HAPPY BIRTHDAY, CATHY!!! (29 August)
The girls and I went out to eat last night. Tia left the baby at home with the Husband, Jessie and I went to dinner...again. On our way to Coco's, I remembered it was my cousin, Cathy's birthday. So, as I am driving "legally" with my cell phone, I "call" Cathy. She doesn't answer, so we sing "Cover Girl" by New Kids on the Block, and I shout "Happy Birthday, Cathy!" and also some other non-shares about the upcoming New Kids concert.
...
Dinner is over and I glance at my phone to see what calls I have missed, then I noticed that I had an outgoing call to someone named "Carly." Interesting...
...
Not sure I know anyone named, "Carly." Biscuits and Gravy!!! I called the wrong person! Now, someone out there in the San Jose area has the lovely, dulcet tones of three hot women, singing on her voice mail. Who knew? I am not sure I should have been driving last night, I was so tired, but I was. And you know what??? No one died. We got close, I'm not saying we didn't, but no one died. The only thing that suffered a death, was that little piece inside all of us that dies when we realize we did something completely, utterly retarded, and there were witnesses to retell the story later.
ej
30 August 2008
27 August 2008
Success!
Success! Yes, it was a success! Did we add a tally in the "W" column? No. However, for me personally, the first match is out of the way, and I had a great time learning, growing, and watching myself hit the ball into the net over and over again. =) There is merit in every challenging experience, even when sometimes the lesson is repeated 15 times in the course of 25 seconds.
My partner, Shashi, was really great! The whole first set was filled with both of us try to convince ourselves to relax, and eventually by the second to the last game of the first set, we started to actually feel it. My serve that usually goes in, and I don't usually have issues double faulting...well, I double faulted so many times, I about wanted to spit on my racquet. I had a lot of fun. I like feeling that competive pressure. It wasn't a lot of pressure, but it was good. Keeps the adrenaline up. I wasn't as composed as I would like to be when competing, but I reckon that will come the more I play. I sure hope I get a few more opportunities to play before the season ends.
The weather was nice, and I finally started breaking a good sweat during our never-ending game towards the end of the first set. Game six...whew! I must have served 50 times during that game. Literally! We were in Deuce for what seemed an eternity, and had to replay points at least four or five times, due to balls flying into our court from the matches going on around us. Shashi was right! We were meant to win that game. Who knew we would have to fight so hard to get it???
I need to hit more often so I can get back some consistency! I don't have the confidence I need to win just yet, but I know that comes in time and with effort! Hurrah! Hurrah! It will be on after I put a little more time in!
Official score: 1-6, 3-6 (But there were a lot of close games)!!!
ej
My partner, Shashi, was really great! The whole first set was filled with both of us try to convince ourselves to relax, and eventually by the second to the last game of the first set, we started to actually feel it. My serve that usually goes in, and I don't usually have issues double faulting...well, I double faulted so many times, I about wanted to spit on my racquet. I had a lot of fun. I like feeling that competive pressure. It wasn't a lot of pressure, but it was good. Keeps the adrenaline up. I wasn't as composed as I would like to be when competing, but I reckon that will come the more I play. I sure hope I get a few more opportunities to play before the season ends.
The weather was nice, and I finally started breaking a good sweat during our never-ending game towards the end of the first set. Game six...whew! I must have served 50 times during that game. Literally! We were in Deuce for what seemed an eternity, and had to replay points at least four or five times, due to balls flying into our court from the matches going on around us. Shashi was right! We were meant to win that game. Who knew we would have to fight so hard to get it???
I need to hit more often so I can get back some consistency! I don't have the confidence I need to win just yet, but I know that comes in time and with effort! Hurrah! Hurrah! It will be on after I put a little more time in!
Official score: 1-6, 3-6 (But there were a lot of close games)!!!
ej
26 August 2008
Excitement in the Air - Be like, Novak!
Tonight, is my first official competitive tennis match in over a decade. *Deep breath and exhale slowly* Yes, I am excited. Yes, I am nervous. Yes, I am scared that we will be beaten into pulp. We have been getting our backsides handed to us in nearly every match. We are playing in a league up, so victories are hard to come by, it seems.
It is a developmental season, preparing for March's competitive season. However, for me, I don't like to lose. I can lose with a smile, but I don't like to lose. Mostly, I don't like to lose to myself. To commit unforced errors and lose a match because you handed them over half their points...not to my liking.
However, not that I am expecting to lose, in fact, I am expecting to win! My partner, Shashi, is really great to play with. We have only played a couple times together, and both of us are singles players. This has pros and cons to both sides. One of our biggest challenges has been communication. When you play singles, you play the whole court. In doubles you share the court, and when you decide to switch sides, you need to let each other know. Also, in singles you can go after everything yourself, and in doubles your partner will be there to back you up. Communication is so important, and yet, we are just now learning to talk to each other. She is super nice, and is really down to earth.
The ladies we played with last night were a little on the scary side, but they were cool. They are of the more vintage variety, but can really put the ball where it needs to be. I hope to be as good as they are soon, and just as good when I am their age, if not better! We lost both sets, but it was close most of the way. We made a good comeback and they won in the tie-break the first set 6-7(5), and we lost the second set 4-6.
I used to have a strong backhand, now...it's not so strong. I for sure need to work on my backhand side. They tore me up on it last night. If I had even a decent backhand, we probably would have won. But, they saw the weakness and exploited it. I even got aced. I hate that! I at least want to touch it with my racquet. But she got me clean away! I had to regain composure mentally after that. I smiled on the outside, but was ready to spit on the inside. Just at myself I was upset. At least get a tip! Just make contact with the ball somehow! Move my feet! So, I double faulted after they won the game on the ace. I don't double fault too often, but one double fault is one too many as far as I am concerned!
It was a lot of fun. Even Roger Federer, and Novak Djokovic have to learn from each game or practice. I learned a ton, and relearned a ton. I am really looking forward to playing tonight! =)
ej
It is a developmental season, preparing for March's competitive season. However, for me, I don't like to lose. I can lose with a smile, but I don't like to lose. Mostly, I don't like to lose to myself. To commit unforced errors and lose a match because you handed them over half their points...not to my liking.
However, not that I am expecting to lose, in fact, I am expecting to win! My partner, Shashi, is really great to play with. We have only played a couple times together, and both of us are singles players. This has pros and cons to both sides. One of our biggest challenges has been communication. When you play singles, you play the whole court. In doubles you share the court, and when you decide to switch sides, you need to let each other know. Also, in singles you can go after everything yourself, and in doubles your partner will be there to back you up. Communication is so important, and yet, we are just now learning to talk to each other. She is super nice, and is really down to earth.
The ladies we played with last night were a little on the scary side, but they were cool. They are of the more vintage variety, but can really put the ball where it needs to be. I hope to be as good as they are soon, and just as good when I am their age, if not better! We lost both sets, but it was close most of the way. We made a good comeback and they won in the tie-break the first set 6-7(5), and we lost the second set 4-6.
I used to have a strong backhand, now...it's not so strong. I for sure need to work on my backhand side. They tore me up on it last night. If I had even a decent backhand, we probably would have won. But, they saw the weakness and exploited it. I even got aced. I hate that! I at least want to touch it with my racquet. But she got me clean away! I had to regain composure mentally after that. I smiled on the outside, but was ready to spit on the inside. Just at myself I was upset. At least get a tip! Just make contact with the ball somehow! Move my feet! So, I double faulted after they won the game on the ace. I don't double fault too often, but one double fault is one too many as far as I am concerned!
It was a lot of fun. Even Roger Federer, and Novak Djokovic have to learn from each game or practice. I learned a ton, and relearned a ton. I am really looking forward to playing tonight! =)
ej
23 August 2008
Weekend Fun
I was so tired on Friday that I almost bailed on Brianne's "Celebrating her passing of some Nursing exam" dinner, but I went anyway. First thing I did was buy a caffeine loaded beverage. =) I am really glad I made it to dinner, because I got to talk to some of my friends I rarely get to see. There were a few people from the Singles ward there, but not anyone I knew really well, and three "marrieds."
I didn't even know Jenny and Mike were back from Guam, nor did I know they were living in Gilroy now! Jenny (aka La Yeni) is one of my favorite people! She looks so great and later in the evening; she and I had a great time dancing! Tiff and Nols were there, as well as George and Lindsey. We all got to catch up over dinner and so come actual party time at Bri's, it was all dancing!
I am glad Lindsey and George are so laid back. George is one of my favorite dance partners. Since he is a fireman, he knows how to be a pole! Hahahaha! We were not super naughty, but there were a few George sandwiches made Friday night! Lindsey and I made sure of it! Not only that, but the most least likely person in the house, Christian Peel, had the wonderful pleasure of being danced with by four girls at one time!!! It was so funny! Did he dance with us??? Not really! He just put his hands in the air and spun around in circles shouting "WOOOOOOOO!!!! WOOOOOOOO!!!!!" So funny! He may have missed the object of the exercise! ;)
Jessie definitely lived up to hear "pole dancer" status (she really did take a pole dancing class, for the record). The only thing though...I even told her this at one point of the evening...she had one speed! Hahahaha! She needs to get married soon, that's all I'm saying!
Even though there were technically more men than women at the party, most of them just stood by like bumps on a log, while all the girls danced with each other. Or, they were outside playing video games! You have to respect guys like George and Jordan, even Christian. They may not be the best dancers, or have the most rhythm, but the girls like to dance, so they get out there anyway to make the women happy. Women are easier to understand than men might think. We don't care if you dance well, just grab us by the hips, or take us by the hand, depending on the circumstance, and lead us on the dance floor. That's HOT!!! Be confident, or fake it till you make it! There is a quote from a song I heard on a movie the other day..."Well does he take you out dancin' just so he can hold you close?" I really liked that line, because I think that is what girls want. Wouldn't making your girl happy be enough to at least take her out on the dance floor once in awhile? I'm just saying.
I felt bad for all these wonderful girls out there dancing, and all the boys looking on. Only to find out later, that half of them wants to take one of them out. In fact, one of them came up to me after the party to ask about one of my friends. (First of all, be a man! Don't disrespect one woman to get info on another. Should that girl decide to tell her friend that you asked, that is a turn-off). He stood by and watched her dance all night long, and never got out there to dance with her. How is she going to notice his interest if he is hiding in a corner? When she wasn't dancing, he didn't talk to her. I understand being shy, I am not the most outgoing person in the world, but there are times to man up. So many wonderful women, and no men to take them out? Just scared boys...it makes me sad for those guys that are missing out on great women. I am not a man hater, just feeling sad that they haven't taken the opportunity to spend time with quality young women. I won't quote directly what some of the girls said to each other while dancing, you'll have to ask me about it in person, but it made me feel so sad.
ej
I didn't even know Jenny and Mike were back from Guam, nor did I know they were living in Gilroy now! Jenny (aka La Yeni) is one of my favorite people! She looks so great and later in the evening; she and I had a great time dancing! Tiff and Nols were there, as well as George and Lindsey. We all got to catch up over dinner and so come actual party time at Bri's, it was all dancing!
I am glad Lindsey and George are so laid back. George is one of my favorite dance partners. Since he is a fireman, he knows how to be a pole! Hahahaha! We were not super naughty, but there were a few George sandwiches made Friday night! Lindsey and I made sure of it! Not only that, but the most least likely person in the house, Christian Peel, had the wonderful pleasure of being danced with by four girls at one time!!! It was so funny! Did he dance with us??? Not really! He just put his hands in the air and spun around in circles shouting "WOOOOOOOO!!!! WOOOOOOOO!!!!!" So funny! He may have missed the object of the exercise! ;)
Jessie definitely lived up to hear "pole dancer" status (she really did take a pole dancing class, for the record). The only thing though...I even told her this at one point of the evening...she had one speed! Hahahaha! She needs to get married soon, that's all I'm saying!
Even though there were technically more men than women at the party, most of them just stood by like bumps on a log, while all the girls danced with each other. Or, they were outside playing video games! You have to respect guys like George and Jordan, even Christian. They may not be the best dancers, or have the most rhythm, but the girls like to dance, so they get out there anyway to make the women happy. Women are easier to understand than men might think. We don't care if you dance well, just grab us by the hips, or take us by the hand, depending on the circumstance, and lead us on the dance floor. That's HOT!!! Be confident, or fake it till you make it! There is a quote from a song I heard on a movie the other day..."Well does he take you out dancin' just so he can hold you close?" I really liked that line, because I think that is what girls want. Wouldn't making your girl happy be enough to at least take her out on the dance floor once in awhile? I'm just saying.
I felt bad for all these wonderful girls out there dancing, and all the boys looking on. Only to find out later, that half of them wants to take one of them out. In fact, one of them came up to me after the party to ask about one of my friends. (First of all, be a man! Don't disrespect one woman to get info on another. Should that girl decide to tell her friend that you asked, that is a turn-off). He stood by and watched her dance all night long, and never got out there to dance with her. How is she going to notice his interest if he is hiding in a corner? When she wasn't dancing, he didn't talk to her. I understand being shy, I am not the most outgoing person in the world, but there are times to man up. So many wonderful women, and no men to take them out? Just scared boys...it makes me sad for those guys that are missing out on great women. I am not a man hater, just feeling sad that they haven't taken the opportunity to spend time with quality young women. I won't quote directly what some of the girls said to each other while dancing, you'll have to ask me about it in person, but it made me feel so sad.
ej
21 August 2008
A Very Full Day
I skipped my morning workout to make sure I made it into the office for about an hour before heading up to Oakland for Kelli's sealing. I thought this to be a good decision, since I was going to be missing so much work this week. I didn't know this meant I would be in heels from six thirty in the morning until I got home close to six in the evening!
I am all for getting dolled up, but I also love to be comfortable!!! As soon as I got home, I kicked off my heels and pretended to be interested in helping the missionaries and my roommates move things around in our garage. I was so wiped out, and I think suffering from a bit of dehydration that my efforts were frivolous indeed! The elders are due back on Friday, but I might have to reschedule as I will be having to come to the office Friday afternoon. =( Rent is due soon, so the hours will be nice on my paycheck!
Side note: I was sitting here at my desk enjoying the most wonderful mango! I thought perhaps I was just in need of whatever nutrients the mango contained, when my co-worker, Bud, asked "are they not the best mangoes???" I completely agreed with him and as he walked away he shouted "they are like candy!" This is truly the best mango I think I have ever had. Random, I know, but just felt the need to express the amazing-ness of the most delectable mango ever!!! :)
I just got another job working as a tennis instructor. I don't have all the details just yet, but I am excited to start in mid September! I got the job purely on references and have yet to meet my new employer! It is nothing serious, but I am very excited. I love coaching and teaching people about sports or hobbies I enjoy. Sharing my passion with others is such a great thing to me, and it is very fulfilling to watch people (especially children) learn and grow, and to see their own progress. Confidence shines brightly through their eyes, and posture! Confident people are attractive to me!
Kelli's Sealing...
I was so happy to be a part of her special day. It was a small intimate group in the temple for her sealing. I would like to have something very similar. I don't need to make it a huge hullabaloo. It's a very special thing and I would like to share it with those I am closest to. She had 15 people gathered around her all family, less me, and I felt honored to be there as her friend. Everyone came up to me and said, "you must be the friend." It was very tender. I also saw her parents for the first time, and I was impressed by them.
All the couples in the room were all holding hands from the time we started up the stairwell, and it was beautiful. The first thing said by the person about to marry Neil and Kelli, was to always hold hands, because it was a symbol of their love for each other. He also said that television has destroyed the way people view how conflict should be resolved. I was impressed by his words of counsel. They were not flowery, or well practiced. His words were humble, and close to his heart. During his words, he looked to his wife who was also in attendance and she always smiled back, with beaming eyes of adoration. It was better than in the movies. It was simple, and pure. I felt so much love in the room and it wasn't just love between the couple about to be married. The love of family, and friends, parents to children, and so on. It was a very deeply moving occasion. It is no wonder, I was so exhausted when I came home last night!
The mid-week BBQ...
I ended up passing out for a nap until almost nine o'clock! I was supposed to help Tia organize the garage, but that didn't exactly work out. We did, however, make it to the store to buy water and some other essentials. When I awoke from my nap, I noticed Tia struggling to BBQ some tri-tip. I offered my services to actually getting the meet cooked! HEH! Let's just say, she is great at prepping the food to be Q'd, but not necessarily great at getting the coals hot and the meat actually cooked. Our BBQ is kind of on the cheap side (a Wal-Mart special), so it takes some...finessing to really get the coals going. I had been using my cardboard fan, and until a few weeks ago, the elders and HC (Heather Carter), used the box fan. It was a lot less work to get the coals burning. After a few minutes of getting the coals burning with my fan, Tia ran to get the extension cord and we brought out the box fan! Fun times at the Bryan Avenue Pad!
The food ended up being pretty darn tasty, and we even put some fresh green beans in some foil, with a few splashes of olive oil, and fresh minced garlic and threw that on the grill as well. That is quite the mid-week feast if you ask me! Sigh...is it September yet???
NKOTB concert countdown...when will it begin??? Jessie has burned a NKOTB cd and put it in her car in preparation for the historic concert! I am getting excited!!!
ej
I am all for getting dolled up, but I also love to be comfortable!!! As soon as I got home, I kicked off my heels and pretended to be interested in helping the missionaries and my roommates move things around in our garage. I was so wiped out, and I think suffering from a bit of dehydration that my efforts were frivolous indeed! The elders are due back on Friday, but I might have to reschedule as I will be having to come to the office Friday afternoon. =( Rent is due soon, so the hours will be nice on my paycheck!
Side note: I was sitting here at my desk enjoying the most wonderful mango! I thought perhaps I was just in need of whatever nutrients the mango contained, when my co-worker, Bud, asked "are they not the best mangoes???" I completely agreed with him and as he walked away he shouted "they are like candy!" This is truly the best mango I think I have ever had. Random, I know, but just felt the need to express the amazing-ness of the most delectable mango ever!!! :)
I just got another job working as a tennis instructor. I don't have all the details just yet, but I am excited to start in mid September! I got the job purely on references and have yet to meet my new employer! It is nothing serious, but I am very excited. I love coaching and teaching people about sports or hobbies I enjoy. Sharing my passion with others is such a great thing to me, and it is very fulfilling to watch people (especially children) learn and grow, and to see their own progress. Confidence shines brightly through their eyes, and posture! Confident people are attractive to me!
Kelli's Sealing...
I was so happy to be a part of her special day. It was a small intimate group in the temple for her sealing. I would like to have something very similar. I don't need to make it a huge hullabaloo. It's a very special thing and I would like to share it with those I am closest to. She had 15 people gathered around her all family, less me, and I felt honored to be there as her friend. Everyone came up to me and said, "you must be the friend." It was very tender. I also saw her parents for the first time, and I was impressed by them.
All the couples in the room were all holding hands from the time we started up the stairwell, and it was beautiful. The first thing said by the person about to marry Neil and Kelli, was to always hold hands, because it was a symbol of their love for each other. He also said that television has destroyed the way people view how conflict should be resolved. I was impressed by his words of counsel. They were not flowery, or well practiced. His words were humble, and close to his heart. During his words, he looked to his wife who was also in attendance and she always smiled back, with beaming eyes of adoration. It was better than in the movies. It was simple, and pure. I felt so much love in the room and it wasn't just love between the couple about to be married. The love of family, and friends, parents to children, and so on. It was a very deeply moving occasion. It is no wonder, I was so exhausted when I came home last night!
The mid-week BBQ...
I ended up passing out for a nap until almost nine o'clock! I was supposed to help Tia organize the garage, but that didn't exactly work out. We did, however, make it to the store to buy water and some other essentials. When I awoke from my nap, I noticed Tia struggling to BBQ some tri-tip. I offered my services to actually getting the meet cooked! HEH! Let's just say, she is great at prepping the food to be Q'd, but not necessarily great at getting the coals hot and the meat actually cooked. Our BBQ is kind of on the cheap side (a Wal-Mart special), so it takes some...finessing to really get the coals going. I had been using my cardboard fan, and until a few weeks ago, the elders and HC (Heather Carter), used the box fan. It was a lot less work to get the coals burning. After a few minutes of getting the coals burning with my fan, Tia ran to get the extension cord and we brought out the box fan! Fun times at the Bryan Avenue Pad!
The food ended up being pretty darn tasty, and we even put some fresh green beans in some foil, with a few splashes of olive oil, and fresh minced garlic and threw that on the grill as well. That is quite the mid-week feast if you ask me! Sigh...is it September yet???
NKOTB concert countdown...when will it begin??? Jessie has burned a NKOTB cd and put it in her car in preparation for the historic concert! I am getting excited!!!
ej
12 August 2008
Early Morning Swim
Today, Jessie and I went for a nice swim at the gym. She was at my house at 0445 and we were in the pool not long after that. I managed to get in the pool with less difficulty, as the water seemed to be not as cold.
Per usual, I made my way into the pool with my "region by region" method. Ankles. Knees. Hips. Cover the goods, then go in up to my waist. Hold it there. Hold. Hold. Okay...hold...hold...bounce a bit...hold...consdier getting out and going home...hold...cover up the ladies with my hands and then...hold...hold...deep breath...hold it...hold it...GO!!! Exhale sharply in the water asking yourself "why oh why?" Then...come out of the water and be cool, so your friends don't know how badly you really wanted to run straight from the pool into the sauna for 20 seconds of warmth, then go home to your lonely and cold, but warmer than the pool bed.
As the swim lesson was ending, a lady came into the pool unaware of the written and unwritten "Rules of the Pool." A gentleman in the furthest from the steps lane, also referred to as a "swim lane" or "fast lane," politely explained to her that the "light swimming" or "walking" (more affectionately called "talking") lane was the lane closest to the steps and ladder. She walked over and sat on the steps and asked us if we were aware of any rules for the lanes. Being fairly well versed, Jessie and I recited them to her, and she said "I didn't know there were rules. I only saw the sign that says 20 minute time limit." She was a sweet lady, and I think having us relate the rules to her made her feel less like she was being pushed out by the bigger, stronger people in the fast lane. Since I was instructing Jessie on swimming techniques, this made "Lane One" the perfect choice for us. She then became happier and more at ease when we explained this to her.
When we returned to my house, I decided something to drink was in order. When I pulled the refrigerator door open, the pitcher of grape juice came flying out. The Nargles had booby trapped the juice!!! There was now a wonderful regal flowage of juice all over the floor and inside the refrigerator. I had the great opportunity to wipe everything down, and watch my sponge turn from green to purple-ish stained, and my poor t-shirt that just happened to be sitting on a chair that I used to absorb the main puddle with. Not sure how that is going to look later. Perhaps I'll get lucky and it will look like a "cool" tie dye shirt from the seventies...but different. We'll see!
The good news is that I remembered to bring my raqcuet bag to work with me today, as I have a singles match today with a lady at the club. =)
ej
Per usual, I made my way into the pool with my "region by region" method. Ankles. Knees. Hips. Cover the goods, then go in up to my waist. Hold it there. Hold. Hold. Okay...hold...hold...bounce a bit...hold...consdier getting out and going home...hold...cover up the ladies with my hands and then...hold...hold...deep breath...hold it...hold it...GO!!! Exhale sharply in the water asking yourself "why oh why?" Then...come out of the water and be cool, so your friends don't know how badly you really wanted to run straight from the pool into the sauna for 20 seconds of warmth, then go home to your lonely and cold, but warmer than the pool bed.
As the swim lesson was ending, a lady came into the pool unaware of the written and unwritten "Rules of the Pool." A gentleman in the furthest from the steps lane, also referred to as a "swim lane" or "fast lane," politely explained to her that the "light swimming" or "walking" (more affectionately called "talking") lane was the lane closest to the steps and ladder. She walked over and sat on the steps and asked us if we were aware of any rules for the lanes. Being fairly well versed, Jessie and I recited them to her, and she said "I didn't know there were rules. I only saw the sign that says 20 minute time limit." She was a sweet lady, and I think having us relate the rules to her made her feel less like she was being pushed out by the bigger, stronger people in the fast lane. Since I was instructing Jessie on swimming techniques, this made "Lane One" the perfect choice for us. She then became happier and more at ease when we explained this to her.
When we returned to my house, I decided something to drink was in order. When I pulled the refrigerator door open, the pitcher of grape juice came flying out. The Nargles had booby trapped the juice!!! There was now a wonderful regal flowage of juice all over the floor and inside the refrigerator. I had the great opportunity to wipe everything down, and watch my sponge turn from green to purple-ish stained, and my poor t-shirt that just happened to be sitting on a chair that I used to absorb the main puddle with. Not sure how that is going to look later. Perhaps I'll get lucky and it will look like a "cool" tie dye shirt from the seventies...but different. We'll see!
The good news is that I remembered to bring my raqcuet bag to work with me today, as I have a singles match today with a lady at the club. =)
ej
08 August 2008
“Do I get a gold star???” – Jessie Cruz on 01Aug08
For several months, my friend Jessie has been bugging me about getting to the gym for a swim. I used to “swim for fitness” some years ago when my good friend, Carleen, taught me to swim and do fun flip turns. A few weeks ago, I finally gave Jessie a call on my day off so we could hit the pool!
Normally, when a person invites me to swim at the gym, my understanding is that we are going to “swim for fitness” or swim laps. When I finally was submerged in the water and ready to go, I told Jessie that I was going to go light since it had been a long time since I had been swimming, and had played 3 hours of tennis earlier in the morning. “See you at the other end!” I told her and I was on my way!
I had decided not to wear contacts this day, so I was swimming a little blindly with my goggles, so I had asked Jessie to be my long distance eyes for me, since I may not notice someone getting into my lane. It’s a good thing I didn’t wear my Contacts that morning! As I reached the edge of the pool to see how my first lap went, I looked back to find Jessie. Despite my impaired vision, I could sense something was amiss. Had I had a better visual on what was going on halfway across the pool, I may have been panic-stricken. I almost shouted out “Put your feet down! It’s only four feet!” But, I refrained, just in case I was wrong.
A few moments later, Jessie walked over adjusting her shorts and goggles. I asked if she was okay, and she said she just needed to adjust and that she had swallowed a bit of water. I offered her my leg buoy so that she could start off slower and that I would do my regular swim. She accepted it gratefully, but didn’t know how to use it, so I showed her, and as she put her face in the water for no more than 3 seconds to watch the demonstration, and she somehow, swallowed more water! I blew it off, thinking she just “accidentally inhaled water.” No big deal, right?
We started back down to the other end of the pool. About halfway across the pool, I took a breath on my right side, only to see out of the corner of my goggles that Jessie was not near me. I pulled up, and looked back. This time, she was standing there staring at me. “Are you okay?” I asked. Then a short pause…”Yes. I am fine. Are you supposed to put your head in the water when you swim?” I didn’t know what to say except to answer in the affirmative. I told her, that it was customary to put your head in the water when you swim. I offered to give her a few pointers to make her swimming more…efficient.
She was happy to get some tips, so I immediately went into coaching mode and started at the Advanced Beginner level and gave her two things to work on. Face in the water looking slightly ahead and turning your head to the side to breathe. Off she went for about two strokes. I quickly grabbed her leg to stop. Trying to hide the panic in my voice, I asked, “Jessie, do you know how to swim?” Her response, I will never forget…”When the occasion calls for it.” I stood there for a moment stunned at what she had just said. After months of her bugging me to come to the gym, only to finally get there to find out she doesn’t even know how to swim, it took all my energy not to laugh uncontrollably in front of her. I was in coaching mode, I’m a pickin’ professional!
I gave her a few more tips and sent her on her way again. Second verse, same as the first! I grabbed her leg and stopped her again. “Jessie??? Do you know how to float?” I won’t go into what her response was, but let’s just say we spent the next 45 minutes teaching her how to float on her back and belly. When she finally was picking up the basics of floating, we worked on an easy floating/swim drill. After about 20 minutes, she finally was able to make it halfway across the pool. When she came out of the water she jumped up and asked, “Do I get a gold star???” This question pulled me right out of Coaching Mode, and right into Erika Mode. “A gold star? How about a gold kick to the face?” We both erupted into laughter and decided to call it a morning.
I am pleased to announce, that since this dreadful and scary morning, Jessie is now able to swim the length of the pool four times before taking on water, has learned the basics of the breast stroke and working to improve her form, as well as perform a flip turn 1 out of 5 attempts. She has really come along quickly, and has been getting up early every morning, to be at my house at 445-500 nearly every weekday morning! She chose this time of day, not I, just for the record.
Lesson learned: Never ASSuME when invited to go to the gym for a swim, that they mean swim laps for fitness, nor that the person doing the inviting, actually knows how to swim. You might need to call 4-1-1 to get the number for 9-1-1.
ej
Normally, when a person invites me to swim at the gym, my understanding is that we are going to “swim for fitness” or swim laps. When I finally was submerged in the water and ready to go, I told Jessie that I was going to go light since it had been a long time since I had been swimming, and had played 3 hours of tennis earlier in the morning. “See you at the other end!” I told her and I was on my way!
I had decided not to wear contacts this day, so I was swimming a little blindly with my goggles, so I had asked Jessie to be my long distance eyes for me, since I may not notice someone getting into my lane. It’s a good thing I didn’t wear my Contacts that morning! As I reached the edge of the pool to see how my first lap went, I looked back to find Jessie. Despite my impaired vision, I could sense something was amiss. Had I had a better visual on what was going on halfway across the pool, I may have been panic-stricken. I almost shouted out “Put your feet down! It’s only four feet!” But, I refrained, just in case I was wrong.
A few moments later, Jessie walked over adjusting her shorts and goggles. I asked if she was okay, and she said she just needed to adjust and that she had swallowed a bit of water. I offered her my leg buoy so that she could start off slower and that I would do my regular swim. She accepted it gratefully, but didn’t know how to use it, so I showed her, and as she put her face in the water for no more than 3 seconds to watch the demonstration, and she somehow, swallowed more water! I blew it off, thinking she just “accidentally inhaled water.” No big deal, right?
We started back down to the other end of the pool. About halfway across the pool, I took a breath on my right side, only to see out of the corner of my goggles that Jessie was not near me. I pulled up, and looked back. This time, she was standing there staring at me. “Are you okay?” I asked. Then a short pause…”Yes. I am fine. Are you supposed to put your head in the water when you swim?” I didn’t know what to say except to answer in the affirmative. I told her, that it was customary to put your head in the water when you swim. I offered to give her a few pointers to make her swimming more…efficient.
She was happy to get some tips, so I immediately went into coaching mode and started at the Advanced Beginner level and gave her two things to work on. Face in the water looking slightly ahead and turning your head to the side to breathe. Off she went for about two strokes. I quickly grabbed her leg to stop. Trying to hide the panic in my voice, I asked, “Jessie, do you know how to swim?” Her response, I will never forget…”When the occasion calls for it.” I stood there for a moment stunned at what she had just said. After months of her bugging me to come to the gym, only to finally get there to find out she doesn’t even know how to swim, it took all my energy not to laugh uncontrollably in front of her. I was in coaching mode, I’m a pickin’ professional!
I gave her a few more tips and sent her on her way again. Second verse, same as the first! I grabbed her leg and stopped her again. “Jessie??? Do you know how to float?” I won’t go into what her response was, but let’s just say we spent the next 45 minutes teaching her how to float on her back and belly. When she finally was picking up the basics of floating, we worked on an easy floating/swim drill. After about 20 minutes, she finally was able to make it halfway across the pool. When she came out of the water she jumped up and asked, “Do I get a gold star???” This question pulled me right out of Coaching Mode, and right into Erika Mode. “A gold star? How about a gold kick to the face?” We both erupted into laughter and decided to call it a morning.
I am pleased to announce, that since this dreadful and scary morning, Jessie is now able to swim the length of the pool four times before taking on water, has learned the basics of the breast stroke and working to improve her form, as well as perform a flip turn 1 out of 5 attempts. She has really come along quickly, and has been getting up early every morning, to be at my house at 445-500 nearly every weekday morning! She chose this time of day, not I, just for the record.
Lesson learned: Never ASSuME when invited to go to the gym for a swim, that they mean swim laps for fitness, nor that the person doing the inviting, actually knows how to swim. You might need to call 4-1-1 to get the number for 9-1-1.
ej
31 July 2008
Institute...yeah
I actually went to Institute last night. Yeah, that's right, me...moi...yo...I. I even received a text from someone just before class started, and when I told her where I was her response was "which one? class? who bribed u? this isn't the ej freelove i know going to institute." Yeah, for some reason I've always had this beef with wanting to attend institute.
Actually, it was mostly the fact that I have always felt uncomfortable at the institute building downtown. I have been working to overcome this and have done so by preparing for the lesson every week, regardless if I go or not. The Institute director, has been sending out an email with a link to the talk that will be discussed, and I have done my best to read it and be prepared, just in case I manage to make it to class. There have been times where I have actually been driving and about to turn on the street, and have received a phone call that led me away.
Last night, I actually made it and stayed until eight. I got a phone call that helped me to decide that it was time to depart. But that's not the point. I went to Institute, and not only that, but I was prepared and read the talk ahead of time. I have been making the goal to participate at least once during a lesson to be supportive of the teacher. I try not to force, but follow the Spirit and share when prompted, but when you're prepared, you can almost always feel prompted to participate. It's been very rewarding to prepare for the class even if I don't go, and last night was good for me.
I played tennis twice yesterday, once by myself (or with the Tennis Twist), and once with my friend, Brian. He called at the end of Institute, so we met up to play. I really needed to drill yesterday, so working with the Twist was good for me. I still need a lot of work on my backhand and such, but it is coming along. Brian and I played at Wallenberg park until the lights went off at 1015. It was way fun and I totally lost track of the time.
We did the usual warm up of serves, played a set, then just hit around and kind of did this progressive hitting thing. Usually, you do a similar thing to warm up, but we kind of did it a bit differently, but building up the intensity. He's improving rather quickly, and it's great to see! I need some competition to help get me ready for the season!
I must confess...as I was leaving the club yesterday, Ken (the Club Pro), stopped me in the parking lot and chit chatted a bit as he was driving away. It kind of stroked my little tennis ego a bit, that fact that he had observed me drilling over in my little corner of the club. =)
ej
Actually, it was mostly the fact that I have always felt uncomfortable at the institute building downtown. I have been working to overcome this and have done so by preparing for the lesson every week, regardless if I go or not. The Institute director, has been sending out an email with a link to the talk that will be discussed, and I have done my best to read it and be prepared, just in case I manage to make it to class. There have been times where I have actually been driving and about to turn on the street, and have received a phone call that led me away.
Last night, I actually made it and stayed until eight. I got a phone call that helped me to decide that it was time to depart. But that's not the point. I went to Institute, and not only that, but I was prepared and read the talk ahead of time. I have been making the goal to participate at least once during a lesson to be supportive of the teacher. I try not to force, but follow the Spirit and share when prompted, but when you're prepared, you can almost always feel prompted to participate. It's been very rewarding to prepare for the class even if I don't go, and last night was good for me.
I played tennis twice yesterday, once by myself (or with the Tennis Twist), and once with my friend, Brian. He called at the end of Institute, so we met up to play. I really needed to drill yesterday, so working with the Twist was good for me. I still need a lot of work on my backhand and such, but it is coming along. Brian and I played at Wallenberg park until the lights went off at 1015. It was way fun and I totally lost track of the time.
We did the usual warm up of serves, played a set, then just hit around and kind of did this progressive hitting thing. Usually, you do a similar thing to warm up, but we kind of did it a bit differently, but building up the intensity. He's improving rather quickly, and it's great to see! I need some competition to help get me ready for the season!
I must confess...as I was leaving the club yesterday, Ken (the Club Pro), stopped me in the parking lot and chit chatted a bit as he was driving away. It kind of stroked my little tennis ego a bit, that fact that he had observed me drilling over in my little corner of the club. =)
ej
29 July 2008
Matt finally has a girlfriend!!!
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
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
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
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