I'm feeling very bitter right now, but I'm trying not to. The reason behind this bitterness is because I am sooo not looking forward to tomorrow... Another co-worker at Starbucks has fallen ill and so they've called me in on emergency. What sucks even more is that it's for an opening shift. You gotta be fucking kidding me! That's the second open I've had to cover this week. So my Friday will pan out as such:
500a-1015a: Starbucks
1030a-130p: school
130p-330p: do a hearing screening on my dad for lab
400p-500p: work other job
600p-whenever: attend a funeral
and then of course, I start brooding on all this. I start kicking myself for agreeing to such things. And then I think that I'm selfish and whining because there are people who do more and accomplish more, on top of me shamefully not being completely financially independent. But then I begin to think that I do work hard and I do things for other people and it just goes unnoticed and unappreciated, so I'm telling myself, "fuck this noise!"
this internal argument goes on and on: should I stick to my obligations and resent people even though it's not their fault? Or should I take a rain check and hope that they'll understand and let me reschedule? But then when else would be a good time because I have all this other shit going on and then it's square one all over again. BAH!
all I want to do is get caught up with myself before I get caught up with everything and everyone else, but the absolute last thing I ever want to do is make my friends feel like I'm taking them for granted. Lately, I've just been asking myself when I can actually go home, take a 5 minute breather, and get some of my own shit done without obligations in my way? When can I finally sit myself down and start working on fucking grad school applications?!?! That's what worries me the most...
and then I start negotiating: ok, well, work is last priority so maybe I can ask someone to cover for me this weekend. Oh but wait, I was a fucking idiot earlier this week and got my car towed so I have this fatty ticket and fee that I gotta pay... Well damn.
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
2x tall xtra hot mocha... in more ways than one
I'm beginning to think that working at Starbucks was one of the smartest things I've done... A lot of faculty and grad students in the department recognize me from there and a bunch of them have officially met me as a student. Now, they've put a face to a name, know me, and remember me. Score!
Saturday, October 3, 2009
i have an addiction. a bit of an affliction. i think i may need an intervention
I'm addicted to reading graphic design blogs beyond what is considered healthy. Don't believe me? I just spent the last hour and a half perusing Simple+Pretty... (*disclaimer: like me, she isn't a graphic designer, but one who appreciates it)
call it cliche, but I love the vintage minimalist style. I can't help it. Everything is just so gosh darn *cute*, from invitations, to calendars and business cards. Hell, the only thing I look forward to having kids of my own is how cute and creative I could get on my baby announcements and early birthday invitations!
I wish I had learned how to do some of these techniques like letterpress or book binding when I was younger. When I was a kid, I use to be super creative. I remember the only thing I liked about school was when a teacher announced a project. Instantly, an image would pop up in my head of what I wanted to make or draw. Art was my favorite class and one of the first occupations I could remember wanting to be as a kid was an artist (I distinctly remember telling that to my dad in the first grade as he was dropping us off at school). Even when my older brother was assigned projects, I'd do it myself rather than my social studies homework. Like, for instance, he had to make a cardboard castle (I think he was in the 5th grade at this point), and I remember searching for a box myself, getting my supplies, sitting on the floor next to him in his room, and making my own castle. I secretly suspect that at times he'd try to arrogate my projects, hehe
I'm unfortunately not as creative as I use to be, but I definitely still suffer from needing a creative outlet. I think that's why I like to get involved in random projects like knitting, trying to learn how to crochet, baking and cupcake decorating, creating postcards, relearning piano, etc. I'm certainly not very good at it, and I think at times, that discourages me because I set such high expectations of myself, especially when I start thinking, I had it in me at one point. It's gotta still be there! I think I need to keep reminding myself that such thinking and expectations can be more harmful than helpful, not because I should start setting low expectations of myself or that I have that insecurity, but because I need to focus on how good it feels to even just use my hands to make something, anything. I need to remind myself that this is my creative outlet, meaning it's a hobby, it's for fun. And most importantly, it's therapeutic :)
but I digress, perusing graphic design blogs and websites motivates me. Like an addiction, it releases this feeling of euphoria and makes me think that I can do anything. And oddly enough, that pushes me to get my shit done because I know that when all my work is done, I can start whatever creative project I have in mind; it's my reward. With that said, I should probably start getting some homework done so that I can work on this kangaroo I've been knitting
call it cliche, but I love the vintage minimalist style. I can't help it. Everything is just so gosh darn *cute*, from invitations, to calendars and business cards. Hell, the only thing I look forward to having kids of my own is how cute and creative I could get on my baby announcements and early birthday invitations!
I wish I had learned how to do some of these techniques like letterpress or book binding when I was younger. When I was a kid, I use to be super creative. I remember the only thing I liked about school was when a teacher announced a project. Instantly, an image would pop up in my head of what I wanted to make or draw. Art was my favorite class and one of the first occupations I could remember wanting to be as a kid was an artist (I distinctly remember telling that to my dad in the first grade as he was dropping us off at school). Even when my older brother was assigned projects, I'd do it myself rather than my social studies homework. Like, for instance, he had to make a cardboard castle (I think he was in the 5th grade at this point), and I remember searching for a box myself, getting my supplies, sitting on the floor next to him in his room, and making my own castle. I secretly suspect that at times he'd try to arrogate my projects, hehe
I'm unfortunately not as creative as I use to be, but I definitely still suffer from needing a creative outlet. I think that's why I like to get involved in random projects like knitting, trying to learn how to crochet, baking and cupcake decorating, creating postcards, relearning piano, etc. I'm certainly not very good at it, and I think at times, that discourages me because I set such high expectations of myself, especially when I start thinking, I had it in me at one point. It's gotta still be there! I think I need to keep reminding myself that such thinking and expectations can be more harmful than helpful, not because I should start setting low expectations of myself or that I have that insecurity, but because I need to focus on how good it feels to even just use my hands to make something, anything. I need to remind myself that this is my creative outlet, meaning it's a hobby, it's for fun. And most importantly, it's therapeutic :)
but I digress, perusing graphic design blogs and websites motivates me. Like an addiction, it releases this feeling of euphoria and makes me think that I can do anything. And oddly enough, that pushes me to get my shit done because I know that when all my work is done, I can start whatever creative project I have in mind; it's my reward. With that said, I should probably start getting some homework done so that I can work on this kangaroo I've been knitting
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
bitch please!
Chris and I were shopping at Costco, and like any Costco customer, I scope up a sample table, walk up to it, and grab one. Some old, crochety biatch was manning it and as I'm grabbing this sample, she bitches me out! She's all like, "Are you with an adult?" and I'm like, "huh???" Then, she keeps asking me all this shit about how if I'm with an adult or where's the adult or if I'm by myself, blah blah blah. It finally hits me what's up and I'm like, "I'm 24" hahahahah! Wtf yo. Kind of reminded me of that moment when my friend's mom didn't recognize me and I was like, "Ca-Ca-Carmel" hahaha. You know who you be ^_~
Monday, August 31, 2009
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
hey there muscle arms
observation of the day: my fob glasses apparently make me more approachable.
I wore them the other day because I had to cram for finals, so honestly I was thinking I was looking all scruuub. Au contraire. I got a lot of compliments that day, and I noticed that a lot of people who apparently are our regulars talked to me more and even tried to maintain conversation (I also observed that a lot of these customers were of the Asian variety. Then again, we are in Seattle, but still, coincidence?). They usually started the convo w/a comment on said glasses.
I worked again today, but this time wearing contacts, and some of those customers who approached me before weren't so chatty today. Some of them even asked what happened to my glasses. Bear in mind, this also stands out to me because I haven't been working much lately, so the fact that they even remember me was surprising.
I have another, older pair of glasses that are pretty normal and nondescript, nothing special. When I wear those, peeps definitely know I'm scrub or make a comment/joke about having slept in, even on days when I've had substantial sleep and got ready and had my hair did. Wft???
I don't know, what do you think? You be the judge...
approachable fob?
unapproachable barista?
tired scruuub...?
I wore them the other day because I had to cram for finals, so honestly I was thinking I was looking all scruuub. Au contraire. I got a lot of compliments that day, and I noticed that a lot of people who apparently are our regulars talked to me more and even tried to maintain conversation (I also observed that a lot of these customers were of the Asian variety. Then again, we are in Seattle, but still, coincidence?). They usually started the convo w/a comment on said glasses.
I worked again today, but this time wearing contacts, and some of those customers who approached me before weren't so chatty today. Some of them even asked what happened to my glasses. Bear in mind, this also stands out to me because I haven't been working much lately, so the fact that they even remember me was surprising.
I have another, older pair of glasses that are pretty normal and nondescript, nothing special. When I wear those, peeps definitely know I'm scrub or make a comment/joke about having slept in, even on days when I've had substantial sleep and got ready and had my hair did. Wft???
I don't know, what do you think? You be the judge...
who would you buy coffee from?
approachable fob?
unapproachable barista?
tired scruuub...?
Monday, July 20, 2009
let's take the shuttle to shattle
I've decided that even though half the month's gone pass (wha?!?!!?!?!), July is still gonna be pie month for me! Chris got me a pie pan awhiles ago, and for some reason, I feel especially compelled now to use it. It's all this sun man! It screams barbecue & picnics to me, and with that I see blue & white checkerboard picnic blankets with a warm apple pie steaming on top of it, just waiting to be eaten, mmm.
I made my first quiche not too long ago (counts as pie if it was made in a pie pan! points), and making the crust for that wasn't so bad, so I'm excited to try again. My next endeavor will be, of course, apple pie courtesy of Martha Stewart, but I'm thinking of sprinkling some cardamom & Grains of Paradise on mine. I also have an ice cream maker, so I can make that shit a la mode. I'm tempted to have a picnic to serve said pie, but I think I need to steer clear of the sun for awhile... Look what it did to me the other day:
Chris: are you sure you don't have chicken pox?
me: I've had fuckin' shingles! I'm pretty sure this isn't the pox.
I made my first quiche not too long ago (counts as pie if it was made in a pie pan! points), and making the crust for that wasn't so bad, so I'm excited to try again. My next endeavor will be, of course, apple pie courtesy of Martha Stewart, but I'm thinking of sprinkling some cardamom & Grains of Paradise on mine. I also have an ice cream maker, so I can make that shit a la mode. I'm tempted to have a picnic to serve said pie, but I think I need to steer clear of the sun for awhile... Look what it did to me the other day:
Chris: are you sure you don't have chicken pox?me: I've had fuckin' shingles! I'm pretty sure this isn't the pox.
Friday, July 17, 2009
>:O
a few months ago, my sister sent me this article as a response to an issue I was having with a particular friend. As much as it rang true then, lately, I'm finding myself thinking about it more & more while trying to refrain myself from harboring certain resentments towards other people...
I bring this up now because it just happened again! A situation where money & friends conflicted. After graduating, a friend of mine moved back home with his parents in Olympia because he couldn't afford to stay in Seattle anymore. Fair enough. Fairly recently, I was told he was coming up today and wanted to grab dinner & drinks at this Cajun restaurant downtown. This place, though the food isn't even that great, is not cheap to say the least. So I told them I couldn't come out tonight because I just paid tuition & I'm really trying to save money. In fact, he and this group of friends are quite aware of my financial situation. They're aware how much my tuition costs. They're aware that despite getting some aid, I still owe a couple thousand per quarter out of pocket. They're aware that I can't afford to do a lot of things right now. And they're aware that I'm trying to find another job because my current one, which doesn't pay very much to begin with, is only scheduling me 5-10 hrs a week! I've told them flat out, I'm saving my money so I can do things that are cheap or free. And since I wouldn't be able to see him tonight, I invited them to check out Bite of Seattle with me tomorrow. And what do I get? A response from a third person basically saying I'm a bad person?!
Can I just say a big FUCK YOU for making that judgment call! FUCK YOU for yet again not being understanding! And FUCK YOU for reminding me of how poor I am and making me feel bad for not having enough money to do certain things because oh yeah, I'm using it all up to get quality education toward my career. FUCK YOU because if you were my friend, you'd understand where I'm coming from and leave it at that. You wouldn't try to guilt trip me into spending the money I don't have. You would support me trying to move forward. And, out of common decency, you wouldn't keep hounding the money issue on me.
and what gets me more is that they don't seem to get that going places and getting around is easy for them because they all already live in the city or are an easy bus ride away. They think that just because I have a car, I'll drive anywhere and take them along. They don't realize that that takes gas and money, and they don't have to make the car payments or wait in fucking 520 traffic! I'm the one that always drives out there to see them. Or I'm the one that takes the trouble to bus it out there from the east side! And because of that, I have to figure out a way to get myself back because buses don't run that late or the ones that do are in really shady areas that I don't want to be around by myself in the dark. If you really wanted to spend as much time with me as you say, then why don't you ever reciprocate the effort to try to make it out to see me? I feel like people who don't have cars don't understand this and that you're not they're chaffeur.
the only people I feel like who really get this outside of my family are Megan and September, and for that, I couldn't be any more grateful for their understanding and their support. And because of that, I will & do make that extra effort to see them or to catch up with them. I have to say that one of the most touching moments I had ever felt was when I was catching up with Megan, helping her move to her new place and whatnot. After I expressed some concern about my loans and paying for education, she offered to give me a loan. I was really surprised and taken off guard by that because that's not what I was getting at at all, but her response?
I bring this up now because it just happened again! A situation where money & friends conflicted. After graduating, a friend of mine moved back home with his parents in Olympia because he couldn't afford to stay in Seattle anymore. Fair enough. Fairly recently, I was told he was coming up today and wanted to grab dinner & drinks at this Cajun restaurant downtown. This place, though the food isn't even that great, is not cheap to say the least. So I told them I couldn't come out tonight because I just paid tuition & I'm really trying to save money. In fact, he and this group of friends are quite aware of my financial situation. They're aware how much my tuition costs. They're aware that despite getting some aid, I still owe a couple thousand per quarter out of pocket. They're aware that I can't afford to do a lot of things right now. And they're aware that I'm trying to find another job because my current one, which doesn't pay very much to begin with, is only scheduling me 5-10 hrs a week! I've told them flat out, I'm saving my money so I can do things that are cheap or free. And since I wouldn't be able to see him tonight, I invited them to check out Bite of Seattle with me tomorrow. And what do I get? A response from a third person basically saying I'm a bad person?!
Can I just say a big FUCK YOU for making that judgment call! FUCK YOU for yet again not being understanding! And FUCK YOU for reminding me of how poor I am and making me feel bad for not having enough money to do certain things because oh yeah, I'm using it all up to get quality education toward my career. FUCK YOU because if you were my friend, you'd understand where I'm coming from and leave it at that. You wouldn't try to guilt trip me into spending the money I don't have. You would support me trying to move forward. And, out of common decency, you wouldn't keep hounding the money issue on me.
and what gets me more is that they don't seem to get that going places and getting around is easy for them because they all already live in the city or are an easy bus ride away. They think that just because I have a car, I'll drive anywhere and take them along. They don't realize that that takes gas and money, and they don't have to make the car payments or wait in fucking 520 traffic! I'm the one that always drives out there to see them. Or I'm the one that takes the trouble to bus it out there from the east side! And because of that, I have to figure out a way to get myself back because buses don't run that late or the ones that do are in really shady areas that I don't want to be around by myself in the dark. If you really wanted to spend as much time with me as you say, then why don't you ever reciprocate the effort to try to make it out to see me? I feel like people who don't have cars don't understand this and that you're not they're chaffeur.
the only people I feel like who really get this outside of my family are Megan and September, and for that, I couldn't be any more grateful for their understanding and their support. And because of that, I will & do make that extra effort to see them or to catch up with them. I have to say that one of the most touching moments I had ever felt was when I was catching up with Megan, helping her move to her new place and whatnot. After I expressed some concern about my loans and paying for education, she offered to give me a loan. I was really surprised and taken off guard by that because that's not what I was getting at at all, but her response?
What? You have to finish school.Simple as that. In fact, I think she even shrugged her shoulders as she said that so nonchalantly. I told her that I'd figure something out, but that I hugely, immensely appreciated the sentiment. I love that she just got it. She understood priorities. It was all "no muss, no fuss". It was so poignant how understanding, supportive, and sensitive she was that by that one and simple statement that I almost cried, it was so incredibly nice of her. I'll never ever take her up on that offer because I'd rather take out a loan on my own or at least I'm fortunate enough to have my family around to help, but I'll forever appreciate her for being one of the chillest, most understanding, and most supportive people ever.
Monday, June 29, 2009
taco stop-o
there are just some people in this world that make me sooo incredibly happy :3. Something about these people that makes me light up and get excited just by seeing them. Tonight, I had the fortune of running into one of my happy people. Alex.
words can't describe how much I heart this guy! He's just so... so... so fucking jolly. That's the right word--he makes me feel like Christmas. We always run into each other at the most random places, and tonight, it was Finns, but every time we run into each other, it's like summer never ended. And my favorite part is the most amazing bear hugs he gives. I love when he gives the best hugs and lifts you off the ground, even if you're 6' tall ::coughPcoughcough::. Alex can make my bad day into a great day just by being around his energy. He's such a great guy, funny, happy-go-lucky, and really chill. I'm not attracted to him or want to hook up with him, but I do know that he possesses a lot of attributes that I look for in my ideal mate: makes me feel good, sees the good in everything&everyone, talkative yet a good listener, and most importantly, he makes me laugh.
I feel like there are so few guys who are like this; guys that are just soo cool and respectful of other people. Guys who know how to have a good time and who know how to treat you right. I feel very comfortable when I'm at a party with him because we can roll with it and have a good time, but I know he'll have my back in an instant. It's like Robb, another really good guy friend who is the quintessential guy to be around. He's a marine, yet he's so eclectic, fun to be around, and will always have your back. Alex & Robb define the good guy; and not the nice guy who always ends up last. That's what makes them so cool; they're the nice guy who gets it all because they're such good guys. These guys keep me believing that there's truly great people out there. I wish there were more guys like them because ladies, if you don't know Alex or Robb, let me tell ya, you are missing out my friend. You are missing out on some truly amazing people in this world.
words can't describe how much I heart this guy! He's just so... so... so fucking jolly. That's the right word--he makes me feel like Christmas. We always run into each other at the most random places, and tonight, it was Finns, but every time we run into each other, it's like summer never ended. And my favorite part is the most amazing bear hugs he gives. I love when he gives the best hugs and lifts you off the ground, even if you're 6' tall ::coughPcoughcough::. Alex can make my bad day into a great day just by being around his energy. He's such a great guy, funny, happy-go-lucky, and really chill. I'm not attracted to him or want to hook up with him, but I do know that he possesses a lot of attributes that I look for in my ideal mate: makes me feel good, sees the good in everything&everyone, talkative yet a good listener, and most importantly, he makes me laugh.
I feel like there are so few guys who are like this; guys that are just soo cool and respectful of other people. Guys who know how to have a good time and who know how to treat you right. I feel very comfortable when I'm at a party with him because we can roll with it and have a good time, but I know he'll have my back in an instant. It's like Robb, another really good guy friend who is the quintessential guy to be around. He's a marine, yet he's so eclectic, fun to be around, and will always have your back. Alex & Robb define the good guy; and not the nice guy who always ends up last. That's what makes them so cool; they're the nice guy who gets it all because they're such good guys. These guys keep me believing that there's truly great people out there. I wish there were more guys like them because ladies, if you don't know Alex or Robb, let me tell ya, you are missing out my friend. You are missing out on some truly amazing people in this world.
Saturday, June 13, 2009
no money, mo' problems
I finally got an official notice on my financial aid status at UW, and while a huge weight has been lifted off my shoulders, there's still a significant chunk I have to cover myself. And what's worse, part of that chunk is due in a month. Well kids, looks like I'm gonna have to hang up the party hat and put away my dancing shoes for a long while...
Friday, May 29, 2009
it's too big. it's too wide. it's too strong. it won't fit
2 things I like about Houston: the food & the hip hop scene
- I can't begin to get into everything I've eaten! It's not that the food is delicious in a "I'm in a foreign country and their food is AMAZING!" type of way. No no no, it's that there's so fucking much of it! And you can get anything at all hours of the day. Plus, being that I partly grew up down here, my taste buds are still privy to (Tex) Mexican, Soul Food, Creole/Cajun, kolaches, and Houston definitely has their fill of it all, mmm.
- Houstonians show their love for their homegirl Beyonce. Now now, I know she's not the best example of good hip hop (ok, bad start Carmel), but I've discovered some really good songs on her latest album that don't get played at all up in Seattle. Aside from that, the hip hop is still wonderful. They play the good stuff and they play the G stuff. Like PR, bad hip hop/rap is good hip hop/rap, hahah. I mean, who can't appreciate lyrics like
she fine den a bitch, ass and her tits
thick in tha hips erry nigga want her
call her Halle Berry (Halle Berry) Halle Berry (Halle Berry)
she walkin like a model
hands on yo knees
scrub the ground
she ain't nuttin but a tease
Halle Berry (Halle Berry) Halle Berry (Halle Berry)
Monday, May 4, 2009
where in the world is barmel baga-anan?
my sister just introduced me to this site, which is a bunch of funny ass text messages that perhaps should've never been sent (i.e., drunk texts, incriminating texts), haha! Now you know we've all been there. Here are some of my favorites, to name a few:
there's a lot more on the site. Still, none of them will ever beat this one:
ahahahha! CLASSIC
(317): why did u let me go home with him last night?
(260): u were determined it was a good idea
(318): i either just vomited on a lesbian or a small boy
(508): hdsncx Gizmo asnqw toilet blanasdi
(214): ok, stay where you are, be there soon
(214): dude, I'm so drunk.
(972): pete, this is bryce's mom
(214): I can't wait to have my cock in your ass
(972): pete, this is still bryce's mom
there's a lot more on the site. Still, none of them will ever beat this one:
Robert: where are you?
Tracy: hetn barb un want to duch you
ahahahha! CLASSIC
Sunday, April 19, 2009
you win some, you bruise some
just got back from the Rat City Rollergirls, which was sooooo much fun! I had first heard about roller derby maybe about a year ago, and while I still didn't really know what it was, it sounded ridonkulous, which meant it was right up my alley. After having been to a bout, I kind of get the rules, but not well enough to explain it, so if you're curious, I'd suggest just reading this. Otherwise, in a nutshell, it's a bunch of kickass women kicking ass on roller skates, hoo rah!tonight's bout had 4 teams competing:
- Derby Liberation Front (DLF): rebellion army themed team and defending champions
- Grave Danger: the undertakers
- Socket Wenches: auto shop themed team and competing in the championship match
- Throttle Rockets: galactic
watching these women really made me want to kick some ass too, haha! It made me want to go to the gym and work out. I actually found out that there's a volunteer group where people can practice & learn about roller derby, so I'm considering checking it out just to try & say I've done it, hee. I think it could be fun to participate in a roller derby match at some point in my life. Hell, there were women there that looked like titas! I would've guessed the skaters' ages ranged from their 20s to their 40s.
and on top of kicking ass on roller skates, I could have an awesome name! Some of the names I liked from tonight's match were Foxy Throwdown, Meg MyDay, Carmen GetSome, Bruise Lee, Georgia O'Grief, Scarlet Leather, Shovey Chase, and Jowanna Ass Kickin', haha. The whole time, Christine and I just kept trying to think of what our roller derby names would be (it was much like thinking about our stripper names & drag queen names, haha). I came up with Blondie Slam for Christine. I thought of a few for myself, but none that I'm really satisfied with... so far, I've got Thunder Thighs, Killetto, and The Killa from Manilla.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
happy easter!
I can't seem to find those Cadbury mini-eggs with the hardshell that come in that purple packaging :(. I don't remember what they're called, but Viv & I used to munch on them in freshmen year all the time (thus furthering the unfortunate process otherwise known as "The Freshmen 15"...). Poo
on a different & totally unrelated note, I just found out that one of my friends likes me. This stands out to me in particular because I'm kind of attracted to him too... We have the same sense of humor, he's really chill, but maybe a little too comfortable around me at times (if you know what I mean), and physically, he meets the profile that I like: tall & beefy, with some lovin' for huggin'. I'd always thought he was cool, but I just never humoured the idea of us before because we were (I still am) dating other people, and the qualities in him that I'm attracted to are what I like in guys as friends, but not as a boyfriend. This would explain why he kept in touch with me when I left for Taiwan, which was surprising because we were cool, but I hadn't realized we were that cool.
plus, he moved up to Bellingham, so to be honest, I figured I wouldn't be seeing much of him really. In fact, I saw him for the first time since summer a few weeks ago. We chatted and caught up, it was good times. But then, a very drunk mutual friend of ours told me, "I think he lurvs you" ::wink::, and while I'm not prone to believing the drunk, it did make me suspicious and thus distance myself from him the rest of the night. Now I have actual, legit, sober confirmation and it's making me wonder... But then I feel bad because I shouldn't even be thinking or humouring this idea; I'm with Chris. Bah! Sometimes I miss the simplicity & freedom of single life :p. It may sound selfish, but at least I had no one to take care of but myself, my family, and my friends.
on a different & totally unrelated note, I just found out that one of my friends likes me. This stands out to me in particular because I'm kind of attracted to him too... We have the same sense of humor, he's really chill, but maybe a little too comfortable around me at times (if you know what I mean), and physically, he meets the profile that I like: tall & beefy, with some lovin' for huggin'. I'd always thought he was cool, but I just never humoured the idea of us before because we were (I still am) dating other people, and the qualities in him that I'm attracted to are what I like in guys as friends, but not as a boyfriend. This would explain why he kept in touch with me when I left for Taiwan, which was surprising because we were cool, but I hadn't realized we were that cool.
plus, he moved up to Bellingham, so to be honest, I figured I wouldn't be seeing much of him really. In fact, I saw him for the first time since summer a few weeks ago. We chatted and caught up, it was good times. But then, a very drunk mutual friend of ours told me, "I think he lurvs you" ::wink::, and while I'm not prone to believing the drunk, it did make me suspicious and thus distance myself from him the rest of the night. Now I have actual, legit, sober confirmation and it's making me wonder... But then I feel bad because I shouldn't even be thinking or humouring this idea; I'm with Chris. Bah! Sometimes I miss the simplicity & freedom of single life :p. It may sound selfish, but at least I had no one to take care of but myself, my family, and my friends.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
can't lose what i use
I had my first meeting with my advisor in the Speech & Hearing Sciences department and man alive am I tired! I knew the next 5 quarters would be busy, but I guess I hadn't realize just how much work I've got ahead of me -_-''. She gave me all of these info packets that were really helpful, but I fear to pull them out of my bag again... Not only do I have a lot of work cut out for me for the program itself, I've got to start studying for my GREs, take them no later than December, write another personal statement, gather all my documents and resumes, contact a professor & aid him/her on their research, attend clinics & complete observation hours, and apply for grad schools. Oh, and I should have most of this all done by autumn. I know that's still 4 months away, but still. That's just 4 months away! And with my classes, summer is gonna go by real fast... I know I'm just feeling a little bit overwhelmed and that it was a lot of information to get on the first day, but damn Gina, I just need to exhale :o/
still, it could be worse. I could be Lindsay Lohan and be broke off my ass.
still, it could be worse. I could be Lindsay Lohan and be broke off my ass.
Monday, April 6, 2009
bitchalisms: look it up
"I like 'em when you're cute in the face & you're thick in the waist"word Jamie! mmhmm
Sunday, April 5, 2009
le sigh
I just got an email from Clay telling me that he's gotten involved with someone in Japan. I don't know what to make of this. I feel like I should be happy, but while I'm not devastated, hearing this kind of sucks. To be honest, I can't say I really feel too much toward him beyond care in a platonic sense. I mean, yeah, he still means a lot to me, but I don't necessarily want to be with him. I haven't even thought about him much lately. Nonetheless, I must admit that I was rather affected by this news.
it got me to thinking about our history together, especially what transpired when we last saw each other. I do feel a little bad because I think I was slowly distancing myself from him. I started resenting him after our trip to Portland this winter and everything he told me... But anywho, hearing this news was not exactly exciting for me. I know it's only fair and that we both discussed the inevitable and that I should be happy for him. I am as long as she's good to and for him, but beyond that, I really don't care to know anything else. I don't care to know how they met, who she is, what he sees in her, etc. Yet I can't help but wonder how I compare to her or if he still feels the same way about me. Hell, I was amazed to find myself wishing not to know at all.
to add on to things, coincidently the past few days, I've been seriously thinking about my relationship with Chris and where I stand on that. I've been doing a lot of back-&-forth decision making as to what I should do. As a result, I've kind of distanced myself from him. I think he's noticed since he's mentioned something, but I don't really know what to do or what to say to him because whatever I'm feeling, only I can fix. He's not necessarily doing or not doing anything to make things worse or better; I'm just questioning my own feelings. So it's a lot for me to take in when I'm having my own doubts with my current relationship and amidst that, I get word from a past romance about his new relationship. All of this and how I'm feeling about everything right now makes me feel selfish and unfair, ugh! What is it about past romances that keep us forever connected even if the spark is completely gone? And what makes it so hard to ever completely sever that bond? le sigh
it got me to thinking about our history together, especially what transpired when we last saw each other. I do feel a little bad because I think I was slowly distancing myself from him. I started resenting him after our trip to Portland this winter and everything he told me... But anywho, hearing this news was not exactly exciting for me. I know it's only fair and that we both discussed the inevitable and that I should be happy for him. I am as long as she's good to and for him, but beyond that, I really don't care to know anything else. I don't care to know how they met, who she is, what he sees in her, etc. Yet I can't help but wonder how I compare to her or if he still feels the same way about me. Hell, I was amazed to find myself wishing not to know at all.
to add on to things, coincidently the past few days, I've been seriously thinking about my relationship with Chris and where I stand on that. I've been doing a lot of back-&-forth decision making as to what I should do. As a result, I've kind of distanced myself from him. I think he's noticed since he's mentioned something, but I don't really know what to do or what to say to him because whatever I'm feeling, only I can fix. He's not necessarily doing or not doing anything to make things worse or better; I'm just questioning my own feelings. So it's a lot for me to take in when I'm having my own doubts with my current relationship and amidst that, I get word from a past romance about his new relationship. All of this and how I'm feeling about everything right now makes me feel selfish and unfair, ugh! What is it about past romances that keep us forever connected even if the spark is completely gone? And what makes it so hard to ever completely sever that bond? le sigh
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
aw HALE nah!!
I received this email earlier this afternoon:
two hours later, I received this email:
MOTHERFUCKER! I nearly shit my pants!
Dear Emilie,
You submitted an application to the University of Washington for Summer 2009. At that time, the University was not able to offer you admission but referred you to the University of Washington's Evening Degree Program.
[shock. disbelief. bullshit. more bullshit. tears. fears. agony]
Sincerely yours,
Connie Montgomery, Director
Academic Advising
UW Evening Degree Program
two hours later, I received this email:
Dear Emilie,
You recently received a message from the University of Washington Evening Degree Program, signed by Connie Montgomery. Please disregard that message. Due to an error, their message was inadvertently sent to you.
We regret any confusion or inconvenience this may have caused you.
Sincerely,
The Office of Admissions
University of Washington Seattle
MOTHERFUCKER! I nearly shit my pants!
Monday, March 30, 2009
ay, ye wee lass
the owner of Finn MacCools is one of our regulars at work, and he's actually about to open a new bar. I don't remember the name, but I believe it's on East Lake (like, on the lake) and it's going to be more swank and loungier. He actually came in today and when I asked him about it, he said it was opening this Thursday. Now I can't say I'm entirely sure he knows/remembers me, but as he was stepping out, he told me,
oh, but I digress. I first heard of this upcoming bar about 2ish months ago, and since then have been slowly trying to plant the seeds of bubbly, personable barista to get him to remember me. Perhaps my plan is working, yes ::evil laugh::. If only I can work for him and leave the coffee biz T_T. I don't even drink coffee, but at least I enjoy a dranky drank here & there so my product knowledge would be put to better use.
as part of my ongoing plan to ingrain my face in his memory bank, I propose attending opening night this Thursday! If not to become a member of his workforce, at least to be a regular and maybe gain comped-drink status? Beer for coffee? I'd say it's a fair trade... well, not really, but it's all relative. Anyway, who's down?
"maybe we can steal you away" ::wink::ahhh, what does this mean?! Do I have a chance to work there, even as a server? I'll be bar back--I'll be someone's bitch! Why do you tease me so? And in that adorable Irish lilt of yours? Have I mentioned that even though he's like in his 40s or 50s, he's a total silver fox, mmm... Anderson Cooper, step aside. I like my men like I like my whiskey: straight.
oh, but I digress. I first heard of this upcoming bar about 2ish months ago, and since then have been slowly trying to plant the seeds of bubbly, personable barista to get him to remember me. Perhaps my plan is working, yes ::evil laugh::. If only I can work for him and leave the coffee biz T_T. I don't even drink coffee, but at least I enjoy a dranky drank here & there so my product knowledge would be put to better use.
as part of my ongoing plan to ingrain my face in his memory bank, I propose attending opening night this Thursday! If not to become a member of his workforce, at least to be a regular and maybe gain comped-drink status? Beer for coffee? I'd say it's a fair trade... well, not really, but it's all relative. Anyway, who's down?
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
erectospectively...
I can't wait to have a place of my own. I was putting things up today and while my current digs are really nice (in fact, my latest house project is a vegetable & herb garden! ^_^ I'm really excited to get that started, but more on that later), it made me think of my dream box.
I use to have a box where I collectively stored ideas, pictures, floor plans, and notes on things I wanted in my dream home. Whenever I ran into something I liked, I either jotted it down, took a pic of it, or tore it out of a magazine to save for that day when I became a *homeowner*. The idea came to me when one sunny afternoon, I passed by (in the words of Yann Martel) "a riot of flowers". I walked by some of the most beautiful gardens, and like any true UW student, took in the beauty of the blossoming cherry trees that fill The Quad. I knew that I could never learn the names of these plants, so I figured, if I were ever to landscape my own yard/garden and my contractor asked what I wanted, I'd just show him/her pictures, hoping he/she would be able to identify them. In addition, after my family moved into the house, I took pics of our really cool shower facets because I knew that when I wanted to design my bathrooms, I wouldn't know how to describe what I wanted in builder's terms, but I could show what I wanted and get it done right.
unfortunately, through the years and many many moves, I lost this box :(. I lost pictures of plants, architectural structures, and designs that I'll never see again. I lost ideas that were progressive and had balanced form with function. I lost parts of my dream home, le sigh...
but alas! all is not entirely lost. I know that my tastes have changed between when I started this project and now. I've traveled to further lands and was introduced to new art forms and ideas of urban planning. I've seen other cultural interpretations of efficient use of living space and taken note. And most importantly, my own experiences residing in multiple living situations has taught me more about myself and what I look for in a home. It's time to start a new dream box! To jot down what little I remember from the old box and record new things to come ^_^.
to that note, I hope to someday have an awesome herb, vegetable, & fruit garden in my dream home. I want to be able to go to my backyard and pick fresh vegetables or to plan my meals with the seasons. But before I can do that, I need to learn how to garden; a bit of a green thumb would help, and as I mentioned earlier, I'm currently working on an herb & vegetable garden. Chris & I went to the store to pick up tools and seeds, and fortunately, his backyard is already set up for a garden. There are 6 boxes ready for the pickens and 3 planters for our herbs. I have some experience with herbs from a birthday gift Carlo & I got for Char so I know they're fairly low-maintenance, but after reading My Empire of Dirt (future gardeners & farmers, take note!), I've come to realize that I still have a lot of learning and research to do, aiyah! It'll take some time & energy, but whether this is a good thing or not, I have a lot of that... at least until school starts in the summer. I can only hope my gardening experiences now will not only yield edible crop, but will also help me plan better and add new ideas to my dream box.
oh, and I would like to mention that this entire gardening venture was completely unassociated with Michelle Obama's interview on her own gardening plans. I was only informed today that such an article even existed, hence this recent "locavore" movement. Us roomies have been planning this vegetable garden for quite some time now, though I must give props to our First Lady for advocating self-sustaining food, holla! You mah gurl Michelle, you mah GURL!
I use to have a box where I collectively stored ideas, pictures, floor plans, and notes on things I wanted in my dream home. Whenever I ran into something I liked, I either jotted it down, took a pic of it, or tore it out of a magazine to save for that day when I became a *homeowner*. The idea came to me when one sunny afternoon, I passed by (in the words of Yann Martel) "a riot of flowers". I walked by some of the most beautiful gardens, and like any true UW student, took in the beauty of the blossoming cherry trees that fill The Quad. I knew that I could never learn the names of these plants, so I figured, if I were ever to landscape my own yard/garden and my contractor asked what I wanted, I'd just show him/her pictures, hoping he/she would be able to identify them. In addition, after my family moved into the house, I took pics of our really cool shower facets because I knew that when I wanted to design my bathrooms, I wouldn't know how to describe what I wanted in builder's terms, but I could show what I wanted and get it done right.
unfortunately, through the years and many many moves, I lost this box :(. I lost pictures of plants, architectural structures, and designs that I'll never see again. I lost ideas that were progressive and had balanced form with function. I lost parts of my dream home, le sigh...
but alas! all is not entirely lost. I know that my tastes have changed between when I started this project and now. I've traveled to further lands and was introduced to new art forms and ideas of urban planning. I've seen other cultural interpretations of efficient use of living space and taken note. And most importantly, my own experiences residing in multiple living situations has taught me more about myself and what I look for in a home. It's time to start a new dream box! To jot down what little I remember from the old box and record new things to come ^_^.
to that note, I hope to someday have an awesome herb, vegetable, & fruit garden in my dream home. I want to be able to go to my backyard and pick fresh vegetables or to plan my meals with the seasons. But before I can do that, I need to learn how to garden; a bit of a green thumb would help, and as I mentioned earlier, I'm currently working on an herb & vegetable garden. Chris & I went to the store to pick up tools and seeds, and fortunately, his backyard is already set up for a garden. There are 6 boxes ready for the pickens and 3 planters for our herbs. I have some experience with herbs from a birthday gift Carlo & I got for Char so I know they're fairly low-maintenance, but after reading My Empire of Dirt (future gardeners & farmers, take note!), I've come to realize that I still have a lot of learning and research to do, aiyah! It'll take some time & energy, but whether this is a good thing or not, I have a lot of that... at least until school starts in the summer. I can only hope my gardening experiences now will not only yield edible crop, but will also help me plan better and add new ideas to my dream box.
oh, and I would like to mention that this entire gardening venture was completely unassociated with Michelle Obama's interview on her own gardening plans. I was only informed today that such an article even existed, hence this recent "locavore" movement. Us roomies have been planning this vegetable garden for quite some time now, though I must give props to our First Lady for advocating self-sustaining food, holla! You mah gurl Michelle, you mah GURL!
Friday, March 20, 2009
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
what a trip
if you like awesome, progressive, and innovative animation, watch this. It's pretty crazy. And by crazy, I really mean crazy AWESOME!
you gotta be fucking kidding me!
I'm so annoyed at people right now, argh! >:[ Don't talk to me, don't try to make it better when it's really none of your business, just let me do my thing, and especially don't make things harder!
Monday, March 16, 2009
cooking with chris: gnocchi
one of the perks of dating a (aspiring) chef is free cooking lessons. A more obvious perk would be the delicious food he makes for me, but we've been together long enough that we're past that initial impress phase, and have moved on to educating each other on our interests. At some point, Chris plans to teach cooking classes, so as a precursor to that, he's been teaching me how to cook various dishes. So far, we've covered potato karrokes (croquettes), ravioli made from scratch (pasta too!), homemade lasagna with pink sauce (red + white, mmm), and braising. All of these dishes I made before I started this blog, but now that it's here, I'd like to showcase my culinary progress, starting with last night.
he taught me how to make gnocchi, which, for those who don't know, is definitely one of my absolute favorite dishes. Gnocchi Thursdays will now be the new Taco Tuesdays, hell yes! To make Gnocchi Thursdays happen, here's how you make gnocchi:
Basic Gnocchi (serves 2)
3-4 potatoes
flour
salt
1-2 egg yolks
the first part is easy. It's like your making mashed potatoes. Start boiling some water. Meanwhile, wash, peel, and chop your potatoes. Boil them and add salt to flavor until tender. Drain the potatoes, and mash them up. We use a ricer, but you can also use a mixer or any other type of potato mashing utensil. The key thing is that it has to be mashed to a really smooth consistency.
egg yolks are optional, but according to Chris, they help hold the dough together, so you'd only need about one. We used 2 because I generally like my stuff eggier (omelettes, leche flan, custard, you get the idea). Anyway, add your egg yolks and flour to the potatoes. There should be about one cup of flour per potato. Knead that (and any other spices or salt to flavor) in until you have a nice dough that you can shape.
divide your dough in thirds. Take one of the thirds and lightly flour a flat surface. Roll the potato dough into a long strip about an inch thick (or thinner for gnocchini). Cut into small pieces; I just eyeballed it to form little pillows. Lightly use the tines of a fork to press a little design into each piece of gnocchi, and there you have it! Simple as pie. Trust me, if I can do it, you can.
to cook the gnocchi, boil some water. When the water begins to boil, just add the gnocchi and when it floats, it's done cooking. Ours took about 3 minutes to cook. Add any sauce of your choice on top and some basil. We made a simple red sauce with crushed tomatoes, sauteed onions, garlic, zucchini, salt, and pepper. Ooh, and for an even better taste, before adding the sauce, I'd sautee the cooked gnocchi in some butter! Bon appetit, or what I like to say, Mahlzeit!
he taught me how to make gnocchi, which, for those who don't know, is definitely one of my absolute favorite dishes. Gnocchi Thursdays will now be the new Taco Tuesdays, hell yes! To make Gnocchi Thursdays happen, here's how you make gnocchi:
Basic Gnocchi (serves 2)
3-4 potatoes
flour
salt
1-2 egg yolks
the first part is easy. It's like your making mashed potatoes. Start boiling some water. Meanwhile, wash, peel, and chop your potatoes. Boil them and add salt to flavor until tender. Drain the potatoes, and mash them up. We use a ricer, but you can also use a mixer or any other type of potato mashing utensil. The key thing is that it has to be mashed to a really smooth consistency.
egg yolks are optional, but according to Chris, they help hold the dough together, so you'd only need about one. We used 2 because I generally like my stuff eggier (omelettes, leche flan, custard, you get the idea). Anyway, add your egg yolks and flour to the potatoes. There should be about one cup of flour per potato. Knead that (and any other spices or salt to flavor) in until you have a nice dough that you can shape.
divide your dough in thirds. Take one of the thirds and lightly flour a flat surface. Roll the potato dough into a long strip about an inch thick (or thinner for gnocchini). Cut into small pieces; I just eyeballed it to form little pillows. Lightly use the tines of a fork to press a little design into each piece of gnocchi, and there you have it! Simple as pie. Trust me, if I can do it, you can.
to cook the gnocchi, boil some water. When the water begins to boil, just add the gnocchi and when it floats, it's done cooking. Ours took about 3 minutes to cook. Add any sauce of your choice on top and some basil. We made a simple red sauce with crushed tomatoes, sauteed onions, garlic, zucchini, salt, and pepper. Ooh, and for an even better taste, before adding the sauce, I'd sautee the cooked gnocchi in some butter! Bon appetit, or what I like to say, Mahlzeit!
Saturday, March 14, 2009
maybe i should take this to maury
at what point should one take responsibility for a child or acknowledge that he/she is his/her? I know this sounds like an odd question, but I ask because I got into an interesting debate with a friend on the topic of reproductive cell donation and how one would feel about the idea that little versions of that person are out there.
in lieu of the recession, I'd been joking around about donating my eggs if things ever got that bad. The other day, I was talking about it with my sister and she had told me some more information on it, like how I'm at my prime age for egg donation or how people look at SAT and IQ scores and shit. I brought all this up with aforementioned friend and at some point in the conversation, he asked if I'd feel weird that little me's were out there. Still in jest, I joked that it wouldn't bother me, but that I'd warn my future kids (if I decide to have any) not to marry any Filipinos because he/she could be a potential half-sibling, but then he said he'd feel weird about it, and naturally, the question of "why?" arose.
I was confused why he'd feel weird about it while he seemed surprised that I wouldn't. To be honest, he almost made it seem like I was being heartless toward whatever child might arise from donating my eggs. He was like, "so, if this child looked you up, found you, and went up to you with questions, you'd tell it, 'what? I just needed money". I know he was joking, but it was still a little harsh. It was interesting because he compared this situation to adopted children. Let me remind you, this child would arise from egg/sperm donation. My argument was, on top of the obvious that I am not/would not be this child's parent and that his/her real parents are the ones who raised him/her regardless of biological relationship, that this situation would be nothing like that of an adopted child.
if I gave up a child for adoption, I conceived this child. It came to life inside me, it grew inside me, I nurtured and took care of it in my body for 9 months, and I birthed it. After going through all of that, it's quite understandable why that child would want to know "why?". However, with organ donation, the egg would be fertilized in a lab, outside of my body. Beyond that point, the point in which some would argue that life begins, it will never have touched my body, grown in my body, fed through my body, or birthed by my body. As an unfertilized egg, there exist nothing but a reproductive cell that would get expelled anyway during the whole ovulation process, and thus, life has not been created, life does not exist. So how can I take responsibility for whatever child could be conceived by an egg I would donate? Aside from the genetic factor, I have nothing tying me to this child. And yes, some would say that that biological aspect defines parenthood, but I believe there's so much more to it than simple genetics. Perhaps I'm being heartless toward this child, but I personally feel like there would be absolutely no maternal connection on my part when I had nothing to do with the point that his/her life was created onward.
anyway, my friend never cared to explain his end of the argument. Perhaps I argued my point well enough to get him thinking? Or perhaps he was lazy? Or perhaps he just agreed to disagree. Whatever he decided, it got me to think about the situation more. I mean, the idea of a child of egg/sperm donation wanting to find the donator never seemed like an issue to me, but then I'm not being understanding. Maybe some people do feel that way? For the most part, I still hold my same beliefs, but I'm always open to other's opinions and hearing their thoughts, so I was just wondering how other people feel about the topic? Where do you stand?
in lieu of the recession, I'd been joking around about donating my eggs if things ever got that bad. The other day, I was talking about it with my sister and she had told me some more information on it, like how I'm at my prime age for egg donation or how people look at SAT and IQ scores and shit. I brought all this up with aforementioned friend and at some point in the conversation, he asked if I'd feel weird that little me's were out there. Still in jest, I joked that it wouldn't bother me, but that I'd warn my future kids (if I decide to have any) not to marry any Filipinos because he/she could be a potential half-sibling, but then he said he'd feel weird about it, and naturally, the question of "why?" arose.
I was confused why he'd feel weird about it while he seemed surprised that I wouldn't. To be honest, he almost made it seem like I was being heartless toward whatever child might arise from donating my eggs. He was like, "so, if this child looked you up, found you, and went up to you with questions, you'd tell it, 'what? I just needed money". I know he was joking, but it was still a little harsh. It was interesting because he compared this situation to adopted children. Let me remind you, this child would arise from egg/sperm donation. My argument was, on top of the obvious that I am not/would not be this child's parent and that his/her real parents are the ones who raised him/her regardless of biological relationship, that this situation would be nothing like that of an adopted child.
if I gave up a child for adoption, I conceived this child. It came to life inside me, it grew inside me, I nurtured and took care of it in my body for 9 months, and I birthed it. After going through all of that, it's quite understandable why that child would want to know "why?". However, with organ donation, the egg would be fertilized in a lab, outside of my body. Beyond that point, the point in which some would argue that life begins, it will never have touched my body, grown in my body, fed through my body, or birthed by my body. As an unfertilized egg, there exist nothing but a reproductive cell that would get expelled anyway during the whole ovulation process, and thus, life has not been created, life does not exist. So how can I take responsibility for whatever child could be conceived by an egg I would donate? Aside from the genetic factor, I have nothing tying me to this child. And yes, some would say that that biological aspect defines parenthood, but I believe there's so much more to it than simple genetics. Perhaps I'm being heartless toward this child, but I personally feel like there would be absolutely no maternal connection on my part when I had nothing to do with the point that his/her life was created onward.
anyway, my friend never cared to explain his end of the argument. Perhaps I argued my point well enough to get him thinking? Or perhaps he was lazy? Or perhaps he just agreed to disagree. Whatever he decided, it got me to think about the situation more. I mean, the idea of a child of egg/sperm donation wanting to find the donator never seemed like an issue to me, but then I'm not being understanding. Maybe some people do feel that way? For the most part, I still hold my same beliefs, but I'm always open to other's opinions and hearing their thoughts, so I was just wondering how other people feel about the topic? Where do you stand?
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
wtf?
I just saw a brief interview with David Beckham on ESPN about his future plans, and he mentioned how he was thinking about the 2010 FIFA World Cup. That made me think, wtf?! It's already been almost 4 years since I was in Vienna?! I was there for the last World Cup, which feels like that happened only a year ago. I can't believe that much time has passed, wow!
simple as a pimple
I feel like Chris & I have been on such a roll lately!
we're 2 for 2, yeah!
- last Friday, I got an email from UW's Speech & Hearing Sciences department congratulating me on my acceptance to their postbaccalareate program XD. Because everyone seems to be confused about this program, basically, I want to get my masters in speech-language pathology, but before I can get into a masters program, I have to first complete and get a second Bachelors Degree in S&HS/Communications Disorders since I graduated from a different discipline. Getting into this program is the first big step toward my 5 year plan toward becoming a speech pathologist, so you can only imagine how excited I am to not only work toward something I'm passionate about, but also, something more legit and worth it. Goodbye Starbucks, hello future!
- in the context of getting what you want to work toward something great, my baby also found out this weekend that he got the job he wanted! He left Microsoft to become a personal assistant/chef and tutor to a family of 4. This family is really wealthy too; they own the top private pharmaceutical company in the nation, so they're ballin' to say the least. While his primary duties are to organize and keep everyone on track, he's really excited to be their personal chef (they've got a great kitchen, no surprise, and full creative freedom) and apparently, they host small parties that Chris would cater for! Not only is this an opportunity for him to showcase his talent, but also a great way to network and meet some really important people. Hook up! This job, too, is like the first big step toward his 5 year plan.
to celebrate our recent successes, we went out to the new El Gaucho for dinner last night. What better way to celebrate than with a big, juicy steak, mmm. The service, as expected, was excellent, and the food was even better. We ordered the crab cakes & a caprese salad for appetizers; Chris got the French Rib Chop and I got the Steak El Gaucho; a side of Portobello Mushroom Risotto; and for dessert, we stuck to the complimentary fruit, nut, & cheese plate, which I was really looking forward to! And on top of all this delicious food & a really great evening, our server tipped us off on another place that has an industry night. I'll keep it secret for now until we check it out for ourselves, but that's where we'll be on Sunday ^_~.
steak el gaucho
steak el gauchoFriday, March 6, 2009
i thought you were screaming cuz you knew i was gonna poke you in the butt
last night, Chris & I saw Raphael Saadiq in concert, and he was AMAZING! Admittedly, I had my initial qualms going in. I'm only somewhat familiar with his music, to the point where I enjoy it, but I don't know it well enough to go out of my way to see him in concert. But, Chris got us the tickets (Ray is his homeboy), so I figured, why not?
He performed so well in his yellow suit and his little motown dance numbers. He sang the classics, like "Pillow", as well as some of the new stuff off The Way I See It. The best part: we were at the very front! There were so many times Raphael danced toward our corner, and he even shook our hands. At the end of the performance, we managed to steal one of the song lists from the stage:1. Aquarius INTRO
2. Keep Marching
3. Love That Girl
4. 100 Yard Dash
5. Dance Tonight/La La
6. Just One Kiss
7. Oh Girl
8. Medley
9. Be Here
10. Sure Hope You Mean It
11. Charlie Ray
12. Walk
13. Staying in Love
14. Outro
15. ENCORE / Still Ray
16. ENCORE / Sky
17. ENCORE / Big Easy
2. Keep Marching
3. Love That Girl
4. 100 Yard Dash
5. Dance Tonight/La La
6. Just One Kiss
7. Oh Girl
8. Medley
9. Be Here
10. Sure Hope You Mean It
11. Charlie Ray
12. Walk
13. Staying in Love
14. Outro
15. ENCORE / Still Ray
16. ENCORE / Sky
17. ENCORE / Big Easy
I'm glad I ended up going to the show. Unfortunately, it coincided with wine&pasta night at Tracy's, which I'm sure I would've had fun and I was sad to miss it, but this show was just so great! Chris & I had so much fun, and it was really quite sweet how he brought it up to me. He told me it was a one-year anniversary kinda thing, reminiscent of how we started (our first official "date" was the Kanye West concert about a year ago) ^_^, but in the end, it was decided that whatever one-year type of anniversary we'd celebrate wouldn't be until the time I had come back from Taiwan.
anyway, I digress. Raphael Saadiq was just so smooth, and he's got such great control over his voice. I thought the venue was just the right size for him to interact with his audience. He was really engaging and friendly, and he involved the audience in some of his songs. I'd definitely say it was one of the best shows I've seen, and I'd recommend him to anyone!Thursday, March 5, 2009
tramp-stamp barbie
ok, so it's actually called Totally Stylin' Tattoos Barbie, and really, she's harmless, but you know what Mattell's really encouraging. What's next? Clear heels Barbie? Pole-dancing Barbie? Some assembly required, hahaha!
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
lent
for the sake of my health & my pocketbook, I've decided to give up alcohol for Lent. I don't regret this decision in the slightest. I don't really crave a drink, even socially, and I still have fun at the clubs without being tipsy. Yet, lately, I find that I can't seem to get enough sweets! Anyone who knows me knows that I have quite the sweet tooth, but even I'm surprised at how much I've been eating as of late.
earlier today, for example, I gave in and bought a Top Pot old-fashioned glazed doughnut to eat with my extra chocolately toffee nut hot chocolate. And yesterday, I had a PB&J cupcake from Trophy. I've also been snacking on god knows how many Lindt chocolate balls, and at work, I'm constantly munching on lemon loaves, cinnamon rolls, chocolate chip cookies, and chocolate coated graham crackers. In spite of the cold, I'm even eating ice cream! I'm beginning to fear for my genetic background prone for diabetes ::gulp::. Is my new alcohol-free diet the cause for my sugar cravings? Does one beget the other? Clearly, something needs to change...
why do you hurt so goood? T_T
earlier today, for example, I gave in and bought a Top Pot old-fashioned glazed doughnut to eat with my extra chocolately toffee nut hot chocolate. And yesterday, I had a PB&J cupcake from Trophy. I've also been snacking on god knows how many Lindt chocolate balls, and at work, I'm constantly munching on lemon loaves, cinnamon rolls, chocolate chip cookies, and chocolate coated graham crackers. In spite of the cold, I'm even eating ice cream! I'm beginning to fear for my genetic background prone for diabetes ::gulp::. Is my new alcohol-free diet the cause for my sugar cravings? Does one beget the other? Clearly, something needs to change...
why do you hurt so goood? T_TMonday, March 2, 2009
let's start with...
a meme. Like an ice-breaker of sorts.
20 Things to Think About
1. My ex... toured France, reading his poetry. Pretty cool
2. Maybe I should... be doing something more productive...
3. I love... SHOES!
4. People would say that I... was once a big, black woman in a past life
5. I don't understand why people... lack respect and common courtesy
6. When I wake up in the morning... I hit the snooze button
7. I lost... my "C" necklace :*(
8. Life is full of... laughs
9. My past... is in the past
10. I get annoyed... at stupid people
11. I left... my heart in Switzerland
12. I wish... I had 20/20 vision
13. Dogs... are in my future, hopefully an Alaskan Malamute/St. Bernhard mix
14. Cats... are too
15. Tomorrow... is my day off
16. I have low tolerance for... indecisive customers when there's a line out the door
17. If I had a million dollars... I'd finish school and travel
18. I'm totally terrified... of drowning, but I love the water and swimming!
19. My friends... are pretty bomb
20. (In) My life... could use more cheese
20 Things to Think About
1. My ex... toured France, reading his poetry. Pretty cool
2. Maybe I should... be doing something more productive...
3. I love... SHOES!
4. People would say that I... was once a big, black woman in a past life
5. I don't understand why people... lack respect and common courtesy
6. When I wake up in the morning... I hit the snooze button
7. I lost... my "C" necklace :*(
8. Life is full of... laughs
9. My past... is in the past
10. I get annoyed... at stupid people
11. I left... my heart in Switzerland
12. I wish... I had 20/20 vision
13. Dogs... are in my future, hopefully an Alaskan Malamute/St. Bernhard mix
14. Cats... are too
15. Tomorrow... is my day off
16. I have low tolerance for... indecisive customers when there's a line out the door
17. If I had a million dollars... I'd finish school and travel
18. I'm totally terrified... of drowning, but I love the water and swimming!
19. My friends... are pretty bomb
20. (In) My life... could use more cheese
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