Its been only a week from yesterday since we moved in to our house on Hanford Rd. Since then we have moved all the furniture in, unpacked the kitchen, cleaned the guttters, raked the yard, emptied almost 90% of our boxes, gotten me a painting show, met some cool people, been to an art opening....and now onto cake decorating tonight!
Our friend is a talented baker and cook (of course, shes from Italy...) She and a friend enter a local cake decorating competition every year, and have won the past few years. So tonight is the cake decorating party. Drew and I are gonna put on our artist/cake decorating caps and get down to cake decorating! I think we are using marzipan instead of fondant so it will be interesting.
Now that I think of it, I dont think we have spent a night in...well maybe sunday because it was raining, but every other night its been out...lots of fun! We are in such a great location, so happy we are finally here!!
Tuesday, December 08, 2009
Tuesday, December 01, 2009
Its Official!
Its official, 103 Hanford is ours now! WOW our first home! We are so excited/overwhelmed and tired!! Got the keys yesterday at 3pm, emptied one of our moving storage containers in less than 2 hrs, and just have one more to go (tho this one will be harder, its the furniture and big stuff and I am going to tackle it myself today).
How awesome is this, we started looking 2 years ago down here, looked at some pretty scary short sales, some really old battered houses that needed total renovation. In the end it all worked out perfectly. We are in a nice house, great updated kitchen and master bath, hardwood floors, and awesome trail system that connects to each part of the neighborhood.
Well onto more packing!!
How awesome is this, we started looking 2 years ago down here, looked at some pretty scary short sales, some really old battered houses that needed total renovation. In the end it all worked out perfectly. We are in a nice house, great updated kitchen and master bath, hardwood floors, and awesome trail system that connects to each part of the neighborhood.
Well onto more packing!!
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Closing is closing in on us!
Well thanksgiving is just a hop skip and a jump away...ok more like a hop and a skip now. Which means our closing is coming up soon! We are so excited for this, have been waiting for a house and a move out of Maryland for so many years, and its finally coming true!
I think what Drew and I are most thankful for this year is how everything worked out for the best! We have our first home together, our first real home...not some apartment, or rented townhome, but something we will repaint, and fix up and take care of, something to be proud of and put our hearts into. I know a house is just a house, and we have just been in a "dwelling" so many years now...it will be really strange to have something we can be proud to live in. Drew has already started poking around at furniture around the area for sale, and I am thinking about how i will coordinate cleaning, and unpacking, and probably repainting! WOW next week!
I am so grateful for my family and friends who have helped us pack, and move, and given us a bed (and a dog bed) while we have been in transition. I truely am thankful this Thanksgiving!
I think what Drew and I are most thankful for this year is how everything worked out for the best! We have our first home together, our first real home...not some apartment, or rented townhome, but something we will repaint, and fix up and take care of, something to be proud of and put our hearts into. I know a house is just a house, and we have just been in a "dwelling" so many years now...it will be really strange to have something we can be proud to live in. Drew has already started poking around at furniture around the area for sale, and I am thinking about how i will coordinate cleaning, and unpacking, and probably repainting! WOW next week!
I am so grateful for my family and friends who have helped us pack, and move, and given us a bed (and a dog bed) while we have been in transition. I truely am thankful this Thanksgiving!
Thursday, October 08, 2009
Drew's last day
Today is Drew's last day at Euler.
So funny to think its the only place he has ever worked since college. They were lucky to have him, and he was lucky to have found a steady work place for so many years. (unlike this job hopper, I have had at least 6 since college) I know he will be sad in a way, closing one chapter in his life. However, he is also ready for the start of a new chapter! Excited to get a house, be in a new place, work in an exciting field, and embark together on a new adventure...this time with dog in tow!
Emmitt and I have been taking long walks together lately as a break from packing for us both! Last night while Drew went out with coworkers, Emmitt and i found a back way to hike to the school here. I found a ball in the field and we chased eachother, and he chased the ball around for a good hour. I was so tired from running around that I fell asleep last night at 830, really i was nodding off at 8. Emmitt now sits on my lap when i sit on our rocking chair...he was nice and warm and his rhythmic breathing was lulling me to sleep...
So funny to think its the only place he has ever worked since college. They were lucky to have him, and he was lucky to have found a steady work place for so many years. (unlike this job hopper, I have had at least 6 since college) I know he will be sad in a way, closing one chapter in his life. However, he is also ready for the start of a new chapter! Excited to get a house, be in a new place, work in an exciting field, and embark together on a new adventure...this time with dog in tow!
Emmitt and I have been taking long walks together lately as a break from packing for us both! Last night while Drew went out with coworkers, Emmitt and i found a back way to hike to the school here. I found a ball in the field and we chased eachother, and he chased the ball around for a good hour. I was so tired from running around that I fell asleep last night at 830, really i was nodding off at 8. Emmitt now sits on my lap when i sit on our rocking chair...he was nice and warm and his rhythmic breathing was lulling me to sleep...
Wednesday, October 07, 2009
A house huntin' we will go
So this weekend is the big weekend! We have gotten our preapproval for a loan, we have gathered up some money for a down payment, (thanks mom and dad!) packed up most of Drew's clothes, and are heading down to NC in 2 days to look at houses! WOW our first house, its been a long time.
Drew and I were talking about the last time we lived in a house, I think for both of us it was really 11 years ago when we were 18 and living in our parent's houses. Ever since we have been renting, pretty crazy!
Tonight will be our last night in the "mill" together. Drew heads off tomorrow night. I am sure he will be back one of the next few weekends, but it will be totally different...
Packing is coming along. Today is the kitchen. I am running the dishwasher now so the plates will go in clean and dry this afternoon. I'll probably just get some plastic dishware for the rest of the month.
Weird and exciting all at once. It just doesnt feel real yet, and probably won't until we have moved and settled into a house...so we will be living in weird suspension for the next few weeks!
I guess this means I have to come up with a new name for this blog.
RB in NC..
Tarheel tales..
Kelley's in Carolina
Livin' in the "Hill"
hmm I will have to think about that one...time to get started on the day!
Drew and I were talking about the last time we lived in a house, I think for both of us it was really 11 years ago when we were 18 and living in our parent's houses. Ever since we have been renting, pretty crazy!
Tonight will be our last night in the "mill" together. Drew heads off tomorrow night. I am sure he will be back one of the next few weekends, but it will be totally different...
Packing is coming along. Today is the kitchen. I am running the dishwasher now so the plates will go in clean and dry this afternoon. I'll probably just get some plastic dishware for the rest of the month.
Weird and exciting all at once. It just doesnt feel real yet, and probably won't until we have moved and settled into a house...so we will be living in weird suspension for the next few weeks!
I guess this means I have to come up with a new name for this blog.
RB in NC..
Tarheel tales..
Kelley's in Carolina
Livin' in the "Hill"
hmm I will have to think about that one...time to get started on the day!
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
little dog is too big for his britches...
Oh man, Emmitt is on a tear. I dont know if its the packing, I don't know if its the change of seasons, maybe the cooler air...but man this pup is CRAZY. Joe and I took Emmitt and Ellie to the elementary yesterday to let them run around....the wind was blowing the leaves all around in the beautiful sunset pink light...
...aaaand whoosh, they were off like a bolt! Doooowwwn the hill, across the field to the fence, and then back uuup the hill (now mind you this is a very steep hill, often they get all nuts and tumble rather than run down the hill) back and forth and back and forth. Emmitt had his sights set on Ellie's ankles (yes i am the proud dog owner of an ankle biter) meanwhile she was doing her crazy "leave my heels alone" butt tuck run....I ducked behind Joe's much larger and sturdier frame so I would not get bulldozed by the crazies...
This continued for a good 20 mins, it was hysterical!! Finally, tongues wagging out of their mouths, they flopped down and were ready to walk home...
So anyway, today..same thing...Emmitt is totally wound up! We walked, we walked with Ellie, we walked alone, we walked with Gatsby...all in all this pooch walked at least 4 hrs today, with some fetch and dog play inbetween....so we went to the dog park thinking he'd be a little more laid back and able to play with the dogs...nope...he was sniffing here and sniffing there, marking here and marking there....until "Monster" came along. Now that was the dogs name, and it was aptly named....He was a 200lb pit! HUGE doesnt even begin to describe this dog's size...I knew, I knew right away that Emmitt would have to just go bug him....Well Monster marked all of Emmitts well planned out marking spots, and then proceeded to go harass Ellie...Ellie is at least twice Emmitt's size and out weighs him by 70lbs, she looked tiny next to "Monster!"
So over trotts Emmitt...with me in tow knowing full well that my tiny 36lb pup is going to pick a fight with..."MONSTER!" no sooner do I start to call his name than he goes and barks at Monster...and Monster..bellows back...eek! Fortunately Emmitt is a good listener and came back before it escalated more.. I turned to get the leash to go, and over comes Monster...behind my back. I knew he had to be there, right between my legs ready to bite because I could see it in Emmitts eyes...I heard Jess say, "rachel don't move...I'll distract the dog he's right there.."
Ohhh I sooo almost lost both a leg and 70% of my dog...would have been gone all in one bite!
Seriously, first of all...who buys and doesnt fix a dog that size, and second...if u did and your dog was aggressive, why would you bring it to a dog park where it specifically states if your dog bullies other dogs, please do not come..?
Phew...Emmitt shook the whole car ride back...my little man tries so hard to act all big...one of these days hes going to find out he isnt...just hope I am around to keep him safe when it happens!! silly dog...
...aaaand whoosh, they were off like a bolt! Doooowwwn the hill, across the field to the fence, and then back uuup the hill (now mind you this is a very steep hill, often they get all nuts and tumble rather than run down the hill) back and forth and back and forth. Emmitt had his sights set on Ellie's ankles (yes i am the proud dog owner of an ankle biter) meanwhile she was doing her crazy "leave my heels alone" butt tuck run....I ducked behind Joe's much larger and sturdier frame so I would not get bulldozed by the crazies...
This continued for a good 20 mins, it was hysterical!! Finally, tongues wagging out of their mouths, they flopped down and were ready to walk home...
So anyway, today..same thing...Emmitt is totally wound up! We walked, we walked with Ellie, we walked alone, we walked with Gatsby...all in all this pooch walked at least 4 hrs today, with some fetch and dog play inbetween....so we went to the dog park thinking he'd be a little more laid back and able to play with the dogs...nope...he was sniffing here and sniffing there, marking here and marking there....until "Monster" came along. Now that was the dogs name, and it was aptly named....He was a 200lb pit! HUGE doesnt even begin to describe this dog's size...I knew, I knew right away that Emmitt would have to just go bug him....Well Monster marked all of Emmitts well planned out marking spots, and then proceeded to go harass Ellie...Ellie is at least twice Emmitt's size and out weighs him by 70lbs, she looked tiny next to "Monster!"
So over trotts Emmitt...with me in tow knowing full well that my tiny 36lb pup is going to pick a fight with..."MONSTER!" no sooner do I start to call his name than he goes and barks at Monster...and Monster..bellows back...eek! Fortunately Emmitt is a good listener and came back before it escalated more.. I turned to get the leash to go, and over comes Monster...behind my back. I knew he had to be there, right between my legs ready to bite because I could see it in Emmitts eyes...I heard Jess say, "rachel don't move...I'll distract the dog he's right there.."
Ohhh I sooo almost lost both a leg and 70% of my dog...would have been gone all in one bite!
Seriously, first of all...who buys and doesnt fix a dog that size, and second...if u did and your dog was aggressive, why would you bring it to a dog park where it specifically states if your dog bullies other dogs, please do not come..?
Phew...Emmitt shook the whole car ride back...my little man tries so hard to act all big...one of these days hes going to find out he isnt...just hope I am around to keep him safe when it happens!! silly dog...
Monday, September 28, 2009
Movin 'n Groovin
Well after this morning, its 100% official. Drew is going into work very early and giving his notice. Its been almost 7 long years at the company...I can remember when it was new and fun and exciting for Drew to go in and make a difference there. As time changed, and people rearranged, it kept getting worse for him..no longer appreciated, belittled by his jackass of a boss...
With a few major, and successful projects under his belt, he is MORE than ready to find something new. He commented that he could be one of those guys that is at his office...who has been there for 30 yrs, still makes a meager earning, sorta zombies through his day and his life...he could just slip into that, but then in 10 yrs would probably wake up and wonder why the hell he just let life pass him by, why he didnt ever try to get out and find a job he was passionate about...well now he is doing that.
Labcorp sounds like a good starting off place to get into more biotech and research jobs..maybe it will be just a jumping off point, maybe it will be a place he really likes and stays at another 5-7 yrs. He came home with tons on his mind, after his interview...but was very excited about the genetic projects they do, and the people he will be working with...much better than previous bosses.
As for me, I will be SO sad to leave Jess, Joe, Ellie, Katie, and Chris! Took 6 years for Drew and I to find "real" friends here in Maryland. People you can just be comfortable around, not put on "airs" or feel like you cant be honest with. Its been so nice, if we are going out for a walk, we just stop by and see if Jess Joe and Ellie want to come, and vice versa. Need a dog sitter? someone to go to the grocery store with you...just pop on by Jess's
I will miss the lunch time walks with her, and the chats, seeing and feeling her baby bump kick and move, and how excited she is to meet her new baby!! soon soon!!
But now I am wandering off subject.
Aside from the bit of sadness, I am very looking forward to a house of our own, a new life, new experiences, a community to get involved with...and a family soon I hope!
Anyway, so I guess this posting will have to be changed...no longer "livin' in the Mill"......
With a few major, and successful projects under his belt, he is MORE than ready to find something new. He commented that he could be one of those guys that is at his office...who has been there for 30 yrs, still makes a meager earning, sorta zombies through his day and his life...he could just slip into that, but then in 10 yrs would probably wake up and wonder why the hell he just let life pass him by, why he didnt ever try to get out and find a job he was passionate about...well now he is doing that.
Labcorp sounds like a good starting off place to get into more biotech and research jobs..maybe it will be just a jumping off point, maybe it will be a place he really likes and stays at another 5-7 yrs. He came home with tons on his mind, after his interview...but was very excited about the genetic projects they do, and the people he will be working with...much better than previous bosses.
As for me, I will be SO sad to leave Jess, Joe, Ellie, Katie, and Chris! Took 6 years for Drew and I to find "real" friends here in Maryland. People you can just be comfortable around, not put on "airs" or feel like you cant be honest with. Its been so nice, if we are going out for a walk, we just stop by and see if Jess Joe and Ellie want to come, and vice versa. Need a dog sitter? someone to go to the grocery store with you...just pop on by Jess's
I will miss the lunch time walks with her, and the chats, seeing and feeling her baby bump kick and move, and how excited she is to meet her new baby!! soon soon!!
But now I am wandering off subject.
Aside from the bit of sadness, I am very looking forward to a house of our own, a new life, new experiences, a community to get involved with...and a family soon I hope!
Anyway, so I guess this posting will have to be changed...no longer "livin' in the Mill"......
Thursday, September 24, 2009
umm Fall?
Ok, so last week it was crisp and cool...not cold at all, just comfortable. I'm happy we haven't gotten any cold snaps yet, but speaking of no cold snaps...its like 85 and really really muggy. Where did this come from? Not sure. Emmitt and I like it though.
Kinda funny to see leaves that turned last week, yet if we go walk emmitt pants and I sweat!
Silly weather
Kinda funny to see leaves that turned last week, yet if we go walk emmitt pants and I sweat!
Silly weather
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
First Day of Fall
Its the first day of fall today..Grace's birthday too.
Lots a-changing in the air...leaves, a new baby neighbor soon.
Things here and there. I think it will be a good fall, I can only
be positive. Shorter and cooler days mean fewer kids
wandering around harassing emmitt and I, smoking
and having public sex in our park....it will be nice going for
a walk and not accidentally walking past a BJ or something
haha!
So comon fall, we are ready!
Lots a-changing in the air...leaves, a new baby neighbor soon.
Things here and there. I think it will be a good fall, I can only
be positive. Shorter and cooler days mean fewer kids
wandering around harassing emmitt and I, smoking
and having public sex in our park....it will be nice going for
a walk and not accidentally walking past a BJ or something
haha!
So comon fall, we are ready!
Thursday, June 11, 2009
blog lazy
Well I am just getting blogger lazy.
I think the last post was 3 weeks ago. On my birthday..
so lets see, went to Italy!! that was awesome!
saw venice, verona, mantua, and the foothills of the alps
and a lake where European royalty still visits today. (can think of the name)
It was the best vacation/8 days of my life (after my wedding of course)
Had a dog sitting day yesterday. Ellie and emmitt have been taking
turns going over our houses when its raining
or too hot to play outside. Yesterday was my turn. Jess has the flu so she
got to sleep. They were funny, its the first time Ellie has been here with out
Jess so she was pretty subdued. We walked, we played ball, and then they each
got a peanutbutter and apple kong.
Had some great thunderstorms here the last few days. its been really nice!
Art show is coming up. Totally bummed none of my family will b able to come.
My mom cant take off work on a monday (so she and my dad will come the following
sat) eryn has no car, and grace just got a new job and doesnt have time off for vacation until
after the fall....my friends and neighbors are all excited to support me though. It means so
much to me since I have no family that is close. Even my old boss from art camp will show up.
Drew has people from his work coming too, so that will be nice. With any luck people will feel
bad and buy something...haha just kidding!!
Anyway, I am almost ready for it. Got business cards, and invitations have been handed out,
got a price list, and matts. Just need to get the paintings matted finally and measure the space
and hang!
I think the last post was 3 weeks ago. On my birthday..
so lets see, went to Italy!! that was awesome!
saw venice, verona, mantua, and the foothills of the alpsand a lake where European royalty still visits today. (can think of the name)
It was the best vacation/8 days of my life (after my wedding of course)
Had a dog sitting day yesterday. Ellie and emmitt have been taking
turns going over our houses when its raining
or too hot to play outside. Yesterday was my turn. Jess has the flu so she
got to sleep. They were funny, its the first time Ellie has been here with out
Jess so she was pretty subdued. We walked, we played ball, and then they each
got a peanutbutter and apple kong.
Had some great thunderstorms here the last few days. its been really nice!
Art show is coming up. Totally bummed none of my family will b able to come.
My mom cant take off work on a monday (so she and my dad will come the following
sat) eryn has no car, and grace just got a new job and doesnt have time off for vacation until
after the fall....my friends and neighbors are all excited to support me though. It means so
much to me since I have no family that is close. Even my old boss from art camp will show up.
Drew has people from his work coming too, so that will be nice. With any luck people will feel
bad and buy something...haha just kidding!!
Anyway, I am almost ready for it. Got business cards, and invitations have been handed out,
got a price list, and matts. Just need to get the paintings matted finally and measure the space
and hang!
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
28 come and gone..
Wow 29. That just sounds so old, its like just leaning over that precipice that is 30...so close, but ugh 30....why is it that we feel so weird about age? Its just a number? Maybe its because we are no longer supposed to be joyful and carefree anymore...maybe its because in our culture we are supposed to have certain things by a certain age...house, mortgage, suv, 2.3 kids, soccer games, a dog in the back yard....etc...
30 just sounds like a whole lot of NO FUN! No more crazy road trips Drew and I used to just randomly embark on in our early 20s, renting is no longer acceptable....can we laugh and smile anymore? Or is it just down to serious business...?
So many people hit their mid life crisis now so much younger because we can only stand so long with out cracking a smile, letting our hair down, or driving without the wind in our hair! I feel like joy will no longer be a part of my life....not only that but my life will no longer be my life....
Hopefully this 30 business is just all in my head. For now I am going to make the most of my final year in my 20s. Going to Italy, killing myself to get to NC, getting an art show (and hopefully selling art or at least getting some commissions out there.) Be more artistically prolific...and find a job that allows me to get my art out or at least let my creativity shine through...or at least a job I can stomach for more than 2-3 years like my usual ones...
Ok so heres to making the most of 29!
30 just sounds like a whole lot of NO FUN! No more crazy road trips Drew and I used to just randomly embark on in our early 20s, renting is no longer acceptable....can we laugh and smile anymore? Or is it just down to serious business...?
So many people hit their mid life crisis now so much younger because we can only stand so long with out cracking a smile, letting our hair down, or driving without the wind in our hair! I feel like joy will no longer be a part of my life....not only that but my life will no longer be my life....
Hopefully this 30 business is just all in my head. For now I am going to make the most of my final year in my 20s. Going to Italy, killing myself to get to NC, getting an art show (and hopefully selling art or at least getting some commissions out there.) Be more artistically prolific...and find a job that allows me to get my art out or at least let my creativity shine through...or at least a job I can stomach for more than 2-3 years like my usual ones...
Ok so heres to making the most of 29!
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Yea for Beer....
Well never thought I would say that before.,...but there it is.
An upscale wine bar/brewery/restaurant called "the Brewers Art" is lookin for painters to hang their artwork, for free...no commission...in their dining room, and guess who got choosen!? I am meeting with them this weekend to figure out the details, and then I will have an opening sometime in may or june...exciting!!
Jess has been so nice to offer to help invite people there so its not just like Drew and I there alone at the bar...haha! She has lived here all her life, has a big family and I know can get bodies in the door if she asks :) Lucky to have found her...not just because shes becoming such a great friend, but Emmitt has never been happier having Ellie around to chew on hehehehe...
Speaking of, I have been working on an ocean scape. Its kinda your typical sandy beach, few clouds and beach chairs, but its for a friend, as payment for taking Emmitt and other things. Was soo beautiful out yesterday, I was totally inspired....lost track of time...good thing Drew emailed or I would have forgotten to get dinner together :) I love that its lighter later now, it was 8 and still light out last night....gorgeous rainbow and firy sunset after the thunderstorms we had!
Anyway, pics and more info to come once things get nailed down about the art show!!
An upscale wine bar/brewery/restaurant called "the Brewers Art" is lookin for painters to hang their artwork, for free...no commission...in their dining room, and guess who got choosen!? I am meeting with them this weekend to figure out the details, and then I will have an opening sometime in may or june...exciting!!
Jess has been so nice to offer to help invite people there so its not just like Drew and I there alone at the bar...haha! She has lived here all her life, has a big family and I know can get bodies in the door if she asks :) Lucky to have found her...not just because shes becoming such a great friend, but Emmitt has never been happier having Ellie around to chew on hehehehe...
Speaking of, I have been working on an ocean scape. Its kinda your typical sandy beach, few clouds and beach chairs, but its for a friend, as payment for taking Emmitt and other things. Was soo beautiful out yesterday, I was totally inspired....lost track of time...good thing Drew emailed or I would have forgotten to get dinner together :) I love that its lighter later now, it was 8 and still light out last night....gorgeous rainbow and firy sunset after the thunderstorms we had!
Anyway, pics and more info to come once things get nailed down about the art show!!
Monday, April 06, 2009
sadly no paintings sold...
Ahh it was so great Susie and Hilary thought of adding my paintings to the store for their "Spring Fling." Wasn't too surprised that nothing sold, however....
Though now that I have mounted a bunch of artwork, I am motivated to get other places to hang them and try to sell them around here! Would be great! Ugh gotta sell some paintings! I know I have sold some here and there when the economy was great...now I feel like its been such a dry spell...even Drew doesn't believe in my artwork anymore :( sad
somebody, please buy me....
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Morning Green Yogi Tea
"love is where compassion prevails and kindness rules"
At this time a few days ago I would be out running with Grace and Emmitt. I always love when my family comes to visit, but its never long enough. So nice to be up at 6 with someone else, and out running together, even if the pace was a bit slower haha...
Its so much more quiet and lonely here now. Drew is always at work or off in his own mind thinking about work. It was nice to have companionship, someone to talk to, to hang out with...we even went shopping, but not real shopping, we ran some errands, Erin tried some thing on at Old Navy, wow haven't been to a store in soooo long....I can't stand expensive places, gimme a target or old navy or marshalls or tj maxx where i can just buy some fun tshirt for $3.99 or something like that.
It was a good time, I just wish we lived closer so we could do it more often...Its funny Erin and Grace prob live 2 miles from eachother (ihave walked it many times before with them) just across the river from eachother.) however, they only see eachother when I see them....well maybe a bit more, but its usually when they both go home to visit my mom....curious. Maybe there are 3 of us because we are all such polar opposites we somehow all balance eachother out when we are together hahaha...just kidding.
Either way, it was a great surprise...so glad they decided to come down, if only for a few days. Tho they just left on wed, I miss them already :(
At this time a few days ago I would be out running with Grace and Emmitt. I always love when my family comes to visit, but its never long enough. So nice to be up at 6 with someone else, and out running together, even if the pace was a bit slower haha...
Its so much more quiet and lonely here now. Drew is always at work or off in his own mind thinking about work. It was nice to have companionship, someone to talk to, to hang out with...we even went shopping, but not real shopping, we ran some errands, Erin tried some thing on at Old Navy, wow haven't been to a store in soooo long....I can't stand expensive places, gimme a target or old navy or marshalls or tj maxx where i can just buy some fun tshirt for $3.99 or something like that.
It was a good time, I just wish we lived closer so we could do it more often...Its funny Erin and Grace prob live 2 miles from eachother (ihave walked it many times before with them) just across the river from eachother.) however, they only see eachother when I see them....well maybe a bit more, but its usually when they both go home to visit my mom....curious. Maybe there are 3 of us because we are all such polar opposites we somehow all balance eachother out when we are together hahaha...just kidding.
Either way, it was a great surprise...so glad they decided to come down, if only for a few days. Tho they just left on wed, I miss them already :(
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Bouncing off Clouds
Well thats the title of the music flavor of the moment. As I have written before, I get obsessed with songs...this one is just a happy go lucky kind of song by Tori Amos. It just makes me think of a happy sunny day outside...so its what I have been listening to lately (much to Drew's chagrin) He is NOT a fan of Tori. As a matter of fact, he downloaded the song for me, and in a note he wrote (I quote) "more than happy to download songs for you, but when I did the Tori songs, I think I threw up a little in my mouth..." haha funny boy...(eye roll here hahaha) Im just in a Tori mood, also been listening to her "raspberry swirl", "blue sky" and some others from the Choir Girl Hotel. I think I tend to like her more obscure songs than the ones on her main stream cds. I have no idea what albums these songs came off of, think they are sort of "B" side or unrleased songs. Very un-tori like if you are used to "under the pink" or something like that...they are almost techno like songs...happy quick bouncy, but still somehow moody songs.
So its been awhile since my last post, a few weeks anyway. Not too much to report. My parents came, had a good V-day weekend with them...they left, and when they left they also left a nasty chest cold I am still tring to get rid of. I hate being sick, its like being in a tired achy sickly cocoon where the world just kinda passes by and I dont want to do anything but sleep...blah! Hopefully it will leave me alone soon!!
Other than that, back to the usual, job searching, sending resumes, dreaming about houses and looking at real estate in NC. Doggie play dates with Ellie the chocolate lab next door...and back to taking Emmitt on runs now that its not too fridgid for him.
So its been awhile since my last post, a few weeks anyway. Not too much to report. My parents came, had a good V-day weekend with them...they left, and when they left they also left a nasty chest cold I am still tring to get rid of. I hate being sick, its like being in a tired achy sickly cocoon where the world just kinda passes by and I dont want to do anything but sleep...blah! Hopefully it will leave me alone soon!!
Other than that, back to the usual, job searching, sending resumes, dreaming about houses and looking at real estate in NC. Doggie play dates with Ellie the chocolate lab next door...and back to taking Emmitt on runs now that its not too fridgid for him.
Friday, February 13, 2009
Stranger things have happened.
So as I stated in my last blog, its been..well lets just say windy. The siding of the houses have been coming off and the gusts have been up to 65 mph! Needless to say I have been hiding out in the gym for fear of decapitation by cheap metal house siding. Now where I go to the gym I am basically the only little white girl, so the music is ahhh shall we say "ethnic." Nothing I ever listen to, I always wear my headphones when I go so I can block out the pounding of the ghetto music. Until recently....Now I have a very eccletic arrangement of music on my ipod. Thanks to growing up in the 80s and 90s I have everything from Color Me Badd, to Enya, to Flock of Seagulls and lots of "dance" house and techno music. Its happened now 4 times...when I look up from reading or whatever, the music in the gym is the same as the song playing on my ipod...maybe a few seconds off. First time it was the Cars, "you might think," then Color Me Badd "i wanna sex you up," and today Cut Copy...cant remember wich song...but it was STRANGE...how does that happen? Usually its like madonna, mariah carey, justin timberlake or lots of pop artists i dont know, and dont care to know that they play....it just strikes me as very very odd.
I did go on a short run today, let my legs and my mind wander. I realize I havent done what really "feeds" me...now everyone knows I like the outdoors, but what I truley love (and part of the draw to AZ) is going out in my car with a map up into the mts or the woods or somewhere realy remote to just explore and go on an adventure. My friends and I used to just go with my wagon (sowe could put the seats down,) food, water, hiking stuff and sleeping bags and drive into the mts and go hiking and swimming and exploring, sometimes fishing....There is nothing better (I think) than going to Colorado and sleeping out under the Milky Way...yes the sky is that clear. I miss those adventures....I mean I'm not a go to a resort and stay at a hotel and shop for vacation kind of girl....I think if Drew came to me and said..."lets just go away to the middle of nowhere Colorado or Montanna and explore" I would drop everything and go in a second! Nature, and the beauty of it just moves me.....I have been known to be stargazing or watching a beautiful sunset over mountains and just cry for the beauty of it....Oh I miss miss miss that...I hate hate hate the city...the archetecture, the streets, the people...Often when I am in teh city I get annoyed and think about how we have ruined the natural beauty of the earth by our ugly cement, cinder, and pavement. I think I am in some serious need of a road trip out west...who's with me (and yes, this means prob no nice showers...) hehehehe
I did go on a short run today, let my legs and my mind wander. I realize I havent done what really "feeds" me...now everyone knows I like the outdoors, but what I truley love (and part of the draw to AZ) is going out in my car with a map up into the mts or the woods or somewhere realy remote to just explore and go on an adventure. My friends and I used to just go with my wagon (sowe could put the seats down,) food, water, hiking stuff and sleeping bags and drive into the mts and go hiking and swimming and exploring, sometimes fishing....There is nothing better (I think) than going to Colorado and sleeping out under the Milky Way...yes the sky is that clear. I miss those adventures....I mean I'm not a go to a resort and stay at a hotel and shop for vacation kind of girl....I think if Drew came to me and said..."lets just go away to the middle of nowhere Colorado or Montanna and explore" I would drop everything and go in a second! Nature, and the beauty of it just moves me.....I have been known to be stargazing or watching a beautiful sunset over mountains and just cry for the beauty of it....Oh I miss miss miss that...I hate hate hate the city...the archetecture, the streets, the people...Often when I am in teh city I get annoyed and think about how we have ruined the natural beauty of the earth by our ugly cement, cinder, and pavement. I think I am in some serious need of a road trip out west...who's with me (and yes, this means prob no nice showers...) hehehehe
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Oh the wiiiiinnnnd!
Wow, can anyone believe this wind? We live in like a wind tunnel, the way they just leveled all the trees and then made streets with houses on both sides. Its brutal, thank goodness its warm. Emmitt and I had a quick jog around the neighborhoods here, he hated it as much as I. I assume he gets sand in his eyes too, cause I know I certainly do, and I'm at a much higher elevation off the ground than he. It kept me up all night, I love the sound of gentle wind thruough evergreen's like we have here...it started out pleasant, so I opened the windows to let it lull me to sleep...tho by the time Drew came to bed it was getting violent out there, and we had to shut the window. I could still hear it, hear the random branches breaking off, and things flying by the window.
Yea Hil, I hear ya about the sounds I am that way with smells too. Do you ever get the strong feelings of de ja vou? I often feel like situations I have already had in a dream. That whole week last year seemed surreal, and at the same time I sort of also felt like I had dreamt parts. That sunday you went with your dad in the ambulance, I woke up knowing I had to call the house, not Drew's cell phone, didn't even bother with thinking about what number to call, just automatically dialed the 717#, no hesitation or trying to remember it. It was like I called it often (tho prob hadn't since like 2001 or something. Very strange. I remember that whole week feeling pulled in random directions, and cant remember why I did or said things. Maybe it was just lack of sleep, too much emotion, stress or just the surreality of the situation....
Anyway, I am rambling now.
I am excited for the promise of spring, I always like to think of these winds and weird weather patterns as the warm weather's way of pushing its way back. Yesterday Drew and I took Emmitt on a nice run/walk and stayed out later than usual. I could smell the earth thawing, and feel soft warm air...it was almost 70 yesterday. Yeah for SPRING!
Yea Hil, I hear ya about the sounds I am that way with smells too. Do you ever get the strong feelings of de ja vou? I often feel like situations I have already had in a dream. That whole week last year seemed surreal, and at the same time I sort of also felt like I had dreamt parts. That sunday you went with your dad in the ambulance, I woke up knowing I had to call the house, not Drew's cell phone, didn't even bother with thinking about what number to call, just automatically dialed the 717#, no hesitation or trying to remember it. It was like I called it often (tho prob hadn't since like 2001 or something. Very strange. I remember that whole week feeling pulled in random directions, and cant remember why I did or said things. Maybe it was just lack of sleep, too much emotion, stress or just the surreality of the situation....
Anyway, I am rambling now.
I am excited for the promise of spring, I always like to think of these winds and weird weather patterns as the warm weather's way of pushing its way back. Yesterday Drew and I took Emmitt on a nice run/walk and stayed out later than usual. I could smell the earth thawing, and feel soft warm air...it was almost 70 yesterday. Yeah for SPRING!
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
68 is Grrreat!
Wow 68 degrees....Emmitt was in love! He was so chill on our walk, I practically had to pull him along, all he wanted to do way lay in the sun anywhere he could! haha.
I opened our door, and he just slept in the sun, waking only to watch whatever was moving go by. He was in heaven! Such a good dog too, didn't move an inch when he saw a car or person go by. Unfortunately there are so many kids under 3 in the neighborhood, all outside now too...so I had to close the door. Hes not happy with me, he is laying by the front door waiting for me to open it again....not gonna happen dog! You make the kids nervous! Plus they Loooove his tail, its so enticing. The three year old next door got a hold of it, pretty quickly. He has a spaniel, so no tail to pull there. He saw Emmitt's and grabbed it as fast as he could! haha. Fortunately for just that reason I pull his tail so he's not so startled by it. He jsut sorta gave the little boy (harry) a wet nose nudge..good thing I'm such a child! hehe.
I opened our door, and he just slept in the sun, waking only to watch whatever was moving go by. He was in heaven! Such a good dog too, didn't move an inch when he saw a car or person go by. Unfortunately there are so many kids under 3 in the neighborhood, all outside now too...so I had to close the door. Hes not happy with me, he is laying by the front door waiting for me to open it again....not gonna happen dog! You make the kids nervous! Plus they Loooove his tail, its so enticing. The three year old next door got a hold of it, pretty quickly. He has a spaniel, so no tail to pull there. He saw Emmitt's and grabbed it as fast as he could! haha. Fortunately for just that reason I pull his tail so he's not so startled by it. He jsut sorta gave the little boy (harry) a wet nose nudge..good thing I'm such a child! hehe.
Saturday, February 07, 2009
Boo for the Flu!
Ugh, nothing I hate more than being sick! Yesterday at 4 I started to get dizzy, and feel all weird. Pounding headache, and that urge to be sick everywhere! I laid down on the couch until about 8pm, finally felt ok enough to head to bed...of course this morning, wonderful surprise...I got my period on top of it...so headache backache dizzyness and just absolute exhaustion! Like I needed both at the same time! Oh well, i usually hav to get this at least one time a year...so hopefully this is my yearly sickness! Its nice out so I can go groan outside in the sun :)
On the plus side, my parents have decided to come visit next weekend for 3 days! yeah! I know I saw them in dec, but it always feels like FOREVER!!
On the plus side, my parents have decided to come visit next weekend for 3 days! yeah! I know I saw them in dec, but it always feels like FOREVER!!
Thursday, February 05, 2009
Sniff it, sniff it good...
This is a little tidbit of information you all might not know, Drew is a singer/songwriter at heart. Usually he doesn't stray from singing my name, singing about things I do or say or wear....Though lately he has been singing about Emmitts unusual habits.
Emmitt tends to be a connoisseur of poop spots. He may be freezing his little tail off, but he can't go until he finds just the right one..So last night it was cold (oh what shocker) and Emmitt had to go BAD! He was nearly bursting, but he refused to just go..so he sniffs the ground as he practically runs down the sidewalk insearch of the perfect place to soil.
So to the tune of Devo's "whip it" Drew started singing....if your walkin down the stree...he will sniff it, every dog butt that he meet's he will sniff it...now sniff it, sniff it good....and so on, the song went as long as the walk for Emmitt to relieve himself took...just more and more lines about the dog sniffing trees, and knees...etc...hahaha!
Emmitt, you are a nut!! But we looove you :)
Emmitt tends to be a connoisseur of poop spots. He may be freezing his little tail off, but he can't go until he finds just the right one..So last night it was cold (oh what shocker) and Emmitt had to go BAD! He was nearly bursting, but he refused to just go..so he sniffs the ground as he practically runs down the sidewalk insearch of the perfect place to soil.
So to the tune of Devo's "whip it" Drew started singing....if your walkin down the stree...he will sniff it, every dog butt that he meet's he will sniff it...now sniff it, sniff it good....and so on, the song went as long as the walk for Emmitt to relieve himself took...just more and more lines about the dog sniffing trees, and knees...etc...hahaha!
Emmitt, you are a nut!! But we looove you :)
Wednesday, February 04, 2009
Yogi Tea for the heart
Well in the spirit of Valentine's month, I have been getting a few "heart felt" (hehe) yogi-teaisms.
"Every heartbeat creates a miracle."
"Your heartbeat is the rhythm of your soul"
and finally,
"There is no love without compassion."
And thats Yogi for today :) mmmm tea.
"Every heartbeat creates a miracle."
"Your heartbeat is the rhythm of your soul"
and finally,
"There is no love without compassion."
And thats Yogi for today :) mmmm tea.
Monday, February 02, 2009
Holy testicle Tuesday (ok monday)
Wow, are Emmitt and I lucky or what?! Two beautiful days in a row...I can only hope it stays like this...I mean comon, its groundhogs day, doesnt that count for anything??
I obviously remember this time last year, it was definitely cold and windy and icy (among other things.)
I was thinking today, on a long doggie walk, about everything thats happened since we moved here. My parents warnings not to move to "Baltimurder" for fear I would be shot/mugged/raped/haave my car broken into etc...and how much I hated it, hated my life, hated my 4 freakin hr commute, hated my loans, hated missing my family, hated the cold and the uglyness of the area hated hate hated...I can remember times on my runs just wanting to throw myself into oncoming traffic, or jump off one of the bridges I run over into the next county over...but always holding onto hope that things would get better.
I remember falling and breaking my elbow and not being able to paint murals anymore, and not wanting to leave the confines of my apartment...ever for several months.
This time of year has always seemed hard for me. Christmas and New Year's passed, no more fun holidays...the snow and ice wearing on my nerves, losing my papa, my closest aunt, and most recently John all during the first 2 months of Feb....pretty random...apparently people should stay faaarrr away from me in Feb..haha
Anyway, I'm not sure why I was thinking about all these things...maybe just since the sun felt so good I could allow them into my consciousness with out getting too upset, the sun always makes me smile.
Either way, I'm happy I never acted upon any attempts to end my life...there's just too many sunny days that I need to experience.
Sunday, February 01, 2009
short post...
My blog for the day is...whoohooo
rachel yogi says if its 60....go out, and don't go back inside...
theres sun and warmth now, but tomorrow may bring snow!!!
rachel yogi says if its 60....go out, and don't go back inside...
theres sun and warmth now, but tomorrow may bring snow!!!
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Today's tea wisdom
This afternoon's tea is a mix of green tea and licorice, lemon teas. mmmm
"When you stop living for the past, you can start living for a better future."
"To learn, read. To know, write. To master, teach."
"When you stop living for the past, you can start living for a better future."
"To learn, read. To know, write. To master, teach."
Friday, January 30, 2009
Yogi Tea says...
So I drink this ginger tea every night after walking the dog..It has little sayings on the teabags. Thought I would share.
"you should be thankful for every day there is breath in you."
"True bliss cannot be disturbed by gain or loss."
Now Im gonna go drink and get warm! BRRR!
"you should be thankful for every day there is breath in you."
"True bliss cannot be disturbed by gain or loss."
Now Im gonna go drink and get warm! BRRR!
Mystery Meat Creation
Ok, so we all know I don't eat "meat," Drew calls it my "no hooves policy." I will eat fish and fowl. I.E. many types of fish, most seafood chicken and turkey. I prefer to get my protein ala beans, dairy, tofu and its products.
So Drew decides he misses pot roast. Ok, got that...I admit I totally cheated and bought it premade. However, now we have left overs..what to do with that? Well I know Emmitts votes to let him eat them all...oh my good gracious last night he was so giddy at the smell of it he didnt know what to do with himself...kept racing into his crate and then out again haha!
Anyway so drew got a wrap with rice and pot roast for lunch the other day..that was a hit.
Today we are trying something new. I made a roux with some of the juices from the roast, added onion and potato to it, then the pot roast. Then got out like a whole wheat pizza dough and put it all inside like a little calzone like pocket. I hope my expirament will pass his picky tastebud test!!
If not, I'll give it to the dog! :)
So Drew decides he misses pot roast. Ok, got that...I admit I totally cheated and bought it premade. However, now we have left overs..what to do with that? Well I know Emmitts votes to let him eat them all...oh my good gracious last night he was so giddy at the smell of it he didnt know what to do with himself...kept racing into his crate and then out again haha!
Anyway so drew got a wrap with rice and pot roast for lunch the other day..that was a hit.
Today we are trying something new. I made a roux with some of the juices from the roast, added onion and potato to it, then the pot roast. Then got out like a whole wheat pizza dough and put it all inside like a little calzone like pocket. I hope my expirament will pass his picky tastebud test!!
If not, I'll give it to the dog! :)
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Hmm what to say..
Funny thing about dogs, they always look so expressive. You can't see it, but his paws are right near the heater, so when he puts his head down his nose will be down the vent..haha
He's not too impressed with the ice outside. Though he has a very good friend now, Ellie. They take walks at night, and play in the afternoons. He saw her this morning when he was going out to do his "thing." Usually he just goes and then wants to come right back in for breakfast! Not today though! He's really good, I let him off the leash now with out worries at the park up the street, he doesnt get too far from me. However, this morning, he was half way up the street, well on his way up to give Ellie a good morning hello sniff...haha! Good thing food always wins over his attention! Ahh to be as simple as a dog, the mere though of food makes his mouth water....literally. Yesterday I was out shoveling Drew's car a bit before I came in to give him breakfast. He had psyched himself up so much for food that when i walked in the door, he lifted his head, and drolled big slobbery lines of spit all over the floor (hes not a drooly dog, I had actually never seen this happen before) Now we play "hide and seek" with his afternoon snacks. He drools for that. He sits and waits in the kitchen while I hide Emmitt food all over the house. Then I say "find your treats" and hes off nose to the floor!
Its just some more Emmittainment!
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Get out your ice skates!
Ahh wonderful not only did we get snow, but we got lots of ice on top! I got up at 6:30 this morning, chipped it off our steps, and our walk way...only to find Emmitt couldn't pee because his paws kept slipping out from under him every time he went to squat. So I had to shovel and chip the front yard hahaha! Shoveled him a nice little potty. While I was at it, decided to chip off all the snow from Drew's car. I really needed a pick axe, so much ice on that thing, and solid! I noticed that I was the only person out there, aside from the cop that lives up the street...hmmm curious?
I'm sure every neighbor was groaning to the sound of my metal shovel chipping and pinging off the ice and concrete.
So Maryland shuts down when theres snow with ice on top...interesting...
Derw is up in bed pretending that he wont have a hard time getting out of our parking lot. the plow piled all the snow up behind everyone's cars...and then it iced on top...fun stuff!
well one can only hope that spring will be on the way soon...tho that means moving AGAIN!! ahh! We will have to move the end of May or June...last time it took weeks! Hopefully not again, this rental agreement expires in June! We might be moving instead of going to SF :(
I'm sure every neighbor was groaning to the sound of my metal shovel chipping and pinging off the ice and concrete.
So Maryland shuts down when theres snow with ice on top...interesting...
Derw is up in bed pretending that he wont have a hard time getting out of our parking lot. the plow piled all the snow up behind everyone's cars...and then it iced on top...fun stuff!
well one can only hope that spring will be on the way soon...tho that means moving AGAIN!! ahh! We will have to move the end of May or June...last time it took weeks! Hopefully not again, this rental agreement expires in June! We might be moving instead of going to SF :(
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Did it snow this much last year?
Hmm, I can't remember.
They salt or chemical the side walks here, think it burns Emmitt's poor little puppy pads. Makes for very short, very stop and go and clean off his feet walks. He is currently wrapped around the heating vent letting the hot air blow his ears.
As for me, my run was a bust, so I decided to shovel out everyone's walk ways and the neighborhood sidewalks. That counts as physical activity right?
On the plus side, Emmitt and I have made friends...her name is Ellie shes a chocolate lab. The girl is Jess. Very nice, very laid back, shes a lacross coach at one of the local private girls' schools. We meet for lunch and evening doggie dates now, Emmitt is very happy to play. I am happy to have a female around from time to time :) She and her husband, joe, live 4 doors down from us. Her husband is currently in grad school, so I remember what its like to be home alone all night...I know she likes having Emmitt and I around to walk with at night.
Sooo back to more snow. I just wish we could get out of this weather pattern. I like when we are in the southernly weather pattern, where the wind comes up from the south, not this pattern where it comes from the north west. All I can do is hope for more sunny days, even though I know they will be cold for another few months...
They salt or chemical the side walks here, think it burns Emmitt's poor little puppy pads. Makes for very short, very stop and go and clean off his feet walks. He is currently wrapped around the heating vent letting the hot air blow his ears.
As for me, my run was a bust, so I decided to shovel out everyone's walk ways and the neighborhood sidewalks. That counts as physical activity right?
On the plus side, Emmitt and I have made friends...her name is Ellie shes a chocolate lab. The girl is Jess. Very nice, very laid back, shes a lacross coach at one of the local private girls' schools. We meet for lunch and evening doggie dates now, Emmitt is very happy to play. I am happy to have a female around from time to time :) She and her husband, joe, live 4 doors down from us. Her husband is currently in grad school, so I remember what its like to be home alone all night...I know she likes having Emmitt and I around to walk with at night.
Sooo back to more snow. I just wish we could get out of this weather pattern. I like when we are in the southernly weather pattern, where the wind comes up from the south, not this pattern where it comes from the north west. All I can do is hope for more sunny days, even though I know they will be cold for another few months...
Monday, January 26, 2009
The Music of my Life
So I can't remember what Drew and I were talking about, but somehow we got into a conversation about music...Oh wait, just remembered how we got into that conversation...anyway, this is a PG site...so how we got there isn't important. I realize I am plugged into music at all times.
As long as I can remember I loved music. I begged my parents at age 10 to get me my own stereo. When I finally was allowed to have one, I put all my saved money into it...My dad said he would match whatever amount I could spare. Now I'm a saver with a capitol "S"...so I got a good system. I listened on the bus on the way to school, at home doing homework, bus rides to soccer and track, walking to and from college classes, (in some classes as well)...always painting and drawing, and not only listening to music while I did that, but also illustrated things I saw in my mind when I listened to a particular song. Basically I guess I would say that the only time I don't have music on somewhere when I am sleeping, I will even listen sometimes while watching tv, (I know...weird)
heck, I even listen to music in the shower :)
As I sit here, I am listing to my Ipod touch....currently Peter Gabriel's "games without frontiers"
My musical taste has changed, but really only to add more, I listened to this song wayyy back when it came out when I was in middle school.
Its interesting, most people like music...gotta jam to something while working out, or sitting in traffic...but I have discovered not everyone could listen to music all day long no matter what they are doing. My sister Eryn shares this obsession of music with me...Many of my art school friends as well...not Drew, he needs quiet sometimes...not my mom or dad, or Grace, same thing for them...
It makes me wonder if its at all creative/art related or just some people do....?
My parents even bought Eryn and I water proof radios for the shower so we dont electrocute ourselves when we listen.
It kills me not to listen to music...and not just any type of music, I have to have the right type of music for each mood or activity.
Quiet for when I get tired, I can listen to Bach or some other classical music....NIN for my really pissed off moods...techno or dance for my runs or when I paint....sad or angry music when I am upset...
Does everyone else have an immediate association with each song they hear? Every song I hear evokes emotions from every and any time of my life.
Some makes me think of when I was 2 at my dads races....mostly phil collins and the Police...
Some of my grandfather, usually Nat King Cole or Frank Sinatra. I can close my eyes and smell him...aftershave with coffee and cigaretts...hear his booming voice, see their old house, and remember how I used to feel...
Is this the same for everyone?
As long as I can remember I loved music. I begged my parents at age 10 to get me my own stereo. When I finally was allowed to have one, I put all my saved money into it...My dad said he would match whatever amount I could spare. Now I'm a saver with a capitol "S"...so I got a good system. I listened on the bus on the way to school, at home doing homework, bus rides to soccer and track, walking to and from college classes, (in some classes as well)...always painting and drawing, and not only listening to music while I did that, but also illustrated things I saw in my mind when I listened to a particular song. Basically I guess I would say that the only time I don't have music on somewhere when I am sleeping, I will even listen sometimes while watching tv, (I know...weird)
heck, I even listen to music in the shower :)
As I sit here, I am listing to my Ipod touch....currently Peter Gabriel's "games without frontiers"
My musical taste has changed, but really only to add more, I listened to this song wayyy back when it came out when I was in middle school.
Its interesting, most people like music...gotta jam to something while working out, or sitting in traffic...but I have discovered not everyone could listen to music all day long no matter what they are doing. My sister Eryn shares this obsession of music with me...Many of my art school friends as well...not Drew, he needs quiet sometimes...not my mom or dad, or Grace, same thing for them...
It makes me wonder if its at all creative/art related or just some people do....?
My parents even bought Eryn and I water proof radios for the shower so we dont electrocute ourselves when we listen.
It kills me not to listen to music...and not just any type of music, I have to have the right type of music for each mood or activity.
Quiet for when I get tired, I can listen to Bach or some other classical music....NIN for my really pissed off moods...techno or dance for my runs or when I paint....sad or angry music when I am upset...
Does everyone else have an immediate association with each song they hear? Every song I hear evokes emotions from every and any time of my life.
Some makes me think of when I was 2 at my dads races....mostly phil collins and the Police...
Some of my grandfather, usually Nat King Cole or Frank Sinatra. I can close my eyes and smell him...aftershave with coffee and cigaretts...hear his booming voice, see their old house, and remember how I used to feel...
Is this the same for everyone?
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Yea for the sun!
Guaranteed this is what he's doing now..Yea for the sun! Emmitt and I just got back from an hr and thirty min walk/game of fetch in the park. Hes so much happier and to play and calmer when we get play and run around. Love the sun.
On another note, I am now going to be an undergrad student again....I am taking Intro to Asian Art. I figure I can only gain more art history knowledge, cant hurt...and the best is its FREE! Just call me Erin Bell :)
Updated Emmittainment
Well days are getting longer, and thank god...warmer! Or at least for the next few days it will be. Emmitt has found himself a new source of entertainment. He has pretty much figured out how the day will go, with a few changes here and there. So when I start to make dinner, he knows Drew will be along soon. He can see out the door, and can see out the front windows because I usually close the shades part way so people walking by arent looking right in. He listens and can hear people and cars go by, and every time he runs up the steps and looks out the top windows for Drew. Then he runs back down to greet him at the door. He does think whenever either one of us comes or goes. When I go running on the weekends in the morning when Drew is still in bed. I look up at the top windows and theres Emmitt with his little paws up on the window sill looking out at me. I wave, and then I'm off. Its good though, he used to whine when I left, now he knows....I'll be back.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
SOO not fair!
Ok, I know I'm getting pretty whiny now, but comon! its like 1out again. I know January and the beginning of Feb are always the nastiest months, but this is getting ridiculous! Fortunately emmitt is comfortable enough with us now that he doesnt have all that nervous energy like he did when we first adopted him. Hes happy just to sleep in the sun room or at my feet, but he gets pretty excited whenever we try to play. I know he is hoping for summer soon. Lastnight we got outside, we let him out to pee in the yard unleashed, so he can sniff around...then we put on the leash after 5-10 min. so we can walk around the neighborhood. We just barely got it on and walked a few steps when he did his business, and then wanted to go home. Much different from the warm weather when he holds off until its been 40 min into the walk because he wants to go outside and play. Oh summer come soon!
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
This Morning's Emmittrainment.
Emmitt hates the cold as much as I. The last few days I have noticed he has been interested the the heat registers on the floor. Yesterday he kept laying on them, and letting the warm air blow his ears up. Today he has realized the cheap ones they have here are not screwed into the floor, so now he digs them up, takes the covers off, and sticks his whole head down the heat vent so he can get the maximum heat in his face...hahah! So funny. Drew kept finding the heat covers off all over the house...now we have found the culperate. Hopefully he will not try to crawl down there and get stuck! The heat is great, glad he's figured out how to stay warm, but don't too excited about the heat source there Emmitt!
Weather not helping my resolution
Well this stupid weather is not helping motivate me. I can't say that the cold gets me, its the cold/wind/ice/snow combo that makes me want to slither off to the gym and forget all about the outdoors. Just like Hil, I too was not expecting snow, same thing..."light flurries" However, I ran hard all weekend and decided to take an easy day at the gym. I always bring books, so I get totally involved in my reading...after a while I looked up, and was shocked to see accumulated snow on the ground!
Last night they salted the side walks, but not the streets?! They didnt even plow?! I dont get it?? The stuff they put on teh side walks burns our dogs feet apparently. We HAD to walk Emmitt...and every dog we passed was picking up their foot limping just like Em. We kept having to stop and brush off his paws so he would lick the ice melt and get sick. It was a short walk.
I am missing my doggie runs, and walks, this weather sucks!
More than that, I am missing my runs...Go away snow and cold!!!!
Last night they salted the side walks, but not the streets?! They didnt even plow?! I dont get it?? The stuff they put on teh side walks burns our dogs feet apparently. We HAD to walk Emmitt...and every dog we passed was picking up their foot limping just like Em. We kept having to stop and brush off his paws so he would lick the ice melt and get sick. It was a short walk.
I am missing my doggie runs, and walks, this weather sucks!
More than that, I am missing my runs...Go away snow and cold!!!!
Monday, January 19, 2009
More Emmittainment
So as we all know, winter is cold...our house is older, not well insulated, and pretty drafty. We wear slippers because the floor is very cold. The poor dog has to lay on the floor (per drews rules) and he was chilly this weekend. We tried to tape up all the cracks in the door and windows with some insulation tape, but to little avail. Anyway, so Emmitt has been trying to get onto the couch with me to cuddle and warm up. I have no qualms with it, but can't go against Drew's wishes, so I reluctantly keep pushing him off the couch and get his pillow for him to sleep on ...or I drape my blanket onto him. This sat was espically chilly..
Emmitt was at my feet sleeping on his pillow, and Drew was going out with friends. Drew came and said goodbye, got his coat...and went to the door (Emmitt meanwhile opened one eye and watched this) pretending to be asleep...the minute the door closed and locked, he was up..peeked around the corner, turned around and launched himself onto my lap...SOOO funny. He knows I'm a softie...Cracked me up for a good 5 min, I had to call Drew...hehehehe
Emmitt was at my feet sleeping on his pillow, and Drew was going out with friends. Drew came and said goodbye, got his coat...and went to the door (Emmitt meanwhile opened one eye and watched this) pretending to be asleep...the minute the door closed and locked, he was up..peeked around the corner, turned around and launched himself onto my lap...SOOO funny. He knows I'm a softie...Cracked me up for a good 5 min, I had to call Drew...hehehehe
Saturday, January 17, 2009
A Ray of light in a Place of Darkness
So, after 5 years of rude people, no eye contact, or eye rolling, ignoring me, or only talking to us if something is needed...something so out of the ordinary happened...I think I reacted wrong. I was sitting on the couch last night, having my tea before my shower, thinking about how damn cold it is, and would home depot have more insulation tape so we can insulate more of our doors and windows that are oh so drafty...when knock knock knock...
What? did I hear that right...oh crap, what are we doing wrong now...The last time someone knocked it was to complain that the "for rent" sign was still up in front of our place. Emmitt was OUT he never heard the knock, so i tentatively opened the door...and there were our 4 neighbors. Erin, David, and their 2 young boys (prob under 5 each) The older of the two boys proudly held out some oatmeal raisin walnut cookies they had baked and proclaimed, "welcome to the neighborhood" I was flabbergasted! Did not expect that! I had briefly met them outside one morning letting Emmitt out, and exchanged hellos with Erin.
I asked the boy if he had made them himself, and he said "yes'! "well my mom helped too.." how cute.
Finally Emmitt awoke and decided to come and be the "mean gaurd dog " he is...hahaha he barked, and I had to close the door. I hope I see them again, what a thoughtful thing to do....plus the cookies were YUMMY!!
What? did I hear that right...oh crap, what are we doing wrong now...The last time someone knocked it was to complain that the "for rent" sign was still up in front of our place. Emmitt was OUT he never heard the knock, so i tentatively opened the door...and there were our 4 neighbors. Erin, David, and their 2 young boys (prob under 5 each) The older of the two boys proudly held out some oatmeal raisin walnut cookies they had baked and proclaimed, "welcome to the neighborhood" I was flabbergasted! Did not expect that! I had briefly met them outside one morning letting Emmitt out, and exchanged hellos with Erin.
I asked the boy if he had made them himself, and he said "yes'! "well my mom helped too.." how cute.
Finally Emmitt awoke and decided to come and be the "mean gaurd dog " he is...hahaha he barked, and I had to close the door. I hope I see them again, what a thoughtful thing to do....plus the cookies were YUMMY!!
Friday, January 16, 2009
Fear and loathing in the Mill..
So let me tell you a little story. We moved onto Lockard drive and into a house about a month and 1/2 ago. Usually we are in a condo or apartment on the second floor or higher, so have never really been concerned with break ins. Aboutt a month ago, after having been here a few weeks, we went to take the dog for a walk about 7:30 pm. I'm not going to say names, but someone who is notorious for locking us out (yes we had to go rent a ladder and break into our own condo last summer) locked us out...Crap, we are renting, the agency is about 40 min away, and thats fine...if we had phones or knew the number to call?! So panic insues for a few min. Then my brave "friend" who got us in this conundroum in the first place has a moment of "ah ha!" and runs around the back. Not 5 min later he is opening the door...how did that happen? Apparently our sliding door doesnt really lock, he just pulled hard and it opened...good for us....oh wait, bad for us?! People in our neighborhood are broken into, raped, killed, threatened...and now for the first time, we coudl be too. I tried not to think abo t it that night. Around 3 am, however, I couldnt sleep...so I got up and tore through the house looking for something to wedge in between the door and the wall. Finally I remembered the plunger and pulled it apart and put that sturdy dowel in the track of the sliding door and tested it myself....phew .....
Lastnight, we were hearing noises again...Now I know my dowel will probably hold firm, but just incase, now that we are open to rapings and pilliagings....he barracaded the door that connects the basement from the kitchen...just in case! How much longer will I get to live in fear of every freakin noise in this "lovely" state?!?!
Lastnight, we were hearing noises again...Now I know my dowel will probably hold firm, but just incase, now that we are open to rapings and pilliagings....he barracaded the door that connects the basement from the kitchen...just in case! How much longer will I get to live in fear of every freakin noise in this "lovely" state?!?!
what the F*!?
Let me just start by saying....8 with a wind chill of -5?! Hello...how do I walk a dog in that?!?!?? Isnt this why I moved out of MA?! This is the typical winter weather of Westford MA that drove me thousands of miles, and several degrees south to college in Tucson!! Ba Humbug!
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Little pupsicle..
I suppose by this time I should edit this blog to include Emmitt in it...
Anyway, funny dog this morning. So he hasnt seen snow since we were last in MA, so he might associate the snow with driving in the car 8 hrs on drugs...But this morning we got a very light dusting, must hav been about 5 am. It was so cold, however, that the snow didnt stick and was that powdery stuff that swirls in the wind. So Emmitt sniffed, and the snow moved, and he jumped....His fur went up, and he kept looking back at me (usually first thing in the morning I just let him out the front door and he does his doggie business) I watch from the doorway. He just didnt want to go this morning, and I could tell he NEEDED to go! haha
Finally after much licking, jumping, and turning circles he eliminated. Phew. Poor guy, I mean its 11 out with the windchill...no one wants their ass exposed to that! So glad he got over his fear of going when its cold! haha
Hes quite an oddity in the morning, much like us, he wakes every morning and stretches, he yawns, rubs himself like a cat on my legs to say goodmorning, then flips on his back for a good belly rub. Once i am finished, he then rights himself, only to rub his little paws on his eyes (again very cat like) getting the sleepies out of his eyes and licking his paws clean. When we first adopted him we thought he had fleas or something because sometimes he also dries his face on the carpet after ridding himself of his sleepys...
Animals are funny, great to bring some hilarity to our lives. I cant tell you how many times Drew and I have laughed ourselves silly at the expense of the dog doing his usual dog stuff! love my Emmittainment!
Anyway, funny dog this morning. So he hasnt seen snow since we were last in MA, so he might associate the snow with driving in the car 8 hrs on drugs...But this morning we got a very light dusting, must hav been about 5 am. It was so cold, however, that the snow didnt stick and was that powdery stuff that swirls in the wind. So Emmitt sniffed, and the snow moved, and he jumped....His fur went up, and he kept looking back at me (usually first thing in the morning I just let him out the front door and he does his doggie business) I watch from the doorway. He just didnt want to go this morning, and I could tell he NEEDED to go! haha
Finally after much licking, jumping, and turning circles he eliminated. Phew. Poor guy, I mean its 11 out with the windchill...no one wants their ass exposed to that! So glad he got over his fear of going when its cold! haha
Hes quite an oddity in the morning, much like us, he wakes every morning and stretches, he yawns, rubs himself like a cat on my legs to say goodmorning, then flips on his back for a good belly rub. Once i am finished, he then rights himself, only to rub his little paws on his eyes (again very cat like) getting the sleepies out of his eyes and licking his paws clean. When we first adopted him we thought he had fleas or something because sometimes he also dries his face on the carpet after ridding himself of his sleepys...
Animals are funny, great to bring some hilarity to our lives. I cant tell you how many times Drew and I have laughed ourselves silly at the expense of the dog doing his usual dog stuff! love my Emmittainment!
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Baby its cold, outside...
Brr, well that was a brisk run if i do say so myself! I get the most bizarre looks when I am out there in the mornings. I just think to myself "hey I could be at home where its like -4....so 7 isnt too bad. Some guy at the gym (where i go to warm up and stretch afterwards) made some comment that I must not be from around here since I didn't look too cold. I wanted to tell him that if you moved your ass fast enough and dress appropriately for the weather, it really wasnt that bad to exercise in. Not that I would advocate just going outside in a tshirt and just hanging out on ur porch or anything.
I actually was hot by the time I got back from my run...
Walking the dog, well thats another story. We keep our pace up pretty quick, hes not a walker, hes more of a trotter or a runner....so I wasnt totally frozen, but was no Arizona! hehe
Yesterday the doggie got himself back into that disguesting dead animal again! Man I dunno what it is about that. Hes so great off the leash now (as long as we are away from lots of people and traffic) We were out in the woods playing fetch, having a great time...I let him roam into the woods and call him back when I start feeling like hes too far off, or catching a scent...so anyway I saw him getting all excited about something...lo and behold he had found some nasty dead deer he was rolling himself in...ugh! He was covered in just black decay, and so proud of himself....until he remembered that we humans dont like that smell....i was so tempted to toss him in the stream nearby, but knew it was too cold for that!
We basically ran (one of us with our tails between our legs) home and had a nice bath. Unfortnately he still kinda stinks...tho he has been behaving ever so well yesterday and today..haha!
I guess thats one of the pitfalls of dogownershit....hahah i mean ship! Happy tail wagging :)
I actually was hot by the time I got back from my run...
Walking the dog, well thats another story. We keep our pace up pretty quick, hes not a walker, hes more of a trotter or a runner....so I wasnt totally frozen, but was no Arizona! hehe
Yesterday the doggie got himself back into that disguesting dead animal again! Man I dunno what it is about that. Hes so great off the leash now (as long as we are away from lots of people and traffic) We were out in the woods playing fetch, having a great time...I let him roam into the woods and call him back when I start feeling like hes too far off, or catching a scent...so anyway I saw him getting all excited about something...lo and behold he had found some nasty dead deer he was rolling himself in...ugh! He was covered in just black decay, and so proud of himself....until he remembered that we humans dont like that smell....i was so tempted to toss him in the stream nearby, but knew it was too cold for that!
We basically ran (one of us with our tails between our legs) home and had a nice bath. Unfortnately he still kinda stinks...tho he has been behaving ever so well yesterday and today..haha!
I guess thats one of the pitfalls of dogownershit....hahah i mean ship! Happy tail wagging :)
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Running update
Well I know January isn't the time of year to resolve myself to get back into distance running, but oh well. I have to say I have been feeling SOOOO much better than I have in the last almost 3 months since I stopped going on long runs. Ahh so so good.
So it lets me get back to thinking, organizing my brain, and being able to be in a good mood to entertain Drew and try to keep him happy.
I have noticed the last hmm I dunno few months even since we didn't get to move to NC and change jobs hes been in a particularly foul mood. He HATES his work so much. Its not even that he doesnt like the mundane day to day crap. He has a shitty boss who is nasty and just dismissive of him, he is too nice to say no to helping people...and since everyone knows that he gets piles of other peoples shit dumped on him...without even a thanks. He always tries to do things for people, get gifts for new moms, cards for bdays, take people out, I made everyone cookies for christmas; that sort of thing. And then yesterday, he didnt even get so much as the typical bday gathering. He got a cookie...that was it...Poor bebs!
It was such a let down almost having that new job, almost having a house, almost being able to start a family and start a real life....just to have it all dashed by one little phone call saying he didnt get chosen for the job.
Neither of us are happy here, its like we are just waiting for death to come take us at this point. Well maybe thats a wee bit dramatic, but we havent been doing much but sleep eat work run errands...We both feel so so trapped, no way to get out of this HELL hole of a state!
We discussed having a family at dinner the other night...basically if we dont get out of Maryland, we have decided we will never have children. Its just not right to have them in a place where they will get beaten by the other 6 yr olds, or raped, or stabbed, and maybe not even learn to read by the time they are 15...unless we shell out that 20K a year just to get them into private kindergarten! Looks like its just gonna be me Drew and the dog...so long kids! BOO!
Does anyone have any contacts down in Chapel Hill...looking for an art teacher and a computer database worker with his MBA!?
So it lets me get back to thinking, organizing my brain, and being able to be in a good mood to entertain Drew and try to keep him happy.
I have noticed the last hmm I dunno few months even since we didn't get to move to NC and change jobs hes been in a particularly foul mood. He HATES his work so much. Its not even that he doesnt like the mundane day to day crap. He has a shitty boss who is nasty and just dismissive of him, he is too nice to say no to helping people...and since everyone knows that he gets piles of other peoples shit dumped on him...without even a thanks. He always tries to do things for people, get gifts for new moms, cards for bdays, take people out, I made everyone cookies for christmas; that sort of thing. And then yesterday, he didnt even get so much as the typical bday gathering. He got a cookie...that was it...Poor bebs!
It was such a let down almost having that new job, almost having a house, almost being able to start a family and start a real life....just to have it all dashed by one little phone call saying he didnt get chosen for the job.
Neither of us are happy here, its like we are just waiting for death to come take us at this point. Well maybe thats a wee bit dramatic, but we havent been doing much but sleep eat work run errands...We both feel so so trapped, no way to get out of this HELL hole of a state!
We discussed having a family at dinner the other night...basically if we dont get out of Maryland, we have decided we will never have children. Its just not right to have them in a place where they will get beaten by the other 6 yr olds, or raped, or stabbed, and maybe not even learn to read by the time they are 15...unless we shell out that 20K a year just to get them into private kindergarten! Looks like its just gonna be me Drew and the dog...so long kids! BOO!
Does anyone have any contacts down in Chapel Hill...looking for an art teacher and a computer database worker with his MBA!?
Thursday, January 08, 2009
Day 1 of "back to running"
So it figures, I woke up today with a resolve to get up and RUN...until I got out of bed and the CRAMPS struck! UGH how I hate being a girl sometimes! So i got my ass in gear, got the dog out, fed him etc and went out to run. Brr cold...so as im settling into a long run, while trying to ignore my aching ovaries...I see it, the darkest snow laden cloud on the horizon.... Growing up in New England you learn types of snow clouds by color. This one was dark and coming fast, which meant high winds and horizontal snow. Just my luck. Fortunately it was a very fast, relatively small cloud. By the end of my run, the sun came out, the clouds blew away, and it was "nice out" I use the quotes because its still below freezing, so with all things being even and its the winter...sunny and 30 is "nice"
Now to get back out there and walk the dog.
Feels good to be getting back into running again! :)
Now to get back out there and walk the dog.
Feels good to be getting back into running again! :)
Wednesday, January 07, 2009
forgotten blogging...
Ok, so I signed onto my blog and was looking at the original description of what this is about. Said something to the effect of "a blog about running, and my life in general..." so where has the running part gone? Ugh, now I know I have been slacking with the running (the unsightly slowly forming tire around my middle will attest to that) but actually seeing that I have not blogged about a run in so long makes me cringe!
With all this moving crap going on, Drew and I aren't doing our usual Arizona race...(so so sooo sad) So I have really been letting myself go this winter. Usually I strap on my shoes and millions of layers to tackle whatever winter weather mother nature throws at me, but this year I have been wimping out! The hearty new englander in me is ashamed....
I think for the first time EVER this year my resolution will have to be to get back into running again. To really enjoy it like I used to. Man this is something I never thought I would hear myself saying!? What is wrong with me?! And here I thought I was a true runner, oh well, guess everyone falls of the wagon at some time or another......hey at least running to try to jump back on it will help me reach my goal....hehe!
With all this moving crap going on, Drew and I aren't doing our usual Arizona race...(so so sooo sad) So I have really been letting myself go this winter. Usually I strap on my shoes and millions of layers to tackle whatever winter weather mother nature throws at me, but this year I have been wimping out! The hearty new englander in me is ashamed....
I think for the first time EVER this year my resolution will have to be to get back into running again. To really enjoy it like I used to. Man this is something I never thought I would hear myself saying!? What is wrong with me?! And here I thought I was a true runner, oh well, guess everyone falls of the wagon at some time or another......hey at least running to try to jump back on it will help me reach my goal....hehe!
Sunday, January 04, 2009
Move over Emmitt...
Silly little doggie...he makes for such great entertainment. SO stubborn, so hopeful, especially when it comes to food.
Drew has been talking about writing a cartoon about Emmitt. Just for fun. We'll see how that goes.
Next week he will no longer be the center of attention, I will have several 3 yr olds running around the house for "art" (aka give mummy a break for a few hrs) classes.
Should be fun, should be interesting for this little pup.....
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