Monday, December 31, 2007
This sucks. I want my YACCS comments back, but I haven't figured out how to do it with the new template and editing interface. I'm hoping to figure it out eventually. For now, I'm going to enable the Blogger comments. I just want the YACCS ones because it's a good, easy-to-use program and then all my archived comments will be there from the beginning.
Thursday, December 27, 2007
Slacker As Usual
It's no surprise that I haven't updated it a long time. The reasons are plentiful, but really boil down to two things: 1) I've been using MySpace and Facebook more often. 2) I've always been a slacker and continue to be a slacker.
Some time in the next week I plan to create a top ten list of 2007 in preparation for the new year. By the way, since when is New Year's Eve referred to regularly as "NYE"? Somehow I didn't catch that until I saw it several times this year. For a while there I thought NYE was either a nightclub or a new alcoholic beverage. Close enough, I suppose.
Chris and I are hosting a NYE...bleah, I refuse to use it. Chris and I are hosting a New Year's Eve party at our place this year, which sounds like a lot of fun, but I have a feeling that most of our friends are going to bugger out and attend other festivities that evening. Oh well. I'm sure that even if our party has less than 10 people, it will still be a blast. Besides, there's always the Procrastinator's Ball the weekend following New Year's Eve. That's consistently been a great time.
I hope everyone had a fabulous Christmas, Winter Solstice, Kwanzaa, Eid, etc. I think my highlights of the holidays thus far have been my nephew repeatedly saying, "1, 2, 3 smile!" as he ran around with the camera I gave him, and having my cousin Josh unexpectedly crashing our family Christmas celebration when the weather got bad on his way to his family's house. I might have even successfully passed on Telephone Pictionary to yet another worthy participant.
Feliz Navidad! Hasta El Neuvo Ano!
It's no surprise that I haven't updated it a long time. The reasons are plentiful, but really boil down to two things: 1) I've been using MySpace and Facebook more often. 2) I've always been a slacker and continue to be a slacker.
Some time in the next week I plan to create a top ten list of 2007 in preparation for the new year. By the way, since when is New Year's Eve referred to regularly as "NYE"? Somehow I didn't catch that until I saw it several times this year. For a while there I thought NYE was either a nightclub or a new alcoholic beverage. Close enough, I suppose.
Chris and I are hosting a NYE...bleah, I refuse to use it. Chris and I are hosting a New Year's Eve party at our place this year, which sounds like a lot of fun, but I have a feeling that most of our friends are going to bugger out and attend other festivities that evening. Oh well. I'm sure that even if our party has less than 10 people, it will still be a blast. Besides, there's always the Procrastinator's Ball the weekend following New Year's Eve. That's consistently been a great time.
I hope everyone had a fabulous Christmas, Winter Solstice, Kwanzaa, Eid, etc. I think my highlights of the holidays thus far have been my nephew repeatedly saying, "1, 2, 3 smile!" as he ran around with the camera I gave him, and having my cousin Josh unexpectedly crashing our family Christmas celebration when the weather got bad on his way to his family's house. I might have even successfully passed on Telephone Pictionary to yet another worthy participant.
Feliz Navidad! Hasta El Neuvo Ano!
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Severing and Binding
In two days, I sever a tie that cost me $60 last month. Comcast. I informed them that there was no f-ing way I was going to give them another dime, no matter what "deal" they were going to set up for me. For a year we payed $30/month, which seemed fairly reasonable. At no time when I signed up did they say, "This price is promotional and will DOUBLE after a year." Apparently, they didn't feel it was important information to share. Well, we put up the money for last month so we could take more time to peruse new providers, and we did finally find one that seemed very reasonable. We're going through USI Wireless, which is cooperating with Minneapolis, trying to make the whole city wireless accessible. What will the cost be? About $18.50 a month (by paying it all in one lump sum for a year's access) and $80.00 for their modem. Hm, let's see...$18 or $60...which one was I going to choose?
In other news, we're very, very annoyed with our landlord. He told us he was going to fix the insulation in the attic this summer. He didn't. I sent him a letter about it. No call. I called him a few days later. He was apathetic, "I'll call the contractor and see if he has the time." I told him that if he doesn't have the time, he can just pay for some of our outrageous heating bill. So far, no response. It has been 14 days, so I'll be calling him tomorrow. Eventually, if nothing gets done and no agreement is made, I will take him to court. Scary.
School is going alright. There are a few...challenging students this year, but that's to be expected. Not every student is going to be bright and cheery and ready to learn. Some are just going to be beeoches, no matter what you do. The funny thing is, students I had last year that were a little difficult look at the new students and give me sympathetic looks. How time flies...and children mature.
Married life? It pretty well rocks, even if both of us are pretty busy lately. Chris is still getting accustomed to his new work schedule, but we make a point of spending time together when he gets home from work (except now while I'm blogging). He is mildly amused/annoyed at my current addiction to Facebook, but he's managing alright. I'm sure he'll turn to the geek side eventually.
Speaking of, for the first time, I watched "Beauty and the Geek" for it's season premier. It was rather addicting. I might have to tune in again, even though reality TV usually turns my stomach. Either my appetite has changed, or the show is nearly decent.
In two days, I sever a tie that cost me $60 last month. Comcast. I informed them that there was no f-ing way I was going to give them another dime, no matter what "deal" they were going to set up for me. For a year we payed $30/month, which seemed fairly reasonable. At no time when I signed up did they say, "This price is promotional and will DOUBLE after a year." Apparently, they didn't feel it was important information to share. Well, we put up the money for last month so we could take more time to peruse new providers, and we did finally find one that seemed very reasonable. We're going through USI Wireless, which is cooperating with Minneapolis, trying to make the whole city wireless accessible. What will the cost be? About $18.50 a month (by paying it all in one lump sum for a year's access) and $80.00 for their modem. Hm, let's see...$18 or $60...which one was I going to choose?
In other news, we're very, very annoyed with our landlord. He told us he was going to fix the insulation in the attic this summer. He didn't. I sent him a letter about it. No call. I called him a few days later. He was apathetic, "I'll call the contractor and see if he has the time." I told him that if he doesn't have the time, he can just pay for some of our outrageous heating bill. So far, no response. It has been 14 days, so I'll be calling him tomorrow. Eventually, if nothing gets done and no agreement is made, I will take him to court. Scary.
School is going alright. There are a few...challenging students this year, but that's to be expected. Not every student is going to be bright and cheery and ready to learn. Some are just going to be beeoches, no matter what you do. The funny thing is, students I had last year that were a little difficult look at the new students and give me sympathetic looks. How time flies...and children mature.
Married life? It pretty well rocks, even if both of us are pretty busy lately. Chris is still getting accustomed to his new work schedule, but we make a point of spending time together when he gets home from work (except now while I'm blogging). He is mildly amused/annoyed at my current addiction to Facebook, but he's managing alright. I'm sure he'll turn to the geek side eventually.
Speaking of, for the first time, I watched "Beauty and the Geek" for it's season premier. It was rather addicting. I might have to tune in again, even though reality TV usually turns my stomach. Either my appetite has changed, or the show is nearly decent.
Thursday, September 06, 2007
The Honeymoon is Over
It was already over in the last blog entry, I suppose. OF COURSE the feelings are still there and Chris and I are very happily married. But the reality of jobs has really set in.
Chris started a part time job in the northwest burbs a few weeks ago. I started teaching for the fall school year this week. Granted, I have been working for most of the summer anyway, but it is a little different teaching a full load at the beginning of a school year. I have to say, though, I am psyched to be at the same school for a second year. FINALLY!
One thing that sucks is that Chris and I have different schedules now. Monday through Thursday, Chris works evenings, which means I only see him in the morning when I wake up and for about 2 hours before I fall asleep at night. It could be a lot worse, and I know we'll get used to it, but it's taking a while. I know it's especially hard for him since he would much rather be working full time during the day. But he's working hard and searching hard for a new job, and hasn't given up trying. He's got some patience, that's for sure. Hmmm, maybe that's one of the reasons I married him...
So yeah, not the end of the world. Just a setback that really isn't holding us back much. I just know it's gotta suck doing a job that doesn't involve using your college degree and isn't very thrilling. Work isn't fun anyway. Yeah, I like teaching. Sometimes I even love it. However, it does vacuum up huge swaths of my life, and there are times I really wish I had a 9-5 job that was truly over at 5. I'm just happy both of us are working at all. Sure, we're years away from having all of the things we want, but at least we have one thing taken care of--finding someone to spend the rest of our lives with. I mean, some people have everything--job, house, car, garden, pets, vacations, plasma TV, thrilling sex life, stellar workout program--but they are still not satisfied because they haven't found someone to love. Man, does that sound hokey...really, really lame.
But that doesn't make it less true. I just have to keep telling myself, and keep telling Chris, "We're damn lucky." So we had better appreciate it. Hell, we're alive! Life rocks.
It was already over in the last blog entry, I suppose. OF COURSE the feelings are still there and Chris and I are very happily married. But the reality of jobs has really set in.
Chris started a part time job in the northwest burbs a few weeks ago. I started teaching for the fall school year this week. Granted, I have been working for most of the summer anyway, but it is a little different teaching a full load at the beginning of a school year. I have to say, though, I am psyched to be at the same school for a second year. FINALLY!
One thing that sucks is that Chris and I have different schedules now. Monday through Thursday, Chris works evenings, which means I only see him in the morning when I wake up and for about 2 hours before I fall asleep at night. It could be a lot worse, and I know we'll get used to it, but it's taking a while. I know it's especially hard for him since he would much rather be working full time during the day. But he's working hard and searching hard for a new job, and hasn't given up trying. He's got some patience, that's for sure. Hmmm, maybe that's one of the reasons I married him...
So yeah, not the end of the world. Just a setback that really isn't holding us back much. I just know it's gotta suck doing a job that doesn't involve using your college degree and isn't very thrilling. Work isn't fun anyway. Yeah, I like teaching. Sometimes I even love it. However, it does vacuum up huge swaths of my life, and there are times I really wish I had a 9-5 job that was truly over at 5. I'm just happy both of us are working at all. Sure, we're years away from having all of the things we want, but at least we have one thing taken care of--finding someone to spend the rest of our lives with. I mean, some people have everything--job, house, car, garden, pets, vacations, plasma TV, thrilling sex life, stellar workout program--but they are still not satisfied because they haven't found someone to love. Man, does that sound hokey...really, really lame.
But that doesn't make it less true. I just have to keep telling myself, and keep telling Chris, "We're damn lucky." So we had better appreciate it. Hell, we're alive! Life rocks.
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Honey sweet honeymoon
During week after the wedding, Chris and I had a fabulous honeymoon in southeastern Minnesota. Sadly, that same area is suffering from severe flooding. But when we were there, it was beautiful, even though it was super hot.
We started our trist in Red Wing at the Moondance Inn--a super sweet bed and breakfast. The first and third floors were decked out with plenty of seating, included chaise lounges. The breakfast was phenomenal. Did I mention the king sized bed with black satin sheets and gold pillows?
The whirlpool tub wasn't much, but the room itself and the BED were fantastic.
Our first night out, Chris and I went out for a great dinner. We would have eaten anything, but we made a good choice with Liberty's for a good basic meal. Yummy fish. 
We stopped at a pretty little park a few blocks from our B&B. Red Wing is a really cute town I'd like to explore some more.
The next day we rented bikes and covered 20 miles via the Cannon Valley Trail.
Chris after 18 miles. Notice how comfortable he looks?
Me after 18 miles. Notice how much more tired I look? My rear was sore!
The next day we went hiking up Barn Bluff. We took the North Trail--the most difficult of the trails, but thankfully, the most shady.
This is the "shortcut" I decided we should take. It wasn't so much a trail as a path that some people had used before. It started out really easy. It ended up being something I pretty much crawled up, digging my hands into the dirt to grip roots and rocks to keep myself steady. Maybe it wasn't the best idea I ever had.
This is Chris after we took the "shortcut" to the top. Notice how he is not winded and there's not a speck of dirt on him.
This is me after we took the "shortcut" to the top. Notice that I was really thirsty. Also note the dirt on my elbow and palm. If you had seen my knees, you'd have thought I was lost in the wilderness and had just returned to civilization.
I suppose the view was worth it. Needless to say, we didn't take the "shortcut" back down. The trail was dangerous enough for me.
Before we left, we ate at an awesome restaurant that specialized in hors d'oeuvres. It was playfully called "Oar D'oeureves" since it is close to the river. The food was SO good. And the town was so cool. I'm definitely going back to Red Wing.
The next place we stayed at had a very different feel to it. But it was still quite nice. Very cute and antiquish. It was right across from the college.
The bed was smaller and MUCH squeakier. And, unfortunately, all of the rooms were VERY close together. Did I mention that we didn't see a young couple at either B&B all week? Still, I bet those older folks had fun.
One of the nice things about the Carriage House was that they had classic Schwin bikes in their garage that we could use. They even had a tandem bike, but it was sort of wobbly and I was rather intimidated by them. There were some nice trails around Lake Winona, but we didn't bike too much because it was really hot out and the trails were far from shady. We did stop at a sweet Drive In restaurant--oldest one in MN. Yummy shakes.
Check out the view from Garvin Heights. The best part, not photographed, was that Chris and I got there a minute before a whole group of Vacation Bible School teenagers showed up. Of course, we made out. Hey--we're married!
While in Winona, we got massages, pedicures, and saw a Shakespeare play at the college, "As You Like It." I think Chris liked it, though he was a little lost in the beginning. It was really well done. Perhaps I'll see next year's production.
On the way back, we made a point of stopping to look at Lake Pepin. We even skipped stones for a while. We didn't do very well, but we got a few going.
Well, that was our honeymoon. There was a lot more too it, but most of that I can't share ;) We had a wonderful time--it was really romantic. I think we'll make a stop by there again sometime. It almost rivals the North Shore. Almost.
During week after the wedding, Chris and I had a fabulous honeymoon in southeastern Minnesota. Sadly, that same area is suffering from severe flooding. But when we were there, it was beautiful, even though it was super hot.
We started our trist in Red Wing at the Moondance Inn--a super sweet bed and breakfast. The first and third floors were decked out with plenty of seating, included chaise lounges. The breakfast was phenomenal. Did I mention the king sized bed with black satin sheets and gold pillows?
The whirlpool tub wasn't much, but the room itself and the BED were fantastic.
Our first night out, Chris and I went out for a great dinner. We would have eaten anything, but we made a good choice with Liberty's for a good basic meal. Yummy fish. 
We stopped at a pretty little park a few blocks from our B&B. Red Wing is a really cute town I'd like to explore some more.
The next day we rented bikes and covered 20 miles via the Cannon Valley Trail.
Chris after 18 miles. Notice how comfortable he looks?
Me after 18 miles. Notice how much more tired I look? My rear was sore!
The next day we went hiking up Barn Bluff. We took the North Trail--the most difficult of the trails, but thankfully, the most shady.
This is the "shortcut" I decided we should take. It wasn't so much a trail as a path that some people had used before. It started out really easy. It ended up being something I pretty much crawled up, digging my hands into the dirt to grip roots and rocks to keep myself steady. Maybe it wasn't the best idea I ever had.
This is Chris after we took the "shortcut" to the top. Notice how he is not winded and there's not a speck of dirt on him.
This is me after we took the "shortcut" to the top. Notice that I was really thirsty. Also note the dirt on my elbow and palm. If you had seen my knees, you'd have thought I was lost in the wilderness and had just returned to civilization.
I suppose the view was worth it. Needless to say, we didn't take the "shortcut" back down. The trail was dangerous enough for me.
Before we left, we ate at an awesome restaurant that specialized in hors d'oeuvres. It was playfully called "Oar D'oeureves" since it is close to the river. The food was SO good. And the town was so cool. I'm definitely going back to Red Wing.
The next place we stayed at had a very different feel to it. But it was still quite nice. Very cute and antiquish. It was right across from the college.
The bed was smaller and MUCH squeakier. And, unfortunately, all of the rooms were VERY close together. Did I mention that we didn't see a young couple at either B&B all week? Still, I bet those older folks had fun.
One of the nice things about the Carriage House was that they had classic Schwin bikes in their garage that we could use. They even had a tandem bike, but it was sort of wobbly and I was rather intimidated by them. There were some nice trails around Lake Winona, but we didn't bike too much because it was really hot out and the trails were far from shady. We did stop at a sweet Drive In restaurant--oldest one in MN. Yummy shakes.
Check out the view from Garvin Heights. The best part, not photographed, was that Chris and I got there a minute before a whole group of Vacation Bible School teenagers showed up. Of course, we made out. Hey--we're married!
While in Winona, we got massages, pedicures, and saw a Shakespeare play at the college, "As You Like It." I think Chris liked it, though he was a little lost in the beginning. It was really well done. Perhaps I'll see next year's production.
On the way back, we made a point of stopping to look at Lake Pepin. We even skipped stones for a while. We didn't do very well, but we got a few going. Well, that was our honeymoon. There was a lot more too it, but most of that I can't share ;) We had a wonderful time--it was really romantic. I think we'll make a stop by there again sometime. It almost rivals the North Shore. Almost.
Sunday, August 05, 2007
And We Have the Pictures to Prove It
Our professional photos arrived yesterday! We were a little busy yesterday, so we just got to see them today. Yay! There are some super sweet ones, hilarious ones, and really mushy ones. A great mix done wonderfully well by our professional photographer. I'm really happy with pics I've seen from friends and family too. But here's a sample of the professional pics.
Our professional photos arrived yesterday! We were a little busy yesterday, so we just got to see them today. Yay! There are some super sweet ones, hilarious ones, and really mushy ones. A great mix done wonderfully well by our professional photographer. I'm really happy with pics I've seen from friends and family too. But here's a sample of the professional pics.
Sunday, July 29, 2007
It Was a Beautiful Day
These are just a few pictures my brother took. Sadly, he didn't sit close enough to really get any good shots of the ceremony. I'm hoping that with the professional photographer and friends, we have many more and better pictures to share eventually. I can't wait to see a good pic of the bridesmaids--the only one I had was just not that flattering.
And in completely unrelated news that is not nearly so personal or relatively important but is also beautiful in its own way...
These are just a few pictures my brother took. Sadly, he didn't sit close enough to really get any good shots of the ceremony. I'm hoping that with the professional photographer and friends, we have many more and better pictures to share eventually. I can't wait to see a good pic of the bridesmaids--the only one I had was just not that flattering.
And in completely unrelated news that is not nearly so personal or relatively important but is also beautiful in its own way...
Saturday, July 28, 2007
Heart It Races
Not an original title, by any means. I can't wait 'til the new AIH album comes out in August. But besides the title of a their hit single, it sort of sums up my life of late.
I'M MARRIED! EEK! I'm so happy it's sick. I get to call Chris my "husband." It's so bizarre. I love him and I love the idea of being married to him. It's just so weird to think of myself as being married. I mean, married people are old, right? ::sigh:: I guess I'm old now. Oh well.
We just got back from our honeymoon this afternoon and an hour and a half later I was on my way to Jenny's bridal shower. Tiring, but sweet to see friends after all the hoopla is done. Putting a wedding together is not an easy or short task. I could not have done it without tons of help--I love my friends and family, so dearly.
And I love all those friends and family who made it there and the ones who sent their best wishes our way. There's a few faces I didn't get to see, which was sad, but as it was I was so busy that I could barely say more than a few words to the folks that were present. I hear that's not unusual and I can understand why.
My computer's hot and so am I, so I won't blog about the honeymoon yet. But I'll have some fun details to say later. Maybe after I read Harry Potter 7. I bought it on Monday, after the wedding and before the honeymoon, and I promised Chris I wouldn't take it on the honeymoon. It was difficult, but he kept me busy enough not to notice ;) Now that I'm back, I'm itching for those pages, but to be fair, I'm holding off for one more night.
Tomorrow, no pages barred.
Not an original title, by any means. I can't wait 'til the new AIH album comes out in August. But besides the title of a their hit single, it sort of sums up my life of late.
I'M MARRIED! EEK! I'm so happy it's sick. I get to call Chris my "husband." It's so bizarre. I love him and I love the idea of being married to him. It's just so weird to think of myself as being married. I mean, married people are old, right? ::sigh:: I guess I'm old now. Oh well.
We just got back from our honeymoon this afternoon and an hour and a half later I was on my way to Jenny's bridal shower. Tiring, but sweet to see friends after all the hoopla is done. Putting a wedding together is not an easy or short task. I could not have done it without tons of help--I love my friends and family, so dearly.
And I love all those friends and family who made it there and the ones who sent their best wishes our way. There's a few faces I didn't get to see, which was sad, but as it was I was so busy that I could barely say more than a few words to the folks that were present. I hear that's not unusual and I can understand why.
My computer's hot and so am I, so I won't blog about the honeymoon yet. But I'll have some fun details to say later. Maybe after I read Harry Potter 7. I bought it on Monday, after the wedding and before the honeymoon, and I promised Chris I wouldn't take it on the honeymoon. It was difficult, but he kept me busy enough not to notice ;) Now that I'm back, I'm itching for those pages, but to be fair, I'm holding off for one more night.
Tomorrow, no pages barred.
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
K.R.A.P: Reflections of a Soon-to-be-wed.
Okay, I don't have enough things done to constitute a copy paste and delete of my Things to Do list. But I do have a few pieces of advice for you. In fact, I think it's time for a long awaited addition of KRAP (Katie's Random Advice Post).
1. Go see Transformers. It's a kick-ass movie. It brought back childhood memories and dreams I had forgotten...don't ask me why I dreamed about Starscream holding me captive. When I get home, I'm totally digging out our bucket of Transformers. If my mom gave them away, I'm going to cry...and then buy a new toy.
2. Eat pudding. I have spent years unappreciative of chocolate pudding. No longer.
3. Just give up now. Once a procrastinator, always a procrastinator. I'm a procrastinator in everything always, even my own wedding.
4. Always RSVP, even if you have no intention of attending the event. Not RSVPing isn't so much rude as just really f-ing annoying and time consuming.
5. Go to bed. If you're staring at your computer screen and your eyes are glazing over, it's time for bed. No more stalling. Is reading a blog really worth giving up 15 minutes of sleep or a nice little cat nap with the window open, the breeze flowing lightly over your skin? I doubt it.
Okay, I don't have enough things done to constitute a copy paste and delete of my Things to Do list. But I do have a few pieces of advice for you. In fact, I think it's time for a long awaited addition of KRAP (Katie's Random Advice Post).
1. Go see Transformers. It's a kick-ass movie. It brought back childhood memories and dreams I had forgotten...don't ask me why I dreamed about Starscream holding me captive. When I get home, I'm totally digging out our bucket of Transformers. If my mom gave them away, I'm going to cry...and then buy a new toy.
2. Eat pudding. I have spent years unappreciative of chocolate pudding. No longer.
3. Just give up now. Once a procrastinator, always a procrastinator. I'm a procrastinator in everything always, even my own wedding.
4. Always RSVP, even if you have no intention of attending the event. Not RSVPing isn't so much rude as just really f-ing annoying and time consuming.
5. Go to bed. If you're staring at your computer screen and your eyes are glazing over, it's time for bed. No more stalling. Is reading a blog really worth giving up 15 minutes of sleep or a nice little cat nap with the window open, the breeze flowing lightly over your skin? I doubt it.
Thursday, July 05, 2007
16 days and what do you get?
Married, I guess. Scheisse. The days are whizzing by me and I can't seem to lasso them into submission. Only 16 days until the wedding and 13 days until we drive back to GB to get things ready ahead of time. I'm excited and just crazy at the same time. I'd be fine if I didn't have summer school starting on Monday. I could have said no. I really could have said no. BUT, the money and the whole trying to impress the bosses...it was too much to resist. Besides, Chris is still trying to get a job, but he did have a sweet interview today, so I hope the best for him. But at least we have our honeymoon planned, even if it isn't exactly an exotic adventure.
Still, progress has been made in many areas. But there's more to do and less and less time to do it in. Some fun highlights? Getting a leather loveseat tomorrow (total hand-me-down), had fun bridal showers and awesome bachelorette parties, and have had 3 weeks of sleeping in. However, there are a few things hanging over me yet. These are the things still not checked off my "to do" list:
My Wedding:
1. Purchase some ribbon to attach some of the decorations for the ceremony.
2. Make sure our DJ has the songs we put together on CD and has the correct playlist for the wedding.
3. Go through the options the photographer sent to us and choose the shots we want.
4. Buy some details such as: a pen and a cake knife and server.
5. Write my vows.
6. Write up our special Unity speech.
What about for other people's weddings?
Frankly, at this point, other people's weddings are the least of my concerns. Ask me after July 27.
What about school?
1. FILE a few more stacks of papers that are left with other junk in my dining room.
2. Plan more than the first day of summer school. It's hard to break old habits, but I'll go insane if I don't.
3. Register for and take a class about web publishing so that I can help create an online school newspaper for the school next year.
Life?
1. Take Chris's mom, grandmother, and great-grandmother shopping for their dresses they will wear to our wedding.
2. Bike a lot all over the place in a lame attempt to make the bike purchase worthwhile and get in better shape.
3. Try running a bit in the mornings, if I get the ambition. Biking just seems a lot easier and I get farther.
4. Call my grandmother more often.
5. Write more, watch less TV, and finally use that teeth whitening kit. (I've been super awesome about not drinking tea or coffee for the past few weeks.)
6. Make less lists. Accomplish more on lists.
Wow, looks like I've made progress everywhere EXCEPT in my overall life. Baby steps?
Married, I guess. Scheisse. The days are whizzing by me and I can't seem to lasso them into submission. Only 16 days until the wedding and 13 days until we drive back to GB to get things ready ahead of time. I'm excited and just crazy at the same time. I'd be fine if I didn't have summer school starting on Monday. I could have said no. I really could have said no. BUT, the money and the whole trying to impress the bosses...it was too much to resist. Besides, Chris is still trying to get a job, but he did have a sweet interview today, so I hope the best for him. But at least we have our honeymoon planned, even if it isn't exactly an exotic adventure.
Still, progress has been made in many areas. But there's more to do and less and less time to do it in. Some fun highlights? Getting a leather loveseat tomorrow (total hand-me-down), had fun bridal showers and awesome bachelorette parties, and have had 3 weeks of sleeping in. However, there are a few things hanging over me yet. These are the things still not checked off my "to do" list:
My Wedding:
1. Purchase some ribbon to attach some of the decorations for the ceremony.
2. Make sure our DJ has the songs we put together on CD and has the correct playlist for the wedding.
3. Go through the options the photographer sent to us and choose the shots we want.
4. Buy some details such as: a pen and a cake knife and server.
5. Write my vows.
6. Write up our special Unity speech.
What about for other people's weddings?
Frankly, at this point, other people's weddings are the least of my concerns. Ask me after July 27.
What about school?
1. FILE a few more stacks of papers that are left with other junk in my dining room.
2. Plan more than the first day of summer school. It's hard to break old habits, but I'll go insane if I don't.
3. Register for and take a class about web publishing so that I can help create an online school newspaper for the school next year.
Life?
1. Take Chris's mom, grandmother, and great-grandmother shopping for their dresses they will wear to our wedding.
2. Bike a lot all over the place in a lame attempt to make the bike purchase worthwhile and get in better shape.
3. Try running a bit in the mornings, if I get the ambition. Biking just seems a lot easier and I get farther.
4. Call my grandmother more often.
5. Write more, watch less TV, and finally use that teeth whitening kit. (I've been super awesome about not drinking tea or coffee for the past few weeks.)
6. Make less lists. Accomplish more on lists.
Wow, looks like I've made progress everywhere EXCEPT in my overall life. Baby steps?
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Ass-thetically Pleasing
Chris and I went biking today. The total trip was about 16 miles, but we did take a few breaks for el bano and for playing some catch with a baseball and a frisbee--no, not at the same time, though I suggested it and I bet it would have been the awesomest game ever :P It was a good ride to get me out of my complacent, sedentary funk, but my ass certainly does hurt now.
In other more sightly news, I've managed to get a few things accomplished from my list of the previous blog entry. Here's the current list (more for my sake than yours):
My Wedding:
1. Purchase decorations for ceremony and reception at already decided online site.
2. Add MORE songs to and weed out songs from the ceremony and reception music playlists.
3. Talk to the photographer to figure out when we need to be there and if he needs any other information about us for the wedding pictures.
4. Buy some details such as: party favors, a sign in book and pen, and other little traditional details...I have no idea what, but there's always more things to spend Spend SPEND on.
5. Clean up the house in preparation for people either staying the weekend or stopping over for my bachelorette pre-party.
6. Find my birth certificate and social security card so that I can go to the county clerk and apply for a marriage license with Chris. Sort of important, hm?
What about for other people's weddings?
1. Buy party favors for Jenni's bridal shower.
2. Plan games and fun activities for Jenni's bridal shower (and later bachelorette party).
3. Make food for Jenni's bridal shower.
4. Make plans with Tricia for Jenni's and my bridal shower/bachelorette party in MN.
5. Purchase gifts for Jenni's, Elyssa's, and Jenny's weddings.
What about school?
1. FILE all of stacks upon stacks of papers that are now stuffed in two file boxes that are stacked with other junk in my dining room.
2. Plan the curriculum for and teach summer school despite the fact that I'll be taking 2 weeks off. I guess they really need me, and I'm in no position to say no.
3. Register for and take a class about web publishing so that I can help create an online school newspaper for the school next year.
Life?
1. Take Chris's mom, grandmother, and great-grandmother shopping for their dresses they will wear to our wedding.
2. Bike a lot all over the place in a lame attempt to make the bike purchase worthwhile and get in better shape.
3. Try running a bit in the mornings, if I get the ambition. Biking just seems a lot easier and I get farther.
4. Call my grandmother more often.
5. Write more, watch less TV, and finally use that teeth whitening kit. (I've been super awesome about not drinking tea or coffee for the past few weeks.)
6. Make less lists. Accomplish more on lists.
Chris and I went biking today. The total trip was about 16 miles, but we did take a few breaks for el bano and for playing some catch with a baseball and a frisbee--no, not at the same time, though I suggested it and I bet it would have been the awesomest game ever :P It was a good ride to get me out of my complacent, sedentary funk, but my ass certainly does hurt now.
In other more sightly news, I've managed to get a few things accomplished from my list of the previous blog entry. Here's the current list (more for my sake than yours):
My Wedding:
1. Purchase decorations for ceremony and reception at already decided online site.
2. Add MORE songs to and weed out songs from the ceremony and reception music playlists.
3. Talk to the photographer to figure out when we need to be there and if he needs any other information about us for the wedding pictures.
4. Buy some details such as: party favors, a sign in book and pen, and other little traditional details...I have no idea what, but there's always more things to spend Spend SPEND on.
5. Clean up the house in preparation for people either staying the weekend or stopping over for my bachelorette pre-party.
6. Find my birth certificate and social security card so that I can go to the county clerk and apply for a marriage license with Chris. Sort of important, hm?
What about for other people's weddings?
1. Buy party favors for Jenni's bridal shower.
2. Plan games and fun activities for Jenni's bridal shower (and later bachelorette party).
3. Make food for Jenni's bridal shower.
4. Make plans with Tricia for Jenni's and my bridal shower/bachelorette party in MN.
5. Purchase gifts for Jenni's, Elyssa's, and Jenny's weddings.
What about school?
1. FILE all of stacks upon stacks of papers that are now stuffed in two file boxes that are stacked with other junk in my dining room.
2. Plan the curriculum for and teach summer school despite the fact that I'll be taking 2 weeks off. I guess they really need me, and I'm in no position to say no.
3. Register for and take a class about web publishing so that I can help create an online school newspaper for the school next year.
Life?
1. Take Chris's mom, grandmother, and great-grandmother shopping for their dresses they will wear to our wedding.
2. Bike a lot all over the place in a lame attempt to make the bike purchase worthwhile and get in better shape.
3. Try running a bit in the mornings, if I get the ambition. Biking just seems a lot easier and I get farther.
4. Call my grandmother more often.
5. Write more, watch less TV, and finally use that teeth whitening kit. (I've been super awesome about not drinking tea or coffee for the past few weeks.)
6. Make less lists. Accomplish more on lists.
Sunday, June 10, 2007
On Changing Names
In a little over a month, I'll be changing names. The name I've had for the past 26 years, will no longer be mine. I'm still not quite sure how I feel about that. I'm a little excited, for change can be interesting, but I'll also a little nostalgic about the name passed to me from my father. For most people, it won't be a big deal at all, for they hardly think about my last name, unless they're trying to decipher me from a different Katie they know. But at work, that's a different story. Students and faculty alike know me and call me by my last name. What will it feel like to have the unfamiliar notes of a new nomenclature addressed to me?
Enough of the high talk. To business. How many days until the wedding? One day less than six weeks so...41 days. Just 41 more days. And what do I have to do within that time frame? Let's check:
1. Pick out and purchase centerpieces for the tables.
2. Pick out and purchase decorations for the ceremony and reception hall.
3. Add songs to and weed out songs from the ceremony and reception music playlists.
4. Talk to the DJ to make sure 1) he's still planning to do the wedding and 2) figure out a time to meet and discuss payment, setup, and music selections.
5. Talk to the photographer to figure out when we need to be there and if he needs any other information about us for the wedding pictures.
6. Buy some details such as: a garter, a toss bouquet, party favors, a sign in book and pen, and other little traditional details.
What about for other people's weddings?
1. Send out Jenni's bridal shower invites--thankfully they're almost completely finished.
2. Buy party favors for Jenni's bridal shower.
3. Plan games and fun activities for Jenni's bridal shower (and later bachelorette party).
4. Make food for Jenni's bridal shower.
5. Make plans with Tricia for Jenni's and my bridal shower/bachelorette party in MN.
6. Purchase gifts for Jenni's, Elyssa's, and Jenny's weddings.
What about school?
1. Finish grading for the school year.
2. Clean up my classroom and FILE all of stacks upon stacks of papers laying around my room.
3. Decide if I am absolutely positively needed to teach summer school this year, despite the fact that I will need to take 2 weeks off for my wedding and Jenni's wedding.
4. Possibly teach summer school.
5. Register for and take a class about web publishing so that I can help create an online school newspaper for the school next year.
I'm sure there are all sorts of things I'm forgetting about. And I know this is not exactly an exciting blog entry. But it certainly helps to jot things down in a list so that I can sit back and prioritize what must be done when. Alright, time for a break. I love watching streaming anime online...for free.
In a little over a month, I'll be changing names. The name I've had for the past 26 years, will no longer be mine. I'm still not quite sure how I feel about that. I'm a little excited, for change can be interesting, but I'll also a little nostalgic about the name passed to me from my father. For most people, it won't be a big deal at all, for they hardly think about my last name, unless they're trying to decipher me from a different Katie they know. But at work, that's a different story. Students and faculty alike know me and call me by my last name. What will it feel like to have the unfamiliar notes of a new nomenclature addressed to me?
Enough of the high talk. To business. How many days until the wedding? One day less than six weeks so...41 days. Just 41 more days. And what do I have to do within that time frame? Let's check:
1. Pick out and purchase centerpieces for the tables.
2. Pick out and purchase decorations for the ceremony and reception hall.
3. Add songs to and weed out songs from the ceremony and reception music playlists.
4. Talk to the DJ to make sure 1) he's still planning to do the wedding and 2) figure out a time to meet and discuss payment, setup, and music selections.
5. Talk to the photographer to figure out when we need to be there and if he needs any other information about us for the wedding pictures.
6. Buy some details such as: a garter, a toss bouquet, party favors, a sign in book and pen, and other little traditional details.
What about for other people's weddings?
1. Send out Jenni's bridal shower invites--thankfully they're almost completely finished.
2. Buy party favors for Jenni's bridal shower.
3. Plan games and fun activities for Jenni's bridal shower (and later bachelorette party).
4. Make food for Jenni's bridal shower.
5. Make plans with Tricia for Jenni's and my bridal shower/bachelorette party in MN.
6. Purchase gifts for Jenni's, Elyssa's, and Jenny's weddings.
What about school?
1. Finish grading for the school year.
2. Clean up my classroom and FILE all of stacks upon stacks of papers laying around my room.
3. Decide if I am absolutely positively needed to teach summer school this year, despite the fact that I will need to take 2 weeks off for my wedding and Jenni's wedding.
4. Possibly teach summer school.
5. Register for and take a class about web publishing so that I can help create an online school newspaper for the school next year.
I'm sure there are all sorts of things I'm forgetting about. And I know this is not exactly an exciting blog entry. But it certainly helps to jot things down in a list so that I can sit back and prioritize what must be done when. Alright, time for a break. I love watching streaming anime online...for free.
Thursday, May 31, 2007
May...be I will accomplish something
What have I been doing? Why haven't I been blogging? Here's rough outline:
*making wedding invitations--still in progress
*editing a manuscript for my boss--still in progress
*getting grades done for the quarter and semester--still in progress
*arranging other wedding details such as the registry, Chris's ring, officiant, dress alterations, bridesmaid jewelry, decor, etc.
And while doing this, my main goal has simply been to survive. So far, so good. But I'm fading fast. I need sleep, badly, but it's not going to happen any time soon.
What have I been doing? Why haven't I been blogging? Here's rough outline:
*making wedding invitations--still in progress
*editing a manuscript for my boss--still in progress
*getting grades done for the quarter and semester--still in progress
*arranging other wedding details such as the registry, Chris's ring, officiant, dress alterations, bridesmaid jewelry, decor, etc.
And while doing this, my main goal has simply been to survive. So far, so good. But I'm fading fast. I need sleep, badly, but it's not going to happen any time soon.
Saturday, April 28, 2007
Once a month just isn't enough
I know this is pretty pathetic. Looking back at my archives, I see years of quality blogging now in the last year going down the drain. It doesn't help that almost no one that originally blogged with me still blogs now. Blogging never was supposed to be a big deal. I was just doing it for fun and to keep track of things I thought about. It was really just an online journal and a way of having a good time communicating with friends far away. I suppose blogging fits more with a college lifestyle.
As for my resolutions, they're slowing coming along. I don't care to repeat any of it now, but let's just say I have a long way to go. The weather is beautiful and I haven' t been outside all day. Chris has been really down the last couple days because of issues at work. It's like a role reversal, but I'm sorry he has to go through that bullshit. It's not fun from any side of it.
Yesterday a big group of us went out for Barbara's birthday. It was nice meeting some new people, even some that share some geeky interests. OOOOH, and that reminds me. One told me about an anime website I might be interested in so I can watch Inuyasha. Hm...do I blog more or do I check it out now? As if that's a question.
I know this is pretty pathetic. Looking back at my archives, I see years of quality blogging now in the last year going down the drain. It doesn't help that almost no one that originally blogged with me still blogs now. Blogging never was supposed to be a big deal. I was just doing it for fun and to keep track of things I thought about. It was really just an online journal and a way of having a good time communicating with friends far away. I suppose blogging fits more with a college lifestyle.
As for my resolutions, they're slowing coming along. I don't care to repeat any of it now, but let's just say I have a long way to go. The weather is beautiful and I haven' t been outside all day. Chris has been really down the last couple days because of issues at work. It's like a role reversal, but I'm sorry he has to go through that bullshit. It's not fun from any side of it.
Yesterday a big group of us went out for Barbara's birthday. It was nice meeting some new people, even some that share some geeky interests. OOOOH, and that reminds me. One told me about an anime website I might be interested in so I can watch Inuyasha. Hm...do I blog more or do I check it out now? As if that's a question.
Tuesday, March 06, 2007
Progress of Resolutions...bleak
Even though I truly despise the idea of reviewing my "progress," I'm doing it anyway. Is it any better that I recognize how shittily I'm progressing? Or would it be better if I had my head up my ass? I suppose that would improve my flexibility. I love using adverbs.
The Body:
1. Work Out - Use the free gym at school at least 3-4 days a week...no. Well, the first couple weeks I could blame my minor surgery. Then intense work stress. But now...just lack of routine. That and my room has been about 90 degrees for the past couple weeks, so it hasn't exactly made me want to run down to the gym and pass out.
2. Eat Healthy - Decrease the snacks. Increase the veggies and fruit. Reduce tea and coffee consumption...eh. I've been better about the veggies and fruit. I even ate a couple apples! But the tea and coffee especially have been more difficult to shake. All in good time.
3. Use mouthwash daily and floss 2-3 times a week...halfway there. I've got the mouthwash part down. Now just to be willing to take the 5-10 minutes to floss around my stupid retainer. We'll see.
4. Maintain length and health of hair just long enough to get through the wedding and honeymoon and then...chop it, highlight it, and spike it, yo...no problem. Okay, so this goal is about as difficult and as exciting as watching grass grow.
The Mind:
1. Keep up with work - Don't let work pile up and cause late nights of avoidable stress...a little better. But I'm still behind.
2. Get the Wedding planned - Again, don't let the tasks pile up and cause stupid stress. Take it one step at a time and get everything planned out in advance... just need the cake, wedding list, invitations, and registry...and 20 other small things.
3. Stay in touch with friends and family - Doing great. As though this is a goal I would avoid.
4. Write! - Suck. I again missed an entire month so AGAIN my blog archives look dumb because there is another month missing from the past year.
5. Keep the dream - I'm still dreaming.
6. Consider grad school - Still considering.
7. Expand my musical horizons - New bands for me: Final Fantasy, Dirty Three, Lily Allen, The Prodigals, and perhaps more yet on the horizon.
The Mundane:
1. Budget - Doing better with not eating out as much, at least during the work week. Still blowing money on frivolous items now and then. But doing better overall.
2. Keep it clean - We're doing okay. Chris is much better at it than I am, but then, I do work more hours. AND the TREE IS DOWN! Can you believe it? It won't be a Memorial Day tree this year!
3. Neighbors - They're still here. And still quiet. I guess that's good.
Is there any hope for me this March? Perhaps. If not, at least we can have a good time being Irish in a little over a week. Party at our place!
Even though I truly despise the idea of reviewing my "progress," I'm doing it anyway. Is it any better that I recognize how shittily I'm progressing? Or would it be better if I had my head up my ass? I suppose that would improve my flexibility. I love using adverbs.
The Body:
1. Work Out - Use the free gym at school at least 3-4 days a week...no. Well, the first couple weeks I could blame my minor surgery. Then intense work stress. But now...just lack of routine. That and my room has been about 90 degrees for the past couple weeks, so it hasn't exactly made me want to run down to the gym and pass out.
2. Eat Healthy - Decrease the snacks. Increase the veggies and fruit. Reduce tea and coffee consumption...eh. I've been better about the veggies and fruit. I even ate a couple apples! But the tea and coffee especially have been more difficult to shake. All in good time.
3. Use mouthwash daily and floss 2-3 times a week...halfway there. I've got the mouthwash part down. Now just to be willing to take the 5-10 minutes to floss around my stupid retainer. We'll see.
4. Maintain length and health of hair just long enough to get through the wedding and honeymoon and then...chop it, highlight it, and spike it, yo...no problem. Okay, so this goal is about as difficult and as exciting as watching grass grow.
The Mind:
1. Keep up with work - Don't let work pile up and cause late nights of avoidable stress...a little better. But I'm still behind.
2. Get the Wedding planned - Again, don't let the tasks pile up and cause stupid stress. Take it one step at a time and get everything planned out in advance... just need the cake, wedding list, invitations, and registry...and 20 other small things.
3. Stay in touch with friends and family - Doing great. As though this is a goal I would avoid.
4. Write! - Suck. I again missed an entire month so AGAIN my blog archives look dumb because there is another month missing from the past year.
5. Keep the dream - I'm still dreaming.
6. Consider grad school - Still considering.
7. Expand my musical horizons - New bands for me: Final Fantasy, Dirty Three, Lily Allen, The Prodigals, and perhaps more yet on the horizon.
The Mundane:
1. Budget - Doing better with not eating out as much, at least during the work week. Still blowing money on frivolous items now and then. But doing better overall.
2. Keep it clean - We're doing okay. Chris is much better at it than I am, but then, I do work more hours. AND the TREE IS DOWN! Can you believe it? It won't be a Memorial Day tree this year!
3. Neighbors - They're still here. And still quiet. I guess that's good.
Is there any hope for me this March? Perhaps. If not, at least we can have a good time being Irish in a little over a week. Party at our place!
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
So this is the new year
And I don't feel any different. For the most part, that's true. However, I have made some resolutions this year, and thus far I've made some significant progress towards keeping those resolutions. Want to know what they are? I'm sure they're predictable (considering they're pretty much the same ones every single year).
Katie's 2007 Resolutions
The Body:
1. Work Out - Use the free gym at school at least 3-4 days a week. On other days, do some sort of exercise including: hard core house cleaning, shoveling, sex, walking, sledding, pilates, tai chi, yoga, or any other good outdoor/indoor activity.
2. Eat Healthy - Decrease the snacks. Increase the veggies and fruit. Reduce tea and coffee consumption. And two months before the wedding--no coffee, tea, or soda (time to whiten the teeth).
3. Use mouthwash daily and floss 2-3 times a week.
4. Maintain length and health of hair just long enough to get through the wedding and honeymoon and then...chop it, highlight it, and spike it, yo.
The Mind:
1. Keep up with work - Don't let work pile up and cause late nights of avoidable stress. Reduce nights spent slacking when I could be catching up or getting ahead.
2. Get the Wedding planned - Again, don't let the tasks pile up and cause stupid stress. Take it one step at a time and get everything planned out in advance.
3. Stay in touch with friends and family - If I'm caught up with work and planning, I'll have plenty of time set aside for socializing. These relationships really are what make life worth living, so cherish them.
4. Write! - Despite the fact only five people read this blog, keep on writing. Blogging for the past 5 years has been the best way to track my emotional development and significant moments of my life. Don't give up.
5. Keep the dream - I have a dream that involves crepes. I'm never going to lose it and one day I will find a way to make it come true. Next summer, I'm telling you. It's going to happen.
6. Consider grad school - This spring I will know whether I am at the same school again. Whether I am or not, grad school is in my future. I just hope it's with the school behind me to help pay for it this fall. Part time, of course.
7. Expand my musical horizons - I'm very slow at this. It takes a month for me to get to know a band and it's album and bring it into my conciousness. I need to take more chances and listen to the beauty out there.
The Mundane:
1. Budget - No question. Things are going to be tight this year. I'm a teacher because I love the work and not the money. Sometimes it's frustrating to see things so far out of my reach, but sometimes, it's worth the wait.
2. Keep it clean - This apartment is lovely. And I need to keep it that way as often as possible. It's so fun playing hostess. And it's so much better when friends have a place to sit that's not covered with school work or pretzel crumbs.
3. Neighbors - Even if they're as antisocial as possible, keep putting out the friendly hand. When they're gone, who knows what will move in, so again, cherish what you have.
There's an overview, anyway. The bigger resolutions have some more specific lists to accompany them, but that's for me to worry about. All I need from you is a smile and a thumbs up for trying. Happy New Year.
And I don't feel any different. For the most part, that's true. However, I have made some resolutions this year, and thus far I've made some significant progress towards keeping those resolutions. Want to know what they are? I'm sure they're predictable (considering they're pretty much the same ones every single year).
Katie's 2007 Resolutions
The Body:
1. Work Out - Use the free gym at school at least 3-4 days a week. On other days, do some sort of exercise including: hard core house cleaning, shoveling, sex, walking, sledding, pilates, tai chi, yoga, or any other good outdoor/indoor activity.
2. Eat Healthy - Decrease the snacks. Increase the veggies and fruit. Reduce tea and coffee consumption. And two months before the wedding--no coffee, tea, or soda (time to whiten the teeth).
3. Use mouthwash daily and floss 2-3 times a week.
4. Maintain length and health of hair just long enough to get through the wedding and honeymoon and then...chop it, highlight it, and spike it, yo.
The Mind:
1. Keep up with work - Don't let work pile up and cause late nights of avoidable stress. Reduce nights spent slacking when I could be catching up or getting ahead.
2. Get the Wedding planned - Again, don't let the tasks pile up and cause stupid stress. Take it one step at a time and get everything planned out in advance.
3. Stay in touch with friends and family - If I'm caught up with work and planning, I'll have plenty of time set aside for socializing. These relationships really are what make life worth living, so cherish them.
4. Write! - Despite the fact only five people read this blog, keep on writing. Blogging for the past 5 years has been the best way to track my emotional development and significant moments of my life. Don't give up.
5. Keep the dream - I have a dream that involves crepes. I'm never going to lose it and one day I will find a way to make it come true. Next summer, I'm telling you. It's going to happen.
6. Consider grad school - This spring I will know whether I am at the same school again. Whether I am or not, grad school is in my future. I just hope it's with the school behind me to help pay for it this fall. Part time, of course.
7. Expand my musical horizons - I'm very slow at this. It takes a month for me to get to know a band and it's album and bring it into my conciousness. I need to take more chances and listen to the beauty out there.
The Mundane:
1. Budget - No question. Things are going to be tight this year. I'm a teacher because I love the work and not the money. Sometimes it's frustrating to see things so far out of my reach, but sometimes, it's worth the wait.
2. Keep it clean - This apartment is lovely. And I need to keep it that way as often as possible. It's so fun playing hostess. And it's so much better when friends have a place to sit that's not covered with school work or pretzel crumbs.
3. Neighbors - Even if they're as antisocial as possible, keep putting out the friendly hand. When they're gone, who knows what will move in, so again, cherish what you have.
There's an overview, anyway. The bigger resolutions have some more specific lists to accompany them, but that's for me to worry about. All I need from you is a smile and a thumbs up for trying. Happy New Year.
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
"O" 7 We Will Watch Them Fall...and then Rise
A sort of nod to Prince (though I realize he says "All seven" not "Oh seven"...but it can sound like that...even if it doesn't make sense). ANYWAY, I thought that I may as well get on the bandwagon with the rest of the Minnesotans. Though I can't say that singing "Purple Rain" at midnight was my favorite choice of possible New Year's Eve songs. Definitely not. But the kiss was sweet and nearly PG-13 rated.
With the fall of 06 and the rise of 07, it is time for the honored tradition of listing the crap that has happened in the past year, good and bad, tragic and lovely. The year 2006 certainly had its share of moments.
Top Ten Worst Moments of 2006
10. Getting knocked down on the dance floor at Liz's wedding reception.
9. Losing my favorite winter hat.
8. Being told I can't play DDR in the house due to the huge noise and banging it makes for the downstairs neighbors.
7. Teaching summer school which was a lot more work and stress than I had thought it would be, all while I was applying for jobs and looking for apartments.
6. Stressful days and nights at my current school trying to catch up on work for students who don't appreciate it.
5. Unsuccessful interviews and filling out numerous applications for a new job.
4. Feeling the loss of friendships and self-esteem.
3. Moving Grandma into the nursing home, seeing her decline in mental and physical health.
2. Moving to the new apartment on the hottest day of the year (and cleaning the old apartment the next day).
1. Being denied a contract renewal for my job at the middle school that I believed was the job of my dreams.
Top Ten Best Moments of 2006
10. Buying a wedding dress (and trendy new eyeglasses).
9. Winter Break.
8. Sweet parties: 3rd Annual Bastille Day, Birthday/Engagement Party, Anti-Valentine's Day, Halloween, New Year's Eve.
7. Finding the necklace Chris bought for me when I thought it was lost forever.
6. Liz's wedding celebration in WI Rapids.
5. Awesome concerts: Architecture in Helsinki, Clap Your Hands Say Yeah, The Decemberists.
4. Chicago vacation with Chris.
3. Getting a good job and the apartment we really wanted.
2. Trip to Ireland with my mom.
1. Becoming engaged.
I'm sure I'm missing some great moments and horrible ones, but you get the idea. I have a lot of work to do to fulfill my resolutions this year. "What are they?" you ask. How about I list them in my next blog, okay?
A sort of nod to Prince (though I realize he says "All seven" not "Oh seven"...but it can sound like that...even if it doesn't make sense). ANYWAY, I thought that I may as well get on the bandwagon with the rest of the Minnesotans. Though I can't say that singing "Purple Rain" at midnight was my favorite choice of possible New Year's Eve songs. Definitely not. But the kiss was sweet and nearly PG-13 rated.
With the fall of 06 and the rise of 07, it is time for the honored tradition of listing the crap that has happened in the past year, good and bad, tragic and lovely. The year 2006 certainly had its share of moments.
Top Ten Worst Moments of 2006
10. Getting knocked down on the dance floor at Liz's wedding reception.
9. Losing my favorite winter hat.
8. Being told I can't play DDR in the house due to the huge noise and banging it makes for the downstairs neighbors.
7. Teaching summer school which was a lot more work and stress than I had thought it would be, all while I was applying for jobs and looking for apartments.
6. Stressful days and nights at my current school trying to catch up on work for students who don't appreciate it.
5. Unsuccessful interviews and filling out numerous applications for a new job.
4. Feeling the loss of friendships and self-esteem.
3. Moving Grandma into the nursing home, seeing her decline in mental and physical health.
2. Moving to the new apartment on the hottest day of the year (and cleaning the old apartment the next day).
1. Being denied a contract renewal for my job at the middle school that I believed was the job of my dreams.
Top Ten Best Moments of 2006
10. Buying a wedding dress (and trendy new eyeglasses).
9. Winter Break.
8. Sweet parties: 3rd Annual Bastille Day, Birthday/Engagement Party, Anti-Valentine's Day, Halloween, New Year's Eve.
7. Finding the necklace Chris bought for me when I thought it was lost forever.
6. Liz's wedding celebration in WI Rapids.
5. Awesome concerts: Architecture in Helsinki, Clap Your Hands Say Yeah, The Decemberists.
4. Chicago vacation with Chris.
3. Getting a good job and the apartment we really wanted.
2. Trip to Ireland with my mom.
1. Becoming engaged.
I'm sure I'm missing some great moments and horrible ones, but you get the idea. I have a lot of work to do to fulfill my resolutions this year. "What are they?" you ask. How about I list them in my next blog, okay?
