I have forgotten to blog recently! I'm sorry! :) I have had quite a bit on my plate lately (both literally and figuratively). I'm in MN right now--Martin and I drove back on what was possibly the WORST weekend--winter storms, icy Colorado mountains and holiday traffic. We had a nice family Christmas--quiet, but cozy.
Today, the fam is heading over to help my brother (the goat farmer) with some chores. I guess he has some ply-wood to hang, wood to chop and barns to insulate. Lots of fun! :) The only problem is that I spent an hour and a half shoveling off the patio yesterday for our bratwurst BBQ last night, and my muscles are sore. It was good exercise, but I don't think I will be chopping or throwing wood today!
I will get back to blogging. I will. I just like to take a little vacation (OK, like, the whole month).
Merry Christmas everyone!
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Monday, December 8, 2008
Coolest Neclace
I found this necklace today online (click Etsy). I didn't buy it, but I LOVE it! If anyone ever sees little matroyshka charms/beads let me know!
NOTE: I apologize for my last blog entry...I know it grossed out a few people, but I did warn you! :)
Friday, December 5, 2008
Musings from a coffee shop.
I am sitting in a coffee shop working on some lesson plans for work. My internet connection has been really inconsistent at Edna's (I am not paying for the service, so I guess I can't complain). Since I have been here, there have been two people having a very loud, opinionated conversation next to me. People of the world: the f-word is NOT THE BEST ADJECTIVE YOU CAN THINK OF!! Tap into your higher-level vocabulary and dazzle us with something else. Please.
I have thought about starting a collection of short stories about my time with Edna. I am not much of a creative writer, but I have lots of stories to tell! It seems like there is something new everyday! To give you a short preview (if you are easily grossed out, do not continue--really):
One night, I came home late from work, grabbed my toothbrush and headed to the bathroom to get ready for bed. Edna's teeth were soaking in a small, plastic, pink box next to the sink. The lid was open, which kind of grosses me out, but I was even more horrified when I saw what was inside the box crawling around on the teeth! I shooed the giant, nasty cockroack out of the box, but didn't know what to do next! I mean, what could I do? I was freaking out! I went to bed and set my alarm early so I could get up and tell her to clean them extra well before putting them in. I woke up too late. The teeth were in her mouth. What would you do? I didn't think it would be appropriate to say something about it, and to this day, I close the box every night after she goes to bed. It isn't like I can ever mention this instance to her or hint that she should close the box. The lesson I have learned from this is: when I have to soak my teeth some day, I will ALWAYS close the lid.
*Since this instance, we had a guy come and spray a strong repellent around the house which has GREATLY reduced the number of roaches and other insects inside the house. They still get in, but only one or two a night instead of a dozen or more. I sleep much better now.
I have thought about starting a collection of short stories about my time with Edna. I am not much of a creative writer, but I have lots of stories to tell! It seems like there is something new everyday! To give you a short preview (if you are easily grossed out, do not continue--really):
One night, I came home late from work, grabbed my toothbrush and headed to the bathroom to get ready for bed. Edna's teeth were soaking in a small, plastic, pink box next to the sink. The lid was open, which kind of grosses me out, but I was even more horrified when I saw what was inside the box crawling around on the teeth! I shooed the giant, nasty cockroack out of the box, but didn't know what to do next! I mean, what could I do? I was freaking out! I went to bed and set my alarm early so I could get up and tell her to clean them extra well before putting them in. I woke up too late. The teeth were in her mouth. What would you do? I didn't think it would be appropriate to say something about it, and to this day, I close the box every night after she goes to bed. It isn't like I can ever mention this instance to her or hint that she should close the box. The lesson I have learned from this is: when I have to soak my teeth some day, I will ALWAYS close the lid.
*Since this instance, we had a guy come and spray a strong repellent around the house which has GREATLY reduced the number of roaches and other insects inside the house. They still get in, but only one or two a night instead of a dozen or more. I sleep much better now.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Thankful.
Thanksgiving came and went in one of those "boy, that was fast" ways, didn't it?
It was such a good day, even though we couldn't make it to MN for the holiday. Martin's boss invited us to join her and her family in going to ANOTHER family's Thanksgiving. I guess this family traditionally takes in strangers (me, Martin, and two other international students from Martin's college) for the big meal. They were so welcoming and hospitable to invite us to share their house and holiday for the evening.
Wanting to contribute to the meal, Martin and I dipped a HUGE container of Thanksgiving strawberries in melted, 65% dark chocolate, and carefully balanced each berry on its hat to ensure perfect, smooth, fingerprint-free coating. After only 30 minutes, the chocolate was hard and the dessert was ready to go. It was a lot easier than it sounded before starting, and is a fail-proof way to make people like you! :) They were a tasty edition to the evening.
We didn't leave our host's house until midnight! We had so much fun sitting around the house, sipping wine and cider, eating pies and strawberries, and getting to know one another. The highlight for me was that there were a few girls around my age with whom I had things in common. I also really liked spunky uncle George, who is retired and watches DVDs everyday while he crochets.
To the family who invited us in, fed us really well, and welcomed us back next time, thanks!
It was such a good day, even though we couldn't make it to MN for the holiday. Martin's boss invited us to join her and her family in going to ANOTHER family's Thanksgiving. I guess this family traditionally takes in strangers (me, Martin, and two other international students from Martin's college) for the big meal. They were so welcoming and hospitable to invite us to share their house and holiday for the evening.
Wanting to contribute to the meal, Martin and I dipped a HUGE container of Thanksgiving strawberries in melted, 65% dark chocolate, and carefully balanced each berry on its hat to ensure perfect, smooth, fingerprint-free coating. After only 30 minutes, the chocolate was hard and the dessert was ready to go. It was a lot easier than it sounded before starting, and is a fail-proof way to make people like you! :) They were a tasty edition to the evening.
We didn't leave our host's house until midnight! We had so much fun sitting around the house, sipping wine and cider, eating pies and strawberries, and getting to know one another. The highlight for me was that there were a few girls around my age with whom I had things in common. I also really liked spunky uncle George, who is retired and watches DVDs everyday while he crochets.
To the family who invited us in, fed us really well, and welcomed us back next time, thanks!
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Funny Running Quote
"A genuine penguin, but in my dreams I'm Kenyan."
This really describes me! I am such a slow runner, but always wonder what it is like to be one of those really fast ones who finish in half the time I do! :)
This really describes me! I am such a slow runner, but always wonder what it is like to be one of those really fast ones who finish in half the time I do! :)
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Let me explain...
Now that I've started this new job, I have tried a few times to explain how it all works without success. Images are sometimes better.
Last night, as I waited for my students to finish their placement test, I snapped a few pictures of my non-traditional classroom. Here is what I see:
On the TV screen, you can see a small box in the upper left-hand corner. That is the image the students see on their TV. Here is my whiteboard (only about 6 feet away from the video camera):
BTW: I hate when kids are made to call me Miss Bonnie--I would prefer them to either call me just plain 'Bonnie' or to be really formal and address me by my family name.
Even though most of my teaching experience is with elementary students, I don't really do the cutesy teacherey things (like, baby talk, naming the paper bear mascot on the board, etc.). I generally feel that kids don't want to be patronized and respond just as well, if not better, to normal speech patterns and vocabulary. Just my opinion.
Finally, here is a close-up of the video camera that figures out all the details of how to make it all work:
Clarification: My students are Koreans in Korea. Their school is really close to where I used to live in Seoul.
Last night, as I waited for my students to finish their placement test, I snapped a few pictures of my non-traditional classroom. Here is what I see:
On the TV screen, you can see a small box in the upper left-hand corner. That is the image the students see on their TV. Here is my whiteboard (only about 6 feet away from the video camera):
BTW: I hate when kids are made to call me Miss Bonnie--I would prefer them to either call me just plain 'Bonnie' or to be really formal and address me by my family name.
Even though most of my teaching experience is with elementary students, I don't really do the cutesy teacherey things (like, baby talk, naming the paper bear mascot on the board, etc.). I generally feel that kids don't want to be patronized and respond just as well, if not better, to normal speech patterns and vocabulary. Just my opinion.
Finally, here is a close-up of the video camera that figures out all the details of how to make it all work:
Clarification: My students are Koreans in Korea. Their school is really close to where I used to live in Seoul.
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Where are the firecrackers?
This is so frustrating! I can hear the firecrackers outside my window, but I can't SEE THEM!! Aahh! I LOVE fireworks, but HATE when I have to listen to them and can't watch! Grand finale--NO WAY!!--these must be awesome! Now that I am thinking about it, this same thing happened last Sunday night...hmmmm...a pattern. I will have to investigate this matter.
I got called into work tonight--now, I will be teaching four nights a week instead of two! And, the boss called me into his office about "an important issue" tonight. He offered me a full time job starting in a month or two! I know, it sounds funny, but thisbusiness school just started about a month ago, and they keep adding more classes. Soon, I will be taking over regular classes, but not until after Christmas, I think.
This is very good news! I really like the job so far, and don't mind the evening hours. I am teaching math, but am figuring out that it isn't as difficult as I have always made it out to be (maybe I inherited some of my mom's mad math skillz after all).
P.S. I got my camera back from Martin, so this week's posts will include a few more visuals. I know you're excited! :)
I got called into work tonight--now, I will be teaching four nights a week instead of two! And, the boss called me into his office about "an important issue" tonight. He offered me a full time job starting in a month or two! I know, it sounds funny, but this
This is very good news! I really like the job so far, and don't mind the evening hours. I am teaching math, but am figuring out that it isn't as difficult as I have always made it out to be (maybe I inherited some of my mom's mad math skillz after all).
P.S. I got my camera back from Martin, so this week's posts will include a few more visuals. I know you're excited! :)
Friday, November 21, 2008
one more foreign film
Tonight was the final night of the free foreign film festival in Fullerton (how's that for alliteration?). I have to say that the selections have been awesome and now I am going to rent the ones I missed out on!
We saw The Kite Runner (Afghanistan) tonight. Wow. What a story. I haven't read the book yet (I know, I know...I'm a little behind on my current lit titles), but the movie was really powerful. I don't want to say too much, but, again, this is a must see movie (there are some pretty tough parts in it--it is probably not for kids). Be prepared for some heart-wrenching moments.
By the way, does anyone have a copy of the book I could borrow?
OK. Here is the list of the films I didn't make it to:
Pauline and Paulette (Belgium)
La Vie en Rose (France)
The Way Home (South Korea)
Have you seen any of these titles? Are they hits or misses? I am sure that they are pretty good, but if anyone has any input, I would love to hear it!
We saw The Kite Runner (Afghanistan) tonight. Wow. What a story. I haven't read the book yet (I know, I know...I'm a little behind on my current lit titles), but the movie was really powerful. I don't want to say too much, but, again, this is a must see movie (there are some pretty tough parts in it--it is probably not for kids). Be prepared for some heart-wrenching moments.
By the way, does anyone have a copy of the book I could borrow?
OK. Here is the list of the films I didn't make it to:
Pauline and Paulette (Belgium)
La Vie en Rose (France)
The Way Home (South Korea)
Have you seen any of these titles? Are they hits or misses? I am sure that they are pretty good, but if anyone has any input, I would love to hear it!
Thursday, November 20, 2008
French Night at the Foreign Film Festival
My new city is pretty great. I never expected it to feel so non-city like. There are so many free community events going on all the time, and one of them was tonight.
Tonight was French night at a local community college's film festival. I only was able to stay for one of the movies shown, but I think I saw the best one! The movie is called Les Choristes (The Chorus in English).
I loved it! If you are a fan of foreign films--you MUST watch this one. Especially if you are a teacher, know a teacher or had a good teacher in school. The movie is about a school of boys with behavior problems and a teacher who works hard to reach them. The teacher begins a choir and helps transform the boys' lives. It is really endearing and the music is beautiful. It made me think of Mr. Holland's Opus in many ways (and who doesn't like that movie?). If you see it or have seen it, let me know what you think!
Yesterday, the festival featured a film from Spain. It was called Todo sobre mi madre (All About My Mother). It was a good movie, too, however, I am not sure I want to recommend it. This movie addresses a range of issues, like prostitution, transgendered individuals, drugs, unplanned pregnancy and death. It is kind of emotionally heavy.
Tonight was French night at a local community college's film festival. I only was able to stay for one of the movies shown, but I think I saw the best one! The movie is called Les Choristes (The Chorus in English).
I loved it! If you are a fan of foreign films--you MUST watch this one. Especially if you are a teacher, know a teacher or had a good teacher in school. The movie is about a school of boys with behavior problems and a teacher who works hard to reach them. The teacher begins a choir and helps transform the boys' lives. It is really endearing and the music is beautiful. It made me think of Mr. Holland's Opus in many ways (and who doesn't like that movie?). If you see it or have seen it, let me know what you think!
Yesterday, the festival featured a film from Spain. It was called Todo sobre mi madre (All About My Mother). It was a good movie, too, however, I am not sure I want to recommend it. This movie addresses a range of issues, like prostitution, transgendered individuals, drugs, unplanned pregnancy and death. It is kind of emotionally heavy.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Hip-hip-hooray!
I am starting to think that I need to set more big goals for myself. Why is it that we doubt what we can accomplish? What keeps us from pushing our own boundaries a little more?
I wasn't sure I could live in Korea for a year, but it had always been a goal of mine to live abroad, so I tried it. It wasn't so bad...in fact, it turned out to be a good experience. Now, I have set this goal to finish a marathon and I am finding that it really isn't a big deal. Sure it's challenging me physically and mentally, but it is really not too bad!
Today I conquered the Newport boardwalk not only once, but three times! The days I do my long runs (over 6-8 miles) are spent at the beach, but I've never run this far in my whole life! Ready to be blown away by the grand total? OK, here it is:
18 MILES!!! Woohoo!!! :)
It took me three and a half hours to complete my run, and I could hardly walk after I finished, but I did finish. My legs and feet are sore, but I now am realizing that this is a really positive experience for me. I am beginning to think about what things I want to do and see and experience:
1. finish the marathon in February
2. become fluent in Spanish (and, eventually, German)
3. purchase an around-the-world plane ticket
It is my goal to have lots and lots of stories to tell when I am Edna's age! :)
I wasn't sure I could live in Korea for a year, but it had always been a goal of mine to live abroad, so I tried it. It wasn't so bad...in fact, it turned out to be a good experience. Now, I have set this goal to finish a marathon and I am finding that it really isn't a big deal. Sure it's challenging me physically and mentally, but it is really not too bad!
Today I conquered the Newport boardwalk not only once, but three times! The days I do my long runs (over 6-8 miles) are spent at the beach, but I've never run this far in my whole life! Ready to be blown away by the grand total? OK, here it is:
18 MILES!!! Woohoo!!! :)
It took me three and a half hours to complete my run, and I could hardly walk after I finished, but I did finish. My legs and feet are sore, but I now am realizing that this is a really positive experience for me. I am beginning to think about what things I want to do and see and experience:
1. finish the marathon in February
2. become fluent in Spanish (and, eventually, German)
3. purchase an around-the-world plane ticket
It is my goal to have lots and lots of stories to tell when I am Edna's age! :)
Monday, November 17, 2008
Fractions
Tonight I start my new part-time job. I am going to teach math to 5th-6th graders in Korea over the internet.
(Math?! *gasp*)
I don't love math, so I am hoping that my teaching skills will kick in and help me explain fractions to these kids! Actually, I have some cool ideas planned in order to make it interesting.
Here is a little warm-up for myself:
1/2 of my day was uneventful
4/10 of the wildfires nearby have been contained
1/4 of the Canadian bacon pizza was eaten by me
5/12 of today was sunny with blue skies
1/8 of tomorrow will be spent running
1/4 of this hour was spent figuring out these stupid fractions and writing this teeny tiny post... (ha ha...I told you that math isn't my favorite subject!)
(Math?! *gasp*)
I don't love math, so I am hoping that my teaching skills will kick in and help me explain fractions to these kids! Actually, I have some cool ideas planned in order to make it interesting.
Here is a little warm-up for myself:
1/2 of my day was uneventful
4/10 of the wildfires nearby have been contained
1/4 of the Canadian bacon pizza was eaten by me
5/12 of today was sunny with blue skies
1/8 of tomorrow will be spent running
1/4 of this hour was spent figuring out these stupid fractions and writing this teeny tiny post... (ha ha...I told you that math isn't my favorite subject!)
Anthony
I snagged this idea from a friend's blog. I thought it was pretty random and funny...enjoy!
Here's what to do:
1. Put your iPod or other Mp3 player on shuffle.
2. For each question, press the next button to get your answer.
3. YOU MUST WRITE THAT SONG NAME DOWN NO MATTER HOW SILLY IT SOUNDS!
WHAT WOULD BEST DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONALITY? Meet Virginia (Train)
WHAT DO YOU LIKE IN A GUY/GIRL? Beautiful Mess (Jason Mraz)
WHAT IS YOUR LIFE'S PURPOSE? Your Heart is an Empty Room (Death Cab for Cutie)
WHAT IS YOUR MOTTO? Bring Em Back Alive (Audioslave) ha ha!
WHAT DO YOUR FRIENDS THINK OF YOU? Relax (Take it Easy) (Mika)
WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT VERY OFTEN? You and Me (Lifehouse)
WHAT IS 2+2? A Marshmallow World (Bing Crosby)
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR BEST FRIEND? Light Years Away (MoZella)
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE PERSON YOU LIKE? Blind (Lifehouse)
WHAT IS YOUR LIFE STORY? Beauty of Uncertainty (KT Tunstall) perfect!
WHAT DO YOUR PARENTS THINK OF YOU? Don’t Know Why (Norah Jones) awesome answer…just awesome
WHAT WILL YOU DANCE TO AT YOUR WEDDING? Vultures (John Mayer)
WHAT WILL THEY PLAY AT YOUR FUNERAL? Hey There Delilah (Plain White T’s)
WHAT IS YOUR HOBBY/INTEREST? London Bridge (Fergie)
WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST SECRET? The Truth (Caedman’s Call) Woah! what could that mean?
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR FRIENDS? Sweetest Thing (U2)
WHAT'S THE WORST THING THAT COULD HAPPEN? Free Falling (Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers)
HOW WILL YOU DIE? Coconut Skins (Damien Rice)
WHAT IS THE ONE THING YOU REGRET? I Can’t Tell You Why (The Eagles)
WHAT MAKES YOU LAUGH? Wake Up June (Willie Hereth)
WHAT MAKES YOU CRY? Rock Me Amadeus (Falco) so funny! an 80’s europop song!
WHAT SCARES YOU THE MOST? Summer Skin (Death Cab for Cutie)
DOES ANYONE LIKE YOU? I’m Scared (Duffy)
WHAT HURTS RIGHT NOW? Only the Truth (The Last Shadow Puppets) that is what came up—really! ☺
WHAT WILL YOU POST THIS AS? Anthony (Nickel Creek)
Here's what to do:
1. Put your iPod or other Mp3 player on shuffle.
2. For each question, press the next button to get your answer.
3. YOU MUST WRITE THAT SONG NAME DOWN NO MATTER HOW SILLY IT SOUNDS!
WHAT WOULD BEST DESCRIBE YOUR PERSONALITY? Meet Virginia (Train)
WHAT DO YOU LIKE IN A GUY/GIRL? Beautiful Mess (Jason Mraz)
WHAT IS YOUR LIFE'S PURPOSE? Your Heart is an Empty Room (Death Cab for Cutie)
WHAT IS YOUR MOTTO? Bring Em Back Alive (Audioslave) ha ha!
WHAT DO YOUR FRIENDS THINK OF YOU? Relax (Take it Easy) (Mika)
WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT VERY OFTEN? You and Me (Lifehouse)
WHAT IS 2+2? A Marshmallow World (Bing Crosby)
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR BEST FRIEND? Light Years Away (MoZella)
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF THE PERSON YOU LIKE? Blind (Lifehouse)
WHAT IS YOUR LIFE STORY? Beauty of Uncertainty (KT Tunstall) perfect!
WHAT DO YOUR PARENTS THINK OF YOU? Don’t Know Why (Norah Jones) awesome answer…just awesome
WHAT WILL YOU DANCE TO AT YOUR WEDDING? Vultures (John Mayer)
WHAT WILL THEY PLAY AT YOUR FUNERAL? Hey There Delilah (Plain White T’s)
WHAT IS YOUR HOBBY/INTEREST? London Bridge (Fergie)
WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST SECRET? The Truth (Caedman’s Call) Woah! what could that mean?
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF YOUR FRIENDS? Sweetest Thing (U2)
WHAT'S THE WORST THING THAT COULD HAPPEN? Free Falling (Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers)
HOW WILL YOU DIE? Coconut Skins (Damien Rice)
WHAT IS THE ONE THING YOU REGRET? I Can’t Tell You Why (The Eagles)
WHAT MAKES YOU LAUGH? Wake Up June (Willie Hereth)
WHAT MAKES YOU CRY? Rock Me Amadeus (Falco) so funny! an 80’s europop song!
WHAT SCARES YOU THE MOST? Summer Skin (Death Cab for Cutie)
DOES ANYONE LIKE YOU? I’m Scared (Duffy)
WHAT HURTS RIGHT NOW? Only the Truth (The Last Shadow Puppets) that is what came up—really! ☺
WHAT WILL YOU POST THIS AS? Anthony (Nickel Creek)
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Wildfires
Yesterday morning, I geared up for my 6.5 mile jog as the wind whipped around the yard. I got outside and was met with 85+ degree temperatures and strong winds. An hour and a half later, I got home and noticed the sky was kind of gray.
Martin called me and told me about some fires that had started up not too far away from where I live, but I didn't think it was a big deal. After a couple of hours, it turned out to be a VERY big deal! The Santa Ana winds were strong and fueled the fire all day and night. The fire jumped over the highways near where I live, and ash fell from the sky onto Edna's yard like snow (the only kind I predict we will get).
We didn't have to evacuate, but many around us did. Luckily, the winds shifted and headed away from us. Unfortunately, they destroyed many homes. So far, I haven't heard of any fatalities, though. The fires were/are just a few miles from here--it is really eery out.
Update Monday: The skies are blue again and the air is a little cleaner. The fire is still raging out of control, but it has headed in the opposite direction. I am posting some pictures Martin and I took Saturday afternoon.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Funny Image
Picture this:
A short 94-year-old lady wearing a long-sleeved, teal nightgown with small embroidered roses at the collar...her teeth are soaking in a cup on the kitchen counter...she's got a large can of Raid in one hand, and a big, nasty cockroach trying his best to get away before death showers down on him in the form of a smelly mist.
She chased the roach across the kitchen, folks! Right into the corner where he shriveled up and died!
I sat at the table laughing to myself at the image unfolding before my eyes...I hope I have as much gusto as she does at 94! Heck, I hope I have that much gusto at 70!
A short 94-year-old lady wearing a long-sleeved, teal nightgown with small embroidered roses at the collar...her teeth are soaking in a cup on the kitchen counter...she's got a large can of Raid in one hand, and a big, nasty cockroach trying his best to get away before death showers down on him in the form of a smelly mist.
She chased the roach across the kitchen, folks! Right into the corner where he shriveled up and died!
I sat at the table laughing to myself at the image unfolding before my eyes...I hope I have as much gusto as she does at 94! Heck, I hope I have that much gusto at 70!
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
"You have 'wholesome' written all over your face"
Really? Wholesome? What does that mean, exactly (young, naive, innocent...)?
I went in for an interview yesterday and met with a man and woman about an over-the-internet teaching position. We talked about the job, curriculum and students when the woman interrupted the interview and asked, "you're not from here, are you?" When I said, "no..., why?" she replied, "because you have 'wholesome' written all over your face!"
This isn't the first time someone has pegged me as an out-of-towner based on my appearance. I just assumed it was my down-home fashion ways, but apparently it shows on my face, too! :)
Snow? What's that?
Last week, I did a little more exploring and found an awesome park! Since lakes are limited in quantity, I definitely notice when I pass one. I also want to show my Minnesota readers what the weather is like here: hot, sunny, blue skies... The temperatures this weekend are supposed to be into the 90's. It doesn't feel like fall, but I don't mind the warmth.
Did I mention that I ran a 10K race two weeks ago? I set my personal record at 57 minutes and 55 seconds for the 6.2 mile run! Early in the race, I found a couple of people to pace myself with--a group of three women in some kind of running club, and a small woman running alone with the same shoes as I have. In the fifth mile, I passed every one of them and ran as hard as I could to the finish line. A friend of mine gave me some advice about training for a marathon, she said, "it is tough, but you will feel like you have accomplished something every day!" How true.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Surf City USA
I finally registered for my marathon! I don't know why I was waiting...maybe to see if I could really do it. I mean, I know I can really do it, but I was a little nervous that I might chicken out (I still might chicken out, but I am going to try hard not to). A marathon is a scary goal to set out to accomplish! Traveling in non-English-speaking countries is NOTHING compared to this!
I was previously lined up to run the Napa Valley Marathon, but there were a few obstacles so I decided to search for something a little cheaper and closer to where I live. Napa Valley will be visited, believe me, but maybe I will enjoy it more under different circumstances.
I found this marathon: Surf City USA Marathon. I am really excited because I think it is a perfect thing to mark my time in Southern California! It is a month earlier than the other one, so that means I have to work hard to finish all my training, but I am up for it! A big bonus is that it is really close (maybe 30 minutes away) and my friends (if I have some by then!) can come and cheer me on!
The trail goes down the Pacific Coast Highway through several beach areas. I read that we get cool surfboard medals at the end of it, too!
I was previously lined up to run the Napa Valley Marathon, but there were a few obstacles so I decided to search for something a little cheaper and closer to where I live. Napa Valley will be visited, believe me, but maybe I will enjoy it more under different circumstances.
I found this marathon: Surf City USA Marathon. I am really excited because I think it is a perfect thing to mark my time in Southern California! It is a month earlier than the other one, so that means I have to work hard to finish all my training, but I am up for it! A big bonus is that it is really close (maybe 30 minutes away) and my friends (if I have some by then!) can come and cheer me on!
The trail goes down the Pacific Coast Highway through several beach areas. I read that we get cool surfboard medals at the end of it, too!
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Look what I found!
This, my friends, is Laguna Lake. It is the first lake/river/pond I have seen in California...maybe ever. The 70-something-year-old identical twins across the street told me about this lake last week, but I didn't find it until today. The girls, Jean and Jane, have been particularly helpful in helping me find things in this new city. They are so cute, too--they live together, dress identically, have the same red hair, and even finish each others' sentences! I really like them--they remind me of my aunt Reeva, only doubled. Neither has been married or has children, and when one is over here too long, the other comes over to check things out.
My running has been a great way to get out and get to know the city. There are a couple of local trails I have tried running, and have the general layout of the streets on this side of town.
I am really excited to get out there on the trails tomorrow and see what else I can find! :)
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Awesome owl print:
This is SO on my wish list! Check it out:
I found this gocco print on etsy (click here to see the artist). It is a small print (3.5x5), and I might reward myself with it when I get a job! :) I never was much into owls until I moved to Korea. In Korea, owls seem to be everywhere--not real ones, necessarily, but paintings, sculptures and so on.
I found this gocco print on etsy (click here to see the artist). It is a small print (3.5x5), and I might reward myself with it when I get a job! :) I never was much into owls until I moved to Korea. In Korea, owls seem to be everywhere--not real ones, necessarily, but paintings, sculptures and so on.
Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins--yum!
I was inspired to make some pumpkin muffins after reading a friend's blog (Sabrina's) last week. I didn't have even the most basic of baking supplies (flour, sugar, oil...), so I had to really start from scratch (harvest the wheat and sugar cane, etc.). I whipped up these tasty things from a recipe I found online. I have linked the recipe, so if you are interested in trying them, just click here: allrecipes.com. They turned out better than I expected, though, they made more than the recipe told me they would. I ended up with almost 2 dozen muffins, and had to convince Martin to take a bunch home (it was tough to convince him)!
Running
Today's run was my longest one so far: somewhere between 11 and 12 miles. I felt great through the whole run and felt even better when it was over! :)
I am getting into my stride and can easily run 6-7 miles 4 times a week. I even like it. There is something called the "runner's high" that I have heard of--I think I get it. There is an addictive quality to running--it isn't horrible for me anymore, and, though I sometimes dread the thought of another grueling workout, I still get an enormous feeling of accomplishment when I finish even a shorter run.
I felt really good today--my body aches, but I feel like this marathon thing might really happen for me. It is one more life goal ready to be checked off my list!
I am getting into my stride and can easily run 6-7 miles 4 times a week. I even like it. There is something called the "runner's high" that I have heard of--I think I get it. There is an addictive quality to running--it isn't horrible for me anymore, and, though I sometimes dread the thought of another grueling workout, I still get an enormous feeling of accomplishment when I finish even a shorter run.
I felt really good today--my body aches, but I feel like this marathon thing might really happen for me. It is one more life goal ready to be checked off my list!
Project Runway
Last Saturday, I peeked out of one of the white, pom-pom-lined curtain windows in Edna's house and saw a yard sale across the street. I am a sucker for yard sales. Not the kind where people are just trying to pawn off their garbage onto other unsuspecting people from the dark depths of a damp garage, but the kind where there is charmingly useful/cool stuff neatly arranged on a lawn with happy sellers prepared to strike a bargain.
This sale in particular caught my eye because of the large, wheeled racks stuffed with colorful dresses. I wandered over to the sale and started chatting with the two gentlemen who lived in the house. I found out that they are both designers! One focuses on vintage-style dresses, while the other designs modern clothes to sell to department stores. All of the dresses that were hanging in the yard were original designs. Most were samples to show buyers, and luckily, many were my size. I pulled out a few (which were priced at $5 each) and settled on one dress that I liked the best.
I also picked up an apron that one of the men designed for $3. Fun sale! Now, I have no hard evidence on this, but I speculate that the yard sale season might extend far into the fall and winter months (it was 90 degrees today). I hope to stumble upon a few more fun sales like this one!
Here is the apron:
And, here is the dress:
I wore a black cami under the dress on Sunday with my open-toe, black heels. The dress has a tie in the back, but fits pretty close to my body (I am actually about a size larger than he makes the dresses, but this one fits).
This sale in particular caught my eye because of the large, wheeled racks stuffed with colorful dresses. I wandered over to the sale and started chatting with the two gentlemen who lived in the house. I found out that they are both designers! One focuses on vintage-style dresses, while the other designs modern clothes to sell to department stores. All of the dresses that were hanging in the yard were original designs. Most were samples to show buyers, and luckily, many were my size. I pulled out a few (which were priced at $5 each) and settled on one dress that I liked the best.
I also picked up an apron that one of the men designed for $3. Fun sale! Now, I have no hard evidence on this, but I speculate that the yard sale season might extend far into the fall and winter months (it was 90 degrees today). I hope to stumble upon a few more fun sales like this one!
Here is the apron:
And, here is the dress:
I wore a black cami under the dress on Sunday with my open-toe, black heels. The dress has a tie in the back, but fits pretty close to my body (I am actually about a size larger than he makes the dresses, but this one fits).
Friday, October 24, 2008
I like to make things.
This is my next project: an earing organizer.
I have a book that I call my style portfolio. It is a simple, black sketchbook with white pages on which I attach paint chips, fabric swatches and pictures of furniture and other housey things I like and want to someday incorporate into my home. Since I can't have a house yet, I guess this is my way of nesting.
Back to my project. I am going to take a plain, white frame with wide edges and remove the glass and back. Next, I will twist four to six small eyelet hooks into the wooden edges. I will then twist piano wire into the hooks to create the finished product: an earring organizer. I like this project because if I don't have my earrings displayed, I forget to wear them! I searched for a frame this morning at a local thrift store, but was unable to find what I needed. So, I will look again this weekend and pick one up somewhere else! I will post a pic of my finished product later.
I know I am going to get at least one jab about Martha Stewart about this. Go ahead...I can take it...
Who ya gonna call?
Last night, the Fox Theater in downtown Fullerton hosted a community movie night. They projected "Ghostbusters" on the back wall and invited people to bring lawn chairs to watch from the parking lot. Martin and I borrowed the plastic, non-folding chairs from Edna's porch and walked them down three blocks to the movie. There were lots of people--I always enjoy the guy way in the back with the loud and hilarious laugh, don't you? :) It was a really fun movie to revisit--I had forgotten how hopelessly cheesy this movie is! It is definitely a good one for those of us who opt out of the scary kind of ghost movies for Halloween.
After returning home from the movie, I opened the kitchen door and saw at least six nasty bugs trying to hide from me. I'm not scared of bugs, merely annoyed and grossed out. I hate the thought of those gnarly creatures scuttling across my dishes, or chewing up my coffee beans.
Because I was in the mood for a little exterminating (thanks to Dan Akyroyd, Rick Moranis and Bill Murray), I grabbed the can of raid and roasted one of them. I know, I know...not very humane of me, but I make no apologies.
Monday, October 20, 2008
The past few weeks.
There are a few things I love about California: the ocean, the weather, and the fact that my boyfriend is here. California has always been (and felt like) a vacation to me. I have never seriously considered living here. Not for long term, anyway. While I am still not sure I see California far into my future, I am here for now. It is always exciting to move to a new place. One might think that moving frequently is like building a muscle: the more you do something, the better you are at it. That is true to a certain extent. I am pretty adept at finding my bearings and setting up home in an unfamiliar place (I would have been an AWESOME nomadic tribal dweller), but things start to go numb after awhile. I can see how foster kids have a hard time making friends--when you are always on the move, what is the point of reaching out to people or making your room look nice? I am trying to get out, meet some people, get a job, and not step on black widow spiders all at the same time. It is really a juggling act, but one that I stepped into willingly. I do like the challenge, but it is still a challenge.
My mom drove out here with me a few weeks ago, and we stopped at the beach before dropping her off at the airport. Here are a couple of pictures of us from that day:
Here is a picture of me with my best friend from kindergarten, Sandy. We bonded all those years ago through Shamu, gummy bears and hiding from the old ladies at church (they were pretty crabby sometimes). We have been through a lot together--you know, twenty-two years is a long time to be friends when you are my age! I'm glad to say that we still laugh over silly things and allow life to amuse us in unconventional ways.
My mom drove out here with me a few weeks ago, and we stopped at the beach before dropping her off at the airport. Here are a couple of pictures of us from that day:
Here is a picture of me with my best friend from kindergarten, Sandy. We bonded all those years ago through Shamu, gummy bears and hiding from the old ladies at church (they were pretty crabby sometimes). We have been through a lot together--you know, twenty-two years is a long time to be friends when you are my age! I'm glad to say that we still laugh over silly things and allow life to amuse us in unconventional ways.
The new diggs.
I moved into my new place--I've been here for a little over a week, now. Things are going well living with a 94-year-old lady. She is really active for her age, and has a social calendar that is busier than mine. She gets to bed early (by 8PM usually), and wakes early (by 5AM usually). I have the feeling that she must think I am so lazy getting out of bed by 8.30! The thing is, I still don't have a job, so getting up early is not important. I think I will like retirement! :) Anyway, let me show you my room. Here is my closet/dresser area:
My twin bed:
The twin bed that still needs to be cleaned off (it's Edna's stuff--not mine):
I have access to my very own pencil sharpener in the corner near the door in case I ever get sad and miss the classroom, I guess.
What is this? A PA system? I don't understand what it does...it hasn't made any noises yet, but maybe there is a hidden camera or microphone or something...
Last, but not least, here are some of the things Edna has on display in "my" room. I am not sure how to tactfully ask for them to be put away while I am staying here. My only idea, so far, is to buy a really large lampshade for my table lamp and simply claim there is not enough space for everyone on the top of my nightstand. She says that the older ladies across the street keep giving her these toys, and she doesn't know where to put them all.
I am still getting settled into a routine, which is largely influenced by Edna's schedule so far. Because she gets to bed early (7.30~8PM), she likes me to be home before that time so I don't wake her up. Also, because she doesn't move around so quickly, she likes to know when I am coming and going so she doesn't think people are breaking into her house. It all makes sense, but is a little challenging for this girl to adapt to. I am not going to be able to abide by all the rules, but will try to be a good housemate nevertheless. :)
My twin bed:
The twin bed that still needs to be cleaned off (it's Edna's stuff--not mine):
I have access to my very own pencil sharpener in the corner near the door in case I ever get sad and miss the classroom, I guess.
What is this? A PA system? I don't understand what it does...it hasn't made any noises yet, but maybe there is a hidden camera or microphone or something...
Last, but not least, here are some of the things Edna has on display in "my" room. I am not sure how to tactfully ask for them to be put away while I am staying here. My only idea, so far, is to buy a really large lampshade for my table lamp and simply claim there is not enough space for everyone on the top of my nightstand. She says that the older ladies across the street keep giving her these toys, and she doesn't know where to put them all.
I am still getting settled into a routine, which is largely influenced by Edna's schedule so far. Because she gets to bed early (7.30~8PM), she likes me to be home before that time so I don't wake her up. Also, because she doesn't move around so quickly, she likes to know when I am coming and going so she doesn't think people are breaking into her house. It all makes sense, but is a little challenging for this girl to adapt to. I am not going to be able to abide by all the rules, but will try to be a good housemate nevertheless. :)
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Vagabond notes.
I’m in California now. My mom and I drove here over the weekend—the trip was relatively uneventful (except for the hours of rain, a new chip in my windshield, and a few accidents we came upon but were not involved in). We listened to books on CD, which is a great way to pass the hours. We arrived Saturday night, slept, then went to Newport Beach and Santa Monica before dropping Mom off at the airport at 2.
Since then, I have spent the last three days trying to orient myself in this new city. One would think that after all the traveling I have done, this would be an easy task. I have found, however, that the more moving I do, the more numb I become to the whole experience. Do you know what I did yesterday? I bought a map so I could find the beach. Call me lazy, but I was a little overwhelmed with the rest of the city, so I gave up and headed for the shore!
I have done some searching for jobs, but it is difficult to find something that pays enough for me to even go. Yesterday, I was offered a babysitting job, but the lady wanted to pay me $85 for 20 hours to watch her 9-month-old son. I know money is money, but it is a hard pill for me to swallow when someone wants to give me $4.25 an hour for my weekend. I told her I couldn’t do it. I am going to keep searching the papers and online and see what I can do. I hope to have something lined up in the next couple of weeks.
Today, I am going to meet the lady I am probably going to live with! We made plans for this afternoon—I am excited to get moved into a place. That will make me feel a little more like a permanent resident, rather than a vagabond.
Update: I med Edna and move in this weekend! She has a small house in the city of Fullerton. She is 94, sweet, talkative and spunky. She seems like a much younger person trapped in an old lady's body--she still has dreams, goals and ambitions. I hope I am like that when I am that old!
Since then, I have spent the last three days trying to orient myself in this new city. One would think that after all the traveling I have done, this would be an easy task. I have found, however, that the more moving I do, the more numb I become to the whole experience. Do you know what I did yesterday? I bought a map so I could find the beach. Call me lazy, but I was a little overwhelmed with the rest of the city, so I gave up and headed for the shore!
I have done some searching for jobs, but it is difficult to find something that pays enough for me to even go. Yesterday, I was offered a babysitting job, but the lady wanted to pay me $85 for 20 hours to watch her 9-month-old son. I know money is money, but it is a hard pill for me to swallow when someone wants to give me $4.25 an hour for my weekend. I told her I couldn’t do it. I am going to keep searching the papers and online and see what I can do. I hope to have something lined up in the next couple of weeks.
Today, I am going to meet the lady I am probably going to live with! We made plans for this afternoon—I am excited to get moved into a place. That will make me feel a little more like a permanent resident, rather than a vagabond.
Update: I med Edna and move in this weekend! She has a small house in the city of Fullerton. She is 94, sweet, talkative and spunky. She seems like a much younger person trapped in an old lady's body--she still has dreams, goals and ambitions. I hope I am like that when I am that old!
Friday, October 3, 2008
Concerts and Operas
This past week, I have been busy. I have been packing and organizing, planning and researching, and traveling and saying good-bye to people.
There has been a twist in my plans to drive to California. I thought I would have a friend to help me drive there, but apparently people have jobs and other fun plans (like camping trips). My mother has offered to drive to California with me as long as we drive straight through and leave right after work today! While I am really relieved to not be making this cross-country trip on my own (thanks, Mom!), I am sad that I won't be able to stop in and see a few people along the way (especially R and D). So, woo-hoo! to the fact that I will be settling into my new home as early as Sunday--I'm sad to leave MN, but the cool temps this week are telling me it's time to go.
Let me tell you two cool things I did this week:
Cool thing #1, Sunday
I saw my first opera! It was Il Travatore. It was really wonderful--I enjoyed the opera from a first mezzanine box seat with my friend. Excellent. Here is a famous clip from the show that everyone should recognize:
Cool thing #2, Wednesday
I went to see Liam Finn in concert at First Avenue, Seventh Street Entry with three friends! Liam Finn's music was introduced to me by Kara in Korea last February, and since then, I have had his music in every playlist mix I have made. He is kind of a hippie and is from New Zealand. Here is a clip of him on the David Letterman show:
Before the show, two friends and I were walking down the street in the wrong direction (we got turned around) and who do you think we bumped into? Yes, Liam Finn himself! We didn't speak, but I can say that the three of us girls made eye contact with Liam Finn and his two friends right before they ducked into a coffee shop for some pre-show mo-jo. It was an excellent concert!
There has been a twist in my plans to drive to California. I thought I would have a friend to help me drive there, but apparently people have jobs and other fun plans (like camping trips). My mother has offered to drive to California with me as long as we drive straight through and leave right after work today! While I am really relieved to not be making this cross-country trip on my own (thanks, Mom!), I am sad that I won't be able to stop in and see a few people along the way (especially R and D). So, woo-hoo! to the fact that I will be settling into my new home as early as Sunday--I'm sad to leave MN, but the cool temps this week are telling me it's time to go.
Let me tell you two cool things I did this week:
Cool thing #1, Sunday
I saw my first opera! It was Il Travatore. It was really wonderful--I enjoyed the opera from a first mezzanine box seat with my friend. Excellent. Here is a famous clip from the show that everyone should recognize:
Cool thing #2, Wednesday
I went to see Liam Finn in concert at First Avenue, Seventh Street Entry with three friends! Liam Finn's music was introduced to me by Kara in Korea last February, and since then, I have had his music in every playlist mix I have made. He is kind of a hippie and is from New Zealand. Here is a clip of him on the David Letterman show:
Before the show, two friends and I were walking down the street in the wrong direction (we got turned around) and who do you think we bumped into? Yes, Liam Finn himself! We didn't speak, but I can say that the three of us girls made eye contact with Liam Finn and his two friends right before they ducked into a coffee shop for some pre-show mo-jo. It was an excellent concert!
Hafta, Gonna, Wanna...Youbetcha.
I was watching the vice-presidential debate last night--before you stop reading, I want to clarify that this post is NOT political--and was distracted by something. I'm sure you caught it if you have heard Sarah Palin speak much. She has more of a "Fargo" accent than many Minnesotans I know! I couldn't get past it! I tried to listen to her policies and ideas, but kept getting blocked by her down-home speak.
I shouldn't be the one to talk about this, though. Since I have returned from Korea, I have noticed some strange things in my own speech patterns. My friends have been nice to point out that I am a little slow lately and that my words are extra-enunciated. A little slow? I hope it was only my speaking they were talking about! Yes, I have learned to be extremely careful about how I speak--when working with non-native speaking individuals, this is necessary. When speaking to American, English-speaking peers and teenage sisters, it is not.
To remedy my speech problem, I have intentionally started to add some of the rushed words that make it difficult for non-English speakers to understand, like, gonna, hafta, wanna, and shoulda. I don't like using these words, but I decided to add them into my vocabulary for a few months to jump start my normal, non-English-teacher language.
One problem, though: while my speech has sped up, I have started to hear something coming out of my mouth that I thought was gone for good: an up-north, Minnesota accent. No way! I worked hard in college to remove any traces of an accent that would mark me as a midwesterner--not because I dislike midwesterners, but because I teach English and don't want my students to sound like they stepped off the set of Fargo.
So, in light of last night's debate, and Sarah Palin's blaring accent, I have to admit that the reason it bothered me so much is that I have heard some of the same things in my own speech. I have decided to work on this in the dark recesses of my home (or, in the back room of my spunky, 94-year-old roommate, Edna) and not to speak in California until it is fixed! :)
I shouldn't be the one to talk about this, though. Since I have returned from Korea, I have noticed some strange things in my own speech patterns. My friends have been nice to point out that I am a little slow lately and that my words are extra-enunciated. A little slow? I hope it was only my speaking they were talking about! Yes, I have learned to be extremely careful about how I speak--when working with non-native speaking individuals, this is necessary. When speaking to American, English-speaking peers and teenage sisters, it is not.
To remedy my speech problem, I have intentionally started to add some of the rushed words that make it difficult for non-English speakers to understand, like, gonna, hafta, wanna, and shoulda. I don't like using these words, but I decided to add them into my vocabulary for a few months to jump start my normal, non-English-teacher language.
One problem, though: while my speech has sped up, I have started to hear something coming out of my mouth that I thought was gone for good: an up-north, Minnesota accent. No way! I worked hard in college to remove any traces of an accent that would mark me as a midwesterner--not because I dislike midwesterners, but because I teach English and don't want my students to sound like they stepped off the set of Fargo.
So, in light of last night's debate, and Sarah Palin's blaring accent, I have to admit that the reason it bothered me so much is that I have heard some of the same things in my own speech. I have decided to work on this in the dark recesses of my home (or, in the back room of my spunky, 94-year-old roommate, Edna) and not to speak in California until it is fixed! :)
Thursday, September 25, 2008
What keeps me awake at night.
Until 2.30AM to be exact. Here are some of the thoughts and ideas I had before getting out of bed to scribble madly into my notebook:
Central America
South America
running shoes, brand names
Hartnackshule in Berlin, 10 weeks
low GI research, building muscle mass
visas to enter South America
packing lists, moving
organizing my mail from last year, lots of it
green tea's amazing antioxidant qualities
Hal Higdon and his marathon books
nail polish, need to remove it
the Spanish language, how to more effectively learn it
Why is it that I can go through my day in such a mellow manner, but when my head hits my pillow and my lamp is switched off, my brain begins milling at warp-speed? I get really creative and motivated when it is time to turn in, but when I wake up, I'm a little sluggish and unwilling to really take full advantage of my morning hours. Pretty soon, I'm not going to be able to blame it on jet lag! :)
Central America
South America
running shoes, brand names
Hartnackshule in Berlin, 10 weeks
low GI research, building muscle mass
visas to enter South America
packing lists, moving
organizing my mail from last year, lots of it
green tea's amazing antioxidant qualities
Hal Higdon and his marathon books
nail polish, need to remove it
the Spanish language, how to more effectively learn it
Why is it that I can go through my day in such a mellow manner, but when my head hits my pillow and my lamp is switched off, my brain begins milling at warp-speed? I get really creative and motivated when it is time to turn in, but when I wake up, I'm a little sluggish and unwilling to really take full advantage of my morning hours. Pretty soon, I'm not going to be able to blame it on jet lag! :)
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
A new domestic godess?
I've watched my mom do her annual canning my whole life. I helped out when I lived at home, but never tried to learn how to do any of it myself. This process takes my mom weeks to complete--tomatoes, pickles, beans, fruits, applesauce, sauerkraut, and so on. Two days ago, I noticed that the grapes hadn't been harvested, so I picked the ripe fruit and imagined all the possible things we could make with them (my vote was wine, but there weren't enough). Mom said jelly, so jelly it is. She guided me through the process of making jelly--boiling the fruit down, stirring in the suregel and sugar, then sealing into jars. I know how to make jelly now!
Also, we picked three large containers of apples off my grandpa's tree on Saturday. While Mom worked on canning tomatoes last night, I made applesauce for the first time! It was pretty simple, but very time consuming! I cut and cleaned almost a whole 5-gallon bucket of apples and turned it into 6 jars of fresh, juicy applesauce! Here it is:
Impressive, huh? My finished product of canning products will hopefully grow a little today as I attempt another batch of applesauce unsupervised. Here is my mom's collection of canned goods for the year:
I know, I know...she beats me in quantity by a long shot!
New Stuff
These past couple of weeks have been both relaxing and a complete whirlwind! I've had long lists of things to do each day, but have allowed myself to take things as they come. I am realizing that I like not working--is it possible to get paid to not work? If so, I want in! In all reality, I would probably enjoy this for another month, but after that, I would be looking for projects to get involved with and places to spend money. For now, I'm enjoying this transition time.
I have been in the market for a car, as you know, and I am happy to say that yesterday I found one! I looked at many cars with different makes, models, colors, sizes and prices, but nothing really felt right until I stopped by a local dealer yesterday. He showed me three cars that were about in the same price range, and here is the one I decided on:
It has relatively low miles and was priced under the low end of my price range! What color would you call it? I am not sure--it isn't gold, but it isn't brown. Tan is not exactly the right description either.
I am really relieved to have a car finally--it puts me one step closer to leaving for California. Just another week or two--I am waiting on a few last things to fall into place, but I hope to get out of here before the snow starts to fall!
One more update: I think I have a place to live all lined up in Anaheim already! I am planning to move into the spare bedroom of a spunky 94-year-old lady. She and I have talked on the phone a couple of times and she is holding the spot open for me--we'll start with a temporary lease, but as long as I'm on my best behavior, maybe she will keep me! :) (The rent is REALLY low and it would be a fantastic way for me to save a little money.)
I have been in the market for a car, as you know, and I am happy to say that yesterday I found one! I looked at many cars with different makes, models, colors, sizes and prices, but nothing really felt right until I stopped by a local dealer yesterday. He showed me three cars that were about in the same price range, and here is the one I decided on:
It has relatively low miles and was priced under the low end of my price range! What color would you call it? I am not sure--it isn't gold, but it isn't brown. Tan is not exactly the right description either.
I am really relieved to have a car finally--it puts me one step closer to leaving for California. Just another week or two--I am waiting on a few last things to fall into place, but I hope to get out of here before the snow starts to fall!
One more update: I think I have a place to live all lined up in Anaheim already! I am planning to move into the spare bedroom of a spunky 94-year-old lady. She and I have talked on the phone a couple of times and she is holding the spot open for me--we'll start with a temporary lease, but as long as I'm on my best behavior, maybe she will keep me! :) (The rent is REALLY low and it would be a fantastic way for me to save a little money.)
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Martin and I are learning to dance!
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Martin was here a couple of weekends ago, and in our spare time, we whipped up this little dance and made a video of it. Enjoy! :)
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
I've got the kids today! :)
I've got my niece and nephew today--I'm watching them and having some fun with my photo booth application! The images have been altered...I know you can probably see that, but just in case, I wanted to let you know!
His head isn't really that small in real life.
Isn't she cute? Her eyes are huge and blue and my teeth look like they belong to a horse! Oh well.
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