Trading the Forest for the City

Falling into the Semester

2011-09-26T09:47:00.001-04:00

It's a gray, overcast Monday morning in which we are following our Wednesday class schedule to make up for a lost Wednesday in late October. I have found that law school seems to be designed to keep you feeling off balance. Just as enough time has passed to make a schedule start feeling routine, it is throw off with something like a crazy illogical schedule change. But things are starting to feel like a rhythm even if it is more like scattered jazz than predictable pop.

But my wardrobe colors have slowly evolved into the familiar and warm autumn colors of oranges, browns and deep reds that match my silly orange tabby cat.

The colors of the Japanese maples are slowly turning the customary bright deep red and the bark of the trunks are shiny bright. Each day I take a few moments to notice and examine the changes in the big oak trees leaves. More muddy orange leaves have fallen, with yet sackfuls of muddy late season green leaves still hanging on but looking vulnerable in the slightest of breeze. The hum of the late season lawn mowing still makes it feel not yet like autumn to me as an Alaskan.

It is difficult to bring myself back from my mind wandering to thoughts of golden yellow birch leaves and the baring of the white birch trunks that I know are all on full blazing display in the land of my heart. Instead it feels like a misty filter over me as I gaze out the window of my classroom pondering how on earth there are still new flowers blooming here at this time of year. The hardy yellow and orange mums, and the the bright reds of the late-season rose bushes make me smile as I remember it is still 75* outside here and is forecasted throughout the entire week!

In the mornings it is dark and gloomy out my window as I pull on my jeans and instinctively look for my wool socks. As I venture downstairs for coffee I remember to go outside to feel the weather....it is warm and humid and there is no need for wool socks today. It will be at least another month before I see my breath in the ripeness of morning.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Lazy Days of Summer

2011-08-11T16:30:00.001-04:00

Looks like my summer days are coming to an end soon.

I'm really doing this law school thing. I have registration and the swearing in ceremony on Monday. Then Tuesday through Thursday is filled with mock classes such as The School Experience, The Judicial Process, Case Analysis, and Financial Aid Workshops. Then Friday is an Examination followed by an All-Campus Picnic.

I am anxious and excited that this time has arrived in my life where I have finally come to a point that I have been working towards for the last 3 years. I have always had a small inkling in my mind that I would enjoy being a lawyer. But my life, and my choices in my life had inhibited such a direction. Until I met Matt. We were living in Atlanta in a house I could barely afford on my meager waitressing wage after losing my construction career, when Matt asked me a question. It was a question my parents had asked me numerous time, yet at the moment when Matt said it I heard it. More importantly I heard my response. He asked me if I could go back to school and do anything what would I do?

At the time, I had an associated degree from University of Alaska Anchorage in Small Business Administration and was 29 years old. I had three dogs, bills, a car on its last leg, and $200 to my name. I was in no position at the time to go back to school. How would I pay for tuition? Books? How would I make a living and pay my rent? I remember thinking, Isn't it too late for me to start over in my career??

I told him I would go to law school and become a lawyer that specialized in construction law and federal procurement.

I always like contracts. I like how they are clear and substantially detailed and outline exactly what the parties are agreeing to do. Yet there is still so much misunderstanding and interpretations. In construction I have seen so many times the smaller company get the short end of the stick often because they don't realize what they are signing when they sign a subcontract. I would like to work in the field, but on the side of the federal government procurement contracts.

Matt asked me what I needed to do to make that happen. At the time, I was looking at 2 more years at least, to finish up my Bachelors degree. Plus three years of law school. So here I am.... it took me almost 5 years to get here. I am 34 years old now, and starting my 1L year. I will be 37 when I finish and will have almost 8 years of higher education. I still have not come to terms with the total dollars spent, but it is a lot!

So here I go. Wish me luck!

-Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

What I Did Over My Summer Break

2011-08-10T18:50:00.001-04:00

My office before....

After....

Before....

After....all set for briefs and...stuff!

Front room before.....

After.....

Kitchen, dining before.....

-after.....

Entry way before....

Organized entry area after....I love Ikea!

Scary basement before....

After... Waterproofed walls and organized laundry area.....

Scary old cabinets before....

Fresh paint, cleaned and new shelves....after! Now it's Matts work organizing area.

Under the stairs before was a spider lair! I swear there were 100 year old webs under there!

Few coats of fresh paint and new shelves went along way! Now this is where We have our freezer and our household tools....

It might not look like much but it's been a lot of little things to make it feel like home.

Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

How Time Flies

2011-08-06T17:02:00.001-04:00

It's been awhile now, I know. It seems I start all my blog posts like this these days. However this one is going to be a short one. I have just discovered Flipboard on my iPad and BlogPress. flipboard is an amazing new way to read and view all my favorites in one places. It complies all my daily sites like twitter, Facebook, my favorite blogs and makes them into one stop app that reads and looks like a digital magazine. Super cool! I've got lots os new things going on so maybe I'll start blogging again. In fact that makes me think mAybe I do need the ipad2 just for the camera! Okay... On to my test.... I'm gonna go and see how this looks on Flipboard!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Location:On the couch

What a Weekend!

2011-05-02T18:13:00.006-04:00

In our clean up efforts, we found this little critter! YIKES! I almost had a heart attack! I found him under a huge pile of leaves, he was under an old cinder block piece.

And we found this pre-historic creature! That's the biggest slug I've EVER seen! We thought we was pretty special until we found another one identical on the other side of the house.

Early Spring/Late April:

Spring has sprung! Look at the jungle growth we are battling!

Late Winter/Mid March:

This poor lot has been unloved for many decades now. It's like that show about what would happen if there were no humans. The vines and jungle growth would take over everything in just a few years! What is better? (or worse!) Jungle and overgrowth??? or Human's garbage and mess!!! Look at this monster mess we bought! It was so overwhelming, but with some serious sweat equity we made a new yard!

But this was our biggest victory to date with our new house! We still have a lot to do, but this clean up feels fresh and clean at the very least... and a very good start to projects to come! Happy Spring!

They're Here, Installed and Functional!

2011-04-11T18:37:00.002-04:00

Please don't mind my make-do shelving and plates! Ahhh, the dishwasher, it is sooo quiet and works soooo good!

The monsterous Fridge!

My new favorite pet! My GeOURgous Range!!!! Oh, I love it so much! 5 gas burners, stainless steel tray, huge oven, cast iron grill.... oh the love this appliance is going to get!

Still have lots to do, but its starting to get very comfortable around here. The kitchen needs a lot of work, which the great appliances now highlight! But all DIY-able, I hope.

Excuse me, I'm going to go make dinner and be happy!

Virginia Beach Shamrock Marathon

2011-03-22T17:35:00.003-04:00

As always, I was wishing all my loved ones were with me and could see how beautiful the beach was!

And as always, my heart is in the Last Frontier!
I had a great time on the beach! The weather was windy, sunny and perfect for me!
This was Matt's 5th Marathon in the 4th state.... He is going for 50 in 50 states. Only 46 more to go!!!

Here are the guys at 7:45 am ready to go!!!Matt just pass the half way point! Still smilin!

GO DOD GO!! Dod flew by at the Half Way marker- too fast for me to get a picture!

But I got a good shot of Dod at the last half mile. He was sprinting and so focused he didn't even see us!!!!

Matt came in the last half mile still smiling and glad to have another one in the bag!

This was Dod's first marathon! And he did GREAT! I couldn't believe how together he was at the finish! It was fun to be there for him and Matt! GREAT JOB GUYS!!!

Next year- Alabama!

ProFessionAle

2011-03-22T15:36:00.003-04:00

I guess its offical... you know you have hit a 'certain' age when you get this excited over kitchen appliances!

We put so much effort into picking these babies out! We actually got a great deal at Lowes with thier 15% off sale, and the range is all Stainless Steel/No Black. Which is what we wanted. We close tomorrow morning on the house!!! Yippeee!!

Let me tell ya...It has been crazy around here! I've been packing, doing midterms, and we went to Virginia Beach this last weekend for the Shamrock Marathon. Not to mention all the hoopla that goes with trying to close on a house when the sellers have checked out. Utility companies, realators, township issues, contractors, on and on! That reminds me I have to find an HVAC guy to come do the furance maintenance! And I need to call the tree guy!

More to come soon I promise....

New Place

2011-03-05T17:49:00.003-05:00

I missed the forest so much we decided to buy a small forest! At least that is what it feels like in the middle of the city! Here is a little preview...

Things I do, or am trying to...

2010-09-11T21:32:00.001-04:00

1.Do not eat commercially processed foods such as cookies, cakes, crackers, TV dinners, soft drinks, packaged sauce mixes, etc. Read labels!
2.Avoid all refined sweeteners such as sugar, dextrose, glucose, high fructose corn syrup and fruit juices.
3.Avoid white flour, white flour products and white rice.
4.Avoid all hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated fats and oils.
5.Avoid all refined liquid vegetable oils made from soy, corn, safflower, canola or cottonseed.
6.Do not use polyunsaturated oils for cooking, sautéing or baking.
7.Avoid foods fried in polyunsaturated oils or partially hydrogenated vegetable oils.
8.Do not practice veganism. Animal products provide vital nutrients not found in plant foods.
9.Avoid products containing protein powders as they usually contain carcinogens formed during processing; and consumption of protein without the cofactors occurring in nature can lead to deficiencies, especially of vitamin A.
10.Avoid processed, pasteurized milk; do not consume ultrapasteurized milk products, lowfat milk, skim milk, powdered milk or imitation milk products.
11.Avoid factory-farmed eggs, meats and fish.
12.Avoid highly processed luncheon meats and sausage.
13.Avoid rancid and improperly prepared seeds, nuts and grains found in granolas, quick rise breads and extruded breakfast cereals, as they block mineral absorption and cause intestinal distress.
14.Avoid canned, sprayed, waxed and irradiated fruits and vegetables. Avoid genetically modified foods (found in most soy, canola and corn products).
15.Avoid artificial food additives, especially MSG, hydrolyzed vegetable protein and aspartame, which are neurotoxins. Most soups, sauce and broth mixes and most commercial condiments contain MSG, even if not indicated on the label.
16.Individuals sensitive to caffeine and related substances should avoid coffee, tea and chocolate.
17.Avoid aluminum-containing foods such as commercial salt, baking powder and antacids. Do not use aluminum cookware or deodorants containing aluminum.
18.Do not drink fluoridated water.
19.Avoid synthetic vitamins and foods containing them.
20.Avoid distilled liquors.
21.Do not use a microwave oven.

Do you have the balls to really change the food system?

2010-09-11T21:12:00.001-04:00

110
by Rebecca Thistlewaite

9 Sep 2010 12:49 PM

Read More About
farmers markets, farming, Food, food movement, Living Green, organic food Share3238Print

Duroc-ing out: This boar has got what it takes.
Photo courtesy of Dave Hamster via FlickrYou watched Food, Inc. with your mouth aghast. You own a few cookbooks.

You go out to that hot new restaurant with the tattooed chef who's putting on a whole-animal, nose-to-tail pricy special dinner. You bliss out on highfalutin' pork rinds, braised pigs feet, rustic paté, and porchetta.

Later that weekend, you nibble on small bites as you stroll down the city street, blocked off for a weekend "foodie" festival.

Then you go back to your Monday-Friday workaday routine, ordering pizza and buying some frozen chicken breasts at Costco ("Hey, at least they're 'organic'!") to get you through your hectic week. (You make time for at least two hours a day of reality TV.) You manage to get to a farmers market about once a month, but the rest of the time your eggs and meat come from Costco, Trader Joe's, and maybe Whole Paycheck now and again.

Guess what? You are NOT changing the food system. Not even close.

You're no better or different than the average American. You pat yourself on the back, you brag about your lunch on Twitter, you pity your Midwestern relatives eating their chicken-fried steak and ambrosia salad, but you secretly loathe your grocery store bill -- which consumes only 8 percent of your income while your car devours 30 percent. Your bananas and coffee may be Fair Trade, but everything else is Far From It. The dozen eggs you splurge on once a month may be from local, outdoor-roaming birds, but all the other eggs you eat come from a giant egg conglomerate in either Petaluma, Calif., or Pennsylvania.

And even that pig in that nose-to-tail fancy dinner came from a poor farmer in Kansas or Iowa because the restaurant is too cheap or lazy to find local, pastured pork. And the ingredients for that foodie festival touting itself as local and sustainable? They mostly came from other states except a few ingredients they highlight as being "local." But those restaurants, caterers, and food trucks just go back to using the low-cost distributor once the event is over.

So. Want to make a difference?

Here's what a sustainable food system actually needs you to do, in no particular order:

Educate yourself:

Don't take anything at face value -- read, listen, observe, research. Look at both sides of an issue and all points in between.
Read not just the Omnivore's Dilemma, but also Silent Spring, Sand County Almanac, and anything you can find by Wendell Berry.
Learn why farmers and ranchers who don't earn enough to cover their costs are not sustainable and that something has to suffer as a result, whether it be quality, animal welfare, land stewardship, wages, health care, mental & physical health, or family life.
Understand why sustainable food should actually cost 50 to 100 percent more than industrial, conventional food. Figure out how to buy food more directly from farmers and ranchers, if you want to avoid some of the transportation/distribution/retail markup costs.
Know the names of more farmers and ranchers than celebrity chefs, including at least one you can call by first name -- and ask how their kids are doing.
Understand that if you want to see working conditions and wages come up for farming and food processing workers, that you will have to pay more for food. Be OK with that.
Learn about the Farm Bill and plan to write a letter/make a phone call when it comes up for re-authorization.
Chill out:

Don't expect a farmer to have year-round availability and selection. Alter your diet to match the seasonal harvests in your area. Get used to not eating tomatoes until at least July, apples in late August to December, citrus in winter, greens in spring. Don't complain.
Realize that even animal products are seasonal because animals have biological cycles. Know that chickens produce much less eggs in winter when days are shorter and even come to a complete stop when they are replacing their feathers (molting). Consequently you may have to eat less eggs and pay more for them during that time. Don't complain.
Don't expect the farmer/rancher to sacrifice the health and welfare of the animal for your particular fad diet du jour (no corn, no soy, no wheat, no grains, no antibiotics ever, even if the animal will die, no irrigation, no hybrid breeds, no castrating, no vaccines ... what is it this week?)
Understand that the tenderloin/filet is the most expensive muscle on the animal and that there is very little of it. Don't expect there to be filet every time you go to market. There are finite parts to an animal. Be OK with that. Embrace it. Learn to cook other parts.
Understand that there are not enough USDA-inspected slaughter and butcher facilities, which makes special orders difficult and limits how the meat can be processed. If you want a particular cut, organ meat, or process, then buy a half- or whole animal so you can ask the butcher to make that happen yourself.
Don't call a farmer a week before you're having a pig roast to ask for a dressed-out pig, delivered fresh to you, for under $300. We are not magicians, just farmers.
Get your hands dirty:

Sweat on a farm sometime.

Participate in the death of an animal that you consume.
Successfully cook a roast. You don't need steaks and chops to make an amazing meal.
Get a chest freezer and put some food away in it
Cook and enjoy at least one of the following: chicken feet, gizzards, liver, heart, kidney, sweet breads, head cheese, or tripe.
Save your bones for soup, beans, stock, or your doggies!
If you own land that's not being farmed, tell some farmers about it. If you rent land to farmers, offer a fair rental price or fair lease (long-term is better), and then stay out of the way and don't meddle or hinder the farmers. They are not your pet farmers nor your landscapers.
Throw your consumer dollar behind a couple beginning farmers or lower-income farmers. Be concerned about how landless, lower-income producers are going to compete with the increasing numbers of wealthy landownerss getting into farming as a hobby.
Help your local farmers do their job:

Bring your kids/grandkids/nieces & nephews to the farmers market and to real farms as often as possible
If you ask to visit the farm, also offer to help out or spend some decent money while you are there. Otherwise, wait patiently until the next group farm tour. Don't expect a farmer to drop everything just to give you a special tour.
Consider making a low-interest loan, grant, or pre-payment to a farmer to help her cover her operating expenses. Stick with that farmer for the long haul, as long as he continues to supply quality product and can stay in business.
Give more than just money to a farmer or rancher -- maybe a Christmas card, invitation to a party, offer to spiff up their website, or watch their kid for an hour at the farmers' market.
Really put your money where your mouth is:

Don't complain about prices. If price is an issue for you on something, ask the farmer nicely if he has any less expensive cuts (or cosmetically challenged "seconds"), bulk discounts, or volunteer opportunities. But don't ask the farmer to earn less money for his hard work.
Don't compare prices between farmers who are trying to do this for a living and those that do it only as a hobby (and don't have to make a living from what they produce and sell).
Share in a farmer's risk by putting up some money and faith up front via a Community Supported Agriculture share. And then suck it up when you don't get to eat something that you paid for because there was a crop failure or an animal illness.
Buy local when available, but also make a point of supporting certified Fair Trade, Organic products when buying something grown in tropical countries
Buy organic not just for your health, but for the health of the land, waterways, wildlife, and the workers in those fields
Figure out the handful of restaurants that buy and serve truly sustainable food and become loyal to them. Occasionally give them feedback and thank them.
If your budget doesn't allow you to eat out often, eat out infrequently but at the places with the best integrity that may be more costly.
Ask the waiter where the restaurant's meat or fish comes from, and how it was raised before you order it. If the waiter gives an insufficient answer, order vegetarian and tell them what you want to see next time if they want your business again.
Don't buy meat from chain grocery stores, not even Whole Paycheck. Understand that for them to get meat in volume with year-round selection and availability, they have to work with large distribution networks and often international suppliers, and don't pay enough to the producers for them to even cover their costs.
Get the majority of your produce, meat, eggs, dairy, bread, dried fruit, nuts, and olive oil from farmers markets, CSAs, U-pick farms, and on-farm stands. Try to buy from the actual farmer, not a middleman. Get the rest of your food from the bulk section, dairy case, or bakery of your local independent grocer.
Pay for your values. If it hurts, don't have fewer values, just eat less food (sorry, but most Americans could stand to do a bit of this)
I admit, this is a lot to digest.

What I am saying is that we can't be casual about the food system we want to see. If more people don't show some commitment, and take part in some of the hard work that farmers, ranchers, and farmworkers do on a daily basis, then we cannot build a sustainable food system.

You don't have to be a passive consumer. You are part of this system, too. Don't just eat, do something more!

Almost a Year Since My Last Post!

2010-06-10T21:55:00.004-04:00

Memorial Weekend Hike on the PA AT.

I'll ease myself back into bloggin more and watching less tv.

2009-10-14T20:34:00.000-04:00

No Comment

2009-10-01T23:37:00.001-04:00

Mooooose

2009-09-30T17:57:00.000-04:00

Where Am I?

2009-09-23T18:41:00.000-04:00

Finalitis

2009-07-30T16:27:00.002-04:00

I do this to myself every time. I am usually on top of things, I get assignments and papers done no problem. Then finals week rolls around and it is like I suddenly turn into lazy student. I am not sure why it happens, I know it is all coming and what I need to get done, but I just don't do it until the last second. Why?

In another great way to avoid doing the work at hand I have been thinking about why I don't just do it:

My favorite reason is that I like the rush of the final minutes getting something done. It is a bad habit I picked up in my past occupations doing bids and proposals which are constantly changing up to the very last minute possible. I have always said that I loved that rush of bidding and getting things barely out the door, then only to find out that you rocked it and won the contract! Oh Happy Day!!!!

I also believe that I do my best work when pressured and with a looming deadline. It isn't a looming deadline if you have 3 weeks, or even 4 days. A "looming deadline" is like, tomorrow. It ends up being my best work because I didn't rewrite, reedit, rethink every little thing. I tend to get super nervous if I have too much time to re-read and over analysis every sentence. Better for me to just do it once and get it done.

An external reason for my final-itis that I am afflicted with every semester is the timing of finals week. It is always before the Christmas holiday, or the start of summer, or summer break (like now). I always have plans and fun stuff to do, as well as fun people to see and spend time with, this makes it easy to understand why it is hard for me to focus on the tasks at hand.

I guess I should stop over analyzing my reasoning for procrastinating and get back to working on my final exam. Luckily they are all take homes, well and unlucky because I put them off til the last minute. It is a beautiful day outside in the city and I am in a windowless computer lab where everyone seems to know each other and are all chatty. Yet another reason for me to stop working, because its too loud in here!

Wish me luck getting through this next week!

City Stories

2009-07-23T17:31:00.002-04:00

Thank goodness it is raining today! I needed a break from the sunshine. My Alaska roots run deep - when it's sunny (even when it is sunny EVERYDAY) I still have the drive in my bones to QUICK GO OUTSIDE ENJOY IT! SOAK IT IN! It wears me out after awhile! Atlanta used to really do me in with all the sunshine and great weather. Anyways, no pictures to share today, but some funny stories.

Act 1

Yesterday in NYC around the NYU campus area, actually around the corner from my class building... there was a guy that looked like a construction worker. You know with the plaid shirt unbuttoned over a plain white tee? He had on work boots and jeans, he didn't look homeless in anyway, I mean he was clean. But the weird thing was....

He was rolling around on his back like a grizzly bear over the subway vent grate.

I wasn't sure if he couldn't' get up or if he was doing it on purposed. It looked like on purpose, like he was itching his back or something - like a grizzly bear does!

The part that really cracked me up about the situation? I walked right by him, practically over him, like it was a totally normal thing to see. I just walked right on by without thinking about it. Then it hit me how odd that was and I didn't react!

At my class that night I told a friend about it because it was so silly. He responded with "Oh did he have nasty feet?! I've seen that guy! His feet are gross and he picks his belly button!"

"No," I told him, "he had on boots. I'm pretty sure he wasn't homeless." We both laughed about how seeing things like that is so normal here in the city and how it is so weird at the same time.

Act 2

I think I saw Blue's dad. Also around the corner from my class building I saw a little old lady with a giant Blue Great Dane female. She was gorgeous, the dog that is, she had white socks and floppy ears and the same color as Blue. Behind them was a frail old man walking a GIANT Blue Great Dane male! He was at least 6 inches taller than the female and twice as wide easy. He was HUGE, his muscle definition looked a lot like Blue. It could of been his dad. Other than Blue was born in Alaska.

I regret not stopping and talking to them. People stop me all the time with the dogs when we're walking and mostly it is awkward and they come off a little crazy. So I don't do it to others when I don't have the dogs. Out of courtesy you know.

Act 3

On the ride home last night the bus was pretty full. It has been a lot lately for some reason. Lots of business people and people with luggage like there traveling. Anyways I thought I had the two seats to myself at first because the bus driver was in his seat and honking the horn to start backing up. And a woman came running through the gate door, he let her on. She was wearing light blue polyester slacks and a dark blue screen printed tee shirt tucked in. She also had a violin case slung over her shoulder and an overflowing canvas tote. The violin easily went in the overhead, then she sat next to me.

That's what I get for sitting next to the window and allowing an empty seat next to me. I like to sleep so I got all situated with my blow up U-shaped neck pillow and my audio book on it's last few chapters. As usual, I had just started to doze off when she turned on the overhead light. She still had that stuffed tote on her lap. She pulled out a large yellow envelope and held it close to her chest for a minute. I was trying not to look, but it seemed odd. Then she sat and just stared at it in front on her for another minute. I thought she was going to put it away, maybe she was thinking about work or whatever. Finally she pulled out the contents, it was sheet music. I'm no musician by any stretch, but it looked complicated, there were a LOT of notes all tied together on every measure. But then she started.

She started fingering the music. Like air guitar, but air violin. Or it looked more like piano to tell you the truth, but since she had a violin I wasn't sure.

I thought she'll only do this for a little while. The overhead light doesn't just shine down on your seat by the way. At night it casts its light around the surrounding seats too. And it's annoying if you are trying to sleep.

She air pianoed the ENTIRE way home, and there was construction! For over an hour and a half I sat next to an air piano.

This will probably sound ridiculous, but it is my blog... I swear I could hear the music in her head. It was so distracting, at times I felt like it was louder than my audio book. I apparently have a strong imagination I know. I thought about turning mine down, but I really wanted to finish my book.

So I did. I finished my book. I couldn't really hear, but I think she was pretty good.

Another day, another bus ride home.

Miss Me??

2009-07-21T16:54:00.004-04:00

I think everyone might miss me a bit in July. I'm busy this time of year! But I won't go into that because I know most people couldn't care less about the Tour. I've also been busy with the end of the semester wrapping up. Just a few more weeks, so that means papers to write and more papers to write!

We've been walking a lot lately too. Every Sunday I have been trying to get out and find a new trail around here. Last Sunday Matt went with us and we did about 9 miles on a trail called D&L trail, plus the boys and I did our regular 2 miles. Almost a half marathon without really trying! The next day I thought I'd be sore, but wasn't the least bit. That was really good.

I just wanted to check in and say hi! Next Sunday is the last day for the Tour, I'll be looking for a good, long walk after that- I'm always sad for a few days when it's over.

My highlights of Stage 8 into Saint-Girons

2009-07-11T07:57:00.009-04:00

130km It's a beautiful day on the Tour de France. The boys left Andorre-la-Vieille early (6 am for me!) this morning with sun and blue sky high in the mountains. It's a HUGE downhill to start the day - the helicopter views are GORGEOUS with the peleton in single file.

132km Georgie (Hincapie) has bridged the gap and caught up with the breakaway with Cadel, Thor and Fabian.

122km Fabian is pissed that Cadel is in the breakaway group. There is a lot of hand gestures and head shaking at Cadel. They are apparently telling him GO BACK TO THE PELETON! Cadel is stone faced and taking his pull at the front of the small group. Georgie is sitting on his wheel.

120km Thor is trying to talk some sense into Cadel. Cadel looks surprised and is gesturing to go forward. Thor drops in behind him.

118km Fabian it looks is yelling about Cadel to the group, his hands are all over.

114km Flectr is sick of the stupid drama and puts the motor on to pull away.

113km The peleton is swallowing up the breakaway group with stupid Cadel.... Fabian - I think in frustration - takes off into no man's land to get to the leader. That was fun to watch.

112,4km The frustration from the Cadel drama seems to have hit the peleton immediately. There is a move from a few - Georgie and Thor are in there too! Go George!!

110 km The Sprint points are coming up.

109,5km I love George. He is just so cute and good hearted. You can see his sweetness when he rides, at least I can. Thor goes for the points!

108km The breakaway group is apparently talking and are glad that Cadel is back in the pelton where he should be. Now they will work together. Hahaha, no one likes a bad attitude like Cadel! He's like the kid on the playground that got kicked out of the 4square game cause no one likes him!

106km Wow... the young frenchman, Fellu, from yesterday's stage win has the whole polkadot kit goin' shorts, socks and all.

105km Uh oh. Here comes another move from the peleton... someone is trying to get across. 2 got away, I dont' know who it is.

104km Fabian is barking instructions into the radio - TELL ME WTF IS GOING ON BACK THERE! Boy he is on it today, grrrrrrrrr!

101km Those 2 strays got away and are coming up on the breakaway group. The peleton is on the chase close behind. Remains of the castle are cool. I am loving the views today. I wanna go hike and camp for a week in these mountains! Can you do that there like you can in the US?

99,5km I think Fabian looks better in yellow. Red makes him look a little pudgey. I know that is ridiculous considering he is like 170# on his 6'3" frame, but red isn't his color. He looks good in white too.

98km Georgie always looks good. He makes the new THR kits look good. Although I was partial to him in the light blue of last years kits.

97km Oh good, Phil and Paul have come to work, do they sleep in or something? I do like the Austrailian guy that commentates in the mornings. He gives me the info I want and then is quiet sometimes. It's kinda nice to have quiet once in awhile. Sometimes I zone out with Paul and Phil because they never stop talking even when it's slow. Did you see the Livestrong video yesterday of the inside of the versus truck? That is now a new dream job on my list.... I just wanna be an assistant or something, just to be in there.

93km Sanchez took off, then decided to wait for the group. That was funny. Fabian looks content with the group.

92,6km Did I mention I love George Hincapie? He is babysitting Thor. OH Georgie is going after Thor for the points! Thor exploded away! No biggie, George is cuter! I like to imagine George getting his directions from his team and him being like, OK. Like now- the team car said GEORGE GET THOSE POINTS FROM THOR! and Georgie was like OK I'LL TRY!!! and he did!

90,6km FEEDING POINT.... I'm hungry too, but I don't wanna miss anything. I am doing the Lance Manorexia (his word from Men's Journal) diet- two smoothies a day to replace meals. It offsets the wine I'm consuming during the replays at night!

89,2km It cracks me up how the fans pick up every little thing the boys throw to the side of the road. Easy clean up!

89km Ok, I am going to grab some food and let MY boys out real quick. Hope I don't miss anything!!!

85km Wow. I should be out on a bike ride this morning- it is perfect here in Pennsylvania! It's too early for my boys, Petey wouldn't go outside. Yum, I have soy yogart with lots of fresh blueberries and raspberries and organic granola! Yummie....

83,6km Oscar Peirre has abandoned. Bummer. Always sad to see a great rider drop out so early from a crash. Poor guy. I hope he doesn't cry.

83km Really Phil and Paul, do you really think it is surprising that ASTANA looks so relaxed? Of course they are not concerned, like the whole team is in the top 20!

82km Thor is too heavy, he drops back. They say the fashion world is hard on body image. They are saying Thor is too big to get over the mountain. oooh, pretty country side. Thor is cute though, I just have a thing for George...Thor doesn't look too big here... I couldn't find a pic with his shirt off.

81,8km Lance says good job to the polkadot boy.

80,1km What does 'hamlet' mean? Like village? I just looked up Thor's weight, yeah he's heavy at 180# ...Check out hot Georgie! His is 6'3" and 162... looks pretty perfect.

78,1km That was nice, Sanchez offered his soda to the other guys in the breakawy with him. Gotta love that about this sport how they share...ahhh.... a cutie puppy along the side.

77,7km Those are just donkeys, not the elusive black horse (pony).

77,3km Fabian looks good (other than the red jersey) and determined today. Sometimes it looks like they are just chatten and talkin away while they ride. I'd be one of those, practically annoying, just talkin away!

76,4km Still 3 Sundays to go.... Phil says. I think our ol' favorite commentators are getting tired already! The views today! I wish I had a big tv to watch on instead of the laptop, I could get lost in the view.

75,3km Yay George! I say this to myself everytime they say his name. Do you have a favorite that you do that for too?

74,km Sanchez could be the new yellow jersey if this stays. See Cadel? See how if you are a nice guy you have good bike race karma? You can't be a jerk and win.

74,3 km Casar is downin that gel!!! I think he ate through the wrapping! Paul said CASAR is nibbling good points. Funny he is nibbling gel packs!

72km Did you see Thor throw that wrapper on the ground? I'm not going to comment on that. oooh, look at that summit view with the peleton single file.

70km Fabian had a flat?? When?? Where??? I missed it!

68km COOOOWS!!!!!!!!! Fabian is all shakey legs and doing self massage. Must be gettin tired I dont' see anyone else doing that. I think Fabian is pretty good looking, but he kinda has girlie legs. Thor has MONSTER legs!

67,2km Popy is leading the peleton down. There is that word again, the 'hamlets'. Popy works good for Lance and Alberto, but wouldn't work for nasty Cadel. It is because ASTANA is nice to him, Cadel was/is a jerk. No one wants to work for a jerk.

61km Now my yummie breakfast is settling I'm gettin tired. I might doze off....Blue is growling in his sleep next to me. zzzzzzzzzzzz wake me up for the Cole Dan Yes.

29,3km I just woke up, I had to turn on the ac. It's getting warm here. I woke up to GEORGE IS GIVING UP! Now they are saying how smart he is for stopping his lone chase and is waiting for the peleton to pick him back up.

28,2km I wonder if it is as akward as we all think between Georgie and Lance being on different teams. I wonder if it's weird for THR? I dreamt I was George's wife and we were walking in Girona.

27km Then I woke up to the abnoxious children that I now live between... they are about 3 and SO LOUD lately. Always yelling! I've read that George wants more kids, yeah, I'll never be his wife.

25km Looks like these 4 are going to go to the end. Sanchez may take it.

24,8km The Peleton caught up with George. He did his job for the day.

24km Saxo Bank guys attack as Lance has a moment with a teammate. Lance looked surprised! What are they doing?

21 km Le Couserans is awful pretty. It looks warm too.

20km Last time they can take drinks from thier cars. >>mcewen is on twitter??? I must go find him.

16,8km That was a silly sprint. It was a non-sprint for points. They were taking on drinks!

15,5km The peleton is speeding up taking seconds out of the breakaway.

14,7 km This is the first time I've seen the yellow jersey all day. I know I fell asleep but still... How are they always so prepared with the matchy shorts and gear? Was he planning on being in yellow? Does every rider have spare yellow, green and polka dot shorts, socks, shoes and bikes? That is a lot of spares if they do!

11,9km David Millar is lookin good this year. Polkadot boy kinda looks like a candy bar.

9,8 km Here we are inside the 10k marker.... who's gonna make a move? It says Sanchez has been doing all the work. Let's see if he has it in him.

4,4km There goes the attacks! ooooh the drama!!

1km It's getting crazy! AND SANCHEZ takes it! No change in the overall, whew!

Philly on the 4th

2009-07-09T12:16:00.005-04:00

I love this picture of us...
It was a really great night. It wasn't as crowded as we thought it would be. We rode SEPTA into the city from Norristown thinking it would be crazy packed, but it wasn't necessary- we could of drove in no problem. SEPTA was free on the ride home.

It was a beautiful sunset. PERFECT weather- 80 something with a light wind, couldn't of been better!

I'm not all into Sheryl Crow, or as I call her 'Lances ex-girlfriend'...but she rocked! It was hit after hit after hit. But I'm still glad they broke up.

By the way....Lance is ROCKIN' the Tour de France!

I'm in love with the silliest man!

More Jewel

2009-07-02T14:50:00.002-04:00

I wish I had my camera (seemed tohave misplaced it somewhere at home!) - I am completly soaked from head to toe. It looks like I took a shower with my clothes on! It was POURING downtown when I got off the subway at WTC. It was clear and sunny in Midtown. The ONE day I decided to forgo the umbrella in my bag and opt for a cap thinking it would maybe sprinkle a little since it looked so nice. I won't do that again!

I figured out another reason why New Yorkers always opt for black clothes. Black clothes aren't AS noticeable that they are wet when you are caught in the rain. I'm wearing olive green cotton pants.... yeah, not a good choice. I look a wreck!

Tonight we scored FREE tickets to see Jewel perform at the pre-taping of the Macy's 4th of July celebration that will air on tv on the 4th. She is performing a 1 hour set on the U.S.S. Intrepid and her fans were invited through her website. www.jeweljk.com Matt has tomorrow off for the holiday so he is going to meet me later tonight.

I was feeling pretty awesome, til the rain.

But a free Jewel show always helps! *wink*

Before and After

2009-06-29T15:49:00.014-04:00

The outside yard was just as much of a disaster as the inside but we didn't take any pictures. There are no words for how happy we are to have a FOR SALE sign in the front yard!

Somewhere (Alaska?) Over The Rainbow....

2009-06-21T02:53:00.004-04:00

...Skies are blue. They were yesterday for a little while....anyhow...

Happy Father's Day!!!

Happy Summer Solistice!

The Longest Day of The Year!

Yippeee!

My mother and I are so weird...we always get excited that "it's all downhill from here" as far as daylight goes. Now we start losing seconds, and then minutes... and then the next thing you'll know it's the holidays and snow again.

Is that depressing or what?!

All I can say is....THIS is my weather forcast this week:

Nothing like loggin on to see that eh? I think it is making me cranky. Or maybe I'm just tired.

Guess Where I Was Today

2009-06-20T00:45:00.004-04:00

NY Miles: 5.09

PA Miles: 4.3

After a 5 mile walk just on the streets of New York, I headed indoors and probably walked another 5 miles!

Full Report Tomorrow- My feet and me need a good night's sleep after all that.

I Wish U Were Here

2009-06-18T00:12:00.011-04:00

Well here it is, I've made it a whole six weeks of this crazy commuting life! I can't believe it's been 6 weeks already going back and forth. I'm just about half way through the summer semester and have really, REALLY been enjoying going to school at NYU. Is it supposed to be this enjoyable? I keep thinking I am really missing something. There is just so much to discover at NYU and within the city itself.

Tonight was my Asia Culture class. It is my only class that ALWAYS goes to right at 9:30pm. Which normally I wouldn't mind the late hour at all, but my bus leaves at 10:00pm.... sharp, so I gotta book it. It's about a 5 minute walk to the subway and then a 10-12 minute ride once I'm on the [fast] train. The express train seems to regularly come at 9:32 or so- which means IF class gets out a couple minutes early I'm on the fast train and at the Bus Station by 9:50 or so which includes the 5 minute walk [if I walk slow] through the transfer station.

Tonight however we got our first tests back. She STARTED handing them out at 9:29 and mine was just about last. (I got a B+) I am also kinda starting to make friends so I was a little slow walking out since I was talking and thinking I was AOK on the commute home since I've got it down after six weeks!

By the time I got to the subway I had missed the express train and it seemed like forEVER for the local train to come. Then of course it stopped at EVERY stop and we had to wait for the Express to unload at the Bus Station before we could unload. I had my cell phone watching the minutes tick by, I found a ponytail holder in my backpack and put my hair back. I latched my pack on tight and planned to make a SPRINT for it.

The train FINALLY pulled in at 9:47pm. My heart was pounding- I am NOT good at cutting it close, I hate the adrenaline rush and I always doubt my ability to actually run in a crowd and leap up stairs. What if I totally poop out in front of everyone, how embarressing!

But I had to if I was going to make the bus! I jog/ran along the platform and up the first set of stairs... two at a time I might add! Then around a sharp corner trying not to run into anyone- down a triple flight of stairs with like 6 old women in my way, but I passed most of them and didn't fall, nor did they thank goodness!

Then it is another short set of stairs, again two at a time- I know! You're totally impressed! I'm thinking to myself, maybe I am in pretty good shape [how sad is that, it was like 2 minutes?!!] Then it is about a 100 foot dash and then a small incline that slows the entire crowd down dramatically. I kept running, thinking I would be exhausted but I wasn't! It was just my heart from being so DAMN late was pounding!

There was some kinda music/dancing thing going on so there was a big crowd by the exits, of course. I ran through the turn thingy and ran passed some Port Authority Police Officers, down the last flight of stairs and made it to the bus gate at 9:55.

Whew!

The bus was super full, I got like one of the last 5 seats. When it's full like that I always try to sit next to someone that:

a) Has earphones in,

b) if they are sleeping that is even better,

c) and who ever looks like they don't smell.

Once I sat behind a guy sitting next to someone he didn't know and HE TALKED THE WHOLE TRIP, THEN he asked the guy if he could borrow his cell phone. And the guy let him! I always worry I'll end up next to someone like that.

I felt bad tonight because I was SWEATING from running to the bus. The poor guy I was sitting next too I am sure was like Oh My God.... GROSS! But he just pretended I wasn't there. [That's a New York ability I'm working on- pretending someone two inches from you isn't actually there! It's harder than it sounds, it is very unnatural to me.]

My feet are holding up really good these days. As I relax on the bus I always survey how my feet and legs feel after walking all day. After reading (ok, yes it was an audiobook, but it was GOOD!) the book BORN TO RUN about the Tarahumara Indians and running barefoot as we have naturally evolved to do I, myself have been experimenting with barefoot running and walking differently.

I've been wearing my moccasins that normally I would say kill my feet because they have no support and I can feel every pebble under foot. But now that is what I'm going for. I walked 6 miles yesterday and another 3 today plus the running in them and you know what? My feet and legs feel really good! Tired yes, but not achey or painful at all. I think I may be on to something here.

A couple nights ago when I got home I headed out with the boys for our regular walk. It was nice I was thinking, cool and damp- it actually felt dark. I really like it when it FEELS dark. About a mile from the house I felt a few little drops and didn't think too much of it. The next thing I know it's a COMPLETE downpour. [It's pouring right now too] Blue HATES the rain, and I wasn't prepared for it so we started running home. I was wearing my Crocs which my feet slip in them when they are wet because there is so much room in them. So I took them off and we ran home BAREFOOT! It was wonderfully fun! And liberating! It makes me feel like a little kid, and honestly its almost like a foot massage to FEEL everything with my feet.

Crazy.

So yes, lots and LOTS of walking in the city [and at home with the boys]. Yesterday I also had my first celebrity sighting. No, not Sean Penn - although I think he lives in New York too.

Victor Garber. He was the evil Professor Calligan in Legally Blonde. And he's been in a lot of other stuff too. Several times on Law and Order. And he was in Milk with Sean Penn.

I had just got off the phone with my mom telling her HOW I LOVE NEW YORK! and particularly the West Village area [I SOOO wanna live there]. I'm walking along feeling all cool and happy that I'm there. I'm thinking to myself maybe I'll see someone FAMOUS! [I play this game alot in my head] I scan everyone's face looking, and BAM, there he is, I like almost bumped into him. He was walking with another guy and the Professor, I mean Victor, was talking away with his hands in the air and wearing dark sunglasses. How cool is that??!!

I am so incredibly drawn to the city, it's so not me, but then it is so perfectly me. It's like an adventureland for adults, but not all cartooney like Vegas is. It's all just daily life stuff, but it's ANYTHING you can imagine and everything you would or could want to do with your daily life. (Except Mountains, there are no mountains to see)

Did you know that it wasn't always flat? When they first plotted it and developed the island they flattened it on purpose, the whole thing! They wanted to build a fantasy city. It's absurdly unnatural, but yet with all the people and masses flowing it feels alive and totally natural because of the human energy. I can't get enough!

Matt and I are going to Staten Island on Saturday and to get his fix of the city for the day. He FINALLY gets back Friday. He has worked SO hard on getting his house in Charlotte fixed up and on the market. Finally. It is officially FOR SALE. Here is a sneak peek of the work he (and I) did in the last month! From this:

To this (and it looks even better in real life!):

While he has been working, I walk around and amuse myself. I play this game where I try to get the tourists on the buses to wave at me. Like in Alaska... all the tourists wave on the buses and the trains as they go by.

It's fun.

Here they all look right at me, but don't wave back.

One day, they'll ALL wave back!

Then they will know the fun that Alaskan tourist have [in Alaska].

I also play this game- as I walk I take notes of all the things I see that people I love would really love to see too. Like, oh I don't know.... my mom.

Lighting stores...they always remind me of my mom. I found one area that I swear has like five blocks of NOTHING but light fixtures!

Ah hem,

*Tap, Tap*

Are you reading this mom?!

Like this Tile store, it was HUGE! And I thought my MOM would lOVE this! But she isn't here.

Or today, I was in the West Village again. There was a line of ladies- young and old(er) all lined up behind these black velvet ropes like a night club. There were guys in white shirts, black tie/pants/sunglasses holding them back. Then I saw the sign...

D&G Sample Sale Today

I didn't have my camera so you'll just have to trust me. It was odd, spectacular and...

MY MOM WASN'T there to see it!!

How would THAT have been to actually GO to a real life Sample Sale. Hmmm? To stumble upon one no less. I mean I've read about them, but now I know where one is, or was...today. I mean, I actually SAW it, with my own eyes.

How cool, we coulda waited in LINE!

For a SALE!

Mom WHEN are you coming to NEW YORK! It will be The Ultimate Girl Time.

For real.

Holiday Planning

2009-06-15T20:24:00.002-04:00

Man I love living in this corner of the country. I was just talking with Matt and was all like 'so what are we going to do for the 4th?' It will be our first time spending the holiday together although it is right around when we went on our first date 3 years ago.

Of course The Statue of Liberty would be amazing, but as we have learned NYC is SOOO busy on holidays. Besides we'll save that for NEXT year when we LIVE there!

Philadelphia is the birthplace of the Constitution so I'm going to call it a no-brainer. We are spending Independence Day in Philly! I texted Matt 'Free concert with Sheryl Crow?!' Matt texted back 'sweeeet'

I'll say.

New Life

2009-06-14T19:19:00.002-04:00

It's funny how a new person is created and born, and you just love them for no reason. But I do, love her, a lot. I don't even know her really, we only met once, but I completely love her. I cried on my way to see her for the first time.

She is so tiny...look at the little hand!

I love the purple blanket, she looks like a little native baby swaddled in it.

Oh, those tiny hands and fingers! I just wanna paint them pink!

But those days will be coming soon... I spend a lot of time these days thinking about all the fun we'll have as she grows up.

Everyone that knows me well knows that I don't really dig kids a whole lot. But when I love someone and they have a baby, well I just can't help but fall in love...

Like totally, in love.

Oh my.

Long Walk With The Boys

2009-05-31T23:13:00.007-04:00

Walking Miles Today: 7.2
May Miles: Good Question
Temp on Departure: 74* sunny with a nice wind

Yesterday and today I was feeling overwhelmed with loneliness and homesickness. I hadn't felt either for quite awhile. The cuz is spending the summer in Alaska, I think that is what caused it- knowing she is there- and I'm not. Although at the same time I don't really want to be, I have so much going on here. Once in awhile it just hits me, it starts with a headache, then an overwhelming nauseous and then a big ol' stomach ache. I'm always shocked at how terrible it feels and how PHYSICAL it is (at least for me). But I woke up this morning and it was a beautiful day with lots of sunshine, no humidity, some wind and really not alot to do. I had a very productive last few days, so I thought today we are going to walk. And walk we did! It's been awhile since we walked and took pictures like we used to in Atlanta (daily). Petey wasn't sure what we were doing. I guess that is why he put his head in the bushes!

Petey says"Oh, we're taking pictures?"

"Oh, well let me pose then...Common Blue- Look FIERCE!"

There is a ridge that I can see from our house, I have yet to make it over the hill, but today we walked to it. I haven't figured out the path to get over it safely. Most of the roads/streets have no shoulder and no sidewalk.

But there is a great walking path that has all these neat old stone structures here and there. So we did a little photo shoot.

Oh, my boys. They are always here for me. Somedays I'm like, "This is it, these are my last dogs, they are SO needy!" They follow me all around the house when Matt isn't home. I mean GLUED to my leg. We have this BIG house and Blue literally leans on me as I am doing laundry. As I put the dishes away Petey tries to lay ON my feet. Blue scratches at the bathroom door when I shut it. Petey howls when I take the garbage out (like 2 minutes!) I find myself yelling at them "Give me some [elbow] ROOM!"

Then we have a great walk like this. And I think, I couldn't IMAGINE my life without dogs, especially these two.

They are my angels, always here for love and adventure- what ever I come up with, they are always ready! I can't wait to have them in New York City with me!

They are always there to take the loneliness away. Just when I need it too!

That's mamma's boys.

The Beginning of My Summer

2009-05-18T22:28:00.006-04:00

Today is the day before my classes begin at NYU for the summer. I went into the city today to stake out my classrooms so I know where they are. I also found a computer lab and used it just so I know how. It was a GREAT computer lab- filled with mac's loaded with everything I could want- InDesign, Photoshop.... and they were hooked up to REAL printers! And there were scanners too! I checked out the student center too, it was reallly nice with couches and loungey areas for hanging out and relaxing between classes.

I did this video for my mom. I didn't realize it at the time how poorly the quality came out. It is my first video so bear with me. Also this was the only song I could get to work in the right format, so sorry it's kinda cheesy!

It feels amazing to be hanging out in NYC. Greenwich Village where NYU is feels...special. I don't know how to explain it, and the video and pictures don't even do it justice. Have you ever had that feeling like all is right and you are totally meant to be in that moment in that very place? That's what it feels like to me for some reason. I don't know why, and there isn't a single thing I can say is why I love it there. I just do. As I'm there I wish I could capture a picture or video that conveys the feeling, but I'm not that good. So here is my first attempt...

P.S.

Some weird people I saw today in the City:

I was on the R train headed back to the bus depot, two guys in stylish suits and a blonde girl with quirky dark glasses got on. I thought one of the guys looked like a movie star. He was very handsome and striking, and his suit was really cool with snaps and little details. They chatted and laughed the whole ride. As the train was coming to 34th street stop they all three stood up waiting for the doors to open. The handsome guy was standing in front of me and he shoved his finger up his nose to pick it. Not like in a "I don't think anyone is looking, quick flick" kinda way, but a full on nose dig with a wrist twist to it! Hilarious. It made me giggle out loud.

I was walking in the transfer area of the port authority bus station and this really tall blonde girl bumped into me as she passed me. I swear she was at least 6'4"- she was wearing a short black lacy miniskirt. The skirt was so short and she was so tall that the hem was the same height as my elbow. And she had on bright blue (full) panties which you could clearly see through the lacy skirt.

Another guy in the port authority terminal was walking in front of me and I thought at first glance his was on a blue tooth or something. But no, he was just talking away to himself, complete with a face twitch and hand gestures.

Gotta love the subway.

Rain

2009-05-04T17:37:00.002-04:00

My favorite weather site www.wunderground.com is calling for rain ALL week. All week as in today through Friday at 50-70% chance each day. Seems fitting for final's week eh? I got a good nights sleep last night with the rain and all. I also had a nice relaxing weekend- Matt & I slept in then went to see the moviest the Soloist and Earth. We liked them both, but are glad we only paid to see The Soloist (wink, wink). Anyhow, today I'm super tired, I guess because of the rain and because I know it's finals. Luckily my schedule worked out great with two finals last week and two this week, plus two papers this week.

I just wanted to say hi to everyone and say it was raining. Alot. The boys hate it, I have to FORCE, as in literally have to boot Petey out the door to go potty. Blue holds it until he is about to burst then he goes out as fast as he can, then running back on the return. Petey after being booted out the door usually makes 3 or 4 half hearted attempts to come back before he realizes that he better just get it over with. Going pee is a big deal in our house when it's been raining for hours straight!

Hot Summer Days....Already!

2009-04-28T18:49:00.002-04:00

This picture was from the first hot day in the PA heatwave that we have had this week. Saturday morning we left earlie to head to Elizabeth, PA (outside Pittsburgh) for Matt's cousins wedding. It was a lot of fun meeting all his family from his dad's side. We turned around and drove back on Sunday then he went to Charlotte for the week. The hot weather hasn't left yet.

It was 91 yesterday and I think it got there again today. Since we don't have central air the dogs and I have been miserable at home. The house is SO hot. I put the little window a/c unit in our room today. But I can't lift the big one for downstairs. The boys are panting and looking at me like DO SOMETHING! I feel bad for them!

Tomorrow it is supposed to rain and only get to 60. Sounds nice!

Buses and ipods

2009-04-22T15:59:00.002-04:00

It's been awhile since I've really given any updates here. And as always plans have changed. That's just what I do for some reason- make plans and change them. And then most likely change them again.

I have decided to commute to the city for the summer semester and probably most of the fall too. Luckily NYU has great night classes that only meet once a week. I will be able to avoid the regular working hour traffic going to night classes. Also there is a bus service from here to there that works out to be less than if I drive+parking garage. I have found that it is pretty much a joke to find street parking during the week. Weekends, no problem, but weekdays forget it!

Tomorrow I'm doing a test run on the bus thing. I have to go into the city to meet with my advisers to get registered and my financial aid worked out. I used to ride the bus in Atlanta to my job in the country and I loved it. I would get a nice little cat nap in and catch up on my podcasts.....

Podcasts.....bad news. It might just be me, but my ipod just died. Again. Just like the last one. 15 months after purchase. Apple's warranty only lasts 12 months. The first time I thought it was me. But now I'm beginning to think it's Apple. It always happens right after I have decided I can't live without it. Then poof! It dies. This time I'm double bummed since it has now happened twice.

With the pending bus commute on the horizon and in my haze of grief I ran to Best Buy to promptly use the remaining gift cards we had. I am now the owner of a tiny little shuffle. It looks so pathetic compared to my shiny, flashy ipod touch that I thought I would never be able to fill up. I was surprised that my little one holds well over 100 songs, several podcasts and an audiobook. But it is strange to not have a screen. It kinda confuses me. I press the buttons and stare at it expecting to see something.

It is scary the way I've been programmed by Apple.

The Center of the Center of it All

2009-04-14T20:11:00.004-04:00

Yes, I did get accepted at New York University. They think I am wonderful and can't wait for me to be part of their amazing student body... at least that is what I read between the lines of the form letter! ;-)

I can't wait to get started there. I never dreamed in a million years I would be attending school in New York City. I'm such a small town girl at heart! But boy do I love the hum of the gritty city.

Next weekend I have to go take placement tests. Then the following week I will go register, get my ID and financial aid package. It's really unique because its so integrated into the city. The buildings for the classes are all over the place. There is no real campus area, it's all over. They have claimed Washington Square as the center of campus. You have to look for purple flags. It's like the Amazing Race kinda.

So yeah, I'm totally excited and ready to finish up this semester. I'm working hard to get A's in all my classes here in Atown. Speaking of.... I really gotta go get some more work done!

Blogs Explained

2009-04-02T21:24:00.005-04:00

This is a fun video about blogs In Plain English it explains why we have these fun things! It got me thinking... I haven't been very good about bringing you fresh news lately. I really have no excuse except for school and that I didn't think I had much to say these days. But really, I do...

I mean this is an exciting time for me and Matt right now! We are schemin' and plannin' and tryin' to figure out a way to live in Manhattan. We're busy! Personally I can barely function in life if I don't have something that I'm plannin' and schemin' on, but it's waaay more fun to do it with Matt on board too! So... the plan is:

1. Get accepted (me) into New York University's Real Estate undergrad program
2. Get massive amounts of financial aid (because Manhattan is a little pricey)
3. Find cheap as possible, but not in Halem-kinda neighborhood to live*more on this later*
4. Move me and dogs to there
5. Find a roommate for house in Allentown
6. Matt spends weekends in Manhatten with us, until December when lease is up in A-town....and....
7. He proves to his boss that he is such a good employee that he doesn't really need to be in the office in Trexlertown anyway! Besides he travels over half the month!

Wew! I know it seems like a lot. The crazy part is that there are like seventeen million steps between each one of those steps! Then there are all the little (or sometimes big) parameters that exist as well. I'll try to break each one out in the next week or so to get you all up to date!

Lifelong Learner Am I

2009-03-23T18:40:00.003-04:00

"I am not going to take a class with Lifelong Learners!" the big girl from my English class exclaimed to her friend as they sat and looked at classes offered next fall in the quiet computer lab.

I hate that there are labels such as 'adult learners' 'lifelong learners' - it discriminates against adults in college. I know the schools are trying to be nice with the thoughtful labels. But I can't help but wonder if there wasn't a label would the kids even notice? If there wasn't a label from the school what would the kids call us? The old people? I don't think they could even guess how old I or the other lifelong learners are really, or would really notice us as different. They seem to lack that concept- I've had girls guess that I'm 24...and they think that is old. Matt was guessed at 28 at Georgia Tech, just a little off!

There isn't much when I google "adult college students" or anything of the such I can dream up at the moment. There are a couple poorly written articles that give advice such as "Don't teach the kids your bad habits, like how to smoke."

I'm anxious about getting into NYU. I am hoping to hear in the next week or two. The McGhee School that I have applied for is all adult students, which they have labeled "Continuing Education Student." At what age are do you stop being able to be labeled just a 'college student'??

law and order

2009-03-19T23:31:00.002-04:00

This is the sunset over my current school's soccer field from the other night.

A picture of I'm not sure what street from last weekend...

And the Wall Street sign...

The steps of the court building where my favorite show ever is filmed....Law and Order.

Last Saturday Matt and I went into NYC so that I could attend an information session at NYU to learn more about thier Real Estate program. They also have an excellent law school, so if I get into the undergrad program that will be a nice set for grad school there. We are thinking it could all work out logistics wise...still a lot of planning to do and a lot of 'if this or that' still hanging out there.

It's been a pleasant week weather wise. I was feeling pretty couped up this last week and over spring break with all the studying I've been doing. I have three tests this week. Didn't feel 100% on any of them with so much on my mind. But I'm feeling some strong 85%'s maybe. The semester is half over now, thank goodness. One down and 5 more to go to finish my Bachelors.

I leave you with an incredibly adorable picture of my Petey!

Good News Alaskans!

2009-03-17T19:51:00.003-04:00

Today massive flocks of geese left here headed north! They are comin your way!!! I'm callin it...spring has sprung...

NYC Weekend

2009-03-11T19:00:00.010-04:00

I'm a little behind in posting these, I really have no excuse. We had SUCH a great time!
We bought cheap broadway tickets at South Street...

Lizzie called her mom to tell her about our GREAT tickets...

This is a bridge that crosses the Hudson. I don't know which one...

And the city... I really wanted to see Ground Zero, so we headed over and ended up getting the last two spots on a walking tour around the site....

It was good to see the site was very active.... lots to build...

I really like the approved plan with the Memorials being the footprints of the towers. It will be really beautiful when it's done.... The towers were twice as tall as the black building in this photo....

The glass building to the left in this photo is WTC 7, the first of the new buildings....

On a happier note, we had Broadway tickets at like half price.... here is the cuz and I in times square, thus the Red Faces.....

We had 6th row tickets to see No. 17 Cherry Tree Lane a.k.a. Practicly Perfect Mary Poppins....

The show was SUPERcalafragalistic fabULOUS! It was Broadway with some Vegas style elements. The story was modernized, but very well done. We really enjoyed it, we smiled through the whole thing! The theater was really cool too, very Disney like....

The next day our tour guide took us through Central Park.... This is the boat house lake.....

This is happy us in front of the (empty) fountain by the boat house lake.....

This was a nice, fancy area under a foot bridge by the fountain.... so much to discover in Central Park....

Seems like there would have been functions in here..... but it was really cold!

Ice rink in the Park.... we didn't ice skate... just enjoyed the view!

John Lennon Imagine 'Shrine'...Lizzie was sad... I smiled...

To continue on our tour we visited The Plaza's front Lobby....this huge arrangement is ALL REAL ROSES.....wow!

Then we went accross the street to FAO Swartz...I had to see the nursery where Baby Nubbins came from.... if you have 30 minutes this is one of the funniest stories I've ever heard.... CLICK HERE and then you can skip ahead to Babies Buying Babies (act III)....HILARIOUS! It will explain why I had to see the nurses and the nursery in this crazy toy store!

It's creepy isn't it? This one even kinda looks like lizzie?? ... weird...

lego land had Harry Potter made out of legos....again, wow.

This crazy guy was outside the Rockefeller Plaza, where we were meeting Matt. His little dog had yellow and purple hair, poor thing. And he had glued extra, multi colored feathers on the bird on his shoulder. i love new york.....

When Matt showed up we went to the Top of the Rock....

Tourist pictures....

Look! We're so high up you can see the curve of the earth....almost....

Me, our tour guide, and the cuz....

Silly Girls....

Matt and I could see the Empire State Building.....cool!

That night, Matt and I had tickets to Radio City Music Hall to see David Byrne..... I love this picture, we weren't even drinking!

Oh, one more Top of the Rock picture....I don't know why we are making these faces!

David Bryne and cast wore tu-tus for the finale!

It was an amazing weekend, finally going all these places I've seen on tv and in movies my whole life. We were finally there!

We had such a great time and we decided we want to live there. So now we're working on that!

Busy Doing Nothing Just Working the Whole Day Through

2009-03-04T18:02:00.005-05:00

I can't believe it's been so long between posts since I've been here in the northeast. I know I've been making it out to be all boring and quiet....and it is a little boring and a lot quiet! But it's also been busy too. Between school and adapting to the new lifestyle and exploring the area, I think we have only spent like 3 weekends at home doing 'nothing'. I've also been studying a lot more than I thought I would be. I have this crazy drive to get straight 'A's- nothing like a little internal pressure to prove something to myself.

Anyhow, yes it's been busy.

We saw Jewel a few weeks ago in Lancaster, PA- it was a super wonderful great solo show. There was a huge snowstorm that night too, but we braved it anyways. It was about an hour's drive each way. The theater actually turned out to be really nice. I'm been loving her blog at www.jeweljk.com and I am looking forward to her and Ty on Dancing with the Stars- I hope she rocks it and Ty doesn't embarrass himself!

I spent my first superbowl with crazy Steelers fans in a town called Pheonixville outside of Philly. I was an idiot and wore a pink shirt and khakis- everyone else was in Steelers gear.

Meanwhile, Matt has been in and outta town. He got a new project in South Carolina, so he will be going from here to there and to Illinois too.

Another favorite singer-songwriter Martin Sexton was in NYC on Valentines Day. That also turned out to be a wonderful fabulous show. It was at the Town Hall Theater which had that old time feel to it. He closed with America the Beautiful without a mic, just used the built in acoustics of the old Hall. It was also Fashion Week so we saw the white tents in Bryant Park. That was cool.

The cuz came to visit the last couple weeks. We did a supercalifragilistic trip to NYC for the weekend and stayed with a friend of hers. More to come on that soon...I've got pictures for that one!

I've also have begun the Tour de France excitement after the Tour of California brought back the boys into my life. I've become obsessed with following Lance on twitter. http://twitter.com/lancearmstrong It's a great way to kill time and follow my beau.

The weather has been up and down, warm and cold, to super cold. Snow then rain, ice then sunshine.

I have a test tonight, then an assignment due on Friday then it's SPRING BREAK. And we have a few things planned for the time off.

Honestly, I think we are having a lot of fun living here.

A Poem

2009-02-12T16:59:00.002-05:00

Failing and Flying
by Jack Gilbert

Everyone forgets that Icarus also flew.
It's the same when love comes to an end,
or the marriage fails and people say
they knew it was a mistake, that everybody
said it would never work. That she was
old enough to know better. But anything
worth doing is worth doing badly.
Like being there by that summer ocean
on the other side of the island while
love was fading out of her, the stars
burning so extravagantly those nights that
anyone could tell you they would never last.
Every morning she was asleep in my bed
like a visitation, the gentleness in her
like antelope standing in the dawn mist.
Each afternoon I watched her coming back
through the hot stony field after swimming,
the sea light behind her and the huge sky
on the other side of that. Listened to her
while we ate lunch. How can they say
the marriage failed? Like the people who
came back from Provence (when it was Provence)
and said it was pretty but the food was greasy.
I believe Icarus was not failing as he fell,
but just coming to the end of his triumph.

The assignment was as a group, develop an interpretation of the poem.

The blond girl talks about tanning in tanning beds everyday with her friends in class. She slides her feet when she walks as though she could care less and doesn't have the energy to pick them up. She always wears a pink tee shirt with rhinestones and talks in a nasally voice which I think comes from her terrible posture.

The black girl has come to class crying on two occasions. She sits in the back of the classroom, alone and sobs. No one asks or says anything to her. I tried to smile once. She put her head down. Today her hair is a mess and her eyes are distant as though she isn't listening to a thing. Or perhaps she is hung over? Or still drunk or drugged?

Anyways, this is my group I'm assigned to.

We pull our desks to a little circle. We have had 10 minutes to read and think and write to ourselves about the poem. I ask them for their first impressions. They don't say anything as I look back and forth between them. Nothing? I ask.

"Well, I didn't get it. like what is Icarus? After that none of it made sense." the black girl said and leaned back in her chair with a sigh. The blond girl shrugged and also leaned back.

I took a deep breathe and with my laryngitis voice asked them if they had ever been a relationship that had failed, or had lost a loved one. No response. I told them I thought the poet was trying to explain how there is something good, wonderful perhaps, that comes from knowing, loving and losing someone. That there are moments that are to be absolutely cherished and loved just for happening, no matter how it all ends. Maybe the poet meant that he learned things from that failed relationship that he nows sees as really good things. Good things that wouldn't of happened unless he was in that (failed) relationship and he's glad about that.

The black girl looked away at the wall.

The blond girl perked up and said "Yes, it's just like my relationship now. I'm in a long distance relationship and we always talk about how this is making us stronger even though it totally sucks!"

The other girl said she thought maybe it was about his hope for his next marriage. At least it was a start...

The black girl said she would do the writing. The blond girl will talk in front of the class to explain our interpretation since I can't. I would be the coordinator between the two tasks.

We then went through the poem line by line to examine the details and the language choosen. Good times. Tomorrow we give our talk to the class.

I really loved this poem.

Let's Talk....

2009-02-10T19:58:00.002-05:00

Not! It seems that a head cold can turn into laryngitis if your unlucky. I have completely and totally lost my voice. Yesterday I could whisper and squeak. Today I can barely whisper and my squeaks come out more like a low honk. I am reduced to relying on email, text messaging and writing notes. I feel helpless and frustrated.

Some days I swear I don't talk to anyone, or so I thought. Being without a voice to talk has made me realize that I talk to everyone! Just sitting next to a person is like torture to me now, since I think of things that I would normally say, but don't because I sound like a sick canadian goose honking at them. At the store today I didn't have my club card saver thing, I shook my head no when the cashier asked for mine. The man behind me handed her his for me to use, I tried to whisper 'thank you' and it came out as "aaaaaHONKu". I think my smile and congested sounded giggle which sounds more like a hiss caught them both off guard. The cashier looked taken aback. I paid and got outta there!

Last night in History class I had questions during the lecture and couldn't ask them out loud. I wrote them on paper and passed them to a guy sitting in front of me.

I wrote:

I lost my voice, can you ask this for me?

I felt like a 4th grader tapping him on the shoulder and giving him the paper note. The professor saw it and raised an eyebrow. The guy raised his hand and read my note to the class. I turned bright red and mouthed 'thank you'

The funny part about being a sudden mute is that it is really only funny to me. No one else seems amused by it like I am. I've also realized how much I talk to the dogs when I'm home alone with them. It is really hard to NOT try to talk. 3 weeks of this and I'm going to go craZY. Stay tuned...

DC Sunshine

2009-02-09T16:01:00.003-05:00

Matt has family in Fairfax near DC, and his grandma and sister were there visiting so

we headed down on Friday night for a quick weekend trip. It was really worth it since the cuz was there too! Yippee! I went into the city on the Metro on Saturday afternoon and met up with my cuz and her cuz, whom I hadn't met yet so it was fun! We walked around and did the sightseeing thing, kinda.

We weren't really sightseeing, more just hanging out and walking around on the beautiful day- it was soooo beautiful and warm at 53*! But in DC you can't NOT see sights...

Uh, hello! It IS Washington DC!

It was just what I needed. A city fix, a sunshine fix and a day with a best friend!
We walked until our feet pretty much gave out, which was perfect since we made it to the Lincoln Memorial at sunset. We sat on the steps and watched the light change.

Perfect.

Loss for Words

2009-01-26T18:34:00.004-05:00

Here I am, 32 years old and in college again. This what I get for not finishing up when I was younger. A slap in the face that I am not young-er anymore. I keep thinking of my mother, and my grandmother because I wonder does it make them feel older now that I realize that I am getting older? In Alaska the University is pretty diverse with a higher percentage of 'older' students, I never felt out of place. Classes felt like any work place with several generations and ethic backgrounds.

My day classes are filled with awkward right out of high school girls that couldn't get into a better school, or perhaps didn't try because the price tag is pretty scary. CCC is affordable on the sticker price and has been around for 100 years. None of them are very challenging in classes and seem to just nod along to the authority of the Professors. Although they do seem to be quick to raise their hands on the fill in the blank questions. I am trying to enjoy the contrast of the innocence in them. I read an article Vogue today about a Jersey girl that made it big in NYC, she said something that I keep thinking pins the Lehigh Valley just right. She said, "I was just like any other Jersey girl who grew up thinking I am getting out of here! But most move to the next town and think yes I did it." I am really trying to like this place, but it's like the more I try the less I do. OK, let's change the subject, enough of my whining!

Yippee....my classes are pretty easy. I have such a fresh perspective on them like History and Biology lab. History seems so relevant now as I've grown. I am learning about WWII and the who all the players were and how it all went down, interesting stuff really. It's the stuff movies are made of!

Biology lab is interesting too, last week we looked at banana cells and saw the nucleus, which looked like an egg sunny side up. The microscopes are better than I remember from 15 years ago in high school.

Tomorrow I get a free fitness assessment and enter into the campus healthy U challenge. It is like a campus Biggest Loser. First place is an Ipod shuffle or something. I'm totally going to win. I have a secret weapon- my personal trainer Matt!

I also joined the Radio Club to do a show. But they aren't even online or on the air yet, they just tape shows for no one to listen to. I am hoping that I can really help get them going there. I'll update you when there is a link to listen to.

My English class is pretty cool. Very insightful to see the younger minds learning and working- moreso than other classes. We are studying poetry, which is very interesting to tear it apart with a knowledgeable leader. The professor is cool, I'm guessing she isn't too much older than me. When the girls say things I feel like her and I kinda look at each other knowingly. It's fun, and funny.

I really want to post more, but I don't want to knock the school too much so I've just been keeping my mouth shut (or my fingers off the keyboard). Should I just lay low, or should I just put it out there? It's my experience right?

Noises in the Dark

2009-01-13T22:41:00.004-05:00

When we first got into the new house, it was right before Christmas. Our neighborhood is the campus of Muhlenberg College, so it was like a ghost town. There was NO ONE around, except us, the security guard that drives around, and one other neighbor that has a greyhound named Mattie that they also walk twice a day like us. The boys and I were getting used to the quiet at night, it was like the whole place was ours. Then the kids came back..... the boys still don't know what to think of all the activity....
I didn't go back to college until I was 23, and I had my own house, and my own little business.... I never did the wild college, dorm thing. Now I'm living right smack in the middle of it.

When we walk at night, there are kids everywhere walking in little groups laughing loudly, couples holding hands, shouting at each other or their friends dorm rooms as they walk by. They seem to be completely unaware that people with regular jobs also live in the neighborhood, and just next door to their friends window as they yell at 10:45 on a Tuesday night.

Tonight there was young couple making out down the street in their car, a girl walked by clacking her high heeled boots and talking into her cell phone, "Oh my god! That sounds sooooo yummmy! I'll be right there!" then she squealed, actually squealed and then ran away shouting into her phone, "Ten minutes! I'll be there in TEN MINUTES!"

The security guard waved at me as we waded through a group of 18 year olds that have been seasoned with a whole semester under their belt. They seemed to think the sidewalk was all theirs as they stared at me blankly when I said excuse me. I think the security guard was laughing at me having to navigate through the stupidness. It was so nice and quiet before.

The real crazy part?

I start classes next week at the college just a couple block away from this one. Crazy.

Phil. Adel. Phia.

2009-01-08T21:40:00.008-05:00

I'm not sure what that means, but I saw a sign that spelled it like that and I thought it was cute. I love that we live so close to amazing cities like this! There is so much more to go back and see and do. We did the quick tourist route and walked a few miles. It was chilly, sunny and WINDY! We started at the Visitors Center, next to the President's House.

We saw the U.S. Mint...that's where they make money...The Mint is right next to where Benjamin Franklin and his wife are buried...

Then the actual Liberty Bell...crack and all.

Did you know they hid the Liberty Bell in Allentown during the war? They did. I'm told.

I really enjoyed Society Hill. What a fabUlous area. Everything is PERFECTLY preserved/restored. Everything is, down to the marble stairs, the working shutters on all the windows and the horse tie ups. Everything was old, but new looking. You can feel the history on the uneven sidewalks as you walk by the houses and buildings built in the 1700's...
It was a fun day. I look forward to exploring more of this city as well while we're here. As night fell, the traffic roared and the city sparkled...

Distracted

2009-01-04T12:28:00.003-05:00

We are still organizing and trying to get everything in place to feel settled. We had downsized so much in Atlanta to our little apartment. Now we are in this big house that has these weird colors that we are trying to make look 'put together'. Our little crappy apartment in Atlanta was easy because everything just fit, and it all went together because it didn't match, which matched the crappy apartment! Now for the first time we are putting thought into our furniture and accessories trying to create our 'look'. We like simple, clean, and modern, but mostly functionable and cheap. And since we have all this time on our hands and we are both perfectionists, we have been determined to make it all work. The house came with this SUPER red couch that we are using. We don't really want to buy a new couch because of the required commitment and the expense so we are trying to make the red work, but it just really isn't. It completely clashes with our black and tan print rug... so we have been shopping like crazy people, looking for either the 'perfect' rug that will tie it all together, or a couch we really love. Then there is all the little stuff we've been shopping for; hooks for the bathroom, runners for upstairs because the whole house is hardwoods, bookshelves for all our books, organizers for DVDs (even though we don't have a tv), lamps for every room in the house since it has such little light....just little stuff like that. IKEA is an hour away so it's a day trip, and there are only 2 Wal-marts here that are 20 miles apart and seem to carry so LITTLE. We keep saying after we get these last few things on our list(s) then we won't shop or drive again for the rest of the year!

Matt starts work on the 12th, next Monday. The campus is about 5 miles away so he will run or bike to work each day. They have a gym there where he can shower and change. So he'll be getting a double workout and getting in great shape! We are starting a workout routine at home where he will do it with me kinda like a personal trainer/someone-to-do-it-with-me to get me going. We (Matt) have a 90 day start up plan, and then the training schedule to get us (me) to November for the New York City Marathon. Our new place has a big basement which he has set up to be our own personal gym. It's pretty cool!

Tomorrow begins my quest to register for school for the spring semester to begin to finish my BA in English. We live across the street from Muhlenberg College, an evangelical Lutheran school, not that that matters because they haven't accepted me because I can't get a copy of my high school transcripts from Alaska (long story there). But they aren't really where I want to go anyway. Cedar Crest is an all-girls college, crazy I know, all the schools here date back to the 1800's...anyways they are less than a mile from the house and there is a park that connects the two (practically). They HAVE accepted me in lieu of my not having high school transcripts. So I am headed there tomorrow to register for spring classes. But their English program is not the ideal program, it is primarily creative writing focused for publication and journalism. I am looking for a prelaw English program. Luckily we are in the college valley, and Lehigh University is right over the hill, about 10 miles away (if that). They have a great Social Justice English program, but they aren't accepting anymore applications for the spring semester because they had such a large freshmen incoming class fall 2008. I will bide my time at Cedar Crest until I get accepted at Lehigh for now. Moral of that long winded story is.... my mind has not settled down here yet and I'm still almost in a daze that I'm living here. With school on my mind I have been distant I know... I'll get back to writing regularly soon. On the bright side it has been clear sidewalks, good cold weather and the boys and I have been walking daily- and running a little. I haven't taken many pictures since I've been here other than what I've already posted. I will try to get some shots here soon. I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday and a great New Year!!

Christmas Day in New York City

2008-12-26T14:05:00.004-05:00

IF THE PICTURE SLIDE SHOW ISN'T WORKING...CLICK ON *View All Images BUTTON TO SEE THE PICTURES.

This was our Christmas Day spent in the city.

It was SOOO crowded with tourists doing the same thing as us!

It was 1 hour 45 minute drive.

$40 parking for 4 hours.

$8 to drive through the Lincoln Tunnel.

$10 in toll fees.

$70 dinner in Times Square at Brewhouse.

Priceless to see the tree and be in New York City for the first time ever!

I can't wait to go back and explore more of the City!

Saks Fifth Ave NYC 2008 Christmas Show from amie wagner on Vimeo.

We're Here!!!

2008-12-23T16:47:00.005-05:00

We made it last week, it was a loooong drive and we only had one tire incident. I've been so preoccupied with the entire move and the drive, and the new town. Not to mention finding a new house in a town I've never even visited- it's been pretty busy in our lives lately. I still don't know which way is north, but we are in a house that we rented that I really like a lot. It has been a long couple of weeks, I feel like I have been isolated form the Internet and my blog world! I miss you guys! We are still busy getting settled in, but I wanted to say hi and show a few pics of where we are.... sorry they are in random order, I feel guilty when I'm not unpacking so I'm being really quick here! Petey was in the lap of luxury in our MicroTel room where we stayed the first week. They both loved being able to be on the bed all the time. We had maid service which was nice, but the room was SO TINY (that's why it's the MICROtel) that we always made them get on the bed just so we could squeeze around!

This is pretty much it for the room, what you see here is what you get. Oh, and the little bathroom. Not fancy, but super cheap at $49.95 a night and $25 (total for the stay) for the dogs. They said we had just missed the dog show by one day when we checked in. They said every room had a dog in it!

I hated the room, but it worked, and luckily it had this great field/emtpy lot behind it which was great for potty time and general expoloring for the boys.

We looked at a bunch of places when we first got here trying to find something to rent that:

1. allowed dogs

2. had a yard

3. had a basement for Matt's rock n'roll band

4. had a kitchen with a dishwasher and appliances that worked

5. had room for guests to stay with us

6. was close to a school for me

7. was close to Matt's work

Really, is that too much to ask?? We got everything but the yard and the rock n'roll band is still a little ify. The neighbors have babies, but the parents seem really cool. My fingers are crossed that the dad is a wannabe rocker that plays the guitar or something!

This is the great park that is right down the street from our place! It's only about a 1/4 mile from our front door. It is really pretty and I am told it has a lot of activity in the warmer months...

It really is as quiet here as this picture looks!

The time has come...

2008-12-10T20:05:00.003-05:00

My last day of work was Monday. It was bittersweet to leave. I really like working, especially that type of work where I get to be creative. Anyhow, it's on to the next phase of my life. We leave Atlanta this Saturday morning, also Matt's birthday. Planning to spend the night in DC and then head up to Allentown on Sunday. I will miss Atlanta, but am glad to go at the same time.

I will do a full update as we get a little more settled. Wish us luck!

Overheard in the Lunchroom

2008-12-03T13:23:00.003-05:00

People are funny about food. I never noticed in Alaska many people being 'picky' except a good friend from Oakland, but she was from California so we always let it slide. A couple weeks ago I was trying to pass out some goodies that I made, but had few takers, everyone was 'being good' before the holiday season officially began. I think it was because they were homemade goodies. I've seen these same people devour plates of unknown pastries and cookies from the local lunch delivery places. People couldn't believe I made them myself, 'you cook?!' they would ask with a shocked look on their face. One co-worker said, 'oh you should talk to Jill, she cooks too!' and I realized that 'cooking' is a hobby to most people. I thought it was something everyone did, maybe not well, but everyone has to eat and feed their families right? When did this become a hobby?

A few ladies were sitting in the lunchroom while I read the newspaper and warmed up my microwavable store bought lunch of the day. I'm on an eat-everything-left-in-the-fridge/freezer diet right now before we move next week. Anyways, I overheard them talking about cooking. Specifically, why would one cook? One of the ladies said she tried a recipe for Chicken Parmesan out on her husband that she got from another coworker, she was bored and thought she'd cook on Sunday. Apparently he loved it! He talked about it all the next day, she complained. She thought he was crazy, it was just olive oil, chicken, cheese and bread crumbs- what's so great about that she asked her nodding friends.

One of the nodding ladies replied, 'you know what I would love to learn to cook? You know at Olive Garden that shrimp scampi? Oooh, I love it! If I had the recipe to make that exactly like Olive Garden I'd make it all the time! It is sooo good, it's like lemony.'

What has happened to people? No wonder we are all fat. We have no idea what we're eating or feeding our families. Worse yet, people seem to really like it that way.

In the past I have bought myself frozen 'simply steamed' veggie mixes to keep in the freezer at work as my just-in-case lunches. They aren't bad, although I find some of the 'sauces' somewhat unidentifiable in taste, but I try to do fresh whenever I can, so I feel like I really give in with these. But they are easy in a crunch, they are veggies and not the vending machine. They never fill me up though, but that isn't my point. My point is, every time I warm these packages up and put them in a bowl, people comment "oooh, that looks so good!" stuff like that. I always think - this? not really.

But yet, they think that man is crazy because he thought that Olive oil, chicken, cheese and bread crumbs was soooo good when his wife made it.

I must be missing something here.

Thanksgiving Lessons Learned 2008

2008-12-02T11:05:00.004-05:00

I am still so proud of my meal that I made for Thanksgiving this year and just can't stop thinking about it. Apparently other cooking bloggers are out there thinking the same thing. Ree's recipes and inspiration was a big help this year and I wanted to remind myself what went right and wrong this year so next year is even better. Maybe next year we'll have company too so my giant meal isn't so ridiculous for just the two of us.

1. I bought a brined turkey from Trader Joe's. It was brined in salt water. Then I re-brined it even better in Whole Foods' brine. The bird turned out fantastic, but the gravy was WAY salty! Otherwise it was perfect consistency. Next year, go with a bare bird and make my own brine, try with PW's recipe.

2. Make the carrots and onions the day before. I think they are better the next day after the flavors marry up. Need to work on that one too, they never look like the picture. I think if I make them ahead and then reheat in the oven they will get that baked look.

3. Stuffing was PERFECT, don't change a thing!

4. Pumpkin cake was good, I messed up the frosting, but all in all it wasn't festive enough. That one is good for any day cake. Need to come up with something more festive..... will have to work on that.

5. Also the green bean dairy free casserole turned out better the next day. Solution make 2 days before, then reheat with fresh crackers and butter. Not sure how to keep Matt out of this for 2 whole days. Will have to come up with a security plan. He can't sleep through the night usually without needing food. So he rummages the fridge bleary eyed in the middle of the night which is hard to call anything "SAFE" during those times.

6. I really missed the mashed potatoes. Not sure if I want to give in.... no plan of attack here yet.

7. Give in and conquer homemade rolls. This year I did the store bought Hawaiian rolls, yum. But would be so much better if homemade. Goal for 2009- conquer this one.

8. Night before 4 hours of prep time was WORTH it! Matt helped chop carrots and stuff. All that prep work was a life saver and made Thursday morning cooking FUN! Will always prep, could of started a few days out too.

9. Need to start collecting better serving dishes and utensils, mine are ummm lacking! Also I need more glass mixing bowls. I washed my ONE bowl 9 times to get this meal prepared!

10. Next year....I want to go to the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade on Thursday morning. My plan? Dinner on Wednesday! Yummy (EASY) leftovers after the Parade outing on Thursday! Which means I can start prep work on Sunday before.

Yes, that sounds grand.

Happy Holidays from the ATL- Madonna, Jewel and Turkey

2008-11-28T19:03:00.008-05:00

Wow! I have some catching up to do! So here is a quick rundown:

I finally turned in my notice at work, last day is Dec 8th. YIPPEE!!!

Last weekend we met up with friends Eric, Missy and the cuz to do Friday nights Imax and Martinis at Fernbank. A super fun way to enjoy Friday night with friends in the city.The cuz was super wonderful and gratiously invited me to Madonna at Phillips Arena, where her parents and her had FABULOUS seats! It was a life to-do checked off- see Madonna live. She looked amazing by the way. I felt just like when I was 11 watching her on MTV.... I SO WANT TO BE MADONNA!!!

But I'm not Madonna, I'm me and luckily my life is pretty fab too! Although Madge totally inspired me to start working at making the best of my body by the time I'm 50 too! I So wanna be her!

Matt ran in the Atlanta Marathon on Thanksgiving morning. He did the half (13.1 miles) in 1 hour 35 minutes which is a personal best for him. He seemed to feel really great afterwards. He helped me put the finishing touches on the best holiday dinner I've ever cooked. See, here he is helping....

Thanks to P-Dub for the 'why and how to brine a turkey' post, which I did and cooked my BEST BIRD to date! And I made to MOST amazing Dressing ever - her recipe too...

After a fabulous dinner and quick walk with the boys, we went to the Macy's Tree Lighting Celebration at Lenox Mall and saw....JEWEL!

It was pretty cool, totally free too. [by the way, Jewel is selling her newest CD for ONE DOLLAR over at her site for the month of December to give back and all] It was a whole tv production which I (nor Matt) had ever been too. They told us stuff like 'ok when we're live lots of smiles and noise people!' It kinda sucked that Jewel was singing to a backing track. But she sang a few holiday songs, and I just loved seeing her and hearing her voice. And I love Christmas songs.

To be honest, I loved the whole hoopla of the event. The singing, the stage, the cameras, the TREE.... everyone let white balloons go when the tree was lit and the fireworks started...I teared up a little. I'm such a sucker for holidays. I love the entire season! I had to get myself together so Matt didn't see me all silly over it all. But it was REALLY cool.....I can't wait to see that Big Tree in NYC, I'm totally going to cry over that one! Traditions, that's all I can say, traditions. I love em at the holiday season time!

Matt took all these pictures by the way. He took a zillion just to entertain himself. He isn't much of a holiday fan, but he sure is good with a camera!

For Lizzie and Other Holiday Parties

2008-11-17T21:12:00.004-05:00

These are great for parties if you don't want to spend a lot of time gettin all fancy, but want to have a hit at the party! Guaranteed compliments I'm tellin ya!

I don't measure much so I'm guessing on the measurements. Apologies ahead of time!

Here are a couple of my tried and true (almost no-cook/bake) favorites:

"S'mores Bars"

-Box of Golden Graham Cereal (or 3/4 bag of generic brand) **divide out about a cup of the crumbs at the end of the bag and crush to crumbs
-Jar of Marshmallow stuff (easier than marshmallows)
-1/2 stick of butter
-bag of semi-sweet chocolate chips (divide 1/2 & 1/2 of bag)

Prepare cake pan or easy disposable pan (as shown to the left) with butter.

Spray doesn't really work, butter is best. Then put crumbs on bottom of the pan, this makes it easy to lift them out, otherwise it can be gooey (but really yummy!)

Keep everything close at hand because once you turn on the stove it all happens fast!

Melt butter and Marshmallow stuff in a BIG pot on stove at LOW heat. Be careful to not burn it, stir A LOT and DON'T leave it unattended. Should only take a couple minutes.

When it is liquidy, add cereal and stir with big spoon as much as you can. Add chocolate chips here, they will melt as you stir.

Quickly scoop into the prepared buttered pan and press down. I use the bottom of a coffee cup to really compress them down.

Melt remaining chocolate chips. I like the microwave with a little whip cream/cool whip or vegetable oil to thin it out. 1 minute on 70%. Stir. 30 seconds at 50%. Stir. Repeat until runny and hot.

Pour into plastic bag. I put the bag into a cup kinda inside out, so that you can just pour the hot melted chocolate in. Nip the corner of the bag and zig zag over the bars.

Peanut Butter Candy Cookie Bars

-Roll of Premade Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough
-1/2 Bag of Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips
-A couple bags of M&Ms
-Sprinkles if you like
-1/2 cup crunchy peanut butter
-1 cup powdered sugar
-Couple splashes to tablespoons of Milk

Heat oven to 350*

Brake up cookie dough in UNGREASED cake pan. Brake into pieces and press together to form the bottom 'crust' of this unforgettable treat. Sometimes I use my meat tenderizer to push it around or just my fingers to do this. It takes a few minutes to push it all around, as it ends up kinda thin but it rises as it bakes.

Bake 15 minutes, let cool at least 30 minutes.

Beat peanut butter and powdered sugar on low in a bowl. Add milk and sugar to consistency of frosting and to taste. You want it sweet, but peanut buttery. Spread on COOLED cookie crust in same pan. Let sit.

Melt chocolate chips in microwave (or however you like). This is really good with a little (about 2 tbsp) whip cream/cool whip to add texture, but it's not necessary. 1 minute on 70%. Stir. 30 seconds at 50%. Stir. Repeat until runny and hot. Pour onto the creation. Spread CAREFULLY to not stir into the peanut butter spread. The chocolate should be runny enough that you can tilt the pan to help spread it out to the edges.

Sprinkle toppings as you like.

Let set up in the fridge for about an hour before cutting 6x6 bars. Store in fridge. YUM!
Eat up those compliments! Cheers!

Images like these

2008-11-07T14:22:00.003-05:00

I found these pictures on flickr from this guy named James Duckworth They were too beautiful to not share.

This was another random pic I found, but not his.

I am trying to gather pictures to remind me of what I love about Atlanta.

Election Night

2008-11-05T10:56:00.003-05:00

What a long day yesterday was. I thought about voting early, but I always thought it would take the fun out of voting the day of and all the fanfare that goes along with that. I also wanted to wait til the last minute because as a registered Republican I was undecided, whole heartedly. Of course I haven't helped this election season by faithfully listening to NPR in the mornings, and then Rush in the afternoons to get both perspectives I told myself.

I didn't warm up to either of the candidates, their vice pres choices didn't help either. Everyone around me seemed so decided and sure. I made lists and devoured both of the candidates websites. In the mornings I would believe I knew decisively whom I would vote for and by my commute home I would have changed my mind. It consumed my thoughts.

I planned on arriving at my polling destination at 6:45 am and I really did think I would be of the first in line and be at the office by 8 am at the latest. The streets were empty and the sun was coming up. I was like, 'cool there is no one out this time of morning!" I turned the corner to the Elementary School block and BAM! A line of people stretched around the school and around the block. "Oh man!" I thought, "You gotta be kidding me!"

The line seemed orderly and the poll workers were checking IDs for the voting certification in the line right outside the door. People waited with books, coffee and chairs. Children played on the playground. I listened to music on my Ipod and cursed myself for not wearing my walking shoes, but I really didn't think I'd be there that long. I watched the same two boys on the only two swings, swinging for hours. When I left after voting at 9:50 am they were still on the swings.

The poll workers were incredibly slow, but seemed to have the crowd under control as their first priority. I felt like the line was being treated like a rowdy 3rd grade class lineup, but no one seemed to be overly excited at such early hours. I was completely irritated by the time I got to the polling booth, as there were only 2 or 3 being used at a time because they were so slow at the official check in on the 2 computers to hand out the voting cards. Hundreds of people were still in line outside.

I went to the table to get my I voted! sticker from the young man leaning back in his fold up chair. He said "Thank YOU for voting today! And have a Wonderful day with your FINE self!"

Last night we listened to the results on the radio via NPR. I had fallen asleep while Matt continued to work. I woke just as McCain was giving his concession speech. I thought it was gracious and of his best speeches. I fell in and out of sleep again afterwards. Until the fireworks started and Blue jolted off the bed to go investigate to the loud sounds outside our window. I thought it was a fluke at first and asked Matt "what is that noise?!" It was fireworks.

Obama's speech was inspiring. I listened curled up in Matt's arms half listening and half sleeping at almost midnight. Afterwards there was more fireworks and we went to bed. I joked, 'Wow, Petey totally called it."

Petey for Obamanation

2008-11-04T18:58:00.001-05:00

Happy Halloween

2008-11-03T12:43:00.007-05:00

Here we are at a countdown of less than 6 weeks now! We are both so excited! We made a list awhile back of everything we want to do in Atlanta before we leave so that we get the FULL ATL experience you know, no regrets and stuff. We really do love Atlanta and will miss it, but feel like we have really enjoyed all that it has to offer too. This weekend was no exception!

I took Friday off from work, using up 1 of my 3 vacation days left. Thursday night I did not want to cook and was craving Thai food. It was only 5:30 but Matt was eating in front of the fridge which is a sure sign he is on the verge of starving. We decided on a nice little corner Thai place called Surin in the Highlands. It was pleasant and had some funky electronic music while we watched the runners and walkers pass by the big sidewalk windows where we sat. I ordered tofu for the first time in my stir fry as I am trying to eat as little 'industrial' meat as possible. It wasn't bad, but it wasn't great either. I guess tofu will take a little more experimenting.

Friday I slept in and cleaned the house by morning light. It was really nice. I didn't have anything that I had to do. I took the dogs in the car and we went to WalMart and tried to come up with a Halloween costume to no avail. The Halloween section was CLEARED out! We were home by 3 and just hung out til Matt got home.

Matt and I were lounging around, ok lying around when our neighbor across the street knocked on the door. She was in a Halloween shirt and had a bat shaped hat on. She was super nice and was telling all the neighbors that she was having a Halloween party and was giving out her number in case they bothered anyone. Turned out she, and all the house mates go to Georgia Tech. We thought it would be fun so we decided to go over later on.

I made us dinner while the trick or treaters stopped by. They were all really cute and dressed up. We had a rush for 2 hours and then it was over. Turned out I got lucky and had just the right amount of candy to hand out with not many leftovers.

We dressed up for the party cross the street, we were very creative. I wore a safety vest, Matt's hard hat (I left mine at the office), and my workboots with jeans and little tee shirt. I was a "construction worker". Matt wore his work overalls and carried a sledgehammer. He was a "guy with a sledgehammer". I didn't really get it either, but oh well it was Halloween. We went over to the party, me with a glass of red wine in hand and Matt with a beer in his front pocket. We didn't really know anyone at the party, so we just kinda walked in and started talking to people. The first guys thought it was pretty ironic that I was drinking red wine as a "construction worker" and they asked Matt if he just got home from work and grabbed a beer. Turned out they were mostly grad students in transportation and urban planning so they got a kick out of our 'costumes'.

At 11 we headed out to go down the street to the highlight of our Halloween- our first ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW. It was super fun. We stood in line as tickets went on sale at 11:15, luckily it was warm enough to not need a jacket and was entertaining with all the costumes. We were marked as 'virgins' with bright red lipstick V's on our foreheads a red lipstick kisses on our cheeks from the 'security' guy wearing the bright red lipstick. Matt is so easy going, I love him. We were in the middle of Geekville, as they were really into the movie. I had never seen it so I didn't get it at first. Once in the theater there was more fiasco to go through. There were hosts that ran a raffle ticket giveaway of junk like lunchboxes and movie posters and "my little pony" ponies. Then they did a costume contest that took forever, a little guy dressed as Mighty Mouse won, it was really cute. Then some fishnet / lingerie clad ladies did a little lip syncing number without smiling. Finally, the movie started at like 1:30am! Yikes!
It was overwhelming when the movie started. People immediately started yelling at the screen! I did not know what was going on! I thought they yelled the lines of the movie, but apparently the audience yells smart ass remarks to the movie. Like every time the main character would introduce himself, they'd yell "ASSHOLE" and he's introduce his girlfriend (Susan Serandin) and they'd yell "SLUT!" After awhile I got used to it and it was funny. But the audience has a remark about EVERYTHING in the movie. In addition to the movie, there was a live cast. A live cast that actually ACTED OUT every SCENE as it was on the screen. That was a different way to watch a movie. Luckily they were pretty good too. There was so much going on every second, it totally kept us awake in the wee hours and made it a very unique experience. We got home at 4, but were really glad we went, it was pretty cool. Oh yeah, and what a weird movie!

Saturday night we were going to meet up with a girl I work with in the Highlands, but she didn't make it. We ended up out on our own. First we started at the famous Eddie's Attic in Decatur for dinner. Dar Williams was playing a sold out show, so we ate in the 'talking' bar area. They had the live music piped in and the tv showed the live show on the other side of the wall. Turned out Shaun Mullins was playing with her. Then he was hanging out between songs in the bar area where we were eating. That was pretty cool that we got to see him perform as a 'surprise' while we ate dinner. Another musician to check off the list. When we left we were like, "well, now we can leave Atlanta, we saw Shaun Mullins"

In the highlands we went to Limerics and saw some live Irish music. They are right, the more you drink the better they sound! But I didn't want to drink THAT much so we went down a few doors to Blind Willies and paid the outrageous cover charge. When I asked the door guy how much and he told me $10 each, I said "oh yeah, that's why I've never been here!" Turned out it was worth it. It was a really awesome blues band, The Shadows and a fabulous real blues singer named Sandra Lee. We ended up having a really great time!

Gotta love Atlanta!

It's the Holiday Season...in my mind anyways!

2008-10-29T09:51:00.005-04:00

I am so excited I can not EVEN focus on anything else. It is in the high 30's here today in Atlanta, I'm wearing a black turtleneck sweater and it totally feels like Christmas to me! I have got the holidays on my mind, holiday in New York that is! I can't believe that me- girl from Alaska- is moving - to *live* a short 95 miles from New York City! I know it's not like we're going to be living in the city, but still I never thought I'd visit, let alone live so close to it. I keep looking at google maps trying to get a lay of the land.

With Halloween this week, Thanksgiving around the corner I deemed it Holiday Music Season. I know it's a little early this year, usually I wait until the week of Thanksgiving, but it's feeling a little strange knowing that we won't be 'settled' for Christmas and will most likely be unpacking on New Years. Its sooo sweet bittersweet. I'm so excited, but am such a creature of habit that it is taking a lot of self discipline for the nerves not to take over. But did I mention how excited I am?!

I am dying to tell everyone at work -"I am going to spend Christmas Day and New Years Eve in New York City!" But I won't be turning my resignation in until Thanksgiving week, so for now I'm just pretending that nothing is going on in my life of excitement right now. I'm bobbing around with this stupid smile on my face today and all 'fa la la la la' like. I have my Holiday music online via pandora.com and am dreaming of the 'most wonderful time of the year' in the 'City that never sleeps!'

Ben Kweller at The Earl

2008-10-26T20:49:00.003-04:00

It was a hole in the wall bar, with a red back room. Really, it was red and really dark with a little stage. Matt and I have seen Ben three times now in Atlanta. This was our first time going to East Atlanta. It was really a cool area, super laid back and had a punk like vibe, but just easy going people. We ate at The Glenwood right on Flat Shoals. What a GREAT place> the food, the staff, the owner came over and introduced himself. They had a great beer list and are opening a full wine bar next door. I highly recommend The Glenwood. We will be going back before we leave Atlanta. The Earl was just around the corner, and it was raining lightly. We were SOO early so it was a very relaxed easy evening.

Matt remembered as we were walking in that it was his sister, Gwen's birthday. We stood in the tiny hallway and called her in Alaska. Happy Birthday to Gwen!!!

The show didn't start until after 9. The venues seem to be getting smaller?? But the fans were great and knew all the words and had a great time stompin to the music. It was a rockin sing along show.

Ben was great, the new band was super 'tight' as Matt says. It was raining, and finally, finally I got to meet Ben. I totally tricked him into this picture!

I told him it was our last show in Atlanta as we were moving to Philly. He said, 'aww, I'll be comin up there too" and he went to give me a hug. How sweet is that?! I totally took advantage and pointed to Matt, who had the camera ready. I almost feel bad- but isn't this a great picture?? We have matching hair!

What the....

2008-10-22T15:11:00.004-04:00

I have always been a do it yourself kinda girl. I have never, EVER had someone else pack for me. Well, other than Matt when I lost my job and had to move to a hundred year old house in the hood because I was broke. That time was different, I was having a hard time. I was VERY upset and didn't want to move. But I have never, EVER had strangers pack for me. I just found out that his company is paying for our entire move, which is GREAT! FABULOUS!

But.... they will only move what the movers pack for stupid liability reasons.

See I had a whole fantasy in my head, as usual. I went like this...

I love packing and moving! It means a new place and a chance to do some serious feng shui space clearing and really seeing what all I'm storing and not using. I was looking forward to the next couple weeks sorting and organizing of all my stuff. I had a plan, a written plan! I have been working on this plan for a couple weeks during my lunch breaks.

As I sorted our belongings I was going to pack my boxes with color coded labels with a full inventory list stored safely on my handy flash drive. I already have the spreadsheet set up via 'area' and box numbers.

The movers were going to show up precisely at 8:30 am on Friday, December 13th while Matt was taking his LAST final. They were going to be so thankful that all my boxes were ready to go. They were going to wrap and move the heavier, bulkier items. I was going to be happy about that. I was going to sit on the front porch sipping hot cocoa (its fantasies like this that I wish I drank coffee). I was going to make banana bread the night before to offer to the hulky, smiling men in my fantasy.

Hmph.

Instead apparently, I am expected to NOT pack, NOT organize nor color code anything. I'm supposed to just let precious organizing and sorting days pass by while I wait for strange men to come into my house on December 13th and randomly wrap (apparently movers are obsessed with unprinted newspaper I'm told) EVERYTHING and put it all into their own boxes. I'm supposed to sit back and "relax" while they empty my kitchen cabinets, closets and drawers. I bet they are day labor guys that get picked up that morning on the street corner next to the Citgo. They are going to smell and have dirty hands. I bet ya they will!

What am I going to do paint my nails and watch the polish dry? And how, HOW I ask you am I going to know where everything is? What box will have what? How am I going to sit and watch this happen?! How are these 'people' - these 'movers' going to know what kitchen stuff should be packed with what?! What am I going to do with all MY boxes that I've moved with three times?? I have carefully stored and preserved these boxes just for this move! Now what I am to just throw them away?!

I am trying to stay calm. I am realizing that moving brings out my control issues. I realize this must be a challenge from the universe...I mean an 'opportunity' to deal with this issue. Honestly I don't think I need to deal with it, I like being in control. Especially of my stuff. Why is that an issue?

I tried to break up with Matt. I told him to just leave me and my stuff here as I can't go through this. He can go and take the dogs and live a wonderful life without me. I will have his stuff ready in the middle of the floor for the movers to "pack". I'll just have to stay behind in Atlanta.

That didn't work.

He kinda yelled at me for the first time ever. He said I was being "F-ing Ridiculous!"

Hmph.

I told him I guess I'll just have to start drinking. Heavily.

Moving Hiatus

2008-10-15T15:15:00.002-04:00

We are down to about 8 weeks to the big M-Day! I made a list today of everything we have to do still and a timeline. The job is secure up there, but everything else logistically is still up in the air, but at the same time we've gotta start getting it together. With the holidays and Matt finishing school finals I fear it will sneak up and we won't be ready to skedaddle.

Point being, I'll most likely be sporadic at best on the blogsphere until the New Year as we get settled in. I'm sure the next couple months will be packing posts- does that sound entertaining or what?! Anyways, apologies ahead of time.

Although on second thought, maybe I'll do quick updates each day to kinda track the progress and the move. When I moved from Alaska to Atlanta it was around the same time of year and I was in a kind of fog during it all as it was SO emotional and demanding. I kinda wish I remembered more about those last days....maybe it would help me relax about this move!

We'll see how it goes, no promises!

Perfect Weekend Part II

2008-10-13T11:05:00.002-04:00

Last Sunday we continued our perfect weekend with sleeping in late and walking to the store for groceries and coffee. I then made us a great breakfast of eggs with green & orange peppers with spinach and they just so happened to turn out perfect. Which really is no skill just luck with my timing!

We spent the afternoon reading and working. Matt worked on his last lab book (ever!) which seemed to put him in a very good mood knowing that it was the last one he'll have to turn in! He is getting so close to graduation this December and yet he still amazes me that he is able to focus so intently on the classes at hand. He needs to get A's this last semester to finish with an 'A' average overall his time at Georgia Tech. He also found out he will be graduating with 'high honors' another pleasant surprise!

I took up some side work for myself, doing the same thing I do now, but remotely. It's challenging which I like, but of course it takes up my free time. Most of my free time these days are spent planning for the next 12 weeks.

I have applied to three schools in Pennsylvania and am waiting to hear if/where I'll get accepted. With the big move approaching Matt and I have a lot of planning, researching, sorting and packing to get done! Not to mention our regularly scheduled Atlanta life that we are keeping up. Speaking of....back to LAST Sunday....

We finished our perfect weekend with an early concert at Variety Playhouse in Little 5 Points with Joan Osborn. We caught an early dinner at Fritti's which Matt had never been and if you spend any time at all in Atlanta, people rave about Fritti Fritti and Sotto Sotto. It's a cute little Neapolitan pizza restaurant. The weather was perfect in the mid 70's and with a breeze and sunshine. The sun went down fast at 7:20 and we headed out to the show.

There wasn't a lot of traffic as is typical on show night at Variety, and we ended up walking in a sitting up front in the second row of seats. We commented on how cool it was that they had set up tables and chairs with candles in the front area where it is usually standing room only. Just then the show began promptly at 7:30 which we greatly appreciated being a Sunday night.

The opening act came out and greeted the about half full house of a mostly gray haired crowd and began. His name was Matt Morris and was very entertaining. He was from Colorado and had the hippie look with an R&B voice playing good ol' folk on his guitar. His songs were catchy and had fun lyrics. We enjoyed his set and his comfort on the stage and how he talked to the audience. I actually went out and bought his cd during the break which I have now done at the last two shows there. The opening acts at Variety have been a pleasant surprise of late!

Joan Osborn came out at about 8:30 wearing a dressy and classic, knee length lipstick red drapey dress with black strappy heels. Her hair is back to the blond, she looked really good. But honestly I couldn't care what she looked like or what she sang as her voice is so unique and lovely! She did a few old tunes from her first CD and then did most of the set off her new CD Pretty Little Things. Matt leaned over to me and said why didn't you tell me she had a new CD? I hadn't downloaded it but they have been playing the songs on knba, but I always assume her stuff is from past CD's - again, I would pay to hear her sing the ABC's!

I had brought my camera but forgot the memory card so no pictures :-( She didn't talk much to the audience, but did say that she would rather sing more to us than talk and said 'sorry' and then went into a great performance of "helpless" which rocked the house of old fogies!

The crowd sat through the whole show which was fine with me, but seemed to really enjoy the performance, as it was pure, raw and flawless. The energy was high from Joan and the audience although it was so relaxed at the same time. The whole show was a very unique vibe from beginning to end and highly enjoyable! She came out again and did a beautiful encore of "Midnight Train to Georgia" to finish us off. I loved it the crowd rushed the stage for the last song in an orderly and polite fashion and then clapped and whistled at the end, then turned and went home. It was such a grown up crowd I loved it! We were home by 10:30 that night, now that's a great Sunday!

Perfect Atlanta Weekend Part I

2008-10-05T12:47:00.006-04:00

The weather is Puuuuurfect right now! Sunny, highs in the low 80's and lows in the high 50's...I've been feeling pretty lucky livin here right now! It really is the best time of year!

This weekend were all about town with a variety of activities.

**friday night**
We went to see the just released new Bill Mahr movie Riligilous. It was Hilarious. If you are partial to a religion it is probably completely offensive, but the theater we were in people were laughing out loud! Of course we are in Atlanta midtown....

**saturday**
A month ago I was telling Matt maybe we should go to a Georgia Tech football game before we leave, I've never been to a football game in the south. It seems to be a religious like ritual here. So he surprised me with tickets to the GaTech vs. Duke game!

It was a great day as you can see and the view of the city from our seats was FANTASTIC!
I know NOTHING about football. I mean, for real, nothing. Matt kept trying to explain things to me like first downs, but it seemed to me it was ALWAYS first down. If the view wasn't so freakin fabulous I would of been BORED.
I was entertained by the crowd, the dads with the small kids decked out in the schools colors and the half time show!
I had never seen a marching band before! Fun!
I will upload the rest of the pics tonight. The cheerleaders were cool when Ga Tech scored! I LOVED the big giant GT flag!!! And the mascot was silly to watch. Now I've done it, don't think I'll need to again. Although I would like to go to a night game just to see the city lights...those pictures could be worth it!

The Common Sense Fix

2008-09-30T13:10:00.006-04:00

Thank goodness the Bail Out Plan didn't pass. I think our Representatives may have actually listened to Americans! Finally they heard us that we don't like the all or nothing Quick Fix 'plan'. Let's keep that momentum going!

I like Dave's plan, personally (although I skip Step 1):

The Common Sense Fix

Years of bad decisions and stupid mistakes have created an economic nightmare in this country, but $700 billion in new debt is not the answer. As a tax-paying American citizen, I will not support any congressperson who votes to implement such a policy. Instead, I submit the following three step Common Sense Plan.

I. INSURANCE

a. Insure the subprime bonds/mortgages with an underlying FHA-type insurance. Government-insured and backed loans would have an instant market all over the world, creating immediate and needed liquidity.

b. In order for a company to accept the government-backed insurance, they must do two things:

1. Rewrite any mortgage that is more than three months delinquent to a 6% fixed-rate mortgage.

a. Roll all back payments with no late fees or legal costs into the balance. This brings homeowners current and allows them a chance to keep their homes.

b. Cancel all prepayment penalties to encourage refinancing or the sale of the property to pay off the bad loan. In the event of foreclosure or short sale, the borrower will not be held liable for any deficit balance. FHA does this now, and that encourages mortgage companies to go the extra mile while working with the borrower—again limiting foreclosures and ruined lives.

2. Cancel ALL golden parachutes of EXISTING and FUTURE CEOs and executive team members as long as the company holds these government-insured bonds/mortgages. This keeps underperforming executives from being paid when they don’t do their jobs.

c. This backstop will cost less than $50 billion—a small fraction of the current proposal.

II. MARK TO MARKET

a. Remove mark to market accounting rules for two years on only subprime Tier III bonds/mortgages. This keeps companies from being forced to artificially mark down bonds/mortgages below the value of the underlying mortgages and real estate.

b. This move creates patience in the market and has an immediate stabilizing effect on failing and ailing banks—and it costs the taxpayer nothing.

III. CAPITAL GAINS TAX

a. Remove the capital gains tax completely. Investors will flood the real estate and stock market in search of tax-free profits, creating tremendous—and immediate—liquidity in the markets. Again, this costs the taxpayer nothing.

b. This move will be seen as a lightning rod politically because many will say it is helping the rich. The truth is the rich will benefit, but it will be their money that stimulates the economy. This will enable all Americans to have more stable jobs and retirement investments that go up instead of down.

This is not a time for envy, and it’s not a time for politics. It’s time for all of us, as Americans, to stand up, speak out, and fix this mess.

Myself, I am all for plans that don't spend our money on this problem. To me, buying out the bad debt seems to be a band-aid fix and doesn't fix the root of the problem: Big Banks Took Big Risk and It Went BAD.

I took the time today to send this to Georgia's senators, reps, and our presidential candidates. I hope that you will take the time too. I can't help but think they must NEED more ideas if all they could come up with is- BUY the bad debt that will fix it! I know, I'm disappointed too that 'they' aren't smarter than that....

Here is a link to find your senator(s)...and your reps - the rep site took several attempts to load up- I'd like to believe there is THAT MUCH traffic on this subject!

Also I think The Candidates should know how we feel:

Obama - I had to resend this three times when I hit submit it says error and can't find webpage.

McCain

Growing Pains

2008-09-29T11:49:00.003-04:00

I need to start taking better care of myself, of my body. I'm down and out right now due to a strained chest muscle. It's quite painful, I was fearful last Thursday that I was having a heart attack. The pain woke me up several times on Wednesday night all along my left side throughout the chest area. It hurt to breathe normally by the time the alarm went off in the morning. My left arm was tingling. I was sure at 31 that I must be having a mild heart attack. I actually felt nausea as I got up and got ready for work. After a couple days of telling myself I'm not having a heart attack I believe I strained it doing several things last week.

Monday I did my 'weights' routine, really just the resistance bands but focusing on my upper body. Tuesday night I did 15 pushups, a record for the last year. Wednesday night I washed the dogs. Then the pain started.

In addition it seems my body is aging, with aches and pains just showing up from little things. I have been on a quest to be more active, lose weight and get 'healthier' since the first of this year. I ride my bike almost 100 miles every week (except the last two), I've lost 25 pounds and I have cut out red meat and most processed foods as well as alcohol (for the most part).

(Jan. 2008 picture of me and Petey)

(Dec 2007 Christmas Party with Matt- this is my picture of "woah, I need to lose weight!)

(Me last month- Aug 2008 after losing 25#)

Next I believe I need to start focusing on stretching and toning (safely, which means in moderate progression). And eat more vegetables.I'm taking a break from bike commuting for a couple days to let this chest muscle recover properly.

Sex and Gasoline

2008-09-26T14:21:00.002-04:00

Every morning Matt and I wake up to the news on npr. Sometimes between me hitting the snooze we'll catch a story that intrigues and we'll lie there waking up slowly listening. This morning Matt was snoring and I was restless and didn't really listen. Then as I was leaving the house I realized that I thought I heard something about another bank closing...but no, I thought, today it can't get worse. Can it? I must of heard a recap of all the crashing.

At work I tune in via live stream online and sure enough another giant bites the dust. People were making a run at WaMu to pull out their deposits. The news makes me feel like I'm in the Twilight Zone these days. How bad is it I've been wondering. I don't rely on credit, so I'm not panicking, I don't have a mortage or do I plan to any time soon. I also don't have large savings stashed away, nor do I drive (much)- so how is this affecting me? As in ME, not you. :-) I am asking myself this question of lately and am not sure. I mean I still have my job....

My office announced this morning over the intercom system "For all of you that are worried about finding gas, the BS Station on Piedmont has gasoline today." I thought to myself - for real?!

The parking deck was relatively empty this morning at 8:30 my co-workers whispered. Around the corner from my desk I heard two more whispering that their children's daycare combined classes this morning because so few people showed up. I heard the words "eerie" and "spooky" today a lot. I thought to myself- for real people?!

I heard another npr story this morning that warned we all need to stock up our money like squirrels do with food for the winter. It's time to stock up! I thought to myself- FOR REAL?!

Good ol' knba back home brought it all together for me with this song. Gotta love the Alaska way of looking at things!

DEFCONOMY

2008-09-25T14:10:00.002-04:00

Everyone is talking about it. He talked about it 7 months ago, everyone thought he was crazy. Is it really happening?

Dave has a plan. It sounds like a good one, but I think it's too late.

Byrne and Eno

2008-09-21T19:03:00.002-04:00

Last Saturday night was our last Chastain concert with none other than the extraordinary David Byrne! Considering that he has not marketed his new album other than on his website we weren't sure what the crowd would be like. Turned out most people in our immediate area seemed to know the songs and were very enthusiastic fans! Being the end of the Chastain concert season here in Atlanta, patrons of this venue were ready to PARTY! Party they did too, please try to ignore the chick bent over behind our heads- she was getting something out of the giant cooler they brought.

Am I getting older now that I'm not the crazy chick up dancin like a fool and screamin through the whole show? These days I just want to sit back and enjoy the show. I still hoot and holler and have a great time. But it's really more about appreciating that I'm there seeing the artists, not just that OH MY GOD I'M AT A CONCERT!!!

We ended up moving seats, jumping ahead a few rows to get away from a crazy chick and her super freak tall boyfriend. From the very first song she was up dancing wildly- even through the slow songs she never changed her beat. It was definitely her own beat too! Matt leaned over to me at the second song- 'Is that how they were dancing at Chris' high school reunion?'

No, I replied, she is much worse!

**We have several shows coming up to complete our Atlanta Concert Experience:

Joan Osborne

Martin Sexton

Ben Kweller

Jason Mraz (maybe, tickets not purchased)

Also I'm planning on seeing my first musical - WICKED - at the Fox with the cuz....

Griffin House and Xavier Rudd

2008-09-21T18:51:00.009-04:00

Xavier Rudd on Wednesday at Variety Playhouse. I was very excited about this show because it was such a great venue for Xavier and I think he is amazing!Our last adventure to see the elusive Xavier turned in a really great show that we really enjoyed despite the craziness of the logistics. This show was right down the street at one of my favorite venues.

The show was scheduled for 8pm on a Wednesday night. As I have grown older and go to bed early during the week I always hold out my hope that the artist will be ontime and be considerate of it being a work night. Xavier I assume has never worked a really job and so does not have a concept of a 'work night'...his opening act was awesome though!

Griffin House was a breath of fresh air for an opener. The last half dozen shows I've seen had terrible, awful opening acts, Xavier's last opener was dreadfully bad. Matt and I weren't expecting much, but were completely impressed by Griffin House. He had a clean, smooth and interesting voice with catchy, smart and fresh songs mixed with sweet, romantic almost comedy like songs. He was very good with just him and the guitar and had a comfortable, relaxed stage presence which is something I really admire in a performer. He told personal stories that related his songs and made them more fun with the background. Like the story about his grandfather shooting this video with him and how his grandpa got to the set and was like, 'how is this going to take 3 days?'

I really like that when a performer is engaged with the audience and really performs FOR the people. We enjoyed him so much I went down after his set and bought a CD. I haven't purchased a real life CD in about a year in the digital download age! I didn't wait in the colossal long line to get it signed, but I was happy to have just been treated to the show and to have found new talent.

After another 45 minutes Xavier finally took the stage at 10:30pm. I hadn't downloaded the new album, as it didn't strike my fancy at first. He did several songs that really impressed me from it- Dark Shades of Blue and Edge of the Moon were familiar in the classic Rudd style, although lacked the digeroo sound that he is known for. The songs were all heavy on the slide guitar and drums. His drummer is really good, and makes the show. My disappointment (other than the lateness of the evening) was Rudd's lack of interaction with the audience. The place was almost sold out and although he thanked us numerous times, and bowed in gratitude I felt there wasn't much of a connection. It was very inpersonal I thought. It is like he just 'performs' and tries to pretend the audience isn't really there.

We were so tired as the 11 o'clock hour rolled by, we finally dodged out like old foggeys. We left as he did his 'flagship' Let Me Be. I hated leaving before it was over, but I also didn't feel that I was really missing anything. The show was pretty much the same as the Nashville show and as Matt pointed out alot of the new songs sound an awful lot like his old songs. There wasn't much variety. All in all, Xavier is a great show if you have not seen him before. However as a fan, I was disappointed in the lack of growth in his show. If Griffin House comes though town we definately will be catching that show! I think with his band that would be a lot of fun!

Trains, Planes and Automobiles

2008-09-17T12:04:00.003-04:00

I have been busy! Busy, busy and more busy! last week my parents were in town Sat-Tues, so I took Mon/Tues off from work to hang out with them. I showed them Atlanta and realized that a few days isn't nearly enough time to really see the city. I guess Atlanta is one of those places that grows on you over time. At first impression (or in a short visit) it seems like any other metro-city, but over time you get to know the nuances that make it a special place to live. Like any place it has it's cons too which are unfortunately all too apparent in a three day visit.

Anyhow, I went back to work Wed-Friday and it was grueling and crazy busy as usual.

Saturday morning I got up early and took the Amtrak to Birmingham to meet up with my parents over there. My dad Chris had his high school reunion there. I was just excited to go over to see them and spend a couple more days with them before they went back to Alaska. That is why I agreed to go to his reunion party on Saturday night with them. Matt decided to sit this one out and stay home and catch up on his homework. He is a smart guy! I went, it was an open bar, there was a band and lots of food.

It was good to see the parents and hang out. I can now speak from experience it is really weird to go to your dads high school reunion. Everyone seems strange and they probably aren't that weird in real life I have to believe. But since they hadn't got together since they were rebel rejects that attended an "alternative school" in Birmingham, Alabama in the mid 1970's they were ummm.... a little strange, and there was an open bar. Luckily Chris was by far the most normal one there and I can't help to wonder if he would have regressed more if I wasn't there. I think it was a bit awkward for us both to be honest. People would make that amazed and big eyed face when I would introduce myself as his daughter. You know that face like "Really?! Oh the stories I could tell you that would be SO inappropriate!" You know- that face!

We stayed up late that night talking about whatever until 3am in the backyard. I drove back with them to Atlanta in the morning and they caught an afternoon flight home to Anchorage. That made the trip totally worth it!

The train was pretty cool so I have to write a bit about it. Being in my not-driving-alone still phase to save the oil reserves for when we really need them- I was looking for options to get from Atlanta to Birmingham.

The Bus: Which reminds me I never posted much about my greyhound bus ride to meet Matt...anyhow lets just say I wasn't really looking forward to the bus again, especially since it made a 2.5 hour drive on the interstate into a 4.5 hour ride through small towns in Alabama. It was cheap though at only $34 one way, but the schedule wasn't that great, I'd arrive in B'ham after 1pm.
Shuttle Van: I see these around town all the time, apparently there are only a few of them though. They were from the Airport to Airport and $65 one way, with only 2 departures per day - one mid morning and one late on Saturdays.
By Air: Not really an option at a $300 ticket not to mention the craziness of going to Atlanta Hartsfield for a 20 minute flight.
By train: Amtrack- 4 hour ride, $30 one way. On the website it advertised luxurious dining and I would arrive at 11:45 in Birmingham.

I decided on the train, I've never been on a train other than the Alaska Railroad in the summer when it is filled with tourists headed to Denali Park. So I was excited to see how it all worked even though it was a long ride. Lets talk pros and cons:

Pros

$30- CHEAP!
Big roomy seats- like being in 1st class on an airplane, maybe even a little bigger
Seats reclined and had TONS of leg room- waaay more than on 1st class on an airplane
no security, just show up and get on
the aisles were super wide and easy to walk around
was really empty, not many people taking the train these days, I really don't know why?
each seat has thier own electrical outlets for laptops, charging phones, etc- sweet!
you can bring your own food and beverages
it was super quiet and roomy, very easy to sleep
the men that worked the train were SUPER DUPER nice! They seemed to just love being on the train and were friendly.

Cons

over zealous marketing- snack bar was SUPER lame food, not even close to ok, let alone luxurious- next time will bring own food as I had a fantasy of white linens and table service with a grand saturday morning breakfast. Instead I got a microwaved egg/cheese/ham biscuit that was hardly edible, so I got a small bag of pretzels too, and a good thing I did.
the windows weren't that big, I thought they would be more like the bus
the views weren't that great either as we passed through the backsides of little towns
it was slow because of the little towns

All in all I would take the train again, I think. It was great for the price hands down. I think I'd like to do Atlanta to New Orleans which is like 7 hours for $60 one way- but don't know if I could do Atlanta to NYC which is only $110 one way but 17 hours! I didn't see the sleeper cars, but I guess that might make it better. The train is the way to go if you have the time.

A Visitor

2008-09-03T21:09:00.002-04:00

We have a very large, sweet visitor staying with us this week....

She goes by Macho. Her dad is in Hawaii this week. It's me, her, three boys and six bikes in a studio apartment. Good thing we have a doggie door!

Big Step

2008-09-02T22:03:00.005-04:00

I feel I have outgrown this blog for writing about biking. I've decided to stretch out the subject of me and my bikes in a longer format. I will continue this blog about other happenings with me and other tidbits and dribble, but will spare you the bike talk and let that live and breathe in it's own space. I still have some layout work to do, but it's a start at least. If you have been a reader for bike content I hope you enjoy my fresh start. If you are friends and family or just interested in non-bike blogging I hope you stick around and enjoy the change.

Cheers!

Downers

2008-09-02T12:51:00.002-04:00

I cut out beef the first of this year. Other than a few burger relaspses it hasn't been missed. Seeing this video is a reminder of why it is the right thing to not eat beef. I will not spend my money to support this.

Share the Road Metric Century

2008-09-01T21:23:00.000-04:00

Labor Day

2008-08-31T20:42:00.005-04:00

August Bike Miles: 425.34

# of Bikes Cleaned Today: 3

Feeling of riding a CLEAN bike- priceless

Today I spent my Labor Day washing, degreasing, fixing, adjusting and admiring my bikes, and Matt's. I had been slacking in the general maintenance department this month with Matt's return and with the rain Goosey needed a full once over. I also worked on the new German bike that Matt lovingly bought for me. Next time I do a big overhaul I will take pictures, the before and after was significant in the details. Then I did a full once over on his Trek 1000, which was dirtier than the German bike that looks as though it's been a garage or basement for 10 years. His Trek has been rode hard, and we guesstimate about 1400 miles and has never been cleaned. Never. Time for some maintenance before our big ride!

Yesterday we headed to the bike shop to pick up a few things (to do all the maintenance today) and it turned into an all day excursion going from shop to shop looking for a new back rim for his old mountain bike. He is ready for his own commuter instead of using his Trek for back and forth and just little trips. He has an old Raleigh M50 that he used to ride around campus before he met me. Last year someone stole the back wheel at the bike rack. So we are on the search for the cheapest back wheel and cassette available. After scouring ATL and not coming up with anything under $65 for just the wheel, we found it on Amazon. They have EVERYTHING on there these days and super low prices, and predictable shipping. Next weekend we'll work on the Raleigh and get him a commuter.

Last night we had been planning to attend the DRIVE INVASION at the local Starlite Drive In for the epic annual Labor Weekend festivities, but at $24 each to get in, and our splurge at the bike shop we changed plans. We decided literally at the last minute to go to our local down the street theater and see the new Ben Stiller movie Tropic Thunder. We rode our bikes and sneaked in some beer. The theater was surprising crowded and we made it just in time for the beginning of the movie. It was freaking HILARIOUS!!! I can't remember the last time I laughed like that in a movie, and the whole theater was cracking up too! Robert Downey Jr was UNBELIEVABLY good- and I don't normally like him. Anyways, it's a MUST SEE!

Friday night Matt met me downtown and we did do the Critical Mass ride. It ended up being fun. It was really a laid back crowd, not the normal rambuncious energy from pass CMs. But it was a good group of people, lots of commuters this time. It was cool riding as it was getting dark. Matt didn't have his lights on the Trek (also why we needed to do so much maintenance) so when the ride was heading back it went right by our house and we jumped off. I was planning on us riding to Lizzie's party (She is Clemson and her roommate is Alabama and there was a big game in Atlanta this weekend). But we drove. It kinda sucked, not the party, but that we had to drive to go somewhere less than 4 miles away! Drove me crazy! But the party ended up being fun and we were really glad we went.

Tomorrow is our big ride- The Share The Road Century. We are planning to do the Metric at 62 miles, unless we feel fabulous then we might go the other 38- we'll see. I'm pretty excited I've now rode more miles this summer than I drove in my car. 860 vs. 740 - and that included my Memorial Day and 4th of July trips to Alabama. This week I went to lunch with my boss and we drove, then Matt and I drove yesterday AND Friday night. I've been in a vehicle more this week than I'd like. But I'm feeling positive that it is such a rarity now to be a car at all.

Convoluted Mass

2008-08-28T21:00:00.004-04:00

Critical Mass has been a lot of fun for me this summer. I've made friends and hanging out with other bikers is always a good thing. Matt was gone all summer so I had been going by myself and was just starting to go full time on the bike in May. After 100 days of riding in the city, and getting to know the weakness of Atlanta's cycling infrastructure I get very frustrated with the RED LIGHT RUNNERS whom all converge the last Friday of every month. And the rest of us are there too...

I won't go into much detail, but it is the age old story of us vs. them in the bike world - those that stop at red lights vs. those that don't. I used to think it was a fixed vs. geared, but I have seen full kits and top of the line derailleurs fly through red lights with heads down.

In order for there to be a push for bicycle friendliness amongst drivers, and city officials who can put in better infrastructure, following the rules (also known as laws) of the road goes a long way. In my humble opinion anyways.

When cyclists blaze through red lights, squeeze through traffic, take over the road in sporadic fashion and then turn and scream or flip off drivers who didn't see their hairball moves that came out of no where. That doesn't make a good argument that drivers and infrastructure needs to be improved. Instead it makes the argument that the cyclists need improvement since they can't seem to follow basic rules. If the cyclists aren't willing to follow the rules of the road, then whey do they want the 'right' to the road? I've met these types of people on my way to Critical Mass (in addition to my daily commutes) and have exchanged viewpoints several times. In the end we end up riding in a big group and having fun.

I can't help but think that perhaps by riding in Critical Mass it is supporting this group of rouge-cyclists. Also the 'corking' of intersections for the Mass to pass through the red lights seems to make the RED LIGHT RUNNERS think that this is acceptable behavior when they are riding alone.

I also can't help but think that this isn't the premise of Critical Mass and that it is for all cyclists, and promoting cycling in general, safely I hope. The 'corking' allows the riders to pass in a big mass, safely AND brings awareness to the drivers that LOOK there is a lot of bicyclists in this town- maybe I should watch out, maybe they should have a right to the road too.

I also hope that the more cyclists that follow the rules of the road it rubs off on the lawless ones and sets a good example. Lead by example right? So I've been struggling with do I go to CM tonight or not?

My Daily Grind

2008-08-26T21:28:00.005-04:00

I took this set of photos last week before the rain started and the 'severe' clouds moved in and am just getting around to sharing them! This is my daily commute that I have crowned as the safest and most direct route between my house and work. It starts with a little jaunt down my street in the dark crossing into another quiet neighborhood and then cutting through our famous Piedmont Park. This is one of my favorite parts for several reasons:

I'm still sleepy so it's nice to not have to deal with traffic for the first 10 minutes in the mornings.
The views are really nice of the city lights behind the park.
A lot of people walk their dogs in this hour at the park, I really enjoy those happy mongrels waggin their tails and being so darn happy! It's like the dogs know how lucky they are to be out that early.
I enjoy the routine of the bootcamp people being there every morning. Do you have these in your towns? Atlanta has a surge of 'bootcamp' fitness workshops at all the city's parks. Piedmont has two groups that range from 25-50+ people in each group. Last week it got down to 67* in the am and there was dew on the grass. They left their imprints in the grass....

After cutting through the park I cut into one of Atlanta's premier neighborhoods- Ansley Park. This was the great view with the full moon last week over the high rises.... AND this part starts with a good downhill before I hit my numerous little hills...
From here I hit Peachtree Road and head to Buckhead and am in stop and go traffic the rest of the way. There is really only one long slow incline on the way and it gets easier everyday. Because it's cooler in the morning and my mind is still too asleep to wonder much I find that it's a great time to do little intervals. I try to aim for 30 seconds all out, but sometimes I'm so fast I get caught in the traffic lights, and I always stop for red lights. But some mornings it works out with the lights and I get a really great, intense workout in to start my day.

Then before I know it I'm in fancy-smancy Buckhead with it's glistening tall modern buildings...
After my 5.5 miles of intervals along Peachtree I come to Piedmont and Peachtree intersection where a really nice bike lane shows up out of nowhere. It's like a little piece of pie at the end of my ride. Ahhhhh, I can feel my body relax as I slow down in my own space from the passing vehicles, and it's less than .75 miles to work so I spin my legs out and smile and take my time.

Then in the afternoons I do it all over again. Down Peachtree with the stop and go traffic. Then my left turn into Ansley Park where they have another bike lane to remind me to relax and just sit back and enjoy my commute. Again, here is another picture of the Midtown buildings right behind the historical southern homes along my route. My pictures aren't really showing it, but the neighborhood seems so perfect with the perfect grass and planted flowers. That's my daily route that I've been conquering, lately in the rain. Speaking of the rain, yesterday was my most hardcore commuting day yet. My route changed as I had all day mandatory training at Emory University's Hotel and Conference Center. Since Emory just fully implemented their bike share program I knew they were bike friendly. So I called ahead and asked if I could use the locker room in their pool/gym area to get ready in the morning since it was calling for rain. They said no problem. Training started at 8am and I only live 4.5 miles away. I plotted out my neighborhood route and packed my trunk bag for the morning planning to leave early at 6:15 just because I didn't know the route or have ever been to the Conference Center.

The first mile into the downpour I thought 'what am I doing this for?' Then out of nowhere a huge smile came over my face and it became fun! And I learned a few lessons, as it was the heaviest rain by FAR that I have rode in. The complete downpour rendered my headlight not much more than a faint beacon and did not shed light as it does on a clear and warm night here in Atlanta. My planned route would have taken me along the Freedom Parkway PATH system, but there aren't many streetlights along that route so I ditched it at the last moment to take the main street. The main street is RED on the bike route map published by Atlanta Bicycle Campaign- which means high traffic and the opposite of bike friendly. But it was 6:15 in the morning I thought and I only needed to go about 1.25 miles. I made it about a block on Ponce before I got on the sidewalk. Although there wasn't much traffic Ponce is two lanes in either direction and the right lane had a river flowing, so I did the sidewalk thing until my turn. I turned into the Fernbank neighborhood which that street took me straight to Emory so it was easy. However, the houses are big and far apart and not many streetlights. In the downpour my weak little $29.95 headlight was virtually useless as the light did not light up anything in front of me except the flow of rain. I almost went down as a branch that had fallen into the street surprised me, luckily my cat-like-reflexes saved me! Lesson there is I need to buy a REAL headlight as soon as possible as I will be commuting in the dark very soon.

Additional lesson is that the Emory Hotel was super friendly about having me walk with squishy shoes inside dripping wet (completely soaked like I had jumped in a lake)! They gave me a key to get into the locker room and offered use of the guest dryer in the laundry facility for my clothes. The locker room had everything I needed, a warm shower, a dry sauna to dry out my stuff, free (good) shampoo/conditioner/lotion, fluffy white towels and TA DAH! A working hair dryer! I was set. Then it turned out they left it off my agenda but we were invited to have a really great buffet breakfast before our training! I really liked Emory- oh! I almost forgot AND the bike racks were RIGHT NEXT to the main entrance of the hotel! Rock on. I felt totally welcomed on my most hardcore bike commuting day!

By the way, the sun came out when I rode home from Emory, at least for the first 10 minutes then it just rained lightly- it was really nice!

Foot In My Mouth...

2008-08-25T12:33:00.002-04:00

Perhaps I spoke to soon when I made the crack about the 'severe' weather warnings. It looks like it's going to be a wet ride home today!

This morning was 75* and full cloud coverage as I couldn't see the tall buildings that were less than 1/2 mile away as I rode through the park. The roads were wet from showers throughout the night (I sure slept good with the window open and the sound of the rain) and it sprinkled or misted on me all the way to work. I wasn't soaked but I was wet. An older gentlemen in a nice suit exclaimed- "Wow! You sure got a good workout this morning!" I think he thought I was just sweating heavily!

The experiment of the long ride Saturday followed by Sunday's 45 minute walk + 15 min easy spin on the bike seemed to do ok, better than if I didn't do anything. My legs felt strong this morning, not heavy, but not 100% fresh either. This week will be an easy week as we have a Metric Century planned for Monday Labor Day which I want to keep up with super-in-shape-from-running-and-biking-all-summer-Matt and really enjoy it without feeling dead or hurt on Tuesday at work!

Stone Mountain Saturday

2008-08-24T19:51:00.007-04:00

This Week's Bike Miles: 104.96
August Miles: 350.98

It was an average commuting week. I rode all days except Wednesday when I took Blue to the vet up in Marietta, which is about an hour drive. This is my second week this month of 100+ miles. I'm pretty excited about that. Matt and I rode to Stone Mountain yesterday, which put me over the 100 mark. It is about 18 miles from our house and then we had lunch here....
in the little sleepy town of Stone Mountain. I was hungry so I ate everything on my plate, it really wasn't that good though. Live and learn, they had a really limited menu and we were starving. It was cool because we ate outside on this little second floor deck and we rode out there together.
It was a gray day, lots of clouds and wind from Tropical Storm Fay from Florida. We fought the wind the whole way out there, but it pushed us home. They have been saying rain, rain, storm a comin' all week long. We even got a severe weather warning on Wed at work, but no weather. It just isn't blue sky and 95* and they make a big deal like it's 'severe.' Saturday morning we were going to get going at 8am, but the doppler didn't look good and the weather report was saying severe, severe weather coming this morning! We talked about baggin it all together or just doing a short ride or a long walk with the boys. We walked over to the store with the boys and then started to just sit around. I jumped up- "I HAVE to go ride!" I told Matt at about 10:30.

He said Ok I'll go too then. We decided to just start heading to Stone Mtn and see how the weather was in about an hour. There were a ton of cyclists out and the route was so easy and fun (other than the wind!) because it was cool and sprinklin here and there just lightly. So we kept going....and it all worked out and we had a great time!

Here is Matt making his 'go ahead and take my picture' face....
Here I am trying to make the same face...
Today we just hung around the house and recovered from a busy week. It's really great having him home. We have been adjusting to living together again and getting all his stuff put away in our little tiny place, and just spending time together. That's why I haven't been bloggin much lately, but I've also been working on something new....more to come on that soon!

The President and I

2008-08-19T19:37:00.010-04:00

That's right folks, I am now have something in common with George Bush that puts us in the same small group. (insert your favorite George Bush is stupid slur here) But that's not what I'm talking about.... we both have refueled a hydrogen car! That's right, when the hydrogen stations emerge in our near future we can both be gas station attendants and fill up your car for you! It's a rare skill. Let me do my best to explain the procedure in layman terms for you...

First you open the car's tank by opening a little door on the side of the car.
Pull off the cap to the tank (I know this is revolutionary and so exciting!)
Stick this nozzle from the pump onto the tank's cap thing.
This is where it gets tricky- you have to turn the nozzle- which does have arrows to remind you to do this. This action seems to engage the nozzle-pump thing with the vehicles tank. (I know I look perplexed, but really it was easy- I was waaaay overthinking it!)
Turn back to the pump and push a button on the pump, just like today's modern gasoline pumps- they were very smart to make it so familiar!
Then you wait for the tank to fill. Here I am waiting and looking quite fab...

7. When the pump stops (don't worry its automatic!) you disengage by turning the nozzle the opposite direction and you place it back on the pump.

8. Replace the cap back on your tank and close the little door and WAL AH!

Your car now can use an odorless, ZERO emission fuel ready to drive for 200 miles. Well actually the vehicle then emits water, so it's really just ZERO carbon emissions. Not to worry, since it's hydrogen in gas form, if it spills out of the tank it just evaporates and turns back into air. Pretty cool. I refueled with the gas version- as in gas like helium, you can't see it or smell it and it is not a liquid. That is the easy and safe way to use hydrogen. Air Products has invented this system to work with hydrogen Fuel Cell Cars- like electric cars that we had all the hype on in the late 90's but instead of plugging them in to recharge you refuel with the hydrogen. My boyfriend (Matt) worked in that department, that's how I know all this...anyways back to my story.

There is another hydrogen option for vehicles...liquid hydrogen. Liquid hydrogen can be used like todays gasoline running a combustible engine. This is the route that BMW is going with their hydrogen cars. I didn't get the opportunity to refuel one of these cars because liquid hydrogen is highly combustible- meaning it catches fire and can explode if it mixes with air. Kinda scary. It takes a huge contraption on a long bed semi-truck to refuel the BMWs. Here is the set up. There are actually 2 semi trucks and that shorty truck. It takes about an hour to get ready to fuel with liquid hydrogen for 3 cars!The hose that they use for the liquid hydrogen is very rigid, so it doesn't flex. They designed this refueling system to be on the ground originally. Since the hose doesn't flex, they have to set up this ramp system to refuel the cars each time- so they are at the same level and the hose can reach.
Seemed kinda stupid to me. But since it's just a media tour, and the cars are the stars not the refueling system BMW made do. I thought it was funny looking- the pump station- the umbrella is just to keep the glare off the controls for the guys, but I think it looks like a fancy hot dog vendor. They need balloons attached for the full vendor affect.

Here (pic above) the German guy is hooking up the rigid hose to the car. The hose is really big as you can see. Makes it look like you gotta be muscle man to do it. But as you can see here (pic below) I wouldn't quite describe the German guy as muscle man. But he was really nice. He asked me 'do you like cars a lot?'

I'm afraid I don't like cars alot, I told him "Actually I don't drive." Kind of a funny little interaction. He didn't seem to know what to say.

I didn't get pictures to show that they had caution tape all around them, and fire extinguishers. It was quite the show just watching them refuel the 3 beamers. 2 were hybrids- and one was a straight liquid hydrogen car, which seemed to be the star of the tour.

This tour had cars from all the manufactures and was being put on by the US DOT. The California Fuel Cell Partnership were driving the cars from city to city. They are going from Maine to California. Mobile refueling trucks are necessary because there are only 68 hydrogen (the gas kind, not liquid) stations in our country. Air Products has the only DOT certified hydrogen refueling trucks in the country, so that is what Matt has been working on in Pennsylvania where the AP headquarters are located.

Again here is the Air Products refueling truck. It was really simple, they turned it on by opening the valves and that was it. They are refueling the 7 cars from Toyota, Nissan, GM and Ford (I think that was all) while BMW has that entire crazy set up to fill 3 cars.

It only took 2 guys to run the Air Products truck (above) and Matt as an intern was basically along for the ride. Although he really enjoyed talking to the people about it and explaining it all waaay more technically than I just did! If you have specific questions I'll have to pass them on. Seriously- this is my best stab at getting technical about all this for you all. Although poor Matt has explained it a zillion times! It's starting to slowly sink in....

This is Matt, Mike and Tom in front of the little hydrogen truck that could. These guys adored Matt! Calling him their "adopted son." Tom even called last night to say hi and tell Matt how well the end of the route went. (The California Air Product guys are taking care of the rest of the tour. It was really confusing logisitcs!) It was really nice of him to call Matt, it meant a lot.

This all was this last Sunday morning. I met up with them in Augusta, Georgia late Saturday night. I took the greyhound bus- maybe I'll write a post about that tomorrow! After refueling, Matt and I followed the cars to Atlantic Station in Atlanta for a public showing of the cars. Here is a link for more info on the national tour.

Matt is home now after being in PA for 3 months. Georgia Tech classes started Monday, so he is back in classes for his last semester.
I'm back to my commute by biking in Atlanta. Breathing exhaust and asthma inducing emissions. I highly doubt the President has that in common with me.

My Prince Is Coming

2008-08-14T20:43:00.002-04:00

BFAD

2008-08-11T21:21:00.001-04:00

The Perfect Circle from Matthew on Vimeo.

First 100 Mile Week

2008-08-10T20:22:00.010-04:00

Today's Temp: 84* High
Today's Miles on Bike: 29.58

This Week's Bike Miles: 100.68

I'm pretty proud of that 100 Miles. It's been my goal since I started full time bike commuting to rack up a 100 miles in a normal week. It was a good week, even with the one driving day last Wednesday. Rock on to me!

For our long, fun ride today the cuz and I did a Tour de ATL just out sightseeing and at a nice slow touring pace. I found this loop on Bikely.com which was our starting point for our route today. It was a really nice route! Lots of different neighborhoods and low traffic streets. We saw a lot of other bikers out in their full kits, so I figured it was a good route!

Turned out Lizzie was not feeling 100% as she didn't hydrate properly yesterday and has started a new workout routine, so it added up to a slow ride today. She pushed through and we ended up doing the miles we planned anyways mostly because we got lost several times. opps!

Here she is putting on a good show of feeling good! We had a lot of fun.

I really enjoy riding with her. I've done most of my riding by myself. I've only had one other girlfriend that I rode with back in Alaska who one day confessed to me that she didn't really love riding bikes, she just liked that it was a good workout. I was totally disheartened, I had always thought she loved bikes like me. I've grown to realize most people that ride don't have the affection like I do and I've accepted it. I guess it's like guys that love cars, or fishing, I just really like bikes. Anyways, I've had a few riding partners over the years, but riding in Atlanta with the traffic and with every street different, you just kinda have to 'click' together to ride well together I've found. Lizzie and I seem to ride pretty well together. Sometimes riding side by side, and taking turns leading the way, it's always comforable riding with her. It's nice to have company and we always laugh a lot!

Meanwhile others were rocking out 100 miles in just hours! Lance finished 2nd at the Leadville 100....Fatty finished too! Geoff rocked the Alaskan 100 Miler Resurrection Pass Race...on foot! Jill reports that he did it in just over 17 hours! Unreal. It took me a whole week!

What a Week

2008-08-08T14:31:00.007-04:00

The tree down in my backyard

Well, I lived. I made it through a rough patch of ridiculously HOT and HUMID weather and a crazy couple of storms in the last week. Mostly, on my bike. It's been awhile since I posted I know, I've been in a rather whinny mood with the 'terrible' weather I thought I'd be nice and spare all of you with my complaints. But here's a "quick" wrap up. (go ahead settle in, I know, I know I tend to get long winded! But you keep coming back to read what I write, so....)

SATURDAY
Last Saturday night the cuz and I had plans to ride our bikes to go out and see a local burlesque show with one of my friends that also rides bikes. Let me set up the day with the weather report - Hazy and HOT at 94* with 90% humidity with a CAUTION your baby's lungs might swell BAD AIR QUALITY rating for the day. The dogs haven't been outside in a week with the heat like it's been. Blue has even put on some weight since he's become one with the couch this week. back to my story...I was really looking forward to going out on our bikes that night hoping to:

1. Forcing myself to leave the window A/C unit and get out of the house
2. Feeling the self-made breeze on the bike
3. We were planning to be out past midnight so I was looking forward to cooler temps into the night. You know, like 80* (I know I'm sick!)

Lizzie planning to ride her bike over to my house for the first time instead of driving turned out to be quite exciting! It's only 4 miles, but she hadn't really rode the new bike by herself. It was kind of like a little bird poking their head out of the nest to see if MAYBE they COULD fly! I was quite proud! I started to get out my extra lights to put on her bike when she got to my place. But it was so dark I had to turn on the living room light. That's odd I thought to myself, it's only 7pm. I looked out the window trying to figure out in my sweaty fog why it was so dark so early. There was a GIANT BLACK monstrous cloud, and pink lightening! Just then I heard the first crack of thunder. I immediately picked up my phone to call the cuz to say "ABORT! ABORT MISSION! DON'T ATTEMPT TO RIDE IN THIS!!!!"

Being the trooper that she is, Lizzie was thinking she could out ride the demon cloud covering her apartment complex. She later told me she didn't want me to think she was wimping out. Again, I'm so proud! But no, there was NO WAY she or even Lance himself could outrun that storm. Ok Maybe Lance could, but the storm was coming from the northeast, and I live south of Lizzie, so even Lance would have rode smack into that freak of nature storm!
Is that really how big my ass is? When did that happen?

By the time Lizzie made it to my house, over 200,000 homes had lost power in Atlanta. Yep me too. And did I mention it was stifling HOT? The sweat poured on with out the fans and little ac unit to help out. But on the bright side the wind whipped up and it suddenly POUREd rain in sheets like I've never seen. It looked like a waterfall coming down my street it was so heavy and so sudden. Oh, and I watched a 50 foot tree go down in my backyard as I was talking to Matt (the new friend) on the phone. Crazyness. After the bulk of the storm passed almost 45 minutes later, the lightening was still hitting all around and was still pink. Pink Lightening! So we drove on Saturday night to go out. We picked up my friend Matt (different than the boyfriend Matt) and ended up enjoying ourselves at the Atlanta Burlesque show which was a Monty-Python style show. Something different and fun. And it was only $10 per person AND included all you can drink wine & beer. Deal!

Lizzie was a bikin fool! Look how far ahead she is!

SUNDAY
The cuz and I decided Saturday wasn't adventure enough since we missed out on the bikes and we needed a good ride. (Gosh I'm proud of her!) It was her plan to make Sundays the "long, fun ride day". She even wrote it down on her workout schedule, so it's like, set in stone now that we do long, fun rides on Sundays. Rock on. Anyways, I had this whole plan to ride out to Decatur Square along the bike paths (and shaded trees) and then have lunch at some eclectic little cafe then turn around and come back. Oh, I forgot to mention, it was even HOTTER on Sunday! Well it was 94* again, but 95% HUMIDITY- both days were 'record breaking' not something I like to hear in the weather report. To steal a Jill quote who once lived in the desert and remembers "the oven rides, dripping so much sweat and rubber that you could have scraped pieces of me off the pavement to make gravy." yeah, that's exactly how it felt. Lizzie was awesome and rode over to my house on Sunday at 1:30 to depart for our long, fun ride to Decatur. We took our time and enjoyed our slight breeze and the heaviness in our lungs from the thick air. We rode out to Decatur, only about 10 miles away and had lunch at the only open non-Mexican restaurant in the square- along with everyone else. Luckily the food was ok cause the service sucked. But we did get ice in our water bottles from the bar. I rode home with Lizzie on the Raleigh to see the great back road route she came up with between our homesteads. It was pretty rockin with slow traffic and neighborhoody treed streets and nice shoulders. Honestly I don't even remember going to bed that night, I was delirious from the heat.

Dang! I'm fast and cool! Look at that great aero positioning!

MONDAY
The work week sucked. There was just so much to do, no love from the co-workers and my commutes weren't going too well. I kept thinking I was just super worn out from all the miles this month, but I rested so much in the last week. I only rode like 30 miles M-F last week. My legs felt good and fresh, but I just had no omph. I know my nutrition sucks, but its not THAT bad to make me feel so miserable and my cardio just wasn't great. I was losing my 'fun' on the bike and frustrated. And why can't MATT just come home already!?!

TUESDAY
The cuz and I had tickets to Amos Lee at Variety Playhouse. A show I've been looking forward to for a couple months now. Awesome Lizzie rode over to my house in the heat and humidity again while attempting to not sweat her socks off. Actually she wasn't wearing any socks, but you get the point. We went to the show via bikes and tried to ride really, Really slow as to not sweat too much. HA! We crack me up! Sweat we did, but whatever, we are still cool! It was so dang hot! We enjoyed the show, stood up front and stayed til the end. Then Lizzie rode herself home(I finally put those lights on the Raleigh for her). She finally made that plunge out of the nest to fly!

WEDNESDAY
I was so fed up and had so much to juggle at work that (I can't believe I'm admitting this) I did it. I...drove...to work. For no reason! I PAID $9 to park my stupid car all day at the office parking deck. I so felt guilty and crappy all day, AND I was tired from the late night at the show. I was in a foul mood at the office, I felt like everyone knew I drove for no reason and thought something of it. But I will admit the a/c in my car did feel really nice. Turns out, no one else cared if I drove or not. I was expecting to be stoned or get called out, but nothing happened. The guys a the gym didn't even say anything the next day. I guess that confirms that my driving issue is totally an internal obsession I have.

THURSDAY
I am trying to get LEED accredited and have 6 weeks of evening classes to get ready starting this week. They are scheduled til 7 each Thursday. I was looking forward to riding home at this time hoping (as usual) that the temp might drop a few mercury points and be a little less uncomfortable. That morning was HOT! It was 80* at 6:30 in the morning. I was dripping in sweat and my lungs felt heavy by the time I got to the end of my street. And it was dark, I used my headlight it was so dark. But also SO hot, it was unnatural I tell ya. It's still hard for me to not expect it to be cold when it's dark, I guess that is an Alaska kid thing. That afternoon (which was crazy at work) there was a HUGE storm again. Since I'm on the 19th floor I had a very different perspective this time. The wind was whipping, and there was hail and lightening and thunder right outside our windows. We were smack in the middle of it - eye level in fact! It was quite exciting really. A coworker walked in on me just as I jumped and yelped from a crack of lightening that I think might of hit our building as I was watching the storm! I may never live that down.

Nice Helmet! I can't ever get that trunk bag to stay on straight!

Luckily by the time my class was over the temp had dropped to 80* maybe even 79* after the rain storm and it was the most wonderful feeling to my skin! I almost shivered and thought, I almost need long sleeves!!!!! I LOVE IT!!! On my bike it felt like I flew home! My legs powered up the (little, slight) inclines (that I call hills) like never before! I was back baby! And better than ever! My 9 mile route home felt effortless! As I was smiling at myself in awe for my fitness improvements I realized that maybe, just perhaps the temp and humidity had a lot more to do with my 'slump' than I gave it credit for. You think? It felt so good when I got home I took the boys for a little jaunt around the neighborhood to enjoy the newfound coolness in the air.

FRIDAY
The morning was AMAZINGLY cool at 6:45 am it was 71* which surprised me as being cooler outside than in my house. Tank top and shorts felt perfect. I felt strong and fresh on the ride in. The 'hills' were effortless and I wasn't even breathing hard. I am in awe at how the humidity affects my effort and my breathing while riding. The work week is over now (well another hour), I got all my work done or survived it anyways. I caught up on my blog reading - Fatty cracked me up with his DZnuts review! This was especially funny to me since I've been struggling with saddle sores to top it all off this week. Thank your goodness I spared you that story!

There were three birthdays at the office this week so I'm eatting a delicious ORANGE cupcake right now which is a great way to end the week. I have no real plans this weekend except to watch the Olympics with the cuz and to clean my house. Matt (the boyfriend) FINALLY gets home next weekend, so I plan on putting the house back together. But that's really a whole nother (long winded) post!

Happy Friday!

I'll try to jazz this up with some photos later! I really need to work on taking some better pictures! They really suck lately and are far and few between.

100* Heat Index

2008-08-05T08:01:00.002-04:00

I'm not entirely sure I want to know what a heat index is, but yeah, it's pretty hot right now. I keep telling myself it's not as hot as last year, yet. My legs are feeling fresh after taking an 8 day recovery stint and learning (forcing myself) to ride SLOW. I mean SLOW as you can imagine. It's really hard to go so slow, but my legs are thanking me for it. I now have a plan to build up my endurance with some volume and intensity increases backed by SLOW rides. It looked great on paper! Then I realized 'wow, it's really hot outside' which kinda zaps the fun, almost.

Yesterday on the ride home it was dang hot so I choose the fastest of the routes home and relied on the wind I created and from the traffic whizzing by. Worked great I was only borderline miserable in the heat. I'm consuming about 150oz + throughout the day and not even a whole bottle on the way home so I think I'm hydrating well. After coming off the recovery stint I felt like I had to work twice as hard to get my heart rate up and my legs burning. I think that is a good thing. So it's all good other than the heat.

What if?

2008-08-03T22:44:00.005-04:00

If you can make a city move by bicycle it will be a more human and equaltarian city. While cars separate people, bicycles bring us together making us a more integrated and friendly society.

Do you hate traffic? I do. And everyone I know here complains about it, but nothing changes. With Atlanta's traffic issues, and year round temperate weather one would think that our city planners would be planning better use of bicycles as viable transportation. I found this video on littlecircles - the video starts out slow for about 5 minutes so it's cool to skip ahead..it then shows us what bicycle heaven looks like. It makes so much sense - the planning for pedestrians and cyclist to be safe and the idea that everyone, even those without cars has a right to get around their city. It makes so much sense it is surreal and seems like a far fetched dream as I sit here in Atlanta watching this video. I'm thinking I should email this video to every Atlanta city planner that I can find an email for. And maybe the mayor and her ENTIRE staff. I'm pretty good with Internet research to find people. Maybe it could be a little seed? Maybe something could grow?

Bike Ballet

2008-08-02T11:56:00.001-04:00

BFF Block Party LA 2008 from rossangeles on Vimeo.
I found this over at Copenhagen Cycle Chic and was rather impressed and inspired, and can't help but wonder- why have I never attempted to ride my bike backwards?

Talking Bike Racks

2008-07-31T15:22:00.001-04:00

Matt and I have tickets to see David Byrnes at Chastain Park on Sept 20th. I really enjoy his new stuff and the Talking Heads, and am guessing after reading his site and blog that it should be a rather unique show! Because he is a cyclist and has done so much advocating safe cycling we are planning to ride our bikes to the show. Luckily the show is on a Saturday and will be over at 11:00pm because it's a rather ambitious ride. It is only a direct 8 miles each way but it is probably one of the most UN-friendly bike routes which means we will probably add at least another 5 miles to each route. More on that in the future...

By the way...don't you TOTALLY want one of his grand bike racks in your town?! I do!

Things People Say To Me

2008-07-30T10:12:00.005-04:00

Jack over at Bike Commuters blog had a post that reminded me of some of the things people say to me because I ride a bike for my daily transportation. Here are some highlights:

While waiting at a stop light an older southern black gentleman says to me….
“Bicycle Gangsta! Yeah, that’s whatcha are. Ya bicycle gangsta YOU! Ya get off from yaw office building job and change outta yaw suit and get on ya bike and ya turn into a bicycle gangsta!”
My response: “But I don’t wear a suit.”
His response: “Oh, but I know you. Yaw Bicycle Gangsta!”
Thoughts: But I really don’t wear a suit. I hate suits. I hope to never have a job where I have to wear suits.

Lady Parking Attendant in the morning as I lock up my bike …
“I looove your bike with the giant basket it reminds me of home! I am from Ethiopia and everyone’s rides, no driving. When I went to high school I rode a bike with a basket ONE hour each ways every day. I miss it. I wish I could ride to work, but it’s 22 miles each way!”
Thoughts: I wish she could ride everyday too. I’ve been thinking about giving her Rocky when the new bike gets here.

Riding up in the elevator to my office after getting ready at the gym in the basement of my building and older white guy says…
“Wow! (he points enthusiastically to my helmet hanging off my bag) You ride to work?! Everyday?” Yes I do I tell him. “Wow! You just inspired me! I think I’m going to try that.”
Thoughts: Cool. I hope the bike racks don’t get too crowded, but I’m excited that people are willing to try commuting by bike too! *The last two days there is a new bike on the rack, I wonder if it's his?

Lady with pink hair and a studded belt and blue converse that had watched me for several mornings and smiled at me while I hiked my bike up on my shoulder to go up the stairs at the Buckhead MARTA station…
“More power to ya girl!”
Thoughts: That was out of the blue, but I hope she is inspired to ride.

Co-worker in the mornings in the office kitchen…
“How was your ride this morning? How long did it take you?”
Thoughts: He asks this every morning! I hope he is inspired to ride his bike too.

Gangster looking guys in a rusty beater old brown Mazda 2 door car as I am waiting for a red light along Peachtree Road.
“Nice Bike!” laughing as they pull away at the green light.
Thoughts: Nice *car* Jackass.

My boss, everyday.
“Did you ride today?”
Thoughts: Of course I did. I think she secretly wants me not too just to make her feel better about justifying the use and need of her giant Expedition *which she has admitted to being too big and they owe too much to sell it now.

My neighbor, I live in a duplex so we share a front porch…
“Where did you go today? Allover I bet. You ride like a hundred miles a day huh?”
Thoughts: I wish I had that kind of time to ride.

Another Co-worker, numerous times...
“What do you do when it rains?”
Thoughts: This is my MOST asked question. I used to answer with specifics on how I wrap everything up in baggies and I how I got a new waterproof trunk bag. But simply saying "I get wet" usually gets the best response- Matt came up with that one.

A lady *in a suit* in the elevator noticed that I had two bags (my trunk and handlebar bag) and my helmet before she got off on the law firm floor below mine she said…
“You ride your bike to work and have to carry ALL that?! Woo- that’s too much work for me!”
Thoughts: She is wearing panty hose, heels, a TON of makeup and looks like her hair took her at least 30 minutes to fix in that perfect fancy up-do, not to mention she is lawyer so obviously went to law school- isn't that like hard work? Did she mean riding a bike is too much work or did she mean carrying the two 6”x12” bags?

A lady at the gym that gets ready at the same time I do every morning asked me…
“Are you still riding your bike? How do you do it in the heat?”
Thoughts: It’s pretty nice and cool in the mornings most days.
I responded with “I guess I’ve gotten used to it since I’m out there everyday.”

Last night at the bike rack in Little 5 Points, another chick was unlocking her bike right next to mine at about 10:45…
“Aren’t you glad it’s not storming! We can count our blessings that we don’t have to ride home in the rain and lightening! Have a good ride home!”
Thoughts: I love riding my bike!

CM NYC

2008-07-29T13:40:00.002-04:00

I thought Critical Mass would be fun in NYC. i thought.

My Favorite Month of the Year

2008-07-28T15:11:00.015-04:00

Indifferent. I guess that is how I’m feeling today. I do this to myself every July. I get so wrapped up in the tour that it becomes part of me, every day in July, I dream about it nightly and then it's over. Just like that. Leaving me with left over emotions, chronic tiredness and idle hands that are not sure what to do with my time.

Prior to the start on July 5th, I purchased a bottle of Prosecco (I don’t really like champagne so this is my replacement). I had meant to uncork the bottle the Saturday before the tour started as a celebration. Being it was July 4th everyone else was already celebrating (and drinking) and I started my celebration off with Lizzie’s sangria. Yum and ah- umm… won’t do that again, I paid for it for the next couple days with an intense hangover. But I think in retrospect it was a good shock to the system to get me back in the mode. I’m sure this isn’t making much sense if you do not know me intimately… Let me try to give some preface. I have quit drinking alcoholic beverages since the first of the year. Mostly due to over-indulgence, needing to lose weight and wanting to reboot the metabolism and just a new challenge for myself. So far it was going really good. The New Year’s resolution didn’t take into account the tour however. And I had decided I would not be watching the tour without Levi there anyways. And then the mail came...

My July issue of Bicycling came in mid June and reminded me that I am a fan of the race itself, and not necessarily the riders. I got out the calendar and meticulously planned out the month’s stages, rest days and my important deadlines. There is something about the epic journey that transforms me temporarily into a complete cycling junkie. It’s really never been about the finish for me it’s about the entire 21 days (plus the two rest days) of suffering, and intense risk and the awe of human endurance. It is also about tradition, love of the bike, and the bike community on a global scale. On the mountain stages when the crowds line the switchbacks and just go crazy as the riders struggle and attack up the epic mountains, it gives me goose bumps and I can feel the rush from the fans and can only imagine what it feels like to the riders to have that much support while having to focus and concentrate on biking. The stage wins are filled with emotion after 100+ miles of gut wrenching riding, and the sprints to the finish cause me to cheer and jump from my seat with uncontrollable excitement for the riders.

I’ve started my own tradition of following along here in America where ever I find myself each year. Each day I watch the live feeds on the internet in the morning at 8:30 am, which turns out is in German, so I mute it. I listen (in stereo) live on the British Eurosport radio and watch the live ticker and newsflashes on another site. It’s quite the multi-tasking accomplishment each day as everything has about a 30-45 second delay. It is taking multi-tasking to another level during workdays, where I also have to meet deadlines and attend meetings. Let’s just say everyone thinks I’m a little moody in July because I am in my office all day and don’t have time to chit-chat. Like I said… serious multi-tasking going on. My focus gets entirely shot because there is such limited coverage of the tour, I have to check several websites to keep up with all the details. Not to mention this year I had the added workload of keeping up with all the rider's blogs and diaries which really added even more of a personal connection to the race and of which I REALLY enjoyed a lot!

At night I seek out the best tv’s in my locale and trying to make friends with the tv remote controller (usually the head bartender) for the nightly replay of the day’s stage where I regurgitate all the details of the day's coverage to whomever will listen or accidentally asks. Since it is only once per year I can’t watch each stage enough. Each time I watch I see different details, as I believe it is truely impossible to catch all the highlights just watching it once and from one perspective which is all we get here in America with our limited coverage. Generally after about a week and a half I usually don’t have to ask my venue to change the channel anymore. They see me when I come in and know I’m there for the tour stage. I order my drink, and drink slowly and usually order food. By the end of each stage there is usually someone new watching along at the bar and asking questions about the tour. I have found after several years now I’ve become a walking novice wikipedia on tour and rider facts. I know more the average person, and can talk on the subject for at least three hours since that is how long the stage is. After the weekend stages my party continues with friends and making new friends and a general celebration through the night.

This year was different on so many levels and added another layer to my traditional patronage of the tour. The race itself was different because I didn’t know the riders very well, with two new teams and the drug scandals I wasn’t sure who could do what. I also didn’t have any pre-tour favorites other than the American’s and the two new American teams. In addition, my habit of watching the tour at the same venue each night was squashed with my local pub not being very friendly on stage 9 as they wouldn’t turn the channel for me flat out saying 'we don't want to watch cycling tonight'. Other than my foul mood that we had to overcome that evening this caused us to have to jump around in venues and we never quite settled in one spot for the month. This made me agitated and little jumpy on if we would find a place in time to watch the stage each time. We spent one night at my 2007 venue whom bought me a drink on the house and smiled when they handed me the remote and a shake of the head –‘has it really been a year?’ Mike the bartender asked. In looking back it was a good thing to jump around in venues as it was always different and a different crowd. The addition of being car(e)free this year also added to the uncertainty of the tour. Lizzie- the cuz and my now infamous tour ’08 sidekick was a great compadre to this adventure. She was always game for helping to conquer the logistics and being determined to not drive and drink. We traveled the city by foot, bike, car and cab to endure multi-neighborhood escapades looking for the perfect venues. We took full celebratory advantage and ambitiously enjoyed the festivities of the epic journey throughout the entire month. It will go down in history as quite possibly the most fun tour celebration on American soil, ever.

With that said I am glad it has come to close, as I physically need to recover and re-coop and get on with my normal daily life. Every year I need those two rest days as much as the riders do by the time they roll around. And now being the day after the Champs Elyees my quads burned from over 350 miles pedaled this month myself, liquor shocking my system, bar food clogging my arteries and toasted legs from a loooong night of dancing to celebrate after stage 20. As I struggled in my morning commute I could only laugh to myself as I thought about how bad the young riders that just completed their first Tour de France must be feeling this morning. The media did several video interviews on how the Monday after the tour the riders almost feel lost and in shock. They say it is because the routine just evaporates after so much effort and excitement day after day for 23 days straight, and their bodies are shot. I feel my own version of this even though the reality is that what I feel is nothing in comparison. The websites and live ticker haven’t changed since yesterday, even though I keep checking. I am still not 100% focused as I feel melancholy after such an intense month is suddenly over and the compounded adrenaline has left my body just as I was getting used to it.

Even this morning as a few of the people that I have chatted with at work about the tour, tried to make small talk with me about the outcome I felt overly emotional and defensive. It is not like football or baseball which is straight forward- the tour has so many intricate angles to how and why it is won the way it is won. I will defend team CSC in their victory because Silence Lotto did not protect or fight for their leader in the same way CSC did. Carlos won because his team *worked* for him and after 3,554 kilometers he was less exhausted than the time trial ‘expert’ Cadel, and Carlos deserved it entirely. He rode smart and his team was stronger. He is a strong climber and with a tactical team in combination with his 8 years of TdF experience- to bring up possibilities of doping today with me is very irritating. It was truly exceptional the way the two new American teams rode, with so many young riders at their first tour. Between the 5 stage wins of Columbia and Garmin-Chipolete’s Christian Vande Velde taking 5th place in the GC it was an incredibly successful American Tour de France. I am very proud to be a fan.

Saturday night for stage 20 Lizzie and I opened that bottle of Prosecco before we headed out for another epic evening of celebration. We cheer’sed to the tour and our favorite American riders. It was appropriate that the champagne glasses and empty bottle were there for me on Sunday morning when I got home. It was a good reminder that the month has come full circle and it is time to return to my daily life that I love, just like the riders will do, and prepare for what is next on the schedule.
Many of the riders have the Olympics to prepare and look forward to.
Lizzie starts a new job this week.
I have Matt coming home in just 20 days.
Viva la Tour!