GlorysGirl

I'm moving

2010-01-28T14:46:00.001-06:00

Don't worry mom - just my blog.

Find me at www.glorysgirl.com

I bought the domain and started playing around on Wordpress about a year ago. Finally decided to make the move, as it will allow me a lot more flexibility and opportunities to customize. Read: more work. Don't you like my new header pics of Glory over there already?

Notables

2010-01-27T21:39:00.002-06:00

Of today:

Apple announced its new tablet device, iPad. Immediately welcoming period jokes. Do they not have any women working at Apple or do they just not care? Oh well. I still want one, although I want a new Macbook Pro even more.
Tomorrow I start drinking coffee again. Over a month of detox and I think it's time to fall back in. Sorry tea - you are back to afternoons only.
I'm playing with moving my blog to Wordpress. No one probably cares but I'm excited about it. Stay tuned.
I added 6 new blogs to my Google Reader. I like being overwhelmed.

And the best for last: State of the Union.

I liked that Obama didn't shy away from pissing people off. He also didn't shy away from using his thumb and forefinger pressed together to make gestures.
It was the appropriate mix of hopeful and realistic. Much different than his campaign speeches. Less sound bites and more details.
Direct calls to action that didn't leave anyone out. And direct finger pointing at those who needed pointed at.
Included references to how the internet can be used for better transparency and to help with some of the challenges we face. Would've liked to see more but then again I did just download the WhiteHouse iPhone app. *nerd alert*
Definitely renewed my sense of hope that our entire government, both parties included, will step up and fix things without letting themselves get in the way. I love that Obama talked about perpetual campaigning. Stop campaigning and start winning victories for Americans.
Best decision ever: turn the tv off after the speech was over. I'm enjoying just letting my own thoughts soak in before being bombarded with the opinions and criticisms of all others. I should do this more often.

Clarification

2010-01-25T21:18:00.003-06:00

My mom got mad about my last post. Let me clarify - we are only slightly annoying, definitely not stupid, and have only gotten weird since passing adolescence. Although I guess putting a lamb in diapers in your minivan might qualify as weird so perhaps I should say fourth grade. Which when I think about it might also qualify it as a zoo. More like a petting zoo but still.

This apology should serve to subtract at least 25 cents off the 50 cents I owe you for half that avocado.

love,
Ash

The Zoo of Life

2010-01-25T11:46:00.002-06:00

Cold hard truth.

Happiness is ...

2010-01-24T22:24:00.005-06:00

weekends with good friends and family

beautiful, sunny weather
walks with my mom and the pups
long swims
yummy food (SOMA, Empire Cafe, mom's cooking)
sleeping in two days in a row
seeing Pat next weekend
happy hedgehogs

Baby + Bingo = Thursday happiness

2010-01-21T23:29:00.004-06:00

Let's just say that seeing Stephanie and two week old Jacques after work and then hitting the hall for some good ol' fashioned $6 pitchers and BINGO is one great way to spend a Thursday evening. Now let's hurry up weekend!

There were a few break-ins in the neighborhood today. My first thought was "I hope they didn't steal my laptop". How lame am I? Perhaps I should purchase this laptop cover that disguises your laptop as an old leather book. Because that would really blend in with my paperbacks by David Sedaris and AJ Jacobs, my Guerilla Bridesmaid book, and the famous How to Win a Fight with a Conservative (which I may need to reread given the last few days).

Speaking of being more appreciative, yesterday was Penguin Appreciation Day and apparently today is Squirrel Appreciation Day. Where does it end? Sometimes I feel like it's acceptable to just make up these appreciation days. In fact maybe I'll make one up for myself. I'll declare February 18th as Ashley Appreciation Day. You all have less than a month to prepare.

Penguins: to appreciate or fear?

2010-01-20T21:05:00.003-06:00

It's National Penguin Appreciation Day. Ya I didn't know that existed either. Penguins are pretty much the only bird I'm not afraid of. It may have something to do with the fact that they cannot fly and they look like mini maitre d's. If you think about it penguins are pretty high up on the "liked birds" list. I mean what other birds get Morgan Freeman as their official narrator?

In case you want to know more here's a blog post about eight penguins you should be aware of. Actually make that nine penguins because they left out the one that should be most on your radar.

Poor Wallace and Gromit. There's nothing scarier than a penguin pretending to be a rooster, using a gun and stealing diamonds. Especially one that rides around your house on a model train. Nothing.

Travel envy

2010-01-19T22:40:00.002-06:00

I just was looking at some Facebook friends' travel photos and have serious travel envy. My thought - plan a super fun adventure for my birthday this year. That way I have 8 months still to figure it out. GO TIME.

Relaxing weekend ... at least for me

2010-01-17T20:53:00.004-06:00

It was a weekend of simply relaxing and actually taking advantage of what the weekend generally never is - recovering from the previous week and preparing for the one to come. I'll be honest - most weekends I focus so much time trying to get every ounce of fun out of (and I am not complaining about this) that I spend Monday trying not to fall asleep on my keyboard.

I did wind up today feeling very tired from watching 30,000 people (ok maybe I didn't catch them all) run in the Chevron Houston Marathon. Seriously, between standing there for a few hours and watching so many incredible people run past I felt like even I needed a nap! It was so inspiring to see how many different people came out to participate. All ages and shapes and sizes and backgrounds. If I were feeling poetic there definitely is an easy metaphor to be made of it.

I think almost as inspiring was watching the supporters who were out there. We were all waiting for just a few people out of the pack. Anxiously searching the crowds and getting our text alerts. But everyone that passed received cheers and claps and encouragement - it didn't matter who knew who but rather just supporting everyone who would undertake such a huge challenge!

So I'm proud of my best friend (who certainly accomplished something grand just a week before the big 2-5), I got some practice with the cheering and crowd scanning before PB's next month, and I got to enjoy beautiful weather outside with tens of thousands of my closest Houstonian friends. Pretty good end to the weekend.

Letter of response

2010-01-16T15:56:00.001-06:00

Dear Pat Robertson,

I know that you know that all press is good press, so I appreciate the shout-out. And you make God look like a big mean bully who kicks people when they are down, so I'm all over that action. But when you say that Haiti has made a pact with me, it is totally humiliating. I may be evil incarnate, but I'm no welcher. The way you put it, making a deal with me leaves folks desperate and impoverished. Sure, in the afterlife, but when I strike bargains with people, they first get something here on earth -- glamour, beauty, talent, wealth, fame, glory, a golden fiddle. Those Haitians have nothing, and I mean nothing. And that was before the earthquake. Haven't you seen "Crossroads"? Or "Damn Yankees"? If I had a thing going with Haiti, there'd be lots of banks, skyscrapers, SUVs, exclusive night clubs, Botox -- that kind of thing. An 80 percent poverty rate is so not my style. Nothing against it -- I'm just saying: Not how I roll. You're doing great work, Pat, and I don't want to clip your wings -- just, come on, you're making me look bad. And not the good kind of bad. Keep blaming God. That's working. But leave me out of it, please. Or we may need to renegotiate your own contract.

Best, Satan

(from the Star Tribune of Minneapolis/St. Paul)

To be done here

2010-01-14T22:41:00.005-06:00

I want to write tonight but I feel like it's been an emotional day. I really do want to take a moment to just acknowledge how as absolutely horrific and saddening as the tragedy in Haiti has been, it is a blessing that an event such as that has certainly trivialized what might otherwise seem like stressful things in my own life. I have such a wealth of joy in my life and I appreciate all that I have been given.

I heard God in this City by Chris Tomlin today and initially thought of my Antigua surgery teams. There is a line that says "Greater things have yet to come and greater things are still to be done in this city". It just reminds me so much of all the incredible things that our volunteers have done thus far and will continue to do this season and for all that will come. But the song also really speaks to what's going on in Haiti too and also in my own life. I think right now I'm really just taking a step back from everything and taking time in my own head and own heart to have calm and quiet. To trust that greater things will come.

Verse 1.
You're the God of this city
You're the King of these people
You're the Lord of this nation
You Are

You're the light in this darkness
You're the hope to the hopeless
You're the peace to the restless
You are

Bridge:
For there is no one like our God
There is no one like You God

Chorus 1:
For greater things have yet to come
And greater things are still to be done
In this city
Greater things have yet to come
And greater things are still to be done here

Verse 2:
You're the Lord of Creation
The Creator of all things
You're the King above all kings
You Are

You're the strength in our weakness
You're the love to the broken
You're the joy in the sadness
You Are

Bridge:

Chorus 2:
For greater things have yet to come
Greater things are still to be done
In this city
When glory shines from hearts alive
With praise for You and love for You
In this city

Greater things have yet to come
Greater things are still to be done
In this city
Greater things have yet to come
And greater things are still to be done here

Teeth and pants

2010-01-13T19:07:00.007-06:00

So last night I had this super vivid dream about my teeth falling out because I used too much whitening gel. Somewhat random? Yes. It was one of those incredible dreams where I remember with such intensity exactly how it felt. First one tooth broke and then fell out completely. Then another and another. At first I was trying to save them all to get to the dentist to have them put back in but eventually I stopped trying, resigning myself to having dentures for the rest of my life. Let's just say I was sure to run my tongue over my front teeth when I woke up to make sure they were still there.

I am not someone who generally remembers my dreams, especially as I've gotten older. It's always interesting though when you have a really unusual dream to try to analyze what it could mean. Well let's face it - I analyze everything so I guess why would dreams be any different?

Apparently dreams about teeth falling out or crumbling are rather common. The meanings, however, are pretty varied:

Teeth are a representation of your appearance. So these dreams reflect anxiety about your appearance or how others perceive you.
Teeth are used to bite and chew, which somehow can be interpreted as power. Teeth dreams represent a fear of losing power or a feeling of powerlessness.
Bad or failing teeth dreams mean you are putting your faith in man rather than in God.
In Greek culture, rotting teeth dreams mean someone close to you will become sick or die.
According to the Chinese your teeth will fall out if you tell a lie.

Wow so pretty negative. I either have no faith, no self-esteem, bad morals, or just plain ol' bad luck. Of course thankfully I'm saved by the last bit of the article that says dreams about losing teeth symbolize money. Thanks tooth fairy. - you can come whenever you'd like.

Also, in case you missed this:

Pants on the ground. Pants on the ground. Looking like a fool with yo pants on the ground.

"When you're a jet you're a jet all the way ..."

2010-01-10T21:43:00.004-06:00

Fabulous weekend hanging with the Wilsons and PB in College Station. Yes I do realize that I just said "fabulous" and "College Station" in the same sentence. It really was so great though to hang out with good friends, get a tad bit competitive in some killer board games, show Pat my old stomping grounds, eat some good food (and some not so good food), and see my honey fly off into the not yet sunset. What better way to spend a few barely above freezing days in January?

It's funny because I remember when I was a kid we used to play in this basketball gym at my old church Salem in Tomball. It was a two story building and the ceiling of the gym was so tall. It seemed to be this montrosorous expanse of a basketball court. We moved away from Tomball for awhile and I remember when we found ourselves back in Houston we went back to Salem. I walked into that same gym and it felt so small. What a literal example of a changed perspective.

I felt the same way being back in College Station. How much it has grown. I lived out so far from town and now it seems as if the town spread so much that my old house is almost right in the midst of it all. It's also just so strange to think of who I was then and how far I've come. What seemed so important then is just an afterthought of the past now.

I try to remember that when I begin worrying about something now. That time will tell what is to come and what seems to be scary at this moment will be just a point along the path that will lead somewhere wonderful. It's nice to keep that in mind when life seems to be moving along without much of my input sometimes.

Time for a new week.

Hook'em

2010-01-08T00:20:00.004-06:00

Still proud to be a Texas Longhorn. Always number one to me.

Three Words

2010-01-06T11:11:00.007-06:00

There's a wonderful, and challenging, task floating around thanks to Chris Brogan that's about Three Words. Everyone has their own take on the exercise but mainly it centers around choosing three words that will guide your intentions this year. They can be nouns, verbs, adjectives, whatever! It is more about the process of being purposeful about the greater picture rather than the traditional way of setting specific resolutions.

Frank Barry (thx to Jon Swanson) has a good idea about beginning to come up with your three words. Ask yourself these questions:

What do I want to finish?
What do I want to change?
What do I want to maintain? (Sometimes you are actually doing fine about some things).
What do I want to refine?
What do I want to stop doing?
What do I need to do, though wanting has nothing to do with it?
What can I finally throw away?
What do I want to go back to?

Of course I immediately decided I wasn't going to participate because it seems way too overwhelming. But I appreciate a challenge so I thought I'd try.

My Three Words

OPEN: with myself and with others. to opportunities and experiences.

SEEK: active pursuit. stepping forward.

FOUNDATION: building solid ground underneath relationships, dreams, and self.

What do I know

2010-01-05T22:50:00.002-06:00

Do you ever have those days where you feel like you know so little? Like you grasp so small of a piece of the entire puzzle? It's tough for someone like me who likes to be in control, to have a hand in everything and to plan plan plan. I learn more and more every day that life is patience and flexibility. It's all about building a future out of clay that can be molded rather than stone that does not shift. Working through the small steps, taking things as they come, and smiling at the joy of not knowing the entire road ahead. Having faith in the bigger picture before it is in front of me in its entirety.

I made You promises a thousand times
I tried to hear from Heaven
But I talked the whole time
I think I made You too small
I never feared You at all No
If You touched my face would I know You?
Looked into my eyes could I behold You?

What do I know of You
Who spoke me into motion?
Where have I even stood
But the shore along Your ocean?
Are You fire? Are You fury?
Are You sacred? Are You beautiful?
What do I know? What do I know of Holy?

- Addison Road

Oh hi 2010

2010-01-04T16:44:00.004-06:00

I hope that not doing a New Year's post until January 4th isn't setting the tone of procrastination for the year to come. Oops. Or maybe I do since the reason I didn't blog was because I was in Seattle having a blast with the fabulous PB and his family. Either way, welcome to the New Year. I cannot wait for all the wonderful things that it will bring.

Seattle was wonderful. Rainy and cold and full of sneezing and runny noses. But still wonderful. I got to meet some more of the Bergman clan and some of Pat's friends and to see his old stomping grounds. Plus we got to go skiing which I am paying for in that my calves/knees/arms/butt are still killing me. Totally worth it. It was so nice to actually be relaxed and on vacation and busy and just having a weekend where I honestly didn't think about it ever having to end until it actually did. I got to enjoy the trip from moment to moment. That might sound weird but it's a big deal for someone like me. So yes. Seattle was wonderful.

Now it's a new year. Wow. I wish I could say I have thought of resolutions or cared to make any but in actuality I feel like for the first time I am feeling pretty ok to live at least a little more in the moment. So maybe instead I'll make a list of resolutions for January. And then when February comes around I'll see then.

For January:

I'll finish American Gods. And one of my other books I ordered from Amazon. Haven't picked "the one" yet but I'm thinking it might be The Time Traveler's Wife. I'm sticking in the fiction mode.
I'll do something adventurous. Maybe take that rock climbing intro class. Or actually schedule Pat and my flying lesson if we can find a weekend that works.
I'll drink less coffee and more tea. I've been sick so this is easy right now.
I'll check things off my to-do list that I kept putting off until after the holidays. Like making a dental appointment. And a hair cut appointment. And getting frames for my pictures. And ... well I'll stop there. I better leave something for February.

Wow that is officially the most boring and achievable list of resolutions of all time.

HAPPY TWENTY-TEN!

Looking back at 2009

2009-12-30T11:44:00.007-06:00

The end of the year means lists, lists, lists and since I love lists all year long this is the perfect excuse for it. I thought a good preface on this last day of 2009 would be to think back to all the things I accomplished this year. You know since I'm not sure I accomplished my actual NY Resolutions from 2009 ...

Things I'm proud I did (or didn't do) in 2009:

Stopped making excuses for other people and put myself first. That's a biggie I know and likely influences a lot of the following ...
Quit my job and moved back to Texas. As much as I love San Francisco I know it was the right decision for my life for this time. Plus I'm getting some quality time with my amazing family and friends here in Houston.
Went to Europe for two weeks alone. Saw fabulous things. Felt lonely. Felt fulfilled. Felt strong and proud of myself for doing it.
Went to the Northeast for two weeks and soaked up time with some of my favorite people. And played enormous amounts of rummy.
Read. Books. This was on the resolution list for 2009 and I did it. There's plenty more (four new books arrived from Amazon yesterday) to come in 2010.
Raced for the Cure again.
Found a wonderful guy and gave him and myself a chance. And am so incredibly blessed and glad to have done so.
Took (mostly) better care of myself. Mentally, physically, spiritually.
Turned 25 without (much of a) crisis.

Here comes 2010.

New Year's NON-Resolutions

2009-12-30T09:00:00.005-06:00

I read a genius blog post over on Healthy and Simple about what Kevin is resolving NOT to do in the New Year. Hilarious as always (if you do want to make a resolution he adds "If you are thinking of making one resolution please please please don’t let it be going to the gym more often. Particularly if you live in San Francisco and go to my gym.") and a great idea. Kevin writes:

Each year I resolve to find new ways to avoid making New Year’s Resolutions. So far my success rate is 100 percent. I have yet to fail to not keep a resolution I didn’t make. So I can look back over the year almost gone with a sense of achievement and satisfaction, knowing I succeeded in meeting my goal. I haven’t done any of the things I set out not to do.

Of course when he lists his non-resolutions you can see that they are more laughter inducing than anything, including such things as NOT winning the Nobel Prize, NOT climbing Mount Everest, and NOT dating Lindsey Lohan. But what a great idea, in both a comedic way and on a more serious note.

So this year I resolve NOT to:

Run a marathon. Sorry Pat, it just ain't happening. I'll consider a shorter distance.
Force myself to finish books that I'm just not into (see previous post on the subject)
Eat meat. I think vegetarianism is still the way to go for me personally. I feel great about it, even living back in Texas where people still say "you're a what?"
Let my mother do my taxes ... entirely. It's time I start learning.
Become a world famous actress.
Become a world famous singer.
Become a world famous anything ... except maybe awesome person.
Buy things just because they're on sale.
Forget how blessed I am by all of the opportunities in my life, the talents I've been given, and the people who love me.

Sense and sensitivity

2009-12-29T21:26:00.006-06:00

Today thanks to the beauty of Google alerts I found a blog post from a blood donor who had a negative experience. That story is irrelevant to this blog other than to say there was one part of the post that struck me and that was how she started it off by saying "Maybe I'm just being too sensitive but ..."

It got me thinking about how many times the majority of us don't let ourselves be sensitive enough. Or at least I don't. I brush things off. When someone's rude I try to assume they're just having a bad day. I make excuses for people or I accept their excuses they've made themselves on my behalf. It's actually, I find, a good way to live and makes for a more positive day. But sometimes it can backfire.

See just like the blogger had a reason to complain about her bad donation experience (I mean you're trying to give blood you should at least have as good an experience as getting a needle in the arm can be!), so we all sometimes have reason to be hurt. Of course you have to be careful to not "cry wolf" too often and make mountains out of mole hills since then you're screwed when the mountains come around. I think it just was an eye opener to me that being sensitive isn't a weakness; it's just part of being human.

On a happier note: off to SEATTLE tomorrow to hang with the Bergmans (and one Bergman in particular of course), ski, see the needle/fish market/coffee delights and see if Ranger really can measure up to Glory. Don't worry Glory, you'll always be my favorite.

What I miss about SF

2009-12-28T22:10:00.003-06:00

I loved this post I found from the SF Appeal about Things San Franciscans Like: Dog Ownership. The best quote:

I recently showed a picture of my boyfriend's dog to a friend who lives in Seattle, and she looked at it for only 10-seconds, and then started talking about something else as though she didn't have a camera phone photo of a dog right in front of her eyes. Didn't she realize that she was looking at a dog? I didn't say anything to her, and instead simply replaced the phone in my purse and pretended that we were still friends.

I knew I loved San Francisco for a reason. Thankfully I can still manage to be dog-obsessed in Houston, even if the restaurants have some "city health code" that means you can't bring your dog to eat. There goes Glory's birthday party.

Another short week

2009-12-27T20:42:00.003-06:00

Back to reality tomorrow but at least it's another short week, as I'm leaving for Seattle on Wednesday and New Year's is on Friday. I could really get used to this whole vacation thing. I think every week would be way better if it was only a few days of work and then something fun like Christmas or skiing at the end. If only ...

With the holidays this week I spent some time today catching up on my blog reading. Some interesting tidbits:

Be careful when hyphenating your last name since it might just cost you a flight to Turkey.
I may have to fly sans underwear on Wednesday.
This is what I'm asking for next Christmas: portable, contemporary fireplace.

It was a great Christmas week and I'm so blessed to have another incredible week to look forward to. Now time to read some American Gods (thanks Kat) and head to bed. Plus thank goodness I still have a job because there's some things I just don't think I could do to pay the bills ...

(photo courtesy of The Daily What)

Feeling merry

2009-12-25T23:16:00.003-06:00

My first Christmas in seven years to not have to travel home for the holidays. It felt like the day snuck on me a bit more this way. No preparing to drive or fly somewhere. No trying to get gifts bought and wrapped before a certain time (other than this morning of course). It was more laid back of course though too. The first year that I had to be woken up to unwrap gifts. Wow, I must really be getting old.

I'm enjoying these years of my life between being a kid and having kids where Christmas is a much more relaxing occasion. And one with better gifts. Santa (aka mom) brought me a beautiful watch. Plus some of the best stocking stuffers to date. It's the mid-twenties years of sleeping in, opening gifts at a leisurely pace and actually getting to see what everyone has gotten, playing games, and political arguments at the dinner table. Ok that's every family gathering.

It's been a long year with great moments, tough moments, and certainly a lot of change. I am so blessed, especially thanks to the peace and joy I have in my life because of the little baby born in a manger so many years ago.

Merry Christmas, Peace on Earth, Joy to the World!

This is ...

2009-12-22T08:35:00.000-06:00

... making me laugh this morning.

The best Christmas present ever ...

2009-12-17T22:09:00.003-06:00

... came in the mail today. It is for my sister's fiance. If he doesn't like it I will never speak to him again because clearly he has no taste or refinement. Let's just say it is only for those who appreciate the finer things in life. And by "finer things" I mean more ridiculous.

Like this scale that weighs you in terms of animals rather than pounds form Lazybone.

(thx The Daily What)

8 Questions

2009-12-16T08:43:00.006-06:00

Seth Godin wrote a post yesterday asking 8 questions and why. I thought it would be a good challenge. It's a little more career-oriented than I am so I won't be surprised if each of my answers morphs into something less professionally focused and more of a person reflection.

Who are you trying to please? I would like to think I'm only trying to please God, myself, and those who love me. But in reality it often seems that much of the time I focus my energy on the things that matter least. Getting that last email sent before the end of the day. Rushing to check things off the list. I've also learned that unless I take care of pleasing the first two it's going to be a whole lot harder to please the rest.

What are you promising? I loved Megan's wedding vows to Donny because they acknowledged the promise of hardship and challenges but also the commitment to overcome. I'm promising to give what I can reasonably give in the amount that the situation calls for. Ambiguous? Of course but I think the rule of thumb is that in my life I try to only promise what I can live up to. Most of the time I think it's a lot.

How much money are you trying to make? Seemingly not very much. No but in reality it is funny because in my field of work money is clearly not the objective AND I think it's made me a better person. When I moved to California I remember working out exactly how little I could possibly make and still survive. Anything above that was a bonus. Let's just say there was not much of a bonus. But it has taught me two important lessons: that you can be paid in much more than gold and silver and that God will always provide.

How much freedom are you willing to trade for opportunity? I think it would be more meaningful to replace the word "freedom" with "time". Let's face it - the majority of what we give up in order to bring more opportunity into our lives is time. Taking classes or going to networking events rather than the number of other more relaxing and sometimes "in-the-moment" enjoyable things that are tempting at the end of a long day.

I will also say something really personal that has been on my mind lately, and that is the freedom of "it's all about me" that you have to give up when you fall in love with someone. Of course I won't cower away from saying that falling in love with someone in the military maybe brings this to mind even more but everyone faces the same dilemma. Trading the freedom of living where you want, working where you want, making the plans you want ... for the opportunity of having a partner in life. It may be cheesy but clearly the opportunity is worth is. And the fact of the matter is that more opportunities will arise from it that you maybe would otherwise have never seen. Love is an opportunity that is worth the cost.

What are you trying to change? My main objective would be to change the way that people interact with one another. For people to focus on making meaningful differences, to listen, to learn, to understand one another. I hear so many stories at my job from doctors who go to Guatemala to help the people and wind up being changed themselves in ways they never would have imagined. Opening ourselves up to the possibility of becoming a better person every single day.

What do you want people to say about you? I used to say I wanted people to consider me "a force". That I could juggle a multitude of tasks and objectives, swoop in and solve problems, impress people, bring about positive change, and make a mean cup of coffee. I don't feel that way anymore. Now I want people to say that their life is better because of me. Be that because of my ability to swoop in and solve problems or maybe just because they feel like I'm someone they can call when they need someone to listen. Either way, I want people to say that every day I try to be a good example, a good friend, and a good addition to the world.

Which people? Is it too much to say everyone? Yes of course I know that it is. I think it was Bill Cosby that said "I don't know the key to success but the key to failure is trying to please everybody". I want the people who I love and that love me to say that I'm a good friend. I want the people who see me on a daily basis to say that I'm a good example. I want the people who truly know me to say that I'm a good addition to the world. As far as everyone else, in this world and this day in age it's enough for them to just say something positive!

Do we care about you? This question was likely posed for those in the business world but as far as THIS blog is concerned YOUR answer better be yes. Or else you sure wasted a lot of time reading this long post.

What happens in Vegas ...

2009-12-15T22:39:00.003-06:00

... clearly doesn't stay in Vegas. Not in this day in age with endless technology and connectedness. Plus, the cowboys came home and so did we.

What I learned in Vegas:

5 Hour Energy really does work. I'm not sure how. I'm not sure I want to know how. Also, half a botle translates into way more than 2.5 hours.
Cowboys will two-step to anything. This includes Jimmy Buffet, Tom Petty, Dave Matthews, and whatever hard-rock song the band played that I didn't recognize.
The GO Rooms at The Flamingo really are rocking. The handicapped deluxe rooms have bars to steady yourself in the shower. I'm really not sure which is more useful when in Vegas.
Kat's friends are fabulous. How a bachelorette party can include half naked men, alcohol, AND discussions about cortisol and the response mechanism in men versus women I will never understand. But it did and it was awesome.
At least 50% of the people watching the lions at MGM were likely wondering when the trainer was going to be attacked. And then we realized this was MGM, not the Mirage, and Roy was no where to be seen.
The Thunder Down Under is basically an N'Sync concert with 95% less clothing and 80% worse dancing. It is also once of the most entertaining things I've ever seen. I'm convinced that at least half of the fun is the chance to scream and clap Bye-Bye Birdie style.
Tapas are always successful. As is sangria.
If you want to play for a long time with only a little bit of money then turn to video poker. Warning: you will likely also go into a hypnotic state after 5 minutes of playing ... but this can be a good thing.
There really is something fascinating about that many neon lights in one place. It's like endless Christmas.
My sister is amazing and I can't wait for the wedding. Until then we've got 4 months where I still get a partner in crime to share the Messick last name.

CONGRATS, LOVE, AND VIVA LAS VEGAS!

Hot and gooey

2009-12-14T23:34:00.003-06:00

No this is not my Vegas post. I know the title is misleading. Vegas roundup post tomorrow. For now I will just say that even though it is ridiculous and unnecessary ... I need this:

And so it begins ...

2009-12-11T14:23:00.002-06:00

Leaving in a few hours ... already stopped by the ATM.

See you on the flipside blogosphere.

Kids have the best ideas

2009-12-10T13:20:00.001-06:00

My Kind of Tomorrow
by Sophie Weiland

Tomorrow I want it to snow up to 100 feet. I want the temperature to be 60 degrees. I want the roads to be clear.

I want it to be my birthday. I want 1,000,000 presents. I want a skateboard with flames on it.

I also want it to rain gold and $1,000,000 in my room.

I want my house to turn into a pretty castle.

I want to get whatever I want.

In my backyard, I want a waterslide that comes out of my window and down into my giant pool with a giant hot tub.

I want to ride in a giant limousine.

Favorite new blog: The Daily What

2009-12-09T22:17:00.005-06:00

It has brought me to such things as these:

Jesus Christ and Santa greeting card set (just in time for the holidays)

Dinosaurs with Eyelashes

Mountain-Dew scented Nintendo soap

Cassette Player speakers

And the cutest kid ever playing the Ukelele:

Thank you The Daily What. I love you.

I give up

2009-12-08T20:55:00.002-06:00

No seriously I give up. I can't take it anymore. It is too hard. I give up ...

... on trying to read Enduring Love by Ian McEwan.

I'm not sure exactly what I was thinking trying to read a book by the author of Atonement. Even the title sounds lengthy and it is only two words. Chris, Pat's brother who I borrowed it from, told me he only got through three pages. I'm stunned that I made it through 101. I kept giving it second chances. Thinking it would surely get better. In actuality it got worse because not only did the storyline not pick up but the writing style became obnoxious.

In my opinion you can have a good book that has bad style but good story (think Old Man and the Sea by Hemingway), good style but bad story (think A Picture of Dorian Gray by Wilde) or even a good story but complicated style that makes it somewhat annoying to read (think Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver, which took me three tries but is now one of my favorites).

This book has none of the above. It started with a somewhat boring story and more boring style. Half of the book talks about scientific journal articles the main character is researching (skim). Then it falls apart around page 80 when it begins switching back and forth between points of view on who is telling the story. Epic fail.

So yes I give up. Atlas Shrugged, I plan to save you for later. Right now I need something to remind me of my love for reading again.

Hello David Sedaris.

Today I'm thankful for ...

2009-12-06T21:44:00.001-06:00

A reason to watch the National Championship game on 1/7/2010. HOOK'EM

Leggings so that I can wear skanky clothes in Vegas and not freeze. I'm coveting this pair above. I bought a different pair for $165 less. I think that's a good decision. I think.

My car starting rather than having a dead battery. After the chaos of Memorial City Mall I was dreading being stuck in the parking lot.

Pat's running shoes in my closet that make me think of him.

My mom's vegetarian chili.

The ridiculousness of Law and Order SVU. And the riveting drama of Brothers and Sisters.

Text messages.

My Nintendo still working after twenty years. And being the best of all time at Tetris and Dr. Mario.

Weeks that end in trips to Vegas.

Open letter

2009-12-05T23:36:00.000-06:00

Dear Longhorns,

I am too young to have a heart attack. Please take some time to reevaluate your game strategy before January 7th.

Sincerely,
Ashley

The waves

2009-12-03T21:53:00.003-06:00

There's a story in Tuesdays With Morrie that goes roughly like this:

There was a wave bobbing along in the ocean, enjoying the sun and the wind, until he notices the other waves ahead of him crashing into the shore. "This is terrible," the wave says, "look what will happen to me."

Then along comes another wave. It sees the first wave and asks, "Why do you look so grim?" The first wave says, "Don't you understand? We're all going to crash and be nothing. Isn't it terrible?"

The second wave says, "But don't you understand. You aren't a wave. You're an ocean."

To be honest I think in the book the story is supposed to reflect that we are all part of a greater world. I think the way I take it though is this: whether enjoying the sun or crashing into the shore, it is all just part of the greater picture of our lives.

Some days when I get reflective, be it because of a certain day or a certain song or just a feeling, I have trouble remember life as something more than just individual moments. It is a sum of moments. They may be sad or happy, past or present, full of others or just on my own. It all adds up to something though - an entire ocean of strength and faith. And love, which is always what matters after all.

Life lessons from Real Simple

2009-12-02T22:33:00.002-06:00

Events reveal people's characters; they don't determine them.
Lying, by omission or commission, is a bad idea.
Sex always gives you an answer, although not necessarily the one you want.
Most talents are transferable.
Fashions fades; style is eternal.
You can't fake love.
Mean doesn't go away.
No one's perfect.
Ask for help.
Keep your eye on the prize and your hand on the plow.

(by Amy Bloom)

I'd like to add:

Apologize. There's more of a chance you'll regret not doing so than doing so.
Trust yourself, but get a second opinion.
You only ever see the tip of the iceberg. This applies to your own life and to what you see of others' lives.
A good defense is good. Being defensive is not.
In cold weather always wear one more layer than you think you should.

And thanks to @agiek:

Jack’s Life Lessons

Things I Love Today: Dec 1, 2009

2009-12-01T13:17:00.003-06:00

My mom bought this (at CostCo) and didn't like it (crazy) so now it's all mine. Fabulous. Vegan. Dairy Free. Gluten Free. Wheat Free. Cholesterol Free. All natural. I mean seriously I could live on this stuff.

Mrs. May's Ultimate Crunch

World Silhouette Wall Graphic from SolanaGraphicStudios

Necklush scarves

GAP (RED) Stella Tshirt in honor of today being World AIDS Day

(and this being an awesome tshirt with an even more awesome cause!)

Wilson Wedding Weekend

2009-11-30T21:34:00.001-06:00

Say that three times fast.

I guess you could say the weekend started on Thursday night by going to watch the Longhorns stomp the Aggies (sorry Donny) at the Gauthey house and then spending the night with my girls at Becca's. Let's just say the girltalk topics ranged quite a bit. It was a great ending to a wonderful Thanksgiving and a great beginning of the weekend.

Friday was hustle and bustle almost all day, from picking up my dress (which fit - thank goodness!), getting my nails done with the bride, and fitting in a little family time before heading to the rehearsal dinner. Rather than rehearsing the walk down the aisle we instead rehearsed our bowling skills. Let's just say Donny should be glad that Megan was better at marrying him than she is at bowling. Ok we both were blaming it on not wanting to mess up our nails. Either way, it was a great way to relax and have fun before the big day. We then headed to Becca's for the lingerie shower and general night of gossip, wine, and cake. And then off to the hotel room to settle in for a little bit of sleep before wedding day.

Saturday was a long, long day. Honestly guys have no idea how good they have it. Of course it's fun to all hang out and get ready together but seriously between the late night, the early morning, and the day of primping I think we were all exhausted before 5 o'clock was anywhere close. Shockingly I was super nervous. I can't imagine what I'll be like on my own wedding day. I can't really say what I was nervous about either. Of course everything went wonderfully, I cried to my own (and others) surprise, and after a year of counting down Miss Gauthey was officially Mrs. Wilson. And then of course the party really started.

Highlights: seeing Megan in her beautiful gown, hanging out with old friends and new friends, the bride and groom's first booty dance, the awesome salad (ok and the cake balls were pretty good too), my dress not falling off, having my parents there to watch it all (and get some ideas for my sister's wedding), dancing our butt's off on the tiny, sweaty dance floor, and being a part of a day that celebrated my best friend and the love of her life (who's of course a great guy too!).

And to believe that we start this whole process over again with my sister's Bachelorette party in less than two weeks. April will be here before I know it!

CONGRATS again to the Wilsons!

Thanks-givings

2009-11-26T17:45:00.001-06:00

I'm thankful for a full house, good wine, and cool weather. For best friends who I get to see tonight, for a family that I love more than ever, and the best Thanksgiving morning wake up yet. For a job where I gt to help make a difference, for enough money to get by and save a little in the process, and for the opportunities that have been given to me.

I'm thankful for a wonderful guy who makes me smile and always opens the car door for me. For a mom who takes care of me. For a great past, a wonderful present, and an even better future. For the wedding weekend that is coming up, for Christmas being around the corner, and for spending New Year's in Seattle.

I'm thankful for Longhorn football, comfortable jeans, and hot showers. For the little things and the big things in life. For a soft, sweet old dog who always brings a grin to my face. For a good night's sleep or a reason to stay up late. For a roof over my head, food on the table, and pumpkin candles.

I'm thankful for love. For soft blankets. For good conversations. For life-changing decisions. For my health. For going to Vegas in two weekends.

I'm thankful for laughter, for faith, and for all the blessings in my life.

Happy Thanksgiving and Hook'em Horns.

Thanksgiving prayer

2009-11-25T08:13:00.003-06:00

I saw this in the Chronicle this morning and liked its simplicity and call to serve others:

We thank you for food and remember the hungry.
We thank you for health and remember the sick.
We thank you for freedom and remember the enslaved.

May these remembers stir us to service
That our gifts may be used for others.

And a couple Thanksgiving cartoons for good measure:

Classic

Political

Don't Worry I'm a Vegetarian

The rest of us after Thanksgiving

Happy day before Thanksgiving!

Thanklessness

2009-11-24T20:45:00.001-06:00

I am sure that in two days time the obvious Thanksgiving post will be here and I'll be happily talking about all of the blessings in my life. Because there are so many blessings. Seriously. But in order to ramp up for that I think it best to think about all the things I'm NOT thankful for. Like:

Traffic, especially those caused by minor car accidents. Move your car to the shoulder people.
You Belong With Me by Taylor Swift. I don't mind her music but enough already with this song. It is on every single station all day long.
Mosquitoes. Enough said.
Drinks that are too strong. I am not in college anymore. My objective is to be able to drink without gagging not to be dancing on the bar with my underwear on my head.
Car insurance that is as much per month as my car payment. I might as well just have two Kias so if I wreck one I can just trash it and drive the other.
Hurt feelings. And jealousy. And broken hearts. And misunderstandings. And losing friends.
People that think you have to wait until after Thanksgiving to decorate for Christmas. Lame. (PB this is directed at you. I'm thankful for you. Just not your scrooginess so there)
Slow internet connections.
When things, events, people don't live up to your expectations. This is obviously unavoidable.
Broken finger nails.
When I have to stop hitting the snooze button because it really is time to get up. One more time. No really it is time to get up.
Republicans. Just kidding - I'm thankful for them. They keep me entertained.
Humidity.

Ok that's enough unthankfulness. Glad I got that out of my system so that now I can focus on just being thankful for the rest of the week. Mostly. I mean I'm only human right?

Uh oh credit card

2009-11-23T22:21:00.001-06:00

Etsy has some competition now. I found a new website today called Supermarket from which I will decorate in my imagination my future home. This of course is how I waste hours on the internet.

Flock of ducks
perfect inside or out

Sphere Chaos light shades
these would be great over a big comfy reading chair - I'd love the contrast of plush pillows and these modern hard designs

Peace Idea 97 print
I would love to hang this by the back door to remind me to spread peace throughout every day

Animal Alphabet poster
if I have a little girl I would love this in her room one day! ok and they have it in shades of blue/green so I guess a boy would work too.

iPhone case
because really how many cases can one person really need?

Things I Love Today: Nov 24, 2009

2009-11-22T22:47:00.003-06:00

I am so in love with this gold swingy dress. Too bad I don't live in SF anymore.

(dress from H&M)

Just took a shower and the smell of this puts me to sleep with a smile on my face.

(Tom's Lavendar body wash)

Let the Wild Rumpus begin

(Where The Wild Things Are pillow from Urban Outfitters)

(Pat Bergman - guess I don't just love him "today" though - aww)

Things I Love Today: Nov 20 2009

2009-11-20T13:42:00.003-06:00

This Hot Water Dragon print from Anthropologie

These cute Elephant Bookends from the Moma Store

I'm coveting these shorts from Steven Alan Pip (via Frances May)

I'm buying these earrings from the justEARRINGS shop on Etsy

Cities and Art

2009-11-20T12:59:00.001-06:00

I've decided that when I have a real house one day I want to have in it a piece of artwork representing the places I've lived in my adult life. I've always really loved a mismatch of frames and art all settled in close to one another on a wall. I love when people have frame after frame lining the way up their staircases or squeezed in on the family room walls.

Currently I have a small etching of a cable car going down California Street in San Francisco with the Bay Bridge in the background. I love looking at it because it reminds me of so many moments of my life in San Francisco. The March before I moved to SF I visited and did an interview at Goodby, Silverstein, & Partners right on California Street where the hill gets so steep its unbearable. When I started work at Blood Centers of the Pacific some of my biggest buildings were on California St. I had the Merrill Lynch account in 600 California. I had drives at 1 California, 50 California, 100 California, When I look at the picture I think of the last weekend I was in San Francisco, when my dad and Kathy and Lauren were visiting and Kathy and I both picked up the same piece of art and both bought the same one for our houses. That weekend I got to relive all the touristy things about SF I love, like the sea lions, the curvy streets, the great food, the cold ocean air. Looking at this picture reminds me of everything those two years were to me.

I also have a photo of the big Longhorn flag that reminds me so much of my time in Austin. It was one of the ones they ran across the field during the games. What's more is there's a huge crowd of people at the bottom and it makes me remember the times we got to go down on the field with Lassos and shove in with others to form the spot where the players would run out after halftime. Many times I wish I would have the chance to live in Austin now, post-college, but part of me is glad that everything about that city is overlapping with all my memories of college and the people I met and person I became.

I guess next on the list is to start looking for a Houston piece to join the crowd. Here's a few I've found thus far. I like them but ... still on the search.

(from FreezeFrame)

(from JRenPhotos)

(from LindseyRose)

Why:

2009-11-19T21:37:00.000-06:00

...can I not go to Target without spending at least $50?

...are Christmas decorations/songs/smells/memories so irresistible?

...do I need constant reassurance?

...has my taste changed so much as the years have past?

...can I cry at a Hallmark commercial but not life-changing events?

...do I love http://www.cuteoverload.com and http://www.textsfromlastnight.com both equally?

...am I someone who gets bored so easily and yet gets nervous about change?

...won't Glory get her lazy butt up from sleeping in the morning unless I tempt her with a biscuit?

...do I love potato chips so much?

...can't the weekends be three days long every week?

...do I not tell the amazing people around me how much I love and appreciate them more?

Thanks to TechSoup

2009-11-17T18:15:00.003-06:00

Not long ago Faith In Practice won an honorable mention for our participation in Tech Soup's Digital Storytelling Contest. It was a complete surprise! I mean I know Faith In Practice is an awesome organization, we have some wonderful photos that tell our story and some incredible stories to tell - but we don't necessary have our feet wet when it comes to social media. Not just do we not have our feet wet ... I am not sure if we are even near the shore. We'll be there before too long I'm sure. But Tech Soup made it so easy to enter that I thought "why not!" and lo and behold we won an honorable mention (and a sweet MP3 player prize that comes with it). Plus I got to do something great on behalf on a great nonprofit and in the process tell some more people about our mission. It was just a shame I wasn't in San Fran for the Tech Soup party!

Well what an even bigger surprise when they asked me if they could do a member spotlight on me on Tech Soup's Community website. It was definitely one of those "whoa seriously - me?" moments that was such an honor. I attended events at Tech Soup offices in San Francisco (awesome offices btw) but always felt like a tiny fish in a big pond. Let's face it, I generally feel like a tiny fish in a gigantic pond (with many obstacles may I add) when it comes to working in the social media world in general.

Thanks so much Megan Keane for this exciting opportunity!

Here's the FIP pics that won and here's the spotlight:

Member Spotlight: Ashley Messick of Faith in Practice and Blood Centers of the Pacific

Three-legged race

2009-11-17T10:11:00.000-06:00

This was on The Frisky on CNN today and I think it's a pretty great description of marriage:

Marriage is another word for "trust." Maybe "trust, plus." It is two people full of doubts, shortcomings, and love holding hands and jumping together. It's a risk, fraught with the potential to fail, and that makes it beautiful. Three-legged races, where two people hop, stumble, get back up, and maybe hit a stride until they fall again. It's funny, frustrating, and the wedding ring is a symbol for the rope tying two legs together.

Or of course as my mom says "It's all a crap shoot".

With the soon-to-be Wilsons and soon-to-be Mitchells weddings coming up next week I thought it was good timing to share.

Same old blog

2009-11-16T20:31:00.002-06:00

But I've got a guest header pic since I haven't gotten any good ones of Glory lately. Welcome the oldest Scott-Mitchell ... Ennis! All smiles, or should I say tongue, and blue skies.

Hip hip "oorah"

2009-11-15T22:24:00.001-06:00

Spent the weekend in South Texas enjoying the warm weather and men in uniform. Ok mainly just one man in uniform in particular but still. Although I complain that it is 80 degrees and November, it definitely was nice to have sunshine and a nice breeze for being near the beach for a weekend.

Got to hang with the Scott-Mitchell pups on Saturday morning. Is it pretty pathetic that after being away from our household of mutts for just a day I was already so excited to see dogs again? Especially since Ennis and Ella are full of energy, which I can see might drive you crazy day in and day out but they were a blast to play with. It's kinda like your kids versus your nieces and nephews. Energetic kids are always fun when you can give them back when you're tired.

Pat and I did the USS Lexington tour on Saturday afternoon. It was perfect timing since Pat just got back from landing on the carrier out off Jacksonville so the explanations were a lot clearer with a bit more of a visual (i.e. here's the line showing where the jet would be catapulted off and the smooth edge for launching nicely off the boat and into the air VS. ya so they shot me off a boat). The USS Lexington has some pretty cool history too. It was rather mind-blowing to walk up and down the deck and think of all the people who have been there. When we were going up and down the ladders it was crazy to imagine people running up and down during wartime. Of course I really can't imagine sleeping in such tight quarters (berthing I mean). We saw about 300 boy scouts coming on board to spend the night with sleeping bags in tow. Now that's something I definitely would not want to have to chaperon.

Marine Corps Birthday Ball on Saturday night and it was a blast getting dressed up, seeing Pat in uniform, dancing, getting some of the "go USA" spirit, and smashing cake on Pat's face. The most moving part was when they brought the cake out and the oldest Marine present and youngest Marine present get some of the first slices. The older gentleman who was the oldest Marine was very sincere in his thanks to the new generation and his love for the country and the people who protect it. It was really touching to hear. Plus I got to teach Pat how to two-step a little, although I think we need some more practice. Now the booty dancing at the bar ... we have that down pat.

Spent today in Corpus eating diner food to cure the hangover (my hangover) and at the beach. This older couple bought our breakfast, which was pretty much the nicest thing ever. Definitely a "pay it forward" moment. I still say that it was because they thought we were such a cute couple but in all reality I'm sure they saw Pat's Naval Academy shirt and obvious military haircut and wanted to do something nice. It's one of those things that I'm still thinking to myself "wow that was so incredibly nice". How funny that someone taking care of just a $25 breakfast could make such a difference. It makes me think I should do things like that more often. Yep - definitely a "pay it forward" moment.

Well that's the weekend wrap up. Here's to another week of work ...

Guess what happens in 4 weeks

2009-11-12T22:47:00.005-06:00

VIVA LAS VEGAS!

And this time I'm not 12 and not babysitting my 6 month old cousin (although I bet right now my mom is saying "that was a fun trip" so to that I say "yes that was a fun trip"). BUT I imagine that Vegas is much more fun with:

booze
gambling
nightclubs
booze

I bought thigh high stockings today and I'm not sure how I'll incorporate them into my outfits but at least I have them now just in case.

To do list:

Get tickets to The Thunder Down Under
Find a slutty dress(es) with sequins
Figure out what nightclub has the cheapest drinks
Buy bottles of vodka that are 3 oz. or less
Obtain plenty of $1 bills
Make a shirt that says Bridezilla in glitter
Learn how to play craps
Start fake tanning or at least use some self-tanner
Practice walking in 5 inch heels

DECEMBER 11-13, 2K9.

Missing blog entries

2009-11-10T13:10:00.001-06:00

Free Wi-Fi from Google at select airports this holiday season? That sounds like the perfect holiday gift to me. Except I guess with my iPhone I get free internet everywhere (although according to Verizon it's only about 10% of the country). Maybe now I'll actually purchase a flight and go somewhere? Maybe.

I feel like I've been missing a lot of significant blogging opportunities lately. I know I know the pictures of cute animals and funny Digg stories are nice and all. And who wouldn't love my ridiculous devotion to song lyrics. So I guess it's time to have a do-over.

October 31, 2009: HAPPY HALLOWEEN! Last year I got into a fight with Santa in a town car driving all over San Francisco. This year was much more low key. It's funny now thinking back to the Halloweens I remember (not many - due to young age or too much alcohol - and some that were a little of both?) and I can honestly say that this is a holiday that I'm looking forward to more in the years to come. Don't get me wrong I loved this year BUT I can't wait to have a house to hand out candy at in a real neighborhood. And to have kids who I can help get ready in their costumes and watch their excitement over the precious candy that gets dropped into their bags. But regardless this really was one of the best years thus far and next year I'm definitely going to plan ahead and get a costume where I can wear a wig. Because really what other day is it appropriate to wear a wig just for the hell of it?

November 4, 2009: I can't believe that it has been a year since once of the best days ever (*insert Sponge Bob song "It's the Best Day Ever"). Despite the fact that no, there hasn't been a complete 180 in the economy, we STILL are working on health care reform, and the numerous other issues not yet resolved - despite all of that I still have a smile on my face thinking back to that day and the feeling resonates into my life even a year later. It makes me think back to voting for John Kerry in 2004. Even though we didn't win on that election night I was able to know that I did my part to try to enact the changes I wanted to see. This time around I have faith that the right decision was made and that when history tells the story it will be one of positive change. I cannot say enough how much I enjoy having a leader I believe in.

Yesterday: Ok so I should have said it yesterday but can I say it today: CONGRATS PAT! From the day you made me watch the documentary about the pilots doing carrier landings you had me nervous. Probably not as nervous as you were but nervous nonetheless. I guess it was my initiation into the "anxiety over your significant other's job" club. In the words of one of my favorite Someecards:

I guess that's enough catch up for now. Unless something significant happens today and I forget to blog about it. Unlikely but who knows what a Tuesday may bring ...

Sniffle

2009-11-08T20:09:00.002-06:00

Well I knew it was coming. I knew it would catch me eventually. Sneeze, sniffle, sneeze. The colds have been flying around my office the past few weeks and with it being cold/flu season anyway I suppose I'm lucky to have held off for this long. I'm eating my ramen noodles and drinking my C-Boost smoothies so hopefully I'll be back up and running before heading to Kingsville next weekend. And of course then it's time to dance the night away.

Weekend update:

Friday night in with Becca's family. That meant playing with crazy hair Joshua or more like Becca and I playing with the Little People toys while Joshua ignored us. Then getting little John to snuggle up to sleep on my shoulder. Infants smell like happiness. Oh yes and it's always nice to see the grown-up members of the Schneider (and Anderson) clan too.
Saturday my mom and I got to hang out, run errands, check out Rice Chapel with my sister, and taste cakes that it turns out are not "the cake" but still good cake. Family birthday party on Saturday night and then out to celebrate Mary's birthday on Washington.
Side story: randomly ran into some high school friends on Washington. Then ran into a whole bunch of Marines. Then it turned out one of the Marines was a high school friend who was friends with my first real boyfriend who at the time wanted to be a Marine and now it turns out actually is. Random story meant to randomly say that I guess I've had Marines in my life longer than I thought.
Woke up this morning in Becca's gigantic, gorgeous room with the sniffles (see first paragraph). More errands with mom, who I of course was excited to come home and tell about Derrick (the first real, highschool boyfriend mentioned above), then laying around and attempting to not get sicker. That means couch time and House marathons. Sometimes Sundays are actually filled with RELAXING. Imagine that.

Oh and Glory and Lolly are friends now! Pictures of that tomorrow.

Not friends like these two are friends but friends none the less.

A little bit of this, a little bit of that

2009-11-05T21:06:00.001-06:00

A little bit of funny

A little bit of cute

Tomorrow's FRIDAY!!!

You Can Sing

2009-11-04T20:25:00.001-06:00

I downloaded this song a month ago and then forgot about it until restoring my phone tonight. It's one of those ones that's realistic and inspiring at the same time. Kinda like life.

You Can Sing
by Lori & Don Chaffer

Fat tires and cigarettes
Romeos and Juliets
Another night of crazy bets
That everyone survives
With no scars and no regrets
You wait it out like a seasoned vet
Letting go can look like that
Before you realize

You can sing
You can believe
You can be anything you want
All the time
Day or night
You can be anything you want

Tank full of gasoline
Long gone the look serene
Strapped in like a tired marine
With many miles to go
You used to be a summer rain
Not too old and not too vain
Long before you learned the game
That now you're stuck inside

But you can sing

Over the line over the line
Far far too driven
And losing our minds
It's a beautiful night
A beautiful sunrise
Did we ever notice
Are we too blind

Fat tires and cigarettes
Romeos and Juliets
Stinging losses deep regrets
That everybody hides
In coffee shops and magazines
Choir lofts and college flings
Did everybody lose their dreams
Out on the playground

Proverbs: the new fortune cookies?

2009-11-03T21:57:00.001-06:00

Normally I'm not much of a Proverbs person. They're too "tough love" and confusing metaphors. Plus I guess the stubborn part of me doesn't like to be told what to do. "As a jewel of gold in a swine's snout, so is a fair woman which is without discretion" (Proverbs 11:22). What? Who puts jewelry on a pig? Or "A merry heart makes a cheerful countenance" (Proverbs 15:13). Well yea. These sound like my fortunate cookie from last night.

All that to say that I've given Proverbs another chance after reading this part of Proverbs 16 today:

¹ We can make our own plans,
but the Lord gives the right answer.

² People may be pure in their own eyes,
but the Lord examines their motives.

³ Commit your actions to the Lord,
and your plans will succeed.

⁹ We can make our plans,
but the Lord determines our steps.

³² Better to be patient than powerful;
better to have self-control than to conquer a city.

³³ We may throw the dice,
but the Lord determines how they fall.

Sure Jeremiah 29:11 is all good and nice and "Don't worry I know the plans I've got for ya and they're awesome" but sometimes this is more the tone you need to hear. The "Quit your impatient, controlling, ridiculous ways and let me do the things I'm doing" voice of God. He's doing those awesome things in my life and I need to sit back and have faith. I told Pat tonight that I always prepare for disappointment so as to not be surprised if it happens. Maybe I just need to prepare for joy so that I won't miss it when it is right in front of my eyes.

Guess it's better than two at a time?

2009-11-02T19:49:00.000-06:00

My fortune cookie from dinner tonight said:

The future comes one day at a time.

I didn't realize Chinese restaurants were basically just giving you statements of fact now a days. Rain is wet. People have noses. A minute is sixty seconds.

My initial feelings about the day pretty much stuck. It was a long day. I was exhausted all around. Even a hot shower and glass of wine tonight didn't kick it. It's one of those "try again tomorrow" kinda things. Guess that's what my fortune cookie was trying to tell me.

To avoid being whiny I'll just post some cute pics of the pups from the weekend. They are loving this gorgeous Fall weather and so am I. Here's to Starbucks starting again with their Peppermint Mochas and red holiday cups tomorrow ...

Eye on the prize

Speedster

Happy Camper

Who am I kidding ... I could never get my dogs to stand in line, even if it was for the bus.
(Photo courtesy of Laughing Squid and Plomedia)

Hello Monday

2009-11-02T05:48:00.001-06:00

Yea I kinda feel like this today too.

(photo courtesy of Cute Overload)

Who chooses trick over treat?

2009-10-28T21:24:00.001-05:00

Only a few days left until Halloween and somehow I managed to make it this long without having any major candy obsessions. BUT caramel apple pops have once again made me realize that they are the true meaning of Halloween. Nothing could be better. It's kinda like my peppermint taffy Christmas obsession. Except I can eat just one apple pop and stop. Taffy on the other hand ...

There was a really interesting article on CNN today. Actually before that - CNN is the home page on both my work computer and my home computer so basically every few hours I'm checking to see what's going on in the world. I have this huge fear that something gigantic will happen and every else in the world will know about it but me. But I've been having trouble even looking at it the past few days because of the horrible story about the California teenager who was gang raped in front of two dozen people at her highschool Homecoming dance for TWO HOURS and no one even bothered to call 911. Reading a story like that really makes me question not just "how could that happen?" but "what would I do if I were in those bystander's shoes?" Of course we all know what our initial reactions are to that question. That of course we would report it. But the more times I see the story the more I wonder how I really would act. I think that's what makes me even more sick than the story itself.

But back to the interesting article that didn't leave me soul-searching. Is Monogamy Realistic? It's one of those questions that we also don't want to ask ourselves because perhaps we are afraid of the answer. I think the thing I like most about this article is that it presents a question that we all should think about in our own lives. It gives facts about some of the background of relationships in this country and others around the world. AND in the end it recognizes that whatever your thoughts on the matter in the end it is always a choice. Regardless of what is in our nature, thankfully we have the privilege to be able to think through the consequences of our actions and choose what has the best outcome.

I'll leave you with this excerpt:

"It's realistic that some people can mate for life in the same sense that some people can play the Beethoven violin concerto or other people can ice-skate beautifully or learn a new language," said psychiatrist Judith Eve Lipton.

Added evolutionary biologist David Barash, "It's within the realm of human potential, but it's not easy."

Good thing I'm not in medical school

2009-10-26T21:25:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I wish that I could go to the doctor once a month just for a check up. You know - a full body check for moles and lumps and bumps, blood work to make sure I'm not coming down with mono, listen to the heart, check the lungs, the whole nine yards. It's not that I consider myself a hypochondriac because I don't actually go to the doctor or ER for anything. I do my self-breast exams, I check my tonsils and lymphnodes for swelling, and I keep an eye on a few suspicious freckles. It's just that it would be nice for my peace of mind to get a "just in case" check up once a month so that when that super dark mole on my right arm starts looking "just a little misshapen" when I'm procrastinating at work and need something new to obsess over I'll know that it's no big deal. Is that weird?

It was a fantastic weekend in terms of weather and good company. Jerald was home from Mississippi so entertainment abounded (ha ha that was for your sake Mom). Pat was in town, although I think he may have gotten more one-on-one time with Todd than with me. Megan's wedding shower on Saturday gave me the chance to hang out with my best friends. I even got to see my sister and Mert! Of course then today it poured all day and only reinforced the dreary Monday of having to be back in the real world.

You know what else is in the real world? Freaking weird people. Like this guy, who got caught smuggling pythons and lizards on a plane by taping them in little bags to himself.
Seriously who thinks these things up? Who are these strange people?

But I don't want to leave you with that horrible image so instead I'll post this cute one, courtesy of Cute Overload. Would it be too cheesy to say "Hoppy" Monday?

Do penguins Tweet?

2009-10-20T21:31:00.000-05:00

Tonight I got to meet social media folks, Shel Israel (whose book Twitterville I'm in the middle of reading), a gigantic lizard, a big eyed owl, and two penguins. Who says that social media is all nerdiness? Ok maybe it is. But it's still cool.

Plus I checked out a great coffee shop, Coffee Groundz, down on Bagby. Described as the "Cheers for technorati" I definitely need to grab my laptop and head back at some point. Plus best selection of tea ever. I got some Temple of Health since everyone is my office is sick. I even brought my laptop home today just in case I woke up with a sore throat and fever. Cross your fingers that all is ok though - I'm definitely not in the mood to get sick (ok well who ever is?)

It's been tough not being in SF with all the tech events and lack of weird looks when I talk about Twitter. BUT I can say now that at least there is a small but growing community here in Houston that I can be a part of and meet people within. Who knows - SMC San Francisco/Silicon Valley never had penguins. Maybe it will only get better from here!

Case of the Mondays

2009-10-19T20:41:00.001-05:00

(photo courtesy of Cute Overload)

I kinda feel like I may or may not have had this look on my face for the majority of the day.

Yes it was a day where I decided with little thought of consequence to not take Sudafed AND not have a Diet Coke. And to put Stevia in my coffee (that stuff sucks - who knew that I could miss Splenda so much?). Let's just say when the day was done I had eaten 5 mini packs of Whoppers and if I don't go upstairs and take a shower within 5 minutes I'm likely to have 5 more. I told my mom that no I didn't put on the freshman fifteen in college but I'm likely to put on the Texas fifteen if I'm not careful. Yikes.

In other news, seriously aren't dogs just so cute when they are wearing hats?

Weekend wrapup

2009-10-18T21:06:00.000-05:00

It was a weekend of Bergman family fun (ok well partial Bergman family - there's still more out there) complete with lederhosen, beautiful weather, a Texas Red River Rivalry win, dead fish, hilarious stories, and plenty of driving. I did the loop-de-loop of Houston to Kingsville to Corpus to San Antonio to Gruene and back. Let me just say that I-10 is a mad house when it comes to drivers on the road. I truly think some people are under the impression that it is the autobahn. But FYI that means I made it home in under 3 hours and without a speeding ticket since I was by far the slowest person on the road and I was doing 80!

I think maybe the best moment of the weekend was when Pat's dad asked me what kind of doctor my father was. Upon telling him that he was a family practice doc he let me know that it's too bad he asn't a psychiatrist or else he could help come up with an analysis for their family. Ha! No but seriously it was a great weekend and my only complaint was that after a week of not enough sleep and all the driving (and the added allergies of fall time in Texas) I was over caffinating myself to stay up past 9 pm.

On that note the goal of my week is to HYDRATE (aka drink more water) and get more sleep. And to actually go for a much needed run. That last one might interfere with the sleep (and who am I kidding the DVR catchup) and we all know which one I'll choose.

Climate change. Boom roasted.

2009-10-15T21:50:00.001-05:00

Perhaps it is fitting that my "Bag o' bliss" Pearls Before Swine comic came the day before Blog Action Day 2009, for which the theme is Climate Change. Let's face it, most of us have our heads in a bag o' bliss (myself included) when it comes to climate change. We laugh and say "seriously this summer seemed hotter - must be the climate change". We watch disaster movies where the ice caps melt and huge waves crash into New York City and for some reason wolves try to eat Jake Gyllenhaal (that guy is pure muscle - find someone with more meat). And maybe we consider buying a Swig water bottle, as much for the trendiness as for the love of the earth. But I never really sit down to consider changing my lifestyle habits for the sake of climate change. Hell I never really sit down to think about climate change at all.

It was easier in San Francisco. You had to recycle. And since you had to they made it really easy. The simple fact that I recycled made me feel good about myself and so I probably thought even less about all of my consumption and waste and impact. I walked more or took public transportation. Plus I drive a Kia, mainly because I can't afford an SUV, and so I feel good about my high gas mileage and relatively low emissions. And I'm a vegetarian so that gives me a few bonus points. So I give myself some points in the "plus" column and don't give it another thought.

I think this is how we got into trouble with climate change in the first place. We think to ourselves "well you know I don't really make THAT big of an impact". But then you add yourself to your family and your friends and your neighbors and your coworkers and all of the rest of the world, all of whom think they are relatively good compared to the rest and boom roasted. Literally.

So what's next? Well here's a few things I need to start doing because they're easy ways to be just a little more green. And wouldn't it be great if we all decided to be a little more green? If instead of saying "well I'm not doing that poorly compared to the rest" we started trying to do better.

Bring my own grocery bags. I did this all the time in SF. I do it 0% of the time now. I think because no one else does so it's kinda embarassing and weird. Oh well - maybe I'll start a new trend.
Set up a recycle bin at work for aluminum cans. It's tough to recycle here since it isn't picked up for you. BUT my mom takes our cans so if I put up a bin at work I can easily just bring them home and add them to our pile. Plus there's a few extra pennies for mom.
Choose reusable over disposable. I sometimes don't realize how many things I use could be exchanged for something greener. For example, I use cotton balls to take off my eye makeup. Why not just use a wash cloth?

I'm starting with three but there's no need to stop there. What's next?

Bag o' Bliss

2009-10-14T21:02:00.001-05:00

Wouldn't it be nice if we all had a personal bag o' bliss to put over our heads when life got confusing/frustrating/sad? It's tempting you know. The whole "if I can't see it then it doesn't exist". This is often times my strategy for keeping up with the news. Avoidance at all costs. Or emotions in general for that matter.

Although I guess it really is like having a bag over your head in that sure it might feel safe but (a) you can't go anywhere in life like that - I mean literally you would run into things and (b) you can't see anything coming your way. After awhile don't you get tired of living in a world defined by escape? Because unfortunately when you try to escape the bad you inadvertently escape the good at the same time.

And don't you get tired of the smell of produce? The same 'ol same 'ol. Life is about adventure. And not knowing how those adventures might turn out.

Shown how to love

2009-10-13T23:39:00.000-05:00

I never liked jazz music because jazz music doesn't resolve. But I was outside the Bagdad Theater in Portland one night when I saw a man playing the saxophone. I stood there for fifteen minutes, and he never opened his eyes.

After that I liked jazz music.

Sometimes you have to watch somebody love something before you can love it yourself. It is as if they are showing you the way

- Donald Miller

Shoes

2009-10-12T22:29:00.000-05:00

Check this post out from HorsePigCow. Great post and although I don't agree with it all I am so glad that it really got me thinking on so many issues. We do have a tendency to externalize. To make our lives about what we do, what we have, what we say, what we wear, how we label ourselves, who we are with. We seek to be validated by others rather than to simply be valid because we are.

I will say though that although I don't require religion to make me a better person - it DOES make me a better person. I don't need a political label to tell me how we should be treating people in other countries but I do need one to vote for those who I believe will make decisions I support. Love is about the "fit" but it is also about so many other things that are part of the dance. Sometimes the things that may begin as a way to validate your image in the world can become something incredible. I may have begun in my faith as a child following my parents but what it has become is lifegiving and amazing. It may sometimes be hard to find our way in love but it will certainly be worth it in the end.

And sometimes shoes that start off giving you blisters can turn into your favorite pair.

Girls just want to have fun

2009-10-11T20:30:00.000-05:00

Bachelor parties mean strippers, booze, and bad decisions. Bachelorette parties mean wine, panties, and plenty of good gossip with friends.

After my long first week of work I had a fantastic (although tiring) weekend with girlfriends celebrating one of my best friend's wedding that is coming up in just a little over a month. There's nothing like singing "Livin' on a Prayer", wine-tasting, eating good Tex-Mex, talking about guys, talking about life, talking about babies, ok so lots of talking, and getting to know some of Megan's friends from her other "life-stages" who I hadn't spent much time with before.

It was my first time wine-tasting in Fredericksburg and it turned out to be a beautiful day, nice and cool and sunny. It was almost the same as being in Napa. Of course all the Napa people would faint that I said that. Thankfully to me I'm happy with a bottle of Barefoot so the best part of the day wasn't the wine itself but dancing the chicken dance. I don't think they would allow you to do that in Napa.

The funny thing is that after the week and the rain and the gloom I thought that sleeping for two days straight would have been the thing to put a smile on my face. I was wrong. Although I might have actually barely been able to keep my eyes open at times, there really is nothing better for brightening your weekend and preparing you for the week than spending time with a wonderful group of women. Spending time with a wonderful group of women and celebrating one of my best friends being in love.

I can't wait for the wedding!

Where are you Friday?

2009-10-06T20:43:00.000-05:00

(photo courtesy of cute overload)

Sometimes starting a new job can feel like this. You know there's so many new challenges and things to learn and it can all feel a little overwhelming. Thankfully my co-workers made sure I had some great pictures hanging right by my computer of some the wonderful patients in Guatemala who have been blessed by Faith in practice so it is a great reminder of the end goal.

Plus today Blood Centers gave away a Smart Car to a deserving blood donor. His wife started crying when he won. They both shared a car that was 15 years old. And then I got to let everyone online know about it.

Really can life get any better when my jobs let me help people AND make them smile?

One day down

2009-10-05T21:12:00.000-05:00

First day of work = complete.

Got up at 6:15 am. Left the house by 7:20. Work til 5. Home at 5:45. BCP work until 7:15. Quick run. Dinner with momma. Couple quick phone chats and some Brothers and Sisters. Shower and now it's time for bed here in a few.

So this is what the rest of you people do every day? No wonder everyone is always so tired!

The first day was fabulous and I think can be summed up best by a quick pros and cons list:

PROS

Wonderful co-workers. So great. There are 7 of us in the office, all women, and not only is everyone kind and friendly but they each really seem to love what they do and love the mission of the organization. If you have ever worked with people who hate their jobs you know what a blessing this is. I already love Faith in Practice just because I see how much each of them love Faith in Practice and sometimes that is reason enough.
I have an office. With a door. And walls. Like the kind that have to be constructed as PART OF THE BUILDING. And a desk and beautiful marigold and light yellow walls and floor to ceiling windows. Did I mention the door? That closes! This is a first for me so of course I am lame enough to be totally excited to not be sharing an office or in a cubicle.
Parking right in front of the building that's free. And I don't have to move my car every two hours. If you have ever worked in San Francisco you would realize what a gift this is.
Office 2007. Enough said.
I-10 to the Beltway to 59 only took me 45 minutes there and 45 minutes home.

CONS

I couldn't go in my pajamas and I had to wake up before 9 am. This is a marked difference from my last three months.
I-10 to the Beltway to 59 took me 45 minutes there and 45 minutes home. This is a marked difference from walking down the stairs.

All in all a fantastic day. Plus I have an awesome girls weekend in Austin starting on Friday so really what better way to motivate me to keep a smile on my face until then?

60 + 3.1

2009-10-04T18:22:00.000-05:00

I managed to basically concuss myself by misjudging either the size of my head or the spacial relationship between my head and the back door of my mom's car when shutting the trunk earlier. It reminds me of the day I literally ran into the wall when turning the corner. Apparently distances are not my thing.

Anyway so I'm using that as an excuse to do a "bullet point" blog post and you'll have to accept my apologies if it comes off a little all over the place.

60: Jerald is old now. We celebrated with a party on Friday and Mexican food (and strong margaritas) on Saturday. I celebrated by making fun of him as much as possible this weekend. It's a gift. Literally.
3.1: Or you can say 5K. I ran in Race for the Cure on Saturday morning. I guess I knew that a 5K was a little over 3 miles but let me just say that when you pass the 1 mile mark it's one of those "ok feels good", at 2 miles it's "man it's humid this morning" but at 3 miles it's "I thought this thing WAS 3 miles". Thankfully the balloon arch at the end kept me trucking. And the promise of goodies.
5: more days until Megan's Bachelorette weekend in Austin. I. Am. So. Excited.
14: more hours until I start work. I cannot believe it. You would think that 3 months off - minus that pesky little 10 hours a week for BCP :) - would be enough but alas I cannot believe that starting tomorrow I'll be back to the world of the employed. Is it nerdy to say I can't wait?

Although it was great to have a low-key weekend of being a bum I can't wait for all the fun things planned for the rest of the October weekends. Halloween here we come!

Hook'em G!

2009-10-03T15:20:00.001-05:00

Who says it's a bye week?

Story People

2009-10-01T13:35:00.000-05:00

these are multi-purpose wings

& when she's not
flying
they accessorize
nicely with almost
anything
she wears

We're in Miami trick

2009-10-01T13:10:00.000-05:00

To celebrate my new job (more on that later) I had the opportunity last night to be an extra in a tv pilot in downtown Houston aka Miami. Well actually that's probably a lie. I had the opportunity to drink warm Franzia from a plastic cup by a pool for a show that will likely never make it past the friends and family screening. I've been told that if you cry on national television you automatically gain more viewers. Or at least make it on The Soup. Either way it actually turned out to be fun and that is despite the fact that dressing "Miami chic" meant I couldn't sit down because my skirt was just a tad bit tight. Plus I got to see Travis Kling and once again remind him that I beat him in a writing contest in - I think we agreed - 3rd grade. It was worth it for that alone.

As for the new job, I am so excited! It is rather incredible how things sometimes all fall into place. And fall into your lap. On Monday I didn't even know that Faith in Practice existed and now I'm thrilled to be starting with such a great group of people THIS Monday. I'll be a Teams Coordinator, basically doing volunteer coordination for an organization that goes to Guatemala on medical missions and improving the lives of those living in poverty. Plus I'll still be doing social media work for BCP so I'll get to keep in the tech world as well. Only thing I'm NOT looking forward to? The commute. I drove home from Becca's this morning at 7:30 and got to see the bumper to bumper traffic I will be sitting in starting soon. Ouch. And of course no more mid-week trips to Kville. Everyone knows mid-week is where all the action is at!

As for now I'm enjoying my last few days of freedom (read: watching as much tv as possible and eating Cheetos). Happy Thursday!

Play ball

2009-09-29T21:03:00.000-05:00

Cause everyone needs something to chew.

Sha la la Joseph you're doing fine.

2009-09-29T20:53:00.001-05:00

I've been feeling a bit anxious lately. I'm trying to blame my feeling a little "out of it" on my allergies, or the Benadryl I'm taking for my allergies, or the lack of sleep due to a stuffy nose from allergies. In reality though I think it's nerves and ignoring it probably is less likely to help than just owning up to it.

For my self-analysis I decided to determine if it is job search stress (and job interviews stress), joblessness stress, or just general "my life is not in my control" stress. I'm assuming it's the latter because let's face it I am and have always been somewhat of a control freak. It must be the Virgo in me I swear. Either that or the Diane Isenberg in me.

So I've decided I need a theme song. You know for when I'm feeling my heart flutter. I'm thinking something in the Broadway category. You know like Everything's Alright from Jesus Christ Superstar or Go Go Go Joseph (of course conveniently substituting my name). Thoughts?

Ready for a closeup

2009-09-28T13:14:00.000-05:00

Quacked out

Smile

Hug a Veg

2009-09-25T15:06:00.001-05:00

That's right it's Hug a Vegetarian Day 2009! I of course will usually give out hugs to everyone regardless of food choices but it is nice to see that the last Friday of September is a special day to say "thanks" to those who decide that vegetarianism is the life for them.

It's funny because any time anyone finds out I'm a vegetarian (or at least for the most part since I recently started eating fish a few times here and there) the first reaction is generally "WHY?!?!" I get it. I'm in Texas now. I am pretty sure I only got that question maybe once or twice while living in San Francisco. I say it's funny that is always people's first reaction but it is only sometimes funny. Sometimes it is said in such a way that frankly ... it's a bit rude. I don't consider myself someone who preaches about vegetarianism. In fact I rarely mention it at all. I always hope that my attitude is one that says to others "This is the choice I've made for myself but that I do not aim to try to make for you".

I get it though - this isn't quite always the attitude of people who choose to not eat meat at all or to not eat certain meats. There's a lot of condescending from vegetarians. I mean in general that is basically PETA's stance, which is why I prefer Wayne Pacelle from the Humane Society who basically says "hey consider vegetarianism or even consider just not having meat with every meal every day of the week". I even am good with saying "hey consider choosing meat, eggs, and dairy that are humanely produced, fish that is wild caught instead of farm raised, etc." But whatever you choose make sure it is something that you have thought through and make a decision you believe in. Isn't that best for everything in life?

But enough of the soap box. Here's to hugs and happy Fridays!

Nerd nerd geek geek

2009-09-24T23:12:00.000-05:00

(picture via Constantine Graphics)

This friend in San Francisco used to always just say "Nerd nerd geek geek" whenever we would be at dinner and people would start talking in tech lingo. Kinda like "dirka dirka" on Team America. That may or may not be how this post is about to go.

I've been thinking lately about how incredibly lucky I am that my job, part time or otherwise, is so fantastic. I mean come on - I get to read blogs, play on Facebook, think about social media, talk about social media, and help encourage people to save lives. Most people have to sneak around at work to play on Facebook. I get PAID to do it. Plus we just launched our Blood Centers of the Pacific blog "Blood Drops" so now I have one more thing to be incredibly proud and excited about for work.

It isn't just that I love Facebook or Twitter or blogs. I think what I love most is that I get to be part of figuring out and understanding how we as people communicate and how as technology is evolving we are doing that more and more in the online world. Every day I find something new to help me learn, organize or just laugh more. And more than that I get the chance to connect with people - who I know, once knew, or don't know yet. It might be kinda nerdy but that is what is thrilling.

And the cute hamsters are good for a smile too.

True Texan

2009-09-23T15:43:00.000-05:00

No I can't handle spicy foods. And I am not a Republican. And I don't eat meat. BUT the one true way I can tell that I really am from Texas (apart from the yellow rose tattoo) is that NOTHING makes me happier than wearing jeans. Of course I'm not crazy enough to wear them in the heat of summer but thanks to the rain showers yesterday and a tad bit cooler weather it is day one of jean season again here in Houston. *sigh of relief*

Isn't it funny how something as small as being able to wear your comfortable, favorite clothes can really make the day that much better? Ok and it is even better because upon putting on my jeans today I found $20 in the pocket. Oh to be back in San Francisco where I wore jeans every day and apparently was rich enough to leave money laying around in the pockets. Either that or I was too poor to be able to afford a wallet.

Happy second day of Fall. I'm wearing jeans. I'm burning pumpkin candles. I'm thinking that just maybe I'll convince my mom to let me put out the Halloween decorations next week. Next thing you know it'll be time to crank up the ol' Christmas playlist on my iPod.

Did I say how much I love fall?

Black and white

2009-09-22T22:09:00.000-05:00

My mom has said a few times in our conversations in the past few days that as she has gotten older things have become less black and white. Black and white. It's one of those interesting phrases that sometimes I try to wrap my head around only to find myself more confused than ever about what it really means.

I mean when you get down to it she's right of course. Things are never black and white. There's so many shades of gray that even that in and of itself gets confusing. I mean so few things are one way or the other - it is often unclear to know what is "right" versus what is "wrong" versus the more likely "it's just my opinion". But isn't that the nice part? I mean things not being black or white - isn't the gray where we can find or form our own opinions?

I am usually able to say that I know what works for me but who am I to tell others what works for them. It is what forms my opinion on so many political issues, religious issues, and just societal issues. But in knowing that things aren't black and white does that mean that I am avoiding forming and sticking upon a belief? And if it is then is it because I am afraid that belief may only still be valid because nothing significant has occurred in my own life to change it?

Shades of gray wherever I go. The more I find out the less I know.
- Billy Joel

Last day of summer

2009-09-21T17:02:00.000-05:00

I went for a run today and there was a *slight* breeze. You know what that means - fall is on the way. Ok really that probably just meant that a thunderstorm was on the way but I'm taking it how I can get it. Either way it is the last day of summer and that in and of itself is something to celebrate. Moving back to Texas at the beginning of one of the hottest summers in one of the hottest, muggiest states means I've been looking forward to fall since about a week after I arrived back home.

You know what else I've been looking forward to? Pumpkin. Spice. Latte. That's right, it's finally that time again at Starbucks. Unfortunately I am still jobless so spending $4 a day for the sweet sickness of latte love isn't going to be a possibility. Thankfully though I found this awesome do-it yourself recipe online. Get out your Halloween mugs it's time for pumpkin! Enjoy!

p.s. you can change the sugar and fat content of this recipe quite easily. I mean swimsuit season is over so who cares but just in case you have to fit into a sleek black bridesmaid dress come November ...

Pumpkin Spice Latte
makes 1-2 servings

Ingredients:
2 cups milk
2 tablespoons canned pumpkin OR 1 teaspoon of Torani Pumpkin Spice Syrup (your choice)
2 tablespoons sugar or sugar substitute - you can halve this amount
2 tablespoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1-2 shots espresso (about 1/4 cup of espresso or 1/2 cup of strong brewed coffee if you don't have an espresso machine.)

Directions:
In a saucepan combine milk, pumpkin and sugar and cook on medium heat, stirring, until steaming. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla and spice, transfer to a blender and process for 15 seconds until foamy. If you don't have a blender, don't worry about it - just whisk the mixture really well with a wire whisk.

Pour into a large mug or two mugs. Add the espresso on top.

Optional: Top with whipped cream and sprinkle pumpkin pie spice, nutmeg, or cinnamon on top.

Here's what I missed this summer in SF

2009-09-20T23:28:00.000-05:00

Another Cloud Reel... from Delrious on Vimeo.

Dear San Francisco - this video makes me miss you.

Better late then never

2009-09-18T17:23:00.000-05:00

How you gonna do me like that Kanye?

Irreplaceable sparks

2009-09-16T16:34:00.000-05:00

In the name of the best within you, do not sacrifice this world to those who are its worst. In the name of the values that keep you alive, do not let your vision of man be distorted by the ugly, the cowardly, the mindless in those who have never achieved his title. Do not lose your knowledge that man's proper estate is an upright posture, an intransigent mind and a step that travels unlimited roads. Do not let your fire go out, spark by irreplaceable spark, in the hopeless swamps of the approximate, the not-quite, the not-yet, the not-at-all. Do not let the hero in your soul perish, in lonely frustration for the life you deserved, but have never been able to reach. Check your road and the nature of your battle. The world you desired can be won, it exists, it is real, it is possible, it's yours.
- Ayn Rand, Atlas Shrugged

Thanks to Page by Page books online I've been reading Anthem by Ayn Rand lately. Her more famous books, Atlas Shrugged and Fountainhead, are a bit more to take on but Anthem is more a novelette. Plus I think its her only book conveniently short enough to read online. She has such an interesting take on life, philosophy, politics. Of course she's much more of a capitalist devotee than I will ever be but regardless I'd love to continue to read some of her more well-known works, even if they will take me a month at least!

This passage of hers though from Atlas Shrugged reminds me so much of a personal battle cry. When I read it I get the same feeling as when I read Teddy Roosevelt's Not the Critic Who Counts speech. It's reassurance and encouragement and belief in the "as of yet unknowns". It's always nice to read the words of others in order to know that I am not the first nor the last to sometimes feel like the not-quite, not-yet, not-at-alls loom quite large. Keep those irreplaceable sparks burning.

Marshmallows and Autumn

2009-09-15T13:04:00.000-05:00

Oh, The Temptation from Steve V on Vimeo.

Seriously those are some of the cutest kids of all time. I like the twins who start dancing to amuse themselves. And all the kids smelling the marshmallows. What a cruel, cruel temptation.

In other news, despite that it is still 100 degrees and not quite yet October I took today to begin the Halloween celebration. As in I bought a pumpkin pie candle and a bag of Autumn Surprise candy corn. You know - the ones that have regular candy corn, chocolate candy corn that tastes exactly like regular candy corn but has brown instead of yellow, and the oh so yummy tiny little pumpkins that I pick out and eat individually but refuse to buy an entire bag of. Happy Fall!

Weekend wrapup

2009-09-13T22:47:00.000-05:00

This weekend included:

Trying several new, awesome restaurants like Ruggles Green, the first certified green restaurant in Houston who also make corn chowder that apparently has (a) no chowder like texture and (b) no actual corn; AND Cafe Mezza, home to quite possibly my new favorite salad. p.s. Mom this means we definitely have to go back soon.
Drinking Kopi Luwak. Otherwise known as poop coffee. No seriously look it up. Have you seen Bucket List?
Learning how to play "flog" aka beer pong/flip cup combo. And booty dancing while doing so. Oh ya and winning the TX game.
Meeting another Katie Fitch. I guess maybe other people have in their lifetimes known more than one person with the same name but this is a first time for me. It's crazy. And let's just say for Becca created a bit of a phone mishap when trying to find the apartment.
Getting some of Megan's wedding funness (aka bachelorette and wedding) details down pat. And going to Pretty Penny for the first time. I really need to start throwing more shindigs so I can have an excuse to buy invitations. And apparently there's something wrong with me because I had a whole different interpretation of the cute mugs that said "Sometimes in life you need a plan B".
Buying Glory a new "Pets for Peace" doggie collar. I couldn't get her a tattoo so this was the next best thing.
Being part of the Schneider family, who I love, and learning that apparently if I become Catholic that means Becca's mom has to do my laundry. This is definitely going to be influential.

So after an amazing weekend of family, friends, and fun it's time to pack up and head to Kingsville for a week. Have I mentioned that I love my life?

Trying something new

2009-09-09T20:47:00.000-05:00

OH NO I am turning into one of those people who posts recipes on their blog. Before you know it I am going to start posting about crocheting a slip cover for the couch and how to make a facial scrub out of kitty litter and orange juice. Humm. No but seriously I have a good excuse in that this is seriously super easy and good (oh and pretty good for you). Plus I read online that you can freeze them and heat in the morning for breakfast on the go. We'll have to ask my mom how it goes.

Mini Frittatas

8 large eggs
1/2 cup milk (soy or regular)
nonstick spray
2 cups veggies of your choosing
1 cup shredded cheese of your choosing
pepper and salt
muffin tin

Heat oven to 375
Spray muffin tin with nonstick spray
Saute veggies (I used zucchini, baby bella mushrooms, and onion)
Beat eggs and 1/2 cup milk in a large bowl (I used 6 egg whites and 2 full eggs plus soy milk)
Mix in sauteed veggies and salt and pepper as you choose
Fill muffin tins with the mixture almost to the top
Sprinkle each with some cheese
Bake 8-12 minutes or until egg sets and puffs up a bit (mine took 11 minutes)
Wait until they cool a little to remove - mine came out easy when I used a spoon around the edges

Enjoy! I ate two and then froze the rest for my momma. We'll see how it goes. The cool thing about this recipe too is that it seems easy to add in new ingredients (like meat if you so choose, different veggies, different cheese or herbs and spices) to make it new. Easy and never boring? I'm in.

5 more

2009-09-07T23:55:00.001-05:00

Minutes of my birthday that is. Wow this day flew by. Actually these 25 years seemed to fly by :)

I am so blessed by the people, experiences, and incredible life I have had in these past 25 years. I have learned so much and have had so many joyful moments thus far. I know that people always have the silly saying when they are young that these are the best years of your life. Well these certainly have been a great 25 years but I am so excited to see what the next 25 have to bring.

Happy Birthday to me and thank you to all of the amazing people who have made each year thus far so wonderful.

Faith that grows

2009-09-04T14:43:00.000-05:00

"Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?"
- Mark 4:40

Can you tell that as my birthday is getting closer I am becoming more contemplative about life and where I am within it? I was thinking today a bit about trust. The ability to take on fear with a sense of calm and peace. Difficult right? I didn't get a tattoo of the word "peace" for nothing. I need the reminder. I need help remembering when the seas get stormy that there is a peace and faith that withstands all else.

It is funny because every time I read the passage of Jesus calming the sea the same word stands out to me: still. Almost as if he's saying "really? after everything you've seen from me and all that we've been through you STILL need this reminder?".

One of my favorite lyrics of all time is in Third Eye Blind's Semi Charmed Life (which I considered getting a tattoo of except my sister said "really will you want a Semi Charmed Life lyrics tattooed on your body for life" - still thinking about it though) that says:

I believe in a faith that grows.

I really do. I believe in the ability to know something, to truly know it and believe it and stand firmly upon it and yet to STILL need a reminder every once in awhile that fears are not only real but understandable and normal and human. Faith grows and I'm still growing too.

Reflecting

2009-09-03T17:52:00.001-05:00

As I'm inching closer towards my 25th birthday on Monday I was wondering to myself where I was last year at this time. Last year on the day I turned 24 I wrote about love. I just re-read what I wrote and am amazed at how meaningful the words I wrote still are for me:

Can we really describe it in any other way than by its characteristics? Is love a choice? An action? A feeling? A motivation?

I've learned so much in the last year, particularly about love, and yet I still am not sure if I know how to answer these questions.

I have learned that love is a choice and one that has to come from a willingness to sacrifice for another. We choose to love even when there are days or weeks or months when it is a challenge. We choose when we must fall out of love, even though that choice in and of itself is nothing compared to the actual act of it. And we choose when and how to love ourselves and when to allow ourselves to love again. It is a choice every day to wake up and love.

It is an action. It is many actions. Love for me is so wrapped up in action. Without that it is just words and unfortunately many times words can be meaningless. We "love" so many things but how many of them are you willing to put true action behind to reflect this. And if love is sacrifice for another then it cannot be done without action.

And of course it is a feeling. A scary feeling sometimes. A confusing feeling. Something that can cause joy but also sadness and anger. The love I have for some people in my life means that I have to feel so much more for them, to feel their hurt and to feel their pain but also to feel their joy and gladness.

I am so blessed that as I am about to mark another year going by I feel more loved than ever.

Musical comedy about teens? I'm in!

2009-09-02T22:13:00.000-05:00

From the channel whose news reporting I despise comes a tv show I'm super excited about for this fall: Glee! I watched the pilot episode last spring and be it the characters, the singing/dancing, or because for some reason I love shows about high schoolers (come on - the OC, One Tree Hill, Gossip Girl) I think I'm going to really like this show.

The other funny thing is that I remember watching the pilot episode this past May. It was undoubtedly an extremely tough time for me and there really is nothing like a good tv show that leaves you smiling ear to ear to let you take a break from life for an hour. I mean I love a good Law and Order or Criminal Minds every day (or two or three or sometimes a marathon Sunday) but I don't quite get the same fuzzy feeling afterwards.

If you missed the pilot you can watch it on Hulu here and then next week's episode is on Wednesday!

HH = Happy Hour

2009-09-02T00:40:00.000-05:00

Happy Hour tonight at Sawyer Park. Best line of the night from Whitney was: "when it comes to stds it's the H ones you have to worry about. Think about it". Seriously I knew I loved that girl. Makes me laugh.

Follow that yellow brick road

2009-08-31T21:22:00.000-05:00

"But I don't think crying is necessarily a bad thing because it reminds me that I'm human...although I still go to sleep at night hoping I'll be perfect when I wake up."

I love this statement from my friend Vershanna's blog. Of course as a kickass medical student out there saving lives she is pretty close to perfect (love you Vshan) but wow what a profound statement. I love how honest and just incredibly real it is to realize that although I think we all know that perfection is inattainable, it is still something we are striving for. I know that can be dangerous but it can also be incredibly motivating. Maybe not to strive for some societal standard of perfection, not some level of perfection that is stressful or worrisome, but perfection that feels like trying over again no matter what. It's the same that they same about courage. It isn't always a giant roar but rather that small, quiet voice that says I will try again tomorrow.

Thanks Vshan for the reminder.

You get what you need

2009-08-30T21:34:00.000-05:00

Do you have those moments in life? You know where everything feels ok even if it isn't completely ok. They can come out of nowhere and at the strangest times. For me it generally usually occurs when something breaks me down a little and I just have to give in and admit that I can't know or control everything that will be.

Last night I was driving home on I-10, which at 1:30 am is 6 open lanes of feeling just so completely ok. I suddenly was thinking of those moments in life I remember feeling the same way. Sitting at the hotel in Mendocino. In a church in Barcelona. In my shower in highschool. Those times when life could be confusing or uncertain but I know that regardless of how it feels in the moment it will all be fine in the end. That I'll be fine in the end.

I love those moments.

You must live in the present, launch yourself on every wave, find your eternity in each moment.
-Henry David Thoreau

It's the little things in life ...

2009-08-27T21:35:00.001-05:00

like ...

the new Facebook app. for my iPhone
free appetizers with happy hour (yay T'Afia! seriously and organic too! good call Kat)
running a mile without getting tired - this is a big accomplishment for me
mozzarella
things that make me laugh like Texts from Last Night or almost anything that makes it to the top on Digg, like this.
finding a new good blog to read or any of the ridiculous comments on posts at Gawker
that even though I only work part time and get to do it in my pjs I am STILL looking forward to the weekend
candles that cover of the smell of dog poop

Happy Thursday!

Another word for obnoxious? Facebooking?

2009-08-26T14:40:00.001-05:00

A few days ago my sister sent me this article from CNN "The 12 most annoying types of Facebookers" and now I can barely do anything on Facebook without questioning myself. Not that it is necessarily stopping me but I stop to think: ok which annoying Facebooker am I being now.

For example, Ted Kennedy passed and I came across this great video of him giving a speech after MLK's assassination on Talking Points Memo. And I was going to post it but then thought uh oh what if that would count as being a town crier.

And then today I was posting photos from the past weekend/weeks and I had a few that I thought twice about posting for sake of not being a paparazzo.

p.s. Casey hopefully you'll read this and just FYI I have a cute photo of you and Andrew on the beach that is sorta stalkerish since I'm sure you guys didn't know I was taking it. I'll have to send it to you. and p.p.s. notice my Catch Phrase blogpost title?

On that note - of stalkerishness - I will just up and confess that I am definitely a lurker. I mean seriously we all have those friends on Facebook who we don't really know very well but keep them as friends so we can check out their photos or blog posts. Uhh or is that just me? And being a lurker is kinda one of those awkward things. You know where you might accidentally mention something that you would have no way of knowing other than your stalkerish tendencies and then whoops it gets really awkward.

Well thankfully my job includes Facebooking so I have every excuse in the book to play online, annoyingly or not.

Seriously?

2009-08-25T19:20:00.000-05:00

So just yesterday (or was it the day before? whichever) I noticed that my Obama 2008 sticker was missing from the bumper of my car. Yes that's right someone actually took the time to remove the Obama sticker from my car. Welcome back to Texas. So now I of course need to replace it both to show my Democrat love and to shove it in the face of whatever damn Houston Republican felt the need to de-Obama me.

side note: the other day I saw someone driving with an Obama bumper sticker placed right smack on top of their Kerry 2004 bumper sticker. Just keep on keeping on.

Anyway back to my stolen sticker. My last bumper sticker was the free one from MoveOn.org (thanks guys) so this time around I've got to figure out which way to go.

Should I try the never fail "Texas Democrat" to cover my bases for the next howeer many years no matter who the President may be?
Or something a bit more obnoxious?Or perhaps I'll just keep it simple:

Either way I'm going to assume that maybe whoever took off my bumper sticker was just doing so because they wanted it for their own car. That's right - so popular they ran out of the real bumper stickers.

Sangria and dogs on the bed

2009-08-21T11:03:00.000-05:00

**ha I forgot to publish this post a few days ago so here it is now!**

This is basically how I felt when I got up this morning too.

I think the combination or sangria, Harley squirming all over the bed at night, and doing such a fantastic job winning at Mexican Train dominos (ok we're only halfway through the train but I'm going to gloat now since I'll likely wind up losing horrifically when all is said and done) meant that 8 am came about four hours too early.

Hanging out down here in Kingsville since yesterday. I finally am ready to admit that ok, maybe even with the breeze (which we certainly don't have in Houston) it feels quite a bit hotter down here. I'm not quite sure how that even is possible. The other day I was talking to this woman (ok it was the check out lady at Walmart) and she was saying that at least in Houston it's humid so she perspires and then cools off. I'm not sure if that's true or not but I am now stuck comparing if I like to feel like I'm in a swamp (Htown) or I prefer a giant sauna wind tunnel (Kville). Either way, thank god for AC.

More Healthcare (this time with napkins!)

2009-08-18T14:19:00.001-05:00

This is a really great and informative slideshow that lays out the basics. Seriously worth the time to check out.

Healthcare Napkins All

View more documents from Dan Roam.

GlorysGirl

I'm moving

Notables

Clarification

The Zoo of Life

Happiness is ...

Baby + Bingo = Thursday happiness

Penguins: to appreciate or fear?

Travel envy

Relaxing weekend ... at least for me

Letter of response

To be done here

Teeth and pants

"When you're a jet you're a jet all the way ..."

Hook'em

Three Words

What do I know

Oh hi 2010

Looking back at 2009

New Year's NON-Resolutions

Sense and sensitivity

What I miss about SF

Another short week

Feeling merry

This is ...

The best Christmas present ever ...

8 Questions

What happens in Vegas ...

Hot and gooey

And so it begins ...

Kids have the best ideas

Favorite new blog: The Daily What

I give up

Today I'm thankful for ...

Open letter

The waves

Life lessons from Real Simple

Things I Love Today: Dec 1, 2009

Wilson Wedding Weekend

Thanks-givings

Thanksgiving prayer

Thanklessness

Uh oh credit card

Things I Love Today: Nov 24, 2009

Things I Love Today: Nov 20 2009

Cities and Art

Why:

Thanks to TechSoup

Three-legged race

Same old blog

Hip hip "oorah"

Guess what happens in 4 weeks

Missing blog entries

Sniffle

A little bit of this, a little bit of that

You Can Sing

Proverbs: the new fortune cookies?

Guess it's better than two at a time?

Hello Monday

Who chooses trick over treat?

Good thing I'm not in medical school

Do penguins Tweet?

Case of the Mondays

Weekend wrapup

Climate change. Boom roasted.

Bag o' Bliss

Shown how to love

Shoes

Girls just want to have fun

Where are you Friday?

One day down

60 + 3.1

Hook'em G!

Story People

We're in Miami trick

Play ball

Sha la la Joseph you're doing fine.

Ready for a closeup

Hug a Veg

*Nerd nerd geek geek*

Nerd nerd geek geek