When I moved to Washington, DC in 1999 I was worried about keeping in touch with everyone that I was leaving behind in my hometown. I decided to start sending out a "weekly update" to everyone detailing my mis-adventures. I was diligent about sending the messages and continued for several years. Then I quit.
I started sending my weekly update messages again in January 2005 and continued through July. I stopped because it was becoming the task was becoming more of a chore than a joy. Then a few months later I began this blog. I kept this secret for several months because I was tweaking it. Once it was fairly complete I told a few friends about it and now it has spread to the majority of my Seattle friends and a few family members.
In an effort to keep all of this information together in one place I am going to be posting my weekly update messages from the past. If you prescribe to this blog via an RSS feed it may clog up the feed for a week or so. In advance, I apologize.
Also, I am added labels to each of my previous posts so that I can have thing better categorized. This too may clog up RSS feeds. And again, my apologies.
I think the dust will settle in about a week and will let you all know when I am done.
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
Thank God it's NOT Tuesday
It's Wednesday which only means that Tuesday is over with! Tuesday rolls around once a week and turns out to be my least favorite and yet favorite day of the week. I know that is confusing, allow me to explain.
Tuesday is *meeting day* at work. All of the recurring meetings for my team happen on Tuesdays which means that the bulk of the afternoon is spent in the conference room. I used to enjoy this time because it was a chance to connect and share ideas with my co-workers. However over the last few months the focus of the meeting has changed and now sitting through the meetings is pure pain and torture. Yesterday I spent 3 hours and 15 minutes in the conference room and was so annoyed, exhausted and drained by the time I came out that I couldn't even explain to a co-worker why it was so utterly annoying. The good news is that I am not the only one who feels this way and yesterday everyone interjected their commentary about their disdain for Tuesdays. I have hope that in the future my Tuesday's may not be so bad.
The reason that I love Tuesdays... Gilmore Girls! I went home last night and made one of my favorite dinners, poured myself a glass of wine and sat like a total bum on my couch and watched Gilmore Girls. It is the only night this week that I can sit and be a total bum on the couch and I enjoyed every minute of it.
So maybe I have to endure the torture of Tuesday meetings to truly enjoy my *bum time* on Tuesday evening.
==========
Today is National Coming Out Day. I didn't know this until I heard about it on my favorite radio station on the way to work. I didn't know there was a National Coming Out Day but I really like the idea. Evidently it has been an annual event (on October 11) since 1994 and is sponsored by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation. There is a theme every year and the theme selected for this year is "Talk About It" because every time learn more about one another we get closer to equality.
==========
In college someone once told me that the official colors for *Coming Out* were purple and green. I wonder if that is true?
==========
After weeks of experimenting and trying different plug-ins for Audioscrobber I have finally found one that works with my iPod! Until yesterday none of the songs that I listened to on my iPod were transferring to my LastFM page and now they are. I downloaded the jscrob plug-in several months ago and thought that it didn't work so I removed it from my computer. I tried it again last night and it does work but I didn't configure it properly the first time. After you finish installing the software it prompt you to read the "read-me" file which I didn't do until last night and finally realized the mistake that I was making. I configured it properly and it works, imagine that! I so happy! :-)
Tuesday is *meeting day* at work. All of the recurring meetings for my team happen on Tuesdays which means that the bulk of the afternoon is spent in the conference room. I used to enjoy this time because it was a chance to connect and share ideas with my co-workers. However over the last few months the focus of the meeting has changed and now sitting through the meetings is pure pain and torture. Yesterday I spent 3 hours and 15 minutes in the conference room and was so annoyed, exhausted and drained by the time I came out that I couldn't even explain to a co-worker why it was so utterly annoying. The good news is that I am not the only one who feels this way and yesterday everyone interjected their commentary about their disdain for Tuesdays. I have hope that in the future my Tuesday's may not be so bad.
The reason that I love Tuesdays... Gilmore Girls! I went home last night and made one of my favorite dinners, poured myself a glass of wine and sat like a total bum on my couch and watched Gilmore Girls. It is the only night this week that I can sit and be a total bum on the couch and I enjoyed every minute of it.
So maybe I have to endure the torture of Tuesday meetings to truly enjoy my *bum time* on Tuesday evening.
==========
Today is National Coming Out Day. I didn't know this until I heard about it on my favorite radio station on the way to work. I didn't know there was a National Coming Out Day but I really like the idea. Evidently it has been an annual event (on October 11) since 1994 and is sponsored by the Human Rights Campaign Foundation. There is a theme every year and the theme selected for this year is "Talk About It" because every time learn more about one another we get closer to equality.
==========
In college someone once told me that the official colors for *Coming Out* were purple and green. I wonder if that is true?
==========
After weeks of experimenting and trying different plug-ins for Audioscrobber I have finally found one that works with my iPod! Until yesterday none of the songs that I listened to on my iPod were transferring to my LastFM page and now they are. I downloaded the jscrob plug-in several months ago and thought that it didn't work so I removed it from my computer. I tried it again last night and it does work but I didn't configure it properly the first time. After you finish installing the software it prompt you to read the "read-me" file which I didn't do until last night and finally realized the mistake that I was making. I configured it properly and it works, imagine that! I so happy! :-)
Tuesday, October 10, 2006
Blogger Beta
I converted my website to the new Beta version of Blogger last night. You may also note that I changed the colors and some basics on the page. I have had plans for quite some time to add some new and fun elements and the new software is going to make that a whole lot easier. So watch for some new things! And please be patient while the remodel is taking place.
In addition, one thing to note. I read on the Blogger news page that the Beta version is successfully loading on Internet Explorer and Firefox but not consistently on Safari. If you have trouble loading the page, please let me know.
In addition, one thing to note. I read on the Blogger news page that the Beta version is successfully loading on Internet Explorer and Firefox but not consistently on Safari. If you have trouble loading the page, please let me know.
Big Smile
The latest pic from the *cutest nephew in the world* file! I love that he loves to smile and laugh! :-D
Monday, October 09, 2006
Monday Morning Catch-Up
I have been reminded by a few of my regular readers that I have been a bit of a slacker on posting lately and they are right. I think it’s been the combination of battling a wicked head and chest cold, starting a new semester and being totally overwhelmed at work that has left me with little imagination and initiative to post anything.
It’s not because I don’t think about it. There are always several points in each and every day when I think… “I should post that!” but alas I haven’t.
So to those who have been disappointed the last 2 weeks, please accept my sincere apologies and I promise to get back in the groove starting right now…
==========
I had a great weekend. The weather is absolutely perfect right now. The days are warm, sometimes rainy and sometimes sunny and the nights are cool. I have broken out a few of my sweaters. The leaves are turning bright shades everywhere you look. Oh, how I love this time of year.
I took a walk around Queen Anne yesterday instead of going to the gym. I love my neighborhood. I passed several people out working in their yards and move than a few homes that were proudly displaying jack-o-lanterns and Halloween lights.
=========
Today is Columbus Day. Everyone I know is working today. Besides the employees of the federal government does anybody else get Columbus Day off? On second thought I guess the bankers are off today too. (
It’s kind of an odd holiday. Nobody really celebrates Columbus Day (except New Yorkers) and nearly everyone works but there is no mail delivery and you can’t make a deposit.
I think one of the DJ’s on my favorite radio station said it best this morning, “It’s not a real holiday if the meters aren’t free.”
==========
I saw a story on the evening news that made me sad, Tower Records is closing. The parent company has been purchased by a consolidation company and they are liquidating all of the assets of the company. They have credited iTunes and other online music services for their decreased sales.
I have frequented the Tower Records in my neighborhood numerous times over the past year. The staff is friendly and helpful and I have always found what I wanted. I am sad that they are closing but somewhat excited to shop the sale.
==========
I am feeling like the SDOT and anyone else who has the power to stop traffic has something against me personally. It seems that everywhere I try to go is under construction.
The last two weekends they have been diverting the traffic from the Mercer Street exit so that they can lay the tracks for the South Lake Union Trolley. I have not been hung up in the mess but have had to take longer route to avoid it.
There is a new building going up on Taylor Ave between Roy and Mercer. I have been told that the ground floor is going to be a Whole Foods and then the floors above will be condos. For the last 3 weeks they have had Taylor Ave reduced to one way and forcing all of the southbound traffic west and around the block. Going around the block is a pain because I always get hung up at the 2 stoplights. I was patient the first few times because I realized that the construction crews needed the extra space but now it’s getting really old. This morning it took me an additional 8 minutes to take the detour. I found an article complaining about the construction obstructing when turning onto Mercer so I am not the only one that is complaining.
Also getting to and from the gym has proven to be more and more of a challenge because of a cleanup project on Westlake Ave. They are cleaning up a huge spill that happened 25 years ago and will have it dug up until January of 2007.
It’s all incredibly frustrating.
==========
The suction cup holder for my razor decided to fail me again. I am battling it on a daily basis again. Ugh!
It’s not because I don’t think about it. There are always several points in each and every day when I think… “I should post that!” but alas I haven’t.
So to those who have been disappointed the last 2 weeks, please accept my sincere apologies and I promise to get back in the groove starting right now…
==========
I had a great weekend. The weather is absolutely perfect right now. The days are warm, sometimes rainy and sometimes sunny and the nights are cool. I have broken out a few of my sweaters. The leaves are turning bright shades everywhere you look. Oh, how I love this time of year.
I took a walk around Queen Anne yesterday instead of going to the gym. I love my neighborhood. I passed several people out working in their yards and move than a few homes that were proudly displaying jack-o-lanterns and Halloween lights.
=========
Today is Columbus Day. Everyone I know is working today. Besides the employees of the federal government does anybody else get Columbus Day off? On second thought I guess the bankers are off today too. (
It’s kind of an odd holiday. Nobody really celebrates Columbus Day (except New Yorkers) and nearly everyone works but there is no mail delivery and you can’t make a deposit.
I think one of the DJ’s on my favorite radio station said it best this morning, “It’s not a real holiday if the meters aren’t free.”
==========
I saw a story on the evening news that made me sad, Tower Records is closing. The parent company has been purchased by a consolidation company and they are liquidating all of the assets of the company. They have credited iTunes and other online music services for their decreased sales.
I have frequented the Tower Records in my neighborhood numerous times over the past year. The staff is friendly and helpful and I have always found what I wanted. I am sad that they are closing but somewhat excited to shop the sale.
==========
I am feeling like the SDOT and anyone else who has the power to stop traffic has something against me personally. It seems that everywhere I try to go is under construction.
The last two weekends they have been diverting the traffic from the Mercer Street exit so that they can lay the tracks for the South Lake Union Trolley. I have not been hung up in the mess but have had to take longer route to avoid it.
There is a new building going up on Taylor Ave between Roy and Mercer. I have been told that the ground floor is going to be a Whole Foods and then the floors above will be condos. For the last 3 weeks they have had Taylor Ave reduced to one way and forcing all of the southbound traffic west and around the block. Going around the block is a pain because I always get hung up at the 2 stoplights. I was patient the first few times because I realized that the construction crews needed the extra space but now it’s getting really old. This morning it took me an additional 8 minutes to take the detour. I found an article complaining about the construction obstructing when turning onto Mercer so I am not the only one that is complaining.
Also getting to and from the gym has proven to be more and more of a challenge because of a cleanup project on Westlake Ave. They are cleaning up a huge spill that happened 25 years ago and will have it dug up until January of 2007.
It’s all incredibly frustrating.
==========
The suction cup holder for my razor decided to fail me again. I am battling it on a daily basis again. Ugh!
Saturday, October 07, 2006
Friday, October 06, 2006
Song with a new meaning!
From ABBA’s Chiquitita which I have heard a million times but was different when I heard it tonight when H told me to listen to it! ;)
Chiquitita, you and I know
How the heartaches come and they go and the scars they’re leaving
You’ll be dancing once again and the pain will end
You will have no time for grieving
Chiquitita, you and I cry
But the sun is still in the sky and shining above you
Let me hear you sing once more like you did before
Sing a new song, chiquitita
Try once more like you did before
Sing a new song, chiquitita
Try once more like you did before
Sing a new song, chiquitita
Chiquitita, you and I know
How the heartaches come and they go and the scars they’re leaving
You’ll be dancing once again and the pain will end
You will have no time for grieving
Chiquitita, you and I cry
But the sun is still in the sky and shining above you
Let me hear you sing once more like you did before
Sing a new song, chiquitita
Try once more like you did before
Sing a new song, chiquitita
Try once more like you did before
Sing a new song, chiquitita
Tuesday, October 03, 2006
It's a Girl!
My friend Nikki had a baby girl this morning. She and baby are well and resting. Here are the details.
Karielle Lynne Carlson
Karielle Lynne CarlsonOctober 3, 2006 at 6:51 a.m.
8 lbs. 7 oz.
Welcome to the world little Karielle! Congratulations Nikki and Matt!
Monday, October 02, 2006
Do you Belong in NY or LA?
No suprise that I am more NYC than LA!
| You Belong in New York |
 You're a girl on the go, and LA's laid back lifestyle isn't really your thing. You prefer a city that never sleeps, and people as ambitious as you are. Cultured and street smart, you can truly appreciate everything New York has to offer. |
Monday Morning Mania
All of the members of my team are out of the office today. This means that the responsibilities of the entire department fall on my shoulders. In the first 80 minutes of the day today I dealt with a customer complain, and out of box failure, four purchase orders and someone needing additional information about preventive maintenance. I finally had enough time to run and grab a cup of coffee at 9:20 a.m. and to my delight one of my co-workers had brought in a box of donuts. Forget the oatmeal, I am having a donut.
As a kid I disliked Old-Fashioned donuts. As an adult I think that they are fabulous when dipped in coffee.
I had a pretty low-key weekend as I am still fighting this horrible head and chest cold. I canceled my plans on Friday night and crawled into bed early. Saturday afternoon and evening I attended an Oktoberfest party at the home of a friend. The beer was awesome (Harvest Moon Festbier), the brats were grilled and smoked to perfection, the scenery was exquisite complete with purple mountains majesty and before I knew it 6 hours had gone by. Everyone had planned to camp out so that they didn’t have to drive but I didn’t think I was up for sleeping outdoors with my cold, so we opted to head back to Seattle. Sunday I was a complete bum and really tried to knock the cold with 2 naps sandwiched between 2 really good nights of sleep and it helped. A few more days and I think that I will be back to normal.
The other nice thing about hanging out at home this weekend was that I finally had a chance to listen and absorb some new music. On September 12th two of my favorite bands introduced new albums. I purchased both but had not really had a chance to listen to them. I had heard several of the new songs from the Carbon Leaf album (Love, Loss, Hope, Repeat) when I saw them in concert in August. The album is complete with clever lyrics and catchy tunes. I don’t love it like their previous album Indian Summer yet, but I think it has the potential. The other album is the new one from the Barenaked Ladies titled Barenaked Ladies are Me which was exactly what I expected it to be. I had heard a few of the songs on the radio and the album lives up to the hype for sure.
The other album that I am really enjoying right now is the debut album from New London Fire. I heard the song “We Don’t Bleed” on a podcast while at the gym a couple of weeks ago. I loved the song. It was like a flashback to my senior year in high school because their sound reminds me of many of the bands that I loved back then. They are touring right now.
The nice thing about being alone in the department today is that I get to listen to my music! So I am enjoying a new mix I created yesterday with songs from the above mentioned along with favorites from Snow Patrol, Death Cab for Cutie, Eastmountainsouth, John Mayer, KT Tunstall and of course, Vienna Teng.
Speaking of Vienna Teng, one of my friends attended the Madeline Peyroux concert at The Moore Theatre on Friday night. Vienna Teng opened for her and I told my friend not to miss the opening act. We spoke this morning and not surprisingly Vienna put on an amazing show and has won another fan!
I guess that is enough random manic information for this coffee break. Have a good day!
As a kid I disliked Old-Fashioned donuts. As an adult I think that they are fabulous when dipped in coffee.
I had a pretty low-key weekend as I am still fighting this horrible head and chest cold. I canceled my plans on Friday night and crawled into bed early. Saturday afternoon and evening I attended an Oktoberfest party at the home of a friend. The beer was awesome (Harvest Moon Festbier), the brats were grilled and smoked to perfection, the scenery was exquisite complete with purple mountains majesty and before I knew it 6 hours had gone by. Everyone had planned to camp out so that they didn’t have to drive but I didn’t think I was up for sleeping outdoors with my cold, so we opted to head back to Seattle. Sunday I was a complete bum and really tried to knock the cold with 2 naps sandwiched between 2 really good nights of sleep and it helped. A few more days and I think that I will be back to normal.
The other nice thing about hanging out at home this weekend was that I finally had a chance to listen and absorb some new music. On September 12th two of my favorite bands introduced new albums. I purchased both but had not really had a chance to listen to them. I had heard several of the new songs from the Carbon Leaf album (Love, Loss, Hope, Repeat) when I saw them in concert in August. The album is complete with clever lyrics and catchy tunes. I don’t love it like their previous album Indian Summer yet, but I think it has the potential. The other album is the new one from the Barenaked Ladies titled Barenaked Ladies are Me which was exactly what I expected it to be. I had heard a few of the songs on the radio and the album lives up to the hype for sure.
The other album that I am really enjoying right now is the debut album from New London Fire. I heard the song “We Don’t Bleed” on a podcast while at the gym a couple of weeks ago. I loved the song. It was like a flashback to my senior year in high school because their sound reminds me of many of the bands that I loved back then. They are touring right now.
The nice thing about being alone in the department today is that I get to listen to my music! So I am enjoying a new mix I created yesterday with songs from the above mentioned along with favorites from Snow Patrol, Death Cab for Cutie, Eastmountainsouth, John Mayer, KT Tunstall and of course, Vienna Teng.
Speaking of Vienna Teng, one of my friends attended the Madeline Peyroux concert at The Moore Theatre on Friday night. Vienna Teng opened for her and I told my friend not to miss the opening act. We spoke this morning and not surprisingly Vienna put on an amazing show and has won another fan!
I guess that is enough random manic information for this coffee break. Have a good day!
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