Is there nothing worse than sitting in a Human Tupperware (office building) looking out the window at a sunny warm day? And knowing you are stuck there for 4 more hours? Someone is metaphorically putting bamboo under my fingernails this afternoon. I just want to go outside and play! Maybe come down with the Friday Flu? I'm feeling sick already...
-K
Thursday, June 28, 2007
Friday, June 22, 2007
Costa Rica pix
I've finally been able to post some pix from my Costa Rican vacation...since I have broke ass dial up at home, it was necessary to copy them to disk and bring 'em to work. The above file is of the bay we stayed on.
Here is a picture of the Roaming Pack of Cows enjoying a little beach time:
And, for Animal, a picture of the most ugly flower in the rain forest:
Arenal Volcano blowing off some steam:
And the Howler Monkey losing his shit at the truck driver:
Catalina Island:
And the Costa Rican Crabman:
Enjoy the tourist stuff...I'll try to post the "pro" pix sometime soon!
-K
Monday, June 18, 2007
First Race Cherry is Popped! News at 11....
Or now. News now!
My first race was both exhilerating and disappointing, and both in a good way! The Race for the Cure is definately one that focuses on the bigger "Walker" group, so I did feel a bit like an after-thought in the race lineup. I think the construction on Woodward probably contributed to that, as the guys were laying rebar down about 20 feet from where I was streching out. Also, the running group was so big that it took a good 6 minutes after the "start" for me to cross the start line (and dodge the confused walkers that had stumbled in to the running corral).
But, on to the positive. Once I got on my way, it was relatively easy to keep my pace. I only had to shout "On the right!" one time at a gal that had stopped running and was doing the Wandering Walker thing. I did have to take a walk break about 1.6 miles into it, mostly b/c I'm sure my pace was a bit faster than usual due to the excitement of it all.
I do know one thing...running that last mile and crossing the finish line was fantastic! My legs felt like I had just started the race as there were more people cheering us on in that last mile. And, since my family and coworkers were still busy walking the route, I had no one to greet at the end. So I grabbed my cell from my water pack and called Mr. Gravity to tell him I had finished! Thank you, best friend/husband, for supporting my quest to get in shape and do this race. You truly inspire me to keep going!
So...any ideas for another race in August? No, Mike...no CRIM!
-K
My first race was both exhilerating and disappointing, and both in a good way! The Race for the Cure is definately one that focuses on the bigger "Walker" group, so I did feel a bit like an after-thought in the race lineup. I think the construction on Woodward probably contributed to that, as the guys were laying rebar down about 20 feet from where I was streching out. Also, the running group was so big that it took a good 6 minutes after the "start" for me to cross the start line (and dodge the confused walkers that had stumbled in to the running corral).
But, on to the positive. Once I got on my way, it was relatively easy to keep my pace. I only had to shout "On the right!" one time at a gal that had stopped running and was doing the Wandering Walker thing. I did have to take a walk break about 1.6 miles into it, mostly b/c I'm sure my pace was a bit faster than usual due to the excitement of it all.
I do know one thing...running that last mile and crossing the finish line was fantastic! My legs felt like I had just started the race as there were more people cheering us on in that last mile. And, since my family and coworkers were still busy walking the route, I had no one to greet at the end. So I grabbed my cell from my water pack and called Mr. Gravity to tell him I had finished! Thank you, best friend/husband, for supporting my quest to get in shape and do this race. You truly inspire me to keep going!
So...any ideas for another race in August? No, Mike...no CRIM!
-K
Thursday, June 14, 2007
A New First
Didn't think an old dog could learn new tricks? I'm living proof that is wrong. I am, at the ripe old age of 36, running my first 5K this Saturday. I've always had a love/hate relationship with excercise in general and a struggle with my weight all my life, but I think I've found my calling. This has been a challenge for me, and I've been working at it since about mid-February.
I think I caught the running bug when I ran my first mile on my 36th birthday this past February 24. I know, some of you out there can run (many) circles around me. But this mile was a great achievement for me! It was some mental barrier that was set in my mind, and I broke it on a day that usually signifies slowing down. Love it!
Well, now that mile really isn't a big deal for me anymore. I'm not intimidated by running 3 miles, even. So I'm truly geeked out and excited for Saturday's race. For those of you not familiar with Race for the Cure, it is a wonderful place to start if you want to get active in the fight against breast cancer.
I've been participating in Race for the Cure for the past 13 years and have watched it grow from 1,500 participants to the 40,000+ that it is today. It is a day of fun and of tears, hope and sadness. To see whole families walking with "In Memory of my Wife" or "In Memory of my Mom" on their signs makes you want to weep (I'm getting choked up just typing it). On the other hand, to see hundreds of pink caps designating the survivors of this disease and the thousands of signs that say "In Celebration of my..." is a great thing, too. I walk in celebration of my sister, who has survived her bout of breast cancer at the age of 32. Yes, even you young women out there need to check your boobies regularly!
So this weekend will be a great way to kick off a long (I hope) love of running and being in shape. I want to thank Mike P for getting me started and motivating me to continue to improve. 10K in August, anyone?
-K
I think I caught the running bug when I ran my first mile on my 36th birthday this past February 24. I know, some of you out there can run (many) circles around me. But this mile was a great achievement for me! It was some mental barrier that was set in my mind, and I broke it on a day that usually signifies slowing down. Love it!
Well, now that mile really isn't a big deal for me anymore. I'm not intimidated by running 3 miles, even. So I'm truly geeked out and excited for Saturday's race. For those of you not familiar with Race for the Cure, it is a wonderful place to start if you want to get active in the fight against breast cancer.
I've been participating in Race for the Cure for the past 13 years and have watched it grow from 1,500 participants to the 40,000+ that it is today. It is a day of fun and of tears, hope and sadness. To see whole families walking with "In Memory of my Wife" or "In Memory of my Mom" on their signs makes you want to weep (I'm getting choked up just typing it). On the other hand, to see hundreds of pink caps designating the survivors of this disease and the thousands of signs that say "In Celebration of my..." is a great thing, too. I walk in celebration of my sister, who has survived her bout of breast cancer at the age of 32. Yes, even you young women out there need to check your boobies regularly!
So this weekend will be a great way to kick off a long (I hope) love of running and being in shape. I want to thank Mike P for getting me started and motivating me to continue to improve. 10K in August, anyone?
-K
Friday, June 08, 2007
Hot Damn!
Well, I promised a story about the howler monkeys losing their shit over the truck parked at the side of the road in Playa de Potrero, but I've gotta comment first on two things I read this morning:
1) Grey's Anatomy does not renew Isaiah Washington's contract for next season - Holy Shit! You mean the PC Police actually work for more than one or two groups now? They actually stick up for gays as well? I thought I'd never see the day. Figured that gays would stay second class citizens along with most Asian people for the rest of my existence. I think the situation really need'nt be looked at as a "gay issue". It boils down to having a disruptive employee in the work environment. I would assume if I would call my coworker a derogatory slur and started a fist fight with another, I would be fired. Probably a lot quicker than he was. I would think working on that set between the time of the incident and now had to have been a difficult place to work and be creative, that's for sure. Good for you, powers that be on Grays!
2) Paris Hilton will be put back in jail - this is the one I really like. Because she is white, rich and young means she only has to spend 3 of her 23 day sentence in jail?!? Like hell! And apparently the LA district attorney agrees with me, b/c he is hauling her ass back to court today by her hair extensions and trying his damndest to put that shit back behind bars. The sheriff's office claims it was due to a "medical emergency", but the smutty word in cyberspace is she had a raging herpes outbreak brought on by stress and needed medical attention. Send that dirty poon to the medical ward, damn it! I hope they make an example of her for other celeb-u-tards out there that think they can drive drunk, crash their cars, drive the wrong way down the freeway and drink underage and there are no penalties; no consequences for this. HAHAHAHAHAHA!
Ok, got that out. Back to the regular blogging soon...Happy Friday!
-K
1) Grey's Anatomy does not renew Isaiah Washington's contract for next season - Holy Shit! You mean the PC Police actually work for more than one or two groups now? They actually stick up for gays as well? I thought I'd never see the day. Figured that gays would stay second class citizens along with most Asian people for the rest of my existence. I think the situation really need'nt be looked at as a "gay issue". It boils down to having a disruptive employee in the work environment. I would assume if I would call my coworker a derogatory slur and started a fist fight with another, I would be fired. Probably a lot quicker than he was. I would think working on that set between the time of the incident and now had to have been a difficult place to work and be creative, that's for sure. Good for you, powers that be on Grays!
2) Paris Hilton will be put back in jail - this is the one I really like. Because she is white, rich and young means she only has to spend 3 of her 23 day sentence in jail?!? Like hell! And apparently the LA district attorney agrees with me, b/c he is hauling her ass back to court today by her hair extensions and trying his damndest to put that shit back behind bars. The sheriff's office claims it was due to a "medical emergency", but the smutty word in cyberspace is she had a raging herpes outbreak brought on by stress and needed medical attention. Send that dirty poon to the medical ward, damn it! I hope they make an example of her for other celeb-u-tards out there that think they can drive drunk, crash their cars, drive the wrong way down the freeway and drink underage and there are no penalties; no consequences for this. HAHAHAHAHAHA!
Ok, got that out. Back to the regular blogging soon...Happy Friday!
-K
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Costa Rica, Part 2
As promised: Arenal, howling monkeys and The General!
We took a day trip to see Costa Rica's Arenal volcano. There are several volcanos in CR, but this is one of the only active ones they have. It was a long drive there (about 3.5 hours), but along the way we stopped at an animal rescue reserve. Nice facilities, and it was nice to see a place that would care for injured animals. We ran into the tourist group from HELL there, however. A bunch of 50-something chickens from Des Moines (or something like that) dressed in capri pants and visor hats talking at the top of their lungs, scaring the shit out of every animal in there. At one point, my flash accidently went off on my camera and one of the chickens yells at the top of her lungs "No Flash! No Flash!". I just continued my quiet conversation with Mr. COG and ignored her. This prompts the chicken to say (again, very LOUDLY) "Does she speak English?". Not in a way that was rude (other than it was LOUD) but I successfully stumped her as to whether I was from an English speaking country. Good. That way my continuing to ignore her wasn't a problem, and it wasn't necessary for me to give her the What For in front of God and everyone.
After this somewhat pleasant stop, we made our way up the mountain. And up, and up, and up. About halfway there, we stopped for a nice lunch at a roadside restaurant at Lake Arenal. The lake is partly man made, and the area is rural and charming.
Finally, we reached the top. Of course, this being a rain forest, it was raining. Fortunately, my $3.99 plastic poncho came in handy at this moment. Except hiking in a plastic poncho is a lot like hiking with a giant Ziplock on. VERY hot and sticky, especially hiking up a gazillion steps in high altitude (I don't do altitude well). But the huffing and puffing were worth it, because at the top of the trail was an amazing view of the volcano. The top was visible (I'm told this isn't always the case) and while we were there, it rumbled and smoke poofed (technical vulcan term) out the top. Very cool!
Once we finished our hike, we went to a hot springs spa. They had about 8 or so pools of varying temperatures to lounge around in. Temps ranged from 86F to 116F. I opted out of the 116F pool because I like my own meat to stay rare, thank you. I particularly liked the pool that you could belly up to the bar and have an Imperial. We also ate a wonderful buffet dinner here.
After dinner (and the sun had set), we took a ride to the side of the volcano that was erupting. We were able to see the lava rolling down the mountain on the SE side. What a great sight! I've never seen lava in person and even though it was far away, it was still a sight to see! Once we had our fill of checking out the lava, we started to head back home. The drive took about 3 hours back, and thanks to our tour guide Johann for barreling down that mountain as fast as he could to get us home. I know his driving caused concern for some in our group, but I know he's driven that road more than a million times so I think we were in good hands.
The next morning, after my shower, I was looking out our patio door at something in the trees. At first I thought it was a howler monkey due to the size, almost 2 meters long. It moved positions and I got a better look. Instead of a monkey, it was an iguana! The biggest iguana I'd ever seen! With a giant spiney mohawk down it's back! Holy Crap! Since we had several other small iguanas in the area, I decided to nickname him The General. I'm sure he is the Iguana King of Potrero!
Well, the story of the howler monkeys will have to fall to part 3...I'm out!
-K
We took a day trip to see Costa Rica's Arenal volcano. There are several volcanos in CR, but this is one of the only active ones they have. It was a long drive there (about 3.5 hours), but along the way we stopped at an animal rescue reserve. Nice facilities, and it was nice to see a place that would care for injured animals. We ran into the tourist group from HELL there, however. A bunch of 50-something chickens from Des Moines (or something like that) dressed in capri pants and visor hats talking at the top of their lungs, scaring the shit out of every animal in there. At one point, my flash accidently went off on my camera and one of the chickens yells at the top of her lungs "No Flash! No Flash!". I just continued my quiet conversation with Mr. COG and ignored her. This prompts the chicken to say (again, very LOUDLY) "Does she speak English?". Not in a way that was rude (other than it was LOUD) but I successfully stumped her as to whether I was from an English speaking country. Good. That way my continuing to ignore her wasn't a problem, and it wasn't necessary for me to give her the What For in front of God and everyone.
After this somewhat pleasant stop, we made our way up the mountain. And up, and up, and up. About halfway there, we stopped for a nice lunch at a roadside restaurant at Lake Arenal. The lake is partly man made, and the area is rural and charming.
Finally, we reached the top. Of course, this being a rain forest, it was raining. Fortunately, my $3.99 plastic poncho came in handy at this moment. Except hiking in a plastic poncho is a lot like hiking with a giant Ziplock on. VERY hot and sticky, especially hiking up a gazillion steps in high altitude (I don't do altitude well). But the huffing and puffing were worth it, because at the top of the trail was an amazing view of the volcano. The top was visible (I'm told this isn't always the case) and while we were there, it rumbled and smoke poofed (technical vulcan term) out the top. Very cool!
Once we finished our hike, we went to a hot springs spa. They had about 8 or so pools of varying temperatures to lounge around in. Temps ranged from 86F to 116F. I opted out of the 116F pool because I like my own meat to stay rare, thank you. I particularly liked the pool that you could belly up to the bar and have an Imperial. We also ate a wonderful buffet dinner here.
After dinner (and the sun had set), we took a ride to the side of the volcano that was erupting. We were able to see the lava rolling down the mountain on the SE side. What a great sight! I've never seen lava in person and even though it was far away, it was still a sight to see! Once we had our fill of checking out the lava, we started to head back home. The drive took about 3 hours back, and thanks to our tour guide Johann for barreling down that mountain as fast as he could to get us home. I know his driving caused concern for some in our group, but I know he's driven that road more than a million times so I think we were in good hands.
The next morning, after my shower, I was looking out our patio door at something in the trees. At first I thought it was a howler monkey due to the size, almost 2 meters long. It moved positions and I got a better look. Instead of a monkey, it was an iguana! The biggest iguana I'd ever seen! With a giant spiney mohawk down it's back! Holy Crap! Since we had several other small iguanas in the area, I decided to nickname him The General. I'm sure he is the Iguana King of Potrero!
Well, the story of the howler monkeys will have to fall to part 3...I'm out!
-K
Friday, May 18, 2007
Costa Rica, Part I
Well, our trip was relaxing and wonderful to say the least. I'll give you a highlight recap:
Our flight to Costa Rica left Detroit at 6:30 in the AM. As in the sweaty, stinky ass crack of dawn Eastern Standard Time. We decided to save a couple of hours and sleep at the nearby HoJo's. They also offer a long term parking deal, which was attractive when you're gone 2 weeks.
Staying (or God forbid, living) near an airport is a noisy experience. In the five minutes it took for Mr. Gravity to check in, I counted 3 planes zooming overhead. This didn't cause me a moments pause, because I sleep under any circumstances. Bouncy bus? Check. Hot, crowded airplane ride? Check. Car alarm? Check. Nudists playing the bongos? Got that one, too. Mr. Gravity, however, isn't so lucky. Unless there is perfect silence, he is AWAKE. So, I got plenty of rest, while my husband counted the ceiling tiles 'til about midnight until the 4:45am wake-up call.
Once we were on the plane, all was good. We got into Atlanta on time, and boarded the plane to Liberia. Our fellow inmates included a group of thirty-something men and women in the midst of arrested development. The guys sat together apart from their womenfolk and proceeded to drink most of the way down. The ladies just clucked like chickens until the landing. Thankfully, we drove off in the opposite direction when we got our cab.
The hotel was located on the beach in a nice calm bay. Weather was hot, but breezy, so it definately was an improvement over the cold weather of the Midwest. We got in around 2pm, so we grabbed a bite and a beer and relaxed for the afternoon.
We went to bed kinda early to sleep off some jet lag. One problem, though. A critter decided to occupy the wall space in our bathroom and proceeded to have a dance party in there for the first 20 minutes. Of course, Mr. Gravity wasn't having any of that, so he went to the desk and had our room switched. So, after a few minutes of repacking and re-clothing we were in a more quiet room.
The next 5 days we were vegetables baking in the sun and swimming in a salt bath. Ahhh...I actually stopped chewing my nails after the second day!
Next post: Arenal Volcano, howling monkeys and The General
-K
Our flight to Costa Rica left Detroit at 6:30 in the AM. As in the sweaty, stinky ass crack of dawn Eastern Standard Time. We decided to save a couple of hours and sleep at the nearby HoJo's. They also offer a long term parking deal, which was attractive when you're gone 2 weeks.
Staying (or God forbid, living) near an airport is a noisy experience. In the five minutes it took for Mr. Gravity to check in, I counted 3 planes zooming overhead. This didn't cause me a moments pause, because I sleep under any circumstances. Bouncy bus? Check. Hot, crowded airplane ride? Check. Car alarm? Check. Nudists playing the bongos? Got that one, too. Mr. Gravity, however, isn't so lucky. Unless there is perfect silence, he is AWAKE. So, I got plenty of rest, while my husband counted the ceiling tiles 'til about midnight until the 4:45am wake-up call.
Once we were on the plane, all was good. We got into Atlanta on time, and boarded the plane to Liberia. Our fellow inmates included a group of thirty-something men and women in the midst of arrested development. The guys sat together apart from their womenfolk and proceeded to drink most of the way down. The ladies just clucked like chickens until the landing. Thankfully, we drove off in the opposite direction when we got our cab.
The hotel was located on the beach in a nice calm bay. Weather was hot, but breezy, so it definately was an improvement over the cold weather of the Midwest. We got in around 2pm, so we grabbed a bite and a beer and relaxed for the afternoon.
We went to bed kinda early to sleep off some jet lag. One problem, though. A critter decided to occupy the wall space in our bathroom and proceeded to have a dance party in there for the first 20 minutes. Of course, Mr. Gravity wasn't having any of that, so he went to the desk and had our room switched. So, after a few minutes of repacking and re-clothing we were in a more quiet room.
The next 5 days we were vegetables baking in the sun and swimming in a salt bath. Ahhh...I actually stopped chewing my nails after the second day!
Next post: Arenal Volcano, howling monkeys and The General
-K
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Tag, I'm it...the ABC's of me
Hi all! Back from beautiful, sunny Costa Rica (why do I sound like a game show host?)! I'll blog some details about the trip later this week, along with some photos. In the meantime, I've been tagged by Mike P to give out the ABC's of me...feel free to giggle along...
A - Available or Single - I've been madly in love with my husband, even before he was a possibility to be my husband. Been married for almost 3 years now...
B - Best Friend - I'm extremely lucky to have a few people I can call best friend. My husband, my sister, and my friend Barb. All of them are unconditionally supportive and loving, and I cherish them all. Yes, I realize how lucky I am to have even one friend, let alone three.
C - Cake or Pie - Cake. I love a good carrot cake with cream cheese frosting. My fantasy is to eat a whole carrot cake in one sitting, but I've yet to let my guilty Catholic conscience allow it to happen.
D - Drink of Choice - I'll have to go with Warsteiner as well. For the uninitiated, Warsteiner is a German ale. Nice color, great taste. Much better than the piss we call beer in America.
E - Essential items - Gotta have my Ipod now that I have one. If I was lost on a deserted island, I'd want this and a Sony Reader jammed with books.
F - Favorite Color - Red
G - Gummi Bears or Worms - Surprisingly enough, I'm not a gummi snob. It doesn't have to be bears. In fact, my favorite Gummi item are Gummi frogs from Haribo. You can't get them in the US, so I buy a bunch when we go to Deustchland for Christmas. They are lime flavored green Gummi on top and a soft marshmallow-y substance on the bottom. YUM!
H - Hometown - Sterling Heights. Home to subdivisions and strip malls. No good character there, believe me.
I - Indulgence - My geek/nerd side, and my time I spend running. I love to watch all the documentaries and dorky stuff on the Science and Discovery channels, and I always enjoy a good sci-fi movie or tv show.
J - January or February - I'll take February for my birthday and Valentines' Day. January just has the post-holiday let down.
K - Kids - None unless we get the Second Coming.
L - Life is incomplete without - artistic expression. Whether it is taking photos, embroidery, or appreciating other works of art...couldn't make it without that. Have to be creating something...
M - Marriage Date - October 3, 2004
N - Number of siblings - 4. I have two sisters and one brother, all older. I was an "oops" baby 8 years after my parents thought they were done.
O - Oranges or Apples - Oranges. Fresh oranges remind me of going to visit my aunt in Florida when I was a kid.
P - Phobias/Fear - I have an extreme fear of death. Can't dwell on it too long or it can bring me to tears. Check out a website about Indigo Children, pretty sure I fall into this category. I also have a touch of the agoraphobia, but I think it's really that I can't stand people for an extended period of time. When it's time to go, it's time to go...
Q - Favorite Quote - "Hello. My name is Diego Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die."
R - Reasons to smile - The end of the work day; seeing my husband when I get home; watching my nieces and nephews goof around.
S - Season - I'm partial to Fall (both the season and that I'm not really coordinated)
T - Tag three - my three are tagged already! Not fair!
U - Unknown fact about me - I sing. Really, I can sing.
V - Vegetarian or Oppressor of Animals - Sorry, but I need a big juicy hamburger at that time of the month. Iron!
W - Worst Habits - I bite my nails
X - Xrays or Ultrasounds - I like a nice, lubed up ultrasound any day...
Y - Your favorite foods - Pizza! Beer! Mexican!
Z - Zodiac - I'm a fish, baby...just trying to keep swimming upstream...
Ok, time to wake up now...show's over!
-K
A - Available or Single - I've been madly in love with my husband, even before he was a possibility to be my husband. Been married for almost 3 years now...
B - Best Friend - I'm extremely lucky to have a few people I can call best friend. My husband, my sister, and my friend Barb. All of them are unconditionally supportive and loving, and I cherish them all. Yes, I realize how lucky I am to have even one friend, let alone three.
C - Cake or Pie - Cake. I love a good carrot cake with cream cheese frosting. My fantasy is to eat a whole carrot cake in one sitting, but I've yet to let my guilty Catholic conscience allow it to happen.
D - Drink of Choice - I'll have to go with Warsteiner as well. For the uninitiated, Warsteiner is a German ale. Nice color, great taste. Much better than the piss we call beer in America.
E - Essential items - Gotta have my Ipod now that I have one. If I was lost on a deserted island, I'd want this and a Sony Reader jammed with books.
F - Favorite Color - Red
G - Gummi Bears or Worms - Surprisingly enough, I'm not a gummi snob. It doesn't have to be bears. In fact, my favorite Gummi item are Gummi frogs from Haribo. You can't get them in the US, so I buy a bunch when we go to Deustchland for Christmas. They are lime flavored green Gummi on top and a soft marshmallow-y substance on the bottom. YUM!
H - Hometown - Sterling Heights. Home to subdivisions and strip malls. No good character there, believe me.
I - Indulgence - My geek/nerd side, and my time I spend running. I love to watch all the documentaries and dorky stuff on the Science and Discovery channels, and I always enjoy a good sci-fi movie or tv show.
J - January or February - I'll take February for my birthday and Valentines' Day. January just has the post-holiday let down.
K - Kids - None unless we get the Second Coming.
L - Life is incomplete without - artistic expression. Whether it is taking photos, embroidery, or appreciating other works of art...couldn't make it without that. Have to be creating something...
M - Marriage Date - October 3, 2004
N - Number of siblings - 4. I have two sisters and one brother, all older. I was an "oops" baby 8 years after my parents thought they were done.
O - Oranges or Apples - Oranges. Fresh oranges remind me of going to visit my aunt in Florida when I was a kid.
P - Phobias/Fear - I have an extreme fear of death. Can't dwell on it too long or it can bring me to tears. Check out a website about Indigo Children, pretty sure I fall into this category. I also have a touch of the agoraphobia, but I think it's really that I can't stand people for an extended period of time. When it's time to go, it's time to go...
Q - Favorite Quote - "Hello. My name is Diego Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die."
R - Reasons to smile - The end of the work day; seeing my husband when I get home; watching my nieces and nephews goof around.
S - Season - I'm partial to Fall (both the season and that I'm not really coordinated)
T - Tag three - my three are tagged already! Not fair!
U - Unknown fact about me - I sing. Really, I can sing.
V - Vegetarian or Oppressor of Animals - Sorry, but I need a big juicy hamburger at that time of the month. Iron!
W - Worst Habits - I bite my nails
X - Xrays or Ultrasounds - I like a nice, lubed up ultrasound any day...
Y - Your favorite foods - Pizza! Beer! Mexican!
Z - Zodiac - I'm a fish, baby...just trying to keep swimming upstream...
Ok, time to wake up now...show's over!
-K
Monday, April 30, 2007
Vacation Brain
So, as I sit chained to my desk, working yet another day of unpaid overtime...I dream of my vacation. In just 2 days. To Costa Rica. And I won't be back for two weeks. Suckers.
I hope to take lots and lots of great pix, hopefully have wonderful light and subject matters. I'll try to remember the fellow bloggers out there while I'm sipping a drink at the swim-up bar in the pool...see 'ya, bitches!
-Kim
I hope to take lots and lots of great pix, hopefully have wonderful light and subject matters. I'll try to remember the fellow bloggers out there while I'm sipping a drink at the swim-up bar in the pool...see 'ya, bitches!
-Kim
Thursday, April 26, 2007
Age does not equal smarts
Intellectually, I should know that running on pavement is harder on my legs than running on a nice cushy treadmill.
Intellectually, I should know that running with a pulled left hamstring is not a great idea.
In reality, I didn't think of either one. My adventure started last Saturday. It was a beautiful warm sunny day here in Michigan, so I did a little clean-up gardening. I woke up Sunday with a sore left hamstring, but thought nothing of it since I usually get one from gardening every year.
It was another nice warm sunny day on Sunday, so I went for a run. The run went pretty well. I wasn't used to the warm temp, but otherwise not bad. The leg loosened up after the first 1/2 mile or so, and I was in good shape.
Monday, I wanted to try running in the great outdoors again. I took the same route, and it was also warm that day. The ham was still a bit sore, but the run went okay. Running outside was tough on my inner thigh muscle (whatever you call that), but overall a decent experience.
Then we come to Tuesday. At this point, I'm becoming obsessed with the outside run. I want to go farther, faster. I'm calculating my workout week, and I want to squeeze in another run since I won't be able to do it the next day (which would mean two days off). The temp had dropped to a little below 60F, so it was cooler than it had been. My ham is still sore, but I'm thinking "Why not? I made it fine on Sunday and Monday. What's one more day?" Did I mention that I haven't been doing pavement running since I started? So, I take off on my new 2.2 mile route. It's going ok, not too hot, but geez my left leg just can't seem to get a good stride. I'm running short on that side, and I feel like an old guy shuffling along. I make it a bit over 1 mile at this point, so I decide to take my walk break and give it a rest. After about 3 minutes, I decide to gear up for the rest of the way home. I start off and ohh! My side-thigh muscle thingie hurts like crazy! And ohh! My left groin muscles starts to hurt too! My stride in my left leg is getting smaller and smaller as the ham starts to tighten up even more. At this point, I'm still .7 miles from home and I realize. I have to do the Runner's Walk of Shame to get back to the house. If I keep running like this, I'm going to end up like Quasimodo on a bad day. And did I mention the back of my knee is killing me at this point, too? And that the last 2/10 of a mile is a 10% or so grade up my street?
When finally limped in the front door, I realize my husband has been checking out said limp since I hit our driveway. I got the Dad treatment, fo' sure. "I told you not to kill yourself" (can't collect on the insurance if I do, huh?) "Did you take your cell phone with you? No? What if you fall dead on the street?" (Then I'm dead) "Oh, sweetie" (Oh sweetie).
I promptly hit the garden tub upstairs and soaked that sucker for an hour in scalding water. It did help, and by today (2 days later) I'm good as new. My husband won't be home after work tonight, so maybe I can sneak out again...hmmmm....
-Kim
Intellectually, I should know that running with a pulled left hamstring is not a great idea.
In reality, I didn't think of either one. My adventure started last Saturday. It was a beautiful warm sunny day here in Michigan, so I did a little clean-up gardening. I woke up Sunday with a sore left hamstring, but thought nothing of it since I usually get one from gardening every year.
It was another nice warm sunny day on Sunday, so I went for a run. The run went pretty well. I wasn't used to the warm temp, but otherwise not bad. The leg loosened up after the first 1/2 mile or so, and I was in good shape.
Monday, I wanted to try running in the great outdoors again. I took the same route, and it was also warm that day. The ham was still a bit sore, but the run went okay. Running outside was tough on my inner thigh muscle (whatever you call that), but overall a decent experience.
Then we come to Tuesday. At this point, I'm becoming obsessed with the outside run. I want to go farther, faster. I'm calculating my workout week, and I want to squeeze in another run since I won't be able to do it the next day (which would mean two days off). The temp had dropped to a little below 60F, so it was cooler than it had been. My ham is still sore, but I'm thinking "Why not? I made it fine on Sunday and Monday. What's one more day?" Did I mention that I haven't been doing pavement running since I started? So, I take off on my new 2.2 mile route. It's going ok, not too hot, but geez my left leg just can't seem to get a good stride. I'm running short on that side, and I feel like an old guy shuffling along. I make it a bit over 1 mile at this point, so I decide to take my walk break and give it a rest. After about 3 minutes, I decide to gear up for the rest of the way home. I start off and ohh! My side-thigh muscle thingie hurts like crazy! And ohh! My left groin muscles starts to hurt too! My stride in my left leg is getting smaller and smaller as the ham starts to tighten up even more. At this point, I'm still .7 miles from home and I realize. I have to do the Runner's Walk of Shame to get back to the house. If I keep running like this, I'm going to end up like Quasimodo on a bad day. And did I mention the back of my knee is killing me at this point, too? And that the last 2/10 of a mile is a 10% or so grade up my street?
When finally limped in the front door, I realize my husband has been checking out said limp since I hit our driveway. I got the Dad treatment, fo' sure. "I told you not to kill yourself" (can't collect on the insurance if I do, huh?) "Did you take your cell phone with you? No? What if you fall dead on the street?" (Then I'm dead) "Oh, sweetie" (Oh sweetie).
I promptly hit the garden tub upstairs and soaked that sucker for an hour in scalding water. It did help, and by today (2 days later) I'm good as new. My husband won't be home after work tonight, so maybe I can sneak out again...hmmmm....
-Kim
Monday, April 23, 2007
Going Green - Part II
In looking around a bit, I stumbled on a couple more suggestions for going green that I hadn't realized before. I figured I'd put them out there, maybe you'll have an "aha" moment as well...
1) Don't leave appliances (like monitors, CPUs, etc) running in sleep mode. Well, no shit. The article I read suggests to not only plug these into a power strip (which I do), but to turn THE POWER STRIP off when not using these items. Seems the power strip left turned on all day drains energy that adds up after a while...It seems obvious, but I never really thought about it.
2) The other suggestion was a bit cheesy, but some of you out there might use it. Take your empty Starbucks cup (or other paper-like coffee container) and use it to start plant seeds or herb seeds. The coffee remnants don't harm the seeds (a little acidity sometimes helps) and you don't have to waste the coffee cup.
3) The last one is for all you breeders out there. Use the old cereal boxes as magazine or paper storage racks. Cut the box on an angle so the top and part of one side are cut off (looks like a quadrangle). You can use those odd bits of wrapping paper to cover the Lucky Charms leprechaun if you want...unless your reading is magically delicious.
That's all for today, folks! Hug a tree!
-K
1) Don't leave appliances (like monitors, CPUs, etc) running in sleep mode. Well, no shit. The article I read suggests to not only plug these into a power strip (which I do), but to turn THE POWER STRIP off when not using these items. Seems the power strip left turned on all day drains energy that adds up after a while...It seems obvious, but I never really thought about it.
2) The other suggestion was a bit cheesy, but some of you out there might use it. Take your empty Starbucks cup (or other paper-like coffee container) and use it to start plant seeds or herb seeds. The coffee remnants don't harm the seeds (a little acidity sometimes helps) and you don't have to waste the coffee cup.
3) The last one is for all you breeders out there. Use the old cereal boxes as magazine or paper storage racks. Cut the box on an angle so the top and part of one side are cut off (looks like a quadrangle). You can use those odd bits of wrapping paper to cover the Lucky Charms leprechaun if you want...unless your reading is magically delicious.
That's all for today, folks! Hug a tree!
-K
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
Going Green
Be still my beating heart...is America finally ready to take saving the environment seriously? Are we ready to recycle? Cut our reliance on oil? Cut emissions? The glut of advertising and media coverage on the subject is building, and I only hope this time we take it seriously.
This whole topic isn't new; global warming is not a man-made concept (just a man-made problem). We are strip mining the planet for our daily needs, and it must stop soon. The average household leaves an environmental footprint the size of King Kong, and it really doesn't take a whole lot of effort to make it smaller (like Mighty Joe Young size).
Try recycling. This takes almost zero effort. Instead of chucking the endless catalogues, newspapers and flyers you receive every week - bundle them up. Use an old milk crate to gather the glass, and another one for the cardboard and paper. Once every couple of weeks, trek down to the recycle center and drop them off. Or, better yet, pay a little extra for the trash company to pick it up for you. We pretty much have one bag of trash per week and the rest goes in the bin.
Change your light bulbs to the energy efficient kind. They last longer, and they'll cut your electric bill. They are more expensive, but you spend less in the long run. If you don't want to fork out the expense to do them all at once, just replace them with the good guys when they pop on you.
Run your AC less. We live in Michigan, for cripe's sake, not Brazil. It doesn't get THAT hot. Play more outside in the evening if it's warm in the house. I think we run the AC about a total of 12 days from June to September, and that was on days the high temp hit over 95 F.
Use the rubber mulch in your flower beds. It is made of recycled tires. It doesn't blow away as much as the wood pulp stuff, and it doesn't fade for years. It is soft, so you can use it under your child's play set too.
If everyone gives a little effort, it can go a long way. Christ, I don't know why I even care since we're not breeders...
-K
This whole topic isn't new; global warming is not a man-made concept (just a man-made problem). We are strip mining the planet for our daily needs, and it must stop soon. The average household leaves an environmental footprint the size of King Kong, and it really doesn't take a whole lot of effort to make it smaller (like Mighty Joe Young size).
Try recycling. This takes almost zero effort. Instead of chucking the endless catalogues, newspapers and flyers you receive every week - bundle them up. Use an old milk crate to gather the glass, and another one for the cardboard and paper. Once every couple of weeks, trek down to the recycle center and drop them off. Or, better yet, pay a little extra for the trash company to pick it up for you. We pretty much have one bag of trash per week and the rest goes in the bin.
Change your light bulbs to the energy efficient kind. They last longer, and they'll cut your electric bill. They are more expensive, but you spend less in the long run. If you don't want to fork out the expense to do them all at once, just replace them with the good guys when they pop on you.
Run your AC less. We live in Michigan, for cripe's sake, not Brazil. It doesn't get THAT hot. Play more outside in the evening if it's warm in the house. I think we run the AC about a total of 12 days from June to September, and that was on days the high temp hit over 95 F.
Use the rubber mulch in your flower beds. It is made of recycled tires. It doesn't blow away as much as the wood pulp stuff, and it doesn't fade for years. It is soft, so you can use it under your child's play set too.
If everyone gives a little effort, it can go a long way. Christ, I don't know why I even care since we're not breeders...
-K
Thursday, April 12, 2007
Hey now...
Trying to get fancy and high tech here, adding a photo to the blog. This one is from a vacation in the Bahamas. I figured I would post it for all you folks out there still stuck in the late winter like I am...
I'll try to post a different photo every week, just to show off the hobby...
later!
-K
I'll try to post a different photo every week, just to show off the hobby...
later!
-K
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Can I get an Amen?
How many people out there are in the same spot as me? Here I am, 36 years old. I've worked at the same company for almost 10 years (9.5 years, if you want to be technical). I fell into my line of work out of job desperation after college (my degree is in a totally different field). And, for the past 2 years, I HATE IT. I hate almost everything about it. I get the Sunday Night Stomache ache; I shudder when my work phone rings; I hit Monster.com every other day.
So, what to do? Go back to school? Work part-time in a better profession until I can get a full time job? The economy here in Michigan is so far in the shitter you couldn't reach it with a snake. Looking for another job is a daunting task, fo' sure. School is an option, but one I don't look forward to. Don't get me wrong, I'm all for more education and I was a pretty decent student. I just have zero good study habits and, if it don't come easy, I abandon it like a hot potato.
My passion is photography. There's nothing better than going out early in the morning, just me and my camera, and discovering wonderful things. My dream is to be able to make a living off of my photos, but for now I settle on making it my hobby (and that's fine for me). I've dipped my toe in the professional waters. I've taken a small business class and I've interned with a photo portrait studio in town. I'd just rather do the art and leave the business to someone else... :)
I suppose I'm hitting my mid-life crisis a bit early. I've dyed my hair red, taken up running, and have vowed to start doing more of the things I want to do. Lord help my husband...
-K
So, what to do? Go back to school? Work part-time in a better profession until I can get a full time job? The economy here in Michigan is so far in the shitter you couldn't reach it with a snake. Looking for another job is a daunting task, fo' sure. School is an option, but one I don't look forward to. Don't get me wrong, I'm all for more education and I was a pretty decent student. I just have zero good study habits and, if it don't come easy, I abandon it like a hot potato.
My passion is photography. There's nothing better than going out early in the morning, just me and my camera, and discovering wonderful things. My dream is to be able to make a living off of my photos, but for now I settle on making it my hobby (and that's fine for me). I've dipped my toe in the professional waters. I've taken a small business class and I've interned with a photo portrait studio in town. I'd just rather do the art and leave the business to someone else... :)
I suppose I'm hitting my mid-life crisis a bit early. I've dyed my hair red, taken up running, and have vowed to start doing more of the things I want to do. Lord help my husband...
-K
Monday, April 09, 2007
A new mile-stone
Yes, the hyphen was added on purpose, Mr. English Major. On Saturday I ran my all time high of 2 miles on the Dread! I was sweating like a pig, but boy did it feel good.
I had a doctor's pre-appointment for a physical last week. Now, at my current height (5 ft 6in and change) and weight (188 lbs) I was informed that I am currently in the "obese" category. Initially, this was really depressing to me. But now, I look at it as a motivator for my running.
After I had completed my 2 miles, I told my husband about it, following up with "How's that for obese?". I think I'm saying this word aloud so that I own it and that it doesn't have the power to depress me. It now is just motivating. I'm running a 5K in June...how's that for obese? I run or walk on the treadmill about 12 miles per week...how's that for obese? I don't eat junk food or drink soda pop (haven't in years)...how's that for obese?
I could go on and on...and I do, in my head. I think this label is going to be great to keep me moving; keep me running on a regular schedule. Now when I loose my motivation, I'll just remember that I want to show people wrong! That I'm not lazy; that I'm not going to stop! Yeah for me!
-Kim
I had a doctor's pre-appointment for a physical last week. Now, at my current height (5 ft 6in and change) and weight (188 lbs) I was informed that I am currently in the "obese" category. Initially, this was really depressing to me. But now, I look at it as a motivator for my running.
After I had completed my 2 miles, I told my husband about it, following up with "How's that for obese?". I think I'm saying this word aloud so that I own it and that it doesn't have the power to depress me. It now is just motivating. I'm running a 5K in June...how's that for obese? I run or walk on the treadmill about 12 miles per week...how's that for obese? I don't eat junk food or drink soda pop (haven't in years)...how's that for obese?
I could go on and on...and I do, in my head. I think this label is going to be great to keep me moving; keep me running on a regular schedule. Now when I loose my motivation, I'll just remember that I want to show people wrong! That I'm not lazy; that I'm not going to stop! Yeah for me!
-Kim
Friday, April 06, 2007
What else to do on a day like today
Really, my postings are becoming more and more schizophrenic. Last month, I thought my true calling was music posts. Then my music inspiration went into the shitter...can't tell you why, it just did!
The weather here has turned cold AGAIN, very disappointing. But the cold temparture hasn't stopped the spread of a very insipid bug in my office. And this carrier spreads this bug to most people he comes in contact with...I'm talking Running Fever!
And no, this isn't just a fever that lasts a long time. I've caught the running bug from my coworker Mike P. His enthusiasm for the sport has given me the inspiration to try it myself. I'm running my first 5K in June, and I can't wait. I'm pretty much ready for it now, but with a couple of weeks off for vacation I'll be just about on course training-wise.
The majority of my training has been on the Dread Mill in our basement. That doesn't bug me so much, except on those run that I need to concentrate to pull the last few yards out. Then the basement walls do nothing to inspire me to go forward. At least if I'm running in my neighborhood, I can push myself by mailboxes. You know, I pep talk to myself that I can make it to the black mailbox; and when I get within 10 yards of that I push to the green one. It really does work. No mailboxes in the basement.
And I've also learned that my subdivision isn't named "Hi Hill" for nothing. I never used to wonder why I didn't see many runners in our area. Probably b/c no matter which route you take, you are facing a pretty intimidating slope fo' sure. But that just helps me prep better for a flat trail like Paint Creek in the spring. I can't wait to hit that trail. I just found a park-n-run area not too far from the house to hook onto the trail, so it won't be long now! :)
Well, that updates you for now. In the world of childless-ness, the ancidotal stories are few and far between...Happy Spring!
-K
The weather here has turned cold AGAIN, very disappointing. But the cold temparture hasn't stopped the spread of a very insipid bug in my office. And this carrier spreads this bug to most people he comes in contact with...I'm talking Running Fever!
And no, this isn't just a fever that lasts a long time. I've caught the running bug from my coworker Mike P. His enthusiasm for the sport has given me the inspiration to try it myself. I'm running my first 5K in June, and I can't wait. I'm pretty much ready for it now, but with a couple of weeks off for vacation I'll be just about on course training-wise.
The majority of my training has been on the Dread Mill in our basement. That doesn't bug me so much, except on those run that I need to concentrate to pull the last few yards out. Then the basement walls do nothing to inspire me to go forward. At least if I'm running in my neighborhood, I can push myself by mailboxes. You know, I pep talk to myself that I can make it to the black mailbox; and when I get within 10 yards of that I push to the green one. It really does work. No mailboxes in the basement.
And I've also learned that my subdivision isn't named "Hi Hill" for nothing. I never used to wonder why I didn't see many runners in our area. Probably b/c no matter which route you take, you are facing a pretty intimidating slope fo' sure. But that just helps me prep better for a flat trail like Paint Creek in the spring. I can't wait to hit that trail. I just found a park-n-run area not too far from the house to hook onto the trail, so it won't be long now! :)
Well, that updates you for now. In the world of childless-ness, the ancidotal stories are few and far between...Happy Spring!
-K
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Music Musings
I think I've finally discovered a true purpose for this blog! (Finally, you say). I'm changing the topic to music. All music, please post your opinion on the topics I pick. And please make music suggestions to check out.
My first topic is a new (for the US) singer/songwriter out of Scotland, Paolo Nutini. I've heard about 5 tracks from his new album "These Streets". Not bad for a first U.S. effort, but I think the whole album needs to be stronger to make a bigger impression. Of course, in this new online market, singles are the important thing and not a collection of work. But I'm still kicking it Old School and taking a look at the entire presentation. Until songs are not part of albums anymore, I'll leave the discussion as such.
I do recommend the single "New Shoes". It is a light, fun single that will be good for a sunny day. A good Summer Single. The remainder of the album needs some structure work and lyrics could be more complex. To compare, fellow Scot KT Tunstall gives a nice album debut with "Eye to the Telescope". Lyrics are engaging and witty, and the melodies (on the fast beat songs) are original and surprising.
Check out both artists and compare...
-K
My first topic is a new (for the US) singer/songwriter out of Scotland, Paolo Nutini. I've heard about 5 tracks from his new album "These Streets". Not bad for a first U.S. effort, but I think the whole album needs to be stronger to make a bigger impression. Of course, in this new online market, singles are the important thing and not a collection of work. But I'm still kicking it Old School and taking a look at the entire presentation. Until songs are not part of albums anymore, I'll leave the discussion as such.
I do recommend the single "New Shoes". It is a light, fun single that will be good for a sunny day. A good Summer Single. The remainder of the album needs some structure work and lyrics could be more complex. To compare, fellow Scot KT Tunstall gives a nice album debut with "Eye to the Telescope". Lyrics are engaging and witty, and the melodies (on the fast beat songs) are original and surprising.
Check out both artists and compare...
-K
Monday, February 12, 2007
Police Reunion
Lots of rumors going around, first the Grammy appearance and now the possibility of a tour. I did catch their performance last night on the Grammy telecast...was anyone else disappointed that they did Roxanne? I would've liked to hear at least "Don't stand so close to me" or "Synchronicity II". And only one song? Why no medly at least? Hell, they gave Justin Timberlake two songs and who cares about him...his balls haven't even dropped yet.
There is one thing, one member of that band that has always impressed the hell out of me and has always stood out more than the other two. And no, I'm not talking about Sting. The real genius of that band?
Stewart. Copeland.
Love his drumming, his enthusiasm for the music. Just watching the performance last night, I see he hasn't lost one bit of his greatness. I'm an amateur music geek and am mesmerized on every Police song with the drum line. The staccato; always on the 2's and 4's, never on the 1's and 3's. He just wraps the cymbals around the beat and is always surprising in his choices. For that alone, I will go see this tour. Fuck Sting, he hasn't changed in 20 years. I want to Stewart to blow my mind.
The rest of the Grammy show was so-so, of course had to turn it off when they showcased the country acts around 10pm EST or my husband would vomit. Mary J blew the roof off with her song (as I knew she would). I also liked the trio of John Legend, Corinne Bailey Rae and John Mayer. You'd never see that outside of this venue, and it flowed together quite well.
And of course, I loved the big FUCK YOU to the country set by giving the Dixie Chicks 5 awards. Seems like that sends a clear message to the people: The music industry has their back, even if their supposed "fan base" doesn't. How long do people hold grudges? A long time, per my coworker Mike. He talked to some people from Tennesse during the telecast and they are still pissed at the Chicks. Get over it...I'm sure there is something better in life to feel rage about, like your son going to Iraq for the 3rd time.
Usually I think the Grammys are generally behind the times, but this one seemed a bit better. With the exception of the Tony Bennett/Stevie Wonder duet winning best collaberation (had anyone heard that song? ever?) they seemed better. Boy, they didn't want to reward Timberlake at all for some reason. I guess John Mayer got the benefit of the geriatrics not feeling Sexyback...
There is one thing, one member of that band that has always impressed the hell out of me and has always stood out more than the other two. And no, I'm not talking about Sting. The real genius of that band?
Stewart. Copeland.
Love his drumming, his enthusiasm for the music. Just watching the performance last night, I see he hasn't lost one bit of his greatness. I'm an amateur music geek and am mesmerized on every Police song with the drum line. The staccato; always on the 2's and 4's, never on the 1's and 3's. He just wraps the cymbals around the beat and is always surprising in his choices. For that alone, I will go see this tour. Fuck Sting, he hasn't changed in 20 years. I want to Stewart to blow my mind.
The rest of the Grammy show was so-so, of course had to turn it off when they showcased the country acts around 10pm EST or my husband would vomit. Mary J blew the roof off with her song (as I knew she would). I also liked the trio of John Legend, Corinne Bailey Rae and John Mayer. You'd never see that outside of this venue, and it flowed together quite well.
And of course, I loved the big FUCK YOU to the country set by giving the Dixie Chicks 5 awards. Seems like that sends a clear message to the people: The music industry has their back, even if their supposed "fan base" doesn't. How long do people hold grudges? A long time, per my coworker Mike. He talked to some people from Tennesse during the telecast and they are still pissed at the Chicks. Get over it...I'm sure there is something better in life to feel rage about, like your son going to Iraq for the 3rd time.
Usually I think the Grammys are generally behind the times, but this one seemed a bit better. With the exception of the Tony Bennett/Stevie Wonder duet winning best collaberation (had anyone heard that song? ever?) they seemed better. Boy, they didn't want to reward Timberlake at all for some reason. I guess John Mayer got the benefit of the geriatrics not feeling Sexyback...
Thursday, February 01, 2007
I'm Baaaaaaacccckkkk
Not that anyone reads my drivel...but I've decided to dust off the keyboard again and start to post on a semi-regular basis. Congratulations to Animal on the thumb-size baby, can't wait to see him/her when the oven timer goes off!
Really, the state of the union is high on my mind. We're in Vietnam II; the unemployment rate in my state (MI) is over 7%; doom & gloom, doom & gloom. I'd really like to have a fast forward button to 2008 so we can reboot and start over.
Did anyone out there, I mean ANYONE, really believe we could enter this war and wash our hands of the country in a short amount of time? We're still in KOREA, for fuck's sake! And pulling out all of our soldiers at this point would be a disaster of epic proportions. Let's face it, folks...we dove into this 4 years ago, and we'll be swimming in that pool for many years to come. It doesn't matter the political posturing going on at this point, total pull out just ain't gonna happen.
So much for a war pulling the country out of recession. I'm not sure what rock some people are living under, but our economy is getting worse (and worse). At what point does any elected official stand up and do something about it? I was at first critical of the John Mayer song "Waiting for the World to Change" as an anthem for a lazy generation, but aren't we all helpless here? "It's hard to beat the system when we're standing at a distance"...that about sums it up.
Perhaps next post I'll be less cranky...let's hope not.
-K
Really, the state of the union is high on my mind. We're in Vietnam II; the unemployment rate in my state (MI) is over 7%; doom & gloom, doom & gloom. I'd really like to have a fast forward button to 2008 so we can reboot and start over.
Did anyone out there, I mean ANYONE, really believe we could enter this war and wash our hands of the country in a short amount of time? We're still in KOREA, for fuck's sake! And pulling out all of our soldiers at this point would be a disaster of epic proportions. Let's face it, folks...we dove into this 4 years ago, and we'll be swimming in that pool for many years to come. It doesn't matter the political posturing going on at this point, total pull out just ain't gonna happen.
So much for a war pulling the country out of recession. I'm not sure what rock some people are living under, but our economy is getting worse (and worse). At what point does any elected official stand up and do something about it? I was at first critical of the John Mayer song "Waiting for the World to Change" as an anthem for a lazy generation, but aren't we all helpless here? "It's hard to beat the system when we're standing at a distance"...that about sums it up.
Perhaps next post I'll be less cranky...let's hope not.
-K
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
Please do your civic duty!
Today is Election Day in the big D (and around the country for that matter). I really don't care what your party leanings are or who you like to vote for...JUST VOTE! Don't ignore this gift we have; this privilege (you heard me, privilege) of voting.
Today reminded me that we all don't get that chance, that not every country is free; not every person can speak their mind. What a great place to live in that we, as a people, can make a difference in how our government is run. I know that one vote seems small, but every election is won by one vote at a time. For every person that stays home thinking they don't make a difference, I hope there are two out there that realize they can.
As my close friends can attest, I'm not one to give such a rah-rah speech about such things. But this topic is one that does fire me up. Please do your civic duty and rock that vote!
Today reminded me that we all don't get that chance, that not every country is free; not every person can speak their mind. What a great place to live in that we, as a people, can make a difference in how our government is run. I know that one vote seems small, but every election is won by one vote at a time. For every person that stays home thinking they don't make a difference, I hope there are two out there that realize they can.
As my close friends can attest, I'm not one to give such a rah-rah speech about such things. But this topic is one that does fire me up. Please do your civic duty and rock that vote!
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