to eat them.

It's easy to get distracted by life and to be satisfied with people, your job, and/or fun times. As great as those things can be, they can't even compare to having a personal, intimate relationship with the Lord. Being in His presence is better and more satisfying than numerous nights out with friends or good experiences at work or finding great deals at the mall. It's scary to realize that I have no one here that is on the same page. When I look ahead, all I see is fun nights out, but no meaningful friendships with others that love Him, too, and that find their purpose in Him and not in their job or their friends or their social life. I can't depend on those things for my happiness. They may be great and fun for a time, but they'll never really satisfy me. I'll have to really make an effort to find a church I enjoy and trust that God will supply friends.

After coming home, feeling lonely, dissatisfied and even slightly anxious, I spent time just meditating on the Lord, not even talking to him much . . just focusing on who He is. That is why I love Him. Not because He can do things for me or answer my prayers . . because I've gotten to know Him and His character, and I've seen that He's everything He claims to be . . and that relationship fills my cup to overflowing.

Friday, June 02, 2006

Oh Baby!

Tonight, Walks and I are hangin' out! Here are a few pics of us bonding:














Here he is giving me a kiss, or rather biting my face, like he does when he gets excited. Funny, I feel the same way about him.













The cutest baby in the District was also the cutest baby on the island.


































Maybe we'll go for a walk in the Frog stroller tonight or hang out in the backyard or watch TV. . The possibilities are endless. . . :)

Thursday, June 01, 2006

Thoughts on Thursday

Today at work, we had Happy Hour, which means chips and salsa and beer and pop in one of the conference rooms. It's a great time to mingle and get to know people. I was able to meet a couple of girls and chat with them for awhile. One especially was so sweet!

Rochester walked into the room with a pink shirt on . . whoa! . . rockin' the pink shirt! Not many attempt it and few can pull it off, but I think he's definitely manly enough to do it. (Speaking of pink shirts, did anyone watch "Deal or No Deal" last night? There was a guy in a hot pink shirt and he was a riot! I'm sure that show is normally not fun to watch, but it was hilarious last night.)

Now I'm back at my desk waiting for CousinJ to leave which could be awhile. Last night, we were here until 7 o'clock. Typically people leave around 5:30 on average, but there's no punching in and out here . . just get your stuff done. A lot of people in the office are on the company softball team, so they were all changed into their gear to go play. Wish I was going, but I'm looking at another house tonight. It'll be nice to have something to compare the other place to.

This weekend is pretty up in the air. I've offered to baby-sit tomorrow night. I figured that it's much easier to stay home on a 'work night' than a Saturday. Plus, if I do something Saturday I'll be able to wear something other than work clothes! Woo-hoo!

Ellie sent out an Evite for "Cruisin' for Booze 'n Boyz", but gee, somehow that just doesn't appeal to me. Rochester and I had lunch yesterday and he said we could do something else if I didn't want to do that. I suggested going to see "The Break-up". Much to my surprise, he said he didn't want to! I was like, Hello!, it stars Vince Vaughn, who is only one of the funniest actors out there! He thinks it's a chick flick. Really, I think he wants to go, but he's just being difficult. I mean, I got him to watch "Swiss Family Robinson" and "Parent Trap" (the original) with me in San Diego. At any rate, I hope he goes, because he's my only friend, so I have no one else to go with. Maybe I'll ask his roommate/friend. There is a music festival during the day on Saturday which also sounds cool. Whatever happens, I'm sure I'll find something to do.

Remember the guy I met/hung out with at Taste of the South? He's weird - that's what I've determined. First of all, I had a lot of fun with him, but still didn't think I'd care to hang out again. He texted me the next day with a very nice message, but I responded very short yet nice. He texted nothing.

Two days later, he texted me again referring to something from that night to which I again gave a short, polite reply. He texted back nothing. I was annoyed at that point. I thought, "Ok, guy, do you want to talk to me or what? Are you trying to test the waters, because this is a really safe, chicken way to do it."

While I was in Kiawah, we had an actual conversation over text - very short but nice. He ended it with "See you later" and my first thought was, "No, I probably won't see you later. First of all, I don't really care if I see you later, but more importantly you haven't asked to see me later."

Then, last night, he texted me at 12:30 am saying he'd just heard this song we sang that night. I didn't reply. Truly, this guy seemed very mature and very nice and polite when I met him, plus he's older so I assumed he's not into games, but I cannot appreciate a late night text on a weeknight!! If he wants to talk to me, he should call. I don't flirt over text unless I know someone pretty well already. If he ever texts me again, I think I'm going to be very upfront and ask him what the heck he's doing or tell him to leave me alone. Grr.