Finally, after having to push the kid out the door, he has managed to find himself a girl! For about a week and a half, he has been moping around about this girl, and they finally made it "official" last night. He was so excited, that he promptly changed his relationship status on his Facebook. Sigh...he is a funny kid!
For the record, I had the great pleasure of finding out about the official hook up from the horse's mouth. As I had been in my peaceful slumber, I receive a call at 1151 last night. May I just say, that because I have been so tired, I was in bed by about 830, which is quite rare, so when he asked "Were you sleeping?" I promptly responded "of course not!" So, he came by beaming, and grinning from ear to ear. As I struggled to appear awake and alert, his lady called and he begins talking to her. Feeling a little peeved that I was woken from my normally limited sleeping time, only to have the boy show up and talk on the phone with his girl, I did my best to conceal my irritation, as I knew he was super excited to share his news. I went to the laundry room to fold my clothes in the dryer, and then to my room to put them away, rather than adding to the already huge pile of clean clothes still sitting on top of my massage table.
As we finally made our way to the garage to put on a movie and chat, he grinned and put his arms in the air in triumph! I thought this might be the beginning of less time spent with Matt, but it seems he is determined to have have two women in his life...the girl, and me. The girl he makes out with and talks to about who knows what, and me, the woman he shares his woes with, and does sports with and helps him pick out more stylish clothing. I'm not sure he gets that I won't be around all the time to fulfill his need for that sort of companionship, but I've already told him, so it's his own denial. I blame myself for his dependency on me, but have drawn the line and work hard to enforce that boundary.
He is excited though, to introduce me to her tonight at tennis. In fact, we have changed tennis night from tomorrow to today. I am certain I will want to slap her in the face by the end of the night, since all his little girls he is into are always so annoying, but it is his girl, so I will be cordial. I actually had to tell him to stop introducing me to every single floozy he makes out with, or dates once or twice, and to just introduce me to the one's he actually is dating and so I don't wear myself out. I only have so much tolerance for the girls, and my civility towards them is limited as well.
I am still in need of unpacking all my crap in the garage, but struggle to figure out where to put it all. I may have to just throw a bunch of my food away, as there doesn't seem to be any room in our kitchen, and Tia still has boxes of stuff waiting to be unpacked.
I guess for me, first things first! I finally got a bed, but it still sits in the garage. That will be today's effort as I wait for tennis to begin. As soon as my room is picked up, I can move my love seat and get rid of my existing sleeping mat to make room for the bed. Not only do I have a bed now, but I also bought real pillows. They are even of a decent quality. I must admit, since I bought the pillows, my sleep has improved dramatically. Who knew??? No more two dollar pillows for this girl!!!
ej
29 July 2008
21 July 2008
Earlyl Morning Tennis
Well, I was up at 0330 because I was so excited about playing some early morning tennis. However, my friend wasn't due to be at my house until 0515. When he got there, we drove over to the park and warmed up in the the very faint light. It was nice to start off slow and warm up.
We hit some serves, and when the light improved we rallied a bit. When he was ready, we played a set. He gave me a run for me money a few times, and we finished a set just in time for me to have time to get ready for work. I had a lot of fun. I was excited to play, and it just added a little something to my morning, and was way different that the usual almost mundane flow I can get caught up in.
My friend really cracks me up though. He said the first half hour of playing was like being in a dream. I told him that I hoped it was not a nightmare, but a better dream. He did warn me that he would be a little slow getting going, heh! We'll see if he ever decides to do it again. Good times though.
ej
We hit some serves, and when the light improved we rallied a bit. When he was ready, we played a set. He gave me a run for me money a few times, and we finished a set just in time for me to have time to get ready for work. I had a lot of fun. I was excited to play, and it just added a little something to my morning, and was way different that the usual almost mundane flow I can get caught up in.
My friend really cracks me up though. He said the first half hour of playing was like being in a dream. I told him that I hoped it was not a nightmare, but a better dream. He did warn me that he would be a little slow getting going, heh! We'll see if he ever decides to do it again. Good times though.
ej
16 July 2008
The Police
My friend Matt and I attended the Elvis Costello/The Police concert on Monday night. Matt is a huge Costello fan, and I was going for moral support. Man oh man!!! Sting (and the rest of the band - Stewart Copeland and Andy Summers) are amazing live! Sting's voice is so cotton picking good live, and Stewart Copeland is such an amazing percussionist/drummer. Andy Summers is great too, but I must admit, I'm a bit more partial to the drummer! HEH!
I was tired and still recovering from my weekend food poisoning experience, and I had a headache, and bad pain in the neck, literally, but halfway through the Police set, the meds kicked in and I was golden! They were a lot of fun to see live.
As far as my "wonderful" Saturday, it was a very full day. I played a set of tennis with David. We played very casually, and i lost 6-7(5). It was a lot of fun though. Afterwards, I went to lunch with my Visiting Teaching group and managed to eat something that made me very sick. By the time I got home, my head hurt, and my stomach was very unhappy. I still decided that I should go to tennis practice.
Upon arriving, I had considered the fact that I may be suffering from some mild food poisoning. I survived the experience, amid a few bathroom breaks, I played and had a "good" time. It was fun to meet Virginia (72 year old woman who plays very well), Shashi (really nice Indian lady in her late 30s), and Julie (also in her late 30s). We played for well over an hour, in fact, I have no idea how long, since I was puking my guts out half the time.
Tonight is tennis group, and I am very excited about it! We will have a new face among us, and I hope he likes it and decides to stay. He seems like a nice bloke, and having new people join us is always a lot of fun.
ej
I was tired and still recovering from my weekend food poisoning experience, and I had a headache, and bad pain in the neck, literally, but halfway through the Police set, the meds kicked in and I was golden! They were a lot of fun to see live.
As far as my "wonderful" Saturday, it was a very full day. I played a set of tennis with David. We played very casually, and i lost 6-7(5). It was a lot of fun though. Afterwards, I went to lunch with my Visiting Teaching group and managed to eat something that made me very sick. By the time I got home, my head hurt, and my stomach was very unhappy. I still decided that I should go to tennis practice.
Upon arriving, I had considered the fact that I may be suffering from some mild food poisoning. I survived the experience, amid a few bathroom breaks, I played and had a "good" time. It was fun to meet Virginia (72 year old woman who plays very well), Shashi (really nice Indian lady in her late 30s), and Julie (also in her late 30s). We played for well over an hour, in fact, I have no idea how long, since I was puking my guts out half the time.
Tonight is tennis group, and I am very excited about it! We will have a new face among us, and I hope he likes it and decides to stay. He seems like a nice bloke, and having new people join us is always a lot of fun.
ej
01 July 2008
A late night...
Well, Tia and Family are off for a three day vacation to Disneyland, and I have the place to myself. I am excited to enjoy their bed while they are gone, as I have not slept on a good old fashioned bed in a long time. I am looking forward to my five hour slumber in about five minutes from now.
Matt just left after doing a walk through of the house, since I am to be sleeping here alone, he wanted to make sure all was well and that the doors were actually locked. We don't usually lock doors around these parts, but since I am alone, we made sure everything was secured. Matt and I haven't really spent much time together since we had our little fall out, but we have spent a few evenings "hanging out" and they have been pretty superficial, until tonight.
He came up to me on Sunday after not hearing a peep from him for a few days, and wanted to "hang" so I made an effort to reciprocate. I have found, that being "normal" friends has been difficult for us to master at this point in time. Not sure if we are going to be able to normal friends, but we are making the effort. Tonight, we actually engaged in a meaningful conversation, and I found it to be quite refreshing to veer from our most recent set of social exchanges. We are still keeping a friend profile, for the most part, so that is good.
I find myself feeling resolved in where I want to be spiritually, emotionally, socially, and professionally.
I engaged in pleasant conversation with John today during the day, and despite the smashing of my driver side rear window, the day was somewhat spectacular in it's events. I got quite a bit of my work done, I have plenty to do tomorrow, and I went for an interview for a job where my wages would be $25 per hour, working as an independent contractor for a Chiropractic office (which I am planning on declining), played a set of tennis (and won), and had the wonderful opportunity to be at FHE for the spiritual thought, and destroy Matt in Farkel. It has been a fun and full day, so I hope that I can repeat this tomorrow, as I have another interview, tennis clinic, and then volleyball at Allendale building.
As I am falling asleep at the computer, I will bid you all farwell.
ej
Matt just left after doing a walk through of the house, since I am to be sleeping here alone, he wanted to make sure all was well and that the doors were actually locked. We don't usually lock doors around these parts, but since I am alone, we made sure everything was secured. Matt and I haven't really spent much time together since we had our little fall out, but we have spent a few evenings "hanging out" and they have been pretty superficial, until tonight.
He came up to me on Sunday after not hearing a peep from him for a few days, and wanted to "hang" so I made an effort to reciprocate. I have found, that being "normal" friends has been difficult for us to master at this point in time. Not sure if we are going to be able to normal friends, but we are making the effort. Tonight, we actually engaged in a meaningful conversation, and I found it to be quite refreshing to veer from our most recent set of social exchanges. We are still keeping a friend profile, for the most part, so that is good.
I find myself feeling resolved in where I want to be spiritually, emotionally, socially, and professionally.
I engaged in pleasant conversation with John today during the day, and despite the smashing of my driver side rear window, the day was somewhat spectacular in it's events. I got quite a bit of my work done, I have plenty to do tomorrow, and I went for an interview for a job where my wages would be $25 per hour, working as an independent contractor for a Chiropractic office (which I am planning on declining), played a set of tennis (and won), and had the wonderful opportunity to be at FHE for the spiritual thought, and destroy Matt in Farkel. It has been a fun and full day, so I hope that I can repeat this tomorrow, as I have another interview, tennis clinic, and then volleyball at Allendale building.
As I am falling asleep at the computer, I will bid you all farwell.
ej
17 June 2008
10 June 2008
BBQ at Dr. Peel's
Disclaimer: I absolutely adore Dr. Peel. Any reference made to "nerd" or anything of that nature is meant to be endearing, and not offensive by any means! Thanks again Christian!
Don't let his name and title fool you! Not only is he a doctor of something so geeky and foreign to the average American, but he is also an avid climber of rocks, rider of bicycles, and participator of triathlons, and wait for it ladies...he is a single white male, who can bbq vegetables! Yes, that is right! I have attended two bbq's at the Dr. Peel's and both times have been blessed with the privilege of having bbq'd veggies. I must admit, the second, was a much greater improvement, though the company was a bit more, shall we say...interesting?
Quite coincidentally, both of the other men at the table, less Matt (my faux boyfriend/husband), were of the same mold as Dr. Peel. Engineer nerds, Hwon (sp???) from somewhere Asian, and Lars (clearly a German chick magnet - blech!). I have met Lars before, and both times I have left feeling like I need to wash my hands after shaking his. At any rate, the conversation scope was narrow, and their efforts to get to know others at the table, including Dr. Peel's lady invite, Jess, was feeble and superficial.
Of course, I was suffering from a migraine, so my desire to be absolutely charming and funny was out of the question. I am not going to lie, I was there for the food, although, I could have been happier with a good old fashioned hot dog, well done! Nevertheless, I was happy to be a supportive factor in the event. I can only imagine, but not too much, as not to escape from the reality of what might have really happened, had Matt and I not been there. I am not sure I would like to spend too much time with that crew, but I might say the highlight of the event was watching Jess soon over Dr. Peel and his efforts to be a good host.
You haven't seen anything until you see a girl of her caliber swoon for Dr. Peel. The outing was uneventful for the most part, but I liked the part where Matt and I got into the elevator after spending half an hour convincing Dr. Peel to take the girl out sometime, and Matt asks "Do you think they'd actually work out?" and I reply "Of course not, but at least it's a date!" and Matt replies, "Yeah, same here."
ej
Don't let his name and title fool you! Not only is he a doctor of something so geeky and foreign to the average American, but he is also an avid climber of rocks, rider of bicycles, and participator of triathlons, and wait for it ladies...he is a single white male, who can bbq vegetables! Yes, that is right! I have attended two bbq's at the Dr. Peel's and both times have been blessed with the privilege of having bbq'd veggies. I must admit, the second, was a much greater improvement, though the company was a bit more, shall we say...interesting?
Quite coincidentally, both of the other men at the table, less Matt (my faux boyfriend/husband), were of the same mold as Dr. Peel. Engineer nerds, Hwon (sp???) from somewhere Asian, and Lars (clearly a German chick magnet - blech!). I have met Lars before, and both times I have left feeling like I need to wash my hands after shaking his. At any rate, the conversation scope was narrow, and their efforts to get to know others at the table, including Dr. Peel's lady invite, Jess, was feeble and superficial.
Of course, I was suffering from a migraine, so my desire to be absolutely charming and funny was out of the question. I am not going to lie, I was there for the food, although, I could have been happier with a good old fashioned hot dog, well done! Nevertheless, I was happy to be a supportive factor in the event. I can only imagine, but not too much, as not to escape from the reality of what might have really happened, had Matt and I not been there. I am not sure I would like to spend too much time with that crew, but I might say the highlight of the event was watching Jess soon over Dr. Peel and his efforts to be a good host.
You haven't seen anything until you see a girl of her caliber swoon for Dr. Peel. The outing was uneventful for the most part, but I liked the part where Matt and I got into the elevator after spending half an hour convincing Dr. Peel to take the girl out sometime, and Matt asks "Do you think they'd actually work out?" and I reply "Of course not, but at least it's a date!" and Matt replies, "Yeah, same here."
ej
Who drank my coke???
For the last week or so, I have been bringing two cokes home to put in the fridge. Matt and I like to enjoy a drink in the evening and many times, that means coke in a glass bottle. I noticed lately, that when I went to reach for a coke, there is a bottle missing. Finally, Tia says to me "So, you only buy cokes for you and Matt?" I told her that I did not realize others would be interested in a coke. Then she confessed that she is now addicted to coke in a glass bottle, and that it has been her that has been enjoying our coke behind our backs! So, I brought home five bottles the other day that we may all enjoy them, and wouldn't you know it! They were all gone in no time. There has to be a more cost effective way to drink coke in a glass bottle. It's five bucks for three bottles! That's a gallon of gas, plus a few drops more! =)
ej
ej
Praying to the Porcelain Gods
I had such a bad headache on Saturday, that I went to bed praying for it to be over by the time I woke up. Unfortunately, I had the great honor of waking up and rushing to my knees before the porcelain gods. My head hurt so bad, that I was puking my guts out and tasting the previous night's dinner in a most unpleasant manner.
I was determined however, to attend Steven's farewell. I did so with a smile on my face, only to go home and pass out some more, in hopes of recovering. By Sunday evening, I was again puking my guts out to the porcelain gods. I even had to call in sick Monday morning for work. "Why oh why?"
ej
I was determined however, to attend Steven's farewell. I did so with a smile on my face, only to go home and pass out some more, in hopes of recovering. By Sunday evening, I was again puking my guts out to the porcelain gods. I even had to call in sick Monday morning for work. "Why oh why?"
ej
Mary had a little Lamb
so, a few years ago i discovered that at about 35mph, is a great speed for driving with a small glass bottle of sparkling cider out of your car window and it makes such a dulcet sound, as you can ever imagine! so i was showing matt this wonderful thing with a coke bottle and asked him, "wouldn't it be cool if you got about four people and played mary had a little lamb?? he agreed that it would be cool
so....friday night, i went to pick up Don with Jessie in the car we had to stop and get gas, and don suggested getting a drink (i also, had shared this wonderful thing with don on our way to 7 11 on one of our lunch dates). so, in a 3 part version of mary had a little lamb driving down 87 on a chilly night, played Mary Had a Little Freaking Lamb and it was so awesome! we found our pitches and went for it! my hand was so cold!
ej
so....friday night, i went to pick up Don with Jessie in the car we had to stop and get gas, and don suggested getting a drink (i also, had shared this wonderful thing with don on our way to 7 11 on one of our lunch dates). so, in a 3 part version of mary had a little lamb driving down 87 on a chilly night, played Mary Had a Little Freaking Lamb and it was so awesome! we found our pitches and went for it! my hand was so cold!
ej
Who ate my chankla???
"Who ate my Chankla???" by Erika J. Freeman
It was a perfectly warm afternoon as my roommate and I decided it was time to run to Long's for Huggies (for her two year old), and I was in desperate need of hair ties. Not sure how we are always in need of hair ties, but at any rate, I was in need. My other roommate, Evan, borrowed my car to go to Tracy (far away) to save on gas money, and failed to do two important things: one, put gas in my car before returning it well below the E, and two, to check the oil. I gave specific instructions on this, as my car is not as young as most and requires greater attention.
After finally figuring out that a quart of oil for $5 at the gas station is not the most cost effective way to put oil in your car, we finally made our way to Kragen's and Longs. Oh, did I mention that the mirror portion of my driver's side mirror fell of while Evan was driving to Tracy? True story! So, on our way home from the store we drove leisurely through our neighborhood, when something on the curb of a house caught my eye! Since I have been looking for a very specific type of bookshelf on craigslist, I was excited to see exactly what I wanted sitting on the curb. I walked up to the house and the gentleman I spoke to was happy to have me haul it away!
Haul away...hmmm...yes, how can we handle this??? Tia (six months pregnant) and myself (back still recovering) and my little Toyota....yes...posing a bit of a challenge. I suggest I walk it the quarter of a mile home, but decide my back may not like that so well, then decide on top of my car would work if we're careful. Tia suggests laying it across my open trunk! Great idea! Yes, we decide that will be the best choice! She drives, I follow behind the car holding the shelf steady. Who knew I could run a quarter of a mile in purple chanklas, black Rasta shorts, and a black t shirt in the middle of summer???
That's right, I chased my car home a quarter of a mile, laughing the whole way as people passed us by and took a good look at one skinny white girl driving a ghetto fabulous car, with a bookshelf hanging a foot over on each side, and a full figured white girl in chanklas (aka flip flops) running behind the car. Not only was I trying to keep up with Mrs. Leadfoot, but I also stepped into a pothole, for which she gave no warning, only to discover a huge chunk of my favorite pair of chanklas to be missing. Good thing my toe is safe and sound! My belly was sore from laughing so hard and I just barely started to break a sweat by the time we made it home! I earned that bookshelf!
Lesson learned: No matter the distance, don't forget to stretch after chasing your car down the street. =)
ej
It was a perfectly warm afternoon as my roommate and I decided it was time to run to Long's for Huggies (for her two year old), and I was in desperate need of hair ties. Not sure how we are always in need of hair ties, but at any rate, I was in need. My other roommate, Evan, borrowed my car to go to Tracy (far away) to save on gas money, and failed to do two important things: one, put gas in my car before returning it well below the E, and two, to check the oil. I gave specific instructions on this, as my car is not as young as most and requires greater attention.
After finally figuring out that a quart of oil for $5 at the gas station is not the most cost effective way to put oil in your car, we finally made our way to Kragen's and Longs. Oh, did I mention that the mirror portion of my driver's side mirror fell of while Evan was driving to Tracy? True story! So, on our way home from the store we drove leisurely through our neighborhood, when something on the curb of a house caught my eye! Since I have been looking for a very specific type of bookshelf on craigslist, I was excited to see exactly what I wanted sitting on the curb. I walked up to the house and the gentleman I spoke to was happy to have me haul it away!
Haul away...hmmm...yes, how can we handle this??? Tia (six months pregnant) and myself (back still recovering) and my little Toyota....yes...posing a bit of a challenge. I suggest I walk it the quarter of a mile home, but decide my back may not like that so well, then decide on top of my car would work if we're careful. Tia suggests laying it across my open trunk! Great idea! Yes, we decide that will be the best choice! She drives, I follow behind the car holding the shelf steady. Who knew I could run a quarter of a mile in purple chanklas, black Rasta shorts, and a black t shirt in the middle of summer???
That's right, I chased my car home a quarter of a mile, laughing the whole way as people passed us by and took a good look at one skinny white girl driving a ghetto fabulous car, with a bookshelf hanging a foot over on each side, and a full figured white girl in chanklas (aka flip flops) running behind the car. Not only was I trying to keep up with Mrs. Leadfoot, but I also stepped into a pothole, for which she gave no warning, only to discover a huge chunk of my favorite pair of chanklas to be missing. Good thing my toe is safe and sound! My belly was sore from laughing so hard and I just barely started to break a sweat by the time we made it home! I earned that bookshelf!
Lesson learned: No matter the distance, don't forget to stretch after chasing your car down the street. =)
ej
08 April 2008
Feeling Like a Woman
Friday night was pretty fun! I probably did way too much, but it was worth it. I worked a little later than usual, but still, Carrie and I managed to work in a manicure. I got a French and she got a regular. My nails were finally long enough to get them again. The last time I got a French Mani, I trimmed them a few hours later to play guitar with my friend, Mitchell. It was nice to sport them for a few days. The mani is not the reason for the title of this blog. I am all woman! Whether in my raggedy, faded from the chlorine Duke basketball shorts and baggy t-shirt, or my cute clothes and the cute shoes I sport when I feel like getting a tiny bit fancy. However, it is a great thing when a man notices something feminine in the room.
We were up in The City picking up my friend's paycheck late Friday night. He works for my other friend, Lance. We ended up hanging out on Lance's boat for awhile with his brother, Matt (aka Little Matt) as well. It was a good time, despite the fact that I was cold, tired, and feeling a little snappy with Little Matt. So, we sit in what would be comparable to a living room with three men, someone's bedding sprawled out on the sofa, lots of who knows what all over the floor and "coffee" table, pretty much what one would expect in a bachelor pad, where housekeeping is not a high priority. The question was even asked before I entered, "Is it clean enough for Erika?" Amidst all this, halfway through the evening, Lance turned to me and said, "You smell nice." I even gave him two opportunities to "smell" me and this recongnition of feminity in a room full of masculinity, certainly made my night! Not that it was going poorly, but it was a great reminder of the simple fact that I am a woman, and it was lovely to be admired as such.
ej
We were up in The City picking up my friend's paycheck late Friday night. He works for my other friend, Lance. We ended up hanging out on Lance's boat for awhile with his brother, Matt (aka Little Matt) as well. It was a good time, despite the fact that I was cold, tired, and feeling a little snappy with Little Matt. So, we sit in what would be comparable to a living room with three men, someone's bedding sprawled out on the sofa, lots of who knows what all over the floor and "coffee" table, pretty much what one would expect in a bachelor pad, where housekeeping is not a high priority. The question was even asked before I entered, "Is it clean enough for Erika?" Amidst all this, halfway through the evening, Lance turned to me and said, "You smell nice." I even gave him two opportunities to "smell" me and this recongnition of feminity in a room full of masculinity, certainly made my night! Not that it was going poorly, but it was a great reminder of the simple fact that I am a woman, and it was lovely to be admired as such.
ej
26 March 2008
Tic Tac Toe
Tic Tac Toe
I just returned from my lunch break, and to my most pleasant surprise, Cameron is in Nancy’s office today. Cameron is seven, and is her grandson. He is a very spunky little boy and we always have such a good time! I walked in to talk to Nancy to see him kneeling against a white board drawing. He’s a fantastic artist for such a small boy, and I am always surprised at how creative he is.
Today, he and his grandpa, Oscar, were discussing Tic Tac Toe. Cameron has never played before and I had the great privilege of watching him learn. He is one of my favorite little ones, because he is way, way, way left handed, likes to jump of the walls (literally), loves Star Wars, and doesn’t take “no” for an answer. That is my kind of pal! We always enjoy spinning in circles until we both want to puke, or getting into other types of mischief. Today, however, I am merely and observer of how a small child learns to play an age-old classic game. Even Nancy got a shot at playing!
For some reason, watching them play today warmed more heart something fierce. It was so adorable, and it is probably more adorable, since I’ve been missing one of my usual friends I spend time with. I’m such a girl sometimes! HAHA!
ej
I just returned from my lunch break, and to my most pleasant surprise, Cameron is in Nancy’s office today. Cameron is seven, and is her grandson. He is a very spunky little boy and we always have such a good time! I walked in to talk to Nancy to see him kneeling against a white board drawing. He’s a fantastic artist for such a small boy, and I am always surprised at how creative he is.
Today, he and his grandpa, Oscar, were discussing Tic Tac Toe. Cameron has never played before and I had the great privilege of watching him learn. He is one of my favorite little ones, because he is way, way, way left handed, likes to jump of the walls (literally), loves Star Wars, and doesn’t take “no” for an answer. That is my kind of pal! We always enjoy spinning in circles until we both want to puke, or getting into other types of mischief. Today, however, I am merely and observer of how a small child learns to play an age-old classic game. Even Nancy got a shot at playing!
For some reason, watching them play today warmed more heart something fierce. It was so adorable, and it is probably more adorable, since I’ve been missing one of my usual friends I spend time with. I’m such a girl sometimes! HAHA!
ej
07 February 2008
Lengthening my Stride
Last night, my friend Matt and I, attended a "social" at the San Jose Institute of Religion (That's a place where our church has a building set aside for members and non members alike to attend classes that teach about different parts of the gospel to increase one's understanding of the doctrine, while serving as a place where people can hang out in between classes). At any rate, following one of the classes on Wednesday, they have a group activity/team building exercise. It probably wasn't the highlight of the night, but whatever...
There were a few awkward moments, but the first was when Matt and I were shooting pool waiting for the class to be over when a girl we didn't know walked in and over to us and asked, "Are you on a date?" I quickly replied in the negative. I was shocked on two levels, the first being that she did not engage in any preliminaries, nor did she say, or ask anything else. Not that being on a date with Matt would be a bad thing, but why would he take me to the institute for a date??? He has a little more style than that! Secondly, he and I have been on a date a long time ago. It didn't go well.
However, that leads to a different, yet related train of thought. Since he and I have become friends, I would have no problem going on a date with him. He is a lot different than he was when he asked me out. He was fresh off a mission, still really socially awkward, and immature. He has grown by leaps and bounds since then, and I would hope that I have as well. So, the thought of giving it a second attempt doesn't make me want to puke. I'd be totally open to it, but I'm not hoping for it, but I'd be open. I say this, just to point out that a few years ago, the thought of hanging out with Matt wasn't very appealing. We were both in different phases of our lives and there was not even enough chemistry to have a friendship.
This can happen in different aspects of our lives. Sometimes, we are presented with certain opportunities and it doesn't appeal to us, but when the same situation is re-introduced later, we don't always give it a second chance. Sometimes, the time passed, the changes and growth we experience, make us more prepared, or more compatible with the situation. Here is a medical analogy: When I was a young child, I suffered from chronic migraines (this has not changed). However, I was given a medication called Fiornal to take when I was suffering with a more severe headache than OTC drugs could not alleviate. As a child, my body could not handle the affects, or accept the chemical change and my body responded poorly. It was insufferable! I was then prescribed something else. As my body changed, and I grew older, so did my chemical make up. The medication I took stopped working, and they suggested I give Fiornal another shot! In high school, on the verge of being home schooled due to high absences due to illness, I decided to go for it. It was amazing! I resisted for some time, because I had remembered what I had experienced the first time around, but it became an important part of my life. Sure, I was knocked out for two hours solid, but I woke up feeling like a million bucks!
I think about that when presented with something that I have already seen, or experienced. I ask myself, "Didn't I already try this? I know I didn't like it the first time, why would that be different this time?" But, like Fiornal, and green beans (I despised them as a child), church dances, FHE, hanging out with certain groups of people, I have found that sometimes, when time has passed and I have grown as a person, and especially when it comes to people, we change and progress all the time. Who's to say it may not be more to your liking later? Well, I guess in the case of the green beans, it's a deterioration of the taste buds that make them more palatable as an adult, but I think you get the point. So, I guess the point is ask yourself “why not?” and maybe you might find yourself stretching your legs a little more and lengthening that stride!
I am going to make a greater effort to do this in my social networking. It's got to be more than tolerance. Tolerance without at least a little benevolence is a vain effort indeed.
There were a few awkward moments, but the first was when Matt and I were shooting pool waiting for the class to be over when a girl we didn't know walked in and over to us and asked, "Are you on a date?" I quickly replied in the negative. I was shocked on two levels, the first being that she did not engage in any preliminaries, nor did she say, or ask anything else. Not that being on a date with Matt would be a bad thing, but why would he take me to the institute for a date??? He has a little more style than that! Secondly, he and I have been on a date a long time ago. It didn't go well.
However, that leads to a different, yet related train of thought. Since he and I have become friends, I would have no problem going on a date with him. He is a lot different than he was when he asked me out. He was fresh off a mission, still really socially awkward, and immature. He has grown by leaps and bounds since then, and I would hope that I have as well. So, the thought of giving it a second attempt doesn't make me want to puke. I'd be totally open to it, but I'm not hoping for it, but I'd be open. I say this, just to point out that a few years ago, the thought of hanging out with Matt wasn't very appealing. We were both in different phases of our lives and there was not even enough chemistry to have a friendship.
This can happen in different aspects of our lives. Sometimes, we are presented with certain opportunities and it doesn't appeal to us, but when the same situation is re-introduced later, we don't always give it a second chance. Sometimes, the time passed, the changes and growth we experience, make us more prepared, or more compatible with the situation. Here is a medical analogy: When I was a young child, I suffered from chronic migraines (this has not changed). However, I was given a medication called Fiornal to take when I was suffering with a more severe headache than OTC drugs could not alleviate. As a child, my body could not handle the affects, or accept the chemical change and my body responded poorly. It was insufferable! I was then prescribed something else. As my body changed, and I grew older, so did my chemical make up. The medication I took stopped working, and they suggested I give Fiornal another shot! In high school, on the verge of being home schooled due to high absences due to illness, I decided to go for it. It was amazing! I resisted for some time, because I had remembered what I had experienced the first time around, but it became an important part of my life. Sure, I was knocked out for two hours solid, but I woke up feeling like a million bucks!
I think about that when presented with something that I have already seen, or experienced. I ask myself, "Didn't I already try this? I know I didn't like it the first time, why would that be different this time?" But, like Fiornal, and green beans (I despised them as a child), church dances, FHE, hanging out with certain groups of people, I have found that sometimes, when time has passed and I have grown as a person, and especially when it comes to people, we change and progress all the time. Who's to say it may not be more to your liking later? Well, I guess in the case of the green beans, it's a deterioration of the taste buds that make them more palatable as an adult, but I think you get the point. So, I guess the point is ask yourself “why not?” and maybe you might find yourself stretching your legs a little more and lengthening that stride!
I am going to make a greater effort to do this in my social networking. It's got to be more than tolerance. Tolerance without at least a little benevolence is a vain effort indeed.
01 February 2008
Going Bonkers
Keeping busy with official and unofficial activities in my life. Sometimes, I forget that I am human and am very capable having my feeling hurt. It doesn't happen often, and I steer clear of things that I might actually care about and I move along rolling my eyes about the crap I am forced to witness. I don't allow a lot of people into my inner circle. I know I take it to an extreme, but even my Twinner's I haven't let in on a lot. I can't do it. My current company demands this distance, and there is not one among them deserving of such a trusted and sacred part of me.
Today, as the last few days have been I have been in a position of what to some might be jaw-dropping experiences. But for me, I have to analyze it first and consider what has really come to pass. That way, I don't jump to conclusions. It finally hit me today that my feeling is hurt and I am not pleased about it. I am not angry, I am hurt. I'm hurt, however, on a few different levels, which make the hurt deeper. I hurt for the man I look to for so much guidance, as I see him faced with many troubles. I hurt for his family, and what they have gone through, especially his wife. I hurt to see him hide his concern for the economic welfare of his company and those that work for him. I hurt when sometimes his frustrations (even in his concern he is very even keel), are taken out on my by short comments that hurt me to my core.
I rarely cry. I don't cry at funerals. I don't cry when I watch stupid chick flicks that most women require and entire box of facial tissue. I can watch Schindler's List a million times and not shed one single tear. I have read books about what the Jews had to endure while in the various extermination camps, where, in great detail, the experiments, and method of mass execution is described, and still...no tears. However, today, I felt the desire to cry. I didn't cry, but I actually thought I might. All because of one word..."whatever." It wasn't the word itself, but the tone, and intent, and from whom the word was spoken. It hurt me. That's it.
ej
Today, as the last few days have been I have been in a position of what to some might be jaw-dropping experiences. But for me, I have to analyze it first and consider what has really come to pass. That way, I don't jump to conclusions. It finally hit me today that my feeling is hurt and I am not pleased about it. I am not angry, I am hurt. I'm hurt, however, on a few different levels, which make the hurt deeper. I hurt for the man I look to for so much guidance, as I see him faced with many troubles. I hurt for his family, and what they have gone through, especially his wife. I hurt to see him hide his concern for the economic welfare of his company and those that work for him. I hurt when sometimes his frustrations (even in his concern he is very even keel), are taken out on my by short comments that hurt me to my core.
I rarely cry. I don't cry at funerals. I don't cry when I watch stupid chick flicks that most women require and entire box of facial tissue. I can watch Schindler's List a million times and not shed one single tear. I have read books about what the Jews had to endure while in the various extermination camps, where, in great detail, the experiments, and method of mass execution is described, and still...no tears. However, today, I felt the desire to cry. I didn't cry, but I actually thought I might. All because of one word..."whatever." It wasn't the word itself, but the tone, and intent, and from whom the word was spoken. It hurt me. That's it.
ej
18 December 2007
Jam Session...well...sorta...
After over 11 years, I played the trombone last night. I only played for one section of a piece, but dang, I sounded pretty darn good! LOL! I played trumpet the rest of the time, as my friend, Jessie, brought her trombone and has played more recently than I. We were fortunate that have been able to get some of it on audio/video. We even switched instruments at one point and that was a hoot too!
Later, we will work up to a more complicated piece. We have arrangments for Glen Miller's "In the Mood" and Chicago's "25 or 6 to 4." Those are some fun jazzy songs that will be good fun when we get back into the swing of things. We had some good laughs last night!
Aw we were waiting for the rice to cook, and our lips were buzzing from our earlier efforts of playing, we read Act 1 Scene 1 of Romeo and Juliet. While the hamburger concoction was heating up, we summarized what we had read, and put it into terms we felt our contemporaries would understand. It was terribly funny! Carrie, I can't wait for you to come out to California and join in the fun!
ej
Later, we will work up to a more complicated piece. We have arrangments for Glen Miller's "In the Mood" and Chicago's "25 or 6 to 4." Those are some fun jazzy songs that will be good fun when we get back into the swing of things. We had some good laughs last night!
Aw we were waiting for the rice to cook, and our lips were buzzing from our earlier efforts of playing, we read Act 1 Scene 1 of Romeo and Juliet. While the hamburger concoction was heating up, we summarized what we had read, and put it into terms we felt our contemporaries would understand. It was terribly funny! Carrie, I can't wait for you to come out to California and join in the fun!
ej
07 December 2007
rain rain go away
it's raining today
pouring cats and dogs
i remember the old days
sittin' in school
with nothin' to do
the teacher's callin' my name
i'd rather go outside to play
but we're...
playin' heads up 7 up
eating lunch at our desks
hopin' that the sun comes out
and dries up all the rain
i'm thinkin' 'bout hop scotch
pencil breakn' n' double dutch
oh please
rain rain go away
it's time for that spelling test
i didn't even practice yet
spent all morning lookin' outside
tryin' to make the sun shine bright
little prayers with a little beggin'
hoping that the rain lets up
and cancels all our tests
but instead...
rain rain go away
come back some other day
i'm tired of
heads up 7 up
eating lunches at my desk
wantin' to play hop scotch
pencil break and double dutch
oh,
rain rain some other day
ej
pouring cats and dogs
i remember the old days
sittin' in school
with nothin' to do
the teacher's callin' my name
i'd rather go outside to play
but we're...
playin' heads up 7 up
eating lunch at our desks
hopin' that the sun comes out
and dries up all the rain
i'm thinkin' 'bout hop scotch
pencil breakn' n' double dutch
oh please
rain rain go away
it's time for that spelling test
i didn't even practice yet
spent all morning lookin' outside
tryin' to make the sun shine bright
little prayers with a little beggin'
hoping that the rain lets up
and cancels all our tests
but instead...
rain rain go away
come back some other day
i'm tired of
heads up 7 up
eating lunches at my desk
wantin' to play hop scotch
pencil break and double dutch
oh,
rain rain some other day
ej
05 December 2007
Feeling Old
I spent my thanksgiving playing football for nearly 4 hours straight, then rushed home to cook and shower before dinner. By the time dinner was through and the pies came out, I was already going home. I was so tired, especially since I'd been up since 4 a.m. (my regular time on weekdays). I had agreed to playing basketball Friday morning with the boys. So, we played for almost three hours. I was already sore from football the day before, and even though I work out faithfully, I was still exhausted. Pushing the accelerator on my way home was an effort. I attmepted to practice a few songs on the drums, but my legs were so tired, that it hurt to use the bass pedal. I spent the rest of afternoon getting things done around the apartment with a great effort. Saturday, I spent with my friend Amy and crew. She was moving into her new apartment. It was a lot of work, but a lot of fun. The only thing, is somehow I tweaked my back and it has not been the same since. Certainly, I am aware that it is probably my fault, as I have continued to go to the gym, and work for the Jensen's doing labor intensive tasks. But, I need the money to pay rent, so I we do what we gotta do. Take 600mg of Motrin and off you go! I've decided however, that when I am recovered and someday have a home of my own, I will have a backyard area that has a pile of dirt. Each day, I am going to go out and move the pile of dirt from one place to another for exercise. It is a full body experience, and imagine how strong you would get if you did that once a day, everyday, Sunday excluded? Yeah, that'd be fun!
ej
ej
03 December 2007
Driving in my car...
Driving in my car is always an experience. I have a 1986 Toyota Camry and it is the most fun car I've ever owned! The motor hums quietly, and when I am idling at a red light, the only sound other than the motor, is the soft "tick...tick...tick..." of the small clock in my dashboard control panel. I enjoy all the small details of my car that gives it character and most especially the interior. The vinyl interior of my roof is cracked in such a way, that it makes me think that Spiderman and bricklayers came together to create the fun, intricate design that exists in my car. The cloth interior is a light blue, mostly faded from years in the sun, and my exterior paint job leads me to question the original color of the car, but I am happy to call it blue, but I'm not sure. My car stereo has a little erractic at times, and at any given moment, all the speakers may decide to work simultaneously! I get excellent gas mileage and displayed above my rear window break light, I display proudly in white lettering, "TAPOUT" (this matching my favorite fighting T-shirt). I'm finding that it's taken longer than I had realized, to adjust to the manual windows, thus giving "power" windows, a whole new meaning to me. If anything, I have "power" windows, as it is because of my brute strength that I am able to operate the driver side window! It has been such a joy to drive this car, and I look forward to many adventures to come.
ej
ej
19 November 2007
Perambulating after Christmas in the Park
There's a calming effect I experience when I walk under an overpass. There is a pinging in my ears as the sound of the cars "whooshing" by bounces back and forth against the concrete pillars stimulating my senses. Even in an instant of seemingly chaotic stimuli a person can get lost in the moment All my senses are heightened as I take each step, and my head is down as I read the words of Mark Twain in "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer." I am focused on the story in my hands, but aware of the step I'm in and the steps to come. The cracks in the concrete remind me of the childhood game to be played alone or with others. "Don't step on a crack, or you'll break your mother's back!" we would declare one to the other. As I think this reading of Tom's excellent adventure in whitewashing Aunt Polly's fence, and simultaneously take an extended stride to avoid a crack. I resist the temptation to stop a moment and take a moment to climb the concrete that ascends toward the ceiling of the overpass to read a few moments and enjoy the waves of sounds under the bridge of concrete. It calls to me but I politely decline the invitation and trudge along. The browned leaves rustle beneath my feet as I step back into the sunlight. A welcomed warming to my chilled cheeks and inviting me to play some more. Again, I do not check my pace and continue along the paved walkway. It's a cool winter day with a bright encouraging sun. Today I am simply determined not to be engaged in spirited follies of the usual nature, but to enjoy an early morning perambulation of a reserved nature and to stimulate my creative eye by the leisurely reading of a fine piece of American literature.
ej
ej
12 November 2007
Dying Young
i always believed i would die young
i had dreams that would lead me
guiding my life to lay me to rest
in a grave of rocks and stubble
i don't know why i had visions, gray
but the coolness of the stones
against my face, unmoved by my cold flesh
no blood was shewn and no tears poured
my corpse lay quiet, breathless, souless
never questioning or beckoning for reason
still, beneath the smooth rock i rest
never again to speak a word of distress
jjf
i had dreams that would lead me
guiding my life to lay me to rest
in a grave of rocks and stubble
i don't know why i had visions, gray
but the coolness of the stones
against my face, unmoved by my cold flesh
no blood was shewn and no tears poured
my corpse lay quiet, breathless, souless
never questioning or beckoning for reason
still, beneath the smooth rock i rest
never again to speak a word of distress
jjf
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