...that glitter eyeshadow should not be worn past a certain age. For me, that age was about fifteen. And that's being generous. I'm not talking about anything that the word 'shimmer' might describe. I'm talking chunky, glittery eyeshadow. The type that comes in those $5.00 halloween clown kits and makes you look as though you just crawled out of a heap of kindergarteners armed with rubber cement and sparkly plastic sprinkles. All costumes aside, what is it about glitter that makes someone think it belongs on their eyes? Isn't that dangerous? One stray flake and your retinas are toast! I could only consider it attractive if your intent is to catch a Bass. Just plunge your head about a foot beneath the surface and you'd easily be mistaken for a fishing lure. It's probably an unrecognized genius fishing strategy.
I feel similarly about pants with words like 'hot' or 'sexy' plastered across the butt. ESPECIALLY in rhinestones. Or rhinestones in general, for that matter. I'm just not a fan -- I don't think it sends a good message. I've got my own ideas about what I think it says about a person and I can't imagine that anyone would willingly send any part of that to the general public....especially via their own ass.
Monday, December 22, 2008
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Eggnog Latte
Coffee and I have an interesting relationship. I rarely drink it, so when I do it has the intended effect. After lunch today I was so sleepy that the likelihood of falling asleep on an open box of pipette tips had me conjuring images of the various honeycomb patterns such an incident might transfer to my forehead. I was caught up on my work, and decided that sampling the new holiday variety latte wouldn't be a bad idea......although it probably wasn't exactly a good idea, either. Sometimes coffee works a little too well with me. Especially when the coffee is eggnog flavored and I suck three quarters of it down in about five minutes. Then my body gets all hyped and my mind starts making leapfrog jumps from one thought to the next at ninety eight thousand miles an hour. Today matters were complicated by the fact that I had very little to do this afternoon.
Without work to keep my brain occupied I found myself locked in on Sesame Street. I work with a man who bears a striking resemblance to the Count. One of my coworkers actually made this observation a while back but it resurfaced this afternoon in my caffeine induced state. His native language is Arabic, so I think it would be great to see how much his accent and delivery of the "one two three, one two three..." line would contribute to the persona. While I'm on it, that has got to have been the easiest/most entertaining job ever. Being a Sesame Street character. Awesome. This thought then led to a mental perusal of the entire Sesame Street cast looking for an identity to match each of the people I work with. I didn't have much success, with the exception of Norm. Although his appearance isn't too terribly similar, Norm reminds me of Oscar the Grouch. ESPECIALLY when he's wearing one of those green paper lab coats and peering at me over the top rim of his glasses. Perhaps if I could get a picture of him on one of those Magna Doodles, then draw in a unibrow and cover his male pattern baldness with some fuzzy green magnetic shavings... Yes. Brilliant.
I then remembered watching Sesame Street when I had my tonsils taken out in the hospital. I shared a room with a kid who always had a red Kool-Ade mustache. Kool-Ade has kind of been ruined for me since coming to work here. Well, the red kind anyway - which is the only kind I ever liked. I sit next to a big plastic jug of blood waste every day that looks just like a big plastic jug of Kool-Ade. Except I know better. And it has floaties. Just ruined it for you too, didn't I?
Speaking of drinks, where is my eggnog flavored liquid crack? I wanted to suck down the last quarter and see what depths my delirium could reach before 4:30. It's in my boss's office....where he's having a meeting with a sales rep of some sort. Boo.
I then wondered what my boss might think if he knew how I was spending my time on the clock. To be fair, I'd been caught up on all of my work all day. AND spent two hours researching work-related information. Maybe he'd still be perturbed. Maybe he'd simply wonder why all of my excellent references failed to mention my severe hyperactivity and apparent lack of anything that might resemble an attention span.
Maybe I'll stick to plain ol' sugar from now on, unless I really need it.
Without work to keep my brain occupied I found myself locked in on Sesame Street. I work with a man who bears a striking resemblance to the Count. One of my coworkers actually made this observation a while back but it resurfaced this afternoon in my caffeine induced state. His native language is Arabic, so I think it would be great to see how much his accent and delivery of the "one two three, one two three..." line would contribute to the persona. While I'm on it, that has got to have been the easiest/most entertaining job ever. Being a Sesame Street character. Awesome. This thought then led to a mental perusal of the entire Sesame Street cast looking for an identity to match each of the people I work with. I didn't have much success, with the exception of Norm. Although his appearance isn't too terribly similar, Norm reminds me of Oscar the Grouch. ESPECIALLY when he's wearing one of those green paper lab coats and peering at me over the top rim of his glasses. Perhaps if I could get a picture of him on one of those Magna Doodles, then draw in a unibrow and cover his male pattern baldness with some fuzzy green magnetic shavings... Yes. Brilliant.
I then remembered watching Sesame Street when I had my tonsils taken out in the hospital. I shared a room with a kid who always had a red Kool-Ade mustache. Kool-Ade has kind of been ruined for me since coming to work here. Well, the red kind anyway - which is the only kind I ever liked. I sit next to a big plastic jug of blood waste every day that looks just like a big plastic jug of Kool-Ade. Except I know better. And it has floaties. Just ruined it for you too, didn't I?
Speaking of drinks, where is my eggnog flavored liquid crack? I wanted to suck down the last quarter and see what depths my delirium could reach before 4:30. It's in my boss's office....where he's having a meeting with a sales rep of some sort. Boo.
I then wondered what my boss might think if he knew how I was spending my time on the clock. To be fair, I'd been caught up on all of my work all day. AND spent two hours researching work-related information. Maybe he'd still be perturbed. Maybe he'd simply wonder why all of my excellent references failed to mention my severe hyperactivity and apparent lack of anything that might resemble an attention span.
Maybe I'll stick to plain ol' sugar from now on, unless I really need it.
Sunday, December 7, 2008
*Sigh* Oh KAY
So maybe I lied. I'm on my way out to Boulder with a friend for lunch and shopping. I'll TRY to be good, but there are no guarantees. They have a Peppercorn and home grown spice shop and all kinds of cute jewelery, for Pete's sake! Cut me some slack!
Maybe I'll have some fun hippie sightings. More to come...
Maybe I'll have some fun hippie sightings. More to come...
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Paper and Ribbon
I love Christmas. My bank account does NOT love Christmas. However, I have sworn that (aside from the 3 stocking stuffers I have yet to purchase) I am FINISHED Christmas shopping! I'm not allowed to spend any more money. Besides, I don't think I can fit any more boxes in my suitcase when I fly back home for the holidays.
I wrapped the last of my gifts last night and they're sitting all shiny and beautiful under the tree, absorbing the magic of Christmas untill the 25th!
Happy holiday season!!
I wrapped the last of my gifts last night and they're sitting all shiny and beautiful under the tree, absorbing the magic of Christmas untill the 25th!
Happy holiday season!!
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Single Ladies...and Christmas
A conversation with a couple of great girls over dinner and drinks last night made me want to learn the dance to Beyonce's Single Ladies video. I realize that learning the dance moves to a music video is soooo 7th grade but I have this to say in my defense: DAMN! Have you SEEN the video!? And in stilettos, no less! Maybe if my sister came to visit and we learned it together it would be a little less lame. Maybe. Of course that would require prying the talons of nursing school and Delta Zeta out of her long enough to allow for 2 carefree days in Denver with me. *sigh* I miss her!
In other news, I just removed a splinter from my right hand with a surgical scalpel and it feels soooo much better. I came by two of them in a Christmas tree assembly incident last night, but I was in such a good mood that I really didn't care. Getting the Christmas tree up means that it's official and I can enjoy the holiday. I love sitting on the couch with the fire going and watching the lights twinkle. Possibly with a lil' Bailey's and hot chocolate. Mmmmm Christmas :) I put up the tree and hung my ornaments with a Charlie Brown Christmas on the TV while looking out my patio to see the beautiful Colorado snow falling. It's absolutely *gorgeous* here and I'm so happy that I get to enjoy this for a few months! It also makes me want to go skiing really badly. I'm hoping that next weekend can be my inaugural trip!
I'll leave you to a fun video. Here's to hoping I can beat this performance if I do attempt the Single Ladies feat ;) Enjoy!
In other news, I just removed a splinter from my right hand with a surgical scalpel and it feels soooo much better. I came by two of them in a Christmas tree assembly incident last night, but I was in such a good mood that I really didn't care. Getting the Christmas tree up means that it's official and I can enjoy the holiday. I love sitting on the couch with the fire going and watching the lights twinkle. Possibly with a lil' Bailey's and hot chocolate. Mmmmm Christmas :) I put up the tree and hung my ornaments with a Charlie Brown Christmas on the TV while looking out my patio to see the beautiful Colorado snow falling. It's absolutely *gorgeous* here and I'm so happy that I get to enjoy this for a few months! It also makes me want to go skiing really badly. I'm hoping that next weekend can be my inaugural trip!
I'll leave you to a fun video. Here's to hoping I can beat this performance if I do attempt the Single Ladies feat ;) Enjoy!
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Ass Cancer
This is an excerpt from a novel I'm reading, and it's dedicated to everyone I met in my brief stint at Carino's.
'Doug, our bartender, wishes "ass cancer" on rude customers and customers who show up when we have no more customers and are about to close. Then we have to stay open for -- at least -- an extra hour plus, just for these jackasses -- and they always come. So when I tell Doug about Table 23 he walks over and gives them the "ass cancer hex." I don't know what in entails because I've never seen him do it. But just knowing that he did makes me feel better already.'
Stupid and Contagious by Caprice Crane
Cheers to all who know what the situation's like, and to those who don't -- don't be the jackass. You might just wind up with ass cancer...or at least spit in your food.
'Doug, our bartender, wishes "ass cancer" on rude customers and customers who show up when we have no more customers and are about to close. Then we have to stay open for -- at least -- an extra hour plus, just for these jackasses -- and they always come. So when I tell Doug about Table 23 he walks over and gives them the "ass cancer hex." I don't know what in entails because I've never seen him do it. But just knowing that he did makes me feel better already.'
Stupid and Contagious by Caprice Crane
Cheers to all who know what the situation's like, and to those who don't -- don't be the jackass. You might just wind up with ass cancer...or at least spit in your food.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Fashion Goddess
I opened my sister's birthday gift to discover an unuuuuusually long sweatshirt from Victoria's Secret. My sister tends to be a little more fashion forward than myself, so I decided - strange as it seemed - it must be the new 'thing'. (I considered that it might be worn with leggings, but I'll be damned if I'm falling into that trend without a fight) Because a hockey game was on the agenda, I pulled it on over my tank and jeans and headed out. She didn't answer my call, so I sent a text. 'Just got your gift! Thanks! Wearing it to the game tonight'
About halfway through the first period I got a response. 'It's PAJAMAS! Oh my GOD!'
To Cam: 'Well it looks good with jeans too!'
To me: 'You. Are a Fashion Goddess.'
I suppose the upside was coming home, losing the pants, and jumping straight into bed. It's actually really comfortable - and when paired with knee length socks, makes for a pretty warm winter pajama set!
About halfway through the first period I got a response. 'It's PAJAMAS! Oh my GOD!'
To Cam: 'Well it looks good with jeans too!'
To me: 'You. Are a Fashion Goddess.'
I suppose the upside was coming home, losing the pants, and jumping straight into bed. It's actually really comfortable - and when paired with knee length socks, makes for a pretty warm winter pajama set!
Monday, October 20, 2008
(Not Quite So) Bright Shiny & New
The novelty of Colorado is wearing off.
Still love my job and apartment, life is good and all that jazz - but the prospect of spending my birthday AND Thanksgiving away from my friends and family is definitely starting to get to me. Oh, and if these ridiculous HEADACHES do not STOP, I swear by all that is holy I'll use my one and only power tool to drill a hole through my own temple.
My trip to Texas needs to come a little quicker, as does ski season.
Still love my job and apartment, life is good and all that jazz - but the prospect of spending my birthday AND Thanksgiving away from my friends and family is definitely starting to get to me. Oh, and if these ridiculous HEADACHES do not STOP, I swear by all that is holy I'll use my one and only power tool to drill a hole through my own temple.
My trip to Texas needs to come a little quicker, as does ski season.
Friday, October 17, 2008
I'm A Horrible Person...But I'm Willing To Admit It
I just had a moment that I bet some of you might secretly appreciate. While leaving happy birthday wishes on a friend's facebook profile, a name caught my eye and I had one of those OHMYGOD I completely forgot that person ever existed moments. In the same instant I remembered how horrible that individual was to me in the 3rd grade, and was pleased to discover that they've turned out looking like a severe undiagnosed case of hyperthyroidism. (This based completely on the eyes. To my great disappointment there was no evidence of goiter involvement)
I came to the realization that yes, sometimes I am a horrible person. Part of me wanted to see her profile and secretly hoped she majored in contemporary dance at the local junior college...her biggest accomplishment being a performance at the basketball game halftime against the Nowheresville Bearcats. I would hold my breath for awesomely hideous pictures of extra small spandex, teased up hair and hideous glitter eyeshadow...and feel totally and completely vindicated for the public ridicule of my hand-sewn buttonup jumper (thanks, Granny) that sad day on the playground some 16 years ago.
Who gets excited at petty stuff like that? Well my friends (McCain has infiltrated my blogging) that would be me. Kinda sad when you think about it, but my third grade self would have been pretty damned satisfied to see that picture!
In all honesty, she doesn't look that bad, and deep down inside somewhere I'd grudgingly admit that I really do hope she's doing well. I mean when it comes down to it I really only have so much bad juju to wish upon people who have done me wrong, and she wasn't quite horrible enough to make that cut. ;)
I came to the realization that yes, sometimes I am a horrible person. Part of me wanted to see her profile and secretly hoped she majored in contemporary dance at the local junior college...her biggest accomplishment being a performance at the basketball game halftime against the Nowheresville Bearcats. I would hold my breath for awesomely hideous pictures of extra small spandex, teased up hair and hideous glitter eyeshadow...and feel totally and completely vindicated for the public ridicule of my hand-sewn buttonup jumper (thanks, Granny) that sad day on the playground some 16 years ago.
Who gets excited at petty stuff like that? Well my friends (McCain has infiltrated my blogging) that would be me. Kinda sad when you think about it, but my third grade self would have been pretty damned satisfied to see that picture!
In all honesty, she doesn't look that bad, and deep down inside somewhere I'd grudgingly admit that I really do hope she's doing well. I mean when it comes down to it I really only have so much bad juju to wish upon people who have done me wrong, and she wasn't quite horrible enough to make that cut. ;)
Monday, October 13, 2008
Flu Vaccine: Inhale or Inject?
Flu season is upon us, and it's time to start taking preventative measures to avoid being curled in a ball wishing you were dead for 7 solid days.
Today I received my flu vaccine for the first time via intranasal spray. Although studies last year suggested that the FluMist version was slightly more effective than the injection, no one can be sure if last year's data is predictive of this year's vaccine- since the targeted viruses change each year.
My selection came less by careful study of the statistics and more as an aversion of needles and a sore arm. Unfortunately, as the FluMist is a live virus, I discovered that the side effects can be a tad more invasive.
I spent my afternoon/evening on the couch, lightheaded and with a massive crushing headache. All things considered, I probably would have gone with the sore shoulder if I had the decision to make all over again.
My sister (the aspiring nurse) suggested that I 'stick to tradition and get the injection.....GET IT?? STICK to tradition!?' Some help she is. Drive your "empathetic" little ass up here and get me a cold compress!
Today I received my flu vaccine for the first time via intranasal spray. Although studies last year suggested that the FluMist version was slightly more effective than the injection, no one can be sure if last year's data is predictive of this year's vaccine- since the targeted viruses change each year.
My selection came less by careful study of the statistics and more as an aversion of needles and a sore arm. Unfortunately, as the FluMist is a live virus, I discovered that the side effects can be a tad more invasive.
I spent my afternoon/evening on the couch, lightheaded and with a massive crushing headache. All things considered, I probably would have gone with the sore shoulder if I had the decision to make all over again.
My sister (the aspiring nurse) suggested that I 'stick to tradition and get the injection.....GET IT?? STICK to tradition!?' Some help she is. Drive your "empathetic" little ass up here and get me a cold compress!
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
Important!
I COMPLETELY left out the fact that it's also Breast Cancer Awareness Month! Props to all of you who support progress made through somatic stem cell research and those of you who have been touched by a strougle with breast cancer. Special shout out to Mrs. Trout and Granny Bev!
Go let somebody feel your boobies, it might save your life!
www.nbcam.org
Go let somebody feel your boobies, it might save your life!
www.nbcam.org
Halloween Costumes Rock
October contains the most monumentally amazing 31 days in the calendar year for multiple reasons.
- It's the epitome of fall. The temp. is no longer hot enough to melt your face off, but still warm enough that you don't wish you were indoors every time you step out. Not to sound too much like a tree hugging hippie, but the colors in nature are awesome. Then, of course, football's on all the time.
- My birthday is on the 22nd, which means 3 things. Cake, presents, and pumpkin parties. The firt two are undeniable perks for anyone who's reasonably sane. The third can be explored by a brief divergence to my childhood. My mother began 2 birthday traditions for me. 1) Make tootsie pops into ghosts to share at school (tissue, a marker, some ribbon and you're all set) and 2) Decorate miniature pumpkins at my party. I've kept the pumpkin party alive and whether it's just me and Steph or a big group of friends, I decorate a pumpkin every October. It's one of the highlights of my year. (Ranks up there with 4th of July fireworks, sparklers on new years, decorating Easter eggs and Christmas morning) This year it's looking like I might actually get a couple days of pumpkin fun. Can life get better? I submit that it can NOT!
- Dressing up for Halloween. I love coming up with Halloween costumes. As a kid I was afraid that you had to quit dressing up once you were an adult, but then came the memorable year that my parents both dressed as California Raisins and went out in public. Oh yes, friends. There is photo documentation from what seems to have been a reasonably unruly costume party.
This year, Halloween is going to be an especially great time for me, as it will be my first trip back to TEXAS! I'm so excited. Not only will it be halloween, but it's the weekend of the Tech Vs. Texas game in Lubbock. Wash your drinkin' pants, it's gonna be a good time! I'll have all kinds of friends and family in town for the game. I've been looking forward to this weekend since....oh....May-ish? I'm sure it will not disappoint. However, it is imperative that I have a kick-ass halloween costume. I'll have to try and outdo last year's Rainbow Brite.
So far, ideas include The leg lamp from A Christmas Story (original idea - awesome but incredibly random), Elastigirl from the Incredibles (could totally rock the hips), A gold medalist in the Sparkler Olympics (see entry), Little Bo Peep (awesome props...I'd bring a staff and some sort of sheep), and Alanis Morissette as God in Dogma (contingent upon me finding that awesome white plastic jacket she wore)
I need some more suggestions. Help, please!!
- It's the epitome of fall. The temp. is no longer hot enough to melt your face off, but still warm enough that you don't wish you were indoors every time you step out. Not to sound too much like a tree hugging hippie, but the colors in nature are awesome. Then, of course, football's on all the time.
- My birthday is on the 22nd, which means 3 things. Cake, presents, and pumpkin parties. The firt two are undeniable perks for anyone who's reasonably sane. The third can be explored by a brief divergence to my childhood. My mother began 2 birthday traditions for me. 1) Make tootsie pops into ghosts to share at school (tissue, a marker, some ribbon and you're all set) and 2) Decorate miniature pumpkins at my party. I've kept the pumpkin party alive and whether it's just me and Steph or a big group of friends, I decorate a pumpkin every October. It's one of the highlights of my year. (Ranks up there with 4th of July fireworks, sparklers on new years, decorating Easter eggs and Christmas morning) This year it's looking like I might actually get a couple days of pumpkin fun. Can life get better? I submit that it can NOT!
- Dressing up for Halloween. I love coming up with Halloween costumes. As a kid I was afraid that you had to quit dressing up once you were an adult, but then came the memorable year that my parents both dressed as California Raisins and went out in public. Oh yes, friends. There is photo documentation from what seems to have been a reasonably unruly costume party.
This year, Halloween is going to be an especially great time for me, as it will be my first trip back to TEXAS! I'm so excited. Not only will it be halloween, but it's the weekend of the Tech Vs. Texas game in Lubbock. Wash your drinkin' pants, it's gonna be a good time! I'll have all kinds of friends and family in town for the game. I've been looking forward to this weekend since....oh....May-ish? I'm sure it will not disappoint. However, it is imperative that I have a kick-ass halloween costume. I'll have to try and outdo last year's Rainbow Brite.
So far, ideas include The leg lamp from A Christmas Story (original idea - awesome but incredibly random), Elastigirl from the Incredibles (could totally rock the hips), A gold medalist in the Sparkler Olympics (see entry), Little Bo Peep (awesome props...I'd bring a staff and some sort of sheep), and Alanis Morissette as God in Dogma (contingent upon me finding that awesome white plastic jacket she wore)
I need some more suggestions. Help, please!!
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Things I Don't Understand (The Short List)
Why I love the smell of coffee and (some) cigars but am not terribly fond of the taste.
How easy it is to convince myself that ten more minutes of sleep in the morning really WILL make my day better
The fact that everyone assumes I want to be married right now.
Miley Cyrus
Why the bus leaves my stop 5 minutes early every other day
How Colorado's public education system can suck so badly with such a high state income tax. Where is all that $ going, anyway??
Faux fur
The purpose of Braille on signs above hands’ reach
Why people in the military respond with their rank when asked what they do. Your rank doesn’t tell me what you do - and if you think I’m going to be impressed, you’re overestimating my knowledge of military hierarchy.
Denver’s weird turning lanes
People who text the word ‘Wat’. How difficult is it really to put the ‘h’ in there? Plus it reminds me of a less pleasant word.
How easy it is to convince myself that ten more minutes of sleep in the morning really WILL make my day better
The fact that everyone assumes I want to be married right now.
Miley Cyrus
Why the bus leaves my stop 5 minutes early every other day
How Colorado's public education system can suck so badly with such a high state income tax. Where is all that $ going, anyway??
Faux fur
The purpose of Braille on signs above hands’ reach
Why people in the military respond with their rank when asked what they do. Your rank doesn’t tell me what you do - and if you think I’m going to be impressed, you’re overestimating my knowledge of military hierarchy.
Denver’s weird turning lanes
People who text the word ‘Wat’. How difficult is it really to put the ‘h’ in there? Plus it reminds me of a less pleasant word.
Sunday, September 7, 2008
Are You Important Right Now?
This is the way my sister answered the phone when I called yesterday - to determine if there was an actual purpose for the time that I was about to take up, or if I was going to verbalize half-developed thoughts and waste her time. If you're wondering whether or not I'm important right now, the answer is not really. I suppose the majority of my postings are that way....but just as a disclaimer, the following will be a random accumulation of stuff. Mostly because I'm just in a chill mood and have been asked for updates on life, so here we go!
Work: Great. Kinda slow with the whole training thing - standing around and watching people to get the feel for the overall flow of the lab. I won't get my own desk for a couple of months, but things should pick up soon.
Weekend: Fantastic. Went to Wyoming, saw the 'rents, partied with my cousins, attended the UW/Air Force game, visited Penney and the boys, came home and spent entirely too much money on a ski pass and related equipment (which I'm psyched about!)
Apartment: Progressing. I still have a few small improvement projects I'm working on and some organization that needs to get done, but overall it's great. Pictures to come, likely via facebook. (I know I keep saying that but I really mean it!) Internet and cable will FINALLY be hooked up this coming Saturday, so I'll be able to quit haunting the Starbucks every third day.
Generally, things are going really well. I'm happy here! I'm slowly meeting some people and that's definitely helpful as far as feeling at home is concerned. Elizabeth and Chad already have a trip out here planned - and my brother may be headed up for the SPE conference which would be awesome.
Hopefully that's enough of an update. I've got a chicken brining at home that I should probably go dry before it becomes completely preserved. Oh, and I have my first experience with RTD (the bus system) slated for tomorrow morning, so wish me luck. Hopefully it's a successful venture and I can rely on that to get back and forth between work...mostly because I refuse to pay close to 300 a year and park a quarter of a mile away from the building. It should save on gas too so that's a perk! I'm off to salvage the chicken. Buenos Noches!
Work: Great. Kinda slow with the whole training thing - standing around and watching people to get the feel for the overall flow of the lab. I won't get my own desk for a couple of months, but things should pick up soon.
Weekend: Fantastic. Went to Wyoming, saw the 'rents, partied with my cousins, attended the UW/Air Force game, visited Penney and the boys, came home and spent entirely too much money on a ski pass and related equipment (which I'm psyched about!)
Apartment: Progressing. I still have a few small improvement projects I'm working on and some organization that needs to get done, but overall it's great. Pictures to come, likely via facebook. (I know I keep saying that but I really mean it!) Internet and cable will FINALLY be hooked up this coming Saturday, so I'll be able to quit haunting the Starbucks every third day.
Generally, things are going really well. I'm happy here! I'm slowly meeting some people and that's definitely helpful as far as feeling at home is concerned. Elizabeth and Chad already have a trip out here planned - and my brother may be headed up for the SPE conference which would be awesome.
Hopefully that's enough of an update. I've got a chicken brining at home that I should probably go dry before it becomes completely preserved. Oh, and I have my first experience with RTD (the bus system) slated for tomorrow morning, so wish me luck. Hopefully it's a successful venture and I can rely on that to get back and forth between work...mostly because I refuse to pay close to 300 a year and park a quarter of a mile away from the building. It should save on gas too so that's a perk! I'm off to salvage the chicken. Buenos Noches!
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
The Children's Hospital
I can sum up this entire blog with one word - AMAZING. Let's just go ahead and face facts though; I tend to be a bit more loquacious...so I'll go ahead and do my rambling thing.
This place is AWESOME. If I'm ever reincarnated as a sick kid, I want to be stuck here. No joke. The entire hospital is more kid friendly than I ever would have imagined. They try not to stick the kids in wheelchairs. Instead, they have radio flyers with poles attached to hold on to their IV bags if necessary. You see kids being hauled around in shiny red wagons all day long. I don't know about you, but as a kid wagons were second only to a live horse as far as transportation went in my book.
The floors are separated by specialty, and are color and animal coded. For example, the first floor is the pink floor, or the butterfly floor. The third floor is the green floor, or the froggy floor. Pretty sweet, huh? By and large, the rooms are private. Each one has an Xbox 360 and a flat screen TV. Each floor has a gigantic play room fully loaded with every board game you could imagine, video gaming systems, arts and crafts supplies, blocks, the list goes on and on. It's meant to be large enough to accomodate a sick kid in bed PLUS his/her entire preK/grade school class, should they come to visit all together.
The decor of the entire hospital is unbelievable. The floors are giant tile mosaics of animals and characters and the walls are covered in children's original art. I'll put up some pictures when I get the opportunity. I haven't even begun to dig in to the awesome training the staff is given on the intricacies of child-specific healthcare. The technologies employed here are unbelievable. Unfortunately, my nasty little cold prevented me from touring the neonatal ICU, but I've unfortunately had reason to spend ample time in one before.
I've been in Allied Health training for a few years now, and it's so completely awesome to be in a room and speak with professionals who cover all disciplines from adolescent psyh to child life to radiology to research management to pathology/lab medicine. It's like I'm seeing all these aspects finally mesh together to functionally support a sick kid and their entire family from inital symptoms to completion of treatment and followup. For lack of a better expression, I'm totally stoked about the whole thing.
I was excited about my job for a lot of reasons (mostly completely unrelated to pediatric care) coming in, but knowing that I'm a part of this institution has really become a motivating factor. Today was simply overall hospital orientation. I'll get into the intricacies of the lab environment and the molecular menu tomorrow, and I'm sure I'll be just as wound up after that!
This place is AWESOME. If I'm ever reincarnated as a sick kid, I want to be stuck here. No joke. The entire hospital is more kid friendly than I ever would have imagined. They try not to stick the kids in wheelchairs. Instead, they have radio flyers with poles attached to hold on to their IV bags if necessary. You see kids being hauled around in shiny red wagons all day long. I don't know about you, but as a kid wagons were second only to a live horse as far as transportation went in my book.
The floors are separated by specialty, and are color and animal coded. For example, the first floor is the pink floor, or the butterfly floor. The third floor is the green floor, or the froggy floor. Pretty sweet, huh? By and large, the rooms are private. Each one has an Xbox 360 and a flat screen TV. Each floor has a gigantic play room fully loaded with every board game you could imagine, video gaming systems, arts and crafts supplies, blocks, the list goes on and on. It's meant to be large enough to accomodate a sick kid in bed PLUS his/her entire preK/grade school class, should they come to visit all together.
The decor of the entire hospital is unbelievable. The floors are giant tile mosaics of animals and characters and the walls are covered in children's original art. I'll put up some pictures when I get the opportunity. I haven't even begun to dig in to the awesome training the staff is given on the intricacies of child-specific healthcare. The technologies employed here are unbelievable. Unfortunately, my nasty little cold prevented me from touring the neonatal ICU, but I've unfortunately had reason to spend ample time in one before.
I've been in Allied Health training for a few years now, and it's so completely awesome to be in a room and speak with professionals who cover all disciplines from adolescent psyh to child life to radiology to research management to pathology/lab medicine. It's like I'm seeing all these aspects finally mesh together to functionally support a sick kid and their entire family from inital symptoms to completion of treatment and followup. For lack of a better expression, I'm totally stoked about the whole thing.
I was excited about my job for a lot of reasons (mostly completely unrelated to pediatric care) coming in, but knowing that I'm a part of this institution has really become a motivating factor. Today was simply overall hospital orientation. I'll get into the intricacies of the lab environment and the molecular menu tomorrow, and I'm sure I'll be just as wound up after that!
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Colorado So Far
So my first day here wasn't stellar. I flew up from Amarillo, and carried on a music box my Poppy had carved for me. It was incredibly delicate and I wanted to avoid breakage. The poor thing survived the ENTIRE flight and airport fiasco only to be crushed by hapless placement of a purse in my car. Tear.
I tried to wash my poor filthy car (it had been sitting in a driveway for a month and a half) and the car wash took payment but didn't work. Then some korean dude couldn't understand enough english to understand why I wanted a refund. It took 30 minutes to get my $6.00 back.
THEN I made a wrong turn trying to find the interstate, and the most stupendous thing happened. I got pulled over going 10 above the speed limit. I was accelerating to the speed sign posted 15 yards ahead, and explained that A) I was lost and B) I was new here and not entirely certain what the speed limit was anyway. His exact words were 'Welcome to Colorado - this isn't the best part of my job...'
Jerk.
I woke up the 2nd day here to a sore throat and have been progressing to development of a very healthy cold ever since.
*sigh*
On the upside, I'm loving my apartment and my family here is amazing! :) Despite all the unfortunate occurances to date, I'm having a good time and can't wait to start work on Tuesday!
I tried to wash my poor filthy car (it had been sitting in a driveway for a month and a half) and the car wash took payment but didn't work. Then some korean dude couldn't understand enough english to understand why I wanted a refund. It took 30 minutes to get my $6.00 back.
THEN I made a wrong turn trying to find the interstate, and the most stupendous thing happened. I got pulled over going 10 above the speed limit. I was accelerating to the speed sign posted 15 yards ahead, and explained that A) I was lost and B) I was new here and not entirely certain what the speed limit was anyway. His exact words were 'Welcome to Colorado - this isn't the best part of my job...'
Jerk.
I woke up the 2nd day here to a sore throat and have been progressing to development of a very healthy cold ever since.
*sigh*
On the upside, I'm loving my apartment and my family here is amazing! :) Despite all the unfortunate occurances to date, I'm having a good time and can't wait to start work on Tuesday!
Monday, August 25, 2008
Sentimentalism
'Isn't it great to be back with real friends? I mean the kind you can tease relentlessly until they really hate you?'
Yes, yes it is...eventhough she was mostly referring to my ridicule ;)
It's also great to be with people who know that having your hair played with is one of life's greatest pleasures, and that snuggling 4 people to a bed is still proper protocol for sleepovers even at 24 when two of you are five months pregnant.
I have a story from the weekend, but it requries a preface.
Those who have slept with me know that I rarely snore, but do have another annoying/endearing (depending on your perspective) sleeping quirk. I click. Somehow I produce a strange clicking noise in the back of my throat every time I breathe.
This weekend, Erica and I were bedmates. Seeing as it's been six or so years since freshman year when we shared a dorm room, I suppose I can see how she'd forgotten about my clicking. In any case, apparently I fell asleep in the middle of Shiloh's (baby bump) evening calisthenics routine. The clicking started up, and she began to wonder if Shiloh had picked up some new communication method to supplement his kicks. She laid in silence feeling all around her stomach for a good 3-5 minutes before realizing that the sound was indeed coming from the pillow next to her and not, as she had suspected, from her stomach.
I think the incident illustrates how radically pregnancy changes your body - considering that the production of a strange noise at regular intervals could be considered normal development. Craziness. I'll leave additional commentary on the side effects of pregnancy out for the time being, but I will say this: If you're a female, don't assume that morning sickness and swolen ankles are the worst of what you deal with. Health class lied. At this stage in the game, I'm utterly shocked that women pull this off all the time. Maybe they keep us ignorant of the details as long as possible so we don't chicken out. I don't know...but I do know that I admire my friends for what they're going through and have an entirely new respect for mothers!!
Yes, yes it is...eventhough she was mostly referring to my ridicule ;)
It's also great to be with people who know that having your hair played with is one of life's greatest pleasures, and that snuggling 4 people to a bed is still proper protocol for sleepovers even at 24 when two of you are five months pregnant.
I have a story from the weekend, but it requries a preface.
Those who have slept with me know that I rarely snore, but do have another annoying/endearing (depending on your perspective) sleeping quirk. I click. Somehow I produce a strange clicking noise in the back of my throat every time I breathe.
This weekend, Erica and I were bedmates. Seeing as it's been six or so years since freshman year when we shared a dorm room, I suppose I can see how she'd forgotten about my clicking. In any case, apparently I fell asleep in the middle of Shiloh's (baby bump) evening calisthenics routine. The clicking started up, and she began to wonder if Shiloh had picked up some new communication method to supplement his kicks. She laid in silence feeling all around her stomach for a good 3-5 minutes before realizing that the sound was indeed coming from the pillow next to her and not, as she had suspected, from her stomach.
I think the incident illustrates how radically pregnancy changes your body - considering that the production of a strange noise at regular intervals could be considered normal development. Craziness. I'll leave additional commentary on the side effects of pregnancy out for the time being, but I will say this: If you're a female, don't assume that morning sickness and swolen ankles are the worst of what you deal with. Health class lied. At this stage in the game, I'm utterly shocked that women pull this off all the time. Maybe they keep us ignorant of the details as long as possible so we don't chicken out. I don't know...but I do know that I admire my friends for what they're going through and have an entirely new respect for mothers!!
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Mrs. Manning
If you went to high school in Greenwood, America, you can already tell that the content of this blog will involve one of two things; English literature or eyebrows. Mrs. Manning taught our AP english courses and was notorious for her eyebrows. Er - lack thereof - and her thick, drawn-on brow liner version of them. Sadly, part of me wished my life related to something about English literature today -- and I suppose in part it does. Prepare yourself for a tradgedy, friends.
I was in the mall and decided that I'd neglected parts of my personal routine a little too much this summer, and why not treat myself to a quick manicure and eyebrow wax? Between my Dad's 50th birthday party, a wedding, and various other social outings on the horizon, I figured a little attention to the details couldn't hurt....right?
Oooh, so wrong.
That tiny chinese grandmother stole my eyebrows. Okay, so truthfully she only stole 75% of my eyebrows - but for someone who has naturally blonde hair, the remaining 25% doesn't really show up all that well on its own. The result appears as a small line reaching from the inner corner of my eyes to just above my pupils....then.....nothing. I was so shocked that I left without getting the manicure to try and calm myself. I desperately attempted to determine what was within my power to improve the situation. I finally came to the conclusion that (against all hope) instant hair growth serum and/or time travel are not at my disposal to rectify things. However, eyeliner just might do the trick. I could pull a Mrs. Manning and color it in! Lots of people do that, right? It's either that, or buy a bottle of hair color and try to dye what's left of my eyebrows to a shade distinguishable against my skin.
If I could play out for you all the terrible scenarios that ran through my mind of how horribly that might turn out, you'd see why I immediately decided against the hair dye.
I retreated to the haven of my vehicle to test out the eyeliner hypothesis, but had forgotten that the temperature in Midland runs at about a thousand and seven degrees these days, and the eyeliner was melted. Matters were further complicated by the fact that the truck I'm driving around has a non-functional AC. I was forced to cut my errand-running short because really, who wants to go into the post office looking like a half-eyebrowed weirdo? Not me, thank you.
*sigh* Lesson learned. Vanity is a horrible thing, and humility is a difficult virtue to stomach!
I was in the mall and decided that I'd neglected parts of my personal routine a little too much this summer, and why not treat myself to a quick manicure and eyebrow wax? Between my Dad's 50th birthday party, a wedding, and various other social outings on the horizon, I figured a little attention to the details couldn't hurt....right?
Oooh, so wrong.
That tiny chinese grandmother stole my eyebrows. Okay, so truthfully she only stole 75% of my eyebrows - but for someone who has naturally blonde hair, the remaining 25% doesn't really show up all that well on its own. The result appears as a small line reaching from the inner corner of my eyes to just above my pupils....then.....nothing. I was so shocked that I left without getting the manicure to try and calm myself. I desperately attempted to determine what was within my power to improve the situation. I finally came to the conclusion that (against all hope) instant hair growth serum and/or time travel are not at my disposal to rectify things. However, eyeliner just might do the trick. I could pull a Mrs. Manning and color it in! Lots of people do that, right? It's either that, or buy a bottle of hair color and try to dye what's left of my eyebrows to a shade distinguishable against my skin.
If I could play out for you all the terrible scenarios that ran through my mind of how horribly that might turn out, you'd see why I immediately decided against the hair dye.
I retreated to the haven of my vehicle to test out the eyeliner hypothesis, but had forgotten that the temperature in Midland runs at about a thousand and seven degrees these days, and the eyeliner was melted. Matters were further complicated by the fact that the truck I'm driving around has a non-functional AC. I was forced to cut my errand-running short because really, who wants to go into the post office looking like a half-eyebrowed weirdo? Not me, thank you.
*sigh* Lesson learned. Vanity is a horrible thing, and humility is a difficult virtue to stomach!
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Flying
Between April and August, I will have flown on a total of 13 airplanes. I'm between numbers 5 and 6 at the moment. I can't help but people watch when I'm around crowds, and I have a few public service announcements:
1) I don't care who you are, you look like a douchebag when wearing your sunglasses indoors. Especially with your too-cool ball cap with the sticker still attached and your popped collar. Call me a hater, maybe I am -- but I still think you look like an idiot.
2) This one applies more to Texans than anyone else; but please, for decency sake, DO NOT bring your Dr. Pepper bottle aboard the airplane to use as a dip cup. It's disgusting, especially when you're stuck in such close proximity. If you can't survive an hour and a half flight without your nicotine fix, at least use something I can't see through while you do it. Seriously. Gross.
3) Please, please, PLEASE stop yelling into your cell phone. I realize the person on the other line may not be able to hear you, but everyone within a 20 foot radius can...and if the other party can't hear you in the first place, why drag on a 25 minute conversation? When you're yelling over the music in my headphones, it's getting bad.
That's the end of my rant... ;)
1) I don't care who you are, you look like a douchebag when wearing your sunglasses indoors. Especially with your too-cool ball cap with the sticker still attached and your popped collar. Call me a hater, maybe I am -- but I still think you look like an idiot.
2) This one applies more to Texans than anyone else; but please, for decency sake, DO NOT bring your Dr. Pepper bottle aboard the airplane to use as a dip cup. It's disgusting, especially when you're stuck in such close proximity. If you can't survive an hour and a half flight without your nicotine fix, at least use something I can't see through while you do it. Seriously. Gross.
3) Please, please, PLEASE stop yelling into your cell phone. I realize the person on the other line may not be able to hear you, but everyone within a 20 foot radius can...and if the other party can't hear you in the first place, why drag on a 25 minute conversation? When you're yelling over the music in my headphones, it's getting bad.
That's the end of my rant... ;)
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Altitude Sickness
I've officially gained experience in one not-so-fantastic aspect of this state. Namely, altitude sickness. In the past 3 days I've seen some beautiful territory; Estes park, Steamboat, Rocky Mountain National Park, and honestly - the drives up and down and between all 3 are fantastic as well. Unfortunately, between going up and down and changing between 1 and 2 miles above sea level in a matter of hours every day....my poor head feels like it's permanently locked in a vice grip that even double doses of Advil can't seem to phase.
So far, that's the only negative thing I have to say about this place (except, possibly, my complaints about the cost of living) But overall, I'm incredibly happy. My Dad blames the wind in Wyoming (his home state) on the fact that Colorado sucks so much....but I find that pure and simple bias. ;)
So far, that's the only negative thing I have to say about this place (except, possibly, my complaints about the cost of living) But overall, I'm incredibly happy. My Dad blames the wind in Wyoming (his home state) on the fact that Colorado sucks so much....but I find that pure and simple bias. ;)
Monday, July 14, 2008
This Year
If my life were a movie, this would have been one of those defining scenes. I was on hour 7 of the 8 hour trek from Omaha to Denver (my new home....craziness!) singing to random songs on the iPod. The song This Year by Chantal Kreviazuk came on - and the verse goes something like this:
'This year is gonna be incredible, this year is gonna be the one. All the planets are lining up for me. This year, I'm gonna have fun...'
I drive over this huge hill and all of a sudden, THERE ARE THE MOUNTAINS!! Spreading from the far left to the far right hand edge of my windshield.
*sigh* I'm so happy to be here!
'This year is gonna be incredible, this year is gonna be the one. All the planets are lining up for me. This year, I'm gonna have fun...'
I drive over this huge hill and all of a sudden, THERE ARE THE MOUNTAINS!! Spreading from the far left to the far right hand edge of my windshield.
*sigh* I'm so happy to be here!
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Lackadaisical
I've always liked that word. Were you to point a gun at my temple at this exact moment and demand I finish my presentation, I'd shrug and wait for you to pull the trigger.
I am so incredibly unmotivated. Typically the possibility of scorn or derision sparks at least a semblance of motivation to research and understand the material -- but not this week.
Sixteen(ish) hours left at Mayo.
I am so incredibly unmotivated. Typically the possibility of scorn or derision sparks at least a semblance of motivation to research and understand the material -- but not this week.
Sixteen(ish) hours left at Mayo.
Sunday, July 6, 2008
Sparkler Olympics
Mark your calendars and begin preparing now. July 4, 2009 shall mark the official opening games of the first annual Sparkler Olympics.
The phoenomenal Ms. Amy Hill absolutely made my day yesterday by buying me sparklers. We were outside enoying them when someone was struck by the ingenious concept of Sparkler Olympics.
The events and judging criteria (so far) are listed below. Additional suggestions for events are welcome. I plan to have a megaphone on hand for commentary, placards for the judges, and plenty of booze to quench accidental flames. Amy's already reserved rights to the song "Coming to America". Participants will be awarded extra points if they perform in costume, but inappropriate appearances in leotards will result in harsh deductions. You have been warned.
Synchronized Sparkling:
Precision
Patriotism
Originality
Difficulty
Sparkler Relay:
Time
Transitions
Sprolicking: (interpretive sparkling dance)
Patriotism
Originality
Difficulty
Choreography
Let the training commence.
The phoenomenal Ms. Amy Hill absolutely made my day yesterday by buying me sparklers. We were outside enoying them when someone was struck by the ingenious concept of Sparkler Olympics.
The events and judging criteria (so far) are listed below. Additional suggestions for events are welcome. I plan to have a megaphone on hand for commentary, placards for the judges, and plenty of booze to quench accidental flames. Amy's already reserved rights to the song "Coming to America". Participants will be awarded extra points if they perform in costume, but inappropriate appearances in leotards will result in harsh deductions. You have been warned.
Synchronized Sparkling:
Precision
Patriotism
Originality
Difficulty
Sparkler Relay:
Time
Transitions
Sprolicking: (interpretive sparkling dance)
Patriotism
Originality
Difficulty
Choreography
Let the training commence.
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Big Gulp huh? Welp, see ya later!
I've decided to compile some of my favorite movie lines. Why? Because I have a paper to write, of course. Don't ask stupid questions.
Almost Famous
"I didn't invent the rainy day, man. I just own the best umbrella."
"If you think that Mick Jagger will still be doing the whole rock star thing at age fifty...well, you are sorely, sorely mistaken."
"The only true currency in this bankrupt world is what you share with someone else when you're uncool."
Dumb & Dumber
"Just when I thought you couldn't get any dumber, you go and do something like this... and totally redeem yourself!"
"Yeah I called her up, she gave me a bunch of crap about me not listening to her, or something, I don't know, I wasn't really paying attention."
"So you're telling me there's a chance..."
Grosse Pointe Blank
"Why are you so interested in me going to my high school reunion?
-I just find it amusing that you came from somewhere."
"If you love something, set it free. If it comes back to you, it's, well, broken."
High Fidelity
"Should I bolt every time I get that feeling in my gut when I meet someone new? Well, I've been listening to my gut since I was 14 years old, and frankly speaking, I've come to the conclusion that my guts have shit for brains."
"What came first, the music or the misery? People worry about kids playing with guns, or watching violent videos, that some sort of culture of violence will take them over. Nobody worries about kids listening to thousands, literally thousands of songs about heartbreak, rejection, pain, misery and loss. Did I listen to pop music because I was miserable? Or was I miserable because I listened to pop music?"
Little Miss Sunshine
"No! I'm madly in love with you and it's not because of your brains or your personality."
"Oh my God, I'm getting pulled over. Everyone, just... pretend to be normal!"
"I'm glad you're talking again, Dwayne. You're not nearly as stupid as you look."
Love Story
Oliver - Well what makes you so smart?
Jennifer - I wouldn't go out for coffee with you that's what.
Oliver - What if I wasn't even gonna ask you to go out for coffee with me?
Jennifer - Well then that's what makes you stupid.
Office Space
"I cannot believe what a bunch of losers we are. We're looking up 'money laundering' in the dictionary."
"No, you're working at Initech because that question is bullshit to begin with. If everyone listened to her, there'd be no janitors, because no one would clean up shit if they had a million dollars."
Sweet Home Alabama
"What is it with you southern girls? You can't make the right decision until you've tried all the wrong ones."
"You can't ride two horses with one ass, sugarbean."
"I never fully understood that expression, but no, I am not 'shitting' you."
Tombstone
"I have two guns, one for each of ya."
"Are you gonna do something, or just stand there and bleed?"
"It seems poker's just not your game, Ike. I know, let's have a spelling contest!"
And of course -- "I'm your huckleberry"
Top Gun
"The Defense Department regrets to inform you that your sons are dead because they were stupid."
"I was improving international relations. You know, communicating?"
"The plaque for the alternates is down in the ladies room."
"Slider - Whose butt did you kiss to get in here?
Goose - The list is long, but distinguished.
Slider - Yeah, well, so's my Johnson."
I decided to spare you the animated movie favorites, of which there are several. In closing, I'd like to reference the entire Wedding Crashers script for obvious reasons.
Almost Famous
"I didn't invent the rainy day, man. I just own the best umbrella."
"If you think that Mick Jagger will still be doing the whole rock star thing at age fifty...well, you are sorely, sorely mistaken."
"The only true currency in this bankrupt world is what you share with someone else when you're uncool."
Dumb & Dumber
"Just when I thought you couldn't get any dumber, you go and do something like this... and totally redeem yourself!"
"Yeah I called her up, she gave me a bunch of crap about me not listening to her, or something, I don't know, I wasn't really paying attention."
"So you're telling me there's a chance..."
Grosse Pointe Blank
"Why are you so interested in me going to my high school reunion?
-I just find it amusing that you came from somewhere."
"If you love something, set it free. If it comes back to you, it's, well, broken."
High Fidelity
"Should I bolt every time I get that feeling in my gut when I meet someone new? Well, I've been listening to my gut since I was 14 years old, and frankly speaking, I've come to the conclusion that my guts have shit for brains."
"What came first, the music or the misery? People worry about kids playing with guns, or watching violent videos, that some sort of culture of violence will take them over. Nobody worries about kids listening to thousands, literally thousands of songs about heartbreak, rejection, pain, misery and loss. Did I listen to pop music because I was miserable? Or was I miserable because I listened to pop music?"
Little Miss Sunshine
"No! I'm madly in love with you and it's not because of your brains or your personality."
"Oh my God, I'm getting pulled over. Everyone, just... pretend to be normal!"
"I'm glad you're talking again, Dwayne. You're not nearly as stupid as you look."
Love Story
Oliver - Well what makes you so smart?
Jennifer - I wouldn't go out for coffee with you that's what.
Oliver - What if I wasn't even gonna ask you to go out for coffee with me?
Jennifer - Well then that's what makes you stupid.
Office Space
"I cannot believe what a bunch of losers we are. We're looking up 'money laundering' in the dictionary."
"No, you're working at Initech because that question is bullshit to begin with. If everyone listened to her, there'd be no janitors, because no one would clean up shit if they had a million dollars."
Sweet Home Alabama
"What is it with you southern girls? You can't make the right decision until you've tried all the wrong ones."
"You can't ride two horses with one ass, sugarbean."
"I never fully understood that expression, but no, I am not 'shitting' you."
Tombstone
"I have two guns, one for each of ya."
"Are you gonna do something, or just stand there and bleed?"
"It seems poker's just not your game, Ike. I know, let's have a spelling contest!"
And of course -- "I'm your huckleberry"
Top Gun
"The Defense Department regrets to inform you that your sons are dead because they were stupid."
"I was improving international relations. You know, communicating?"
"The plaque for the alternates is down in the ladies room."
"Slider - Whose butt did you kiss to get in here?
Goose - The list is long, but distinguished.
Slider - Yeah, well, so's my Johnson."
I decided to spare you the animated movie favorites, of which there are several. In closing, I'd like to reference the entire Wedding Crashers script for obvious reasons.
Friday, June 20, 2008
Rules
I maintain that when playing hangman, the full word should always be used. If an acronym or abbreviation is chosen, nondisclosure of said information renders the game unfair. Period.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
People Sacks (aka 'baby bumps')
I realized today that I'm beginning to move into a whole new phase of life. You always hear about the marriage phenomenon. You know the one. Everyone you've ever met in the 4-5 years following your high school graduation decides to get married within a 12-24 month period.
Marriage Phase - Check
(I'm through the thick of it anyhow, there are still two or three big ones to go)
It's fairly intuitive that the baby phase should follow. While I knew this, something in me didn't realize the transition was imminent. I suppose it's mostly my subconscious wanting to maintain the common ground I have left with my married friends...but alas, they are slowly beginning to fall victim to the baby craze.
The marriage phase made me the queen of bachelorette parties. While this is still a useful skill, I now find myself in the process of adding baby showers to my repertoire.
This week I have learned how to properly construct a diaper cake, brainstormed creative invitation ideas, and got a feel for what types of snacks/activities might be appropriate. My friends will be adorable pregnant and I'm certain that their babies will be precious, it's just another way life is changing this summer! I get to be the crazy friend who brings toys and feeds them sugar at inappropriate times. I must admit, I'm pretty stoked about that part of the job. (:
Marriage Phase - Check
(I'm through the thick of it anyhow, there are still two or three big ones to go)
It's fairly intuitive that the baby phase should follow. While I knew this, something in me didn't realize the transition was imminent. I suppose it's mostly my subconscious wanting to maintain the common ground I have left with my married friends...but alas, they are slowly beginning to fall victim to the baby craze.
The marriage phase made me the queen of bachelorette parties. While this is still a useful skill, I now find myself in the process of adding baby showers to my repertoire.
This week I have learned how to properly construct a diaper cake, brainstormed creative invitation ideas, and got a feel for what types of snacks/activities might be appropriate. My friends will be adorable pregnant and I'm certain that their babies will be precious, it's just another way life is changing this summer! I get to be the crazy friend who brings toys and feeds them sugar at inappropriate times. I must admit, I'm pretty stoked about that part of the job. (:
Monday, June 16, 2008
Simple Minds
My preoccupation with childish interests attacked unexpectedly today while we were wandering through some small shops on our lunch hour. I spotted something....shiny.
It was glitter. I was intrigued. Check this out!
I was instantly taken with the toy. The one I chose has iridecent/opalesque glitter and is absolutely fascinating. I got the smaller version, but am beginning to regret my decision. A trip back may be in my not-too-distant future.
As an aside, one of the best birthday gifts I've ever received came from a dear friend...and the following website. https://sendaball.com/
It was glitter. I was intrigued. Check this out!
I was instantly taken with the toy. The one I chose has iridecent/opalesque glitter and is absolutely fascinating. I got the smaller version, but am beginning to regret my decision. A trip back may be in my not-too-distant future.
As an aside, one of the best birthday gifts I've ever received came from a dear friend...and the following website. https://sendaball.com/
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Quotables X2
Okay so this is slightly paraphrased....but funny nonetheless.
'Blood tubes have no morals. They take the substance of life! And what about the spleen? It just takes things out for the slightest little flaw. I mean could you live in a society like that!? You only get 120 days to begin with.'
Me: What is that supposed to be?
Ely: It's a car - heading off into the sunset. He's chasing the sun....like cowboys on steel horses.
'Blood tubes have no morals. They take the substance of life! And what about the spleen? It just takes things out for the slightest little flaw. I mean could you live in a society like that!? You only get 120 days to begin with.'
Me: What is that supposed to be?
Ely: It's a car - heading off into the sunset. He's chasing the sun....like cowboys on steel horses.
Perspective
I've been in the midst of job searching for a while now...and the process is beginning to make me a little apprehensive. Quite frankly I'm just ready to have it be overwith! Yesterday the whole thing seemed to consume my thoughts. The more I think about it, the more all these big decisions seem overwhelming and exhausting.
Anyhow, last night changed my outlook. I woke up around 3AM in a dead panic. In my dreams I somehow discovered the only job anyone would hire me for was in specimen receiving. (where essentially you type names and demographics into a computer all day)
I wish I could describe the relief I felt waking up. Although I know that the dream has absolutely no basis in reality, I have a whole new appreciation for the job search I'm able to do now!
Anyhow, last night changed my outlook. I woke up around 3AM in a dead panic. In my dreams I somehow discovered the only job anyone would hire me for was in specimen receiving. (where essentially you type names and demographics into a computer all day)
I wish I could describe the relief I felt waking up. Although I know that the dream has absolutely no basis in reality, I have a whole new appreciation for the job search I'm able to do now!
Monday, June 9, 2008
Quotables Of Ely (aka Larry...aka Wallace)
1: "God, I hate radiation training. I swear it's almost worth the cancer."
2: On my opinion of mustaches being totally creepy: "Mustache culture is pretty cool. You get to do things like wear all denim....or just leave porn laying around your apartment."
3: "No, see, I don't take hydrocodone as a pain reliever, I only take it 'cause I'm an addict."
4: During a game of catchphrase "Oh! Okay. You use a Bedazzler to put these things on your clothes!" .... blank stares .... "Time out, Ely. Why are you so familiar with Bedazzlers?"
More to come....stay tuned!
2: On my opinion of mustaches being totally creepy: "Mustache culture is pretty cool. You get to do things like wear all denim....or just leave porn laying around your apartment."
3: "No, see, I don't take hydrocodone as a pain reliever, I only take it 'cause I'm an addict."
4: During a game of catchphrase "Oh! Okay. You use a Bedazzler to put these things on your clothes!" .... blank stares .... "Time out, Ely. Why are you so familiar with Bedazzlers?"
More to come....stay tuned!
Sunday, May 25, 2008
I'm Alive!
I'm alive and well in Rochester, MN! Life is good, we're all settled in, and have completed our orientation (thank GOD). Life has slowed considerably and the whirlwind of class/finals/papers/projects/work/packing/moving/whateva has finally begun to die down.
For those who may not know, I'm ALMOST done with my degree. 8 weeks of interning at the Mayo Clinic and 40 pages of research manuscript until I'll officially be Stacie Gasser, Master of Science in Molecular Pathology. Then I get to sit for the certification exams. (yuck) This year has quite possibly been the most ridiculous and stressful of them all, but it's almost over and for that I'm thankful.
I'm back to feeling like myself -- keeping a regular workout schedule, eating (relatively) healthy, reading for pleasure, smiling more of the time, and generally being more secure in being me. All-in-all I'm getting to rearrange my priorities so that they're back where I like them to stay!
Still no job, future remains uncertain. I won't get into it because I'm tired of thinking/talking about it - I'm just trying to 'be' for a little bit and see where life takes me.
So, world, I'm back. It feels good!
For those who may not know, I'm ALMOST done with my degree. 8 weeks of interning at the Mayo Clinic and 40 pages of research manuscript until I'll officially be Stacie Gasser, Master of Science in Molecular Pathology. Then I get to sit for the certification exams. (yuck) This year has quite possibly been the most ridiculous and stressful of them all, but it's almost over and for that I'm thankful.
I'm back to feeling like myself -- keeping a regular workout schedule, eating (relatively) healthy, reading for pleasure, smiling more of the time, and generally being more secure in being me. All-in-all I'm getting to rearrange my priorities so that they're back where I like them to stay!
Still no job, future remains uncertain. I won't get into it because I'm tired of thinking/talking about it - I'm just trying to 'be' for a little bit and see where life takes me.
So, world, I'm back. It feels good!
Monday, March 31, 2008
This week's agenda
Monday: Begin Southern blot, innoculate culture sets for research, study for Stats, find/copy article for Genetics, design primers for assay development
Tuesday: Hybridize southern blot, Stats exam, Prep/run growth curves for research, innoculate 2nd set of cultures, make media, compile notebook, begin stuhealth testing
Wednesday: Southern blot detection, read growth curves, prep/run 2nd set of growth curves, complete stuhealth testing, format paper sources, study for Genetics and Techniques
Thursday: Read growth curves, work on assay development, work on notebook, study for Genetics/Techniques, begin stuhealth testing
Friday: Genetics and Techniques exams, complete stuhealth testing, clean lab, sub cultures, drive to Canyon to see my sweet sister :)
In between: Class, workout, fix the car, pay bills (eek), whatever else comes up!!
That was more for my own good - because it means almost nothing to anyone else and I didn't really have a plan yet! (and we all know that unfortunately not all of that stuff is going to get done.) I suppose the whole point of doing this on the blog is to partially explain my lack of substantial posting. I'll be back in May...
*sigh*
Tuesday: Hybridize southern blot, Stats exam, Prep/run growth curves for research, innoculate 2nd set of cultures, make media, compile notebook, begin stuhealth testing
Wednesday: Southern blot detection, read growth curves, prep/run 2nd set of growth curves, complete stuhealth testing, format paper sources, study for Genetics and Techniques
Thursday: Read growth curves, work on assay development, work on notebook, study for Genetics/Techniques, begin stuhealth testing
Friday: Genetics and Techniques exams, complete stuhealth testing, clean lab, sub cultures, drive to Canyon to see my sweet sister :)
In between: Class, workout, fix the car, pay bills (eek), whatever else comes up!!
That was more for my own good - because it means almost nothing to anyone else and I didn't really have a plan yet! (and we all know that unfortunately not all of that stuff is going to get done.) I suppose the whole point of doing this on the blog is to partially explain my lack of substantial posting. I'll be back in May...
*sigh*
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Rodent Homicide
If any of you are members of PETA, you can go ahead and put me on your hit list.
This Friday we're euthanizing the 90-ish mice we've been experimenting with. My sister asked today if I was going to be sad, and was shocked to learn that my feelings on the matter are quite the opposite. Not only am I not sad, I'm kind-of looking forward to it.
Hear me out before you crown me the Ice Queen! These mice have been nothing but trouble from the get-go. They're not even my project, yet they've monopolized all my time and energy in the lab. I haven't worked on my project since November, and deadlines are fast approaching. Hopefully you're able to see why I'm a bit apprehensive! The actual death/dissection process doesn't necessarily appeal to me, but I'm definitely eager to be done with them and back to work on my own stuff. Friday is going to be a long, bloody day.
This Friday we're euthanizing the 90-ish mice we've been experimenting with. My sister asked today if I was going to be sad, and was shocked to learn that my feelings on the matter are quite the opposite. Not only am I not sad, I'm kind-of looking forward to it.
Hear me out before you crown me the Ice Queen! These mice have been nothing but trouble from the get-go. They're not even my project, yet they've monopolized all my time and energy in the lab. I haven't worked on my project since November, and deadlines are fast approaching. Hopefully you're able to see why I'm a bit apprehensive! The actual death/dissection process doesn't necessarily appeal to me, but I'm definitely eager to be done with them and back to work on my own stuff. Friday is going to be a long, bloody day.
Monday, February 18, 2008
BIG Nerds
Myself and 3 of my classmates went to lunch today after class. While there I was bitching about a cut I have on my finger. It's about the equivalent of a paper cut, but this morning I happened to spill acetic acid on it and it burned like hell -- so of course I'm crying about it all day long.
Anyhow, that story prompted Ely to ask everyone what their favorite acid was. He honestly has a favorite acid. I'm not kidding. We learned that Amy's 'more of a base person, really'. This led to a discussion of what our favorite bacteria are. Seriously, we had this conversation. We all participated. I was pretty much in disbelief myself. We reeeeeeeeally need to get out of school. God help me, I need a life!!
Anyhow, that story prompted Ely to ask everyone what their favorite acid was. He honestly has a favorite acid. I'm not kidding. We learned that Amy's 'more of a base person, really'. This led to a discussion of what our favorite bacteria are. Seriously, we had this conversation. We all participated. I was pretty much in disbelief myself. We reeeeeeeeally need to get out of school. God help me, I need a life!!
Sunday, February 17, 2008
Gimpy
My brother had his knee surgery about a week ago. Due to the fact that he's currently sans girlfriend, I'm the one he calls to help take care of him.
His phone call woke me up this morning, and I spent pretty much my entire day over there helping him clean/move around/do laundry/wash dishes.....and all the other crap that someone with a bum leg might need help with. Anyhow, we get to mass this afternoon and on our way up to communion he attemps to TRIP ME with his crutches! I'm in 3" heels on a polished cement floor, and he's got his crutches underneath my feet the entire way up to the front of the church. As if I don't have enough coordination issues on my own!
Next time I help wash his sheets, I'm totally throwing poison ivy in there. Or something. I may need some help with sabotage ideas. Let me know if you have any suggestions!
His phone call woke me up this morning, and I spent pretty much my entire day over there helping him clean/move around/do laundry/wash dishes.....and all the other crap that someone with a bum leg might need help with. Anyhow, we get to mass this afternoon and on our way up to communion he attemps to TRIP ME with his crutches! I'm in 3" heels on a polished cement floor, and he's got his crutches underneath my feet the entire way up to the front of the church. As if I don't have enough coordination issues on my own!
Next time I help wash his sheets, I'm totally throwing poison ivy in there. Or something. I may need some help with sabotage ideas. Let me know if you have any suggestions!
Friday, February 15, 2008
Who loves you!?
Happy day after Valentines day!!
I spent Valentines day at the coffeeshop studying (Are you picking up on my enthusiasm?) for my two exams today -- and while there, I experienced both the high and low of my 2008 Valentines day.
I was kind-of broken up with. (Well as much as you can be broken up with when you're not actually in a relationship) Via text message. On Valentines day. Awesome. I don't think it gets much better than that. The best thing about Valentines day was my random run-in with Josh and Ricardo at the coffeeshop....doing homework as well. Josh asked me to be his Valentine for the last hour and a half of the day, and bought me an apple. It was simple and sweet and absolutely made my day!
Today is Alisha's birthday, and we're going to a film festival. I intended to make her red velvet cake, but couldn't find my full-size cake pans, so I wound up making several miniature red velvet cakes. They're adooooooooorable!!
I spent Valentines day at the coffeeshop studying (Are you picking up on my enthusiasm?) for my two exams today -- and while there, I experienced both the high and low of my 2008 Valentines day.
I was kind-of broken up with. (Well as much as you can be broken up with when you're not actually in a relationship) Via text message. On Valentines day. Awesome. I don't think it gets much better than that. The best thing about Valentines day was my random run-in with Josh and Ricardo at the coffeeshop....doing homework as well. Josh asked me to be his Valentine for the last hour and a half of the day, and bought me an apple. It was simple and sweet and absolutely made my day!
Today is Alisha's birthday, and we're going to a film festival. I intended to make her red velvet cake, but couldn't find my full-size cake pans, so I wound up making several miniature red velvet cakes. They're adooooooooorable!!
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
South Park
Comedy Central is sponsoring a South Park 'School Sucks' Week.
I'm totally in.
I ordered graduation announcements today so at least something about school is exciting....they're really fun, so mission accomplished :)
Mom and Dad want me to have pictures taken, too -- so I'll probly do that. If anybody knows a decent photographer in Lubbock, let me know! I'd like to do the cheezy take pictures on campus bit along with some fun unique portraiture stuff.
I'm gonna spend the rest of my evening writing this stupid paper so that I don't flunk out and have to return the announcements. That would definitely be uncool.
I'm totally in.
I ordered graduation announcements today so at least something about school is exciting....they're really fun, so mission accomplished :)
Mom and Dad want me to have pictures taken, too -- so I'll probly do that. If anybody knows a decent photographer in Lubbock, let me know! I'd like to do the cheezy take pictures on campus bit along with some fun unique portraiture stuff.
I'm gonna spend the rest of my evening writing this stupid paper so that I don't flunk out and have to return the announcements. That would definitely be uncool.
Monday, February 11, 2008
CSI
So there's actually a CSI job open in New York City that I'm qualified for. As tempting as it is, I really don't think I want to live in New York -- but it's kinda cool to know that I'm capable of doing that now!
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
Sunny Spots
Yesterday was a pretty rough day, but a couple people brightened my mood and I thought it was worth posting. I found out that the research project I've been spending 3 days a week working on for the past 2 1/2 months is basically ruined because the Animal Care and Use facility doesn't know what the hell they're doing and screwed up the mice. It's incredibly frustrating.
In any case, I was talking to my little sister today and the conversation went a little something like this:
--Well I know you had a bad day, so I wanted to send you flowers....except I'm poor. And we sat around the floor thinking of things to put on the card, but everything we thought of had the F word in it, and we didn't think the flower company would appreciate that. We wanted to put 'Three blind mice. Sorry the lab F'd you over. Love you lots'
Secondly, I found out that a friend of mine passed my phone number along to another one of his buddies who's going to school here in Lubbock. When I expressed concern about him handing out my phone number, he simply responded 'Well I don't think he's the type to stalk you down and kill you. *pause* But if he does, I guess I was wrong'. Hah - that instills confidence, huh?
So my day's going a little bit better today, but I have some serious work to do so I'm off. Happy Mardi Gras!!
In any case, I was talking to my little sister today and the conversation went a little something like this:
--Well I know you had a bad day, so I wanted to send you flowers....except I'm poor. And we sat around the floor thinking of things to put on the card, but everything we thought of had the F word in it, and we didn't think the flower company would appreciate that. We wanted to put 'Three blind mice. Sorry the lab F'd you over. Love you lots'
Secondly, I found out that a friend of mine passed my phone number along to another one of his buddies who's going to school here in Lubbock. When I expressed concern about him handing out my phone number, he simply responded 'Well I don't think he's the type to stalk you down and kill you. *pause* But if he does, I guess I was wrong'. Hah - that instills confidence, huh?
So my day's going a little bit better today, but I have some serious work to do so I'm off. Happy Mardi Gras!!
Sunday, February 3, 2008
Superbowl!
I'm at mass this morning, and Deacon McCann said the final blessing a little differently today.
Deacon: The Lord be with you.
Congregation: And also with you.
Deacon: May almighty God bless you, and the New York Giants, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, Amen.
We have this adorable little irish priest named Father Jim -- he just laughed and shook his head in his quiet little way. It was great. -- Especially because he had just made some comment about how the superbowl didn't matter anyway 'cause the Cowboys weren't playing!
With that, I'm off to paryhop!!
Deacon: The Lord be with you.
Congregation: And also with you.
Deacon: May almighty God bless you, and the New York Giants, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, Amen.
We have this adorable little irish priest named Father Jim -- he just laughed and shook his head in his quiet little way. It was great. -- Especially because he had just made some comment about how the superbowl didn't matter anyway 'cause the Cowboys weren't playing!
With that, I'm off to paryhop!!
Friday, February 1, 2008
Decisions
Well, after much involved thought and investigation, my experiences have led me to decide that pursuing a PhD is not my path. I'm still applying to Baylor, but I'm fairly certain I'm going to get a job after graduation and start my career.
All I know is that I'd like to ideally work in research and development. Geographic regions that I'm willing to consider include the northeast, the northwest, Colorado, Texas (of course) and pooooooossibly Minnesota (for Mayo). Southern California is a possibility, but I'm not quite sure how I feel about that just yet.
I feel pretty good about these conclusions so far -- we'll see where they take me!!
All I know is that I'd like to ideally work in research and development. Geographic regions that I'm willing to consider include the northeast, the northwest, Colorado, Texas (of course) and pooooooossibly Minnesota (for Mayo). Southern California is a possibility, but I'm not quite sure how I feel about that just yet.
I feel pretty good about these conclusions so far -- we'll see where they take me!!
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Journal Articles
I've been reading all kinds of articles lately and have discovered that as a rule, scientists have no writing skills. Most of them have no organizational skills whatsoever and tend to make the assumption that everyone who might possibly read their article is familiar with key terms in their field of study.
In any case, I was beginning to get frustrated with one paper in particular when I read the following: 'Resulting tension positions sister chromatids on the metaphase plate creating an accurate and often visually exciting image of symmetry'. Visually exciting!? Symmetry of chromatids, really? 'Cause that's definintely not the type of visual image that gets me excited.
Oooh science people.
In any case, I was beginning to get frustrated with one paper in particular when I read the following: 'Resulting tension positions sister chromatids on the metaphase plate creating an accurate and often visually exciting image of symmetry'. Visually exciting!? Symmetry of chromatids, really? 'Cause that's definintely not the type of visual image that gets me excited.
Oooh science people.
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Lazy Sunday Morning
1) Answer the questions below
2) Take each answer and type it into Photobucket
3) Take any picture from the first page of results and post.
1. Your age:
2. Place you'd like to travel:
3. Your favorite place:
4. Your favorite object:
5. Your favorite food:
6. Your favorite animal:
7. Your favorite color:
8. Town in which you grew up:
9. The town in which you live:
10. The name of your pet:
11. The first name of someone you love:
12. Your nickname:
13. Your middle name:
2) Take each answer and type it into Photobucket
3) Take any picture from the first page of results and post.
1. Your age:
2. Place you'd like to travel:
3. Your favorite place:
4. Your favorite object:
5. Your favorite food:
6. Your favorite animal:
7. Your favorite color:
8. Town in which you grew up:
9. The town in which you live:
10. The name of your pet:
11. The first name of someone you love:
12. Your nickname:
13. Your middle name:
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Billboards
This weekend I drove with a group of people to Durango, CO to ski at Purgatory. It's been quite some time since I've been on an honest-to-God road trip, and I forgot how much fun/frustrating they can be!! It was good times.....aside from the part where the lead car made a wrong turn and we followed them to Farmington, NM. That part wasn't so fun, but we did get to see a gigantic bilboard with a picture of Christ that read 'Jesus is Watching You' posted RIGHT outside an adult video store. Welcome to Farmington! Classic.
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Ewwww
I haven't worked out in like a week. Today, I ate a cheeseburger then came home and caught a documentary on this morbidly obese guy while I was doing laundry. Now I feel all gross and uncomfortable. Part of me is justifying the cheeseburger by convincing myself that the fat's going to be necessary to keep me warm on top of the mountain this weekend. Hah!
I'm going to utterly tear my body up skiing -- I haven't been in a while, so I fully expect it to be incredibly painful but totally worth it!! I can't wait to get back to my good eating habits and workout schedule next week. I'm assuming I will barely be able to walk for the first couple days, so I'm going to do an apple cleanse to kick off my return to healthy living. We'll see how it goes!
I'M SO EXCITED TO SKI!!!!
p.s. Davies told me that I look like a New Orleans hippie today. I'm not even sure what that means....
I'm going to utterly tear my body up skiing -- I haven't been in a while, so I fully expect it to be incredibly painful but totally worth it!! I can't wait to get back to my good eating habits and workout schedule next week. I'm assuming I will barely be able to walk for the first couple days, so I'm going to do an apple cleanse to kick off my return to healthy living. We'll see how it goes!
I'M SO EXCITED TO SKI!!!!
p.s. Davies told me that I look like a New Orleans hippie today. I'm not even sure what that means....
Monday, January 14, 2008
Update!
School:
It's my final full semester in Lubbock - but unfortunately I'll be spending the majority of it in the Library (the one with the books...not the one with the liquor) or the lab
Research is trucking along - I spend about 4 hours every day with the mice. They're super cute, but it's getting old pretty quick - same thing eeeeeeeevery day. Ugh.
Classes are okay so far but will be picking up quickly. I have to research, write, and work a 20-25 page paper into shape to submit for publication by Feb. 15th soooooooo I've been doing a lot of reading to get enough background to get started.
Lab - starts Wednesday, so I'm not really sure how that will be quite yet!
Family:
Doing well for the most part!! Cam's starting her 2nd semester of nursing school an loving it -- Sean will be having knee surgery in a couple of weeks. He tore his ACL and a couple meniscuses, so there ya go. He's not really excited, but you gotta do what you gotta do. He's also had a bad case of iritis lately, so he's going early in the morning to get a steroid shot in his eye, which is no fun. I've only had it once, but it hurts like a bitch!!
Mom and Dad just helped me through the process of buying a new car!! I'm pretty excited about it -- I now drive a copper/metallic orangeish eclipse with a cute lil' sunroof. I'm going to miss driving my truck. It's been good to me, but I'm def. going to enjoy the lower gas bills! I already noticed a difference today when it would have been way convenient to plow over a little curb.....but the sportscar wouldn't exactly handle that well!!
Lastly, I spent the past weekend in Vegas. In the interest of brevity I won't go into detail beyond admitting that I did Vegas right ;) It was a great time and it was fantastic to see that group of girls together again! I have to survive 3 1/2 more days and then I'll be headed up to Durango CO to go skiing!! I'm pretty stoked.
Anyhow, that's a brief update on my life. I'll be back to my regular brief, pointless blogging soon :)
It's my final full semester in Lubbock - but unfortunately I'll be spending the majority of it in the Library (the one with the books...not the one with the liquor) or the lab
Research is trucking along - I spend about 4 hours every day with the mice. They're super cute, but it's getting old pretty quick - same thing eeeeeeeevery day. Ugh.
Classes are okay so far but will be picking up quickly. I have to research, write, and work a 20-25 page paper into shape to submit for publication by Feb. 15th soooooooo I've been doing a lot of reading to get enough background to get started.
Lab - starts Wednesday, so I'm not really sure how that will be quite yet!
Family:
Doing well for the most part!! Cam's starting her 2nd semester of nursing school an loving it -- Sean will be having knee surgery in a couple of weeks. He tore his ACL and a couple meniscuses, so there ya go. He's not really excited, but you gotta do what you gotta do. He's also had a bad case of iritis lately, so he's going early in the morning to get a steroid shot in his eye, which is no fun. I've only had it once, but it hurts like a bitch!!
Mom and Dad just helped me through the process of buying a new car!! I'm pretty excited about it -- I now drive a copper/metallic orangeish eclipse with a cute lil' sunroof. I'm going to miss driving my truck. It's been good to me, but I'm def. going to enjoy the lower gas bills! I already noticed a difference today when it would have been way convenient to plow over a little curb.....but the sportscar wouldn't exactly handle that well!!
Lastly, I spent the past weekend in Vegas. In the interest of brevity I won't go into detail beyond admitting that I did Vegas right ;) It was a great time and it was fantastic to see that group of girls together again! I have to survive 3 1/2 more days and then I'll be headed up to Durango CO to go skiing!! I'm pretty stoked.
Anyhow, that's a brief update on my life. I'll be back to my regular brief, pointless blogging soon :)
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