I've been reading Stephanie Klein's blog for three years now, and I just finished her first book, "Straight Up and Dirty". Although a little too dirty for my taste in some parts, I absolutely love the way she writes - which is why I'm so excited to purchase her new book, "Moose" and attend her reading in D.C. on June 2nd. Below, I've included a video advertising the new memoir about her childhood experiences at fat camp. By embedding this video, I now have a chance to win an Hermes scarf! Stephanie is the queen of maximizing the versatility of an Hermes scarf. :)
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Monday, May 19, 2008
remembering florida
This is Triston, one my favorite children in the entire world. Ok, he might actually be my favorite.
The things that come out of his mouth! I especially liked the time he said "Wora! That's a beautiful dress!" Why thank you!
The things that come out of his mouth! I especially liked the time he said "Wora! That's a beautiful dress!" Why thank you!
I dare you to find a cuter baby than this. Look at that hair and those eyes! 
Yes, I met the Monsters - probably my favorite characters to meet.
This stuff isn't just for the kids.
I miss them!glorious time off
I'm already savoring this time off from the working world. And I'm making sure I don't waste a second of it.
Although I can't quite remember what I did last Friday, aside from going to the gym and wishing I could go to work (my last day was Thursday), today has been especially productive. I've once again spent time at the gym, filled out all my paperwork for the new job, sent some important emails, and best off all . . golfed. The forecast is rain for the next three days, so I wanted to take advantage of the 70 degree temps and sunshine. I'm not sure I've ever golfed alone, but it was even more wonderful than I imagined. I was able to focus much more on my form without being distracted by anyone around me. I played well, and hopefully I can make it back to the course over these next two weeks.
My last day at work was strange, I suppose, and the hardest part was turning in my laptop and Blackberry. HR came by my desk at 5:30pm, and I reluctantly agreed to shut down my computer. Holding on 'til the very last second. I had a nice lunch with some of my favorite co-workers and stopped by a few desks to say goodbye. I'm sad when I think that my time there has come to an end, but I know that I'll quickly adapt to my new environment. I celebrated my last day by finally indulging in crepes from the first floor cafe - that's right, plural! I enjoyed a ham, egg, and cheese crepe for breakfast and went back for a chocolate banana crepe after lunch. It's a good thing I didn't start indulging sooner, because I'm afraid it would've become a daily ritual!
I'm off to have some dinner and see that "Vegas" movie with a friend . .
Although I can't quite remember what I did last Friday, aside from going to the gym and wishing I could go to work (my last day was Thursday), today has been especially productive. I've once again spent time at the gym, filled out all my paperwork for the new job, sent some important emails, and best off all . . golfed. The forecast is rain for the next three days, so I wanted to take advantage of the 70 degree temps and sunshine. I'm not sure I've ever golfed alone, but it was even more wonderful than I imagined. I was able to focus much more on my form without being distracted by anyone around me. I played well, and hopefully I can make it back to the course over these next two weeks.
My last day at work was strange, I suppose, and the hardest part was turning in my laptop and Blackberry. HR came by my desk at 5:30pm, and I reluctantly agreed to shut down my computer. Holding on 'til the very last second. I had a nice lunch with some of my favorite co-workers and stopped by a few desks to say goodbye. I'm sad when I think that my time there has come to an end, but I know that I'll quickly adapt to my new environment. I celebrated my last day by finally indulging in crepes from the first floor cafe - that's right, plural! I enjoyed a ham, egg, and cheese crepe for breakfast and went back for a chocolate banana crepe after lunch. It's a good thing I didn't start indulging sooner, because I'm afraid it would've become a daily ritual!
I'm off to have some dinner and see that "Vegas" movie with a friend . .
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
in love
It's no secret that it doesn't take much to get me excited. And now I give you another case in point: Harris Teeter.
I am in love with Mr. Teeter. Why, you ask?
It is here that I find perfectly stocked rows, amazingly fresh produce (including monster Fuji apples), the loveliest wine collection I've ever laid eyes on, and oh the selection. In the past, it's the mall that has been my weakness. Now, it's Harris Teeter. So many exciting things to try - sweet potato chips, tomato basil ramen noodles, caramelized onion pasta sauce, Grapples (looks like an apple, tastes like a grape!) even pints from my favorite local ice cream shop, Gifford's. I find myself throwing everything in my cart, believing I'm going to go home and cook extravagant meals (well, compared my usual pb&j). It's only when I get up to the checkout line that I realize I'm still the same lazy girl in the kitchen. But Harris Teeter makes me wish I wasn't!
And that is why I am in love. Harris Teeter makes me want to be a better person.
:)
I am in love with Mr. Teeter. Why, you ask?
It is here that I find perfectly stocked rows, amazingly fresh produce (including monster Fuji apples), the loveliest wine collection I've ever laid eyes on, and oh the selection. In the past, it's the mall that has been my weakness. Now, it's Harris Teeter. So many exciting things to try - sweet potato chips, tomato basil ramen noodles, caramelized onion pasta sauce, Grapples (looks like an apple, tastes like a grape!) even pints from my favorite local ice cream shop, Gifford's. I find myself throwing everything in my cart, believing I'm going to go home and cook extravagant meals (well, compared my usual pb&j). It's only when I get up to the checkout line that I realize I'm still the same lazy girl in the kitchen. But Harris Teeter makes me wish I wasn't!
And that is why I am in love. Harris Teeter makes me want to be a better person.
:)
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
It's Official!
I have a new job!, official as of five hours ago. And boy does God have a sense of humor, because my last day at my current job? It's Thursday. He's made the phrase "not a moment too soon" a familiar part of my vocabulary. And before you go thinking I was dumb enough to quit one job before landing another, just stop. I won't get into the details, but that was certainly not the case.
Because my new job requires mucho paperwork and security clearance, I will have a solid two weeks with nothing to do. If you could please hold me accountable to hitting the gym every day, it would be greatly appreciated! Also, my room needs cleaning and organizing which should take a good five days. Other than that, I plan to sunbathe on my rooftop or the hammock on my balcony and maybe attempt to take a big bite out of that 1,000 page book I mentioned many months ago, a book that I've read a whole two chapters of, but it took me about ten hours (only a slight exaggeration).
This new job is not just an answer to prayer. This is the satisfying of my heart's desires! Desires I did not even verbalize because I had no idea what they would look like, nor did I want to have the expectation that I would receive them. But God knew, He put them there after all, and He wanted to bless me with them. I am completely blown away. I am so very grateful.
I am also so very scared. Sort of. I have overwhelming peace, because I know He would never give me something I couldn't handle, but it also feels so much bigger than me that I can't help but wonder how things are gonna go.
Because the agency is so ginormous, made up of tons and tons of bureaus, I feel comfortable stating where it is I will now be employed: The U.S. Dep.artment of St.ate, the government agency that handles foreign affairs. I won't explain what it is I will specifically be doing, but I'm very excited about it. And it does involve travel, sometimes international.
If you were all here, we could go out for some celebratory drinks, because I certainly feel like celebrating!
Because my new job requires mucho paperwork and security clearance, I will have a solid two weeks with nothing to do. If you could please hold me accountable to hitting the gym every day, it would be greatly appreciated! Also, my room needs cleaning and organizing which should take a good five days. Other than that, I plan to sunbathe on my rooftop or the hammock on my balcony and maybe attempt to take a big bite out of that 1,000 page book I mentioned many months ago, a book that I've read a whole two chapters of, but it took me about ten hours (only a slight exaggeration).
This new job is not just an answer to prayer. This is the satisfying of my heart's desires! Desires I did not even verbalize because I had no idea what they would look like, nor did I want to have the expectation that I would receive them. But God knew, He put them there after all, and He wanted to bless me with them. I am completely blown away. I am so very grateful.
I am also so very scared. Sort of. I have overwhelming peace, because I know He would never give me something I couldn't handle, but it also feels so much bigger than me that I can't help but wonder how things are gonna go.
Because the agency is so ginormous, made up of tons and tons of bureaus, I feel comfortable stating where it is I will now be employed: The U.S. Dep.artment of St.ate, the government agency that handles foreign affairs. I won't explain what it is I will specifically be doing, but I'm very excited about it. And it does involve travel, sometimes international.
If you were all here, we could go out for some celebratory drinks, because I certainly feel like celebrating!
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Indiana
*Siiiiigh*
I am ex-haus-ted. Truly. And the tiredness wasn't helped by the horrible turbulence I had flying into D.C. this evening amidst the wind and rain that apparently plans to stick around for several days. Ugh.
After returning from Orlando on Tuesday, I emptied my suitcase and packed it right back up again. Following a friend's bachelorette shindig on Thursday evening, I flew out Friday morning to attend my cousin's wedding in Indiana. I skipped that friend's black-tie wedding for the simple wedding of a family member, and I'm very glad I did.
The hotel was ghetto with broken exercise equipment and mystery stains on the underside of the comforter, but I'm still alive and well. Each night, we gathered on the couches for family time - my cousins, my aunts and uncles, my parents, and my siblings and my grandma. Homemade cookies and GORP (good ol' raisins and peanuts) were passed around until the hour was late, and we were off to bed.
Most family members hit the road early this morning to drive twelve hours back to Nebraska, but I spent the day at my cousins' farmhouse south of Indianapolis. It's the coziest, most loving place I know. Lunch included my aunt's famous sloppy joes, and I tried hard not to laugh upon hearing what was on the menu. She is an excellent cook, but this is a frequent go-to meal for her and her family of nine (now eight with one married). The cousins are quite musically talented, so we gathered in their new addition to hear them sing a few songs (microphones, keyboard, and bongo drums included). The time flew by too fast, and soon I was off to the airport with my great uncle and his wife.
There is so much more I should write, because I never want to forget these special moments with my family. . but I can hardly keep my eyes open.
Tomorrow is the first day of the last week at my job. Eeee! It will be bittersweet, strange to pack up and and say goodbye, but exciting to know that something new is on the horizon.
I am ex-haus-ted. Truly. And the tiredness wasn't helped by the horrible turbulence I had flying into D.C. this evening amidst the wind and rain that apparently plans to stick around for several days. Ugh.
After returning from Orlando on Tuesday, I emptied my suitcase and packed it right back up again. Following a friend's bachelorette shindig on Thursday evening, I flew out Friday morning to attend my cousin's wedding in Indiana. I skipped that friend's black-tie wedding for the simple wedding of a family member, and I'm very glad I did.
The hotel was ghetto with broken exercise equipment and mystery stains on the underside of the comforter, but I'm still alive and well. Each night, we gathered on the couches for family time - my cousins, my aunts and uncles, my parents, and my siblings and my grandma. Homemade cookies and GORP (good ol' raisins and peanuts) were passed around until the hour was late, and we were off to bed.
Most family members hit the road early this morning to drive twelve hours back to Nebraska, but I spent the day at my cousins' farmhouse south of Indianapolis. It's the coziest, most loving place I know. Lunch included my aunt's famous sloppy joes, and I tried hard not to laugh upon hearing what was on the menu. She is an excellent cook, but this is a frequent go-to meal for her and her family of nine (now eight with one married). The cousins are quite musically talented, so we gathered in their new addition to hear them sing a few songs (microphones, keyboard, and bongo drums included). The time flew by too fast, and soon I was off to the airport with my great uncle and his wife.
There is so much more I should write, because I never want to forget these special moments with my family. . but I can hardly keep my eyes open.
Tomorrow is the first day of the last week at my job. Eeee! It will be bittersweet, strange to pack up and and say goodbye, but exciting to know that something new is on the horizon.
Tuesday, May 06, 2008
farewell to florida
I'm sitting here with Triston, playing videos of dolphins on YouTube.
"Is that a common dolphin?" he keeps asking. And when tired of watching just now, he fell onto his side on the couch and exclaimed, "These pictures are wearing me out!"
All this cuteness makes me want to stuff him in my suitcase and take him home with me. I am sad that my friends and I are going separate ways. Who knows when I'll be able to spend such an extended amount of time with them again.
It's rare that anyone feels ready to head home after spending days by the pool, at amusement parks, and with such wonderful people . . but I think I might die of exhaustion if I don't end the fun now. The late nights in the hot tub and hours in the sun have me completely fried.
I'll post some pictures soon, but what would you like to see? Pictures of me with all the Disney characters I met? Because there are A LOT. More pictures of characters than of me eating food. Shocking, I know. Especially considering the fact that I've never had an obsession with the princesses or any other animation for that matter. But I figured how many times do you have a chance to shake hands with a monster?
"Is that a common dolphin?" he keeps asking. And when tired of watching just now, he fell onto his side on the couch and exclaimed, "These pictures are wearing me out!"
All this cuteness makes me want to stuff him in my suitcase and take him home with me. I am sad that my friends and I are going separate ways. Who knows when I'll be able to spend such an extended amount of time with them again.
It's rare that anyone feels ready to head home after spending days by the pool, at amusement parks, and with such wonderful people . . but I think I might die of exhaustion if I don't end the fun now. The late nights in the hot tub and hours in the sun have me completely fried.
I'll post some pictures soon, but what would you like to see? Pictures of me with all the Disney characters I met? Because there are A LOT. More pictures of characters than of me eating food. Shocking, I know. Especially considering the fact that I've never had an obsession with the princesses or any other animation for that matter. But I figured how many times do you have a chance to shake hands with a monster?
Sunday, May 04, 2008
fun in florida
Florida is fantastic. Our five-bedroom rental house has a pool and a hot tub right out the back door. Rather than spending every day at Disney, we've been laying out by the pool and getting a lot of sun - much more fun than toting small children around amusement parks in upper-80 degree temperatures. All that said, we did spend a few hours at Sea World yesterday and plan to see Adventure Island tomorrow. I've never been to Disney World, believe it or not, so I'm hopeful it will happen.
I love these children, all four of them: 4 year-old girl, 3 year-old boy, 6 month-old boy, and 3 month-old boy. The 3 year-old, Triston, is a crack-up all the time. My good friends' son, he is one of my all-time favorite children. Always, always saying something hilarious.
Just now, as we're watching Ratatouille:
"I don't want to hear another word about rats! I don't like 'em!"
Triston is petrified of getting water in his eyes during bathtime, and although I've proven myself trustworthy, he shakes, whines, and worries that I won't wash his hair the right way. Upon successfully finishing the task with no water in the eyes, I asked him to say "You are awesome, Laura! You didn't get water in my eyes!" He repeated after me. The following night, as I was rinsing his hair amidst his whimpering and whining, he asked,
"Wora, are you awesome?" *crying while speaking*
"Well, we're all done, and I didn't get water in your eyes."
"You're awesome, Wora! . . . . I'm happy now!!" *smiling*
Not wanting his dad to leave for the evening, he exclaimed, "Daaad, don't leave. I don't appreciate that."
There are many more moments where those came from, and I'll be sad to leave my friends as we fly home to our separate locations on Tuesday. It's been a blessing to be here!
. . signing off as the kiddos are dancing to the rolling credits.
I love these children, all four of them: 4 year-old girl, 3 year-old boy, 6 month-old boy, and 3 month-old boy. The 3 year-old, Triston, is a crack-up all the time. My good friends' son, he is one of my all-time favorite children. Always, always saying something hilarious.
Just now, as we're watching Ratatouille:
"I don't want to hear another word about rats! I don't like 'em!"
Triston is petrified of getting water in his eyes during bathtime, and although I've proven myself trustworthy, he shakes, whines, and worries that I won't wash his hair the right way. Upon successfully finishing the task with no water in the eyes, I asked him to say "You are awesome, Laura! You didn't get water in my eyes!" He repeated after me. The following night, as I was rinsing his hair amidst his whimpering and whining, he asked,
"Wora, are you awesome?" *crying while speaking*
"Well, we're all done, and I didn't get water in your eyes."
"You're awesome, Wora! . . . . I'm happy now!!" *smiling*
Not wanting his dad to leave for the evening, he exclaimed, "Daaad, don't leave. I don't appreciate that."
There are many more moments where those came from, and I'll be sad to leave my friends as we fly home to our separate locations on Tuesday. It's been a blessing to be here!
. . signing off as the kiddos are dancing to the rolling credits.
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Florida, here I come!
Tomorrow I'm off to Florida where I will spend a week in Orlando with some friends and their children. I'm not sure how much time I'll spend by the pool with four kids to help care for, but JUST IN CASE, I thought I should go prepared. With this new Juicy bathing suit. In brown. Out of curiosity, how much would you spend on a bathing suit? Or how much have you spent? Not that I'm feeling guilty about my purchase or anything.
Monday, April 28, 2008
perfect timing
Whoa, speaking of The Texan . . I hung out with a bunch of his friends on Saturday night (a total blast, as they are hilarious!). And one of them asked for my number. And invited me to the garage next weekend (when The Texan will be in town). Coincidence that I will be out of town? More like PROVIDENCE. Because do you think I would've said no to the invitation in order to avoid him? Of.course.not. And once again, I am saved from myself.
Friday, April 25, 2008
Grey's
Does anyone like this Rose chick on Grey's? I wanted to like her, primarily because I have never liked Meredith, ugh. She is so self-focused and, just like she told her psychiatrist, doesn't think she has issues. But I'm having trouble liking Rose, too. If she were playing a little hard-to-get, that would be one thing, but she's all googly-eyed over McDreamy (though who could really blame her?) and actually said she loved him. Stop! I have to give her props for not jumping in the sack with him yet, because Mer certainly never hesitated, but she is foolish to be his rebound girl, and I'm afraid she's just going to get hurt.
I still want Izzy and Alex to work out. I do. I know there is a soft side to that guy, and I just wish it would come out and stick around for awhile.
I also want George and Callie to get back together. Because I believe in marriages working, regardless of the circumstances in which the marriage took place. But we all know something is going to happen between George and Mer's sister, whose name has completely slipped my mind. She's cute, but I hate that there is an innocence about her, yet she's stealing things from the hospital and don't think I've forgotten about that one-night stand with Alex. But I've forgiven her. I just hope she doesn't go and blow it again.
Do any of you watch this show? I know you do!
I still want Izzy and Alex to work out. I do. I know there is a soft side to that guy, and I just wish it would come out and stick around for awhile.
I also want George and Callie to get back together. Because I believe in marriages working, regardless of the circumstances in which the marriage took place. But we all know something is going to happen between George and Mer's sister, whose name has completely slipped my mind. She's cute, but I hate that there is an innocence about her, yet she's stealing things from the hospital and don't think I've forgotten about that one-night stand with Alex. But I've forgiven her. I just hope she doesn't go and blow it again.
Do any of you watch this show? I know you do!
What's up with me
I am so close to having a new job, I can taste it. With three possibilities hanging out there, I am confident that God will lead me into the position that is the best fit for me. I honestly believe that I could probably be happy in any of them, but there is one that excites me much more than the others. It would also probably challenge me much more than the others - ok, not probably, definitely. They've narrowed it down to three people, and I'm one of the three. Yikes!
Being assistant softball coach? It's great. I've recruited plenty of Nebraska a.lumni for our team, and I'm quickly picking up the sport. I must say, I've got a pretty nice swing. :) And Neb.raskans are just so awesome. It's been a lot of fun meeting new people and hearing how they ended up out here.
If I could talk to The Texan again, I would say one thing: "Thank You! Thank you for 1) moving all the way to Seattle and more importantly 2) introducing me to your girl friend and her husband." They are fantastic, and I am enjoying their friendship more and more. The other night I stopped by, and we chatted for over three hours! This weekend I have house- and dog-sitting duties with permission to use their very comfortable King-size bed, incredibly well-stocked refridgerator, and Wii. Cool people.
The weather here is gorgeous. I woke up early this morning to go for a run with my friends, and well . . you all need to move here. It's that great. I hope these temperatures and sunny skies stick around for the weekend, because I have a softball doubleheader and would love to play some golf on Sunday.
Have a fun weekend!
Being assistant softball coach? It's great. I've recruited plenty of Nebraska a.lumni for our team, and I'm quickly picking up the sport. I must say, I've got a pretty nice swing. :) And Neb.raskans are just so awesome. It's been a lot of fun meeting new people and hearing how they ended up out here.
If I could talk to The Texan again, I would say one thing: "Thank You! Thank you for 1) moving all the way to Seattle and more importantly 2) introducing me to your girl friend and her husband." They are fantastic, and I am enjoying their friendship more and more. The other night I stopped by, and we chatted for over three hours! This weekend I have house- and dog-sitting duties with permission to use their very comfortable King-size bed, incredibly well-stocked refridgerator, and Wii. Cool people.
The weather here is gorgeous. I woke up early this morning to go for a run with my friends, and well . . you all need to move here. It's that great. I hope these temperatures and sunny skies stick around for the weekend, because I have a softball doubleheader and would love to play some golf on Sunday.
Have a fun weekend!
Monday, April 21, 2008
the purse
During my trip home last month, I happened upon the most adorable purse I'd seen in a very long time. It was quite convenient that I actually needed a new purse, because I wanted an excuse to buy it. Unlike other times I have used the word "need", this time I actually mean it in the most literal sense. I had only three other purses to my name: one that was beat up and dirty, another that I had carried for over a year!, and another that was too 2006 trendy and just not cute anymore. So I needed this light yellow, soft leather satchel with its chain straps. Needed it.
And since buying it, I have taken such good care of it, never letting it touch the ground, tucking it under my coat in the rain, and keeping it far, far away from anything that might soil it in any way. Until last Saturday. I did think twice before taking it to the ball game . . but I didn't feel that I had a choice (see above purse options). So I grabbed it and promised myself it would stay on my lap, safe from any beer or ketchup-y ballpark hotdogs. After the game had ended, it appeared I had been successful. The purse was in perfect condition!
And then we ventured to the bars. Ugh. And it would've been one thing if the bars had been chill and relaxed, but instead we found ourselves among the clubs of Balti.more's P.ower Plant Live, and everywhere you looked things were already getting out of control. You know, with all the classy people running around. I love to dance, but this was not my idea of a good time. Then again, neither was a longer walk in my not-so-comfortable shoes. Although the dancing was moderately fun, it was a good reminder of why club-going is not a regular activity of mine: the grinding, the poles, the beer spilling, the private things being done in public places. Gross. Dirty. Can we please go home?!
Once home, I saw that, despite my best efforts to keep my purse away from any alcohol, it had gotten wet and picked up the dye from my dark jeans. I want to cry. Because it was so not worth it! And I'm afraid it won't come out. And I paid a lot for this purse. And . . *crying*.
I'll be taking it to the shoe repair shop today. Those guys work with leather a lot and perhaps they can do a miracle with my pretty purse.
And since buying it, I have taken such good care of it, never letting it touch the ground, tucking it under my coat in the rain, and keeping it far, far away from anything that might soil it in any way. Until last Saturday. I did think twice before taking it to the ball game . . but I didn't feel that I had a choice (see above purse options). So I grabbed it and promised myself it would stay on my lap, safe from any beer or ketchup-y ballpark hotdogs. After the game had ended, it appeared I had been successful. The purse was in perfect condition!
And then we ventured to the bars. Ugh. And it would've been one thing if the bars had been chill and relaxed, but instead we found ourselves among the clubs of Balti.more's P.ower Plant Live, and everywhere you looked things were already getting out of control. You know, with all the classy people running around. I love to dance, but this was not my idea of a good time. Then again, neither was a longer walk in my not-so-comfortable shoes. Although the dancing was moderately fun, it was a good reminder of why club-going is not a regular activity of mine: the grinding, the poles, the beer spilling, the private things being done in public places. Gross. Dirty. Can we please go home?!
Once home, I saw that, despite my best efforts to keep my purse away from any alcohol, it had gotten wet and picked up the dye from my dark jeans. I want to cry. Because it was so not worth it! And I'm afraid it won't come out. And I paid a lot for this purse. And . . *crying*.
I'll be taking it to the shoe repair shop today. Those guys work with leather a lot and perhaps they can do a miracle with my pretty purse.
Friday, April 18, 2008
Pictures of me trying to look important
Back door of the White House, next to the portico
The East Garden
The fife and drum band
The Pope and The President
The South Portico
View from the South Lawn (Washington Monument and Jefferson Memorial)
On the red carpet
With Tommy Lasorda!Thursday, April 17, 2008
The Papal Visit: My Experience
No, I am not Catholic. But that didn’t mean I wasn’t interested in seeing the Pope when he came to town. I just had no idea I’d actually be able to. After all, I’d seen the Queen on her visit, so what were the chances that I’d get to attend this event, too?
My good friend, Jan, sent me an email at noon the day before. Did I want to be a volunteer? Without hesitation, yes. I attended a meeting on the Sou.th Lawn that day and was given my assignment – to usher people onto the mags (the metal detectors) from the ticket check. A pretty pointless job, to be honest. But the purpose was the make sure no one wandered off the path, and to give them another welcoming smile.
Prior to the event that morning (a cold 5:30am morning, I might add), my fellow greeters and I, went through the mags to use the restrooms and walk around on the Sou.th Lawn (the backyard of the White House). One woman encouraged me to stay and pretend as though my volunteer job was closer to the action, but I really didn’t feel right about it. Instead, I walked back to my designated spot and stood (toes frozen) for hours as the ticketholders began to arrive. I can’t express the joy I felt when the sun began to rise and bring heat to the chilly air.
After greeting thousands of guests (you should’ve seen the never-ending line), I was left at the end of the line, one of the last people to walk through the mags. A big bummer, if you ask me. I needed a sneaky rule-breaker. And I found one. I spotted a guy I’d met just days before that I knew wouldn’t be content in the back, either. After being turned away at the bottom of the drive, we devised a plan to get in anyway. We would take some empty boxes we’d found to the ‘trash area’, right next to the back door of the White House. Fake it ‘til you make it, and that’s exactly what we did. We grabbed the boxes, flashed our volunteer badges, and walked right past the ticket checker (who was also just another volunteer).
I snapped a few shots near the back door – shots of the trellis and patio, and me on the side of the portico. “Soak it up,” I thought. “Soak it up.”
But we needed to find a good spot to stand. How would we get into VIP? By acting as though we were supposed to be there. We walked right into the Congressional VIP section. I guess they thought my partner-in-crime looked like a Congressman. But with standing room only even among the VIP, it still didn’t look as though I’d be able to see anything. And then, one by one, I was being allowed to step ahead of people in the crowd. They saw me standing on my tiptoes, too short to see above the tall gentlemen around me. Before I knew it, I was standing behind only a handful of people, as close as I could’ve been to the podium without being the Speaker of the House!
The ceremony was great, and some of it was much like the ceremony for the Queen, with the 21-gun salute and the fife and drum band. I loved hearing a soprano sing The Lord’s Prayer, while the harp played along with her. Just as the news announced, there were two rounds of “Happy Birthday” (at the beginning and end) as we waved our mini American and Italian flags in the air.
My favorite quote from the Pope was this: “’In a worl.d without truth, freedom loses its foundation,’ and a democ.racy without values can lose its very soul.” A statement we should all pay attention to as we watch the morals and the teaching of our Founders fade away.
After the ceremony had ended, I stayed on the Lawn as long as I could. Pictures, pictures, pictures. By the podium, by the portico, on the red carpet . . and with Tommy Lasorda! The freezing morning had become a beautiful day. The weather was perfect and so was my experience.
My good friend, Jan, sent me an email at noon the day before. Did I want to be a volunteer? Without hesitation, yes. I attended a meeting on the Sou.th Lawn that day and was given my assignment – to usher people onto the mags (the metal detectors) from the ticket check. A pretty pointless job, to be honest. But the purpose was the make sure no one wandered off the path, and to give them another welcoming smile.
Prior to the event that morning (a cold 5:30am morning, I might add), my fellow greeters and I, went through the mags to use the restrooms and walk around on the Sou.th Lawn (the backyard of the White House). One woman encouraged me to stay and pretend as though my volunteer job was closer to the action, but I really didn’t feel right about it. Instead, I walked back to my designated spot and stood (toes frozen) for hours as the ticketholders began to arrive. I can’t express the joy I felt when the sun began to rise and bring heat to the chilly air.
After greeting thousands of guests (you should’ve seen the never-ending line), I was left at the end of the line, one of the last people to walk through the mags. A big bummer, if you ask me. I needed a sneaky rule-breaker. And I found one. I spotted a guy I’d met just days before that I knew wouldn’t be content in the back, either. After being turned away at the bottom of the drive, we devised a plan to get in anyway. We would take some empty boxes we’d found to the ‘trash area’, right next to the back door of the White House. Fake it ‘til you make it, and that’s exactly what we did. We grabbed the boxes, flashed our volunteer badges, and walked right past the ticket checker (who was also just another volunteer).
I snapped a few shots near the back door – shots of the trellis and patio, and me on the side of the portico. “Soak it up,” I thought. “Soak it up.”
But we needed to find a good spot to stand. How would we get into VIP? By acting as though we were supposed to be there. We walked right into the Congressional VIP section. I guess they thought my partner-in-crime looked like a Congressman. But with standing room only even among the VIP, it still didn’t look as though I’d be able to see anything. And then, one by one, I was being allowed to step ahead of people in the crowd. They saw me standing on my tiptoes, too short to see above the tall gentlemen around me. Before I knew it, I was standing behind only a handful of people, as close as I could’ve been to the podium without being the Speaker of the House!
The ceremony was great, and some of it was much like the ceremony for the Queen, with the 21-gun salute and the fife and drum band. I loved hearing a soprano sing The Lord’s Prayer, while the harp played along with her. Just as the news announced, there were two rounds of “Happy Birthday” (at the beginning and end) as we waved our mini American and Italian flags in the air.
My favorite quote from the Pope was this: “’In a worl.d without truth, freedom loses its foundation,’ and a democ.racy without values can lose its very soul.” A statement we should all pay attention to as we watch the morals and the teaching of our Founders fade away.
After the ceremony had ended, I stayed on the Lawn as long as I could. Pictures, pictures, pictures. By the podium, by the portico, on the red carpet . . and with Tommy Lasorda! The freezing morning had become a beautiful day. The weather was perfect and so was my experience.
Monday, April 14, 2008
Friday nights could be booked for the rest of my life
A new-to-me BBQ joint and country line dancing. I can't think of a better start to a weekend. Kentucky and I had a blast letting out our inner country. We arrived at 8pm to learn some new dances and didn't leave until closing time. The band was great, the regulars encouraged us to come back soon, and we, of course, promised we would!
Thursday, April 10, 2008
hypothetically
Recently, in addition to job hunting, scouring design blogs for inspiration, checking out preview photos for estate sales, keeping up to speed on certain sports teams, and - oh good grief, I could go on all day! - I also spent a good chunk of time on the Internet deciding how I'd like to further my education. If it was free. Oh yeah, and if it was only about three hours a week. Real ambitious, this one.
So hypothetically, if I were able to learn about new things for absolutely free (or at least for really cheap), I now know what those things would be. All twenty of them. Thanks to the local community college online catalog.
If I were seriously considering going back for my Masters (breathing into a bag at the overwhelming thought of the thesis), I'm not sure what I'd pursue. Probably a degree in writing or some other communications field.
But if we're talking about having some real educational fun, here are some of the classes I'd consider:
History of Architecture
Photography
Painting
Printmaking
Nutrition
Writing
Intro to Greek
Theory and Techniques of Interior Design
Styles of Furniture and Interiors
Materials and Sources (Interior Design)
Business Procedures (Interior Design)
Marketing
Public Relations
Principles of E-Commerce
Geography of Tourism
Small Business Management
Business Mathematics
Business Mathematics?! I can't believe anything involving the word 'math' is included in this list, but unfortunately it's a very important part of owning your own business, which is something that I have an interest in.
What about you?
What would you pursue, either for fun or 'for serious'?
So hypothetically, if I were able to learn about new things for absolutely free (or at least for really cheap), I now know what those things would be. All twenty of them. Thanks to the local community college online catalog.
If I were seriously considering going back for my Masters (breathing into a bag at the overwhelming thought of the thesis), I'm not sure what I'd pursue. Probably a degree in writing or some other communications field.
But if we're talking about having some real educational fun, here are some of the classes I'd consider:
History of Architecture
Photography
Painting
Printmaking
Nutrition
Writing
Intro to Greek
Theory and Techniques of Interior Design
Styles of Furniture and Interiors
Materials and Sources (Interior Design)
Business Procedures (Interior Design)
Marketing
Public Relations
Principles of E-Commerce
Geography of Tourism
Small Business Management
Business Mathematics
Business Mathematics?! I can't believe anything involving the word 'math' is included in this list, but unfortunately it's a very important part of owning your own business, which is something that I have an interest in.
What about you?
What would you pursue, either for fun or 'for serious'?
Go West!
Hmm, I think I need to head back to the West Coast.Seriously.
Coincidentally, I did apply to a job in SoCal that I think I'd love. I can dream.
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
the enabler
Many became envious when they heard I was working from home yesterday (although I wasn't feeling well). But what they didn't know is that I sat in the same chair for 8 hours straight. No food, no bathroom, no turning on the television. Nothing. There are two very logical reasons for this: #1. My "new" chair is very comfortable (and I have Co-Worker/Friend to thank for giving it to me as my first re-upholstery project) and #2. I am obsessed with the internet. Dangerous combination.
My job search is like a very slow-moving train. One that hasn't made many stops, whose destination is still unclear. But just like I only need one husband, I also only need one job. I know God will provide it in the right timing, and although I'm sure I'll be nervous about starting something new, He won't give me anything I can't handle. One week from today, the train will re-visit a stop it's seen before. Ok, enough with the analogies - I have a second interview somewhere. I'll be meeting the CEO of the company, and I'm hoping that by the end of the conversation, I'll just know one way or the other.
My job search is like a very slow-moving train. One that hasn't made many stops, whose destination is still unclear. But just like I only need one husband, I also only need one job. I know God will provide it in the right timing, and although I'm sure I'll be nervous about starting something new, He won't give me anything I can't handle. One week from today, the train will re-visit a stop it's seen before. Ok, enough with the analogies - I have a second interview somewhere. I'll be meeting the CEO of the company, and I'm hoping that by the end of the conversation, I'll just know one way or the other.
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