I haven't made up my mind on who I am voting for in the Democratic primary yet. Years ago, I had a dream of Hillary running, but when I saw Obama speak at the Democratic Convention in the last election, I was amazed by his poise and grace. Now, here we are - I think the dems have an "embarrassment of riches." I would be perfectly happy with either person as our President. I am also continually excited by the fact that the two leading contenders in the Democratic party are a woman and a black man. Fantastic.
With that being said, I did contribute to Obama's campaign back in like October or November last year. I also signed up for the NCforObama listserv to keep an eye on what was going on in our state. Sometimes, I regret the latter. The bad thing (and also the great) thing about Obama's campaign is how grassroots it has been run. Individual groups work on their own to go door to door, post signs, etc. It is really getting people motivated. But the problem is, you get a lot of people in there who can also do damage. Sure, this is a problem in any political campaign, but I just want to describe my personal experience with this.
So, I get e-mails once or twice daily on the listserv that describes different meet up groups, postering, call banking, events, etc. It is great to see what people are doing. But then you get folks sending out their predictions on what the opposition's campaign will do next and how "we shouldn't stand for this" or blah blah blah. Today, this was the first sentence in one of the e-mails:
As far as I can tell, there seems to be a very high likelihood that the Clinton campaign will drop some kind of "Obama Hates America" smear between the next debate and the PA primary.
You have to be kidding me. Give Hillary some credit. You really think she would pull a swiftboat and say "Obama Hates America"? Hillary knows that Obama is real competition and has the respect and admiration of as many people in the United States as she does. If she calls him un-American or an America-hater, she ostracizes a huge chunk of the American populous. I am no political strategist, but I can pretty much guarantee that calling Obama a "hater of America" is not high on the list of strategies for the Clinton campaign.
This isn't the first e-mail I have received off the listserv I've rolled my eyes at. I think this one was just the straw that broke the camel's back. I replied back - to the whole listserv - and said that asinine comments like that do sway people in their thoughts about an Obama administration. I have no idea where my vote is going at this moment, and if I keep getting e-mails that are rash, not thought out and just silly, I step one more foot away from an Obama vote.
I am sure the people who replied back to me with a passion for patriotism and the hope for a brighter future think I am full of crap. But I felt it was necessary to at least remind people that what they send out, other people read. Their words reflect on a larger segment of society, and people need to be more responsible with their words. Even if not part of the "official" campaign, the face of those posting on these lists can and has affected a voter. If you asked me today, Hillary has my vote. That may change tomorrow, but my interaction with Obama supporters has turned me off enough that I don't see him in the light I used to anymore. And no, these people I have heard from do not stand for EVERYONE, but it's the whole butterfly effect thing. One person can affect one vote.
Just my 2 cents. ::steps off soapbox::
PS - I also know I am WAY too thin skinned for politics or even political debate. I take things to personally. So, if you flame me in my comments section, I will delete you, FYI :-)
4.11.2008
4.10.2008
A wedding for $5000 - you can do it
My Mom sent me a link to a great article about doing a wedding for $5K. (http://blogs.moneycentral.msn.com/smartspending/archive/2008/04/09/a-fabulous-wedding-for-under-5-000.aspx) The only problem is, the article gave no REAL suggestions on how you can stick with that budget. So, here, I will take a couple minutes to hash out how my fiance and I are approaching and planning a wedding for 75-100 people on a budget of $5K (or hopefully less when all is said and done).
1) Get creative with ceremony location - your ceremony does not need to be in a church that charges $2000 or an art gallery that costs $5000. Check your city's chamber of commerce website and find out about alternative sites. If you have a university nearby, they will have a lot of venues that you can rent. Theatres, smaller art galleries and public facilities often rent for very reasonable prices. Some state parks even have event facilities to rent for low prices. Try to find a place that already includes chairs - chair rental, while normally not too expensive, adds to the bottom line when all is said and done. Try to find a place that has nice decoration built in so you don't have to concert a blank space to your dream facility. Outdoor weddings can be very low cost, but the need for a rain plan can sometimes be troublesome. Just keep that in mind.
2) Get creative with reception location. You may not need a hotel ballroom. If you MUST have the ballroom reception, unfortunately, the only tip I can give is to NOT have your wedding on a Saturday. Some places have lower rates for Thursday or Friday nights. But, that may be hard for guests. What about a favorite restaurant? You never know if you can have a reception someplace until you ask. I have heard of massive parties on the roofs of parking garages where the couple just rented tents. It's unique and different. Look at the places you frequent often and try to picture them in a different light - then ask if you can hold a reception there!
3) Menu. Do you really need to serve lobster and filet mignon? I mean, really - is the full 5 course meal actually necessary? If you HAVE to have an extravagant meal, do it for the rehearsal and just serve it to your bridal party and parents. For the reception, you don't have to have food that costs $60 a plate. Some surefire ways to save money are a) do an early wedding where you can serve brunch - brunch foods are much cheaper than dinner foods; b) same thing with lunch - have the wedding at 10am with a lunch afterwards - much cheaper; c) have to have the wedding in the evening? Serve heavy hors d'oeuvres! People can and will get full off a wide assortment of snacks - from fruit and cheese to crabcakes and bruschetta. Make the reception more about mingling and dancing and less about sitting at a table. This also takes out the need for table cards, escort cards, overpriced centerpieces and all that stuff that the wedding "industry" dictates you have. One caveat on saving money in the food category: don't cook yourself - there are plenty of places out there that can cater for a reasonable price. Scour around and ask questions. Tell them how much you will pay by the head and see what they can give you. You'll be surprised.
4) Decoration. Simple does not mean cheap. Simple is elegant. You do not need a 5 foot, 300 piece rose centerpiece on the altar of the church or on each table. A nice candle and some greenery can go a long way. Get creative - you don't need expensive centerpieces. If you are dead set on something more elaborate, look around for second hand wedding supply sales online. Benefit from the bride who paid too much for things she now needs to unload. The Knot has a message board for brides selling old wedding supplies. Craigslist is a great place to look, too. You can rent colorful table linens that are tasteful and add some spark to your venue. Does a church really need $2000 worth of flowers? Probably not. Like stated before, try and find a venue that has a nice look already so you don't need to add much to it.
5) Flowers. THE FARMER'S MARKET. Get what is in season and local. It's environmentally friendly and adds a nice touch of local flair. We found a flower grower that is selling us local, fresh flowers at $35 a bucket. AN ENTIRE BUCKET. We will put them together, and we will pay probably less for ALL of our flowers than some people pay for a bouquet alone. One grower even offered to grow exactly what I wanted!! Calla lillies, purple roses and rare orchids are not cheap and have to be shipped thousands of miles. When you think about it, aren't MOST flowers pretty? Do you have to have a special one flown in from Holland or Hawaii?
6) The Bar. If you can find a place that will allow you to bring in your own alcohol, you've hit the jackpot. Hit Trader Joe's and buy 10 cases of wine, get a keg of your favorite beer and stock up on liquor. Or better yet, encourage a friend to throw an engagement/pre-wedding party for you where the price of admission is a bottle of liquor for the couple. You may think it sounds tacky, but if you do it as a "stock the bar" party, you will be amazed at the response. If you can't bring in your own liquor, keep the bar simple. Wine, beer, maybe one or two signature drinks. The rest the guests have to pony up for. If you want a full open bar, have the full bar open for only 1-2 hours rather than the whole time. And as a good friend told me, "An open bar for the whole wedding? Even Grandma gets trashed." That's not a pretty picture. Restricting alcohol can be a good thing.
7) Doing it Yourself. Find invites you love and see if you can recreate them. Have a graphic designer friend? Have them come up with a design and then get the printed and cut at Kinkos. No need to pay $5 an invite. Get creative with this folks - the invite people just want you to think you are too uncreative to come up with your own invite. Show 'em who's boss. Save the dates? e-mail everyone. Come up with a cute electronic image and e-mail it to people for a save the date. It saves paper and cost. For those family members who don't use e-mail, call and tell them or just wait for the invites you will send out. It will be fine.
8) All the little things. Bubbles? Almonds in a bag? A tin with your face and wedding date on it? It will get thrown away. I hate to tell ya, folks, but there are very few people out there who will keep that $3 tin that had almonds in it out on their coffee table. God forbid you think butterflies or a dove release will add a nice touch - the butterflies often arrive dead, and the fact you could possibly releasing a non native insect into your environment could wreak havoc you have never thought about. You do not need escort cards or menu cards. People will know what they are getting to eat when they see the food - really, do you need to warn them ahead of time?
9) Music. iPod.
10) Cake. Ask around - do not make on on your own unless you do it professionally. To keep costs low, check with grocery stores - they normally have great cake for a minimal cost. And that baker may have an adoration for wedding cakes that normally are not displayed in the store's bakery case. Krogers not your style? Ask people you work with or vendors for rental items. They often know of bakers who work out of their homes or just on a smaller scale than the lady with the super cool website. You do not need to pay $10 a slice for a cake that will taste like crap.
11) Ask for help. You probably have a wedding party - ask them to help. If you're making things, there are probably some crafty people in your group. Enlist their creativity and get their ideas. If you ask for help, people are very often willing to give it!
Those are the things that I came up with right away. If you have suggestions, post them as a comment. If you have a question, ask it, and I will see if I have any advice. I'm not an expert, but I am on a budget and am surrounded by some pretty creative people. The main thing is - the wedding industry is a billion dollar business. A big business wants you to spend money on things you don't actually need but things they make you think you need. If you think creatively, you can have an awesome wedding that won't kill your budget. Make it yours, not the industry's prescription.
1) Get creative with ceremony location - your ceremony does not need to be in a church that charges $2000 or an art gallery that costs $5000. Check your city's chamber of commerce website and find out about alternative sites. If you have a university nearby, they will have a lot of venues that you can rent. Theatres, smaller art galleries and public facilities often rent for very reasonable prices. Some state parks even have event facilities to rent for low prices. Try to find a place that already includes chairs - chair rental, while normally not too expensive, adds to the bottom line when all is said and done. Try to find a place that has nice decoration built in so you don't have to concert a blank space to your dream facility. Outdoor weddings can be very low cost, but the need for a rain plan can sometimes be troublesome. Just keep that in mind.
2) Get creative with reception location. You may not need a hotel ballroom. If you MUST have the ballroom reception, unfortunately, the only tip I can give is to NOT have your wedding on a Saturday. Some places have lower rates for Thursday or Friday nights. But, that may be hard for guests. What about a favorite restaurant? You never know if you can have a reception someplace until you ask. I have heard of massive parties on the roofs of parking garages where the couple just rented tents. It's unique and different. Look at the places you frequent often and try to picture them in a different light - then ask if you can hold a reception there!
3) Menu. Do you really need to serve lobster and filet mignon? I mean, really - is the full 5 course meal actually necessary? If you HAVE to have an extravagant meal, do it for the rehearsal and just serve it to your bridal party and parents. For the reception, you don't have to have food that costs $60 a plate. Some surefire ways to save money are a) do an early wedding where you can serve brunch - brunch foods are much cheaper than dinner foods; b) same thing with lunch - have the wedding at 10am with a lunch afterwards - much cheaper; c) have to have the wedding in the evening? Serve heavy hors d'oeuvres! People can and will get full off a wide assortment of snacks - from fruit and cheese to crabcakes and bruschetta. Make the reception more about mingling and dancing and less about sitting at a table. This also takes out the need for table cards, escort cards, overpriced centerpieces and all that stuff that the wedding "industry" dictates you have. One caveat on saving money in the food category: don't cook yourself - there are plenty of places out there that can cater for a reasonable price. Scour around and ask questions. Tell them how much you will pay by the head and see what they can give you. You'll be surprised.
4) Decoration. Simple does not mean cheap. Simple is elegant. You do not need a 5 foot, 300 piece rose centerpiece on the altar of the church or on each table. A nice candle and some greenery can go a long way. Get creative - you don't need expensive centerpieces. If you are dead set on something more elaborate, look around for second hand wedding supply sales online. Benefit from the bride who paid too much for things she now needs to unload. The Knot has a message board for brides selling old wedding supplies. Craigslist is a great place to look, too. You can rent colorful table linens that are tasteful and add some spark to your venue. Does a church really need $2000 worth of flowers? Probably not. Like stated before, try and find a venue that has a nice look already so you don't need to add much to it.
5) Flowers. THE FARMER'S MARKET. Get what is in season and local. It's environmentally friendly and adds a nice touch of local flair. We found a flower grower that is selling us local, fresh flowers at $35 a bucket. AN ENTIRE BUCKET. We will put them together, and we will pay probably less for ALL of our flowers than some people pay for a bouquet alone. One grower even offered to grow exactly what I wanted!! Calla lillies, purple roses and rare orchids are not cheap and have to be shipped thousands of miles. When you think about it, aren't MOST flowers pretty? Do you have to have a special one flown in from Holland or Hawaii?
6) The Bar. If you can find a place that will allow you to bring in your own alcohol, you've hit the jackpot. Hit Trader Joe's and buy 10 cases of wine, get a keg of your favorite beer and stock up on liquor. Or better yet, encourage a friend to throw an engagement/pre-wedding party for you where the price of admission is a bottle of liquor for the couple. You may think it sounds tacky, but if you do it as a "stock the bar" party, you will be amazed at the response. If you can't bring in your own liquor, keep the bar simple. Wine, beer, maybe one or two signature drinks. The rest the guests have to pony up for. If you want a full open bar, have the full bar open for only 1-2 hours rather than the whole time. And as a good friend told me, "An open bar for the whole wedding? Even Grandma gets trashed." That's not a pretty picture. Restricting alcohol can be a good thing.
7) Doing it Yourself. Find invites you love and see if you can recreate them. Have a graphic designer friend? Have them come up with a design and then get the printed and cut at Kinkos. No need to pay $5 an invite. Get creative with this folks - the invite people just want you to think you are too uncreative to come up with your own invite. Show 'em who's boss. Save the dates? e-mail everyone. Come up with a cute electronic image and e-mail it to people for a save the date. It saves paper and cost. For those family members who don't use e-mail, call and tell them or just wait for the invites you will send out. It will be fine.
8) All the little things. Bubbles? Almonds in a bag? A tin with your face and wedding date on it? It will get thrown away. I hate to tell ya, folks, but there are very few people out there who will keep that $3 tin that had almonds in it out on their coffee table. God forbid you think butterflies or a dove release will add a nice touch - the butterflies often arrive dead, and the fact you could possibly releasing a non native insect into your environment could wreak havoc you have never thought about. You do not need escort cards or menu cards. People will know what they are getting to eat when they see the food - really, do you need to warn them ahead of time?
9) Music. iPod.
10) Cake. Ask around - do not make on on your own unless you do it professionally. To keep costs low, check with grocery stores - they normally have great cake for a minimal cost. And that baker may have an adoration for wedding cakes that normally are not displayed in the store's bakery case. Krogers not your style? Ask people you work with or vendors for rental items. They often know of bakers who work out of their homes or just on a smaller scale than the lady with the super cool website. You do not need to pay $10 a slice for a cake that will taste like crap.
11) Ask for help. You probably have a wedding party - ask them to help. If you're making things, there are probably some crafty people in your group. Enlist their creativity and get their ideas. If you ask for help, people are very often willing to give it!
Those are the things that I came up with right away. If you have suggestions, post them as a comment. If you have a question, ask it, and I will see if I have any advice. I'm not an expert, but I am on a budget and am surrounded by some pretty creative people. The main thing is - the wedding industry is a billion dollar business. A big business wants you to spend money on things you don't actually need but things they make you think you need. If you think creatively, you can have an awesome wedding that won't kill your budget. Make it yours, not the industry's prescription.
4.08.2008
It's ladies night, and I feel alright.....
Well, last Friday was ladies night anyway - and here are a couple photos to prove it :-)
Meredith, me, Tammy and Lauren at the East End Martini Bar, Chapel Hill
Me, Tammy and Meredith - on a break from dancing
Meredith, me, Tammy and Lauren at the East End Martini Bar, Chapel Hill
Me, Tammy and Meredith - on a break from dancing4.07.2008
Weekend Update
Can I just say how odd it feels to not have this final project hanging over my head? It is actually quite strange. Mike was in Chicago from Thursday - Saturday, so I found myself cuddled up on the couch with Buddy Saturday afternoon watching "The Lives of Others" (fantastic movie - thanks for the recommendation, Rod!), and I didn't even feel guilty about it! I got up that morning, cleaned up the house, slayed the laundry monster, hit the Farmers Market to get eggs (more on that in a moment), and hit the gym for the completion of my first week of 5K training (so far, so good!). I accomplished everything I needed to do for the day by about 1pm. How fantastic it is to have my life back!!!!
To kick off this free time, Tammy, Lauren, Meredith and I headed out to Chapel Hill Friday night to celebrate all the milestones in our lives - Tammy and Efren will soon be off to Vandy, Lauren was celebrating her new found freedom, Meredith was celebrating her new career opportunities, and I was celebrating the end of my degree program! It was a great night. We spent the whole evening at the East End Martini Bar as a torrential rain storm came through and prevented us from hopping around. But the pineapple martinis and great dance music were enough to make the night great. Add to it the company of 3 of the most beautiful and fantastic ladies from D-town, and anyone would have a great time!
I am also happy to report that Saturday mornings are back to being spent at the Farmers Market! The Durham Farmers Market officially opened up the season this past Saturday, and the place was packed - even with some rainy weather. I managed to pick up a dozen eggs (half for Mike and I, half for Meredith) and a beautiful head of buttercrunch lettuce. I didn't bring more cash, or I would have gone home with a lot more. I am excited, too, because the market will now be open on Wednesdays from 3:30-6:30 which will be fantastic for those mid week needs. I can just walk down there before I head home in the evening. Welcome back, market!!
This weekend was also fruitful for wedding stuff. Sunday, Meredith, Lauren and I hustled out to Burlington to hunt for bridesmaid dresses. We ended up finding a great one, which I think will work fantastic. The price is great, and the style is wonderful. Once Cookie approves it, we will put in the order!!! That should hopefully be this week.
After the bridal shop, we hit Garden Ridge Pottery in Greensboro to get table decorations - simple is the key, and I think we got some nice stuff. This whole wedding thing is really coming together - fantastic!
This weekend is off to Hickory for the beer festival, then next week is my exit interview. Week after that is Raleigh Beer Fest, so the month of April is momentous and exciting! I will hopefully have some pics of random events to share with you soon!
To kick off this free time, Tammy, Lauren, Meredith and I headed out to Chapel Hill Friday night to celebrate all the milestones in our lives - Tammy and Efren will soon be off to Vandy, Lauren was celebrating her new found freedom, Meredith was celebrating her new career opportunities, and I was celebrating the end of my degree program! It was a great night. We spent the whole evening at the East End Martini Bar as a torrential rain storm came through and prevented us from hopping around. But the pineapple martinis and great dance music were enough to make the night great. Add to it the company of 3 of the most beautiful and fantastic ladies from D-town, and anyone would have a great time!
I am also happy to report that Saturday mornings are back to being spent at the Farmers Market! The Durham Farmers Market officially opened up the season this past Saturday, and the place was packed - even with some rainy weather. I managed to pick up a dozen eggs (half for Mike and I, half for Meredith) and a beautiful head of buttercrunch lettuce. I didn't bring more cash, or I would have gone home with a lot more. I am excited, too, because the market will now be open on Wednesdays from 3:30-6:30 which will be fantastic for those mid week needs. I can just walk down there before I head home in the evening. Welcome back, market!!
This weekend was also fruitful for wedding stuff. Sunday, Meredith, Lauren and I hustled out to Burlington to hunt for bridesmaid dresses. We ended up finding a great one, which I think will work fantastic. The price is great, and the style is wonderful. Once Cookie approves it, we will put in the order!!! That should hopefully be this week.
After the bridal shop, we hit Garden Ridge Pottery in Greensboro to get table decorations - simple is the key, and I think we got some nice stuff. This whole wedding thing is really coming together - fantastic!
This weekend is off to Hickory for the beer festival, then next week is my exit interview. Week after that is Raleigh Beer Fest, so the month of April is momentous and exciting! I will hopefully have some pics of random events to share with you soon!
4.04.2008
Battlestar Galactica Season 4 - STARTS TONIGHT
YAY! It has been absolutely forever since we have been blessed with a new episode of Battlestar. Season Four starts tonight, and I am super psyched. But being the great fiance I am, I am going to wait until Mike returns from Chicago tomorrow to watch the episode. Our Saturday night may be spent with pizza and some cylons. Oh yeah......
4.03.2008
Oh yeah - guess what time it is????
IT IS CELEBRATION TIME. PARTY TIME. SIGH OF RELIEF TIME.
I am happy to report that less than 3 minutes ago, I sent off the final draft of my final project for my Masters. It is in the hands of my program director now. If all goes well, on April 18 at my exit interview, I will get a pat on the back and clearance for graduation.
I cannot believe this - I never thought this moment would get here. I am absolutely elated. WOO HOO!!!!
Here's to you, little piggies!!!!!!!
If you actually care to read the project, post a comment and I will e-mail it to you. It's 60 pages about the factory farming of pigs - and I will warn you ahead of time, it is not the happiest thing in the world to read. Just be forewarned!!!!
I am happy to report that less than 3 minutes ago, I sent off the final draft of my final project for my Masters. It is in the hands of my program director now. If all goes well, on April 18 at my exit interview, I will get a pat on the back and clearance for graduation.
I cannot believe this - I never thought this moment would get here. I am absolutely elated. WOO HOO!!!!
Here's to you, little piggies!!!!!!!
If you actually care to read the project, post a comment and I will e-mail it to you. It's 60 pages about the factory farming of pigs - and I will warn you ahead of time, it is not the happiest thing in the world to read. Just be forewarned!!!!
4.01.2008
Next item on the "To-Do" List - another 5K
The last time I did a 5K was over 3 years ago. I ran the Susan Komen Race for the Cure in Raleigh. As mentioned some time ago in the post about the passing of Lista Yarbrough, I have been inspired to run again this year. Lista's passing really struck me - she was so young and so full of life - yet, breast cancer still took her from this world. Therefore, in June of this year, I will again be running the Race for the Cure. I will set up a team soon and start asking for donations - so beware!! Therefore, on June 14, my Dad's birthday, I will hit the pavement and hopefully make a decent showing at the race (decent showing meaning I run for 95% of the race and actually finish).
With that being said, it is time to train. Although I run a few times a week as it is, the most I normally run is about a mile and a half, two miles if I am feeling saucy. To make it the full 3.2 miles, I need to work my way up to doing so. So, starting yesterday, I am now on a "Couch to 5K" program. I made my own spreadsheet based off the recommended system at www.coolrunning.com. Even though the couch is not really my starting point, a regimented system that gives me a workout for the next 9 weeks will be very helpful in getting my endurance up where it needs to be. Yesterday's workout resulted in a full 2.5 mile workout, and whew - it kicked my butt a bit. As my loyal readers, I ask that you question me about this - ask if I am keeping up with it, etc. I really want to run this race and not make a fool out of myself (as Lauren and Meredith, both experienced runners, will probably do the race, too), so please encourage me!!
(Here's a screenshot of my running program - if you want the full spreadsheet, just let me know, and I will be happy to send it to you! You can also see a larger version of the spreadsheet by clicking on the picture above.)
With that being said, it is time to train. Although I run a few times a week as it is, the most I normally run is about a mile and a half, two miles if I am feeling saucy. To make it the full 3.2 miles, I need to work my way up to doing so. So, starting yesterday, I am now on a "Couch to 5K" program. I made my own spreadsheet based off the recommended system at www.coolrunning.com. Even though the couch is not really my starting point, a regimented system that gives me a workout for the next 9 weeks will be very helpful in getting my endurance up where it needs to be. Yesterday's workout resulted in a full 2.5 mile workout, and whew - it kicked my butt a bit. As my loyal readers, I ask that you question me about this - ask if I am keeping up with it, etc. I really want to run this race and not make a fool out of myself (as Lauren and Meredith, both experienced runners, will probably do the race, too), so please encourage me!!
(Here's a screenshot of my running program - if you want the full spreadsheet, just let me know, and I will be happy to send it to you! You can also see a larger version of the spreadsheet by clicking on the picture above.)
3.31.2008
It's like Christmas twice in one month!!
As you all know, Beerfest is an important time of year for myself and my closest friends. This year, we all waited with our fingers poised above the buttons on our mice, waiting for 12 noon to strike on Wednesday, March 26. My posse managed to get their tickets to the Raleigh Beerfest on April 26. And thank goodness for that. By the end of the afternoon, tickets were already sold out. We have been holding this day on our calendars since the date was released to the public last year!
Now, to my wondrous surprise, Mike mentioned to me that a big group of his buddies from Davidson are planning a get together in mid April - April 12 to be exact. Did I want to go? Sure - I haven't met a lot of the Davidson friends he talks so highly about, and this seemed like a great opportunity. Wait - but what will we be doing? Going to another beer festival?? HICKORY HOPS? YES! Count me in!!!
Yes, folks - that is two Beerfests in one month. I am beyond excited. On April 12, I will be meeting many of Mike's dear Davidson friends and trying many beers at the same time. Then, exactly two weeks later we will partake in Raleigh Beerfest. It truly is a great time of the year.
April is for celebrating - Lauren has a new life ahead of her and the impending excitement of finding a new love, Meredith is embarking on a new path to personal fulfillment and social change, and I will be done with school and ready to go full on into wedding planning! April is truly a month to celebrate.
WELCOME, SPRING!
Now, to my wondrous surprise, Mike mentioned to me that a big group of his buddies from Davidson are planning a get together in mid April - April 12 to be exact. Did I want to go? Sure - I haven't met a lot of the Davidson friends he talks so highly about, and this seemed like a great opportunity. Wait - but what will we be doing? Going to another beer festival?? HICKORY HOPS? YES! Count me in!!!
Yes, folks - that is two Beerfests in one month. I am beyond excited. On April 12, I will be meeting many of Mike's dear Davidson friends and trying many beers at the same time. Then, exactly two weeks later we will partake in Raleigh Beerfest. It truly is a great time of the year.
April is for celebrating - Lauren has a new life ahead of her and the impending excitement of finding a new love, Meredith is embarking on a new path to personal fulfillment and social change, and I will be done with school and ready to go full on into wedding planning! April is truly a month to celebrate.
WELCOME, SPRING!
3.27.2008
Daily Affirmation
As so many people close to me are going through tough times right now, I post the following. Often misattributed to Nelson Mandela, the quote below actually comes from a writer by the name of Maryanne Williamson. I have this quote on a plaque and have read it every day of my life for the past three years. It currently hangs above my computer at work.
May it give you some strength today, too.
Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate.
Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.
It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us.
We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and fabulous?
Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God.
Your playing small doesn't serve the world.
There's nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do.
We are born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us.
It's not just in some of us, it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.
As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.
May it give you some strength today, too.
Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate.
Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.
It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us.
We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and fabulous?
Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God.
Your playing small doesn't serve the world.
There's nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do.
We are born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us.
It's not just in some of us, it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.
As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.
3.25.2008
3.24.2008
3.18.2008
I know, I know....
...this post will again be subpar. I've got too much going on and too little time to discuss it all. But here's a quick rundown:
1) The visit with Mom was fantastic. I got a beautiful wedding dress this weekend - yay! And unfortunately, I will not be posting photos as a) my future husband sometimes reads the blog and b) I need to work on my upper body a bit before I am happy with plastering the web with dress photos. So, there. But let's just say that my bridesmaids all adore the dress and my Mom cried when she saw me in the thing. We're golden. Beyond the dress, Mom enjoyed seeing all the venues, meeting Ms. Meredith (who she had not met before), and spending quality time with the Bradys. A great trip - productive and fun.
2) Bridesmaid dresses are a different beast altogether - we are still figuring that one out.
3) I just found out today that my project adviser is happy enough with the project at this stage to allow me to continue working on it for a completion this semester. So, looks like I will be graduating this May! SWEET. I won't count ALL my chickens before the eggs hatch, as things *could* change, but right now it looks pretty good...
4) St. Paddy's Day + the James Joyce = awesome.
5) Beerfest tickets are $40 this year. FORTY DOLLARS. I'll pay it, but damn, I am NOT happy about it. Tickets go on sale next week.
6) Jimmy Buffet is playing in Raleigh this summer. FANTASTIC! WOO! I have been waiting for this for a while.
7) We get to go to New Orleans for a wedding this May. Also very awesome - two very cool friends getting hitched AND it's in an awesome city.
8) Cookie has my old job - and she leaves for South Africa next week. I am SO very excited for her!
That's it for now folks - I have to run!
1) The visit with Mom was fantastic. I got a beautiful wedding dress this weekend - yay! And unfortunately, I will not be posting photos as a) my future husband sometimes reads the blog and b) I need to work on my upper body a bit before I am happy with plastering the web with dress photos. So, there. But let's just say that my bridesmaids all adore the dress and my Mom cried when she saw me in the thing. We're golden. Beyond the dress, Mom enjoyed seeing all the venues, meeting Ms. Meredith (who she had not met before), and spending quality time with the Bradys. A great trip - productive and fun.
2) Bridesmaid dresses are a different beast altogether - we are still figuring that one out.
3) I just found out today that my project adviser is happy enough with the project at this stage to allow me to continue working on it for a completion this semester. So, looks like I will be graduating this May! SWEET. I won't count ALL my chickens before the eggs hatch, as things *could* change, but right now it looks pretty good...
4) St. Paddy's Day + the James Joyce = awesome.
5) Beerfest tickets are $40 this year. FORTY DOLLARS. I'll pay it, but damn, I am NOT happy about it. Tickets go on sale next week.
6) Jimmy Buffet is playing in Raleigh this summer. FANTASTIC! WOO! I have been waiting for this for a while.
7) We get to go to New Orleans for a wedding this May. Also very awesome - two very cool friends getting hitched AND it's in an awesome city.
8) Cookie has my old job - and she leaves for South Africa next week. I am SO very excited for her!
That's it for now folks - I have to run!
3.13.2008
Yet another quick and fleeting update...
Hi, everyone - again, my apologies. Life has been a bit hectic (in good ways), so I haven't found much time to post here. My Mom is en route to Durham as we speak (she should be somewhere over the Smokey Mountains right now), and I will pick her up shortly before lunch time. This weekend is WEDDING DRESS SHOPPING!!! Woo hoo!!! This weekend, my Mom and all my bridesmaids will be subjecting ourselves to a certain "bridal mart" experience in the hopes of finding an appropriate dress. We are all really looking forward to the trip.
After Mom's departure on Sunday, I will be bunkering down in the library to complete the second round edits to my Masters project. I have a deadline of Sunday night to turn in the next draft. Here's to hoping that my adviser will like the edits and agree I can move forward with a May graduation. If she gives the thumbs down, a summer grad I will be!!!
Will be in touch soon, loyal readers...
After Mom's departure on Sunday, I will be bunkering down in the library to complete the second round edits to my Masters project. I have a deadline of Sunday night to turn in the next draft. Here's to hoping that my adviser will like the edits and agree I can move forward with a May graduation. If she gives the thumbs down, a summer grad I will be!!!
Will be in touch soon, loyal readers...
3.07.2008
Needville Arson Case - The Conclusion
The young man who set fire to my old high school was tried as a juvenile this week and was sentenced to 10 years of probation. While I think he probably should have had to serve a bit of time, I am glad that the court system did not try him as an adult. If you want more information, here's the story from The Fort Bend Herald:
http://www.herald-coaster.com/articles/2008/03/06/news/top_story/topstory.txt
http://www.herald-coaster.com/articles/2008/03/06/news/top_story/topstory.txt
3.04.2008
Help Break the Chains
You have all heard me mention the Coalition to Unchain Dogs before. They had a benefit concert last year that was awesome, and on March 29, representatives from the group will be participating in the Great Human Race in Durham, NC. If you would like to contribute, just click HERE to access Meredith's donation page. She works really hard for this group - every weekend, let me tell ya. She would love your support, and this group is doing amazing work. If you want to see what they do, watch the video below. It's just fantastic! (and you can see Meredith building fences in her blue hat and Coalition shirt!!!)
3.03.2008
First Draft Turned In
I am happy to report that on Sunday, March 2 at about 12:40pm, I e-mailed the first full draft of my Masters project off to my adviser. Although I was elated at the time, I am now full of dread on receiving my edits back. It could either be" great first start - let's make these changes" or "what on earth were you thinking? this will take a full year to fix." While I am guessing it will not be as extreme as the second option, I know the edits will be extensive. I just want some assurance that YES I will be able to finish this up and graduate in May. I am SO ready to be done with this. I want to concentrate on wedding planning and read fun books and watch movies and cook great dinners in the evening. I don't want to spend any more evenings in the library! I am SO done with school!!!!!
Anyway, I will keep you posted. And keep your fingers crossed for me!
Anyway, I will keep you posted. And keep your fingers crossed for me!
2.29.2008
Wedding Announcement!
Mike and I are working on putting together a website that has all the wedding details, but it isn't quite ready to go at this point. Therefore, I am going to use this forum to announce that today, formally, my bridesmaids all gave their formal acceptance. Yay. Thanks to a gift certificate Miss Laurenita had for a free lunch for 4 at Piedmont in Durham (and her willingness to use it for this occasion), I had a chance to sit down formally with all three of my lovely ladies for a wonderful wedding planning lunch. Many of my readers know these ladies, but just in case you do not have the pleasure of interacting with them every day, they are:
The always charming Miss Lauren
The sexy mama Miss Meredith
And last, bit definitely not least,
my darling Miss Cookie
The always charming Miss Lauren
The sexy mama Miss Meredith
And last, bit definitely not least,
my darling Miss Cookie
And do you not LOVE the fact that I was able to find a picture of each one of them making a kissy face????
2.28.2008
Just a quick update
Hi, everyone - no long post today, but if all goes to plan, I should be able to return to fairly regular blogging sometime in the near future. I am now coming into work as early as possible most days so I can try and spend some extended evenings in the library. I have been meeting my buddy Tim at the library on Wednesdays (sans this week) from about 3-8:30pm for the past couple of weeks, and this week, I will be spending 3:30-8 at the library on Thursday and Friday. If need be, I will spend Saturday morning in the library. My goal is to send off the first full draft of my masters project by Saturday evening. I have already handed over the first half, and to good review from my adviser. Hopefully she will like the second half, too. Once she reviews the whole thing, I am sure I will have a series of rewrites, but right now it looks like I am on track to finish. GRADUATION, HERE I COME!!!
2.24.2008
PSA: Don't drink and skate
Last night, Mike and I, along with our out of town visitors Phoebe, Coddy and Ed, went to a birthday party for our good friend Jeff. Jeff, along his buddy King, often throw massive parties around Durham. Last night's festivities were in honor of Jeff's birthday, along with a few girls who I don't know. Anyway, here's the kicker. The party was at a roller skating rink. And the party was BYOB. You read that right - drinking and rollerskating. Let's just say that today I hurt. I took two big spills near the end of the evening. I may have cracked my tailbone (oh it hurts), and I have a bruise on my left wrist that is about 2.5 inches long and an inch wide. From what I have heard from a few others, they are a bit sore today, too. Take a bunch of people in their late twenties, put them on skates, and tell them they can bring their own alcohol. Only from the party mavens Jeff and King. But it was awesome. Absolutely awesome. Everyone looked so happy - it was a chance to be a grown up and a kid at the same time. Going around that rink at full speed was absolutely liberating. But hitting the puddle of Bud Light going around the corner then busting your ass was not so wonderful.
The whole point of this: drinking and skating may be fun at the time, but the next day, you will regret your actions, kids :-)
2.22.2008
My evening as a teacher
Last night I had the opportunity to teach a class at Duke. My adviser is teaching a class called "Animals and Ethics" this semester, and she invited me to do a presentation on hog farming in North Carolina. I did a presentation for a class project back in 2004 (I believe) on the topic, and since then I have updated it and changed information to make it more relevant for my masters work. I gave the updated presentation for the first time last summer for a group of Duke students and faculty heading out to visit a local farm, Cane Creek Farm in Mebane. We started out with my presentation, a short clip from Earthlings, and a viewing of The Meatrix. After a tour of the farm, we had a catered BBQ lunch of pork from the farm we visited (I didn't imbibe, but several on the tour did).
Anyway, last night I presented the most recent version of the presentation, along with some of the supplemental information I am using in my paper. The class went really well - there were a lot of questions and some interesting observations. It was also rejuvenating to talk about the topic with people and hear how interested they were to learn more. I needed that - especially since the writing process is getting rather tough. After the class, several students came up and asked for my e-mail address, as they were considering studying the topic further for their end of semester papers.
The last person to talk to me was an undergrad woman who introduced herself and said she had attended the talk I gave last summer. She then told me that after that after that day, she hasn't eaten meat since. WOW! It was a pretty cool feeling. It wasn't just me that got her to that point, but it was pretty cool to hear that in some way, I may have helped someone decide to make the switch to vegetarianism. I'm not out to "recruit" people, but I do like to think that when I talk about this stuff, people will internalize it and at least start to ask more questions and be more conscious about the food world around them. It was an excellently profound moment.
Last night in the class, a student asked me what I want to do to end factory farming - I said that I can't end it - we all have to choose to make that a reality. People need to at least reduce their consumption of meat and when they do purchase it, shop responsibly and don't buy from factory farm providers. If all goes well, maybe a few students in the class heard the message and will shift from Smithfield pork to Cane Creek or Fickle Creek. I can only hope anyway!
Anyway, last night I presented the most recent version of the presentation, along with some of the supplemental information I am using in my paper. The class went really well - there were a lot of questions and some interesting observations. It was also rejuvenating to talk about the topic with people and hear how interested they were to learn more. I needed that - especially since the writing process is getting rather tough. After the class, several students came up and asked for my e-mail address, as they were considering studying the topic further for their end of semester papers.
The last person to talk to me was an undergrad woman who introduced herself and said she had attended the talk I gave last summer. She then told me that after that after that day, she hasn't eaten meat since. WOW! It was a pretty cool feeling. It wasn't just me that got her to that point, but it was pretty cool to hear that in some way, I may have helped someone decide to make the switch to vegetarianism. I'm not out to "recruit" people, but I do like to think that when I talk about this stuff, people will internalize it and at least start to ask more questions and be more conscious about the food world around them. It was an excellently profound moment.
Last night in the class, a student asked me what I want to do to end factory farming - I said that I can't end it - we all have to choose to make that a reality. People need to at least reduce their consumption of meat and when they do purchase it, shop responsibly and don't buy from factory farm providers. If all goes well, maybe a few students in the class heard the message and will shift from Smithfield pork to Cane Creek or Fickle Creek. I can only hope anyway!
2.21.2008
I am happy to announce......
... that Mike and I officially have a wedding date and location! It has been a huge struggle over the past month to lock down a location that would not break the bank but still have A/C and the ability to hold 100 or more people. Today though, we were able to secure a room on Duke's East Campus for the evening of August 2. To say we are thrilled is an understatement. A link for a wedding webpage is coming soon!!
Amazing Video
My adviser sent this to me this morning, and all I can say is WOW. The animals are the pets of a homeless man in downtown Santa Barbara, CA. There are several other videos of the man and his pets on YouTube. Absolutely amazing!
2.19.2008
Going into work this morning
For some strange reason, I had the urge for a $5 cup of coffee this morning. There’s a Starbucks in the American Tobacco District near my office, so I decided I would stop in and get a cup of mocha joe and a breakfast pastry. As I stood in line, I noticed a woman picking up her coffee. I wasn’t the only one who noticed her – everyone in the place did. She was about 6 feet tall, blonde, and thin. She wore 3 inch heels with a perfectly tailored camel colored wool bias cut skirt. Her jacked looked like something from Neiman’s – it was frilly, but still wool, cut perfect to her frame, and the pinnacle of winter fashion. She wore dark sunglasses (in the building), and she sauntered off to her office, looking at no one who looked at her, after receiving the cup of coffee she coached the barista to make.
I looked down at my Levi’s, my
As I pulled into the parking lot behind my office building, I saw a homeless man pulling an old suitcase down the sidewalk behind my building. It was cold this morning. He probably slept in the cold or just left the shelter down the street. I got my stuff together and suddenly felt guilty for spending $5 on a cup of coffee and a danish. The man behind my building should have the $5 cup of coffee – but he went around the corner too fast. I didn’t see where he went. So, I went up to my office and drank my coffee – which wasn’t very good. In fact, I’m craving a cup of the stuff we usually make in the office. And the danish was stale. For $5. What a rip.
2.16.2008
Voting Facts for NC
The North Carolina Primaries are coming up in May, so to get you ready, here are some facts and general information about voting in NC. This copied directly from an e-mail for NC for Obama.
Need to register or re-register: Print out a registration form and mail it to your county board of election http://www.ncdp.org/register
Find your polling place (or make sure your registration is accurate): http://www.sboe.state.nc.us
What if you've moved since you last voted? Then you need to re-register at your new address. More info here: http://www.sboe.state.nc.us
Registering voters: At no charge you can get blank voter registration forms from your local Board of Elections. Find your local board here: http://www.sboe.state.nc.us
What's the deadline to register in NC? The deadline is technically 25 days before an election. However, now you can still register in NC if you miss the deadline (April 11th for the primary). You must go to an early voting site (in the two weeks before an election), register with proper identification, and vote immediately. This is known as same day registration. However, you can not register to vote on Election Day (May 6th). So essentially, the deadline to register is now May 3rd, which is the last day of early voting. More info here: http://ncdp.org/sdr
Can independents and Republicans vote for Obama in NC's primary? Yes and No. Independents (called unaffiliated in NC) can vote for Obama by requesting a Democratic ballot when they vote. Registered Republicans cannot request a Democratic ballot. So tell your "R" friends and family they must re-register by April 11th if they want to vote Obama in NC! (They cannot change their party affiliation after April 11, even through the same day registration program).
Other facts about voting in NC: It is state law that 17-year-olds who will turn 18 by Nov. 4th (and therefore be eligible to vote in the General Election) may register and vote in the primary. Also, many ex-felons do not realize that they can register to vote in NC (in some states they are disenfranchised forever). They must have completed all the terms of their sentence and be finished with parole before they re-register. College students can register at either their school residence or other home residence but they must chose only one (preferably wherever they'll be on election day).
2.14.2008
Missing Pit in Durham
For my Durham readers, please see below. I do not know these folks personally, but the information was passed on from a friend. If you have any information, please call the number on the flyer! Thank you!
2.11.2008
Oh Crap.
I just found out from my final project adviser today that I need to turn in a full first draft of my final project by March 1, although February 23 is preferable. I have 6 pages done. I have a lot of writing to do in a very short amount of time. You will have to excuse me if I am absent for a while. Yikes.
2.08.2008
Veggie Life in the Triangle
This week's Independent Weekly focusing on vegetarian dining in the Triangle. I haven't flipped through it yet, but I look forward to doing so this weekend. I had to copy and paste the Indy's reason for doing the issue - I just love the exchange they had with the waitress. It's amazing what people think is veggie and what is not (or what is vegan and not)!
Slim pickins' 02/06/08
At a lunch meeting in a Durham restaurant a few weeks ago, Indy Editor Lisa Sorg and I sat down to plan this week's Dish issue. Our waitress caught Lisa's attention with a yummy, vegetable-filled description of the soup du jour. A longtime vegetarian, Lisa knew to ask: "Is it vegetarian?"Vegetarians'
Soup not based on chicken broth
(this is actually hard to find at most places!!)
Beans without lard or ham hocks
(I must admit, this is one of my 'don't ask, don't tell' moments at Mexican restaurants - although I am sure that slight nausea I feel after a meal may have something to do with refried beans. I am trying to get better about requesting black beans - which in most Mex restaurants are made meat free - but it is tough to make the switch)
A variety of sandwiches featuring something other than portobello mushrooms
(may I also add that we also don't always want eggplant at an Italian restaurant, either)
House-made veggie burgers cooked on a meat-free grill (please please please stop serving Boca burgers - gross)
Side orders fried in veggie oil
(again, I usually don't ask...)
Salads without bacon bits
(bacon bits are the least concern - next time you go to a restaurant, see how many salads - besides the house salad - that aren't topped with meat. when did that switch happen???)
Slim pickins' 02/06/08
At a lunch meeting in a Durham restaurant a few weeks ago, Indy Editor Lisa Sorg and I sat down to plan this week's Dish issue. Our waitress caught Lisa's attention with a yummy, vegetable-filled description of the soup du jour. A longtime vegetarian, Lisa knew to ask: "Is it vegetarian?"
"Oh yes," the waitress assured us. "It's made with chicken stock, though, so it's vegetarian but not vegan."
Exchanges like that are one of the reasons we decided to examine local dining options for vegetarians, vegans and even those carnivores among us who occasionally crave a meatless meal.
Our diagnosis: We could use a few more options. More veggie-only restaurants. A wider variety of regular restaurants that offer truly "veggie-friendly" fare. Waitstaffs that know the vocabulary. Chefs who embrace the challenge of non-animal-based cuisine.
—Jennifer Strom
I also must agree with the "wish list" below: - my comments are in yellow
Vegetarians'
Wish List Café
(A restaurant that doesn't actually exist in the Triangle)
TODAY'S SPECIALS
(this is actually hard to find at most places!!)
(I must admit, this is one of my 'don't ask, don't tell' moments at Mexican restaurants - although I am sure that slight nausea I feel after a meal may have something to do with refried beans. I am trying to get better about requesting black beans - which in most Mex restaurants are made meat free - but it is tough to make the switch)
(may I also add that we also don't always want eggplant at an Italian restaurant, either)
(again, I usually don't ask...)
(bacon bits are the least concern - next time you go to a restaurant, see how many salads - besides the house salad - that aren't topped with meat. when did that switch happen???)
2.07.2008
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Well, Happy Chinese New Year! February 7, 2008 begins the Year of the Rat. Go celebrate.
2.04.2008
You said WHAT?
Mike and I were shopping in Target the other day when Mike stopped in the middle of the aisle and said, "uh - what are they saying?" He was pointing to a display in Target's photo department advertising Kodak photo printing. What is this married couple saying to us? Should I be offended??
1.30.2008
Off on an adventure
Well, I don't know how much of an adventure it will be, but it will be interesting nonetheless. I am off at noon today to attend the North Carolina Main Street 2008 Conference in Rocky Mount, NC. Self-Help is one of the sponsors of the conference, so I will be tabling, attending seminars, etc about downtown revitalization in North Carolina. It should be a lot of fun. I will touch base with everyone when I get back!!
1.29.2008
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!
...to the James Joyce Irish Pub in Durham. Last night was the official 10 year anniversary of the Joyce, and Mike and I were grateful to be included in a private party for the "regulars" last night. I don't know if we should brag about that or take it as a sign we need to go to the Joyce less...
Anyway, congratulations to 10 years of being a great place to be with friends, have a few drinks, play some trivia and meet new people.
Mike and I have a lot of fond memories at the Joyce - our Sunday night chats sitting at the bar to catch up with each other and discuss what was going on in our lives (before we dated), weekly trivia with so many of our friends (when we were dating), and even our engagement itself took place there.
We aren't the only ones who reserve a special place in our hearts for the Joyce. That was very evident last night with all the familiar faces that made their way out to share in the celebration. Congratulations, Jason and Fergus! Here's to another 10 great years...
Anyway, congratulations to 10 years of being a great place to be with friends, have a few drinks, play some trivia and meet new people.
Mike and I have a lot of fond memories at the Joyce - our Sunday night chats sitting at the bar to catch up with each other and discuss what was going on in our lives (before we dated), weekly trivia with so many of our friends (when we were dating), and even our engagement itself took place there.
We aren't the only ones who reserve a special place in our hearts for the Joyce. That was very evident last night with all the familiar faces that made their way out to share in the celebration. Congratulations, Jason and Fergus! Here's to another 10 great years...
1.23.2008
Please go vote for Scout!
I think you have to register for the site, but if you wouldn't mind, go log in and give a vote for my boy Scout as "Cutest Pet in the Triangle"!!! http://share.triangle.com/node/12606
What to say, what to say
Sorry I haven't posted in a while - I have been at a loss for words. I also feel somewhat guilty if I write an extensive amount here while my Masters project remains at 1.5 single spaced typed pages.
A few updates -
There was a recent loss I would like to take the time to mention and talk through. My former real estate agent, Lista Yarbrough, passed away last week at the age 0f 34 (click on her name to read the obituary). Nathaniel e-mailed me with the news, and I was struck rather hard. I had lost touch with Lista over the past few years. The last words I said to her were probably even not that kind, I was antsy about selling the house N and I used to own. Lista was such a kind soul - I remember that when we closed on our house, it was her last day of chemo that morning - she took it as a good sign; and so did we. In 2003, she managed to lure me into running in the Susan Komen 5K race in Raleigh and joining her team. It was my first (and only 5K) to this point (click HERE - I was #383 - hee hee; it was less than 10 minutes a mile - not bad!!). I am making it a goal to run again this year and raise funds under Lista's name. When her hair started growing back after the chemo, she got it cut into the style shown in her obituary - it was a shock to her to have short and sassy hair, as it was always long and styled ever so purposefully before the chemo. But after the haircut, I think many of us agreed she was the white Halle Berry with her awesome cut. As trite as it may sound, I always think of here when I consider chopping off my hair - "Could I pull it off as well as Lista?" The answer is always no - I'm not as brave as she was.
My heart goes out to her husband Kevin and the rest of her family - I cannot imagine what they must be dealing with right now. Losing Lista was a great loss to not only her family, but many other people in the Durham community as well.
There is probably more to say - Mike and I have started wedding planning, but I will mention that in more detail when there is more to say - we are super excited and ready to do this. We wish we could do it tomorrow, but we really want to throw one heck of a party. The invite list grows a bit every day - at some point we will have to say "NO MORE!" But, I will let you know how that goes. (Let's just say we are well over 100 people now, and that's pretty much just locals and family.)
Okay folks, I need to hit the gym and get to training. Let's see if I can get under 9 minutes a mile this time around...
A few updates -
There was a recent loss I would like to take the time to mention and talk through. My former real estate agent, Lista Yarbrough, passed away last week at the age 0f 34 (click on her name to read the obituary). Nathaniel e-mailed me with the news, and I was struck rather hard. I had lost touch with Lista over the past few years. The last words I said to her were probably even not that kind, I was antsy about selling the house N and I used to own. Lista was such a kind soul - I remember that when we closed on our house, it was her last day of chemo that morning - she took it as a good sign; and so did we. In 2003, she managed to lure me into running in the Susan Komen 5K race in Raleigh and joining her team. It was my first (and only 5K) to this point (click HERE - I was #383 - hee hee; it was less than 10 minutes a mile - not bad!!). I am making it a goal to run again this year and raise funds under Lista's name. When her hair started growing back after the chemo, she got it cut into the style shown in her obituary - it was a shock to her to have short and sassy hair, as it was always long and styled ever so purposefully before the chemo. But after the haircut, I think many of us agreed she was the white Halle Berry with her awesome cut. As trite as it may sound, I always think of here when I consider chopping off my hair - "Could I pull it off as well as Lista?" The answer is always no - I'm not as brave as she was.
My heart goes out to her husband Kevin and the rest of her family - I cannot imagine what they must be dealing with right now. Losing Lista was a great loss to not only her family, but many other people in the Durham community as well.
There is probably more to say - Mike and I have started wedding planning, but I will mention that in more detail when there is more to say - we are super excited and ready to do this. We wish we could do it tomorrow, but we really want to throw one heck of a party. The invite list grows a bit every day - at some point we will have to say "NO MORE!" But, I will let you know how that goes. (Let's just say we are well over 100 people now, and that's pretty much just locals and family.)
Okay folks, I need to hit the gym and get to training. Let's see if I can get under 9 minutes a mile this time around...
1.20.2008
What's wrong with this picture?
I got a snack out of the vending machine at work the other day. This is what I found inside.
1.17.2008
Durham MLK Events
This weekend, we celebrate the life and legacy of Rev Martin Luther King, Jr. Many of us have the day off on Monday, and I encourage each and every one of you out there - whether you are working or not, to take some time and reflect on the legacy of Dr. King and the work of others in the civil rights movement. If you are in Durham, there are several fantastic events going on around campus. Some are posted here:
| January 20, 2008 | |
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| Marian Wright Edelman to Speak at Duke's 2008 MLK Commemoration Time: 3:00 pm - Location: Duke Chapel - Duke University Marian Wright Edelman, president of the Children's Defense Fund and civil rights lawyer, will be the keynote speaker at Duke University's 2008 Martin Luther King Jr. celebration. The event, which begins at 3 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 20, in Duke Chapel, is free and open to the public. Parking is available in the Bryan Center parking garage; directions are available in the campus map. | |
| January 21, 2008 | |
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| Triangle Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service Time: Times vary by project - Location: Locations vary by project The Triangle United Way has organized the Triangle Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service. As one of the sponsors, Duke University invites all Duke Raleigh employees to participate. Volunteers are needed for a variety of community projects in Orange, Durham and Wake Counties on January 21. Visit www.trianglemlkdayofservice.org for a list of projects in your area. Pat Kramer, DRAH United Way Chair, and the DRAH Diversity Team would like to gather a group of DRAH volunteers to help out on a Wake County project. | |
| African Children's Choir Time: 3:00 pm - Location: Page Auditorium The African Children's Choir performs throughout the world bringing hope and joy to everyone they meet while shining the spotlight on the plight of children in Africa. It is comprised of children ages seven to eleven. Each child in the Choir, has lost one or both parents to poverty or disease. The Choir members are ambassadors for all children in Africa who have become orphans because of the AIDS pandemic. They are their voice to the rest of the world. | |
| Durham: A Self Portrait Time: 7:00 pm - Location: Griffith Film Theater "Durham: a Self-Portrait" is a documentary film on the history of one of the South?s most remarkable communities. The Durham story mirrors America's own amazing journey over the past century, in all its glory and vexation. It includes more than 70 original interviews, and rarely seen film and photo images, about the "real Durham." A city that has lived the American story of race and class, and just may once again have something to say about where we are going as a nation. | |
| January 22, 2008 | |
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| Martin Luther King Jr. Observance and Prayer Service Time: 11:30 a.m. - Location: Duke Raleigh Hospital Chapel Rev. Adrian Dixon will lead an observance and prayer service in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. | |
| January 23, 2008 | |
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| Million Meals Time: 6-8 pm, 8-10 pm - Location: North Carolina Central University This coming year on January 23rd Duke University, Durham Rotary Club, North Carolina Central University, and the international hunger relief agency Stop Hunger Now will be participating in the Million Meals project. We plan to have students from the universities work towards the goal of packaging 80,000 nourishing, dehydrated, rice-soy meals. The meals the volunteers package for Stop Hunger Now will then be sent to crisis-burdened areas and school lunch programs to feed children in developing countries such as Ghana, Bolivia, and Haiti. | |
| January 24, 2008 | |
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| Breaking the Cycle of Prejudice: Taking a Closer Look at Discrimination, Prejudice & Stereotypes Time: 12:00 Noon - Location: Room 144 - Trent Drive Hall Conference Room On April 5, 1968, the day after the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. third grade school teacher Jane Elliot decided to change her lesson plan, and changed the lives of her all white third graders forever. In response to Dr. King's assassination, this teacher in a small, all-white Iowa town devised the controversial and startling "Blue Eyes/Brown Eyes" experiment by dividing her third-grade class based on eye color and giving them a daring lesson in discrimination. Come view an excerpt of the powerful film "A Class Divided" that documents the experience of these third graders and the enduring impact that this simulation had on the student's lives. Judy Seidenstein, Duke's new Director of Diversity & Equity will facilitate a conversation on this "classic" diversity film and explore the impact of The Cycle of Prejudice by identifying the roots and relationships between discrimination, prejudice and stereotypes. Join the dialog and learn what you can do to help break the cycle of prejudice. Brown Bag Lunches Welcome. Space is limited. RSVP to Jean Toomer Friday, January 18, 2008 - 681-6435 or email jean.toomer@duke.edu | |
| "4 Little Girls" Film Screening Time: 6 p.m. - Location: Schiciano Auditorium On a Birmingham Sunday morning, September 15, 1963, while attending Sunday school, four little girls were brutally murdered when a bomb ripped through the basement of the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church. Dead were Addie Mae Collins (14), Carole Denise McNair (11), Cynthia Wesley (14) and Carole Rosamond Robertson (14). A terrorist attack, orchestrated by Robert "Dynamite Bob" Chambliss, the bombing was one in a series of racial attacks against Black people across the country, but one that had a tremendous impact on America. Told through the eyes of people who were there--survivors, witnesses, defenders and prosecutors, this account records a senseless act whose supporters once thought they would be able to put an end to integration in Birmingham. Instead, it fueled the movement further when it robbed 4 innocent children of their lives and their place in the world. Sponsored by the Black Graduate and Professional Students Association. | |
1.16.2008
Every morning at our house...
It seems like that as the weather gets colder, the kitties get much friskier. Therefore, the following video is a mild representation of what we endure each morning. This was passed onto me via e-mail, and I have no idea where it came from. If anyone knows, pass on the info so I can give the creator some credit!! ENJOY
1.14.2008
It's beautiful
What's beautiful? Life. Today, Mike and I celebrate our two year anniversary of being together. It is an exciting day to think about the future and to reflect on all the memories. It has been a wonderful two years. Sometimes it seems like we have always been together, but every once in a while, when I learn something new about Mike, it reminds me that we are still very early into our relationship. As we celebrate 2 years today, I can't help but think about the many more years we have begun planning as well.
Also, you know what else is beautiful? This is:
Gorgeous. He picked such a "Michelle" ring. It is me all the way around. I don't just love it, I adore it. I can't stop looking at it. The great thing is that he can't stop looking at it either. It stands for so much and it gets us both so very excited!!! Stay tuned, folks, the planning is already in progress...
Also, you know what else is beautiful? This is:
Gorgeous. He picked such a "Michelle" ring. It is me all the way around. I don't just love it, I adore it. I can't stop looking at it. The great thing is that he can't stop looking at it either. It stands for so much and it gets us both so very excited!!! Stay tuned, folks, the planning is already in progress...
1.10.2008
Guess what??
I have debated posting this here, as there are so many people I want to share this news with in person - so so so many people - which is proving to be quite overwhelming. So, I am going to say it here, and I promise, I can't wait to tell everyone I know in person!!!
We're engaged!!! Mike proposed on Tuesday evening, and I happily, graciously and bubbly accepted!
The moment of acceptance!
The story is such: Mike and I play trivia at the James Joyce every Tuesday, less one of us is ill or we are out of town. We have been playing for the duration of our relationship, and we can gladly claim that we now bring with us each week anywhere from 6-12 additional folks that are now trivia regulars themselves. It's a great way to spend each Tuesday evening.
This Tuesday, we went to trivia like normal, and we had a big group there - two full teams worth (12 people) plus all of our other friends who were playing on other teams. We go through trivia - nothing is amiss. Until the bonus question. At that point, Kyle says over the mic, "Friends, we have a special guest for the bonus question this evening. Mr. Mike Brady, will you please take the mic?" So Mike grabs the mic and says wonderful beautiful things to me over the microphone (hardly any of which I can remember because I was in shock), and he got down on one knee and asked me to be his wife. I flung my arms in the air and exclaimed, "Yes, of course!!!" The bar went crazy - applause, tears, hugs and shouts of joy. It was wonderful and beautiful, and it was made doubly fantastic that we were able to share that moment with so many of our close friends. It was a beautiful moment. Since so many people were there, we got to have instant engagement party. Thanks to Jason and the James Joyce, we had champagne and a great time. We didn't win trivia, but I think won the best thing in the world - the $75 bar tab can wait :-)
More soon on the developments....
We're engaged!!! Mike proposed on Tuesday evening, and I happily, graciously and bubbly accepted!
The moment of acceptance!The story is such: Mike and I play trivia at the James Joyce every Tuesday, less one of us is ill or we are out of town. We have been playing for the duration of our relationship, and we can gladly claim that we now bring with us each week anywhere from 6-12 additional folks that are now trivia regulars themselves. It's a great way to spend each Tuesday evening.
This Tuesday, we went to trivia like normal, and we had a big group there - two full teams worth (12 people) plus all of our other friends who were playing on other teams. We go through trivia - nothing is amiss. Until the bonus question. At that point, Kyle says over the mic, "Friends, we have a special guest for the bonus question this evening. Mr. Mike Brady, will you please take the mic?" So Mike grabs the mic and says wonderful beautiful things to me over the microphone (hardly any of which I can remember because I was in shock), and he got down on one knee and asked me to be his wife. I flung my arms in the air and exclaimed, "Yes, of course!!!" The bar went crazy - applause, tears, hugs and shouts of joy. It was wonderful and beautiful, and it was made doubly fantastic that we were able to share that moment with so many of our close friends. It was a beautiful moment. Since so many people were there, we got to have instant engagement party. Thanks to Jason and the James Joyce, we had champagne and a great time. We didn't win trivia, but I think won the best thing in the world - the $75 bar tab can wait :-)
More soon on the developments....
1.08.2008
Racist Much?
Click on this link and watch the Andy Rooney clip here.
http://www.cbsnews.com/sections/i_video/main500251.shtml?id=3680218n
They actually pay this man to talk on television?
http://www.cbsnews.com/sections/i_video/main500251.shtml?id=3680218n
They actually pay this man to talk on television?
Restaurant Review: Ninth Street Bakery, Durham
http://www.ninthstbakery.com/
136 East Chapel Hill St.
Durham, NC 27701
(919) 286-0303
This place is a gem in downtown Durham. Since I work in downtown, I often go out for lunch on the days when I don't want to face my leftover stirfry in the fridge, or just to get out of the office. While the number of lunch places is expanding, I only have a couple standbys. One of those two is the Ninth Street Bakery. Most folks have never seen the place - it's tricky to find. In downtown, where Main and East Chapel Hill split heading into downtown, the bakery is in the back of what appears to be a loading dock (which it is - for the bakery). You will see a sign hanging above that door, and that's where you go in. During the day it usually isn't too hard to find some on street parking next to the bakery.
In the mornings, it is a hotspot for downtown workers to grab a cup of coffee and a fresh baked scone, croissant or other pastry. At lunch time, custom made sandwiches, pizza, and some killer black bean chili are on the menu. The breads are all organic. And the smell in there is just fantastic - who doesn't love the smell of freshly baked bread?? Go on certain days, and "day old" bread is available for a ridiculous price.
My favorites? The Vegan sandwich (not on the menu HERE but posted in store - hummus, romaine, cucumber, red pepper and tomato) and the totally non vegan Egg Salad Sandwich. All sandwiches come with your choice of Sun Chips, potato chips or carrots. When it's chilly out, nothing beats the black bean chili. I haven't yet been able to sample the gazpacho, but I look forward to when that's in season. If you are feeling saucy, grab one of their giant cookies for dessert (I prefer to go get a cookie at 3pm when I need a last push to make it through the work day!).
One note: the bakery prefers you pay in cash, for they are evidently getting screwed by their credit card company in how much they have to pay per transaction. They still take cards, but you may get a mini lecture. It's worth it though - either pulling out the cash or getting the lecture. This little deli is fresh homegrown food that makes you full and happy!
1.04.2008
A Quick Update
Hello, everyone! Sorry it has been a while since I have posted any text, but the holidays provided a lot of time away from the computer, and since returning, there has been lots of work to do. Here's the quick rundown on the past few weeks:
I got sick around December 19 and ended up spending half days out of work the Thursday and Friday before Mike and I left for Tampa. I got a serious cold/flu bug that really knocked me out for the count. Mike and I still headed down to Tampa on Saturday, and unfortunately for Mike, he ended up doing all the driving on the way down since I was still feeling puny. We made the trip in about 12 hours - traffic was terrible between the SC and GA border, so we ended up in a parking lot for a while.
We had an enjoyable stay in Florida. The weather was nice and warm, and I am assuming it helped me in my healing. Christmas day was very nice - Santa was very gracious to Mike, Mama Brady and myself. I got some perfume (Ralph Lauren Pure Turquoise), some cool clothes (a fuzzy sweater and a velour track suit), as well as lots and lots of books (school and fun), gift cards and holiday decorations. Let's just say the car was probably more full on the way back to Durham than it was going to Florida. I missed being with my Mom and Dads, but it was also very nice to spend Christmas with Mike. It was difficult being away from him last year, and the year before I made the stupid decision to spend Christmas by myself in North Carolina (never again - I felt like it was some sort of price I needed to pay for separating from the ex - let me tell ya, Christmas by yourself in that circumstance was the loneliest feeling I have ever had....anyway).
We left Florida the morning of Friday, Dec 28 and headed to Atlanta to spend some time with Ed, Amy and Owen. I am so glad we decided to make this side trip. Mike and I had a wonderful time playing with Owen, and I think he enjoyed his time with "Uncle Mike and Aunt Michelle." It was also just as wonderful to spend quality time with Ed and Amy - chatting about the past and the exciting future (the arrival of the next Baby Grega!). We left with heavy hearts on Saturday morning, but we were soon cheered by a visit to Ikea. Mike and I managed to fill up the rest of the remaining space in the car with our Ikea finds, and we made the trip back to Durham.
Upon our arrival in Durham, we found that the kitties were VERY mad at us, and Scout had begun to use our bed as his personal litterbox. LOVELY. Luckily, everything was washed and repaired, but we learned one heck of a lesson on that one. It was back to work for the both of us on Monday, but luckily we had Kyle's awesome NYE party to look forward to (see the last post for pictures from that event). We had a great (and late) time at the party, getting home well into 2008 - about 4 hours into the New Year! January 1 was spent in recovery, and Mike and I both finished the work week.
Wrapping up this week was planning benchmarks for my Masters project. I have to have my final unbound draft turned in no later than April 8, 2008, and my exit interview is scheduled for April 18, 2008. That means I have about 13 weeks to crank out my Masters project. YIKES. That is scary. Hence, this weekend will be spent rearranging my office to be in the best shape possible for writing. From here on out, Sundays are dedicated to school. School and laundry. Trust me, that's not the ONLY day I will be working on the paper, but that will be the big chunk weekly that I will sit down to really crank some stuff out. Wish me luck.
That's it for now, folks. More photos from the trip coming soon - promise!
I got sick around December 19 and ended up spending half days out of work the Thursday and Friday before Mike and I left for Tampa. I got a serious cold/flu bug that really knocked me out for the count. Mike and I still headed down to Tampa on Saturday, and unfortunately for Mike, he ended up doing all the driving on the way down since I was still feeling puny. We made the trip in about 12 hours - traffic was terrible between the SC and GA border, so we ended up in a parking lot for a while.
We had an enjoyable stay in Florida. The weather was nice and warm, and I am assuming it helped me in my healing. Christmas day was very nice - Santa was very gracious to Mike, Mama Brady and myself. I got some perfume (Ralph Lauren Pure Turquoise), some cool clothes (a fuzzy sweater and a velour track suit), as well as lots and lots of books (school and fun), gift cards and holiday decorations. Let's just say the car was probably more full on the way back to Durham than it was going to Florida. I missed being with my Mom and Dads, but it was also very nice to spend Christmas with Mike. It was difficult being away from him last year, and the year before I made the stupid decision to spend Christmas by myself in North Carolina (never again - I felt like it was some sort of price I needed to pay for separating from the ex - let me tell ya, Christmas by yourself in that circumstance was the loneliest feeling I have ever had....anyway).
We left Florida the morning of Friday, Dec 28 and headed to Atlanta to spend some time with Ed, Amy and Owen. I am so glad we decided to make this side trip. Mike and I had a wonderful time playing with Owen, and I think he enjoyed his time with "Uncle Mike and Aunt Michelle." It was also just as wonderful to spend quality time with Ed and Amy - chatting about the past and the exciting future (the arrival of the next Baby Grega!). We left with heavy hearts on Saturday morning, but we were soon cheered by a visit to Ikea. Mike and I managed to fill up the rest of the remaining space in the car with our Ikea finds, and we made the trip back to Durham.
Upon our arrival in Durham, we found that the kitties were VERY mad at us, and Scout had begun to use our bed as his personal litterbox. LOVELY. Luckily, everything was washed and repaired, but we learned one heck of a lesson on that one. It was back to work for the both of us on Monday, but luckily we had Kyle's awesome NYE party to look forward to (see the last post for pictures from that event). We had a great (and late) time at the party, getting home well into 2008 - about 4 hours into the New Year! January 1 was spent in recovery, and Mike and I both finished the work week.
Wrapping up this week was planning benchmarks for my Masters project. I have to have my final unbound draft turned in no later than April 8, 2008, and my exit interview is scheduled for April 18, 2008. That means I have about 13 weeks to crank out my Masters project. YIKES. That is scary. Hence, this weekend will be spent rearranging my office to be in the best shape possible for writing. From here on out, Sundays are dedicated to school. School and laundry. Trust me, that's not the ONLY day I will be working on the paper, but that will be the big chunk weekly that I will sit down to really crank some stuff out. Wish me luck.
That's it for now, folks. More photos from the trip coming soon - promise!
1.01.2008
Happy New Year's!
Here's a big thanks to Kyle for hosting an amazing New Year's party. And since my head is banging with the remnants of champagne in my blood, we will just let the photos speak for themselves. Here's to 2008 - it will be fantastic!!!!
12.30.2007
Monkey Madness
Hi, all - Mike and I have been in Tampa and Atlanta, only returning yesterday. I will post some photos and some stories in the next day or so, but in the meantime, I wanted to share a great skit from "The State" that Mike and I often quote. We quote it even more since I received this awesome peeler for Christmas.
Enjoy :-)
Enjoy :-)
12.19.2007
A Night at the Nasher
Last night was Duke's Arts & Sciences Holiday Party at the Nasher Museum. Lauren graciously invited me as her date. Here's the photo proof of our lovely evening. Enjoy! DISCLAIMER: NO ART WAS HARMED IN THE MAKING OF THESE PHOTOS
12.18.2007
Some holiday pictures
Here are a few pics from 2007 holiday parties - Lauren and I are off to yet another one this evening at the Nasher Museum, so I am sure there will be more pics to come!!!
12.17.2007
A trip to the Doctor
At my last dentist visit, my doctor spied something strange on my panoramic X-Ray. He said my right sinus looked like it had a polyp. He recommended I travel to an Ear, Nose and Throat Doctor and have it checked out. I didn't like the sound of having a polyp in my face, so I made an appointment to get it checked out. Last Friday, I had my meet-up with the Dr at Duke. Wow, that was an experience.
I have never been to an ENT doctor, so you can say I was slightly surprised when the first act of procedure was to shoot a numbing agent up my nose. Why on earth did they need to numb my nose? What were they going to do to me?
After letting the numbing take effect, Dr. Jackass came in the room with his Indian resident. Dr. Jackass mispronounced Indian doctor's name at least twice - was correct at least twice by Indian doctor - and barely acknowledged that he had addressed her completely incorrect. Anyway, this guy must have missed bedside manner day in med school. He proceeded to say my dentist was an idiot and that there was no polyp on my sinus. He then jammed a camera up my right nostril and down my throat (I nearly fainted at this point - really. I was seeing little colors, getting all sweaty and very very woozy. Thanks to relaxation and some self-hypnotism techniques I learned a few years ago, I kept conscious.) Then he said the three words anyone loves to hear at the doctor. "That looks bad. " A few sentences later he popped out with the one word that can beat out the first three - cancer.
WHAT? This is the second time I have had this happen at Duke. Something strange happens to me, and the doctor starts to prepare me for cancer. Is that REALLY necessary??? Anyway, folks, if you are worried, I am guessing I do NOT have cancer. My left tonsil is abnormally large, and I have had recurring problems since I was a kid with my tonsils. Well, evidently my left one decided to get big at some point and stay that way. Dr. Jackass doesn't like the way it looks, and he thinks I need to have my tonsils pulled out of my throat.
Here's what Wikipedia has to say about adult tonsillectomy:
Tonsillectomy in adults is more painful than in children, although each patient will have a different experience. In adults it can be extremely painful often referred to as more painful than child birth. Post-operative recovery can take from 10 up to 20 days, during which narcotic analgesics are typically prescribed.
Worse than childbirth???? Oh goodness. And 10-20 days recovery means at least one week off work, and possibly two. Normally this would be great, except I am at a new job where I had to sweet talk to get the week of Christmas off. I DO NOT want to have this surgery.
So, I'm going to get a second opinion. I'm going to make an appointment with a non - Dr. Jackass, and I will see what he or she has to say. If they say I should do it, I just may have to go through with the procedure. I'll keep you updated on that.
In the meantime though, I got a cool little toy at the doctor - a nose flushing kit!!! You know that in many parts of Asia, flushing your nose is as routine as brushing your teeth? I also learned at the doctor that I have very tiny nasal passages were also hindered by a rather deviated septum. He said that by practicing nasal irrigation, it will help me feel better. So, I'm working on making it part of my routine. Sounds weird, but so far it's helping. Aren't you glad you know that about me????
I have never been to an ENT doctor, so you can say I was slightly surprised when the first act of procedure was to shoot a numbing agent up my nose. Why on earth did they need to numb my nose? What were they going to do to me?
After letting the numbing take effect, Dr. Jackass came in the room with his Indian resident. Dr. Jackass mispronounced Indian doctor's name at least twice - was correct at least twice by Indian doctor - and barely acknowledged that he had addressed her completely incorrect. Anyway, this guy must have missed bedside manner day in med school. He proceeded to say my dentist was an idiot and that there was no polyp on my sinus. He then jammed a camera up my right nostril and down my throat (I nearly fainted at this point - really. I was seeing little colors, getting all sweaty and very very woozy. Thanks to relaxation and some self-hypnotism techniques I learned a few years ago, I kept conscious.) Then he said the three words anyone loves to hear at the doctor. "That looks bad. " A few sentences later he popped out with the one word that can beat out the first three - cancer.
WHAT? This is the second time I have had this happen at Duke. Something strange happens to me, and the doctor starts to prepare me for cancer. Is that REALLY necessary??? Anyway, folks, if you are worried, I am guessing I do NOT have cancer. My left tonsil is abnormally large, and I have had recurring problems since I was a kid with my tonsils. Well, evidently my left one decided to get big at some point and stay that way. Dr. Jackass doesn't like the way it looks, and he thinks I need to have my tonsils pulled out of my throat.
Here's what Wikipedia has to say about adult tonsillectomy:
Tonsillectomy in adults is more painful than in children, although each patient will have a different experience. In adults it can be extremely painful often referred to as more painful than child birth. Post-operative recovery can take from 10 up to 20 days, during which narcotic analgesics are typically prescribed.
Worse than childbirth???? Oh goodness. And 10-20 days recovery means at least one week off work, and possibly two. Normally this would be great, except I am at a new job where I had to sweet talk to get the week of Christmas off. I DO NOT want to have this surgery.
So, I'm going to get a second opinion. I'm going to make an appointment with a non - Dr. Jackass, and I will see what he or she has to say. If they say I should do it, I just may have to go through with the procedure. I'll keep you updated on that.
In the meantime though, I got a cool little toy at the doctor - a nose flushing kit!!! You know that in many parts of Asia, flushing your nose is as routine as brushing your teeth? I also learned at the doctor that I have very tiny nasal passages were also hindered by a rather deviated septum. He said that by practicing nasal irrigation, it will help me feel better. So, I'm working on making it part of my routine. Sounds weird, but so far it's helping. Aren't you glad you know that about me????
12.13.2007
Now I just have to write it...
I learned today that my new project proposal has been approved. I successfully registered for my final semester of graduate school - WOO HOO! I'm not posting the new proposal for a bit, as I do not want to jinx this success. If you guys want to read it, I will post it - but I don't want to bore my readership to death :-)
12.12.2007
How to be Happy - a Step by Step Guide
Well, not exactly - but today at work, we had our annual health and wellness fair. Besides all the cool freebies (bags, snacks, first aid supplies, etc), there was a booth for our mental health provider. They had a flier on the table entitled: Tips on Keys to Happiness. I thought the 8 tips were pretty nice questions to ask yourself. We're nearing the end of the year - are you happy? Do you want to be happier in 2008? These may be some good things to keep in mind (my comments are in parenthesis and are completely unofficial guides to happiness courtesy of ME):
"Happiness is the result of our living according to a set of values, being content with ourselves and our place in life, and having the ability to overcome significant life problems. The following are some of the habits of 'truly successful' people.
Those who have learned how to make themselves happy:
1. View life as a challenge and change as an opportunity.
2. Have a deep sense of commitment to what is important to them.
3. Feel empowered to the extent that they can at least influence every situation.
4. Deal with problems directly and creatively.
5. Nurture supportive relationships and surround themselves with positive people.
6. Maintain a sense of balance by taking time for all areas of life.
7. Live a higher sense of purpose by standing for something important to them."
It's an interesting way to assess what's going on for you, isn't it? Are you committed to something in life? A cause? Your family? Do you have good coping skills? Do you feel empowered? Something to think about folks.....it's your life, so go live it. Don't let it just happen to you - be a force to be reckoned with.
"Happiness is the result of our living according to a set of values, being content with ourselves and our place in life, and having the ability to overcome significant life problems. The following are some of the habits of 'truly successful' people.
Those who have learned how to make themselves happy:
1. View life as a challenge and change as an opportunity.
2. Have a deep sense of commitment to what is important to them.
3. Feel empowered to the extent that they can at least influence every situation.
4. Deal with problems directly and creatively.
5. Nurture supportive relationships and surround themselves with positive people.
6. Maintain a sense of balance by taking time for all areas of life.
7. Live a higher sense of purpose by standing for something important to them."
It's an interesting way to assess what's going on for you, isn't it? Are you committed to something in life? A cause? Your family? Do you have good coping skills? Do you feel empowered? Something to think about folks.....it's your life, so go live it. Don't let it just happen to you - be a force to be reckoned with.
12.09.2007
Coolest movie poster in a long long time???
The thanks on this one goes 100% to Becky - thank you for sending it to me!!!
12.06.2007
Here I go again.....
... so I found out my proposal wasn't totally "approved" by the program for my final project. It was, but it wasn't. I have to submit a new statement of purpose, but my adviser and I agreed that rewriting the proposal was the way to go - I want to have a strong document in place when I start writing.
Therefore, I am going to dedicate my writing energies to that rather than to the blog. Will be back soon....
Therefore, I am going to dedicate my writing energies to that rather than to the blog. Will be back soon....
12.04.2007
A different type of quiz
Thanks for this, Darrah!
I give you money and send you into the grocery store to pick up 5 items. You can only pick one thing from the following departments.. what is it?
1. Produce: tomato
2. Bakery: cheese danish
3. Meat: I'll just pocket the money ;-)
4. Frozen: red baron 4-cheese pizza
5. Dry goods: jasmine rice
Let's say we're heading out for a weekend getaway. You're only allowed to bring 3 articles of clothing with you. So, what's in your bag?
(I assume I'm already wearing some clothes?)
1. black dress
2. white button down shirt
3. nice jeans
If I was to listen in on one of your conversations throughout the day, what 5 phrases or words would I be most likely to hear?
1. No problem
2. sweet
3. awesome
4. cool
5. no way
So, what 3 things do you find yourself doing every single day, and if you didn't get to do, you probably wouldn't be in the best mood?
1. Eat a good lunch
2. Get at least 6 hours sleep
3. See Mike
You're driving down the road, and suddenly you're hit with this sense of road rage. What 3 factors probably contributed to it?
1. someone riding my bumper
2. someone with their turn signal on and no turn offs anywhere in sight
3. someone going more than 5 miles below the speed limit
Sweet, you just scored a whole afternoon to yourself. We're talking a 3 hour block with nobody around. What 5 activities might we find you doing?
1. napping
2. shopping at the mall
3. cleaning house
4. getting the stuff to make an awesome meal
5. watching a sappy girl movie
We're going to the zoo. But, it looks like it could start storming, so it'll have to be a quick visit. What 3 exhibits do we have to get to?
1. Elephants
2. bats
3. the largest fish exhibit the zoo has
You just scored tickets to the taping of any show that comes on t.v. of your choice. You can pick between 4, so what are you deciding between?
1. I Love New York (hell yeah!)
2. Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations (he has to take me with him)
3. Good Eats (great choice, Darrah!)
4. 30 Rock (I wanna be Tina Fey!!!)
You're hungry for ice cream. I'll give you a triple dipper ice cream cone. What 3 flavors can I pile on for ya?
1. Vanilla
2. Chocolate
3. Strawberry
(They put them all in one package for a reason....)
Somebody stole your purse/wallet…in order to get it back, you have to name 5 things you know are inside to claim it. So, what's in there?
1. A collection of theater ticket stubs in a Chicago ticketmaster envelope stuff behind my checkbook
2. a list of Mike's shoe and clothing sizes
3. my Burt's Bees chapstick
4. my green iPod mini
5. crushed up coupons for paper towels
You are at a job fair, and asked what areas you are interested in pursuing a career in. Let's pretend you have every talent and ability to be whatever you wanted, so what 4 careers would be fun for you?
1. animal care
2. economist (I could help fix the world :p )
3. mathematician ( you would know lots of cool stuff)
4. trivia quiz writer
If you could go back and talk to the old you, when you were in high school, and inform yourself of 4 things, what would you say?
1. Get in a routine of working out.
2. You won't always be able to eat like this - control your portion sizes!
3. Keep your pants on - sure, it's fun, but it comes with a lot of baggage.
4. Even if you fail, you really will learn from it and probably be thankful for the experience later.
I give you money and send you into the grocery store to pick up 5 items. You can only pick one thing from the following departments.. what is it?
1. Produce: tomato
2. Bakery: cheese danish
3. Meat: I'll just pocket the money ;-)
4. Frozen: red baron 4-cheese pizza
5. Dry goods: jasmine rice
Let's say we're heading out for a weekend getaway. You're only allowed to bring 3 articles of clothing with you. So, what's in your bag?
(I assume I'm already wearing some clothes?)
1. black dress
2. white button down shirt
3. nice jeans
If I was to listen in on one of your conversations throughout the day, what 5 phrases or words would I be most likely to hear?
1. No problem
2. sweet
3. awesome
4. cool
5. no way
So, what 3 things do you find yourself doing every single day, and if you didn't get to do, you probably wouldn't be in the best mood?
1. Eat a good lunch
2. Get at least 6 hours sleep
3. See Mike
You're driving down the road, and suddenly you're hit with this sense of road rage. What 3 factors probably contributed to it?
1. someone riding my bumper
2. someone with their turn signal on and no turn offs anywhere in sight
3. someone going more than 5 miles below the speed limit
Sweet, you just scored a whole afternoon to yourself. We're talking a 3 hour block with nobody around. What 5 activities might we find you doing?
1. napping
2. shopping at the mall
3. cleaning house
4. getting the stuff to make an awesome meal
5. watching a sappy girl movie
We're going to the zoo. But, it looks like it could start storming, so it'll have to be a quick visit. What 3 exhibits do we have to get to?
1. Elephants
2. bats
3. the largest fish exhibit the zoo has
You just scored tickets to the taping of any show that comes on t.v. of your choice. You can pick between 4, so what are you deciding between?
1. I Love New York (hell yeah!)
2. Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations (he has to take me with him)
3. Good Eats (great choice, Darrah!)
4. 30 Rock (I wanna be Tina Fey!!!)
You're hungry for ice cream. I'll give you a triple dipper ice cream cone. What 3 flavors can I pile on for ya?
1. Vanilla
2. Chocolate
3. Strawberry
(They put them all in one package for a reason....)
Somebody stole your purse/wallet…in order to get it back, you have to name 5 things you know are inside to claim it. So, what's in there?
1. A collection of theater ticket stubs in a Chicago ticketmaster envelope stuff behind my checkbook
2. a list of Mike's shoe and clothing sizes
3. my Burt's Bees chapstick
4. my green iPod mini
5. crushed up coupons for paper towels
You are at a job fair, and asked what areas you are interested in pursuing a career in. Let's pretend you have every talent and ability to be whatever you wanted, so what 4 careers would be fun for you?
1. animal care
2. economist (I could help fix the world :p )
3. mathematician ( you would know lots of cool stuff)
4. trivia quiz writer
If you could go back and talk to the old you, when you were in high school, and inform yourself of 4 things, what would you say?
1. Get in a routine of working out.
2. You won't always be able to eat like this - control your portion sizes!
3. Keep your pants on - sure, it's fun, but it comes with a lot of baggage.
4. Even if you fail, you really will learn from it and probably be thankful for the experience later.
12.03.2007
Professor Warren Lerner 1929-2007
UPDATE: Obituary is posted here - http://www.meaningfulfunerals.net/fh/print.cfm?type=obituary&o_id=168174&fh_id=10877&s_id=8304E690667C8835085A916FA5260BF4
I just received word that one of my Professors in the MALS Program, Dr. Warren Lerner, passed away yesterday. Going to his class was always like going to "storytime." Professor Lerner would give a 2 hour lecture with no notes on the history of communism and tell it with such fervor that you would think he was actually there. The loss of Professor Lerner is saddening to the students of Duke University and the wider academic community. Peace to his family and friends. I received some info about his passing, and some excerpts are here.
"Warren was a pillar of the history and Slavic studies communities at Duke
and in the Triangle since he was first appointed at Duke in 1961. During
his four-and-a-half decades at Duke, Warren served as chair of the Duke
History Department and as a member of the Policy Committee of the Center for
Slavic, Eurasian, and East European Studies from its inception. In addition
to Warren's extraordinary contributions to the Department of History and
CSEEES, his years of teaching for the Master of Arts in Liberal Studies and
Focus programs and for the Department of Slavic and Eurasian Studies forever
changed the shape of those units, their faculties, and students.
An author of many notable books and articles on 20th century Soviet history,
Warren Lerner was a leading scholar and teacher who supervised dozens of
doctoral students, many of whom now teach at universities throughout North
America. To the thousands of undergraduate and graduate students he taught
during his long tenure at Duke, Warren was a gifted, generous, engaging
teacher.
For those of us who had the privilege to work with Warren Lerner, he is
simply irreplaceable. Warren was a generous and kind friend and colleague
to so many of us; his impact on our lives will never be forgotten. In the
dictionary, next to the word "mensch" you'll see a picture of Warren Lerner.
He will be sorely missed.
We invite anyone who would like to share their thoughts and remembrances of
Warren with us to send an email to mnewcity@duke.edu. We will post them on
our web site. "
From: Edna Andrews and Michael Newcity
Center for Slavic, Eurasian, and East European Studies
Duke University
I just received word that one of my Professors in the MALS Program, Dr. Warren Lerner, passed away yesterday. Going to his class was always like going to "storytime." Professor Lerner would give a 2 hour lecture with no notes on the history of communism and tell it with such fervor that you would think he was actually there. The loss of Professor Lerner is saddening to the students of Duke University and the wider academic community. Peace to his family and friends. I received some info about his passing, and some excerpts are here.
"Warren was a pillar of the history and Slavic studies communities at Duke
and in the Triangle since he was first appointed at Duke in 1961. During
his four-and-a-half decades at Duke, Warren served as chair of the Duke
History Department and as a member of the Policy Committee of the Center for
Slavic, Eurasian, and East European Studies from its inception. In addition
to Warren's extraordinary contributions to the Department of History and
CSEEES, his years of teaching for the Master of Arts in Liberal Studies and
Focus programs and for the Department of Slavic and Eurasian Studies forever
changed the shape of those units, their faculties, and students.
An author of many notable books and articles on 20th century Soviet history,
Warren Lerner was a leading scholar and teacher who supervised dozens of
doctoral students, many of whom now teach at universities throughout North
America. To the thousands of undergraduate and graduate students he taught
during his long tenure at Duke, Warren was a gifted, generous, engaging
teacher.
For those of us who had the privilege to work with Warren Lerner, he is
simply irreplaceable. Warren was a generous and kind friend and colleague
to so many of us; his impact on our lives will never be forgotten. In the
dictionary, next to the word "mensch" you'll see a picture of Warren Lerner.
He will be sorely missed.
We invite anyone who would like to share their thoughts and remembrances of
Warren with us to send an email to mnewcity@duke.edu. We will post them on
our web site. "
From: Edna Andrews and Michael Newcity
Center for Slavic, Eurasian, and East European Studies
Duke University
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