Saturday, October 8, 2011

Need. To. Blog.

So, I've started a new job and am busier than ever. I am really liking this area of the world, though. It's very much like Philly or Baltimore, but with southern charm. Methinks that Garden and Gun was right about this hidden gem.

I have been exploring thrift stores and the plethora of chain, as well as local stores here. Very cool. I also really like a certain small town here where you can get houses (no lie!) at a third of the price as what we saw in MD. Crazy. I was pretty much sold on moving there until we discovered another place. It's what realtors often call a "transitional neighborhood." My mom would call it the slums. Let's split the difference and call it "the arts district." We have to think of safety, schools, etc. but, of course, that is now where L wants to live. It is really cool. I explored the art hop last night and it was very lively. I was out of sorts a little not working or knowing the artists personally, but it was kind of nice to be out and about. I think I'm gonna like it here :-)

So, even though I've got very little down time, I am really feeling the need to be in this space more. Let's see if I can stick to it.

PS: If you don't read Garden and Gun, you should.

Saturday, September 24, 2011

Blog Hiatus

So, a little lull in my blogging...

A lot is going on here in these parts, so it may be a while before I'm back in this space. After moving to Maryland for what I thought was a good opportunity, let's just say it turned out not to be so great. The good news is that I found a great job in Greenville, SC, which has recently been featured on NPR and (more importantly...at least in our house) in Garden and Gun magazine. I think it's a good compromise -- close to W-S, Charleston, Asheville, Charlotte and Atlanta. Oh, and an airport with Southwest service. Not a bad deal. Best thing is that the people I work with/for seem to be great. And the museum is new and growing. I am excited to say I have already run into several people I knew growing up, which is nice.

I promise to be back soon. Until then, carry on....

Sunday, September 11, 2011

Remembering 9/11

It may be trite in the blogosphere at this point, but I feel I must write something to commemorate the events of 9/11/01 even if only to refresh my own memory. So here goes:

I think everyone's memories have begun with how beautiful that day was. I remember getting dressed, wearing black sandals (I'm a southerner and would never do white!) and watching the Today show. I may be imagining it, but I'm fairly sure Katie and/or Matt made a reference about the exceptional weather and the camera panning to the towers. I had interviewed for a job I hoped I would get, as I had just finished my MA and was grateful my supervisors had allowed me to continue my internship in the interim. My job was at the Watergate which, for those of you who aren't familiar with DC, is within viewing distance of the Pentagon and relatively near several government buildings. I was excited about the prospects of working and living in a fun city as a young, hip professional.

I was listening to Elliot in the Morning, a radio show made up of some potty-mouthed jokesters, as I began my daily tasks. My mom, ever the worrier, had called to warn me to get out of the city. After that first plane hit, she suspected terrorists. I assured her it was a prop plane...and an accident. The second plane hit. The mood on the radio turned somber. I was scared. Then the plane hit the Pentagon -- which I could see from the roof of my building -- then another went down in PA. Where was the next one? What should I do? Where should I go? A dear co-worker thankfully walked me all the way to the zoo metro stop, which is at least three miles. I reluctantly got on a train there and then walked the few blocks to my house in Bethesda. My feet were blistered from my sandals, but I didn't realize it until much later. My roommate greeted me at the door with a terrified look on her face, although she was happy I was home. Our dear friend and world traveler had a flight that morning, but Lauren couldn't remember where. With all the phones out, we couldn't get in touch with her. Luckily, Natalie had an early flight and was already on the ground in Chicago.

That day seemed incredibly long. I remember checking on family (my dad was traveling) and friends, even learning that a good friend's husband was safe but his office was gone. Another friend who, thankfully, is not the most punctual was running late that day and didn't make it to towers before they fell. Hard to believe they had nothing to go back to the next day. At least they were safe! I will never foreget the next few days and weeks after the event. We watched as the Pentagon continued to smolder. I always thought about the people who were on 395 as the plane that hit the building must have flown directly overhead. It was surreal to see tanks on the streets of DC. I felt like I was in a movie or a foreign country where martial law is the norm. Totally bizarre.

I didn't get that job. In the next few months, almost all the jobs for which I had applied would go unfilled. Busses could not go into the city and tourism was down. I don't think a lot of people realize how museums and attractions even now continue to be affected by that awful tragedy. I would soon lose several relatives and find myself crying on the train and walk home. I wanted to be anywhere but in the city. I went to NYC a few months later and was amazed by how everyone had joined together and the city was bouncing back. But I didn't want to be in that city, either.

I moved back "home" and have never looked back. I never realized until today, ten years later, how profoundly that one event affected me. I complain all the time how it affected my job prospects and I am still trying to find my footing in this field. But only now am I beginning to see how it changed me. How I remember caring not about buildings or jobs on that day, but wanting to know everyone was safe. I am grateful that all of my friends and family were safe on that day and that my memories were of people coming together, of loved ones watching the news and crying together. I will never forget seeing devastation firsthand or the fear of everyone rushing out of the city on that day. But I will carry with me most my friend walking with me, my roommate hugging me as I walked in the door, chatting with neighbors as we stocked up on provisions, and the feeling of unity in a usually divided city.

In some ways it feels like it was just yesterday. In others, it feels like it was a lifetime ago. While I mourn the lives lost on that day, I also celebrate the spirit of America. What's really sad is that so much of that spirit has disappeared in the last few years. What will it take to get the feelings of love and unity back?

Friday, August 19, 2011

Back to School

I want to start by saying how proud I am of my little boy. He is doing extremely well in speech therapy and at his daycare/preschool. Every day when we ask where he is going, he exictedly says "tool." Ehhh...close enough. He is even counting, learning colors, and saying "please." All this from a boy who barely said two words a few months ago! If he gets through his next urology appointment ok, we will really be thrilled :-)

So, the kids in my home town went back to school this week. I enjoyed seeing all the photos on facebook and reading all the blogs. Seeing kids growing up is really bittersweet. On the other hand....free time for mom! It was especially cute to see photos of little Amelia, as her dad was in my kindergarten class. How time flies....

It seems like just yesterday I was picking a new outfuit and eating french toast on my first day of school. Oh wait...I went to school until I was 28. That wasn't so long ago -- haha.

On Sunday night, I also got another crack at a tradition my big brother started when I was little. For those of you not in the know, my siblings are 9, 10, and 12 years older. Being the oldest, my brother thought it was funny to come in the night before the first day and sing "turn out the lights....the party's over now" to us. He continued to do this as he went to college, then as we all went through college and grad school. So, of course, I now do it for my young nieces and nephews. It's always really fun to hear their groans and/or excitement. This year, they are starting in grades 3, 7, 8, and 10. It won't be long before Sully goes to big "tool" and I will laugh, cry or a little of both.

Good luck on a great year to all the kids, moms, and teachers out there!

Friday, August 12, 2011

Free?

I've had a pretty darn challenging week, but I don't want to talk about that here. I am really trying to stay positive in this space. I do want to bring attention to something that I've noticed lately that I want to offer as a PSA. So here goes...

Nobody loves cheapies and freebies more than this girl. If you know me at all, you have likely asked where I got what I was wearing and heard one of two responses -- thrift store or free box. I don't like to pay a ton of money for things. I do, however, value certain things. Like good service and buying local. I am willing to pay a little extra if I believe in my purchase. Yes, you read that correctly. Since I have worked in the museum field for about 15 years now, I really value the preservation of historic sites and good quality experiences. Most people in museums work for little or no pay. Museums and arts venues/programs are often the first things to get cut from budgets. And while I understand such things from a political and economic POV, I still don't like to see cultural resources neglected. Quite simply, we can't get things back once they are destroyed. Also, everyone enjoy these forms of "edutainment" (for lack of a better term) but people often aren't as quick to support them.

So, where am I going with this? Oh yeah. If you like the free music in the park, or the free museum admission, please "put your money where your mouth is." BTW, museums like the Smithsonian are NOT free. You pay dearly with your tax dollars. Nobody wants to pay more taxes, but how do you think those places run? Also, everyone wants to have free admission to places. Trust me, most museum people I know are pretty populist and would like nothing more than open the doors. The reality is, however, that we're already working with a slim budget and we have to eat, too. So, it's wonderful to take advantage of coupons or special discounted admission days. But, why not buy a membership or a something from the gift shop?

So, there you have it. The queen of bargains is telling you to go spend extra money on valuable cultural resources. Besides, when you consider the prices of movie tickets, pedicures, etc., maintaining these precious gems in our society is a real bargain. So, next time you pass the donation box at a "free" site why not pay to help keep it free, to keep the doors open, and maybe even to keep the place standing? Your arts, historical and cultural sites depend on and APPRECIATE your support.

Now, go out and enjoy your weekend. And if you choose to visit one of these great places on a weekend or holiday, please be pleasant to the staff who are giving up their holiday to accommodate visitors.

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

Blogs, blogs and more blogs

With all the crappiness going on in my life for the past few years, I'm amazed I've been able to laugh a bunch of it off and keep my head held high. It is helpful when you have an adorable little munchkin to make you smile. Reading blogs and now starting this one has been helpful. I was reluctant to do either at first, because I really didn't want to get sucked into "mommy blogging." Besides, the selection of blogs is pretty darn overwhelming! My problem with typical mommy bloggers is that they come across as whiney. I do not want to hear about how gosh darn awful it is to stay home with your kids. I loved being home for the way-too-short time I was with my boy, but it just wasn't in the cards for us. And if it's such a bad situation, why not quit like you would any bad job? It's certainly not for the pay or perks. So, I've limited myself to people I actually know and/or people who feature their life as a mom, with it's ups and downs, but more as a joy and challenge. I have even turned away from blogs that others have told me are "hysterical" because, simply put, they are not. I tend to be more amused by wit and subtle "British-style" humor. In-your-face attempts at humor, like recent sitcoms and SNL, simply do not bowl me over. They simply come across as trying too hard. That's why I prefer and have chosen to be a "mom who blogs" instead.

Today I read a blog that I recently started following that had something good to say. Referencing the book _Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action_, she talked about how too often we focus on the “what” we want to achieve without figuring out “why” first. But if you first have the “why” firmly in place it will guide all the decisions you make and allow you to stay on your true path. Sounds simplistic but it really is true. I have been feeling this way a lot lately, trying to make the big decision about where I want to go from here. Do I want to stay in my field, even if it means moving someplace that is not my choice? Or do I move to where I want to be and do something totally different? I need to start focusing on the WHY!! Maybe that will lead me to where I want and need to be. I also used to do something that I borrowed from a former co-worker that has been sorely missed in my life. Every day she simply made a list. Two lists actually. One was easy -- "To Do." The other, not so much. "Ta Da." Yes, a daily reminder of something good for the day. Why is it so much easier to identify things that need to be done and much more difficult to scrounge up at least one good thing about the day? So, I have made it a goal to revive these daily lists.

Back to the topic of blogs... (BTW, I think the article I read about motherhood ADHD is accurate!) I have also been really enlightened and snapped into realizing how lucky I am by reading some blogs. Really, even with some health concerns, I have a beautful healthy child. I have been moved to tears by stories of heartache over sick and deceased children. My mom was widowed (with three kids) at 21 and always remained close to her late husband's family. She always said it must be the hardest thing in the world to lose a child. After reading so many stories, I must agree. So, I have become increasingly grateful for a little boy that came into the world on his own terms and has forced me to embrace his stubbornness.

Before I go off to make a list for today, I have to share one thing. I completely forgot about one of the things that drives me mad in my pet peeve list. If I want to make a cup of tea, I boil just enough water. For some reason my husband and mom (who are terribly alike and dirve each other and me crazy because of it) will boil a whole kettle of water. It is irritating because, of course, it only means you must wait even longer for the dang water to boil. Aaaaand -- there's always an and if I get really gripy -- I have to pour out a whole stinkin' pot of water the next time I use the kettle. I don't know why I find that simple action so frustrating. I just do ok? Why? Because I'm the mommy. Just not a "mommy blogger!"

Monday, August 8, 2011

Life and Death

I attended a lecture this morning about gravestones. It was a strange day to do so, as I have recently been inundated by thoughts of death. There is the "body count," the nickname I have given to the Baltimore newscast, and various other brutal killings on the national news. Seeing photos of the Navy SEALS that perished....heroes who died valiantly defending our freedom...left me with a sadness, but at least with the consolation that they died proud. I also learned of the death of one of my classmates over the weekend. I didn't know him well, but I do remember him as a cool guy. A guy whose life should not have ended in a bar fight. There was also the terrible news that another classmate of mine took his own life recently, leaving behind a beautiful family. Oh, and how I can I forget the abundance of posts on the memorial facebook page from my high school. Just sad.

Then there's life. My life has been pretty topsy turvy lately. I still feel like I am doing my best to get going and stay going. Looking for stability, which has eluded me the past few years. Wondering if I have made the right decisions. Trying not to have regrets. Trying to be thankful for the good things. I have a lot going on right now. Work, toddler, a trip out West, and (of course) trying to figure it out what to do next.

I am struggling with whether it is a good idea to go out West. The reality is, though, that I need it. I need some mountain air. I need some clarity. I'll regret it if I don't. Ugh. Why is life so hard? Can't complain, though. It's better than death.

Thursday, August 4, 2011

Is the Universe a Little Off?

So, this past week has been some kind of crazy. My mom is visiting, which has thrown our schedule just a litle bit off. Aside from that, it has jst seemed like everything is a bit weird. Like our car deciding to die over the weekend, L replacing the part, it not working, then we thought it was working, but then it died. On the way to work. In the middle of the road on a day when it seemed like the traffic report took up more of the news than Casey Anthony's whereabouts, the blasted heat and the debt crisis put together. We did manage to get it outta the way (thanks to some nice MPs -- it was near a Naval Academy gate) and is now being fixed. Things have also been weird at work. Some really fun stuff, some really frustrating stuff, but just some weird. Like nobody coming in during the day and then a rush at closing time. Like I said, just a little off-kilter.

Needless to say, with all this weirdness, I haven't had much time to check in here. So, it will be my goal for the next few weeks. We will soon head out on our annual trek out West, so that should give me something to look forward to...or stress about...or both. We shall see.

Take care and stay cool, everyone!

Friday, July 29, 2011

Things that make you go hmmmm...

So, last night I attended an alumni event for my undergrad. It was a nice event, but it did leave me thinking. Overthinking, probably. And I left stone cold sober. Why, you ask? Well, because I am frugal. And because it's my form of civil disobedience. To protest the ridiculous hike in the alcohol tax in this state. Anyway, that was NOT the point of this post.

First, it was a well-attended event. St Mary's people are so awesome. I loved that the new president talked about The Pub opening on campus. Yes, we have a pub and that's exactly what it is called. We don't need any stinkin' hyperbole at SMCM. The Pub will suffice and it states exactly what kind of establishment it is, thankyouverymuch. See, St Mary's is an interestesting place. Full of history, academically challenging, free thinking, progressive, crunchy and highly regarded. Most students can be found barefoot, carrying a frisbee, high/drunk, protesting, but always keeping up with schoolwoork. I LOVED my time there. For once, I actually fit in, which was tough to do at my huge high school. I also did not need to be preppy, country, punk, or whatever. Just being me was fine. Accepted. Respected. Appreciated.

Then, why did I find myself doubting myself. I felt a little strange. Kinda like I did when I transferred from CofC. Like an outsider. I also feel like I have struggled with my career and personaly choices for quite some time. Most SMCM people marry a classmate, go to grad/prof school, settle down. Not me. I went to grad school (twice) but eloped with someone twice my age in another state. Not the same path as the people there. I was wowed by an old professor that I only encountered to sign off on some paperwork when he was the acting provost about 15 years ago. Gosh darn it if he didn't remember me. Like really. He remembered my major, focus of study, etc. Weird. But that's SMCM. I remember being on a first name basis with the dean, being a campus leader, graduating Phi Beta Kappa. But did I miss out on things? I remember striving to hear Summa Cum Laude after my name. I got it, but at what expense? I skipped parties, preferring to study. Would my experience have been more memorable if I had been more sociable?

As much as I was friendly and outgoing in college, I did not keep in touch with friends. Granted a lot was because they were not people I had grown up with and I broke up with the "college boyfriend" soon after. I guess I just left feeling a little disjointed. Like I did not fit in with anyone. Oh, brother. Not that feeling.

The last few years have been pretty tough. I remember never wanting to leave St Mary's yet, after a couple years, I feel like I don't really belong. Am I just remembering all the good things? The sunsets, the water, traditions, having class outside, fun professors...Was it not as fantastic as I remember? Now that I have been gone from NC for a few years, I find myself doing everything in my power to return. If I don't, will I someday find that I don't fit in there either? Or, is that where I am destined to be?

Maybe I just need a drink.



St Mary's College of Maryland


Wednesday, July 27, 2011

Pennies from Heaven?

I don't know if anyone reads advice columns, but people have often written about "pennies from heaven." People who believe in such things, believe that these are messages sent from loved ones who have passed away. I sometimes see cardinals, my Aunt Mary's favorite bird, and am certian she is trying to tell me something. Well, yesterday I found three pennies in totally different places throughout the day. Is someone trying to tell me something?

I haven't been very open about things in this space, but hopefully I will have more evidence of positive change to share in the near future. As if finding random pennies isn't evidence enough of something on the horizon? Speaking of safe spaces and positive change, I am happy to report that I have found a sanctuary here in Annapolis. Similar to Body of Santa Fe, my beloved Spirit Moves, and the beautiful yet short-lived Branches, I have found a safe place to dance, center, find my and just.....be. This place and my favorite thrift store in DC have really made living here bearable.

I am also happy to report that Sullivan is thriving. His speech continues to improve and I am constantly awed by his demeanor. Such a sweetie. And fine motor skills like nobody's business. Check out the little man in the photos below. More soon.


He'd rather look at vacs than toys!


Always making new friends

Sully loves Ikea meatballs!


 




Wednesday, July 20, 2011

Justice for Henry Granju

I haven't yet "gone public" with this blog yet, mostly using at as an escape from the stress of life, but yesterday was one of those days that I really want everyone to know what I'm saying. Will I bite the bullet and share it via facebook? Not sure yet, but I know I have something to say today.

I had an awful day yesterday. Bad day at work, then found out -- once I got there -- that my dance class had been canceled. The one I look forward to every week. GRRRRR! I also went home to a grump toddler who picked last night to wake up with a night terror. Just bad all the way around. Still, none of this was the really bad part. See, I embraced the awfulness of the day and even kissed my little boy in the midst of his screaming. Because he was there. And I am glad.

My friend Katie (well, we've not yet met but I feel like we'll get along famously when that happens) posted something on her blog. She can be found over at mamapundit.com. Except, unfortunately, she can also be found over at justiceforhenry.com. I say unfortunately, not because what she is doing isn't incredible for all the people she's helping. Rather, it is incredibly tragic and awful that she has to put her own time into fighting for justice rather than just grieving the loss of her beloved son. She has gone through what no mother should have to endure and yet some people just seem to want her to hurt even more. And, to use a word that even I despise, it sucks. Or, as my Aunt Mary (God rest her soul) would say, it's putrid. 

Katie shared that Henry's case has been closed by law enforcement after an "extensive investigation." One in which most of the witnesses and even the victim was never interviewed. I'll leave it to you to follow all the detective work she is done to help solve her son's homicide and let you draw your own conlusions. Maybe you'll disagree. I can't see how anyone wouldn't think this case is fodder for an investigate reporting show. It is truly unbelievable.

I know there are some of you that think Henry deserved what he got (Lord knows there are hundreds on newspaper comment sections). I tend to be a libertarian who believes in a more sensible drug policy, but there is so much more to this story. And Katie has been more than willing to share Henry's struggles with addiction and even point out that he took responsibility for his actions. That's not what this is about. It's about criminals who took advantage of someone who was incapacitated and did not get him the help he needed. They should at least get as much time as Casey Anthony was given (that's another story).

I am extremely lucky that I did not end up on the same path as Henry. I come from a long line of addicts -- nicotine and alcohol on my maternal side, hard and prescription drugs on the paternal -- but I was fortunate enough to have a strong will and loved ones who helped protect me from them. In Henry's case, he had that, too, but even his loving family couldn't save him. Addiction is that strong. My heart aches for Katie, knowing that she has to be thinking "what more could I have done."

Katie did her best. Even making the difficult decision to take a "tough love" approach. Nobody can bring Henry back. The most we can do now is honor his memory, what his family has done with Henry's Fund to help others battling addiction, and find justice for him so that other moms don't have to go through what Katie is facing.

And last, but not least, never miss a chance to tell your babies that you love them. I'll be hugging my boy extra tight tonight and thinking of a mama who will never get that chance again. Come on Knox County law enforcement, get it together and provide Justice for Henry Granju.

Tuesday, July 19, 2011

First Sleepover Friend

So, Sully had his first sleepover on Saturday. Our good friends, Doug and Jules, came down from Philly with their adorable son, Edan. They were actually the first people who we told we were expecting, as we were staying with them and I didn't want them to think I was terribly ill from the morning/all-day sickness I was experiencing. Doug and Jules called a few months later with the exciting news that Sully would have an instant best buddy, due just one month after he was to enter the world. Well, Sully was a little too excited to join us and Edan was apparently very cozy in the womb. So, they are actually two months apart. I was very proud of my Sully. He is a very good friend. He shared all his toys and was very sweet to his guests. He is not talking as much as his friend, but he is still learning.

Sully also, unfortunately, came down with a nasty virus. I hate having a sick boy. As a mom, I just feel so helpless. I must say, though, I enjoyed having some time to get things done while he was resting. Is that terrible? I am glad, though, that he is back to his old self...for better or worse. It was also a bad time for me because it really made me miss my Aunt Mary. When I was little, my mom would always call Aunt Mary to ask for advice. My first instinct when I felt his hot little forehead was to call her. Yes, I did have a little chat with her when I went out to walk Jasper. To quote the country song: "If heaven wasn't so far away...."

Edan and Sully 

Friday, July 15, 2011

Delayed Reactions

I have, for many reasons, been incredibly busy the last few weeks and have not been able to blog. Hopefully soon I can catch up and post some of the exciting things that have been happening. In the meantime, I came to a strange realization today. I seem to always discover things just as they are being discontinued. I've never been much of a trendsetter or even follower, but I hate stumbling upon things just as they are making an exit.

I am already not looking forward to not having the excitement and...let's face it...eye candy from Lie to Me and Human Target next season. I hate thay I was left hanging on The Unit and Without a Trace. And American Dreams? The best show on TV. All canceled. Meanwhile, crap like Jersey Shore and ridiculous reality TV shows are still popular.

The latest example is a chai latte creamer. I like a good chai every now and then and I found that Coffee-Mate makes it. Or, more accurately, MADE it. Yep, bought some discounted (with coupon) with the label "LAST CHANCE" staring at me. This is, in fact, my second experience with discontinued chai. The first was Harris-Teeter's exceptional decaf sugar-free version.

I could go on, but I think I'll stop here. I need to get out and do some things before I miss them.

Happy Weekend!

Monday, June 27, 2011

A quickie

I wrote a longish post, only to have it gobbled up into cyberspace. So here's a quickie...

I need to get outta the negative and into the positive, but I can't believe I forgot to tell you the big pet peeve that started the whole thing. I really can't stand it when people get gas and then leave their car parked at the pump. Please, pull into a parking space!

Other pet peeves: when food tables are not set up for people to walk on both sides and when an organizations website does not include a staff list. Both unnecessary time wasters.

Lastly, for the love of God people, alumni is plural. For females, it is alumnae. They are the plural of alumnus and alumna, respectively. I was at UMCP for an event when I heard someone express their pleasure that Larry David had graduated from UM. He was so excited that he wanted to give $, even though he was"not an alumni." I bet the English department there is letting out a collective sigh a relief.

Have a good week, y'all!

Wednesday, June 22, 2011

Pet Peeves, Part Two

In the few short months I've lived in Annapolis, I think I've experienced every major pet peeve I have. Let me just get through a few.

1. Please don't block the sidewalk. I like to walk my boy and dog. I don't like being forced onto the street so that you can park your car or ride your bike. Yes, I'm the mom who scolds kids for riding their bike on the sidewalk. Read your bike laws, folks. And what's up with the sidewalks that end? I love Shel Silverstein as much as the next gal, but what are people s'pose to do with strollers or, heaven forbid, wheelchairs? Also, if you want to stroll and chat with your friend, do not walk side-by-side and take up the whole stinkin' sidewalk. Oh, and if you choose to wear uncomfortable footwear, please step aside and let people who wear sensible shoes pass.

1B. Do NOT block my driveway. Yes, my godawful neighbors park head-in (which is technically illegal). Not to mention there are often 7 (count 'em SEV-EN) cars, so I can't pull directly out of my driveway. Eek.

2. Why can people not understand traffic circles and four-way stops? I think this may deserve it's own post on another day.

3. I sometimes wish I could go to that magical place where people who do not let you merge think you are going. Hang up and drive, folks.

4. If I am in a crosswalk, I have the law and common sense on my side. Stop. I promise to walk briskly. If you want to cross the street, please do so in a crosswalk. I'll stop for you -- I'm not nuts -- but I would rather not have someone rear end me in the process.

5. I'm not exactly the grammar police and I completely understand that the times are a changin', but there are some things that just grate my nerves. I know you are trying to sound intelligent, but sometimes "and me" is correct. Remember it this way: would you say "I" did (blank) or "me" did (blank)? I also remember a day when our Waffle House waitress corrected her co-worker for saying that she was "conversating." You go, girl. Don't even get me started about people asking where something is at. It works for Beck, but not in general conversation. You know, in the act of CONVERSING.

All right, enough of that. More soon.

Sunday, June 12, 2011

Pet Peeves, Part 1

I don't consider myself a witty person. Well, maybe in a British comedy sorta way. I do, however, occasionally get a few likes and comments on my facebook statuses. Most of them are stolen from my friend Maggie and directed at my sister Rene. I really need to get those two together, as they have always reminded me of each other. Anyway, I digress.

The statuses that have gotten a lot of comments have been those about my pet peeves. I don't really have a lot of them, but the ones I have are strong. They have gotten a lot stronger being here in the North. Yes, sorry folks, but Maryland is the North to me. I plan to put together a definitive list, but I thought I'd stick to the ones that occur in my own house for this post.

1. Why do I always feel like I have to mop up the sink and floor after my husband washes dishes or gets ready in the morning? How do I manage to accomplish these activities without creating a puddle?

2. Why am I the one who has to get S ready to go somewhere? My husband, who takes about 5 minutes to get ready, will actually sleep in or do something else why I get myself, the dog, and the boy ready for wherever it is we're going. I think this is carried over from when I stayed home with S. Anyway, it drives me bonkers.

3. Does it really take that much more energy to throw dirty clothes in the hamper than it does to toss them on the floor?

4. When it's summer, I tend to dress for the weather -- shorts, tanks, sandals. My husband, who is already hot natured, will wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts. Then he wants to blast the AC in the house and car. So, I spend most of the summer wrapped up in a blanket and jacket.

5. Yes, I know I have a strange habit of freezing almost everything. It goes back to being single and not wanting things to go bad. My husband thinks it's weird, but I did explain that it is best to put things in the fridge when it is hot and humid. I think he finally believed me when we spent way too much time last weekend tossing out moldy bread and getting rid of fruit flies.

Ok, that's enough for now. More later.

Monday, June 6, 2011

Let's get it started

Ok, so I've jumped on the blog bandwagon. Where to begin? I'll save all the juicy bits for later, but first want to do some "about me" stuff to get started. Here are ten random factoids:

1. I am the queen of random factoids. People who are around me long enough tend to know that. I am also a natural concierge. I may not know a lot about X, but I can get you to the person who does. The fact that I do museum interpretation and visitor services is directly due to these talents.

2. I'm good at darts. And bowling.

3. I am a trained storm spotter. Not to be confused with a storm chaser. I, along with my friend Christine, call into the "batphone" to report weather phenomena.

4. When I was small, I wanted to be a newscaster when I grew up...like Connie Chung. Funny, now my husband has a crush on Anne Curry. I also used to give tours of my hometown to visiting relatives (see point #1).

5. I don't like raisins or dried fruit in general. Or coconut. Something about the texture.

6. I should've been a city planner.

7. I had a lot of names planned for my future children that my parents thought were weird. I think they're happy with my choice for my son's name, although it is still not common.

8. I think my eyebrows are my best feature.

9. My favorite state is Iowa and my favorite president is Calvin Coolidge. Don't ask why unless you want a really long explanation.

10. I like to watch Cops and other true crime shows. I blame this on my Granny, since she always had a police scanner on when I visited her house.

So, folks, what else would you like to know?