Fifteen Minute Ghetto

The End of an Era

2011-05-17T21:32:00.003-04:00

It is my sad duty to inform you that The Fifteen Minute Ghetto, the hood which was the source of this blog's name, entered immortality on May 3, 2011.

The ghetto, she is gone. Bingo is no longer. Screaming people in the alley... No longer. This blog... Shortly, will be no longer. I fully intend to pop up elsewhere online, at a different URL, to continue sharing my occasional incoherent ramblings. Never fear. I'll let you know where and when. Until, I bid you adieu from what's left of the Fifteen Minute Ghetto!

Edited to add this P.S. - You can now find me at www.indiesummer.wordpress.com

Hello again!

2011-03-19T09:39:00.003-04:00

Obviously that little 30 day experiment didn't work. Perhaps it has something to do with the feeling that I'm putting my words into space with no one listening. Perhaps it has more to do with my attention to world events. Or maybe it's just that I'm not very good at following through with projects when there isn't a reward at the end. (Did I lose any weight this week? Will I get a bonus? My X is here showing, eh?) Hm... Regardless, the 30 day project has been abandoned and I'm okay with it.

Day 3: My First Love

2011-03-09T22:05:00.002-05:00

My first love was... Reading. :)
Yes, true. My first romantic love was not reading. It was playing guitar and interning at a paper mill in a small Southern Indiana town. That is, unless you count the members of several metal bands and a handful of professional tennis players. Ask me in person and I'll tell you a story or two. Not worth going into here. Sorry, peeps.

Day 2: Meaning Behind Blog Name

2011-03-08T22:30:00.002-05:00

My neighborhood is an up and coming gentrified neighborhood filled with young professionals and established working couples. It's very unusual to spot children in my neighborhood. In fact, it's very unusual to spot many people at all in my neighborhood. Most stay to themselves or quietly participate in neighborhood gatherings. We're not a frisbee throwing bunch in Indy's Old Northside.

This all changes on Wednesday and Saturday evenings when bingo lets out. Yep. For 15 minutes every Wednesday and Saturday, expect pandemonium. Honking horns, yelling spouses, loud music and the occasional police siren. It usually happens between 10:30 and 10:45pm and is over until the next bingo session lets out.

This, my friends, is the meaning behind my blog name. I am a resident of the Fifteen Minute Ghetto.

Day 1: Introduction, Recent Picture, and 15 Interesting Facts

2011-03-07T21:39:00.004-05:00

This is day 1 of my 30 day writing challenge. I'm going to follow these prompts for the next 30 days as a way to help me get back in the habit of writing again. It may seem unusual for me to begin this project on the 7th day of the month. However, I'm just back from a trip, so I'm feeling like this is a good beginning.

15 Interesting Facts
1. I have been telling people that I'm a year older than I actually am for the past several months. I believed it.
2. I've come to realize lately that my memory isn't as good as it once was.
3. The quantity of my professional work is much greater than the quality of my work.
4. I enjoy long baths. (Is that interesting?)
5. I tend to talk way too much when I've been drinking.
6. I eat eggs, but gag a little if they're undercooked. I fear cracking open an egg and seeing blood or a foot or something.
7. My eyes are blueish-greenish-silver.
8. I screen films and read magazines as volunteer work.
9. I have a soft spot for the hear/see/speak no evil monkeys.
10. I have a black and white photo of my grandparents next to my desk at work.
11. I have no idea what prompted my coworker to text me asking if we could lighten the mood of the conversation Saturday at 2:15am. I think it may have had something to do with that photo of my grandparents.
12. German visitors to my office knew more about my heritage than I did.
13. I need to get back in the habit of drinking more water than I want.
14. I love to color. (That's not a metaphor.)
15. I also love to quietly sit and color with friends. (Still not a metaphor.)

Cheers to my friend Matt for the inspiration and format.

30 Day Challenge

2011-03-07T21:38:00.001-05:00

Inspired by my friend Matt, I'm looking forward to a little something every day for the next 30 days. Do come along! :)

Day 1: Introduction, Recent Picture, and 15 Interesting Facts
Day 2: Meaning Behind Blog Name
Day 3: My First Love
Day 4: My Parents
Day 5: A Song to Match My Mood
Day 6: A Picture of Something That Makes Me Happy
Day 7: Favorite Movies
Day 8: Something I’m Afraid Of
Day 9: Favorite TV Shows
Day 10: Something I Don’t Leave the House Without
Day 11: Bible Verse
Day 12: Dream House
Day 13: Something I’m Looking Forward To
Day 14: Favorite Place to Eat
Day 15: Something I Miss
Day 16: Nicknames
Day 17: Favorite Picture of Myself & Why?
Day 18: Something I’ve Learned
Day 19: Put My iPod on Shuffle, First 10 Songs
Day 20: My Dream Wedding
Day 21: Something That Stresses Me Out
Day 22: Three Wishes
Day 23: Five Good Things That Happened Since I Started the Challenge
Day 24: My Favorite Song
Day 25: My Favorite Book
Day 26: My Favorite Quote
Day 27: A Photo That Makes Me Angry/Sad
Day 28: A Song That Makes You Cry (or Nearly)
Day 29: An Art Piece
Day 30: A Talent of Mine

lather, rinse, repeat

2011-03-07T19:05:00.001-05:00

Hm!

2011-02-24T20:56:00.002-05:00

It's starting to come together a bit... The Nerd Handbook

It Ain't Me, Babe

2011-02-20T21:17:00.002-05:00

Today's earworm is courtesy of the man in black.
... Go lightly from the ledge, babe
Go lightly on the ground
I'm not the one you want, babe
I'll only let you down...

Whee!

2011-01-02T09:54:00.000-05:00

My 2010 in Review

2010-12-31T14:35:00.004-05:00

I had a pretty freaking awesome 2010. So much so that I'm having trouble believing that 2011 can top it. But that's being short-sighted, so I digress. :)

My 2010 in Review

January 2010
I had my dewonking (eye muscle) surgery which makes me look more "normal" and noticeably improved my depth perception.

February 2010
Presented my thesis (whew!) for my MLD and also presented two sessions (personal high passion topics) at my org's annual convention.

March 2010
Ring Day! I had an excellent day with new friends and old. It was an amazing day and I'm thankful for everyone who made the trip to be there. Also spent some quality time in Orlando at a show for work.

April 2010
Not sure I did much in April other than enjoy Spring and order skates.

May 2010
Graduated from SMWC and joined the CCDG (then CCS)!

June 2010
Walked in the pride parade for the first time with a bunch of people from derby. Much fun! And, of course, celebrated my birthday (a personal favorite)!

July 2010
Visited Pam and Sandi in Seattle! And made the trip over the mountains for Lilith Faire and a visit with some of their rancher friends. Good times!

August 2010
Went to ASAE in LA where I got to spend a little time with one of my favorite CAEs!

September 2010
Went on my first derby roadtrip. Memorable times with some smart women!

October 2010
Turtle soup, pop tarts on a stick and a couple of really clever Halloween parties.

November 2010
Began volunteering with IRIS. Nice people and a really great cause. Worked a ton on a super-secret project that could have major implications.

December 2010
Awarded ISAE's APOY! Woot! Got to meet a favorite author. Spent quality time with family and friends celebrating holidays and enjoyed some true down time from work.

2011? I'm not sure what's in store for the coming year, but I'm open to opportunity. Let's do this thing!

Happy New Year!

Sunrise.... Sunset....

2010-12-29T19:47:00.003-05:00

I closed the book on another chapter that had appeared to be complete some time ago when I drove past an old house in FS today. Suspicion confirmed... No feeling. Done.

P.S. - Yay! :D

10 Years Ago...

2010-12-21T11:50:00.002-05:00

I just received an email from the woman I nearly allowed to destroy me ten years ago. Ten years ago, I was caught on a cry-sleep-cry cycle that I still find difficult to imagine. I had put so much stock in our relationship that I lost who I was. And when that relationship ended, I nearly ended my life. Instead, I packed up my stuff and headed home. My family was there for me. My friends were there for me. So many people kept poking into my world to check that I was still on my feet that eventually I was able to stand on my own. In fact, I'm no longer the same person I thought I was before I made that fateful move to Nebraska. And I'm glad because now I can dance with the best of them.

I'm sitting here at my desk crying writing this. But this time it's a different sort of tears. I've come a long long way in those ten years. I know who I am and I know what I'm willing to put up with. Thankfully, I don't feel the need to be partnered to feel complete. I have a network of people I can count on, immediate family members I count as friends and friends that I choose to be family. I am a very lucky woman and I am perfectly perfect. What a mighty ten years it has been.

Quack!

2010-12-04T15:19:00.003-05:00

I just won a substantial "of the year" professional award. The highest that my professional organization awards for someone in my position, actually. Yay!

Or at least I think, Yay! I stumbled upon a blog post from Seth Godin asking an extremely relevant question for me at this moment in my life. Whatcha gonna do with that duck?

Seven Spanish Angels

2010-11-28T20:07:00.003-05:00

Someone mentioned in the comments on this video that they'd like to have this song played at their funeral. It sounded like a good idea at first, since it's definitely a tear-jerker, but you know... Nah. Too depressing. And way too suicidal. I have zero intention of ever committing suicide, so let's just nix this one entirely, shall we? Okay, good. Done and done.

Not sure how I'd like my funeral to go down actually. I'm positive that I want to be cremated. After all, I don't believe that my body is going to meet up with my soul somewhere and live happily ever after. Before I'm cremated, I do want to be sure that every bit of me that's useable is donated to someone who can use it. (Yes, this has been communicated to my family repeatedly.) After that, it's a disco inferno. ;)

A memorial service would be nice. Something upbeat, though. Definitely something with happy(ish) music and perhaps some vodka. If not at the ceremony/event, definitely afterward. :)

So, yeah... I'll have to think on it a bit more. I like this song, but I don't think it would ever be appropriate to dedicate to me.

Tuesday!

2010-11-16T22:43:00.002-05:00

Today went mostly as planned though the waiting lasted a bit longer than I would have liked... And the laughing lasted just a bit less than I would have liked. So is life.
Tomorrow I'll be in Hartford. Comfy cozy at the Downtown Marriott. :)Sweet dreams.

P.S. - I know. I'm only technically writing every day.

Whew!

2010-11-15T22:34:00.003-05:00

Seriously... I am just a teeny bit overscheduled this week.

Going to go to work, wrap up at least three projects, meeting up to sell some derby gear, doctor's appointment at 1:30, back to the office (I hope) in time to wrap up an employee orientation, then back home to pack for a two-day trip and finally out to a comedy club. Reaaaaally shouldn't have scheduled the comedy club. Oh well.

I have time between going back to work and going out to get a little extra work done and pack some things. Right?

I can sleep on the plane. Then, meetings meetings meetings, arguing over petty BS, moving the earth to not host a crazy ridiculous party, dinner, relaxation, more meetings, return flight...

Friday - SLEEP IN! :) See a play.
Saturday - SLEEP IN! :) Meetings.
Sunday - UUI, pre-Thanksgiving, iRIS

Overacting

2010-11-14T20:49:00.001-05:00

Key here is "They both did Annie..." :)

Keep Your Rosaries Off My Ovaries

2010-11-14T08:51:00.002-05:00

I may wear a SMWC ring, but I am not Catholic. Not even close.

Okay, I was baptized and confirmed Catholic, so the Catholic church probably counts me in their numbers. The last time I played with the Belief-o-matic, Catholicism was listed at 27.

Applesauce was first on the list. (See post.) Though, I suspect that I'm just a little of whatever results in kindness and positive intentions above and beyond all else.

All that said, I was at UUI with the S&+P festival earlier this week and was able to see the new minister and his animal companion. (He travels with his dog, Arthur.) I didn't have a chance to talk to him, but I'm going to hop over there this morning to give him a listen.

We'll see how it goes.

AM

2010-11-13T20:39:00.002-05:00

Today was an interesting day.
This morning, I got to watch a 2.5 hour workshop led by the guy in the green shorts in this video:

Brawl of America Men's Queen of the Rink from Lucas Saugen on Vimeo.

Dayum.

Men's derby is a different beast than women's. No doubt. Not better or worse, just different. He had about 35 skaters jumping in unison today. My heart skipped a beat. :)

Very awesome to be at the rink this morning.

Yep

2010-11-12T20:30:00.000-05:00

I missed a day. So did TM, so.. Meh. :P

Since he's pretending to be Friday, so am I. Though, I'm not in the running for an award, I'm just seeing if I can do this posting daily thing. Apparently I cannot. So, on with my pretending...

Tonight I went to a Pecha Kucha event with a few friends and was part of a trending Twitter stream. Apparently all it takes to get something to trend is (1)an easy hashtag, (2)a room full of privileged people and (3)a screen showing the Twitter stream. Hey! It was enough for me. I even created a temporary account for the evening. After all, why open my entire Twitter account up to the world when I simply feel like mouthing off for a few hours?

Fun times were had. Memories were made. :)

Another Prompted Post

2010-11-11T20:37:00.002-05:00

Would you rather be wealthy and ugly, wise and sickly, or beautiful and stupid?

I would rather be... Wealthy and ugly.
Most days anyway.
With wealth, I could buy books and makeup.

With wisdom, I don't think I could do much to overcome being sickly (if that's a predominant trait).

Beautiful and stupid have been done too frequently to be any fun.

Not much of a post today, I realize. Just relaxing and realizing how much I'm enjoying some wine and listening to the street sounds.

Have an excellent evening!

On Doing Derby

2010-11-10T22:32:00.002-05:00

I think it’s genetic. While some say it’s determination, others say it’s stubbornness. My grandmothers have been strong role models for me, each in their own right.

My maternal grandmother was a very loyal and sturdy woman. She was a die-hard Cubs fan who would go out of her way to protect and encourage her kids and grandkids. If you messed with one of us, you messed with Mamaw. If my parents would discourage me or my sisters from trying something new, they messed with Mamaw. Whether we were right or wrong, we knew that she had our backs.

My paternal grandmother has the same determined spirit. As the widow of an alcoholic farmer and the mother of thirteen children, Grandma is one of the strongest-willed people I’ve ever met. While she and I don’t agree on much, I am smart enough not to cross her. To have made it to this point with 93 years under her belt, I would have to argue with anyone who thinks she can’t hold her own.

Mom says I get it from my Dad’s side. My Dad says I get it from Mom’s. Regardless, I am a sturdy girl with a low bullshit tolerance.

I’ve played sports on and off since childhood, but have never really stuck with any one sport for long. I never felt fast enough or tall enough or something enough. I entered to win tickets to Naptown’s Cherry Stomp (their first season opener) because I was intrigued. When I won the tickets, I was excited. Once they entered the room... Strong, sexy, athletic women having fun and really getting into it. I was hooked. Sure Wimbledon is kind of neat, but really… Screw tennis with its strawberries and cream and tidy traditions. I started to crave derby with its authenticity, its surprise do-gooder-ness with select charities, its skaters taking a knee in respect and legions of fans who could actually sing along with me to Punk Rock Girl! (How f’ing cool is that?!)

I’ve met academic goals, career goals and now I’m working on derby as a physical goal. I need to prove to myself that I can meet this challenge too. I know that I have a way to go before I’m bout-ready. But I also know that I can do anything I put my mind to because I am my grandmothers’ granddaughter.

...

I wrote that essay sometime over the summer. I know that my grandma would be happy for my decision to remove a bunch of BS from my life by walking away from the majority of the sport for the time being. Of this, I am certain. Remember that low bullshit tolerance?

Yep. Followed the Prompt...

2010-11-09T20:25:00.002-05:00

What was your favorite song this year? Five years ago? Ten years ago? Twenty?

My favorite song this year is likely that stupid song by Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros, even though it kind of freaks me out a little...

Five years ago, 2005, my favorite song was likely either....
Mr. Brightside by The Killers

or... Something else. 2005 wasn't much of a year for music. I keep thinking of 2007 and 2008...

Ten years ago, 2000, I was listening to a lot of crunchy lesbo stuff... Here are the top 10 songs of that year. Meh.

20 years ago, in 1990 (ouch), I was listening to a lot of this:

and this:

and I started listening to stuff like this:

How about you?

De-wonked

2010-11-08T20:15:00.003-05:00

I spent some quality time reading aloud this evening in the WFYI studio this evening for the Indiana Reading and Information Services (IRIS) program. I don't think I've ever read that much aloud in one setting. It took me about 90 minutes to record a 60-minute segment. And I think I probably did a solid job of butchering the names of at least six politicians. I aimed for consistency, at least.

I hope that the service is still around if/when I need it. I'm sure that at some point far down the road, my vision will become poor enough that I will grow to appreciate the spoken word much more than I currently do.

Remind me to share about the dewonking surgery I had earlier this year... It's all tied together.

Without the janky eyes, I likely wouldn't have had such a strong inclination toward recreational reading. With the janky eyes, I wouldn't be able to read for long periods of time. Dewonking = Life is easier on the eyes.

This Weekend

2010-11-07T20:19:00.002-05:00

Weekend recap and lessons learned:

Friday evening - Dinner with JL. Lesson: The people at Ralph's Great Divide are absolutely the best.

Art with AP and R. Lesson: Bring a pen. Still not sure which artist has the keys to the funky steam punkish room at the Harrison Center.

Saturday - Trip to Bloomington with KW, SK and SM. Lesson: Runcible might mean dusty.
Auntie date with MW. Lesson: Sometimes red box and a blanket tent in the living room outshines a 3d movie.

Sunday - Workout at the Y. Lesson: The treadmills facing the street are interesting only when there's traffic. Face the TVs next go around.

Derby watching party. Lesson: Don't let the drama get to you. Doing so just feeds it. And feeding it means that it exists.

Trip to CVS. Lesson: Creepy dude approaches CVS employees in the parking lot too. If you mention it to them they'll go outside while you walk to your car.

Fought with Kitchen Knifes and Skewers...

2010-11-06T23:08:00.002-04:00

Happy songs?
This song makes me smile every time.

It reminds me of singing at the top of my lungs from the 7th floor of Hines Hall at ISU with a handful of some very good friends who helped me develop into the slightly twisted individual that I am today. Sure, most of it's genetic, but... A lot of it was encouraged during those two years on campus in the cinder block rooms with Christmas lights.

This song reminds me that it's okay to be different and that no one really gives a damn because they're busy worrying what everyone else is thinking. Once you're past that, it's all good.

Once upon a time...

2010-11-05T20:33:00.001-04:00

There lived a little girl who wore thick glasses.
She grew up to be a woman who wore thick glasses. :)
The end.

It's my duty...

2010-11-04T20:24:00.003-04:00

I had jury duty today. Really. Full-scale, sitting in the box, sequestered for breaks, deliberate among strangers jury duty today. THAT was interesting.

I was there by 8. And waited. And waited.
We watched a simple little video that I'd already watched online.
And then we took a "break until 9".
And then waited some more.
Around 9:30 or so, they called about 30 of us into another room.
Where we waited. :)
Then, the questioning began.
All but 4 of the first 12 were let go.
Then all but 2 of the second 12 were let go.
Me? Number five.
Guess what we did next!
Yep. We waited some more.
Then, got some instructions and were released for lunch.
Got back and waited.
Listened to some interesting testimony.
Waited with a group allowed only to make small talk.
Listened to some more testimony.
Waited with the same group.
And a third round of testimony...
Then we waited some more.
Deliberations with the group.
Then waiting with the same group now able to chat freely about (aka dissect) anyone and everything about the trial.
Verdict read.
The end.

Arrived before 8am and left shortly after 7pm. Overall, I'm glad to have had the experience. I'm also glad that I brought a book with me.

P.S. - These are some freaking beautiful cakes.

Zap!

2010-11-03T21:23:00.002-04:00

Today, I connected a Polish association member with a Hawaiian member while sitting at my desk in Indiana. And it made my day.

Yes, I love realizing what technology is capable of doing. But I also love realizing what a community can do. And an association.

When I bitch about work or am bitching about money, I tend to forget the simple marvels of being able to connect people to one another.

Keep your widgets, I create connections.

(Anti?) Social Media

2010-11-02T20:28:00.005-04:00

Let's talk Facebook.

I throw my share of political statements on to my status updates. I also hide my share of political statements made by "friends" who are actively praying for my salvation because I'm ruining the future for their church-state.

Lately, I've hidden more and more people from my news feed. Most are not because of their politics. Most are because of their passive-aggressiveness. Their shortsightedness. Their dullard comments about the same idiotic routines. Their blatant double-talk from one forum to another to another to another to another.

At one point about a week ago, I was waiting for a response to an email from a "committee chair". I waited and waited and waited and then realized that she and I were so connected that I could see where she was (foursquare)and who she was with and what she was doing (updates to Facebook and Twitter). And I realized that she could be texting me, sending me a tweet, a direct message, an email, posting on my Facebook page, sending me a private message on a forum we're both on or even call me. (I'm sure I'm missing something...) Too much. Just way too much.

So I started hiding. I started disconnecting. I didn't need to see where she is. And she didn't need to see where I am. Or who I'm with. Or know what I'm doing. I hid at least 60 people from my Facebook news feed and then I started deleting people I followed on Twitter. I don't care about every move that girl makes. And I don't care about every move her alter-ego makes either. It seems that I was getting Twitter updates from both her personal and her hobby accounts. And Facebook updates from both as well. Thankfully she couldn't literally divide herself or I probably would have been following both of her damn foursquare accounts too.

So, yes. I'm making some space. Having hidden those 60 people from my news feed, I've made room for people I'd been overlooking. A cousin in California went to a pretty awesome looking Halloween party. A friend of a friend went on a road trip. A woman I met at a concert last year was looking for her voting location. Just life. Regular life is going on and I'm thankful that those 60 people aren't in my face with theirs.

They don't pass the "hug test", but more on that later.

5 Minute University

2010-11-01T21:24:00.006-04:00

Today, I was encouraged to think about serving on the national alumnae board AND I was also notified that my student loan consolidation is likely messed up.

And, then I see this:

Enjoy! Ranting later... Maybe after I finish law school.

So Much More than 140

2010-10-31T15:43:00.000-04:00

I may be posting here a bit more in the coming days. I'm feeling a rant on the way. Something about finding my place, passive-aggressive people and the act of writing itself.

In the meantime, I wish you a safe and happy Halloween!

Wow!

2010-05-12T22:17:00.003-04:00

Hey there!
It's been almost a year to the day since I've last posted. I'm still here!
In the past year, I've...
- Loved and lost.
- Earned a Master's degree!
- Earned a state award for my work.
- Been interviewed because of my work... Not just because of who I work for.
- Lost and lost some more (I'm now on WW and go to the Y regularly).
- Am looking forward to my next adventure! (Roller derby skills workshop Saturday! Let's do this thing!)
More coming soon(er than later). :)

Kindness

2009-05-13T15:20:00.002-04:00

A coworker sent me this:

I'm thankful. :)

Overheard

2009-05-12T08:25:00.001-04:00

Pardon me for speaking while you interrupt...

...sticky wicket...

Can't let the inmates run the asylum!

If you're going to bill me like a biz and want me to treat you like a church, you have issues.

Note from the Universe...

2009-02-09T08:36:00.001-05:00

Or at least it's a good reminder via the horoscope people:

Gratitude is an awesome thing -- just take a look at your life. It's great! You're single, you're free, you do whatever you want and have no one to answer to. That's a gift. Look at your life and allow that appreciation to flow in. Everything is on the upswing!

100 Things in 20 Minutes

2009-01-21T21:28:00.002-05:00

This probably violates the concept of the exercise, but... I'd like to share my 100 things in 20 minutes with you, so (1) I am held a wee bit more accountable and (2)I can easily access this list later.

1. Write more often, instead of type.
2. Address wedding invitations for $$$.
3. Cuddle more.
4. Sit up straight more.
5. Smile more.
6. Learn more.
7. Laugh more.
8. Love more.
9. Be more.
10. Know that I'm loved.
11. let others know I love them.
12. Drink more water.
13. Do something instead of eat lunch at my desk.
14. Remember that no one is holding me down but me.
15. Encourage others.
16. Paint weekly?
17. Have a project that involves painting.
18. Talk to my sisters more often.
19. Have a movie night in my apt.
20. Go to First Fridays.
21. Volunteer again and again.
22. Check out Indy Ambassadors meeting.
23. Figure out my finances.
24. Have a budget.
25. Save for a vacation.
26. Go on a vacation.
27. Do origami.
28. Get a tattoo.
29. Go with JL to get a tattoo.
30. Ask Heather if she still likes hers.
31. Write a letter to DR.
32. Get back in touch w/DR.
33. Go for a walk in the snow.
34. Hug more often.
35. Cook at home more often.
36. Go for walks.
37. Take care of myself.
38. Dream big.
39. Go to Stonehenge for my birthday.
40. Get a passport.
41. Earn my CAE, fingers crossed.
42. Look through the telescope at Butler.
43. Develop a ritual around a labyrinth.
44. Take photos.
45. Understand that it is okay to love more than be loved. Keep giving.
46. Have a theme week but don't' tell anyone about it.
47. Have a theme week at work.
48. Make a holiday just because.
49. Celebrate NCSW.
50. Celebrate one crazy holiday a week.
51. Trust myself.
52. Take my vitamins.
53. Go to a yard sale.
54. Make snowcones.
55. Make a fancy drink.
56. Follow a recipe for a nice dinner.
57. Understand pig latin.
58. Speak more Spanish.
59. Make a stranger smile.
60. Remember that I work to live, not live to work.
61. Don't take coworkers for granted.
62. Have a signature color.
63. Change the quote on my email sig.
64. Add a quote to work sig.
65. Have fresh flowers around me.
66. Try the garden thing again?
67. Grow something.
68. Remember birthdays.
69. Make others feel special.
70. Make a different to someone every day.
71. Stretch.
72. Redesign the mag.
73. Ask more people to write and be interviewed.
74. Ask for help when I need it.
75. Sing along.
76. Live in the moment.
77. Anticipate wonderful things.
78. Share photos.
79. Share stories.
80. Be a good aunt to all three of my nieces/nephews.
81. Be a good sister.
82. Be a good sister-in-law.
83. Be a good friend.
84. Be a good employee.
85. Be a good person.
86. See one movie a month in the theater.
87. Go to a play.
88. Go to the pride parade.
89. Be authentic.
90. Remember that the Dr.Seuss quote is true.
91. Paint my nails.
92. Paint MW's nails.
93. Shave my legs for me.
94. Color.
95. Drive more carefully.
96. Be at work early and don't stay late.
97. Skydive.
98. Eat ice cream at the top of Crown Hill.
99. Make friends with more of my neighbors.
100. Skinny dip.

I did it! Yay!

2009-01-21T21:27:00.000-05:00

It's official. I earned my CAE! Yay, me!

Happy new year!

2008-12-31T13:41:00.002-05:00

I'm wrapping up 2008 with thankfulness. It has been a great year for me and I have very few regrets. Here's to an even better 2009!

As an update... I was accepted into the grad program and I survived my certification exam. I won't have results from my exam for another couple of weeks.

All the best to you and yours for a 2009 that kicks major booty!

Hola

2008-11-28T20:14:00.002-05:00

Hey there,
Thanks for checking in on me. Fortunately/unfortunately, I've been quite active on facebook and Twitter lately and haven't spent much time here. I also blog on occasion at kincafe (for the fam).

Here's what's new:

1. I have found this blog post to be likely the most inspiring since I last posted.

2. Yay, Obama! I managed to sneak in a pre-election rally.

3. I've applied to grad school (I learn if I'm accepted next week).

4. I'm prepping for my certification exam next week(December 5).

5. My eyelid keeps twitching (see 3 and 4).

6. I purchased a new moisturizer tonight and have high hopes that it will be a new favorite.

7. Email me at ghettomail@gmail.com if you're interested in following me on Twitter or friend me on facebook... Stalker... ;)

8. I'll let you know how next week goes.

Back from San Diego

2008-08-21T20:14:00.005-04:00

I was quite impressed by the sights and sounds of San Diego. Here are a few photos from the conference this weekend. They each have a story... Which would you like to hear first?

Good Tune

2008-07-14T17:18:00.002-04:00

I've recently fallen in love with this song.
Rock Me To Sleep - Amy Nelson on Rainbow Connection

All I can hear are the crickets
And the whistle from some lonely freight
I've been working so hard to make everything right
But for now it'll just have to wait

Chorus:
'Cause tonight I'd like you to rock me to sleep
I'd like you to sing me a song
I'm tired of trying to figure things out
And I'm tired of being so strong

I've never been too good at asking
I'm more apt to do it alone
And it's strange how a lot of us think something's wrong
If we can't do it all on our own

Chorus

It's funny how times when your hurtin'
Make what's so familiar seem strange
And when you need help, it's hardest to ask
And it always takes so long to change

Sacramento

2008-07-11T12:07:00.002-04:00

So... Three days in the office and I'm back out in the world headed to Sacramento. Back out in the world, meaning back in an airport waiting area. Wait, wait, wait... If you know me very well, you know that I don't like to wait. That's about all I've been doing for the past 24 (to go onto 36) hours.

The view out the windows at the Sacramento airport is non-existent due to the smoke from the wildfires. This is an unusual experience. Very unusual. And, it's even more unusual that United booked me on a flight from O'Hare to Indianapolis with a 30 minute layover. With luck (any luck), the gates will be near each other. With a little less luck, but still luck, there will be a cart waiting for me to get to the next gate. Whee! :)

So, that's what I'm up to. Waiting and waiting... Waiting some more.

And More Photos

2008-07-07T20:32:00.002-04:00

Photos from Washington

2008-07-07T20:28:00.002-04:00

Another Backhanded Compliment...

2008-06-25T20:16:00.002-04:00

Today was staff photo day, and...

A co-worker this morning told me my hair looked sexy. She said I "kinda have an Anna Nicole thing going on".

Yep. I'll take that as a compliment. After all, she was the modern Marilyn. :)

Daily Singles (Today's Gemini Horoscope from Yahoo)

2008-06-17T08:34:00.002-04:00

Intelligence doesn't have to cancel out popularity. Don't act stupid just to make others feel better about themselves. Be yourself no matter how high your IQ happens to be.

Solstice Things

2008-06-16T21:15:00.002-04:00

Summer solstice things that I'd like to do someday:
- Freemont Fair (Seattle)
- Visit Stonehenge
- Carhenge

Summer solstice things that I plan to do this year:
- IMA Mare Fecunditatis
- UUI CUUPs Solstice Ritual

Who is Sam Jones?

2008-06-10T10:40:00.001-04:00

According to Inside Indiana Business The City of Indianapolis has renamed Airport Expressway, the Sam Jones Expressway. Jones became the first president of the Indianapolis Urban League in 1966. He passed away in 2003. The city says once the Midfield Terminal project at Indianapolis International Airport is completed, the current expressway will no longer lead to the airport.

Silence..

2008-05-31T14:54:00.003-04:00

Just back from helping decorate the park for Steph and Stephanie's wedding. At one point this afternoon, I watched Stephanie's dad sweeping the sidewalk outside of the park. And scraping the damp leaves off of the sidewalk... He wasn't saying anything to anyone. I didn't notice if he said good bye before he left the park. He was just there doing his part to make his daughter's day the very best it could be and to show his love. I'm sure she felt it. I know I did.

On Nail Polish and Backhanded Compliments

2008-05-21T20:14:00.003-04:00

Monday evening, Candy said to me... "You are the only person I know who could use glitter to make something inconspicuous."

Hm.... This hits me just right today.

2008-05-15T08:09:00.000-04:00

"We must be willing to get rid of the life we've planned so as to have the life that is waiting for us." - Joseph Campbell

A Snippet from a Note to Ingrid...

2008-05-12T18:44:00.002-04:00

About halfway through a note to my friend Ingrid in Olso, I realized that what I was writing should be shared. Here, my friends and family, is a bit of that note:

I wish there was a lesbian organization in Indy that went for hikes. That sounds right about perfect for me. I haven't been to IndyIndie* for awhile, which is shame on me. I totally need to keep myself out there for the world to meet. You know... I really like your quote on facebook about always smiling even if you're not feeling like it because you never know who will fall in love with your smile. That's so true and so sweet.

Each year around this time, the organizations I work for have their annual planning meetings. Today was day 1 of 3... This morning's topic (utilizing social networking to attract younger members) was fairly interesting, but this afternoon's topic (a highly technical debate about the industry) was sooo boring that I really didn't think I could stand it. My boss and I were the only non-technical people in attendance, so we spent some quality time text messaging each other making fun of the situation. Nice, huh?

*I didn't put the link in my note. ;)

A Rarity...

2008-05-06T20:04:00.002-04:00

Just in case I happen to be in a massive funk anytime in the next ten years or so, please play this song for me. It can always pull me up. That and a wonderful holiday champagne punch from Electrasteph and stephsk8r wedding shower on Saturday. YUMMY!

Today's Horoscope... The Change Edition

2008-04-30T09:37:00.001-04:00

Overview
You've got plenty of creative energy flowing now and you should focus on that rather than the mundane realties of daily life. Unless rent or some other big bills are coming due, that is!

Love
Close your eyes and try to visualize your future. What do you see? Does it look anything like your current life? What can you do now to make your dreams a reality? It's all within your reach. Dream big, and make it happen. You can do this!

Career
You're dreaming about change, but be more specific. With your blurry picture, you won't get far. Imagine exactly what you want, and then tackle how to get it.

Sitting, Watching, Waiting

2008-04-13T19:22:00.003-04:00

Sitting on the patio on a spring evening. Behind me:"Not a date" first date boys. To the right: Two straight girls. Ahead of me: a very good friend, an empty table and a brick wall. The second floor is empty (storage?). Down the alley, the green line of the cultural trail leads past the adult shop at a boy bar... The same boy bar where K first heard of the Artisocrats (the documentary).

Watching as DB holds court with tales of silver balls and being late for work. Overhearing... Boys on fake date, girls talking about flowers and weddings. One of the boys says he hated San Francisco while he was there, but loved it when he left. One of the girls has a seven year old son. Seven years ago I was 25, almost 26, and was surprised to be alive. I always thought 25 was it. He says he needs a real date for Saturday. I think to myself that I need a real city where the cultural trail doesn't pass a dusty toy shop. DB deserves better.
_____________________________________
Waiting. Now I learn of nine-year cycle. I'm scared and excited. I look forward to next Sunday. One week from today, I get serious... After I take time to recuperate from this week's events... The final push. Wish me luck.

:(

2008-04-12T23:31:00.001-04:00

Is Matthew Sweet's Girlfriend really a Guitar Hero II song? If so, I think I might cry. I've never known another person who can sing along to this song. Maybe it'll be meaningful when I do.

I Like Giants

2008-04-06T20:08:00.002-04:00

By Kimya Dawson

when i go for a drive i like to pull off to the side
of the road, turn out the lights, get out, and look up at the sky
and i do this to remind me that i'm really really tiny
in the grand scheme of things and sometimes this terrifies me
but it's only really scary 'cause it makes me feel serene
in a way i never thought i'd be because i've never been
so grounded and so humbled and so one with everything
i am grounded, i am humbled, i am one with everything

rock and roll is fun but if you ever hear someone
say you are huge look at the moon, look at the stars, look at the sun
look at the ocean and the desert and the mountains and the sky
say i am just a speck of dust inside a giant's eye
i am just a speck of dust inside a giant's eye

when i saw geneviève i really liked it when she said
what she said about the giant and the lemmings on the cliff
she said "i like giants- especially girl giants. 'cause all girls feel
too big sometimes, regardless of their size"

when i go for a drive i like to pull off to the side
of the road and run and jump into the ocean in my clothes
and i'm smaller than a poppyseed inside a great big bowl
and the ocean is a giant that can swallow me whole
so i swim for all salvation and i swim to save my soul
but my soul is just a whisper trapped inside a tornado
so i flip to my back and i float and i sing
i am grounded, i am humbled, i am one with everything
i am grounded, i am humbled, i am one with everything

so i talked to geneviève and almost cried when she said
that the giant on the cliff wished that she was dead
and the lemmings on the cliff wished that they were dead
so the giant told the lemmings why they ought to live instead
and when she thought up all those reasons that they ought to live instead
it made her reconsider all the sad thoughts in her head
so thank you geneviève, 'cause you take what is in your head
and you make things that are so beautiful and share them with your friends

we all become important when we realize our goal
should be to figure out our role within the context of the whole
and yeah, rock and roll is fun but if you ever hear someone
say you are huge look at the moon, look at the stars, look at the sun
look at the ocean and the desert and the mountains and the sky
and say i am just a speck of dust inside a giant's eye
i am just a speck of dust inside a giant's eye
i am just a speck of dust inside a giant's eye
and i don't wanna make her cry

'cause i like giants.

Yay!

2008-03-24T17:09:00.003-04:00

One of my old work buddies from California just stopped by the office. I hadn't heard from him in about a year and I hadn't seen his smiling face for almost two. It's amazing how quickly time flies and then how quickly the memories come rushing back. (I hope I haven't run close to my hug quotient in the past couple days.) That totally made my day!

Ha! Leave it to the Onion....

2008-03-22T10:07:00.002-04:00

Black Guy Asks Nation For Change

CHICAGO—Some residents reported seeing the black guy waving wildly and quoting from the Bible, while others said they spotted him shouting about global warming.

Wow!

2008-03-21T21:24:00.001-04:00

How is it that I'm just hearing about the Puppini Sisters?
Dang... If you like the Leisure Kings, you'll love the Puppini Sisters.

:)

2008-03-10T14:35:00.002-04:00

Awwww... I hope good things really DO come in 3s.

Peeps!

2008-03-10T13:41:00.003-04:00

I just received three packages of peeps in the mail! Yippee!

Wah!

2008-02-14T09:39:00.003-05:00

My "beer gut" might really be my "Diet Coke gut"? Blah...
Steph just posted this over at Commonplacebook:
Metabolic Syndrome Is Tied to Diet Soda

I've cut back on the beer consumption... In favor of vodka, true... But, hey! There has to be a plan in place for weaning me off of Diet Coke.

For Gretchie...

2008-02-06T21:40:00.000-05:00

Hey, girl, hey... (YouTube)

Stupid heads...

2008-02-01T08:05:00.000-05:00

What's up with this weather? I'm not supposed to be at work right now... I'm supposed to be taking a snow day, complete with a hot toddy and PJs.

I have a highly inappropriate joke about depth perception that I could share at this point, but I'll spare you.

Hey, girl... hey...

2008-01-31T19:02:00.000-05:00

Been a long time, no? Lots of developments in my personal life. However, since I'd made great strides in not mentioning those things here, I'm not going to start. :) Let's just say that I'm no longer living my life like a Sheryl Crow song.

And... I just finished paying for my very first new mattress set. Indeed. It's been a great time of realization. What?! I'm not getting younger and my back is twisted from sleeping in a double-curved ball for the past several years? My legs aren't the same length and my pelvis is tilted? Lovely...

The girls at work really thought it was funny that I'm willing this new mattress set to be the good feng shui I need to snag a partner. I'd made an off-handed comment at lunch yesterday about maybe having more second dates once I get the new mattresses... :) We shall see what happens now that I've officially made it public that I'm on the market.

I signed up for a demo membership at a pilates studio last week. Much fun and an awesome workout (for me, anyway), but I simply can't afford it right now. The good news is that I know that I enjoy it. And (only slightly related to my last thought)I'm more bendy than either of last week's instructors thought. So, ha!

Happy New Year!

2007-12-30T21:21:00.001-05:00

Be always at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbors, and let each new year find you a better man. ~Benjamin Franklin

With love and warm wishes of happiness and prosperity for 2008,
M

Happy Solstice

2007-12-21T10:54:00.000-05:00

Interesting info on the solstice here and...

The song of the season
The Christians and the Pagans - Dar Williams (link to YouTube)

No matter what you celebrate, live it up! :)

Word to Mimi

2007-12-18T18:23:00.000-05:00

I couldn't have said this better, so I won't. I'll let mimismartypants have at it:

Making a phone ring is like yakking to your friend in a crowded theater, whereas texting is just a gentle punch in the arm during the funny part of the movie. I still can't get into that Twitter shit, however. If I am in the mood to broadcast my crazy to the world, 140 characters is not going to cut it.

Black Sheep - Ugly Duckling

2007-12-11T15:03:00.000-05:00

And any other lame sad sack animal anaolgy I can think of...

I am so over being the only one not participating in sex, politics and religion conversations at work. Sad, eh? Yep. I don't fit the mold and my co-workers aren't progressive enough to deal with even the tip of my iceberg.

Oh, blech...
Just another fleeting moment of lonliness in a red state. Wah.
I'm sure I'll perk out of it in a few. :)

Serial Diners - Indy?

2007-10-23T20:18:00.001-04:00

I was putzing around Ask Metafilter this evening looking for something specific... But specifically not this idea.

Does anyone in Indianapolis know of anything like Serial Diners in Toronto? This sounds like a blast!

If nothing like this exists... Would anyone be up to helping me start an Indianapolis version? It sounds like it would be pretty easy to coordinate. No RSVPs. Just a phone book and an "agenda" on a website. Could be scary, could be fun, could be just what this city needs.

If you're interested, drop me a comment and I'll see what we can come up with.

An Old Favorite

2007-10-15T20:20:00.001-04:00

Be Who You Are
and Say What You Feel
Because Those Who Mind Don't Matter
and Those Who Matter Don't Mind.
- Dr. Seuss

Boo! This is what I've been up to...

2007-08-19T18:36:00.000-04:00

I'm back! Albeit I have no idea how long I'll be back at this. Since I last posted, I have:
- Had the biggest interview in my life.
- Which immediately preceeded one of the biggest disappointments in my life.
- Co-hosted a wedding shower for my little sis.
- Celebrated my birthday w/ JL and Candy.
- Went to a naturlization ceremony.
- Celebrated Candy's birthday.
- Celebrated little sis' marriage to Chris.
- Attended a conference in Chicago.
- Picked up a membership survey for the "church" I've been attending.
- Started recycling paper products.
- Went to volunteer orientation for a local non-profit.
- Eaten many popsicles.
- And much more, including marvelled at a bumpersticker that says: If Mary had been pro-choice, we wouldn't have Christmas. (I don't think that's the way it works, people.)

What's new with you? Any of these you'd like me to elaborate on?

Assholes...

2007-06-12T17:10:00.001-04:00

Summer Solstice - CHANGED
Thursday, June 21, 2007
8:30 pm to 10:00 pm
IMA Grounds
Free

Details:
The scheduled June 21 Summer Solstice dance performance by FoReal Art
Company has been cancelled. However, visitors are invited to the IMA
grounds from 8:30 pm to 10:00 pm to ring out the longest day of the
year. Bring your musical instrument for an impromptu melody, pack a
late-night picnic, or stroll the lush IMA gardens at summer's height.

Also, please visit the IMA Thursday, June 28 at 8:00 pm for Bi-Quad,
an outdoor dance performance by Susurrus in relation to the exhibition
Nature Holds My Camera. Details at www.ima-art.org.

I don't think you're ready for this jelly...

2007-06-01T21:43:00.000-04:00

This is so not my ass, but it's relatively close.

Just answered a 10 +/- quiz at www.zafu.com and found 5 brands of jeans that "fit my shape". Pretty fun. Found the link and a few others in Blueprint magazine (a Martha spinoff).

Now I'm doing www.myshape.com to confirm that I'm a pear-shaped woman. Ah... I'm a Type A here too. Oh, so lucky...

Who knew that www.evite.com has a beverage calculator. This would have been very handy a couple of weeks ago. But, still totally could be for sis' wedding next month. Of course, there is fine print out the wazoo... The resulting information provided by this tool is only intended for informational purposes and calculations are based on estimates and certain assumptions. The information is not guaranteed to be accurate and is intended to be used solely as a guide. Evite.com disclaims any responsibility or liability for any losses or damages caused as a result of any placing reliance on this tool and the resulting information.

I Want to Be Queen!

2007-05-07T19:27:00.001-04:00

Is that so wrong?

Meeting the Queen From NPR

Should you have the opportunity to meet Queen Elizabeth II during her visit to the U.S ., don't panic. Here are some etiquette tips that will see you through the encounter in fine form.

WHAT DO I DO WHEN THE QUEEN ENTERS THE ROOM?
Rise and remain standing. If you make eye contact, it's okay to smile. But don't just stroll over and introduce yourself. A host will do that.
So, I'd need to have a host (I'd rather have a hostess.) with me at all times. I could deal with that 80% of the time.

DO I NEED TO BOW OR CURTSEY?
No. Americans are not expected to show such courtesy but are free to do so. Should you choose to, men bow their head only, dropping from the neck. Women perform a slight curtsy, placing the right foot behind the left heel and slightly bending the knees.
I would expect this from all Americans. Maybe not from my hostess though.

MAY I SHAKE THE QUEEN'S HAND?
Yes, but wait for the queen to offer her hand first. And, suggests Britain's Guardian newspaper, "Try to refrain from vigorously pumping the royal arm; a brief touch is preferred."
I could deal with traditional American handshakes. Though, having my gloved hand kissed occasionally might be fun.

HOW DO I REFER TO THE QUEEN?
As "Your Majesty" on first being introduced and subsequently as "Ma'am." Lower nobility, such as her husband, The Duke of Edinburgh, are referred to as "Your Highness" at first and subsequently "Sir." Refrain from using cute nicknames for members of the royal family.
And, I'd ask people to call me "Goddess M" on first reference. ;)

WHAT SHOULD I TALK ABOUT WITH THE QUEEN?
Feel free to make small talk or discuss topics in the news, but let the queen steer the conversation. And keep your comments brief.
This is my primary motivator in my quest to be Queen.

HOW SHOULD I EAT IN THE PRESENCE OF THE QUEEN?
Gracefully. Don't eat too quickly. Don't swig water directly from plastic bottles. When the queen stops eating, so should you. But do enjoy your meal.
Vegetarian fare.

Oh well, maybe next lifetime.

Get on the bus, ya'll...

2007-05-05T09:45:00.001-04:00

Why do parents feel the need to take their kids to school? Don't almost all school districts have buses to pick the kids up and drop them off? Is it that the parents don't trust their kids to get on the bus or do they not trust the bus driver to pick up the kid?

Just stopping by...

2007-04-29T21:22:00.001-04:00

I can't remember when I went to Reno, but wanted you to know I'm back. I'm also back from CT. Lots of stories that I should have likely written when they were still fresh. Now, there are too many that I've forgotten. Lately, I've played mini-golf, wallowed in my singleness, visited little sis for lunch, caught up with an old friend over coffee, went to the IMA, drank many drinks and had an adventure at Mounds State Park. Not sure when I'll post again and not sure the best way to wrap this up. Abandoned blogs drive me crazy, so I'll try not to go that route. More sooner or later.

XOXO,

Two Things... Okay, Three

2007-03-22T21:33:00.001-04:00

1. PH mentioned Bread and Tulips, so of course I had to see what it was about. It's now on my short(er) list of movies I'd like to see. Sounds fun.

2. How to Be an _____________ for a Day from The Morning News. I appreciate that the "an" is grammatically correct.

3. Which reminds me that yesterday, on the way home from work, I spotted a truck with a decal reading: If Your Not An American, Get the Hell Out. Now that I think about it, I'm fairly surprised that the decal read "an"... I may be off on this one.

Where's MJ?

2007-03-11T19:07:00.000-04:00

I've been busy-busy lately, so no regular posting for awhile longer...

Looking for something fun to do? Stick these labels on items at the grocery story.

Just breathe...

2007-03-01T20:09:00.001-05:00

I think I need to take some time this weekend to just breathe (and maybe get a manicure).

Candy made cupcakes yesterday when she learned that I had a very stressful day. As a thank you... A virtual tour of Diggerland in the UK.

Linky Goodness Everywhere Today...

2007-02-27T21:52:00.000-05:00

Esquire's Napkin Fiction Project

UN Online Volunteering Service

Land America Financial Group

LJC found little hatching chicks and also mentioned that Starbucks has cupcakes.

Next Time I'm in Seattle...

2007-02-25T18:27:00.000-05:00

I'm going to Trophy Cupcakes and Party if I have to walk there from the airport. :)
When is Indy going to open a cupcake shop already?

Next time I'm in Seattle...

2007-02-24T21:19:00.000-05:00

I'm going to Trophy Cupcakes and Party if I have to walk there from the airport. :)

When is Indy going to open a cupcake shop already?

Random Crap

2007-02-22T21:42:00.000-05:00

From Curbly: **Maid's Tip** Cleaning your microwave is easy peasy. Put a bowl of vinegar and water in the microwave, and cook on high for 3 minutes. Then just wipe out the microwave with a rag. The vinegar will take care of that funky popcorn/bacon smell combo most everyone's microwave has, and the steam will soften even the most funky funk that's in your microwave.

I just remembered Paczki. Yummy! I haven't had it since I lived in Lansing. Quality Dairy would carry it and there was a QD on nearly every corner. Need proof? Check out this map... If you would have asked me to name the store in Lansing earlier today, last week or three years ago, I probably wouldn't have remembered it. Today, I see Paczki and think Quality Dairy. Bizarre. They also featured burned coffee.

And, since I was thinking Polish/Russian/Etc., check out this link on Latvia, if you're so inclined.

Note: If this shows up twice for some reason, I apologize for the double-dose of random crap. For some reason my emailed post didn't go through immediately. It will probably go through late tonight while I'm listening to the summer night.

Valentine's Day: The Love/Hate Edition

2007-02-14T19:10:00.000-05:00

Today, I love the fact that a bunch of my neighbors were helping people get their cars unstuck (including me). Today I hate that I have to worry about if my car is going to be towed tonight and where I'll park tomorrow. I love that I can write this from my warm apartment while drinking hot chocolate with marshmallows. And, I hate that I can't share this with a phone call for fear of ruining your Valentine's Day. I love that you're reading this and wondering if I've hit the vodka today. I hate that you're not here to share it with me this evening.

Groceries....? Check. Snow day Tuesday? Stay Tuned.

2007-02-11T21:39:00.001-05:00

MAJOR WINTER STORM ON THE WAY! Here are the nuts & bolts on Monday night/Tuesday's storm: 1)Heavy snow potential likely...with 12" to 20" underneath the heavy band, 2)Significant ice accumulations up to 1"+ are possible, especially in the southern viewing area, 3)Travel is not recommended on Tuesday, this storm will probably close interstates at times with snow rates exceeding 1"/hour, 4)Wind will be a factor with estimated speeds at 25 to 35mph...but the heavy moisture content in the snow should limit blowing & drifting. What's YET TO BE DETERMINED: 1)Location of heavy snow band, 2)How far north winter mix travels, cuts down on someone's snow totals, 3)STORM TRACK, STORM TRACK & STORM TRACK which is the key to this whole thing. Latest model runs are hinting at a more northern track so we'll definitely have to wait it out another 12 to 24 hours. From WISH-TV-Indianapolis

Get This...

2007-02-09T22:15:00.000-05:00

This is a test message. Nothing more... Nothing less...

Now You Know...

2007-02-09T21:05:00.000-05:00

My Taste in Music:

80's Alternative: High Influence
90's Pop: High Influence
90's R&B: Medium Influence
Alternative Rock: Medium Influence
Old School Hip Hop: Medium Influence

How's Your Taste in Music?

My Values Profile

Loyalty:

You value loyalty highly.
You're completely devoted to your friends and family.
Even if they totally screw up, you're still there for them.
Just make sure they're equally loyal to you!

Honesty:

You value honesty a fair amount.
You're honest when you can be, but you aren't a stickler for it.
If a little white lie will make a situation more comfortable, you'll go for it.
In the end, you mostly care about "situational integrity."

Generosity:

You value generosity a fair amount.
You are all about giving, as long as there's some give and take.
Supportive and kind, you don't mind helping out a friend in need.
But you know when you've given too much. You have no problem saying "no"!

Humility:

You value humility highly.
You have the self-confidence to be happy with who you are.
And you don't need to seek praise to make yourself feel better.
You're very modest, and you're keep the drama factor low.

Tolerance:

You value tolerance highly.
Not only do you enjoy the company of those very different from you...
You do all that you can to seek it out interesting and unique friends.
You think there are many truths in life, and you're open to many of them.

The Five Factor Values Test

I've Changed 44% in 10 Years

You've done a good job changing with the times, but deep down, you're still the same person.
You're clothes, job, and friends may have changed some - but it hasn't changed you.

How Much Have You Changed in 10 Years?

I Should Never Date a Scorpio

Jealous, paranoid, and possessive - deep down, your Scorpio will never trust you.
And even if you are very trust worthy person, Scorpio's paranoia may drive you to act out.

Instead try dating: Aries, Gemini, Libra, or Sagittarius

What Sign Shouldn't You Date?

Anna Nicole Makes 3?

2007-02-08T20:06:00.000-05:00

Somehow I doubt that Anna Nicole's death brings this to three. Seriously, Ann Richards, Molly Ivins and Anna Nicole... Eh, could be they're somewhere in the afterlife kicking back a few drinks.

First Ann Richards, now Molly Ivins...

2007-02-03T21:42:00.000-05:00

Molly Ivins died earlier this week. Somehow she made me feel like I was in on the joke with her. It's too difficult to explain. Even when I occasionally disagreed with her, I still admired her point of view. You know her (a nice collection of recent columns at that link)... Remember flipping to the back pages of the Evansville Courier's A section? That's usually where you'd find her. She'll be nearly impossible to replace.

Awww...

2007-01-30T22:50:00.000-05:00

What a sweet song from The Ditty Bops... Who da thunk it. :) Read the lyrics here if you're on a way slow connection.

Thanks, Scott.

Bad news... PR101

2007-01-30T21:52:00.000-05:00

What do you say when a reporter from a Fox station in NYC calls you as a source on an investigative report? Other than... "I hope we're the good guys." And then... "We can't possibly be the bad guys." You say, "Wednesday is going to be a 'Monday'."

My sister... My sister...

2007-01-29T19:35:00.000-05:00

My sister took down her blog. That's no fun. Anyone up for a letter writing campaign?

Also, check out sister cities for Indiana at Sister Cities International. Is Indianapolis a quadruplet? How does that work? It hardly seems fair that we'd have more than one. Clicking on that second link will take you to a page with one of the more awkward architectural photos of Indianapolis.

Going... Going...

2007-01-25T22:01:00.000-05:00

Okay, I've had enough with the titles for the time being. This post should really be called:

She Said "Never Talk to Strangers"

I have had a very weird week so far. Tuesday really did it for me though. It wasn't until the retelling that I realized how very strange the day had been. On my way to my car in the morning, I thought "I'm wearing heels and this alley is icy. I hope no one chases after me..." I hadn't completed the thought when I heard a man near the dumpster say "HEY!" Without thinking I said, "HEY WHAT?!" and kept walking. "Can I ask you a question?" I keep walking. "Um... Sure..." He proceeded to mumble something under his breath as I told him I couldn't understand him and quickly got in my car (heart pounding).

My work day was bizarre as well, but I won't go into that here.

Tuesday evening, I go out for drinks with Candy. Not good, not bad, but simply weird things keep happening. Just a few minutes after we were served our first drinks of the evening, a mumbling man approaches our table and asks Candy to buy him a drink because the bar is closed. "Um..." she says as she looks at me. It seems that the bartender at the restaurant had cut him off by telling him that the bar had closed (at 8 or 8:30pm). When she looks at me again, I interrupt to tell him that we're in the middle of an important conversation.

"Who in the fuck do you think you are?!" he said as he took a step closer. Again, without thinking I said, "Who in the fuck do you think YOU are?!" (Apparently there was some head bobbing going on when I said this.) He backed up and joked it off as well as a mumbling drunk who has just been cut off by the bartender could. Our server came over just a few moments later to ask him to let us enjoy our evening.

Weirdness has been following me this week. This was by far the most aggressive day during this week, but at least I do have a defense... Momma never said anything about not talking back to strangers. Did she?

Goooo... Monday?!?

2007-01-22T19:59:00.000-05:00

I'm breaking tradition here and skimping out with a combined Saturday/Tuesday thing. :) Still... Gooooo posting to my blog.

Let's see what I was doing three years ago...

In January 2004, I was:

Cheering for Howie.

Writing fiction-ish posts.

Working too much.

Thinking about where I've been.

Let's see what I was doing two years ago...

In January 2005, I was:

Posting much more often.

Quite a bit more social in the blog world.

Working too much.

Having weird dreams.

Let's see what I was doing last year....

Watching B-movies.

Participating in a ton of memes.

Surprisingly not mentioning work.

Looking for info on the famed Barbie hospital.

This year, I'm answering questions and going to roller derby.

The Masked Avenger Asked: Sorry, I have a question that doesn't relate to anything. In the Big Bang Theory, where did the original material that exploded originate?

I Answer: Little bits of navel fuzz from the last universe were floating around. When these bits floated into one another hard enough, the friction between the bits caused them to heat very slightly. (To understand the temperature, just imagine leaning on a wooden windowsill that has received direct light for approximately 90 minutes.) Soon the few bits became electromagnetic due to the friction and began to stick to one another at an alarming rate. The larger bits of navel fuzz began to create even larger amounts of friction, which we would now consider to be "large bangs". Thus, the Big Bang Theory. Alternately... I believe the answer may be "c".

Goooo... Tuesday!

2007-01-16T22:04:00.000-05:00

Seeing a theme here? Tuesdays have always been a favorite for some quirky reason.

___________________________________

Two of my three magazines from Santa came in today's mail. I read and read and read this evening. And now, so you can read and read and read too, I want to share this fun new DIY site: www.curbly.com

I'm not 100% sure why it's called curbly and I don't care enough to learn. There are entirely too many How Tos to bother with the details of the site.

Goo... Sunday!

2007-01-14T19:44:00.000-05:00

Or Saturday...However you want to look at it.

The Naptown Roller Girl's inaugural bout was enough to make me want to go again. Talk about people watching! Tons of different people are drawn to roller derby, probably for tons of different reasons. We sat behind the parents of girls from the opposing team and it was obvious that they'd been watching the sport for awhile. When our girls came out, the parents booed their hearts out, trash talked our girls for awhile and then settled in to listen to the rest of the Colts game.

With a pounding headache, we went to check out a rumor that one of my favorite "singers" from college was back in town. She is and she was holding court over a couple of guys at the bar. Not so much into that peanuts on the floor and the game on the TVs scene as I used to be.

JL and I stopped by the gas station to pick up some Tylenol and then out for another drink. Still with a pounding headache, I figured that somewhere quiet would be good. The Living Room Lounge wasn't it. Elbow Room looked packed and I was loosing my patience. Figuring that the Front Page Bar would be full of grumpy old white guys and relatively quiet, I suggested we check it out. I didn't see even one old white guy there. It was a pretty decent little bar. (They have a website but I can't find it now. In my search I read that it was Chicago-style. Big bar, a few booths and standing room apparently counts as Chicago-style.)

One martini later and my headache was gone. :)

Lessons learned this weekend:

Roller girls kick major booty.
The Front Page Bar might be an okay place to hang out on a weeknight.
Martinis cure all. (Or it could have been the Tylenol.)

P.S. - This makes me happy. From Ask MetaFilter: How practical(and I use the term loosely) is it to have snow shipped? I have a dear friend who was praying for snow on her birthday, but although it was looking hopeful, we are, in fact, in Texas.