My sister Lizzy is a statistics professor at BYU. One of the perks of this position is that she can take classes at the university for free.
This semester she took a swimming class. I read this story on her blog today and I thought it was funny, so I'm posting it here for all my friends to read too. (The stipulation was that I have to plug her blog. Click here. Read Lizzy's blog.)
During role call, the teacher called her name.
Another student in the class heard her name and said, "Neeley? Are you related to a statistics professor Neeley?"
She said, "I am the statistics professor Neeley."
The student said, "Oh. I'm in your class..... You look different in your bathing suit."
Awkward.
Friday, December 18, 2009
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
unintentional prank calls
When I was home helping out with the move last week (see previous post) my mom was trying to get a hold of my dad. Dad stayed behind at the new place and is notorious for being hard to get a hold of since he never has his cell phone on*. The new house is close by grandma's house and dad's two brothers' houses (and families) and mom and tried unsuccessfully to get a hold of him there.
So, mom told me to try the house again to see if dad was there now. I verified the phone number with her and dialled. This was the conversation that occurred:
Some woman answering the phone: Hello? (Note: I did not think it was surprising to hear a woman's voice since there are so many relatives close by that are hanging around at any given moment, and it would be just like dad to have someone else answer.)
Me (without thinking, see above parentetical statement): Have you found dad yet?
Some woman: Um, my father has been gone for 8 years.
Me thinking: Oh crap.
Me speaking: Oh my gosh! I'm so sorry, I must have the wrong number!
Some woman: Yeah, it sounds like it.
Awkwardness, followed by some kind of, "well, bye then" followed by a quick hang up.
Me: Mom! What the freak! You said that was the right number. [rattles back number I dialed]
Mom: Oh, no, that should have been a 4, not a 5. Let me try it.... (She was able to get a hold of dad.)
The bright side is that at least the woman hadn't lost her father 8 days ago. That would have been just plain mean. Lesson learned for me is that if I don't recognize a voice on the phone, don't just plow ahead and ask my question anyway.
Subject change: I saw this and I guess there is hope for me after all.
*Mom, dad and a couple siblings have a family cell phone plan and dad was in the shop one day helping someone get a new phone or something. The cell phone guy told dad that from now on he has to use his cell phone at least one minute a month because he's the primary name on the account. Dad had not been using his cell phone at least ONE MINUTE a month!
So, mom told me to try the house again to see if dad was there now. I verified the phone number with her and dialled. This was the conversation that occurred:
Some woman answering the phone: Hello? (Note: I did not think it was surprising to hear a woman's voice since there are so many relatives close by that are hanging around at any given moment, and it would be just like dad to have someone else answer.)
Me (without thinking, see above parentetical statement): Have you found dad yet?
Some woman: Um, my father has been gone for 8 years.
Me thinking: Oh crap.
Me speaking: Oh my gosh! I'm so sorry, I must have the wrong number!
Some woman: Yeah, it sounds like it.
Awkwardness, followed by some kind of, "well, bye then" followed by a quick hang up.
Me: Mom! What the freak! You said that was the right number. [rattles back number I dialed]
Mom: Oh, no, that should have been a 4, not a 5. Let me try it.... (She was able to get a hold of dad.)
The bright side is that at least the woman hadn't lost her father 8 days ago. That would have been just plain mean. Lesson learned for me is that if I don't recognize a voice on the phone, don't just plow ahead and ask my question anyway.
Subject change: I saw this and I guess there is hope for me after all.
*Mom, dad and a couple siblings have a family cell phone plan and dad was in the shop one day helping someone get a new phone or something. The cell phone guy told dad that from now on he has to use his cell phone at least one minute a month because he's the primary name on the account. Dad had not been using his cell phone at least ONE MINUTE a month!
Monday, December 14, 2009
one man's trash.... is still trash sometimes
My parents finished moving out of their old house this week - the house I grew up in. It was a little sad because we all love that house so much. There's nothing to really hold us to Fremont anymore, and I whenever I went up there, I usually didn't even go anywhere except maybe to Arby's, but it still will be a change for everyone.
(Aside: I like their new house, most especially because it has an upstairs. One of those weird quirks about me is that for some reason I don't really like sleeping on the ground floor (or basement). I guess I'm an elf and not a hobbit.)
To help my parents, Lizzy, Big Brother and I went home. Thursday, the movers came and packed everything up and hauled it away and we cleaned the whole house.
Part of the cleaning process was hauling a bunch of junk out to the curb for garbage collection. And I mean a bunch. And it was nice and cold - 15 degrees and windy - so it was the perfect day for that. My mom really wanted to give the garbage man a tip and she was paranoid that she'd miss him, so we took shifts watching out the window for the garbage truck.
We saw some interesting things while we were waiting. Before that day, I never realized how much attraction a huge pile of garbage can hold for some people. It was amazing how many people stopped and looked through it. And how much people actually took away. We had four grotty mattresses (two that had belonged to my grandparents when they were first married) and two rusty old bicycles that were hauled away. Not to mention countless other junk. Our across the street neighbor came over twice in his cammo pants to look through stuff. Once he had his whole head in a garbage bag looking through stuff. The thing is, some of the trash out there was really trash - food from the refrigerator, the used vacuum bag, broken things, etc. I just wonder if any of that got hauled away.
And of course, we all watched the goings on from our windows. Whoever was on watch would call the other siblings over and we would secretly cheer on the scavengers and encourage them to take things. I believe the movers thought we were crazy, but we enjoyed it.
I was able to snap a few pictures for your enjoyment as well. Sorry about the tree in the way. And a the window screen in a few of them.
(Aside: I like their new house, most especially because it has an upstairs. One of those weird quirks about me is that for some reason I don't really like sleeping on the ground floor (or basement). I guess I'm an elf and not a hobbit.)
To help my parents, Lizzy, Big Brother and I went home. Thursday, the movers came and packed everything up and hauled it away and we cleaned the whole house.
Part of the cleaning process was hauling a bunch of junk out to the curb for garbage collection. And I mean a bunch. And it was nice and cold - 15 degrees and windy - so it was the perfect day for that. My mom really wanted to give the garbage man a tip and she was paranoid that she'd miss him, so we took shifts watching out the window for the garbage truck.
We saw some interesting things while we were waiting. Before that day, I never realized how much attraction a huge pile of garbage can hold for some people. It was amazing how many people stopped and looked through it. And how much people actually took away. We had four grotty mattresses (two that had belonged to my grandparents when they were first married) and two rusty old bicycles that were hauled away. Not to mention countless other junk. Our across the street neighbor came over twice in his cammo pants to look through stuff. Once he had his whole head in a garbage bag looking through stuff. The thing is, some of the trash out there was really trash - food from the refrigerator, the used vacuum bag, broken things, etc. I just wonder if any of that got hauled away.
And of course, we all watched the goings on from our windows. Whoever was on watch would call the other siblings over and we would secretly cheer on the scavengers and encourage them to take things. I believe the movers thought we were crazy, but we enjoyed it.
I was able to snap a few pictures for your enjoyment as well. Sorry about the tree in the way. And a the window screen in a few of them.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
i got the black lung pop. *cough*
I have some good news or bad news for you, depending on how you feel about me. It turns out that I am mortal after all. Remember how much I make fun of some of you for getting sick all the time? It turns out karma is a cuss* and I finally got what was coming to me.
The timeline:
Sunday November 29: I had a bit of a tickle in my throat and I was really tired.
Monday: I woke up with a dreadful sore throat. I called into work sick. (Only the 2nd time in my life I've done that.) I went to the doctor and I didn't have strep, so I went home and tried to sleep it off.
Tuesday: I didn't have a fever, so I went to work even though my throat was still a bit sore and I was really tired. I left about an hour early and went home to take a nap.
Wednesday: I was feeling better and I went to work no problems.
Thursday: The coughing began.
Friday: I just couldn't stop coughing. I went to work, but I think everyone was a little annoyed by my constant coughing. At one point I was a little afraid I was going to throw up I was coughing so hard. So I went to the bathroom. By now there were tears streaming down my face from the coughing. There was a lady in the bathroom looking at me like I was insane - like I was a crazy girl coming into the bathroom to cry after a breakup or something. I left work early.
Saturday: I didn't sleep very well because of the cough. When I woke up, I my voice was gone. I had to turn down an invitation for a cold weather run with the Werewolf. (I actually do love cold weather running.) (Any running, really.) I had to give my symphony tickets away to Rocket Boy. I had to turn down an invitation from Guy Montag to a chili cook-off. I did still go to dinner for the Constant Gardener's send off (he's getting married on Friday), but it was hard because no one could hear me when I talked to them.
Sunday: Voice still mostly gone, but getting better. The Werewolf and Legolas took full advantage by trying to make me mad on purpose, knowing I couldn't retaliate.
Monday: After a better night's sleep, I'm feeling better. I went to work and I didn't have any coughing fits. On the drive home, I did (tears and all), but I made it home safely. Plus, I could talk again.
Today: Still a bit of a tickle in the back of my throat, but it seems like things have mostly worked themselves out.
I'm sorry to people who get sick like that every year. Or even more than once a year. It's an awful way to go through life. I'll try to be more sympathetic in the future.
ps. One of the funny things about losing my voice was seeing how many people would whisper to me when we were talking. It's okay friend - just because I can't talk doesn't mean you can't.
*Go see Fantastic Mr. Fox. You'll thank me later.
The timeline:
Sunday November 29: I had a bit of a tickle in my throat and I was really tired.
Monday: I woke up with a dreadful sore throat. I called into work sick. (Only the 2nd time in my life I've done that.) I went to the doctor and I didn't have strep, so I went home and tried to sleep it off.
Tuesday: I didn't have a fever, so I went to work even though my throat was still a bit sore and I was really tired. I left about an hour early and went home to take a nap.
Wednesday: I was feeling better and I went to work no problems.
Thursday: The coughing began.
Friday: I just couldn't stop coughing. I went to work, but I think everyone was a little annoyed by my constant coughing. At one point I was a little afraid I was going to throw up I was coughing so hard. So I went to the bathroom. By now there were tears streaming down my face from the coughing. There was a lady in the bathroom looking at me like I was insane - like I was a crazy girl coming into the bathroom to cry after a breakup or something. I left work early.
Saturday: I didn't sleep very well because of the cough. When I woke up, I my voice was gone. I had to turn down an invitation for a cold weather run with the Werewolf. (I actually do love cold weather running.) (Any running, really.) I had to give my symphony tickets away to Rocket Boy. I had to turn down an invitation from Guy Montag to a chili cook-off. I did still go to dinner for the Constant Gardener's send off (he's getting married on Friday), but it was hard because no one could hear me when I talked to them.
Sunday: Voice still mostly gone, but getting better. The Werewolf and Legolas took full advantage by trying to make me mad on purpose, knowing I couldn't retaliate.
Monday: After a better night's sleep, I'm feeling better. I went to work and I didn't have any coughing fits. On the drive home, I did (tears and all), but I made it home safely. Plus, I could talk again.
Today: Still a bit of a tickle in the back of my throat, but it seems like things have mostly worked themselves out.
I'm sorry to people who get sick like that every year. Or even more than once a year. It's an awful way to go through life. I'll try to be more sympathetic in the future.
*Go see Fantastic Mr. Fox. You'll thank me later.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
the joy of painting, with bob ross
As you may or may not by aware, my parents are in the process of moving to Pittsburgh. They're retired now and don't have anything to hold them in our old home town. My dad's mother and two brothers (and families) live there, so it seemed like a good choice. (Thank heaven they aren't one of those couples who feels the need to retire to Utah.)
Well, they sold the house I grew up in. (Mom told me to pray and also told me to stop swearing so my prayers would be effective, but I didn't stop and the first people who looked at the house bought it. Hmmm....) They bought a new house about five minutes' drive from grandma and the uncles. So this weekend, the lot fell to my sister, Jane, and I to paint. (Luckily, we also had loads of help from various aunts, uncles and cousins.)
Mom wanted us to paint the ceiling. So we did. About five minutes into the job, I realized that I should probably tape a section of the ceiling that I didn't want to paint. Unfortunately, I forgot that I just painted an area of ceiling right by where I was taping and I accidentally ran my whole head across that area. Brilliant, I know. The result was this:
Yeah, Cruella DeVil if I ever saw it. The pictures don't really do justice to how much paint was in my hair. Everyone was joking all day long that I'd turned into an old lady. That night I washed my hair three times and then spent about half an hour just picking paint out of my hair. Then my mom spent about half an hour picking paint out of my hair. And today (five days later) I'm still finding little flecks of white in my hair that need picking out. Oh dear.
In other painting news, I just want to post this picture of my friend Josh. He always has the best Halloween costumes. I heart you, you bloody bastard, and I always will.
Well, they sold the house I grew up in. (Mom told me to pray and also told me to stop swearing so my prayers would be effective, but I didn't stop and the first people who looked at the house bought it. Hmmm....) They bought a new house about five minutes' drive from grandma and the uncles. So this weekend, the lot fell to my sister, Jane, and I to paint. (Luckily, we also had loads of help from various aunts, uncles and cousins.)
Mom wanted us to paint the ceiling. So we did. About five minutes into the job, I realized that I should probably tape a section of the ceiling that I didn't want to paint. Unfortunately, I forgot that I just painted an area of ceiling right by where I was taping and I accidentally ran my whole head across that area. Brilliant, I know. The result was this:
Yeah, Cruella DeVil if I ever saw it. The pictures don't really do justice to how much paint was in my hair. Everyone was joking all day long that I'd turned into an old lady. That night I washed my hair three times and then spent about half an hour just picking paint out of my hair. Then my mom spent about half an hour picking paint out of my hair. And today (five days later) I'm still finding little flecks of white in my hair that need picking out. Oh dear.
In other painting news, I just want to post this picture of my friend Josh. He always has the best Halloween costumes. I heart you, you bloody bastard, and I always will.
Monday, November 23, 2009
keeping my guardian angels busy
Most of us think we're pretty good drivers. I know I'm not that great. As I was driving home from Cleveland the other day I realize that I've done lots of things that I probably shouldn't. For your reading pleasure, here's a list of things that I've done in the past (I definitely don't do any of these things any more, I swear) but only when I've been alone. I do try to be a little safer when I have others in the car, though only because I'm embarrassed to do these things in front of others probably.
- Call and text people. I think that almost everyone does this. Come on, I know you have, just admit it. (Aside: the other day I was texting Legolas while driving and I accidently told him, "I'll son you soon" instead of "I'll see you soon." You know 866 instead of 833. Awkward. Luckily he didn't take me up on it.)
- Eat. I think everyone has eaten in the car too. I've made fry sauce while driving.
- Change clothes. I bet a good percentage of people have done this while driving too. I've done this so many times. Occasionally I've changed from top to bottom, including putting on tights and changing my shirt.
- Sit cross legged. Just on long trips. I mostly stopped doing this when I realized I couldn't stop in a hurry if I needed to.
- I wear my sunglasses at night. I just wanted to see what it was like. And then I forgot I was wearing them and I kept them on for about half an hour.
- Don't defrost the wind shield. When I was in high school I sometimes didn't scrape at all. I'd just look out the little patch of visible glass at the very base of the wind shield until the whole thing was defrosted as I drove to school.
- Read. Did you doubt it?
- Take pictures and videos. Sometimes you just see the coolest things when driving. Or I'll record odometer milestones. I took a video in the snowstorm I was in while driving to Ohio so people would know how awful it was.
So, yeah, it's pretty much a miracle I'm still alive. It probably doesn't make you feel safer knowing that there's people like me out there on the road. Just smile for the camera!
- Call and text people. I think that almost everyone does this. Come on, I know you have, just admit it. (Aside: the other day I was texting Legolas while driving and I accidently told him, "I'll son you soon" instead of "I'll see you soon." You know 866 instead of 833. Awkward. Luckily he didn't take me up on it.)
- Eat. I think everyone has eaten in the car too. I've made fry sauce while driving.
- Change clothes. I bet a good percentage of people have done this while driving too. I've done this so many times. Occasionally I've changed from top to bottom, including putting on tights and changing my shirt.
- Sit cross legged. Just on long trips. I mostly stopped doing this when I realized I couldn't stop in a hurry if I needed to.
- I wear my sunglasses at night. I just wanted to see what it was like. And then I forgot I was wearing them and I kept them on for about half an hour.
- Don't defrost the wind shield. When I was in high school I sometimes didn't scrape at all. I'd just look out the little patch of visible glass at the very base of the wind shield until the whole thing was defrosted as I drove to school.
- Read. Did you doubt it?
- Take pictures and videos. Sometimes you just see the coolest things when driving. Or I'll record odometer milestones. I took a video in the snowstorm I was in while driving to Ohio so people would know how awful it was.
So, yeah, it's pretty much a miracle I'm still alive. It probably doesn't make you feel safer knowing that there's people like me out there on the road. Just smile for the camera!
Thursday, November 19, 2009
don't worry, i've got your back
My friend the Werewolf works in a research lab. He goes in a couple of nights a week to feed baby mice until they die and then he takes out their intestines for research. I know it sounds kind of gruesome, but the research team is trying to figure out ways to keep babies born prematurely alive. (According to the Werewolf, the number one killer of premature babies is intestinal tract infections.)
He tells me that he's often there alone at night and sometimes it gets a little eerie. Being the good friend that I am, I made him this helpful list.
Ways the Werewolf could die while in the lab:
He tells me that he's often there alone at night and sometimes it gets a little eerie. Being the good friend that I am, I made him this helpful list.
Ways the Werewolf could die while in the lab:
- rat escapes and bites his face off
- someone mugs him while he's walking to his car
- genetically altered mice revolt
- bit by sick baby legolas* while feeding it
- contaminated by baby legolas blood after it dies
- peta activists invade
- racing downstairs so he's not late and trips
- stuck in the elevator
- poisonous snakes in the air vents
- bubonic plauge
- heart attack
- overheating
- computer/radio short causing electrocution
- equipment malfunction
- stabbed with needle
- raptor attack
- accidental cut with unsanitary dissecting instruments
- pass out from the fumes and hit his head
- stuck in the dead rat freezer
- vivarium fire
- something falls on him in the construction zone
- tarantula in a rat suit
- mutant shark attack
- poisonous spider bite
- rabies from mice
- building suddenly sinks into the earth
- natural disaster: tornado, earthquake, tsunami
- fire ant infestation
- contracts the swine flu from coworker
- boredom
- pass out from not eating
- security guard misunderstanding
- paper shredder accident
- zombies get in from the hospital
- zombie mice from the dead rat freezer
- lyme disease
- bit by sick baby legolas* while feeding it
- contaminated by baby legolas blood after it dies
- peta activists invade
- racing downstairs so he's not late and trips
- stuck in the elevator
- poisonous snakes in the air vents
- bubonic plauge
- heart attack
- overheating
- computer/radio short causing electrocution
- equipment malfunction
- stabbed with needle
- raptor attack
- accidental cut with unsanitary dissecting instruments
- pass out from the fumes and hit his head
- stuck in the dead rat freezer
- vivarium fire
- something falls on him in the construction zone
- tarantula in a rat suit
- mutant shark attack
- poisonous spider bite
- rabies from mice
- building suddenly sinks into the earth
- natural disaster: tornado, earthquake, tsunami
- fire ant infestation
- contracts the swine flu from coworker
- boredom
- pass out from not eating
- security guard misunderstanding
- paper shredder accident
- zombies get in from the hospital
- zombie mice from the dead rat freezer
- lyme disease
- going blind from exploding rat guts
- did i mention raptor attack?
- did i mention raptor attack?
*I once asked the Werewolf if he named his baby mice and he said he didn't because it would be too sad when they died, plus he couldn't really tell them apart anyway. So I convinced him to call them all Legolas**. Sometime when I talk to him about work I just ask how the little Legolases are doing.
**Legolas's real name, not actually "Legolas".
Thursday, November 12, 2009
i can't think of a title for this post
According to the Brothers Bloom, the best con is one in which everyone involved thinks they get what they want. This post doesn't apply to cons, but it does apply to everyone getting what they want.
As you may or may not be aware, Scout was married last Saturday. My original plan for my apartment when Scout left was to turn her room into my library. As time went on, however, I became aware that I didn't really want to live alone. And one day, I was thinking about this and I thought, "I wonder if Scarlet would enjoy living here." About a month later, I was at a party with Scartlet (and others) and I just decided to ask her. She had been living at home, so I wasn't sure that she'd be enamoured with the idea, seeing as she'd be saving money by not living with me, but I figure what could be the harm in asking.
(Aside: this is how I usually recieve spiritual promtings. I have ideas that seem like good ideas and I act on them without thinking about them too much.)
Well, she was all for it. Even more than I expected. I guess she currently shares a room with her sister and she wanted some more space before she starts school back up in January. Plus, the added benefit of living with me. So she said yes in a New York minute.
The funny thing is, Scarlet thinks I'm doing her a favor. Last night she started moving some of her stuff in and she thanked me (again) for inviting her to live with me. But in reality, I think it's her that's doing me a favor. I get a roommate who is sweet and easy going. It will save me money and sanity. When I live alone I do crazy things like talk to myself out loud (more than usual). And I don't like looking out the blinds because what if there is an alien with poison gas leaking out its fingers waiting for me out there? And don't get me started on the basement. Who know what crazy stuff lives down there when I'm alone? And I do other crazy things like wear hats like this around the house all day.
And the first night that Scout was gone there was a ginormous spider just hanging in front of my door. Just hanging there! And I'm not kidding when I say it was ginormous. It was at least as big as my thumb. If I had a roommate at the time, I could have called her to let me in the back door (which is barred most of the time). But as it was, I was trapped. Luckily, Legolas was in the neighborhood, and I had him come rescue me, so I didn't have to sleep outside.
So you see, it's mutually beneficial. Scarlet thinks she's getting the better end of the deal, but I think I'm really lucking out here too. It's a win win win situation.
As you may or may not be aware, Scout was married last Saturday. My original plan for my apartment when Scout left was to turn her room into my library. As time went on, however, I became aware that I didn't really want to live alone. And one day, I was thinking about this and I thought, "I wonder if Scarlet would enjoy living here." About a month later, I was at a party with Scartlet (and others) and I just decided to ask her. She had been living at home, so I wasn't sure that she'd be enamoured with the idea, seeing as she'd be saving money by not living with me, but I figure what could be the harm in asking.
(Aside: this is how I usually recieve spiritual promtings. I have ideas that seem like good ideas and I act on them without thinking about them too much.)
Well, she was all for it. Even more than I expected. I guess she currently shares a room with her sister and she wanted some more space before she starts school back up in January. Plus, the added benefit of living with me. So she said yes in a New York minute.
The funny thing is, Scarlet thinks I'm doing her a favor. Last night she started moving some of her stuff in and she thanked me (again) for inviting her to live with me. But in reality, I think it's her that's doing me a favor. I get a roommate who is sweet and easy going. It will save me money and sanity. When I live alone I do crazy things like talk to myself out loud (more than usual). And I don't like looking out the blinds because what if there is an alien with poison gas leaking out its fingers waiting for me out there? And don't get me started on the basement. Who know what crazy stuff lives down there when I'm alone? And I do other crazy things like wear hats like this around the house all day.
And the first night that Scout was gone there was a ginormous spider just hanging in front of my door. Just hanging there! And I'm not kidding when I say it was ginormous. It was at least as big as my thumb. If I had a roommate at the time, I could have called her to let me in the back door (which is barred most of the time). But as it was, I was trapped. Luckily, Legolas was in the neighborhood, and I had him come rescue me, so I didn't have to sleep outside.
So you see, it's mutually beneficial. Scarlet thinks she's getting the better end of the deal, but I think I'm really lucking out here too. It's a win win win situation.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
it's not you, it's me
A few weeks ago, I was talking to a guy at work about how much I love "30 Rock". (It is seriously funny - go check it out.) He told me that "Community" was better. Rather than fight it out, we both agreed to watch the other's show and talk about them.
Since that time, he has watched every single episode in all four seasons of "30 Rock". Me? I have watched zero episodes the eight total episodes currently out of "Community". It's not that I don't want to. I do. I like laughing and finding things to laugh at. I've even put "watch community" on my to-do list several days, but to no avail. It's just that I really honestly and truly forget to watch it every time I might have time to do so. When I have just a bit of spare time I almost never think, "I should watch some tv." I don't have cable - I just have rabbit ears - so why would I go sit in front of the tv for four stations? (Answer: I wouldn't.) And since I'm out of practice watching tv on my actual tv, I forget that I can watch tv online sans commercials.
I'm not one of those self-righteous people that thinks I'm awesome for not watching much tv or who looks down on you for watching. Sometimes I wish I watched more tv. There's some good shows out there. And I like knowing what other people are talking about. And it's fun to quote.
Most of the time I can't even tell you what else I'm doing. Reading for sure. And running. (Though now that it gets dark at 5:30, it's harder to run because I can't run safely outside and treadmill running makes me crazy. I really have to work myself up to go running on a treadmill.) (Aside: if anyone likes running outside at night in cold weather and will be my body guard, there is currently an opening.) And... hanging out with people? Who knows.
I think I'm just better at watching stuff if I'm with people. I feel like I'm being social even if we're just all sitting and watching the same thing together. (This is probably because I talk during shows, so I do feel like I'm being social.)
Mostly I feel badly because I feel like I'm not fulfilling my promises. I have several videos that I've borrowed from people that I haven't gotten around to watching yet. Plus my Netflix. And now "Community". But, it's on my to-do list, so I'm sure I'll get to it this week...
Since that time, he has watched every single episode in all four seasons of "30 Rock". Me? I have watched zero episodes the eight total episodes currently out of "Community". It's not that I don't want to. I do. I like laughing and finding things to laugh at. I've even put "watch community" on my to-do list several days, but to no avail. It's just that I really honestly and truly forget to watch it every time I might have time to do so. When I have just a bit of spare time I almost never think, "I should watch some tv." I don't have cable - I just have rabbit ears - so why would I go sit in front of the tv for four stations? (Answer: I wouldn't.) And since I'm out of practice watching tv on my actual tv, I forget that I can watch tv online sans commercials.
I'm not one of those self-righteous people that thinks I'm awesome for not watching much tv or who looks down on you for watching. Sometimes I wish I watched more tv. There's some good shows out there. And I like knowing what other people are talking about. And it's fun to quote.
Most of the time I can't even tell you what else I'm doing. Reading for sure. And running. (Though now that it gets dark at 5:30, it's harder to run because I can't run safely outside and treadmill running makes me crazy. I really have to work myself up to go running on a treadmill.) (Aside: if anyone likes running outside at night in cold weather and will be my body guard, there is currently an opening.) And... hanging out with people? Who knows.
I think I'm just better at watching stuff if I'm with people. I feel like I'm being social even if we're just all sitting and watching the same thing together. (This is probably because I talk during shows, so I do feel like I'm being social.)
Mostly I feel badly because I feel like I'm not fulfilling my promises. I have several videos that I've borrowed from people that I haven't gotten around to watching yet. Plus my Netflix. And now "Community". But, it's on my to-do list, so I'm sure I'll get to it this week...
Friday, November 6, 2009
we heart drew
My sister Elizabeth is doing a triathlon this weekend to benefit her friend Drew who has cancer. Should you feel so inclined, you can look him up on his blog and donate to his cause.
drew
Go Liz!
drew
Go Liz!
Sunday, November 1, 2009
earrings and things
The back story: For Halloween, I wore a track suit, loads of makeup, big "Utah" hair, high heels, bangles and huge hoop earrings. Then, a name tag that said "your mom". I'm not going to lie, it was pretty hot.
The story: The earrings I wore came with two other, smaller pairs. I decided to wear the smallest of the three to church.
At the beginning of Sunday School, before separating for classes, each organization makes announcements for what they have coming up. This week it was Legolas's turn to make the announcement for the activities committee. Before he got up, a member of my committee asked if she could say something about break the fast when I gave the announcement. I told her it was Legolas's turn, but that she still could. Well, when he stood up to give the announcement - he wasn't close to me (for once) - and I tried to get his attention so I could tell him that this girl needed to say something.
Mid-announcement, Legolas said, "Hold on, kristin is trying to say something to me, but I'm being distracted by her huge hoops." Half the ward turned around to look at me and I got many compliments throughout the day on my lovely earrings.
Later, Guy Montag came up to me and asked what the deal was with my big lips. I must have had a confused look on my face because he said, "You know, what Legolas was distracted by?" I told him Legolas said "hoops" not "lips". Guy said that I should make sure that's what people thought he said because it sure sounded like lips to him.
He was not the only one who misheard. On the drive home, Scout told me that another (male) member of the ward thought that Legolas said "boobs". (Of course, one look at me, and you know I've got nothing that could be considered distracting in that area.)
I guess the take away here is to be careful of the words you use when describing other people in front of the whole ward.
The story: The earrings I wore came with two other, smaller pairs. I decided to wear the smallest of the three to church.
At the beginning of Sunday School, before separating for classes, each organization makes announcements for what they have coming up. This week it was Legolas's turn to make the announcement for the activities committee. Before he got up, a member of my committee asked if she could say something about break the fast when I gave the announcement. I told her it was Legolas's turn, but that she still could. Well, when he stood up to give the announcement - he wasn't close to me (for once) - and I tried to get his attention so I could tell him that this girl needed to say something.
Mid-announcement, Legolas said, "Hold on, kristin is trying to say something to me, but I'm being distracted by her huge hoops." Half the ward turned around to look at me and I got many compliments throughout the day on my lovely earrings.
Later, Guy Montag came up to me and asked what the deal was with my big lips. I must have had a confused look on my face because he said, "You know, what Legolas was distracted by?" I told him Legolas said "hoops" not "lips". Guy said that I should make sure that's what people thought he said because it sure sounded like lips to him.
He was not the only one who misheard. On the drive home, Scout told me that another (male) member of the ward thought that Legolas said "boobs". (Of course, one look at me, and you know I've got nothing that could be considered distracting in that area.)
I guess the take away here is to be careful of the words you use when describing other people in front of the whole ward.
Friday, October 30, 2009
benjamin scott folds
Wednesday night, Lady MacBeth and I headed to glorious downtown Columbus for a Ben Folds concert. It wasn't your typical Ben Folds concert. (Or so I'm told - I've never actually seen Ben live before.) It wasn't even on the tour dates list of his current tour. The difference was that instead of playing with a band, he played with the Columbus Symphony. They still played all his songs, but arranged for orchestra. Some of the songs were just lovely and the rest were freaking awesome. I don't know who could have come up with such a great idea, but I really liked it.
I think one of the reasons that I like Ben so much is that he actually studied music. He really can rock out on the piano. He knows the chord progressions and the modes and all that. And he's totally amazing at it. You've heard his songs on the radio, no doubt. But he is even better than that. And he loves performing, you can tell. He really caters to the crowd. After the program was finished, he dismissed the orchestra and just played a few of his songs on the piano by himself and it was still awesome.
(Side note: the opening "band" was an acapella group from Ohio University called the Leading Tones. I wonder what they resolve to! Ha ha! Get it? Anyone... no? ...chirp chirp....)
Point being, if you ever get the chance to see Ben Folds performing live, I highly recommend it. Especially with an orchestra.
I think one of the reasons that I like Ben so much is that he actually studied music. He really can rock out on the piano. He knows the chord progressions and the modes and all that. And he's totally amazing at it. You've heard his songs on the radio, no doubt. But he is even better than that. And he loves performing, you can tell. He really caters to the crowd. After the program was finished, he dismissed the orchestra and just played a few of his songs on the piano by himself and it was still awesome.
(Side note: the opening "band" was an acapella group from Ohio University called the Leading Tones. I wonder what they resolve to! Ha ha! Get it? Anyone... no? ...chirp chirp....)
Point being, if you ever get the chance to see Ben Folds performing live, I highly recommend it. Especially with an orchestra.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
the best medicine
Last night I fell asleep with all my bedroom lights on (again). I woke myself up by laughing at something in my dream. Now that is a pleasant way to wake up.
And a post from my favorite cartoonist's blog: (since we're in marriage week, it seems.)
the secret of a long marriage
And a post from my favorite cartoonist's blog: (since we're in marriage week, it seems.)
the secret of a long marriage
Monday, October 26, 2009
just when i thought i was in a safe place
Remember my last post? Okay, fine, so maybe sometimes I bring it upon myself.
Last Saturday I went to the temple with Legolas. (Yes, Braden, I am temple worthy and I go. So there.) In the Columbus temple, you have to make appointments for everything you do. By the time we were making appointments, the only thing available was sealings. Well, I enjoy sealings, and temple work is temple work, right? Right. So we went.
I should have known better.
It started out when I ran into a woman from my home branch. We chatted for a bit and then I said I needed to get off to the sealing room. She raised her eyebrows in surprise and then gave me a knowing smile. I didn't know how to respond, so I just went my way.
When we were there, the sealer went around asking for last names. There were two couples besides Legolas and me. The sealer asked for Legolas's last name, and I could tell he was going to go on before asking me, so I just piped up with, "And my last name is Neeley."
"Oh!" he said, surprised. He consulted his list of names. "We do have a Sister Neeley on the list. I guess that's why you should never assume anything, right?" Right.
We had to wait a few minutes for someone to come in so one of the other couples asked us about ourselves. I said I was a native of Ohio. Legolas said he was originally from Utah, but he'd moved to Ohio for dental school.
"Oh!" said the sealer, knowingly. "I bet that's not the only reason you were supposed to come out here." He looked pointedly at me. I didn't know what to say. It didn't seem like the time or place to tell him that Legolas and I were just friends. (Sometimes boys and girls can just be friends. I know! It's true!) We just let it slide.
Another temple worker came into the room to help out. The sealer was telling him about the people in the room and then he said, looking at Legolas and me, "And we get to do some practice sealings today!" I turned my head and laughed. Still we didn't know what to say.
After the session was over, the sealer came to talk to Legolas and me. He must of noticed that we didn't hold hands and the general lack of googaly-ness on our part and perhaps he thought it was his fault. He apologized for saying we were doing practice sealings and hoped we weren't mad. Of course we weren't - we thought it was pretty funny. That eased his mind. But I'm sure he still went home to his wife and told her how wonderful it was that young people these days were going on dates to the sealing room of the temple.
We were able to leave the temple without further incident.
We were able to leave the temple without further incident.
Friday, October 23, 2009
on spinsterhood
I'm sorry if this sounds more bitter than I intend.
First, I'll start out with a test for you:
In many of my posts on here, I mention my friend, Legolas. I've known him for about two years. We hang out quite a bit and I consider him to be one of my dearest friends. I would say I usually see him at least five days a week, and sometimes oftener. Recently, as you know, I was called to be the co-chair of the activities committee in my ward, with Legolas as the other co-chair. Last week I found out that Legolas is now my home teacher as well.
If you thought to yourself after reading the above paragraph something along the lines of "she is sure thrown in with Legolas a lot; she is probably going to hook up with him" you failed the test.
To be fair, if you thought that it is most likely because you don't see Legolas and I together a whole lot. If you are from Columbus you probably thought something more along the lines of "Heavenly Father sure is trying to teach kristin patience". I do love Legolas; I do. He just knows me well enough to know how to really make me angry. And he makes me angry on purpose because he thinks it's funny. A marriage to him would be short, and one of us would inevitably end up in prison for murder. (Most likely me as I'm more cunning than him.) (And, he feels the same way, lest you think I'm breaking his heart.)
I've noticed a trend. It seems like married people are the worst offenders when it comes to saying awkward things to me. It's like there's something in the "marrieds only" drinking fountains that makes them forget how it was being single. Married people think that because they got married, they are wise and must help us poor singles who are not wise. There are a few notable exceptions, of course. Mrs. Weasley, Anne of Green Gables and Scout must have taken the vaccine because they seem to remember being single and don't say some of the awful things that other people seem to think are okay. Can I just run through a quick list of things that people really have said to me and why they annoy me? Consider it a public service announcement to my married friends. Are you wondering why your single friends no longer want to talk to you? This could be why.
First off, general statements that I get all the time.
- "You just need to get out there more." Sometimes I think people don't understand that I really do actually want to get married. Yes, I spend my time doing things like travelling and being happy instead of working on my hope chest, but I would honstely and truly love this blessing in my life. I'm not actively avoiding men. I go to church, to FHE, to institute, to parties, to ward activites, etc. And I even talk to people while I'm there. I'm not sure what else you want me to do. (Though, I'm sure you've got some great ideas you could share with me.) I do skip Sunday School sometimes. Maybe that's my problem.
- "You're just being too picky." Girls who don't go out every weekend don't feel picky; we feel ugly. And I don't want to just be married - I also want to be happy. My dad always says he'd rather I was single and happy than married and unhappy. If I'd wanted to just be married, I think I could be. Perhaps I'm being cocky, but occasionally men are actually interested in me. But why would I marry someone forever if I know we couldn't be happy together? I realize that everyone has problems in their marriage, but sometimes I know I just couldn't respect someone in that way. That's not being picky - it's being realistic.
- "So, do you have your eye on anyone?" I never answer this question in the affirmative, even if I do. The asker will always want details and then they will always ask you about the young man in questions for the rest of your life along with helpful advice like, "you should invite him over for dinner." Brilliant! No wonder I'm still single - I'm too dumb to think of things like that!
- "Don't worry - you're still young." I hate this. Not only is it condescending, but to quote from one of my favorite books, The Blue Castle by L.M. Montgomery - "Oh, I know. Yes, I'm 'still young' - but that's so different from young." It's like saying, "We haven't quite given up on you yet, but would you hurry up? You don't have much time here!"
And now, non-general statements; things that people have actually said.
- "Are you going to try to get married, or are you going to be an old maid like your sisters?" This statement was made in front of one of my unmarried sisters. Thank you Mr. Tact. I'm pretty sure I told him I was going to be an old maid.
- "You know you're breaking your mother's heart, right?" Now I have the have responsibility for my mom's heartache as well as my own. If only I knew how sad my singleness was making my mother, I would have tired harder. I guess I'm just heartless. Maybe if you have a kitten, I can kick it.
- "If you aren't dating any boys in your ward, maybe you should date a non-member and convert him." This was my grandma's advice. I guess she's given up on me marrying in the church. I don't think she realizes that most people these days expect to have sex before they get married, but other than that, it is a fool proof plan.
- "What if you have been fighting it for so long that one of your little Legolases doesn't get to be born anymore?" This was said to me by one of my friends who thinks I'm just being stubborn about not wanting to date Legolas. I kind of felt like she'd punched me in the stomach. Trust me, I'm acutely aware of my biological clock and it really does worry me that maybe I won't be able to have all the children I'd like.
Again - I'm sorry it sounds like I'm just a bitter old maid. (Maybe I am.) I just think sometimes people don't realize how they sound when they say these things. I feel like when people just want to know about my singleness, that they're condensing my whole life into the one fact that I'm still not married. When you look at it that way, maybe I am a failure. But I've done so many other things in my life, too. It's not like being single is a disease that needs to be fixed. And, yes, I'm sure there are loads of things I could be doing better in my life that would make me more attractive to the opposite sex. But please don't define me by my social status. Deal? Deal.
Whew! Now that I've gotten that off my chest, can I just say, have you seen how good looking Legolas is in his new shirt? I wonder if he'd like to come over for dinner this weekend... I mean, It's not like I'm getting any younger....
First, I'll start out with a test for you:
In many of my posts on here, I mention my friend, Legolas. I've known him for about two years. We hang out quite a bit and I consider him to be one of my dearest friends. I would say I usually see him at least five days a week, and sometimes oftener. Recently, as you know, I was called to be the co-chair of the activities committee in my ward, with Legolas as the other co-chair. Last week I found out that Legolas is now my home teacher as well.
If you thought to yourself after reading the above paragraph something along the lines of "she is sure thrown in with Legolas a lot; she is probably going to hook up with him" you failed the test.
To be fair, if you thought that it is most likely because you don't see Legolas and I together a whole lot. If you are from Columbus you probably thought something more along the lines of "Heavenly Father sure is trying to teach kristin patience". I do love Legolas; I do. He just knows me well enough to know how to really make me angry. And he makes me angry on purpose because he thinks it's funny. A marriage to him would be short, and one of us would inevitably end up in prison for murder. (Most likely me as I'm more cunning than him.) (And, he feels the same way, lest you think I'm breaking his heart.)
I've noticed a trend. It seems like married people are the worst offenders when it comes to saying awkward things to me. It's like there's something in the "marrieds only" drinking fountains that makes them forget how it was being single. Married people think that because they got married, they are wise and must help us poor singles who are not wise. There are a few notable exceptions, of course. Mrs. Weasley, Anne of Green Gables and Scout must have taken the vaccine because they seem to remember being single and don't say some of the awful things that other people seem to think are okay. Can I just run through a quick list of things that people really have said to me and why they annoy me? Consider it a public service announcement to my married friends. Are you wondering why your single friends no longer want to talk to you? This could be why.
First off, general statements that I get all the time.
- "You just need to get out there more." Sometimes I think people don't understand that I really do actually want to get married. Yes, I spend my time doing things like travelling and being happy instead of working on my hope chest, but I would honstely and truly love this blessing in my life. I'm not actively avoiding men. I go to church, to FHE, to institute, to parties, to ward activites, etc. And I even talk to people while I'm there. I'm not sure what else you want me to do. (Though, I'm sure you've got some great ideas you could share with me.) I do skip Sunday School sometimes. Maybe that's my problem.
- "You're just being too picky." Girls who don't go out every weekend don't feel picky; we feel ugly. And I don't want to just be married - I also want to be happy. My dad always says he'd rather I was single and happy than married and unhappy. If I'd wanted to just be married, I think I could be. Perhaps I'm being cocky, but occasionally men are actually interested in me. But why would I marry someone forever if I know we couldn't be happy together? I realize that everyone has problems in their marriage, but sometimes I know I just couldn't respect someone in that way. That's not being picky - it's being realistic.
- "So, do you have your eye on anyone?" I never answer this question in the affirmative, even if I do. The asker will always want details and then they will always ask you about the young man in questions for the rest of your life along with helpful advice like, "you should invite him over for dinner." Brilliant! No wonder I'm still single - I'm too dumb to think of things like that!
- "Don't worry - you're still young." I hate this. Not only is it condescending, but to quote from one of my favorite books, The Blue Castle by L.M. Montgomery - "Oh, I know. Yes, I'm 'still young' - but that's so different from young." It's like saying, "We haven't quite given up on you yet, but would you hurry up? You don't have much time here!"
And now, non-general statements; things that people have actually said.
- "Are you going to try to get married, or are you going to be an old maid like your sisters?" This statement was made in front of one of my unmarried sisters. Thank you Mr. Tact. I'm pretty sure I told him I was going to be an old maid.
- "You know you're breaking your mother's heart, right?" Now I have the have responsibility for my mom's heartache as well as my own. If only I knew how sad my singleness was making my mother, I would have tired harder. I guess I'm just heartless. Maybe if you have a kitten, I can kick it.
- "If you aren't dating any boys in your ward, maybe you should date a non-member and convert him." This was my grandma's advice. I guess she's given up on me marrying in the church. I don't think she realizes that most people these days expect to have sex before they get married, but other than that, it is a fool proof plan.
- "What if you have been fighting it for so long that one of your little Legolases doesn't get to be born anymore?" This was said to me by one of my friends who thinks I'm just being stubborn about not wanting to date Legolas. I kind of felt like she'd punched me in the stomach. Trust me, I'm acutely aware of my biological clock and it really does worry me that maybe I won't be able to have all the children I'd like.
Again - I'm sorry it sounds like I'm just a bitter old maid. (Maybe I am.) I just think sometimes people don't realize how they sound when they say these things. I feel like when people just want to know about my singleness, that they're condensing my whole life into the one fact that I'm still not married. When you look at it that way, maybe I am a failure. But I've done so many other things in my life, too. It's not like being single is a disease that needs to be fixed. And, yes, I'm sure there are loads of things I could be doing better in my life that would make me more attractive to the opposite sex. But please don't define me by my social status. Deal? Deal.
Whew! Now that I've gotten that off my chest, can I just say, have you seen how good looking Legolas is in his new shirt? I wonder if he'd like to come over for dinner this weekend... I mean, It's not like I'm getting any younger....
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
ode to the librarian
One of the most fun things about being in Utah last weekend was seeing my friend, the Librarian, in the flesh. We talk to each other a great deal, but it's always lovely to see your friends in person. (Well, usually it's fun to see your friends in person. But it is always fun to see the Librarian in person.) I think the reason we get along so well is that we are basically the same person - funny, readers, just a little bit inappropriate. (Plus she's a total hottie.) When we're together we just make fun of things the whole time. When we were in the same ward we had to not sit next to each other in sacrament meeting. Because you already know I'm going to be saying inappropriate things and it just makes it worse to have a ready and willing listener and replier.
One of the ways that the Librarian differs from me is in the giving of gifts. She is way better at it than I am. She is just so amazingly creative.
Last summer I recieved this as a prize:
Yeah, it's a gong. No, I'm not telling you what I won it for.
Then for my birthday that year she got me this:
Because what pirate doesn't need a spyglass? I've definitely used it for spying. On ships.
And for Christmas last year:
It's a mug. I'm pretty sure it's made out of a real human skull.
And finally for my birthday this year:
I guess she's trying to make me understand white people better. (Plus she also gave me a book and a pirate pen. She is the only person brave enough to give me books any more. It really is dangerous because I do have an awful lot of books, but she still braves it.)
How does she come up with this stuff? The best I can do usually is a gift card to Barnes and Noble. I'm pretty sure that we'd still be friends even if she wasn't such a great present giver, but I'm pretty worldy, so maybe not. The point is... I hope I can enter another contest with her soon!
One of the ways that the Librarian differs from me is in the giving of gifts. She is way better at it than I am. She is just so amazingly creative.
Last summer I recieved this as a prize:
Then for my birthday that year she got me this:
And for Christmas last year:
And finally for my birthday this year:
How does she come up with this stuff? The best I can do usually is a gift card to Barnes and Noble. I'm pretty sure that we'd still be friends even if she wasn't such a great present giver, but I'm pretty worldy, so maybe not. The point is... I hope I can enter another contest with her soon!
Monday, October 19, 2009
i'm in love with a fictional character
Last week I watched "North and South" and I liked it, so I decided to read the book. I like to pretend that I'm not a silly girl, but I totally heart John Thorton now. With descriptions like these, how could I not?
Okay, you get the idea. And of course, it doesn't hurt anything that the image my mind calls up when reading these passages is this:
*sigh*
He went slowly down the steps right into the middle of the crowd. 'Now kill me, if it is your brutal will. There is no woman to shield me here. You may beat me to death--you will never move me from what I have determined upon--not you!' He stood amongst them, with his arms folded, in precisely the same attitude as he had been in on the steps. (Chapter 22)
"But I know she does not care for me. I shall put myself at her feet--I must. If it were but one chance in a thousand--or a million--I should do it." - John Thorton (Chapter 23)
Mr. Thornton remained in the dining-room, trying to think of the business he had to do at the police-office, and in reality thinking of Margaret. Everything seemed dim and vague beyond--behind--besides the touch of her arms round his neck--the soft clinging which made the dark colour come and go in his cheek as he thought of it. (Chapter 23)
"One word more. You look as if you thought it tainted you to be loved by me. You cannot avoid it. Nay, I, if I would, cannot cleanse you from it. But I would not, if I could. I have never loved any woman before: my life has been too busy, my thoughts too much absorbed with other things. Now I love, and will love. But do not be afraid of too much expression on my part." - John Thorton (Chapter 24)
When Mr. Thornton had left the house that morning he was almost blinded by his baffled passion. He was as dizzy as if Margaret, instead of looking, and speaking, and moving like a tender graceful woman, had been a sturdy fish-wife, and given him a sound blow with her fists. He had positive bodily pain,--a violent headache, and a throbbing intermittent pulse. He could not bear the noise, the garish light, the continued rumble and movement of the street. He called himself a fool for suffering so; and yet he could not, at the moment, recollect the cause of his suffering, and whether it was adequate to the consequences it had produced. It would have been a relief to him, if he could have sat down and cried on a door-step by a little child, who was raging and storming, through his passionate tears, at some injury he had received. He said to himself, that he hated Margaret, but a wild, sharp sensation of love cleft his dull, thunderous feeling like lightning, even as he shaped the words expressive of hatred. His greatest comfort was in hugging his torment; and in feeling, as he had indeed said to her, that though she might despise him, contemn him, treat him with her proud sovereign indifference, he did not change one whit. She could not make him change. He loved her, and would love her; and defy her, and this miserable bodily pain. (Chapter 27)
He thought that he disliked seeing one who had mortified him so keenly; but he was mistaken. It was a stinging pleasure to be in the room with her, and feel her presence. (Chapter 29)
Okay, you get the idea. And of course, it doesn't hurt anything that the image my mind calls up when reading these passages is this:
*sigh*
Monday, October 12, 2009
weekend update with seth meyers
(Okay, I lied, Seth Meyer wasn't really part of my weekend. But my weekend would have been a lot more funny if he had been there.)
I went to Utah this weekend. I know, I know, you're mad at me because I didn't see you. I'm sorry! I tried to keep it on the dl because I knew I wouldn't have time to see a lot of people. So, try to forgive me. I'll see you the next time I'm in town, I'm sure.
The main reason I went to Utah was for Kacey and Joe's wedding. (Every time you think "Kacey and Joe" do you think "K-C and Jojo"? Me too.) It was a lovely wedding. I ran into my friend Lisa's husband, randomly. He was waiting for another wedding party to come out of the temple. Sadly, Lisa wasn't there, but I guess you take what you can get. It was nice seeing old friends from the ward both at the wedding and at the reception. Especially Sleakbean and Anne of Green Gables (and Gilbert) since it was Anne's birthday and I just like those two.
The rest of the short weekend was spent with my sister Lizzy. We spent some time with the aunts and cousins and the lot, playing pinochle and having a grand old time. And I have a new show for you to watch, along the lines of "Jane Eyre" and "Sense and Sensibility" : "North and South". Lizzy really likes this one, and I enjoyed it too. (It's the BBC production based on the book by Elizabeth Glaskell, not the one about the Civil War.) Mr. Thorton was another angry, brooding, moody, dark hero and I found him delightful. Why do I like angry men so much? It's a mystery. (I hope my liking Mr. Thorton doesn't make me like Sir Guy of Gisborne from the new BBC Robin Hood that I've been enjoying, thanks to you, Melissa.) I need to read the book.
In other news - I got a new calling while I was away this weekend. It is probably one of my least favorite callings: activities committee co-chair. (True, I've never been the co-chair before, just on the committee, but I imagine co-chair is worse than just committee member.) I guess despite my hopes, no one voted against me and I'm due to start right away. *sigh* The funny thing is that Legolas is the other co-chair, as if I don't see him enough. But at least he's someone who I probably won't strangle. Probably.
And that was my weekend. Is it a good idea to stay up so late updating my blog? Probably not. But I'm not working tomorrow (well, I guess it's today now) because I work for a state agency and tomorrow is a state holiday (Columbus day) hence the office is closed. Hopefully I'll spend my day running and getting my hair back to red again. I know some of you said you liked it, but I really don't like the blond. And that's all I've got tonight. Cheers!
I went to Utah this weekend. I know, I know, you're mad at me because I didn't see you. I'm sorry! I tried to keep it on the dl because I knew I wouldn't have time to see a lot of people. So, try to forgive me. I'll see you the next time I'm in town, I'm sure.
The main reason I went to Utah was for Kacey and Joe's wedding. (Every time you think "Kacey and Joe" do you think "K-C and Jojo"? Me too.) It was a lovely wedding. I ran into my friend Lisa's husband, randomly. He was waiting for another wedding party to come out of the temple. Sadly, Lisa wasn't there, but I guess you take what you can get. It was nice seeing old friends from the ward both at the wedding and at the reception. Especially Sleakbean and Anne of Green Gables (and Gilbert) since it was Anne's birthday and I just like those two.
The rest of the short weekend was spent with my sister Lizzy. We spent some time with the aunts and cousins and the lot, playing pinochle and having a grand old time. And I have a new show for you to watch, along the lines of "Jane Eyre" and "Sense and Sensibility" : "North and South". Lizzy really likes this one, and I enjoyed it too. (It's the BBC production based on the book by Elizabeth Glaskell, not the one about the Civil War.) Mr. Thorton was another angry, brooding, moody, dark hero and I found him delightful. Why do I like angry men so much? It's a mystery. (I hope my liking Mr. Thorton doesn't make me like Sir Guy of Gisborne from the new BBC Robin Hood that I've been enjoying, thanks to you, Melissa.) I need to read the book.
In other news - I got a new calling while I was away this weekend. It is probably one of my least favorite callings: activities committee co-chair. (True, I've never been the co-chair before, just on the committee, but I imagine co-chair is worse than just committee member.) I guess despite my hopes, no one voted against me and I'm due to start right away. *sigh* The funny thing is that Legolas is the other co-chair, as if I don't see him enough. But at least he's someone who I probably won't strangle. Probably.
And that was my weekend. Is it a good idea to stay up so late updating my blog? Probably not. But I'm not working tomorrow (well, I guess it's today now) because I work for a state agency and tomorrow is a state holiday (Columbus day) hence the office is closed. Hopefully I'll spend my day running and getting my hair back to red again. I know some of you said you liked it, but I really don't like the blond. And that's all I've got tonight. Cheers!
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
oooooooooh fffffffuuuuuuuuuuuuuuddddddddddggggee
Yesterday, I decided to go outside for lunch to stretch my legs and get some fresh air. I was planning on stopping by my car briefly to grab something, so I had my keys with me. I didn't bring my purse because who wants to be lugging that around and it was perfectly safe at my desk. So I just had my keys hanging lightly out of my pocket - the one key in the pocket, the rest outside kind of thing. (I don't like having my pockets full of keys.)
As I was stepping out of the elevator, I felt my keys slip out of my pocket. I looked down for them, but I didn't see them, which confused me. I felt my pocket to see if I was wrong and they were still there. Then I saw the horrified look on the face of the woman still in the elevator.
"They went down that hole," she said in hushed tones, pointing to the gap between the elevator and the floor.
It took me a second to realize what she was saying. I saw the look on the faces of the people waiting for the elevator - they seemed shocked. It sunk in - my keys were not going to be found on the floor. I wasn't quite sure what the next step was, so I just stood there stupidly for a moment trying to think what to do.
"The security people can get them for you," said the lady in the elevator.
I decided this was my best chance in any case, so I got back into the elevator and took it to the ground floor. The lady in the elevator, deciding I was incompetent, strode up to the security desk and told them I'd lost my keys down the elevator shaft. I smiled and tried to look like I wasn't an idiot. The security guy said he could get my keys, no problem, and what did they look like? I told him, but then I was wondering why would he ask me such a question. Was he expecting a whole heap of keys down there and wanted to make sure he brought back the right ones? Did he think that I saw someone else drop their keys and if I got to security first, I'd get them? I don't know the answers. But he did bring me back the right set of keys, and sent me on my way.
At least I didn't drop them into a pool of lava because then, man, they'd be gone.
As I was stepping out of the elevator, I felt my keys slip out of my pocket. I looked down for them, but I didn't see them, which confused me. I felt my pocket to see if I was wrong and they were still there. Then I saw the horrified look on the face of the woman still in the elevator.
"They went down that hole," she said in hushed tones, pointing to the gap between the elevator and the floor.
It took me a second to realize what she was saying. I saw the look on the faces of the people waiting for the elevator - they seemed shocked. It sunk in - my keys were not going to be found on the floor. I wasn't quite sure what the next step was, so I just stood there stupidly for a moment trying to think what to do.
"The security people can get them for you," said the lady in the elevator.
I decided this was my best chance in any case, so I got back into the elevator and took it to the ground floor. The lady in the elevator, deciding I was incompetent, strode up to the security desk and told them I'd lost my keys down the elevator shaft. I smiled and tried to look like I wasn't an idiot. The security guy said he could get my keys, no problem, and what did they look like? I told him, but then I was wondering why would he ask me such a question. Was he expecting a whole heap of keys down there and wanted to make sure he brought back the right ones? Did he think that I saw someone else drop their keys and if I got to security first, I'd get them? I don't know the answers. But he did bring me back the right set of keys, and sent me on my way.
At least I didn't drop them into a pool of lava because then, man, they'd be gone.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
diet pineapple coke morning
Last night I did something I haven't done in quite a while - I stayed up super late to finish a book. True, I only read four hours last night, but I didn't start until midnight. (Why did I start reading a book about six hours after I wanted to go to bed? It's a mystery. I'm not qualified to make good decisions after 10:00 pm.) I kept telling myself I would read just one more chapter; just one more. By the time it was three in the morning, I knew I was going to finish, so I stopped fighting it. When I did finish, I was wide awake wondering how I was going to get just a bit of sleep for work today when all of a sudden my alarm was going off and it was two hours later. I must have problems distinguishing between tired and not tired.
It was a good book and very engaging - The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins - but nothing life changing by any means. (Spoiler alert: It did make my cry in the middle. I give Lady MacBeth a hard time for crying at movies, but nothing makes me cry like books do.) And now I'm left to sip caffeine all day and wait for the chance to take a nap.
It was a good book and very engaging - The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins - but nothing life changing by any means. (Spoiler alert: It did make my cry in the middle. I give Lady MacBeth a hard time for crying at movies, but nothing makes me cry like books do.) And now I'm left to sip caffeine all day and wait for the chance to take a nap.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Friday, October 2, 2009
frazzled
When I was a kid, we used to say our mom was "frazzled". It seemed like a much nicer word than "ditzy". Besides, she isn't blond and it seems only blonds can be truly ditzy.
Well, for the time being, I'm blond. And I can say I am truly ditzy sometimes. And I don't even have five children, so I can't claim anything other than myself for my shortcomings. And of course, I've got a few stories to illistrate my point.
Story 1:
My temple recommend expired in September. So I needed a new one because I like having a current temple recommend and also because I'm going to a wedding next weekend and usually they don't let you witness temple weddings without one. So, I made an appointment with the bishop on Tuesday and got a new one. While I was in his office, he had me get out my old recommend so he could copy down the membership information and what not. At the end of the interview, he gave me back my old recommend (I was going to use it again before it expired) and the new one so I could take it to my stake president interview. I put them both in my journal, so I wouldn't lose them.
Wednesday I had an appointment at the temple. I was going to leave and I thought - Oh yeah, my recommend is in my journal, I'd better go get it. But when I went to get it, it wasn't there! Panic! I checked again. And again. I checked my car in case it slipped out in there. I called Legolas because I'd gone to his house after the interview, but he couldn't find it either. I called the temple and told them I wasn't coming. I looked everywhere again. I went through every page of my journal. I went to the church to see if it has somehow fallen out and someone had found it, but I had no luck there either. The thing I couldn't understand is how both recommends were gone - how had both the new and the old one fallen out and gotten lost. It was distressing. I wasn't looking forward to calling the bishop and telling him I'd need another new recommend because I lost the first one within 24 hours of getting it.
Well, the next day - yesterday - I found it on accident. It was in my purse. How had I not thought to check my purse? I can only say in my head I somehow knew I put it in my journal and so my brain wouldn't even entertain ideas of looking in other places.
Story 2:
Yesterday I went with some friends to a Mike Birbliglia show. (The comedian, not the singer. That's Michael Buble.) It was down town. I work downtown, so naturally I knew where we were going. But when we got there, I was like - wait, that's the Ohio Theatre there, not the Capitol Theatre. I still thought I knew where we were going and I directed us to walk around the block, but that was the Palace Theatre. Now, I was throroghly confused. Luckily, Legolas knew what was going on and directed us aright. He got us to the Capitol Theatre, which just happens to be in the same building as my office. How did I miss that? I go to that building five days a week and I've seen the signs for the Capitol Theatre probably every day I've been there, yet something just didn't connect.
Side Note:
Today at work, I noticed three bottles of half empty (half full?) bottles of diet coke in the refrigerator and I'm about 80% sure they're all mine. Just not quite sure enough to throw them away.
Well, for the time being, I'm blond. And I can say I am truly ditzy sometimes. And I don't even have five children, so I can't claim anything other than myself for my shortcomings. And of course, I've got a few stories to illistrate my point.
Story 1:
My temple recommend expired in September. So I needed a new one because I like having a current temple recommend and also because I'm going to a wedding next weekend and usually they don't let you witness temple weddings without one. So, I made an appointment with the bishop on Tuesday and got a new one. While I was in his office, he had me get out my old recommend so he could copy down the membership information and what not. At the end of the interview, he gave me back my old recommend (I was going to use it again before it expired) and the new one so I could take it to my stake president interview. I put them both in my journal, so I wouldn't lose them.
Wednesday I had an appointment at the temple. I was going to leave and I thought - Oh yeah, my recommend is in my journal, I'd better go get it. But when I went to get it, it wasn't there! Panic! I checked again. And again. I checked my car in case it slipped out in there. I called Legolas because I'd gone to his house after the interview, but he couldn't find it either. I called the temple and told them I wasn't coming. I looked everywhere again. I went through every page of my journal. I went to the church to see if it has somehow fallen out and someone had found it, but I had no luck there either. The thing I couldn't understand is how both recommends were gone - how had both the new and the old one fallen out and gotten lost. It was distressing. I wasn't looking forward to calling the bishop and telling him I'd need another new recommend because I lost the first one within 24 hours of getting it.
Well, the next day - yesterday - I found it on accident. It was in my purse. How had I not thought to check my purse? I can only say in my head I somehow knew I put it in my journal and so my brain wouldn't even entertain ideas of looking in other places.
Story 2:
Yesterday I went with some friends to a Mike Birbliglia show. (The comedian, not the singer. That's Michael Buble.) It was down town. I work downtown, so naturally I knew where we were going. But when we got there, I was like - wait, that's the Ohio Theatre there, not the Capitol Theatre. I still thought I knew where we were going and I directed us to walk around the block, but that was the Palace Theatre. Now, I was throroghly confused. Luckily, Legolas knew what was going on and directed us aright. He got us to the Capitol Theatre, which just happens to be in the same building as my office. How did I miss that? I go to that building five days a week and I've seen the signs for the Capitol Theatre probably every day I've been there, yet something just didn't connect.
Side Note:
Today at work, I noticed three bottles of half empty (half full?) bottles of diet coke in the refrigerator and I'm about 80% sure they're all mine. Just not quite sure enough to throw them away.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
happy birthday to me!
The city of Columbus gave me the most wonderful birthday present today: finished construction on 315! It only took me ten minutes to drive into work today. Huzzah! No wonder they were over schedule - they were saving it as a present to me. Well, thanks, Columbus. It really was wonderful of you!
edo days and nippon nights
I'm back! (You: hooray!) Japan was delightful. Here's a list of things I learned about Japan while I was there:
1. They drive on the left side of the road in Japan. Yet we still saw a few cars with the driver on the left instead of the right.
2. For some reason, there aren't very many trash cans around. How did they keep that place so clean with no trashcans?
3. It is very English friendly there. All the road signs and subway stops and everything are in English as well and Japanese. In addition, if you are white and looking lost, people will stop and ask if you need help.
4. There is no diet coke in Japan, only coke zero.
5. Traditional Japanese pillows are filled with beans or something, not feathers.
6. There are no beggars. This is the first trip I've ever been on where I haven't been panhandled. Tokyo is a big city and we saw a few people who looked homeless, yet not even one person asked me for money.
7. People don't make eye contact and smile at each other. It was my personal goal to get as many people to smile at me as possible.
8. They really do make the most delicious sushi you've ever dreamed of.
9. At every restaurant, they give you either a warm towel or a wet wipe to wash your hands before you eat.
10. They love love love McDonalds over there.
11. The bullet trains are smooth enough that you can write in your journal with your left hand and still have it be neat.
12. They love ticket machines and having things automated. We stayed one night at the temple and we had to buy a ticket from a machine outside the office. At one restaurant we ate at, we bought tickets for the food we wanted before going in.
13. Despite what people told us, Japan was no more expensive than the United States. It was pretty much the same.
14. Whenever you buy anything at a souvineer shop, they wrap it up in nice paper. You could go straight from a souvineer shop to a birthday party if you already had a card.
15. It really is a lovely place to travel to, and if you get a chance, you should go.
(ps. thanks for the title of this post, Raskolnikov.)
1. They drive on the left side of the road in Japan. Yet we still saw a few cars with the driver on the left instead of the right.
2. For some reason, there aren't very many trash cans around. How did they keep that place so clean with no trashcans?
3. It is very English friendly there. All the road signs and subway stops and everything are in English as well and Japanese. In addition, if you are white and looking lost, people will stop and ask if you need help.
4. There is no diet coke in Japan, only coke zero.
5. Traditional Japanese pillows are filled with beans or something, not feathers.
6. There are no beggars. This is the first trip I've ever been on where I haven't been panhandled. Tokyo is a big city and we saw a few people who looked homeless, yet not even one person asked me for money.
7. People don't make eye contact and smile at each other. It was my personal goal to get as many people to smile at me as possible.
8. They really do make the most delicious sushi you've ever dreamed of.
9. At every restaurant, they give you either a warm towel or a wet wipe to wash your hands before you eat.
10. They love love love McDonalds over there.
11. The bullet trains are smooth enough that you can write in your journal with your left hand and still have it be neat.
12. They love ticket machines and having things automated. We stayed one night at the temple and we had to buy a ticket from a machine outside the office. At one restaurant we ate at, we bought tickets for the food we wanted before going in.
13. Despite what people told us, Japan was no more expensive than the United States. It was pretty much the same.
14. Whenever you buy anything at a souvineer shop, they wrap it up in nice paper. You could go straight from a souvineer shop to a birthday party if you already had a card.
15. It really is a lovely place to travel to, and if you get a chance, you should go.
(ps. thanks for the title of this post, Raskolnikov.)
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Sayonara
If you're wondering I won't be updating my blog for the next ten or so days, I just want to remind you it's because I'm in Japan.
Suckers.
Suckers.
Monday, September 14, 2009
mixed drinks
A few weeks ago, I went to a friend's wedding where they served sparkling cider so we could all toast the happy couple. I usually like sparkling cider, but this stuff tasted to me like beer smells, so I didn't love it. Raskolnikov mixed his with diet coke, so I thought I'd try the same thing, but I still didn't like the concoction. I just ended up wasting precious diet coke.
I realized my flaw: I was trying to mix something I didn't like with something I did like in order to make it good. This plan doesn't work very often. If you mix mushrooms with soup, you get soup that is gross and tastes like mushrooms. If you mix Sunday School with a nintendo party, maybe it spices up the class a bit, but in the end they are still trying to teach you about paying your tithing.
Point being, I realized I should try mixing two things I like. Sure, it might not work, but it had a higher probability of succeeding than the first experiment. I tried two drinks that are both delightful in and of themselves: diet coke (of course) and pineapple juice. The result was even better than I thought it would be and is now my new favorite drink. In my mind, I think it must be what rum and coke is like to drinkers because I think that rum is kind of fruity, right? Maybe not, I don't know. What I do know is that diet pineapple coke isn't helping me in my "goal" to stop drinking so much pop, but it is helping me drink more fruit juice, which is good for you, right? I'm calling it sixes as we stand here.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
jane eyre part two
I read Jane Eyre this week and I liked it. I will probably add it to my "read these books every few years" list.
(And to my former roommate who I named Jane Eyre : I'm not sorry about that. Not that I think you're like her. Just that it's a good pseudonym. At least you're not Raskolnikov, right?)
(And to my former roommate who I named Jane Eyre : I'm not sorry about that. Not that I think you're like her. Just that it's a good pseudonym. At least you're not Raskolnikov, right?)
Monday, September 7, 2009
jane eyre
About two months ago, Mrs. Weasley recommended that I watch the new Masterpiece Theatre version of Jane Eyre. (At least, I hope that's the version she recommended, because it's the one I watched.) I'm honestly not much of a home movie watcher because it always seems like I'm doing other things, but I ordered it from NetFlix. (I don't even know why I have a NetFlix account since I hardly ever watch movies, but that's beside the point.) I got the movie probably three weeks ago, and finally today, since I had the day off and avoided contact with other people, I sat down and watched it. It was comprised of two dvds and lasted four hours.
I know this may come as a shock to many of you, as I do enjoy reading so much, but I've never actually read Jane Eyre before. I've never even seen another version of it, so I really had no idea what was coming. I found the beginning very odd indeed and was really unsure as to what was going on. But by the end I decided I liked it very much. Maybe even enough to read the book. Mr. Rochester was so dreamy. I might even like him more than Mr. Darcy. Maybe. He was just so brooding and delightful. I hope one day that I meet someone who will call me a witch my whole life. (And as Jane is very plain, but also very passionate, I think it would be a very apt comparison with me.)
I know this may come as a shock to many of you, as I do enjoy reading so much, but I've never actually read Jane Eyre before. I've never even seen another version of it, so I really had no idea what was coming. I found the beginning very odd indeed and was really unsure as to what was going on. But by the end I decided I liked it very much. Maybe even enough to read the book. Mr. Rochester was so dreamy. I might even like him more than Mr. Darcy. Maybe. He was just so brooding and delightful. I hope one day that I meet someone who will call me a witch my whole life. (And as Jane is very plain, but also very passionate, I think it would be a very apt comparison with me.)
Friday, September 4, 2009
Thursday, September 3, 2009
please don't shake me, no don't wake me, leave me where i am... i'm only sleeping....
Anyone who has ever lived with me knows that I am not a night person. I get all crazy and sometimes crabby. The problem is that I think I still am qualified to speak and make decisions, when really I am not. (When living with Mrs. Weasely, she had a rule that said, "No life decisions after 10 pm." A good rule for me.) I say things I regret and my swearing increases exponentially with how late it gets.
One thing that I often do is trick myself into falling asleep. I am a very good sleeper, especially when I tell myself I'm not going to sleep for the night - I'm just going to take a little nap so I can be awake enough to get ready for bed in a few minutes. Monday night I didn't even think I was tired and I was wondering how I was going to fall asleep. I layed on my bed, waiting for my roommate to get out of the bathroom, and the next thing I knew it was 6:30 in the morning and I'd slept all night in jeans with my contacts in and all the lights in my bedroom on.
(Side note: sleeping all night with your contacts in makes an uncomfortable day the next day. Your contacts trap in all that enzyme whatever whatever stuff that makes eye goobers and so it turns your eyes extra gooey for the duration of the day.) (Unless you are smart enough to take out your contacts and wear your glasses instead.) (Which I'm not.)
Knowing that if I try to take a nap in my bed, nine times out of ten I'll end up sleeping all night, I sometimes try to take a nap on the floor, thinking it will be uncomfortable enough to wake me up after not too long. But usually what happens is my arm will fall asleep, which will wake me up, but I'm too far gone by that point and I will just fumble into my bed with the same results as if I'd started there.
Don't get me wrong - I'm definitely not complaining about this sleeping talent of mine. I'd rather be able to fall asleep under many diverse conditions than not to be able to fall asleep. I'm just telling you why I will sometimes tell you to go to h-e-double toothpicks if you're talking to me after 10pm.
One thing that I often do is trick myself into falling asleep. I am a very good sleeper, especially when I tell myself I'm not going to sleep for the night - I'm just going to take a little nap so I can be awake enough to get ready for bed in a few minutes. Monday night I didn't even think I was tired and I was wondering how I was going to fall asleep. I layed on my bed, waiting for my roommate to get out of the bathroom, and the next thing I knew it was 6:30 in the morning and I'd slept all night in jeans with my contacts in and all the lights in my bedroom on.
(Side note: sleeping all night with your contacts in makes an uncomfortable day the next day. Your contacts trap in all that enzyme whatever whatever stuff that makes eye goobers and so it turns your eyes extra gooey for the duration of the day.) (Unless you are smart enough to take out your contacts and wear your glasses instead.) (Which I'm not.)
Knowing that if I try to take a nap in my bed, nine times out of ten I'll end up sleeping all night, I sometimes try to take a nap on the floor, thinking it will be uncomfortable enough to wake me up after not too long. But usually what happens is my arm will fall asleep, which will wake me up, but I'm too far gone by that point and I will just fumble into my bed with the same results as if I'd started there.
Don't get me wrong - I'm definitely not complaining about this sleeping talent of mine. I'd rather be able to fall asleep under many diverse conditions than not to be able to fall asleep. I'm just telling you why I will sometimes tell you to go to h-e-double toothpicks if you're talking to me after 10pm.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
bookclub
Don't forget to check out kristin and erin's online bookclub for exciting new posts and discussions (kind of exciting anyway).
Maybe one of these days I'll get around to doing a real post here.
Maybe one of these days I'll get around to doing a real post here.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Monday, August 24, 2009
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
signs that you might be a competitive jerk
Last night at FHE we were playing a game at the bishop's house where we were divided into three teams. Each team was trying to come up with as many temples as they could, but you only got points for temples that the other teams didn't come up with. When we were reading our temples, our team kept getting shot down. ("We've got that one!", "Nope, doesn't count - we have it.") Finally we got one that no one else had (Detroit) and before thinking I said, "Ha! Suck it!" The bishop laughed and said that perhaps that phrase shouldn't be used in a temple game. Well, we ended up coming in second anyway. But the evening wasn't a total wash because later I was able to join the golf ball on tee club. The bishop has a snow globe with a golf ball and a tee in it and the object is to get the golf ball on the tee. I think the only members of this club are me, the bishop and Moses. So yeah - suck that!
Monday, August 17, 2009
old friends and bookends
I went to Washington DC this weekend for my cousin's wedding. It was nice. I haven't been to our nation's capital since I drove out with out there with Melissa about five or six years ago. I really don't know why I haven't been since moving to Ohio since it's only about a six and a half hour drive. Very easy day trip. Lady MacBeth and Legolas came with me so we could spend some time seeing the sites together when not at the wedding. Here are the highlights of the trip:
- Lady MacBeth and Legolas really are delightful people to travel with. They don't get crabby (like I do) and they are flexible with the itinerary. And it was nice seeing my family. We all went to dinner for my little sister Lydia's birthday after the temple.
- We met up with my old friend Andrew from BYU. The day before we left I remembered that he lives in DC now, so I sent him an email asking if he was free to meet up and he was. He hung out with us all day on Saturday and it was just delightful to see him and remember all the fun times we used to have.
- The wedding, of course, was lovely. I almost missed it due to traffic, but I got to the temple with about three minutes to spare. They took most of the pictures before the wedding (which no one told me... hmmmmm.....) so I got out of that part. But they took one picture after the ceremony with everyone. I convinced Lady MacBeth and Legolas to be in the picture. Everyone was kind of standing by families with the bride's side to the right and the groom's to the left. Except one little niece of the groom came over to our side and decided to hold Lydia's hand. And Legolas put his hand on Lydia's shoulder, so it will probably look like they are a couple with a cute little daughter in the wedding picture.
- We went to the Library of Congress. We weren't able to go into the part with all the books, just the part with the history and displays and stuff. I got a library card even though you're only supposed to get them if you're going to do research. But the next time I come back I will go and spend some time there.
- The Metro - I just love public transportation. I don't know why.
- I found the monuments to be quite beautiful. I wish that I could be that artistic. I guess that's why I don't design monuments. We saw the World War II, Korean War and Vietnam war memorials. Plus the Lincoln Monument. But not the Jefferson since I have a general dislike of him in deference to John Adams.
- I had one of the best hamburgers of my whole life at Ray's Hell Burgers. (It may have been called Ray's the Steaks, I'm not sure.) We also had some good chili at a place frequented by Barack (and by "frequented" I mean he's been there once). And we hiked about a hundred miles to a really good cupcake place. (I don't actually like cake very much, but I didn't want to spoil the party since Lady MacBeth and Legolas had been such good sports in going to all the places I'd wanted to go. But they were very good cupcakes for being made of cake.)
- This was my first time in the Air and Space Museum and I liked it. There was so much to see. It just went on and on and on. I could have spent all day there. (Note: I could have also spent all day at the Library of Congress, had they let me.)
- And finally, the magnet that Legolas bought me: (this might not be it exactly, but it's close)
- Lady MacBeth and Legolas really are delightful people to travel with. They don't get crabby (like I do) and they are flexible with the itinerary. And it was nice seeing my family. We all went to dinner for my little sister Lydia's birthday after the temple.
- We met up with my old friend Andrew from BYU. The day before we left I remembered that he lives in DC now, so I sent him an email asking if he was free to meet up and he was. He hung out with us all day on Saturday and it was just delightful to see him and remember all the fun times we used to have.
- The wedding, of course, was lovely. I almost missed it due to traffic, but I got to the temple with about three minutes to spare. They took most of the pictures before the wedding (which no one told me... hmmmmm.....) so I got out of that part. But they took one picture after the ceremony with everyone. I convinced Lady MacBeth and Legolas to be in the picture. Everyone was kind of standing by families with the bride's side to the right and the groom's to the left. Except one little niece of the groom came over to our side and decided to hold Lydia's hand. And Legolas put his hand on Lydia's shoulder, so it will probably look like they are a couple with a cute little daughter in the wedding picture.
- We went to the Library of Congress. We weren't able to go into the part with all the books, just the part with the history and displays and stuff. I got a library card even though you're only supposed to get them if you're going to do research. But the next time I come back I will go and spend some time there.
- The Metro - I just love public transportation. I don't know why.
- I found the monuments to be quite beautiful. I wish that I could be that artistic. I guess that's why I don't design monuments. We saw the World War II, Korean War and Vietnam war memorials. Plus the Lincoln Monument. But not the Jefferson since I have a general dislike of him in deference to John Adams.
- I had one of the best hamburgers of my whole life at Ray's Hell Burgers. (It may have been called Ray's the Steaks, I'm not sure.) We also had some good chili at a place frequented by Barack (and by "frequented" I mean he's been there once). And we hiked about a hundred miles to a really good cupcake place. (I don't actually like cake very much, but I didn't want to spoil the party since Lady MacBeth and Legolas had been such good sports in going to all the places I'd wanted to go. But they were very good cupcakes for being made of cake.)
- This was my first time in the Air and Space Museum and I liked it. There was so much to see. It just went on and on and on. I could have spent all day there. (Note: I could have also spent all day at the Library of Congress, had they let me.)
- And finally, the magnet that Legolas bought me: (this might not be it exactly, but it's close)
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
clubbing
I think it's fun to be in a lot of clubs. Plus it looks good on your college application. So pretty much everything I do is a club. The main clubs I'm involved in now are Piano Club, Japan Club and Running Club. But I've also recently participated in State Fair Club, Ward Temple Night Club, Watching Bridget Jones 2 (edited) with Legolas and Lady MacBeth Club, Reading Club, Beach Club, Biking Club, Sushi Club, Playing Games with Old People Club (and winning $1.75 playing poker with them!) and Line Dancing Club.
(aside: I don't really think I'm a "cool" person, but nothing makes you feel like you're doing okay than not being good at line dancing. I mean, how do people get that good? I feel like I've made much better use of the last five years of my life.)
I suppose I'm also a member of Job Club, but that's mostly out of necessity. And I usually try to get out of Sunday School Club, though I really am honestly doing better. (I stayed the whole time this last Sunday and even paid attention! And answered a question!)
This weekend I'm having Going to Washington DC club, which I'm very excited about. While I'm there I'm going to JoAnna's Wedding Club and then spending the rest of the time at Seeing the Sites Club. It should be a grand old time.
I recently learned that blogs are more interesting with pictures. So in an effort to make my blog more interesting, here you go:
(aside: I don't really think I'm a "cool" person, but nothing makes you feel like you're doing okay than not being good at line dancing. I mean, how do people get that good? I feel like I've made much better use of the last five years of my life.)
I suppose I'm also a member of Job Club, but that's mostly out of necessity. And I usually try to get out of Sunday School Club, though I really am honestly doing better. (I stayed the whole time this last Sunday and even paid attention! And answered a question!)
This weekend I'm having Going to Washington DC club, which I'm very excited about. While I'm there I'm going to JoAnna's Wedding Club and then spending the rest of the time at Seeing the Sites Club. It should be a grand old time.
I recently learned that blogs are more interesting with pictures. So in an effort to make my blog more interesting, here you go:
Monday, August 10, 2009
i'm coming home, ireland
Two weekends ago, I went to the Irish Festival in Dublin, Ohio. My favorite part was the music. The Irish just have wonderful music. Everywhere you go in the festival there is music playing - traditional bands, pipe bands, Irish rock bands, even just folks sitting down and playing sets (which, really, is what Irish music is all about).This post isn't really about the Irish Fest, though, as I don't really have much more to say about it other than it was lovely. But, being around so many things Irish reminded me of my last name, which is Irish. Or at least, the first Neeley that I'm related to who came from Europe came from Ireland. And thinking about Neeleys reminded me about a story that I heard once about Neeleys. And here it is....
The early Neeleys were a seafaring people and very adventurous. They were out exploring new waters and a new island was discovered. Well, there was quite an uproar - everyone around wanted to settle this new island. So it was decided that they'd have a contest - there would be a race to the new island and whoever touched it first got to claim it. The race starts, and Neeley fell behind, but was still pretty close to the leader. When it becomes apparent that he isn't going to reach the island before the other guy, he cuts off his hand and throws it to the island, thereby touching the island first and winning claim to settling it.
I was told this story by an old coworker who also had Neeley ancestors. I asked my grandma if she'd ever heard the story before and she said no. But what does she know? She's not really a Neeley anyway, she's a Hollrock (pure Prussian if ever there was one).
I, for one, believe the story is true because it showcases a lot of classic Neeley traits: competitive, bold, stubborn, high tolerance to pain, not thinking ahead (like - maybe I'll need a hand for the rest of my life?), cheating if it makes you win (or, looking for the loopholes), etc. I definitely believe I could have descended from someone like that.
Friday, August 7, 2009
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