Things I am feeling positive about this week:
* Celebrating my birthday tomorrow with some Korean BBQ followed by karaoke.
* A good friend who is coming to town to do an off-broadway show is arriving a couple days early so he can spend the weekend with us.
* I’m turning 36, which is great because I prefer even numbers.
* Haven’t found a grey hair since January 1st, 2011 despite not coloring it.
* Pumpkin-spiced lattes are on the horizon!
* Over 400 of you signed up for the newsletter in the last few days.
* Rode my bike twice, which isn’t enough, but it’s better than nothing especially considering how wet and dreary the weather was this week.
* The weather is looking much better for next week.
* Toast.
And you?
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Rosie September 7, 2012, 4:13 pm
FOOTBALL is back. 🙂 Have a wonderful weekend!
kerrycontrary September 7, 2012, 4:14 pm
I love thinking of positive things and stuff I have to be grateful for:
1) My boyfriend and I are going river tubing and then camping tomorrow for our 3 YEAR anniversary. It’s going to be awesome. And even if it isn’t awesome and it rains (which it might) I’ll be hanging out with my best bosom buddy all day long. He’s really a gem and I’m glad we are just like 2 peas in a pod most of the time.
2) I blew out my knee last weekend dancing at my brother’s wedding, but it’s finally starting to feel better, and I can start doing exercises on it.
3) My team is moving around at work and I can be closer to the window with a kickass view of DC, the Potomac, and Georgetown.
4) This is behind, but my brother and his now wife had a really awesome wedding. So awesome that I hurt my knee. Like it was so fun and everyone got drunk and danced a LOT. And I’ve never seen him that happy and lovey dovey, so I’m really happy he found his person.
HmC September 7, 2012, 5:00 pm
Happy anniversary, that sounds like a perfect anniversary celebration! Ah river tubing sounds perfect on this hot day…
kerrycontrary September 7, 2012, 5:10 pm
Thank you 🙂 I hope the weather holds out..but I figure if it’s raining it doesn’t matter since we are already wet. He wanted to go rafting, but I went rafting once in Alaska and legit almost died so no.
iwannatalktosampson September 7, 2012, 8:42 pm
I love number 4. I love love. (Well not on an AP level – but a normal level). And I love it when you can see the people you love at their happiest. Sadly I haven’t been to one of those weddings in a while. I think actually the last wedding I went to was my own. Which is sad that was 2 years ago.
buttoned September 7, 2012, 8:03 pm
Aw, happy anniversary! That sounds some really awesome plans. I want to know how it goes!
Christy September 8, 2012, 10:20 am
Window view! Seriously, it’s why I’m in a smaller cubicle and still sitting with the interns.
GatorGirl September 7, 2012, 4:15 pm
Happyy Birthday Wendy!! Your plans sounds amazing!
I’m feeling positive this week about
*The NFL is back!! GO BIRDS.
*Highs are finally out of the 90’s every day here. Love me some cool 86 degree weather.
*We’re under 275 days until my wedding! Woo!
*I’m at my healthiest (and heaviest) weight and I feel awesome.
*My fiance works tonight so I will be enduldging in Say Yes to the Dress and a VMA rerun.
*The DNC was awesome and I feel inspired to get involved in the election.
Addie Pray September 7, 2012, 4:57 pm
Wasn’t the DNC just divine? I only watched a few speeches, though. I actually have no idea what’s going on in the world of politics. It’s like Mizzou football – I love to cheer for my team but I never know what the hell is going on – I’m too busy chatting with friends over drinks and not paying attention unless there’s some big touch down. I just know what I believe. And I know I like my Bill, Hil, Michelly, Barry, etc. … all the people IWANNA hates, haha. 🙂
GatorGirl September 7, 2012, 5:04 pm
I watched a solid amount of the RNC too and it just solidified my choice and motivated me to get involved. I’m not a politics buff or anything but I just think we’re at a point where if I don’t educate myself I’m going to start loosing some rights that are important to me.
Also, Mizzou as in just joined the SEC Mizzou? We’re going to have some beef later this year if so!
Addie Pray September 7, 2012, 5:09 pm
Yes, that’s my Mizzou! We are the best. I hate that we are now in the SEC b/c (1) I hate change and (2) now I have to figure out all the new teams I hate. It was much easier just to remember I loathe Oklahoma and Kansas.
theattack September 7, 2012, 5:12 pm
I’ll make it easy for you. You probably won’t like Alabama, Florida, Tennessee, or Kentucky. Most everyone else is irrelevant as far as I can tell, but don’t hold that against me. I went to a major SEC football school for four years and still don’t really know very much about it all.
Addie Pray September 7, 2012, 5:28 pm
Gosh that’s so many teams to hate. Should I just hate everything except Mizzou and Northwestern (my other alma mater that I forget about b/c everyone knows Mizzou is the best anyway)?
theattack September 7, 2012, 5:30 pm
Haha, I have no idea! Isn’t the SEC supposed to have more big name teams than other uhhh….. leagues? regions? I don’t know. I’m embarrassing myself here.
GatorGirl September 7, 2012, 5:48 pm
Haha. The SEC has two divisions. East and West. Mizzou is in the East as is Florida, Tennessee, Georgia, South Carolina, Vandy and Kentucky. The West is LSU, Abalama, Auburn, Ole Miss, Miss State, Texas A&M and Arkansas. In the East you only really need to worry about Florida, Georiga and SC. The SEC is freaking awesome.
theattack September 7, 2012, 5:51 pm
Awhh you’re not worried about my alma mater anymore. 🙁 Not that I’m at all surprised since we’ve had coaches in and out over the past few years.
GatorGirl September 7, 2012, 5:57 pm
Well, I was talking strictly football. Some of the other schools are super good at basketball.
Addie Pray September 8, 2012, 10:23 am
oh this is already too complicated. i’m just gonna stick with hating oklahoma and kansas. it took years to develop and cultivate my hatred toward them. i just don’t think at 33 there are enough years left in my life to develop and cultivate hatred for any new schools. i really have no idea what is going on anyway.
Christy September 8, 2012, 10:22 am
LSU. Can forget Les Miles. And Auburn, they won it all in 2011.
Roll Tide!
iwannatalktosampson September 7, 2012, 8:45 pm
Oh I absolutely do not hate all those people. I would vote for Hilary for sure. She would make my voting conundrum a slam dunk. But I guess I will just have to wait to see who I hate less by election day, haha. And I like Michelle. Well that’s not necessarily true – I like her biceps.
Red_Lady September 7, 2012, 8:51 pm
I so wish I had her arms. But not enough to actually do anything about it. Damn lack of motivation….
Addie Pray September 7, 2012, 9:00 pm
Her arms are to die for!
jlyfsh September 7, 2012, 4:16 pm
Happy Birthday, Wendy! I hope you get a pair of those earrings you want. Especially the little starfish, too cute!
I’ve almost lost 20 pounds!
I get to go home and see my family and drink wine with friends next weekend.
I get to meet 2 friend’s babies for the first time next weekend too.
I found this new pomegranate tea at Target that I am obsessed with, I had 4 glasses today, therefore I’m floating home.
I’m starting to get better at tennis.
I don’t have to work a full week again until October 🙂
theattack September 7, 2012, 5:05 pm
Holy crap, you lost 20 pounds?! Wow, that’s amazing! Care to share what you’ve been doing?
I also want you to share what kind of tea it is that you’re drinking, because I’m about to make a grocery trip! And I’m pretty selfishly happy that you won’t have to work as much this month, because SURELY that means more of jlyfsh on DW, right? Yes? Good!
jlyfsh September 7, 2012, 5:31 pm
working hard, haha. i use my fitness pal to log everything i eat and all the exercise i do. my husband and I have changed our ‘lifestyle’. I gave up diet sodas (so hard to do) and drink only water, green tea or flavored water (crystal light). we took red meat out of our diet and reduced the amount of meat we eat over all. which was so so hard for my meat loving husband m. i take my lunch every single day to work (done it for 6 weeks straight now, woohoo). i replaced fun things with equally yummy things. like fiber one makes brownies, cookies and bars that are so tasty. each one only has 90 calories and is high in fiber. you can feel good about eating one and they are super tasty, especially put in the microwave for 10 seconds (not the bars, but the cookies and brownies). and i work out 5 to 6 days a week. i do a combo of weights and cardio. i’m also trying to do the c25k program, but i’ve found i just plain suck at running. and i play tennis 3 nights week.
it’s become fun though to see just how healthy we can make meals and i’ve made a game out of how much i can make myself sweat. if i don’t come home with a sweat soaked pony tail i didn’t work hard enough!
and the tea is by lipton i think it’s pomegranate/gogi berry??? there is a line of new i think ‘natural’ teas by them. they are in a very different looking box, trying to look like the stash (is that the company?) teas. it is seriously delicious. and they make a blueberry something green tea that is caffeine free that is quite tasty too!
and i wish but it actually means a lot of traveling and meetings at work. but i will still find plenty of time for DW!!
theattack September 7, 2012, 5:53 pm
Uhmmm that’s really impressive. But I’ve gotta say I’m disappointed in your response. I was hoping for something along the lines of “I lost 20 pounds by putting sour cream and cheddar cheese on at least two foods a day, drinking Dr. Pepper, and finishing off the evening with fudge swirl ice cream and Hershey’s syrup.”
jlyfsh September 7, 2012, 5:59 pm
some days i dream that’s true and then i wake up….however weight watchers have some mighty tasty ice cream products out there right now! 😉
jlyfsh September 7, 2012, 5:59 pm
has not have, oh well
HmC September 7, 2012, 6:03 pm
Dude good for you. Keep it up, and be proud of yourself! Don’t get frustrated with any setbacks, just keep chugging along like Thomas the engine that could. Long term weight loss, keeping the weight off that is, is hard, but gradual lifestyle choices like that ones you’ve made are what it’s all about!
jlyfsh September 7, 2012, 7:18 pm
thanks HmC. some days I get kind of weird about being proud of it, but i have to remind myself i’m doing a good job! 🙂
iwannatalktosampson September 7, 2012, 8:47 pm
Um Crystal light is the bomb diggity. Ethan and I go through a box of it a week – at a minimum – so at least 2 gallons a day.
And congrats on the weight loss! I lost about that much before my wedding and I felt so good about myself. I have gained 15 of those back though, haha.
Kristen September 7, 2012, 4:17 pm
I definitely need some positivity in my life, so this thread is coming at the perfect time. I’m loving reading everyone’s!
Things I’m excited about:
— I just realized my favorite sushi roll is made up of cooked ingredients, so I can eat it while pregnant! This realization seriously made my whole week, and now I can’t wait to go to our favorite Japanese restaurant.
— Fall is coming up, which means pumpkin bread and orange leaves and cozy nights inside.
— My first trimester ends in 3.5 weeks, which I’m trying to pretend is right around the corner. Right now, it feels like an eternity.
— We go on Tuesday for our first ultrasound, which is really exciting. I think it’ll make everything seem more real and we can start telling people.
— October means pumpkin carving, and I LOVE pulling out all that orange stringy stuff. It’s awesome.
(Now I’m really wishing September would hurry up!)
GatorGirl September 7, 2012, 4:24 pm
Goodness I can’t beleive you’re that close to being through your first trimester. So exciting! I hope you’re feeling well!
Kristen September 7, 2012, 4:27 pm
Thanks! I know, it’s pretty crazy. I think I’m starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel. The last few weeks have kind of been filled with moderate depression and puking in the shower every morning, but it should hopefully go away after this month. I just can’t wait to be interested in food again!
GatorGirl September 7, 2012, 5:06 pm
Oh goodness. Shower puking?? I always push the totally crappy parts of pregnancy out of my mind when I’m daydreaming of a big fat baby filled belly. How the barfing stops soon!
Kristen September 7, 2012, 5:07 pm
Hahaha. Lovely, right? At least it’s easy to clean up that way, though 😉
theattack September 7, 2012, 4:57 pm
Aww, this made me really happy. 🙂 I really hope that the next few months of your life are just filled with happy pregnant thoughts with your new husband, warm baked goods, pumpkin carving, and beautiful fall things.
Kristen September 7, 2012, 5:06 pm
That is such a sweet thing to say. Thank you!!
jlyfsh September 7, 2012, 5:33 pm
sushi makes me pretty happy too!
it is surprising how quickly time has gone!! and i am so ready for everything pumpkin. have you seen this months scentsy warmer? it’s a pumpkin, i want it, but i don’t want to spend the money on it. so i just think about how cute it is all the time.
Kristen September 8, 2012, 7:41 pm
I just looked it up, and it’s so cute! I love that it has a pumpkin-top lid 🙂
theattack September 7, 2012, 4:17 pm
– My fiance and I are finally getting settled into our new apartment. We thought we were renting a mediocre apartment, but this place is pretty amazing! Brand new granite countertops, tile backsplashes, tile floors in the kitchen and bathroom, brand new AMAZING carpet, wonderful windows, fancy crown molding, huge storage closets. It’s not at all like the model we looked at, and we feel like we’re living somewhere way out of our means, but the apartment is actually under our pretty meager budget! So that’s an enormously happy thing in my life right now.
– Almost everything is unpacked, and most things have a home now. Even though I’ve been really stressing about not finding a job yet, it’s given me an opportunity to organize our home, rewash all the linens and dishes, etc.
– His new office is making some awesome progress. He already has some business, and the new secretary is working out so far. I have to take some credit for his office though, because another benefit of not having a job yet has been the ability to help get his set up. It no longer looks like a sketchy human trafficking facade after my work on decoration and furniture-assembly.
– My old friend who lives in Australia came to visit in May, and she worked at a summer camp in CA over the summer teaching flying trapeze and stunt work, and she’s going to fly out and visit me for a couple of days next week before she heads back to the other side of the world!
– One of my best friends just got married and moved to a town about half an hour away from my new city, so I have at least one friend kind of close by.
– I’m getting better at writing cover letters, and my resume looks awesome for what it is. Let’s hope someone else can see that and give me an interview soon!
Kristen September 7, 2012, 4:21 pm
I can’t remember – what field are you in? For some reason I was thinking social work. I’m sending lots of good luck and wishes your way in your job search 🙂
theattack September 7, 2012, 4:30 pm
Thanks so much! And yup, it’s social work! It seemed like there were a lot of social work job postings earlier in the summer before I could apply for them, but now that I’m in a position to start working, nothing’s open! If I don’t start seeing more job postings in the next few business days, I’m going to apply for some hardware stores or factory jobs in the meantime. I’m just feeling really antsy and unproductive not working.
buttoned September 7, 2012, 8:06 pm
The description of your apartment just gave me a decorgasm.
Something More September 7, 2012, 4:20 pm
My positives:
1) Finally got the first week of school done. With an anxious-about-middle-school 6th grader and a freshman (eek!!) it was nerve racking, but everyone survived with only mild trama.
2) I’m starting a new diet on Monday with my boyfriend. Yay?
3) OK, this is harder than I thought!
4) Football!! Go Bills!
Ok, that’s better.
Lili September 7, 2012, 4:42 pm
1) Football is back!!!
2) My Birthday is in a few days, and i’m planning a fun girls bash and feel so lucky to have such an amazing group of friends to celebrate with!
3)Looking forward to a relaxing weekend, sleeping in Saturday, a concert, and then Sunday!!!
4) Excited for fall!
call-me-hobo September 7, 2012, 4:53 pm
You’re a landscape picture now, too? IWTTS is such a trendsetter.
Lili September 7, 2012, 5:00 pm
hahaha I know right yay IWTTS! I felt like I was TOO obvious in my pic, and needed some of my anonymity back. Esp since I’ve started referring DW to friends…(who do not know about my high school nickname!)
Addie Pray September 7, 2012, 9:49 pm
now i want a landscape picture. I’m gonna try to find one.
iwannatalktosampson September 7, 2012, 10:17 pm
You should use the landscape picture you used for your reader of the week! Remember those? We should bring those back in style. We have so many new frequent commenters that I want to disclose more of their life.
iwannatalktosampson September 7, 2012, 10:18 pm
Lives?
Christy September 8, 2012, 10:28 am
No I love yours!
And AP, it took me until last month to learn who you actually were. I found you on LinkedIn but decided not to list you as a contact because 1. I don’t want you to know who I am (muah hah hah) and 2. all you could say about my work ethic is that I am online a lot.
So what I’m saying is, I love your picture and you’re hard to decipher.
And I’m hopeless–my gf knows my avatar and it’s my real first name.
Addie Pray September 8, 2012, 3:04 pm
waaa?? you gotta link me in or whatever the phrase is on silly linked in. i feel so vulnerable – you knowing me, me not knowing you!
Christy September 8, 2012, 11:41 pm
Did it.
LadyinPurpleNotRed September 7, 2012, 4:47 pm
1. I agree with everyone that said football being back is reason for celebration!
2. In two weeks I’ll be back in Chicago for a long weekend and get to see my boyfriend, which I CANNOT wait for.
3. I’m making friends in grad school and have an awesome new assignment for my grad assistantship, which I’m super pumped for!
call-me-hobo September 7, 2012, 5:15 pm
Is Jackson your new avatar?
LadyinPurpleNotRed September 7, 2012, 5:18 pm
He most certainly is!
Trixy Minx September 7, 2012, 4:48 pm
1) my antidepressants are working very well. I now have this huge desire to just go go go and because if that and all my workouts ( anyone been to camelback mountain?) I’ve lost 5lbs in a week and a half.
2) the weather is changing. It rained all day today and hailed a little to. I’m so sick of the heat.
3) I feel like going camping soon
SweetsAndBeats September 8, 2012, 5:01 pm
I’m so glad that they’re working 🙂 Also, so happy that you’re feeling better! You seem to be taking life by the horns and saying, “Bull, your name will now be Daisy”… You know, or something like that.
If you go camping on Mt Lemmon or anything like that I will TOTALLY bring you supplies, rations, and puppy company during the day!
Just Max September 7, 2012, 4:50 pm
1) I returned to my yoga practice this week; and it feels great!
2) I’m taking swimming classes!
3) I’m hanging out with some of my siblings this weekend!
4) I’m hanging out with some old, old friends this weekend!
5) And fall is around the corner!
😀
Addie Pray September 7, 2012, 4:59 pm
ugh, i need to return to yoga. maybe you’ll inspire me! i come up with one excuse after another why i can’t go back today.
MaterialsGirl September 7, 2012, 5:04 pm
1). HINT, HINT AP!!! Maybe sometime this weekend?
iwannatalktosampson September 7, 2012, 8:49 pm
Yeeesssss yoga.
call-me-hobo September 7, 2012, 4:51 pm
-Just completed my first week of classes/clinicals in my program, and my supervisor rated my clinical performance as a 3.5 out of 4!
-Started having a major toothache yesterday, and managed to get into the dentist today. I was freaked out that I might need a root canal-but it turns out that all I had was a bruised tooth and shifted filling. Got it fixed for free, and I should feel better in a couple days.
-Apparently, you can bruise your teeth. Weird.
-I have absolutely no plans this weekend, which is awesome.
theattack September 7, 2012, 4:55 pm
Yayyy! Congrats on the high score! And you were nervous about starting clinicals so early. 😉
emmkat September 7, 2012, 5:05 pm
This has been a great week:
1. I just moved to Chicago and got settled into my new apartment by the University, where I’m starting grad school in 3 weeks.
2. On the drive from Oregon, I got to stop in Idaho to meet my 2 month old nephew for the first time. He and his older brother are the best and cutest little boys I’ve ever seen.
3. I get to see a couple friends this weekend who I haven’t seen in a few years.
4. My parents and I got to spend some quality time together while I was home for the summer, which was great after being overseas for 3 years and away from my hometown for almost 10. I’m sad it’s now over, but it was so wonderful while it lasted.
And it’s just going to get better from here!
mf September 7, 2012, 5:39 pm
Where in Chicago are you living? I live there too 🙂
emmkat September 7, 2012, 6:09 pm
Hyde Park, right next to the U of C campus.
Addie Pray September 7, 2012, 5:07 pm
I’m excited for:
– Taking my new beau (I usually hate that word, as much as I hate “hubby”, but I am breaking all sorts of rules with my cheesy von cheese romance) on my favorite hike this weekend in Indiana;
– Babysitting my roommate tonight (she’s 2 – her parents are going on a date);
– Babysitting my new roommate tomorrow morning (so her parents can sleep in);
– Brunch tomorrow after babysitting duties end at this place that makes homemade poptarts;
– Seeing an old friend who is in town for a conference; and
– My condo, which had fallen through but is now back ON.
Also, today my father would have been 76. Happy birthday, Papa! (He went by “Papa”.)
Kristen September 7, 2012, 5:09 pm
Aw, happy birthday to your Dad. Also, homemade poptarts sound awesome!
jlyfsh September 7, 2012, 5:35 pm
i’ve had a homemade poptart before. so delicious! congrats on the condo!!
happy birthday to your papa 🙂
Wendy September 7, 2012, 5:50 pm
Happy birthday to your dad, AP. Good people are born in September!
Moneypenny September 7, 2012, 11:55 pm
Homemade poptarts?? You will have to tell me where this is so I can check it out when I visit Chicago!
And happy birthday to your papa!
Addie Pray September 9, 2012, 12:08 am
They were so good. They had 3 kinds and we ordered them all. But my favorite was the one savory one – goat cheese and … mushroom I think it was. And they had this homemade bacon glazed doughnut too…. All good. Diet starts Monday.
Jill September 7, 2012, 5:08 pm
It’s my birthday tomorrow, too! Happy birthday!
1) Birthday!
2) Cuban restaurant dinner with friends on Saturday to celebrate
3) Mojitios… also to celebrate
4) Touring the Italian festival after dinner
5) Seeing the family on Sunday
And btw, I heard pumpkin spice lattes are already back at Starbucks.
jlyfsh September 7, 2012, 6:01 pm
they do!! and living social has a $5 for $10 deal out right now for starbucks. not sure when it expires though! hurry and buy it! 🙂
Wendy September 7, 2012, 5:43 pm
Happy birthday, Jill! Cuban food and Mojitos sound like a perfect way to celebrate. Enjoy the birthday weekend!
Red_Lady September 7, 2012, 9:33 pm
And in the home city of Starbucks, it’s 90* out. NOT time for pumpkin spice lattes yet. I’m happy with another month of iced drinks!
HmC September 7, 2012, 5:09 pm
Ah perfect timing for this post, after my krazy kat debacle of 2012 (see forum). Happy birthday Wendy! My birthday is on Monday, we are almost birthday twins.
Stuff I’m grateful for:
1) Aforementioned kat debacle… I stood up to my neighbor without going below the belt, in my opinion. Assertiveness is something I am actively working on, so I’m proud of myself for striking a balance without getting aggressive. At least I’ve said my piece and I’m not stewing or thinking I’m crazy… hopefully it all works out.
2) Aforementioned birthday… I have like 4 different celebrations, culminating in an awesome karaoke extravaganza and all my favorite people are coming! I’m not a big birthday person, but I do love my friends and I love Korean style karaoke (you’re all in a private booth so the public remains ignorant of your horrible, dying moose singing voice and it’s all fun and all gravy).
3) My boyfriend is in Spain for work for a week and has to miss my birthday, which is sad, but it’s just a week and I kind of like our email exchanges when we’re away from each other. We live close to each other so the bulk of our communication is in person, and it’s kind of nice to have those wistful long distance chats that remind us to be thankful we have each other and that we normally get to be so close. Also I’m hoping he smuggles me back some queso and sausage and olive oil!
4) I have a really cool camping trip in October to look forward to (very scenic waterfall campsite in Grand Canyon!) plus we’re going on a hot air balloon ride in two weeks to belatedly celebrate our 2 year anniversary (it was a month ago but the place was booked and I really wanted to do this). Timing is actually good… hopefully it will be cooler by then for both of those things, as it is currently hotter than Hades here.
Happy Friday everyone!
kerrycontrary September 7, 2012, 5:12 pm
We went to the Grand Canyon last year and it was amazing! Now i’m obsessed with the southwest.
Lili September 7, 2012, 5:23 pm
FYI-WE are birthday twins. I knew we had a connection!
HmC September 7, 2012, 5:29 pm
Omg yeah! You are one of my favorites and I don’t have many because I’m crotchety and cynical and judgmental. Ha!
Lili September 7, 2012, 5:40 pm
HAHHAHA YES! Adding this to the positives of the week 🙂 And I’m planning a birthday extravaganza too! I have to do it the 15th because of scheduling with my friends–and thats alright with me, I get paid that weekend. SO win win.
HmC September 7, 2012, 5:54 pm
OMG ME TOO! My boyfriend gets back from Spain on the 14th so we’re doing the big celebration on the 15th! *cue twilight zone music*
Also, I somehow missed that Wendy is also doing Korean BBQ followed by karaoke! *cue twilight zone music again!*
Me you and Wendy are in the same… carafe? I dunno I think they said that once on My So-Called Life. Tell me you like that show and I can die happily knowing my twin walks around on earth. Probably before your time though…
Lili September 7, 2012, 6:09 pm
Seen a few episodes (out of order) a few years back, but I think I liked it! Putting it to the top of the netflix queue and will report back. Also, Karaoke is on the list for my extravaganza too! Not doing Korean BBQ cuz it reminds my bestie of her ex, and I have a strict vegetarian friend coming as well, but I wish I could! We’re doing pizza (like gigantic pizza slices pizza) instead.
HmC September 7, 2012, 6:14 pm
That still sounds like a celebration I could get on board with.
Also fair warning- the main character’s family in My So-Called Life is basically exactly my family (even two of the names!), plus she was 15 at exactly the same time I was so, you know, some of my fondness is definitely nostalgia/watching someone my age who was just like me on TV for the first time in my life. So even if you don’t like it we can still be spirit sisters, is what I’m saying.
Shell September 7, 2012, 5:12 pm
I’m looking forward to:
-A run after work (I am training for a 5k and am making some progress!)
-A DVR full of DNC and VMA goodness tonight
-Seeing my familia and dog tomorrow night
-Doing an Alzheimer’s walk in honor of my sweet grandma on Sunday with family and good friends
-Finding a glorious place for brunch after the walk
-Lakeview art festival in Chicago!
Actually feels great to write this all out, so props on the thread Wendy. Happy birthday!!
Addie Pray September 7, 2012, 5:27 pm
Oh that’s right, the lakeview art festival, I’m going to that too! Be on the look out for a little girl in black and white and wearing a little hat and dress from the 1930s like this —->
Shell September 7, 2012, 5:45 pm
I will be on the lookout!
Samantha September 7, 2012, 4:14 pm
I’m moving into a new apartment this weekend! It is not a studio, and it has a real kitchen, and it has a dish washer! It’s also incredibly cute! I’m moving up in the world.
Anna September 7, 2012, 5:25 pm
I’m feeling very positive about the offer I just made on a beautiful country home in rural Ohio today! It’s a 4br 2 ba ranch style house 1500 sq feet on 2.5 acres of pretty land and a 3 car garage. I can’t wait to hear back from the sellers and see if my offer was accepted!
katie September 7, 2012, 6:21 pm
That house is awesome. For real, I’m jealous!
Trixy Minx September 7, 2012, 6:22 pm
Yay!! I’m so happy for you Anna
Moneypenny September 7, 2012, 11:57 pm
Wow, that sounds amazing!! Good luck on your offer!
Anna September 8, 2012, 9:52 am
The anticipation is killing me. Even copious amounts of THC can’t calm my brain. I have to know if I got the house!!! If I don’t, I’ll cry. This is every country girl’s dream house, and it’s even better that I can give it to myself and don’t need a man to hook me up. 🙂
landygirl September 7, 2012, 5:44 pm
Happy Birthday fellow Virgo! A little video for you to enjoy.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X1E_73miyX8
Lili September 7, 2012, 5:56 pm
Yay So many Virgos! It explains why DW is so awesome 😉
Caris September 9, 2012, 8:30 am
This song is actually very accurate O_O
mf September 7, 2012, 5:45 pm
1. I posted last weekend on the disappearing Labor Day thread that I was terrified of starting grad school. Well, as it turns out, I love my classes and my professors. I think this term is going to be awesome and I’m really excited about it.
2. I ate accidentally ate gluten last night (I’m intolerant). I woke up with flu-like symptoms at 6 am this morning and finally am feeling mostly better late this afternoon. But on the plus side, I got to stay home from work and catch up on episodes of the Daily Show and Colbert Report. And I took TWO naps. I NEVER take naps so that like some kind of miracle.
3. I’m sooo glad it’s Friday. It’s going to be a nice, chill weekend because I have very little planned for Saturday and Sunday.
Lynn September 7, 2012, 5:45 pm
Positive/looking forward to:
1. Football season is here.
2. Baseball postseason is right around the corner.
3. I had a pumpkin spice latte from Starbucks yesterday 🙂
4. I’m working out again. I jumped to 124, and while no one can tell… I can tell, and I like to be toned and in my prefered weight range of 110-115.
5. Holidays are coming, looking forward to NYE.
6. Get to see the guy more (diff cities) since our schedules have eased up a bit.
iwannatalktosampson September 7, 2012, 8:52 pm
What is with these pumpkin spice lattes from starbucks that I keep hearing about? I think I had 4 different people have status’s about them today. What am I missing?
Rachel September 7, 2012, 11:02 pm
They are delicious..but you won’t like them.
iwannatalktosampson September 7, 2012, 11:28 pm
This is true. I just feel like it has this weird cult following. I have nothing to compare it to since I don’t like pie either so I’ve never even had pumpkin pie to sort of guess what it would taste like.
Rachel September 8, 2012, 9:54 am
They don’t really taste like pumpkin…but like the spices that are normally in pumpkin pie. So, allspice, nutmeg, cinnamon. Yum.
katie September 8, 2012, 3:47 pm
honestly, they really arent that amazing… its just another flavoring. no different or more/less special then a caramel latte or a vanilla latte or a cinnamon latte. i have always thought that pumpkin pie with coffee is an odd combination anyway- they are both too dominant to be put together, in my opinion.
Rachel September 8, 2012, 3:53 pm
I wouldn’t drink them all the time. I think it”s mostly just exciting b/c you can only get them for a short time each year.
katie September 8, 2012, 9:25 pm
oh yea- starbucks has done an amazing job of keeping that shit on lockdown. did you know that real starbucks have to THROW OUT their un-used seasonal syrups after a certain date? i worked at a “we proudly brew starbucks” coffee shop, so we had different rules, and people were so happy that we had our syrup past when the real starbucks did. it was hilarious how excited they got… lol
katie September 7, 2012, 6:23 pm
Happy birthday to Wendy!! (and Lili and hmc and everyone else up there- I lost track of you all!)
I’m on my way to my favorite restaurant. So I’m happy. Yay!
Slamy September 7, 2012, 5:29 pm
1) I’ve been working on my distance running. I can run fast, but I can’t do that for very long, so I’m working on starting out slow so that I can actually last through a run without needing to talk a walking break. Yesterday I ran TWO MILES. My goal was 19:30 and I did it in 19:20 and still had some gas left in tank! My longer-term goal is to be able to run a 5K with a 9 min/mile average. I think it’s doable.
2) I was having horrible PMS symptoms last weekend and I had a rough weekend – so I am thrilled to be feeling as good as I do today.
3) I’ve been working out a ton, and I feel really great. I feel happy. I feel fit. Life is still stressful, but I am enjoying it.
4) School starts for me on Thursday, and I am nervous but also very excited to be moving on to this chapter in my life.
JK September 7, 2012, 6:44 pm
I´m excited because today we saw the first draft of the layout for our new house. 🙂
There´s some tweaking to do to it, but I´m excited that everything is starting to seem more real.
And Happy Birthday to all the birthday people!!!
iwannatalktosampson September 7, 2012, 6:57 pm
Well I feel like there is a direct correlation between how happy everyone is and how grumpy I am right now. You’re welcome everyone – I have sucked all the negativity from the universe into my life right now and I’m eating it for you.
I hate political season. I’ll name all the reasons why: (1) people (I use the term people loosely – I really mean douchebags) on facebook LOVE to act like they know everything about everything. No one understands that whichever party you’re voting for – you’re being spoon fed bullshit propaganda. Our election season has turned into a cheesy soap opera – and I think it’s pathetic. (2) Why exactly does the media feel the need to sensationalize everything? ‘Republicans want to remove your uterus and use it as a weapon of mass destruction’ ‘democrats want everyone to be poor and live off the government so that they’re dependent on the government for everything ala hunger games’. Barf. Whatever happened to being moderate? Can no one really say that they don’t think the other side has a good point about anything? Really? People don’t even try to see the other side – which I think is debate 101. If you can’t understand the other side how do you even know you disagree with it? What’s even worse people come up with these outlandish opinions without even knowing what they’re talking about. Do y’all know that 6 (6!!) people read obamacare in it’s entirety. 6 fucking people!! Yet approximately 36 billion people seem to have strong opinions about it all over my newsfeed. I don’t know if it’s bad. I don’t know if it’s good. I just don’t fucking know – because I didn’t read it. Shit I wasn’t even willing to even read the 65 page Supreme Court opinion on it.
Moral of the story is that I am going to have to defriend or hide 80% of the people I am friends with on facebook. You know what I’m going to do on election day? Throw a huge fucking party that signifies the end of me hating everyone. Because we’re still 2 months out people.
Alright fine. These are the good things going on in my life:
1. Ethan’s Grandpa got me a lunch date with the head of an organization I am dying to work for. It’s my dream job in my county doing exactly what I want to do that would involve me being in court everyday. I love being in court. I love the adrenaline that comes with it. Sometimes before trials I get so nervous I have to pop a xanax – but I love that. Go big or go home. If you’re not scared shitless occasionally you’re doing life wrong.
2. It’s football season. Which I mean need I say more? Nebraska is playing UCLA tomorrow which should be really fun. Well unless we lose. Then it’s not so fun.
That’s all I got people. 2 things to be grateful for today.
GatorGirl September 7, 2012, 7:04 pm
Love your political rant. I try to keep politics out of my Facebook- and I think all your points are very valid.
HmC September 7, 2012, 7:30 pm
Totally agree with everything you said about politics. Watching Obama’s speech at the DNC last night, and seeing people cry over platitudes that were basically just pretty prose delivered by a smart man, I too contemplated how much I hate people. The whole thing is like a soap opera for idiots.
Note, political issues are great… interesting, when you are informed. But actual politics, namely politicians themselves… barf. On all sides.
HmC September 7, 2012, 7:35 pm
And just to clarify, when I call it a soap opera for idiots, I don’t mean that everyone that’s into it is an idiot. I mean that politics, ie. political speeches, political commentary, is meant to appeal to a very low denominator. That’s what I don’t like about it. Political issues are actually extremely important, and when they are handled in an emotional way rather than empirically, it makes me angry and depressed.
iwannatalktosampson September 7, 2012, 7:42 pm
YES!
“Political issues are actually extremely important, and when they are handled in an emotional way rather than empirically, it makes me angry and depressed.”
This is completely how I feel. When it’s fighting back and forth I just shake my head and think about how that time and energy should have been used to find solutions. Brainstorm ideas. I know it sounds outlandish – but maybe if both sides spent that time actually thinking of solutions instead of fighting there might be a way to make both sides happy.
Wendy September 7, 2012, 7:44 pm
I’m an Obama fan, though I’m not as rabid as I was four years ago, and even I think all the crying over him and the gushing and everything is pretty ridiculous.
Wendy September 7, 2012, 7:26 pm
Ok, so the way you feel about politics, which is totally valid, is how I feel about football. And thank God I am not married to a football fan because the same impatience you have for politics and annoyance you feel for having it rammed down your throat is how I feel about football in this society. And really, the two aren’t THAT different. They’re both theater. They’re both high drama. They’re both entertainment, basically, with real world effects that are important to many people (and not so important to others). Anyway, maybe thinking about it like that will help you appreciate why people get so wrapped up in it and so eagerly eat the bullshit that they’re spoon-fed. It’s the same reason you get so wrapped up in football. It’s a passion. It just isn’t YOUR passion.
iwannatalktosampson September 7, 2012, 7:40 pm
Sorry I should have made this clear – this was not a rant about the site at all. Most of the issues that are important to you are important to me. But it’s more people on facebook that drive me CARAZY.
And I get it – the entertainment value of it all – but I guess it’s just so personal why a person believes what they believe that I hate that it’s turned into this crazy soap opera. And this democrats vs. republicans. And women vs. men. And purple people eaters vs. big bird. I don’t think it is healthy for our country as citizens – as actual people instead of members of one party or the other. Why can’t we come together and think about what’s good for us as a country? What can we all do for equality? What is the best solution for saving the economy? Instead of having republican articles that discuss the hypocrisy of Michelle Obama not getting chastised for wearing a $988 dollar blazer like Ann Romney did when she wore a $1,000 suit. Is that what our nation needs to care about? Or when my MIL called me yesterday to complain about Michelle Obama having BBQ flown in our air force one and how much it cost taxpayers. Like why do I care? She isn’t the first first lady to do it and she won’t be the last.
I just think it affects people’s lives in such a meaningful way – no one is ever going to sway another person’s opinions. Well unless they do. But mostly I just hate the sensationalism of it all. But I guess I hate watching the news when it’s not politican season too. Like when I hear this on the news “up next we’re going to tell you about the woman that was mauled by a bear in YOUR backyard” – and then it’s a story about a woman who tripped over a log that a bear tipped over in someone’s backyard – in the middle of the night – when there were no people around.
JK September 7, 2012, 7:45 pm
If it makes you feel any better all that politics crap goes on all over the world. I just don´t get it. If you want to discuss/debate measures that are taken (and you actually have a clue) fine! I´m all for it. Just don´t make it personal.
Wendy September 7, 2012, 7:42 pm
Oh, I didn’t think you were referring to this site at all. I was just trying to give an analogy that might help explain people’s rabidness about politics.
iwannatalktosampson September 7, 2012, 7:52 pm
Ha that actually was a really good analogy. And I am slightly less annoyed thinking of it as someone’s entertainment value. But it’s pretty high stakes emotionally. I mean if your person doesn’t get voted in you have to wait 4 years for a shot at redemption. Well unless you consider your local mayor’s the regular season. And then the senate and house of representatives like the playoffs. And then the presidency the Superbowl.
I smell a fantasy politics game in the making.
MELH September 7, 2012, 10:12 pm
There already is one! My cousin, like years ago, told us at a dinner that she was playing “fantasy congress”… You like drafted house members and they got points for different things, like getting a bill passed. Personally, I prefer fantasy football!
HmC September 8, 2012, 1:44 am
You’ve never played fantasy SCOTUS?!
I don’t play, I’m not quite THAT much of a law nerd.
katie September 8, 2012, 3:44 pm
wendy- i feel the same way about football!! thank you!! i always feel like im in the minority everywhere. haha
painted_lady September 9, 2012, 12:08 am
You’re not! I’m actually considering blocking some people from my feed till football season’s over.
I went to Texas A&M, and anytime I get shit about anything to do with football, I’m always like, “But I wasn’t on the football team.”
Lindsay September 7, 2012, 7:38 pm
I am excited about:
–Temps dropping. I love fall and winter (and hate summer), so it’s a good sign for me!
–One month before I will finally be done with grad school applications.
–I, for one, do enjoy politics. Specifically, I have major crushes on both the Obamas, Joe Biden, John Kerry, the Clintons, Rahm Emanuel … and the list could go on. So, watching the convention was the best thing ever to me.
Rachel September 7, 2012, 8:41 pm
Happy birthday all you September babies!
I’m excited about football season. Yeah, me too. Woo football! And I’m excited that my Cowboys beat the Giants 🙂
I can hear OU’s band playing at the field across the street. It’s pretty neat. I assume there must be some sort of football eve going on.
There’s a cold front coming through and it’s finally going to be nice this weekend!! Like NOT 100!! I will need to figure out something there is to do outside here so I can enjoy that.
iwannatalktosampson September 7, 2012, 8:54 pm
Although I have been bred to hate OU – it would be really cool to be so close to a team with so much tradition.
GatorGirl September 7, 2012, 9:18 pm
My bf from college is a huge OU fan. So I secretly route for them. I’ve said it before, but we live ridiculously close to UFs stadium. There is a chick on their matching band who lives in our complex and practices her trumpet in our parking lot. While it is cool- it gets annoying so fast. Living in town on an SEC game day is an awesome experience though.
GatorGirl September 7, 2012, 9:19 pm
And by bf I meant best friend…
iwannatalktosampson September 7, 2012, 9:28 pm
Yeah I actually hate very few teams. The only ones I really, really don’t like are: USC, Ohio State, and Texas. All other ones I can secretly root for. Like since we used to be in the Big 12 I cheer for them when they play any other conferences. And then I cheer for a few other teams just because I have friends that are fans. Like I have this whole weird hierarchy in my head of how I pick who to cheer for while I’m watching games. And if I really feel the same about two teams playing I just default to cheering for the underdog.
But I love the tradition of it all. I would love it if I could afford to go to more husker away games or really just go to more stadiums in general. I would love to go to an Alabama/LSU game sometime.
GatorGirl September 7, 2012, 10:58 pm
Hey LSU plays the Gators first weekend in Oct. Ive got a couch you can crash on if you want to treck to the swamp!
But yes, tradition is what sets college apart from
Nfl. Don’t get me wrong- I freaking love the shit out of the nfl- but college is just special.
Christy September 8, 2012, 10:36 am
Yes. I was in Alabama for Iron Bowl 2010, and it was AWESOME. I thought Baltimore was bad, but it has NOTHING on Alabama as a whole.
MELH September 7, 2012, 10:15 pm
For a minute I was like hell yea OU! (Ohio university)…..then I realized you meant Oklahoma….but hey my little school beat Penn State last week!
Rachel September 7, 2012, 11:04 pm
Congratulations. I’m not too bitter about that loss, since we’re rebuilding on like every front. Should be an interesting season.
qm September 7, 2012, 10:25 pm
Just wait for pre-football morning! It’s going to be crazy. I’m ready to have a good, sound win under our belt. Also, this cold front is the greatest. I just walked in to my apartment feeling like I needed to get a jacket.
(PS It was great to meet you today!)
Rachel September 7, 2012, 11:04 pm
It was great to meet you too!
And I am freaking LOVING how cool it is outside right now.
buttoned September 7, 2012, 8:02 pm
My gosh, you’d don’t know how great timing this open thread is! I’ve been a negative nanner all week, and my dad was just telling me how I need to snap out of my negative thoughts.
-I get to go to Philadelphia for the first time next month for a nutrition conference and expo and will get to network!
-I’m watching Seinfeld right now and just ate a salted caramel cupcake.
-I get to go to tacky prom next weekend. Throwback, y’all!
-My family is very supportive and helpful with my depressive attitude.
-I felt like I was in a Usher music video as I dodged hot rain drops and swiveled in my shorts in the rain.
-I start my new job next weekend, and my school is playing LSU the weekend after! We get to fight fans! Yay! 😀
Red_Lady September 7, 2012, 9:43 pm
Things I am feeling positive about this week:
*All of my students have good grades, a week into school!
*I bought a sweet snowboard off of craigslist today, and am now looking forward to winter
*I get to hang out w/ a friend tomorrow that I haven’t seen in a while
*Aaron Rodgers is going to do soooo much better than Romo did on Thursday
thewriteway September 7, 2012, 9:46 pm
My positivity list:
-I finally get to start saving up for my first car
-I used my hockey skates for the first time tonight and will be learning how to skate better and how to play hockey
-I’m going away this weekend and some of next week. Yay for a much-needed vacation from work!
Christy September 8, 2012, 10:38 am
Are you taking lessons? My gf wants to learn how to skate and play hockey (to fuel her obsession). I can’t stand being worse at a sport, so I’ll be learning too. How should we go about doing that? Did you buy the skates right away? (Also, I’ve been on an ice rink 2 times ever, and she’s been 1 time ever.)
GatorGirl September 8, 2012, 7:31 pm
Go to a skating rink on a date night and just rent skates. It’s fun and pretty cheap. I’ve skated for 20+ years and love it. I would rent skates before buying though.
katie September 8, 2012, 9:22 pm
i would rent before buying as well. there are tons of different kinds and you will hopefully be able to do some sort of try-before-you-buy situations before committing to a certain size/skate.
it’s just one of those things you gotta practice! you’ll suck at first, but everyone does, so just keep at it and soon it’ll be no different then walking.
MELH September 7, 2012, 10:21 pm
Good thread, Wendy. When I am still hating my job, its helpful to remember the things I do feel positive about.
1. My husband and I celebrated our one year anniversary 2 weeks ago! I can’t believe a year already went by!
2. Football season! I love it! I joined a fantasy league with my husband, and I just know I am going to kick his ass this year!
3. This last weekend reminded me I have the best friends in the world and my husband and I are lucky to have so many people we can share so many good things with.
4. I am considering branching out from law and possibly trying to find a job as a legal reporter. I figure that would be a great job for me, with my journalism school, my law degree, and my love of writing. I am applying to a job in Boston. I would love to get it, then I wouldn’t have to defend my love of the Patriots all the time!
LadyinPurpleNotRed September 7, 2012, 10:26 pm
Go Pats!!!
Lindsay September 7, 2012, 11:50 pm
I work for a legal news website. We’ve been hiring nonstop since I started a year ago. We’re based in New York but have people working remotely from various states. They seem really into people with law degrees, though we don’t have many so far, so you sound like a shoo-in. Let me know if you want any info or anything…
MELH September 8, 2012, 9:42 am
That would be great! I would love some information on that!
Lindsay September 8, 2012, 12:09 pm
Awesome. If you want, you could email me at lindsaylu11@mail.com (my crappy email address, to avoid splashing my real one around on DW.) and I can link you to the job posting and give you the HR lady’s email, etc.
MELH September 8, 2012, 6:16 pm
I sent you an email! Thanks so much, you’re awesome!
qm September 7, 2012, 10:38 pm
I’ve been having a generally bad week, but this is a good reminder to look at the positives.
1) The low is 58 tonight, after a week in the 100s. It is FANTASTIC.
2) The grad students and research associate in my temp lab all helped me figure out how to do simple differential equations and linear algebra yesterday. After I actually learned, my quantum chemistry homework was super easy.
3) My temp lab advisor brought in cookies yesterday.
4) My birthday is in a week!
5) I drank enough wine while grading my gen chem lab’s papers that they didn’t seem so bad, especially for their first lab ever.
6) First home game of the season is tomorrow! Boomer Sooner!
7) I had gelato today after craving it for a week; it was delicious.
I don’t know whether this is positive or not, but I’ve been thinking about getting a tablet so I don’t have to bring my super heavy and surprisingly fragile laptop all over the place. If anyone has any recommendations, I’d love to hear them! I don’t want an iPad, as I’d like it to be compatible with my PC. Mostly I want it for internet surfing and documents.
GatorGirl September 7, 2012, 11:18 pm
So I know you said you don’t want an iPad- but I just have to advocate for them for one sec. I am a PC girl all the way but I love bejesus out of my iPad. I just upload things to my google docs and revise things from the iPad that way. It’s great for other uses like Skype and FaceTime. You could probably argue I drank the Apple water or something but I love my iPad.
iwannatalktosampson September 7, 2012, 11:26 pm
Seconded. My ipad has changed my life and I only had pc’s before getting it.
qm September 7, 2012, 11:36 pm
Don’t tell me these things when iPads are so expensive! I wanted my convenient compatibility excuse, haha. Is it really not an issue? One of my friends in med school was saying how he wished he had an iPad rather than a Google tablet because the iPad had better apps for med school. I wonder if that’s true for sciences in general.
GatorGirl September 7, 2012, 11:54 pm
It’s true that iPads cost a ton but I think it’s worth it. I have a friend Ina science related field (no clue what it is) and she loves hers and a friend in dental school
Who loves hers. So yeah. iPad all the way.
painted_lady September 8, 2012, 1:11 pm
I love my iPad. And no, mine syncs with my work PC and my boyfriend’s PC perfectly. It’s the only computer I own.
Also, is your birthday the 14th? Mine, too!
amers5 September 9, 2012, 11:04 pm
I also LOVE my iPad! I’ve had no compatibility issue at all. Highly recommended!
chicotia September 7, 2012, 10:48 pm
Wendy I love how much you love karaoke. I also prefer even numbers ages and have always told people that. Funny to hear someone else say that too.
This week I am feeling positive about my job. I started 4 weeks ago and I am feeling a lot more confident in what I am doing and able to work much more independently than last week.
quixoticbeatnik September 7, 2012, 11:22 pm
I’m not sure if I have a whole lot to be positive about, but let’s see….
1) I start my new internship on Monday! Hooray! I really hope that I like it and that it will be a good experience for me.
2) I love my friends.
3) I won a happy hour party at a place nearby, which I’m hosting next week, so I guess that will be fun. Except for the fact that my friend invited 40 people on facebook to the party – which just seems really excessive to me. (I’m still annoyed by that, a bit)
Hmm, I don’t know. Life is not that great right now. Once I start the internship it might be better because I won’t have so much free time. It was really driving me crazy, not having much to do during the day when everyone else is busy. I get lonely easily, which makes me depressed easily….which is not good, needless to say. But hopefully things will be much better! And maybe I’ll try to make more friends in my area as well. Who knows – we shall see.
Happy birthday, Wendy!
Moneypenny September 8, 2012, 12:05 am
This is a great topic!
Ok here I go…:
-Tomorrow I’m going to my cousin’s baby shower in Napa. I’m excited to see her (I see her maybe 2x a year), as well as seeing my baby nephew! He is three months old!!!
-I went grocery shopping earlier this week and spent more than I thought I would. But the upside is, I realized I have enough food to make meals for at least a couple of weeks. (I also don’t eat very complicated so it works out.)
-I’m going to a movie with my dude in an hour.
-The weather has been amazingly nice. Not hot, not cold. Just right.
-I’m excited to get back into a workout routine. I sort of fell in a rut in the last couple of weeks, and now I’m excited to go to spin class tomorrow morning and probably sunday morning too. Yay!
-My birthday is in less than a month!!!
-In a month (plus a few days) I’m going to Chicago!!! My first full week off work in probably 4 years.
And happy birthday to all of the September babies!!
That's_Bananas September 8, 2012, 7:11 am
This post couldn’t have come at a better time. Thanks, Wendy! Yesterday was one of those days during which I cried for no reason all day long. So!
1. I’m happy it’s a new day! I know that’s cheesy.
2. My boyfriend and I are spending the day in Philly, which I haven’t done since I moved out of Center City two months ago. We’re going to visit my cousin/BFF and her family, and go up in the Zooballoon if it stops raining!
3. If it does rain, we’ll go see an IMAX at the Franklin.
4. I get to see my best friend from college when we are back in Richmond for a wedding next weekend 🙂
5. It’s going to be fall! I’m so excited for pumpkin everything! This includes lattes, beer and real pumpkins!
6. My boyfriend’s birthday is next Thursday and I can’t wait to surprise him with tickets to see Bela Fleck.
7. I’m finally down to the last few episodes of Felicity, and I actually don’t want her to pick either Ben or Noel!
Thanks for cheering me up, Wendy!
Rachel September 8, 2012, 10:34 am
Ooh, I saw Bela Fleck and the Flecktones earlier this year. They were SO good!
That's_Bananas September 8, 2012, 11:25 am
Oh, yay! He is playing with all sorts of banjo extraordinaires at one of my favorite venues, so I can’t wait!
painted_lady September 8, 2012, 12:47 pm
Happy birthday, Wendy!
painted_lady September 8, 2012, 1:05 pm
Happy birthday to all the September babies! I didn’t realize there were so many of us!
– I turn 30 on Friday!
– School is going really well, even middle school theatre, which I was dreading all summer. I’m in a far more positive environment this year than I was last year.
– Thyroid meds seem to be kicking in finally, and I’ve lost 8 pounds after spending the entire summer running and swimming.
– I’m almost ready for my first 5k.
– Walter and I celebrated 2 years on Thursday. It was a little lame because we’re both broke, but it was still nice.
– Walter seems to be getting a little more used to the school and work schedule…gradually at least. I understand he’s not used to it, but I was starting to lose patience with his constant complaints about how tired he is when I work similar hours and still go to the gym.. He woke me up after I fell asleep on the couch last night to ask me if I would take the dog out because he was too tired (woke me up! Because he was too tired!). Then this morning he decided to wake himself up before noon pick up the early shift at work because he needs the money. So, you know, baby steps.
painted_lady September 8, 2012, 1:06 pm
Oh, too be clear, those 8 pounds were in roughly the last week or so.
Trixy Minx September 9, 2012, 12:04 am
That’s awesome! At least now it will be easier because you already have the eating right and gym habits down. 🙂
painted_lady September 9, 2012, 1:37 am
Most definitely!
bethany September 8, 2012, 1:42 pm
I’m so happy to own my own home! It’s a lot of work, but every day I’m thankful that we decided to go ahead and buy!
katie September 8, 2012, 3:43 pm
i am happy that planned parenthood is here. i had a birth control issue -my refills ran out and my former doctor has switch practices, so she legally cant give me anything until she “establishes care” with me at her new practice. it doesnt matter ive seen her since i was 17.. new practice, its like a slate is wiped clean. -so anyway, i need my pill tomorrow and planned parenthood was able to see me today and give me a whole years worth of refills! ive never used their services for anything, but i am happy that they are here.
AliceInDairyLand September 8, 2012, 4:54 pm
Me and Planned Parenthood are BFFs. They are miracle workers when your OB/GYN office sucks and can’t accommodate you. They have saved me from many a painful yeast-infection when my usual doctor was booked.
katie September 8, 2012, 7:43 pm
Good! I was honestly kind of nervous. I didn’t want like protesters yelling at me to not kill my unborn baby, or the doctors would get all judge-y with me for some reason… I dunno I have heard scary stories. So I was very happy it was an easy visit. They did ask me questions- has your partner forced you to have sex in the last year, and does your partner refuse to wear condoms if you ask them to- that was unusual for me. An they gave me a little pamphlet about healthy relationships. But other then that it was totally normal!
painted_lady September 8, 2012, 9:42 pm
That blows about your doctor. What does that mean, “establishes care?” Just that you have to go see her? In CO, I assume?
But PP is the best – I got such great care from them when I was uninsured and broke.
katie September 8, 2012, 9:55 pm
its a legal thing- “establishing care” means that the doctor has seen you and, i assume, checked you out and so they know what they are talking about when they prescribe you something… just like you cant just call a random doctor and ask them for pills- they have to see you first. so apparently because my doctor has a new practice, she has to re-establish care with all of her patients. i dont get that part. like, ive literally gone to her since i was 17! she felt really bad… and then she told me i should find a new gyno here in chicago, which made me sad. i dont want a new gyno!!! lol
painted_lady September 8, 2012, 11:53 pm
Ahhh okay. Yeah, that makes no sense.
But yeah, you should find a new gyno. And honestly, I’ve gone to four since I was 21…as long as it’s a lady up in my ladybits, there’s not much difference. Well, there was one with man-hands, and that got a little…crowded…
theattack September 9, 2012, 1:27 pm
I wish I could get in touch with my Planned Parenthood. My refills ran out a month ago, and I still can’t get in touch with anyone. I can’t afford to go to the gynecologist really, and Planned Parenthood won’t take my insurance anyway. I’m in a pretty sucky situation at the moment in that I finally got to move in with my formerly long distance fiance, and because I can’t afford a copay / can’t get in touch with someone who could help me out, we don’t get to celebrate by consummating our love… haha And now I’m starting to feel the crazy coming out because my BC was keeping me mentally stable.
katie September 9, 2012, 2:24 pm
cant you still use them? i mean, isn’t that the point really- for women who cant afford to go to a full price/regular/whatever you wanna call it gyno? and doesnt PP go off of a sliding scale/pay what you can afford kind of system if you need it?
maybe just call them and find out! you dont have to use your insurance..
theattack September 9, 2012, 5:15 pm
That’s the problem though. I can’t get in touch with them, and I’ve tried almost every business day for weeks! I’ve waited on the phone for up to half an hour with no one picking up. It’s ridiculous. I would just walk in and see if I could make an appointment, but I’ll have to drive about an hour to get there.
But what sucks is that Tennessee Planned Parenthoods can’t offer sliding scale payments anymore. The funding that allowed them to do that was revoked last summer, and all of it was redirected to county health departments where there is a waiting period of up to six months for a gynecologist appointment in many cities. I feel very fortunate in these times that I even have insurance. So many women have had all of their opportunities to be healthy pulled out from under them.
GatorGirl September 9, 2012, 9:36 pm
In my experience Planned Parenthood sucks. Just invest in a nice box (or two) of condoms until the wedding. (you’re under 275 days too right?)
Rachel September 10, 2012, 12:33 am
I’ve had only good experiences with PP, but I think YMMV depending on the location.
*HmC* September 9, 2012, 11:52 pm
Wow that’s crazy, and sad, though of course I believe it. Here in San Diego, there’s a Planned Parenthood on pretty much every corner (ok not quite, but they are ALL OVER and very clearly marked, which was different than even Los Angeles where they are more on the QT), sliding scale treatments so you can get exams/bc for free if you need to, and the longest I’ve had to wait for an appointment was a week… and I could have gone same day if I had been willing to drive just 20 or so minutes further. I think it’s all of the colleges in the area that make PP’s so relevant and necessary here or something… and the beach areas are super liberal as far as I understand, so I’m sure that helps. I’m so grateful!
jlyfsh September 9, 2012, 2:30 pm
your insurance doesn’t cover well woman visits either? it sucks. i would physically go to the PP and talk to them. i hate when i can’t get someone to call me back!!
theattack September 9, 2012, 5:17 pm
I wish I could, but they’re about an hour away from me. 🙁 I can’t really afford to drive down there to make an appointment and then drive back for the appointment later. I’m hoping maybe I can find a regular gynecologist in my new town and get into them soon.
AliceInDairyLand September 8, 2012, 4:52 pm
Positives!
I had a fantastic last weekend before going to school. Canoeing on the WI River, making wine, and generally relaxing. And this week wasn’t too bad/intimidating as far as school goes either. We are in lab a lot less so we will have a lot more time to study. And even though we start at 7:45am every day, we get out earlier so I end up being more productive rather than just sleeping in.
This week I didn’t do anything productive but I did do the following:
Drank 3 out of the last 5 nights
Watched The Hunter… Germs, Guns, and Steel… and The Girl Who Played with Fire on Netflix
Canned grape juice that tastes more like agua fresca
Strained my liquor infusions
Took my sister out for a birthday lunch
Made apple cider with a cider press
Snuggled my cats
All good things! I am putting off studying but I think it’s time to actually get on that now.
SweetsAndBeats September 8, 2012, 5:00 pm
I am positive because:
1) I made the first sale of my team at my new job.
2) I finally have some money in the bank.
3) My work schedule will finally be calming down soon so that I can attend more 12 Step meetings.
4) I can finally get my dogs groomed.
5) I will soon be able to have turquoise hair.
6) Linguistics Major is sitting right next to me while Tumbling… Swoon
7) Idk, I just like the number 7.
Alena September 8, 2012, 8:27 pm
– I built TWO cat condo things in the past few days. They’re roughly four and a half feet tall, and they’re awesome. And, believe it or not (I certainly was shocked), ALL the cats love them. Power tools are awesome.
-My boyfriend moves back from England in less than a month!
-My birthday is next weekend!
-I’m finally getting somewhere narrowing down my grad school options, and it feels good.
jlyfsh September 8, 2012, 10:15 pm
where are you looking at for grad school?
Alena September 9, 2012, 3:45 pm
Right now… a lot of places yet. I’ve been more doing a process of ruling things out, rather than picking and choosing at this stage. I’m really interested in studying sharks, skates, and rays specifically, possibly turtles. I’m looking at places including Florida State University, possibly NOVA Southeastern University, University of Miami, University of South Carolina, Texas A&M University, and potentially a couple in California, but I’m not so sure about those.
I know you’ve been involved in marine biology, do you have any suggestions for anything regarding grad school? (Avoid places that do one thing, look for places that do some other things, good ways to make good impressions, etc.) About the only advice I’ve gotten from people so far is to volunteer/try to do research that relates, and I’m trying to get some, but it’s not so simple, when I’m living in Michigan, and I have to submit applications in the next 2-3 months.
jlyfsh September 9, 2012, 4:09 pm
if you went to univ of south carolina you’d do your field work where i work! 🙂
i would highly recommend univ of miami and texas a&m, i know people who have been to both and they love it. those schools are great for both turtles or sharks. fsu is also a great choice. i would recommend sending the major professor an email and reaching out to them, let them know you want to apply and what you’re interested in studying. look through the list of professors and their research and get an idea of what you might be interested in doing. they appreciate you actually doing some research before contacting them 🙂 visit if at all possible. marine science is very competitive, but often it’s the students who show interest who get spots. if you have any other questions you can email me at aeknow@gmail.com. i have a very soft spot for turtles, i worked with them for about 8 years, so i would highly recommend going that route 🙂
jlyfsh September 9, 2012, 10:31 pm
both people i know did turtle work at miami and tamu. they both recommend it highly.
i will say that it’s a good idea to apply to at least two unless you’ve been assured by the major professor that you’re getting in. and if you don’t for some reason get in anywhere (which i think is highly unlikely) i would suggest finding a few internships for the next year. if you get to that point let me know and i can also suggest some good places to work pretty much anywhere from texas up to virginia. hopefully though you won’t need them 🙂
Classic September 8, 2012, 9:03 pm
I had a birthday, too! I think I am winning because I have had the most of them. Happy birthday, dear Wendy! OK, getting back on my Versa Climber…
Caris September 9, 2012, 8:42 am
Happy (belated) Birthday Wendy! 😀
And Happy Birthday to the rest of you who had birthdays this week(end).
Jillie Z September 9, 2012, 2:33 pm
Things i’m happy about – birthday weekends! Happy Birthday Wendy! And my niece turned ONE today… she made my year so special and it’s amazing to see her turn into this sweet little girl with such a fun personality. I also started jogging again – ok, so i’ve only jogged for 3 days, but hey, you gotta start somewhere and now that Chicago feels like fall it’s so refreshing. Also, i’ve been walking at lunch, and it makes me fall in love with my iphone all over again. I use mapmyride to track my mileage, i listen to pandora’s workout tunes, and i read Dear Wendy comments as i’m walking =) I’m listening to Gone Girl on audio book (no spoilers please!!), which is effing intense, and makes me so thankful i’m not worried about my husband potentially wanting to murder me! lol
And football started today – woohoo! Go Colts! Gives me so much cuddle time on the couch with my husband, the kitties and my crochet projects.
Addie Pray September 10, 2012, 8:46 am
Can we hit up the Chicago Diner soon??!