A Day in the Life of Seattle

...keeping up with the Shankmans...

2009-08-08T18:27:00.000-07:00

I feel like I spend so much time communicating through texts, tweets and status updates...I would say I dedicate an average of 18 to 19 hours a day linked into some constant communication...that means every waking hour I'm linked in.

Maybe I'm doing it incorrectly, but I feel like I can never keep up with people like Shankman. Maybe that's my failing though, feeling a need to keep up with people who have the ability to dedicate so much time to it. They've been able to monetize what they do, and I hope someday to be able to do the same.

So for the time being I should be doing is accessing how I'm spending my time, and making sure when I am online I'm doing something of value. As it is with food, gorging on the junk (it's too delish to avoid!) is always immediately satisfactory...and well, much easier. But that doesn't help me stay relevant in the SM space and where I want to be. I'm working on it, it's just a process. I've said it before... and you all know I'll say it again. I need to blog more.

But blogging for me was always a way to get out the ongoings of my life, a place to have fun, share wit and vent. My need to keep up by writing solely about social media has gotten me even further behind though...it's made me not write at all. Balance. All things in life are a balance. Learning...learning....but here's a nugget of yesteryear's blog....prepare yourself:

...I got back from another tour on the road, and it always amazes me how traveling so much for a social media campaign can keep me so out of touch with my friends/family. But, that's the thing I don't think people understand about touring as much as I try to explain it...it's literally all consuming. Everything outside of it is put on hold. That's what is hard for me. Putting on hold working out, putting on hold healthy eating, putting on hold my friends and my family. I gained weight this time...lost last. I'll get there. This is life, I have to keep telling myself that.

I saw my grandparents while I was in Massachusetts before the tour, though. So good to see them. I wish I could see them more often. My nonna showed me the drawers and drawers of baby sweaters (for future reference and an ever so gentle push for great grandchildren) and she also told me I could have her wedding gown (if/when I chose to get married....another gentle push, I'm sure). Got me thinking though, I need to spend more time with family...brothers for sure. Man, I miss them.

Alright, I'm wrapping this up before I get too emo. Speak soon...well. I say that anyway. Guess we'll see.

Take two (technically three)..

2009-07-18T09:10:00.001-07:00

Starting Tuesday I'll be kicking off my third cross country tour on Warped Tour. If you weren't tuned in last time, I trekked across the US on the Bamboozle Roadshow and followed it up with the Rockin' Rodeo for a few days. I sense this one is going to be much harder. And not just because of the heat either. I'm worried about making an impact, sourcing and contributing great content, and making it worthwhile experience...stay tuned.

...lots of Twitter tips out there...but if you had to give one..

2009-07-13T18:00:00.001-07:00

As the microblogging community evolves, more and more "social media experts" are trying to put in their two-cents of how the online community should play out, what are "great" case studies and what are failures. I spend a lot of time reading articles, trying to find different opinions and executions in order to try and formulate my own opinion on this social media thing...and today after reading several articles on Twitter "tips" I took it to my own network.

"Network," I say:

And the network spoke:

kristy: Observe - watch and listen to learn.

dylanw: If a hot girl follows you, follow her back, because she's totally into you. #badtwittertips

jcroft: Twitter tip: don't be a webcock. Why? Because webcocks suck.

PRCog: fill in the bio before u start fllwing.

PeterKretzman: My 1 Twitter tip: write what you think will be interesting to others, NOT what you're doing right now (despite the prompt)

CoolGuyGreg: that there is no real benefit to folow everyone who follow you. Find those you have a true interest in wht they have to say

manningsmith: 1 tip: be intentional about all online communication. what do you want to accomplish with your tweets. what don't you want?

cj_alexander: Use Tweetdeck's Groups to make sense of the twitstream firehose, otherwise it's just too much above about 50 follows...

dave_lo: Stay with it. Twitter gets good, but u have to take time to build up a network
about an hour ago

mbull: Understand what u want to do w/ Twitter before starting. Don't do it just to do Twitter. Embarrassment could follow.
about an hour ago

caferozella: Give value in your tweets. That's how you get followers and engage.
about an hour ago

Commodoros: be sure to use 140 characters or less.

alboss: My twittertip: "Follow because you win fabulous prizes." Speaking of which, mine must be lost in the mail. (Hahah, this may be my favorite.)

KarianneStinson: know why you want to use Twitter, what you hope to gain. It will guide all you do & give you direction.

All really great tips...but the number one tip I took away? Easy. Listen to your network!

No more excuses

2009-06-26T23:36:00.000-07:00

I'd be lying if I said I didn't have time to blog. It's absolutely true that over the past 6 months I've been going through a tremendous transition in my life. I went through a break up, living alone, going on tour with bands, refining my work self and my personal self.

This week was hell. It was one of those weeks where something goes wrong and then you perpetuate in misery. Internalizing everything that was going wrong only made me more miserable and then I was finally smacked in the face with the glorious outside forces of those around me. The death of two celebrities, two of my friends going through divorces, two of my friends' pregnancy....much needed perspective, but still feeling clouded so forgive my disconnected writing.

I've hated my lack of blogging. As someone who works and LOVES working in the social media space, it's embarrassing. I should be aggregating more of what I find interesting and contributing content to the space. I want to, I need to in order to grow.

So I've said it before, but I've never put reminders in my calendar -- I will speak with you more frequently. Let you know personal and professional ongoings...make you once again familiar with me. Because I'm oh-so-interesting. :)

Looking forward to it, but for now I need sleep. I have to move in the morning. Which you know nothing about because I haven't talked to you in so long. Briefly: Moving to Magnolia from Lower Queen Anne. Half the rent, acquiring a roommate. Blarg.

Okay, more later. I won't promise, but I promise I want to improve myself...and writing, I believe, will help me get there.

Microblogging Mayhem

2009-02-11T09:47:00.001-08:00

Okay, I told you and promised you that I wouldn't let microblogging take you away from me....but it seems I've been moderately distracted. Please accept my electronic flower as a sincere apology @---->--- ...but here's the thing.

I love Tweeting. I love saying what I need to say in 140 characters. I love just putting it out there and moving on. I live a busy life, and with Twitterfon loaded up to the good ol' iPhone, tweetin' on the go helps me stay in touch. But, the truth. I LOVE blogging. I love writing and knowing people are reading.

So, I'm going to come back to you. I'm going to make the effort, no I'm going to write for all of you every other day, if not more often. Yeah? How's that sound? Awesome.

As an FYI to you kind folk, here's a couple things that have kept me distracted from you:

www.totemsawards.com - PRSA Puget Sounds' awards are tonight and I'm chair
www.coldpavement.com - A networking group for communications professionals that I've co-founded with a friend
www.twitter.com/jessicarandazza - Enough said

Personal life note: I'll be in NYC Saturday - Tuesday hanging out with friends for President's Day weekend. Share pictures and stories soon!

What's your writing style? Mine is garbage!

2009-01-21T21:01:00.000-08:00

Okay, so you know well enough that I am a huge geek. No hiding it, I love writing, I love reading, and I love spending hours and hours on the Internet reading absolutely pointless nothing. I'm fortunate enough that my job completely caters to my geek-dom. Today we had a PR writing class to learn how to become more effective writers. Now, I'm going to give you some tips that he gave us, but you must promise me not to read what I just wrote in this paragraph and judge me for not implementing these techniques. I'm tired, and I just really want to make sure you have this pertinent information. So take it and quick judging me.

Ahem.

Five simple rules for clear writing (which you think you knew, but may have forgotten):
1. Focus on key messages
2. Fewer and shorter words
3. Use visual verbs
4. Active voice...weeee.
5. REVIEW AND EDIT

After going over key messages and trying to write an entire op-ed piece in just one syllable words, I realized how verbose my writing has become. What's funny is I feel like I always make exceptions for the client thinking, "Oh, no this is just their style, how they like it." Then it hit me: that's just because that's how I supply the writing.

One of the coolest things I got from the workshop was a super handy link.... BullFighter. The service looks at sentence structure in Microsoft Word (it only works in XP, not Vista and not Mac) and flags where complicated words should be simplified for readers. It's based on the Flesch-Kincaid readability scale which you can test by dropping in your written documents, releases, etc. here.

So I went to back to my desk after the class to a release open on my desktop that was in progress only to find out that I'm the worst writer, ever. The good news is now, however, that I have a 25 page booklet from the class teaching me how to improve.

So as always, look for great things.

How to become awesome

2009-01-18T20:21:00.000-08:00

Since I've begin to spend a fair amount of time in the Twitterverse I've been brushed by a lot of social media awesomeness and its put a little fire under me to become more informed (which means even less sleep) and help find interesting and new content that will be pertinent to my agency and my clients.

Tonight I had the opportunity to speak with @PRSarahEvans who is really leading the way in the social media/digital PR realm. She provides great content and runs a weekly dialog on Twitter on Monday nights (7pm CST) called #journchat which allows bloggers, PR folks and journalists to collaborate on a number of issues from social media to pitching to media dying, etc.

I asked her straight out how to become awesome, and while I knew most of this, the affirmation certainly lit a fire. Here's what she suggested:

Follow @themediaisdying, @skydiver, @breakingnewson and of course @mashable. All of which I am proud to say were already on my list.

Check out great sources multiple times a day:
Mashable - All That's New On The Web
TechCrunch
All Top -All the Top Stories in PR

Ahhh, so much work to be cool. Alright, I have to get to it. Have a good night.

The afternoon crash...

2009-01-16T00:41:00.000-08:00

For those of you who are particularly familiar with my daily schedule (actually come to think of it you don't have to be that familiar at all) you know these things about me:

1. I love the mornings. Really do. Puffins, coffee, new start
2. I don't sleep much which is taking its toll day by day
3. I am a freaking brat in the afternoon. Kindergartener without their nap, kind of brat. Or as my mother calls it "Bratty McPhee."

Starting the day at 4 am yesterday morning brought my afternoon brat syndrome into the 11 am hour full force and I started to become emo to the nth degree. Someone unfollowed me on Twitter and it set me into orbit and kicked into gear my inner Debbie Downer and negative self-talk(which I am REALLY good at). Getting unfollowed in Twitter is like getting picked last in kickball, proof that you provide no real help to the group and they are probably better off with out you. Then after a firm handslap at work, I started to crash and decided the only thing I could do was step out to a nice lunch with a close friend.

The lunch kicked off with me venting every single thing that was wrong in my world, which surprisingly only took about 20 minutes, and then that's when the handslap went to a slap across my face. US Airways flight 1549 went down in the Hudson River with 155 passengers on board and I realized, "Jess, things could be a lot worse. Unfollowed on Twitter does not equal plane crash into frigid river."

The contempt I had for Twitter yesterday morning soon turned back into love as my phone lit up with tweets from my favorite Tweeple about the latest information on the crash and suddenly that one person, the morning handslap and the exhaustion I felt from waking up at 4 am didn't seem like that big of a deal and everything was up hill from there.

New start, new year, social media, I <3 you

2009-01-14T08:58:00.000-08:00

So I've been gone quite awhile, an embarrassing amount of time actually. I have a confession, sweet blog-o-mine....I fell in love with microblogging.

But then with all good things guilt eventually sets in. "I've been neglected my readers and my blog for so long, how could I ever consider myself a 'social media manager.' It's just so hard to maintain. So very, very hard." The guilt landed me in a long conversation with co-founder of luckystartups.com
Aronado (who if you don't know I completely admire in the social media space), who gave me some great tips on blogging. While some of these might not be his words exactly, this is what I took away from the great conversation:

*Keep it shorter, more likely to write more often
*Write about things you're passionate about
*Make it fun
*Change it up to keep you and your readers interested.

So, with the start of year of the OX I resolve to become a better blogger. Lots of great content coming your way...stay tuned. In the meantime feel free to entertain yourself with Jackson Pollock.

Learning how to be gracious....

2008-11-30T21:19:00.000-08:00

I've been thinking about writing for awhile, but every time I started to write an entry it just didn't feel right. I wanted to create an ode to all the things I'm thankful for, and when I started to think about it the list got longer and longer and each being so in depth they started to feel like they were deserving of their own entry, and that would take years to construct. So I've narrowed it down (slightly) and created a list with snippets of explanation -- none of which will even come close to explaining how grateful I am, but if any of them have to do with you, know that this year was incredible thanks to you. So here we go...

1. My mom - for her love post-its, treats for me, listening to me vent and being basically the best mom ever.
2. My brothers

Each is completely unique and incredibly giving. S for giving my my car and being patient and being a great friend when I need one. J for always talking me up, for making my laugh and helping inspire and build on my ideas. Both are so supportive and I could never thank them enough.
3. C

So giving and loving. Words couldn't even come close to expressing all you've done for me this year.
4. All of my incredible friends. I have SO many wonderful friends. My zero friend Mary, my "sister" Carolyn, my kindred spirit Div, my humor Darci, my Seattle savior Chirag, my reflecting wall
Amanda, my strength Rachel, my mentor Ashley, my heart Michelle, my confidante Adrienne, my cheerleader Carson, my inspiration Wacarra. Just to name a few. I am so, so lucky to have you all. And of course my hundreds of other amazingly wonderful friends that have helped shape the person I am today.
5. Family - My grandparents, my cousins, my aunts and uncles. All have given me so much it would take me 24 years to explain all you've done for me.
6. Susan - she makes me so happy, every single day.
7. My work - as much as I might complain, it's really a great place to work. I'm given great opportunity, respected and treated well. Plus, I work with great people.
8. Lounge music - the joy that Rufus Wainwright, Sinatra, Buble, Regina Spektor, Kate Nash bring me....they make me Merry Happy.
9. Having infinite paths ahead of me - whether it's school or my dreams of becoming a FN star, there is so much opportunity that is just waiting for me. Not everyone is lucky enough to have that.
10. Flowers - I've been given flowers so many times this year and every time they make me so happy!

Okay, I could go on forever, but I don't want to make your mind explode or bore you. So thank you all, for everything. Great year because of your kind, beautiful hearts!

A piece of Paris

2008-11-22T22:21:00.000-08:00

C and I walked around the market today and slipped into a store down Virginia that I've never seen before. An adorable accessory store and I'm not sure how I ever missed it. Besides it being tremendously overpriced, it had some fantastically beautiful headbands. Which, of course, you know I love. Since they were $75 a pop, I figured I'd admire them and potentially make some myself. Here's kinda what they looked like..

Since I already have a black one, I figure I could use a red one and perhaps a pink one and another really beautifully ridiculous one. Ah, I love ridiculousness.

When we walked out of the store I stumbled across another store I had never seen before -- tucked away in a courtyard nook, so happily situated I forgot for a moment that I was in Seattle. All of a sudden, I found myself in Paris.

A Parisian soap store, so beautiful, I found myself trolling the aisles sniffing every candle and bar, soaking it all in. The attendant welcomed us, and offered us a mimosa in celebration of their 10 year anniversary.

We sipped on our mimosas, admired artwork and old 1925 watch gadget cuff links, and settled on a candled called "joy" which smells like Christmas and rendered exactly that feeling.

Needless to say, the store was quiet a find and make me well....

...so(ul) happy!

After we left we headed down to the market for a bit longer, and passed by vendors and admired their wares. We headed to Pink Door for a late lunch. Perfect pumpkin pasta, so amazing that I disregarded my better judgement and ate all of it without thinking about the calories. Meh.

We walked down 1st Avenue to The Big Picture to watch the new Bond film. I love Bond films, and while the action was definitely up to par, the plot was lacking and left me aching for the good ol' Pierce.

After the movie we headed back home, picked up a beautiful Audrey Hepburn poster and a coupled used CDS including one from Lynam (one of my favorite garage bands from back home) at Easy Street Records.

And then when I got home I instantly fell asleep for awhile and now...I can't sleep. I'm going to watch American Beauty and try to fall asleep for a early morning brunch with the girls.

Now and then..

2008-11-20T19:14:00.000-08:00

A lot of pictures from the past have made their way into circulation in the past couple days, and at first it freaked me out...but then I thought about it. How cool is that people have pictures of me from the days of yesteryear? A girl that I was friends with growing up, but haven't talked to recently posted a picture of me on Facebook yesterday.

Again, freaked me out. I mean when the hell was this taken? What am I doing? Girl Scouts? No she wasn't in my GS troop...uhhh band? Oh God, there are people out there that have pictures of me in BAND. How embarrassing.

But, then there were really good pictures from old school times. My aunt passed along a picture today that made me feel a little nostalgic...either that or miss my family. Anyway, here it is:

So, anyone else out there have random pictures of me they'd like to pass along? I'd love to see them...with the exception of anything you have to share, Mom. I don't need to see those, and neither does anyone else.

Anyway, good night.

GMATTACK

2008-11-19T14:59:00.000-08:00

...I'm trying to spend a bit more time studying for my GMAT that is rapidly approaching, but I have to admit, I'm finding it really hard. I need to learn to go somewhere where I don't have Internet connection, where I can't watch television and leave the iPhone behind and I need to do it soon. I'm having a really hard time with some of the math concepts, because well, I haven't really used math in the past 5 years. At least not the kind I need to know in order to pass this exam.

If you didn't take math courses in college(I took one, literally uno), the math section of the test is especially important to excel in, since it is the only way the school you're applying to can see if you measure up. As it stands right now, I don't quite measure up. And when I finally really accepted that fact last night, I nearly had a GMATtack-probably the worst kind of panic attack possible. Luckily, I had my friend come over to watch Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2 in order to calm my nerves and completely distract me from studying. Oh, yes, I'm a hero.

Anyway, if I don't kick it into gear soon, I promise you can take my GMAT books and beat me with them as long as you call an ambulance so I can get some fast stitches.

Thank you very much for your poll votes. It looks as though you proved my boyfriend wrong, which I thoroughly enjoy. Hmph.

Side note: A poll..

2008-11-18T15:14:00.001-08:00

Okay, quick poll readers:

Do I look mad or focused? Please comment back your thoughts.

A fear from deep within..

2008-11-18T14:25:00.000-08:00

As I was walking through Seattle's early morning fog/mist this morning on my way to work, on a day like any other, I saw it - something I find so disturbing that it makes my skin crawl just to think about it. To the normal person, you might think, "You're such a weirdo, what the heck is wrong with you?" But to me, seeing the bushy tail gray squirrel with it's big teethy fangs, running all over the tree in it's rabies-crazed behavior says one thing - "Beware."

It's true, I'm scared of squirrels..not in the same way you'd be scared of someone coming into your house in the middle of the night, or even walking through a dark alley allow, but it's the unpredictability of them that makes me feel a bit uncomfortable. It started a long time ago and it began with ferrets. I mean, I HATE ferrets and in my mind the two critters are closely aligned and simply up to no good.

Countless stories I've read on the Internet or experience first hand have validated my fear time and time again -- my friend was hospitalized from squirrel bites once, not that I have any sympathy because she was stupid enough to keep it as a pet, but whatever. My classes at UA were once canceled for 3 days because a squirrel gnawed through the power lines, causing a major outage. Up to no good, I tell you.

But seeing that squirrel on the way to work this morning got me thinking about irrational fears, and I realized I have A LOT of them. Some of them I wasted a tremendous amount of time worrying about them when I can't control them, and others are just something I need to get over.

* Fear of the economy (like I can do a damn thing about it, all I can do is hoard away my money and hope for the best).
* Fear of feet(used to be ridiculously bad a few years ago, but I'm pretty much over it)
* Fear of failing (the good news is that I'm the turnkey element to determining my success)
* Fear of not figuring out what I want to do in life (okay, does anyone really know? Please, tell me?)
* Fear of never seeing the world (...I can make this happen...eventually)
* Fear of never being near my family again (Again, I can make this happen, just take time)
* Fear of the unknown (Ah, yes. Completely irrational. Good, Jessica, good.)
* Fear of spiders (Okay, I'm not calling this one irrational. It's perfectly legit. And I'm convinced it's the way I'm going out. Spider bite, right to my heart.)
* Fear of not leaving a legacy (Okay, here's the good news...I have lots of great friends, who talk about me on occasion, so if I don't have one after a spider comes to kill me, at least I have people talking about me while I'm alive.
* Fear of lack of knowledge (I'm just afraid of being the dumb one, not knowing, needing to be the one in the know all the time, it's hard to keep up)
* Fear of missing America's Next Top Model (it's on tomorrow night and I have a PRSA meeting, God help me!)

As you can see, mostly irrational or something I just need to get the hell over. And I will, I hope, all in good time.

A new haircut

2008-11-12T22:30:00.000-08:00

Writing my first entry via iPhone so let's get straight to it---I need a haircut bad. Now you're probably thinking "what are you talking about Jess your hair is the cutest EVER." While that might be true, I am not talking about my hair...I need a professional haircut. A little bit of time in the business etiquette salon would do me good.

It's not that I perceive myself as rude, or a bad professional... its just that I need to snip the edge off my "know-it-all" attitude that has recently grown because if I don't, it's going to get me into trouble.

It's hard after working somewhere for nearly two years (can you believe I've been here for almost two years?!) to not have that matter-of-fact attitude. But with more and more articles reigning in about job loss and the economy, it seems like professionalism (and if clients love you) is the only think that is keeping people employed. Now, I haven't seen job loss close to me, none of my friends have lost their job and while the Seattle economy certainly isn't booming, it's not getting the blow as hard as the rest of the country (at least it seems that way). But something tells me it's only a matter of time before the wave crashes on the Seattle shores and knocking people out along the way.

I'm want to become a better professional for myself, though. I want to tidy up because I'm worth improving, becoming a better me is worth every effort. I want to become a better professional because people expect it from me and more importantly, I expect it from me.

So give me a little bit of time to chop off some spilt ends, and I'll be coming out with a fresh new 'do.

oops! Veteran Day side note

2008-11-11T07:47:00.000-08:00

Before I hop off to enjoy my Puffins, I wanted to thank all of you veterans for giving your time and lives to help protect us -- most importantly my wonderful brother, S. He was in the Navy for 8 years of active duty, and I believe (I need to call him to confirm) he went into the recruiter yesterday to sign up to be in the reserves. He is what you would call, my hero.

Of course, thank you as well to my wonderful Nonno who served in the military for years as well during the Korean War and Lord knows what else.

To my friend, T, who has already gone through one tour in Iraq and will soon go back for more.

To my friends N and M who guarded in a dangerous area in Djibouti while they served as Marines, thank you.

To my friend J, who has gone through two tours in Iraq -- thank you.

To the gentleman, W, I interviewed when he won $1 Million in the Lottery and is now serving his third tour in the guard in Iraq - thank you.

And to all other militia, thank you, thank you, thank you.

Happy Birthday C...and thank you Veterans, including my brother S

2008-11-11T07:32:00.000-08:00

I've been awake for hours...while I had my alarm set earlier than normal this morning (around 5:30ish), my precious darling cat Susan decided at 5:23 am that she wanted to check and see if my eye lids tasted as good as she remembered -- I hope they did, because I was only slightly amused. It is hard to get mad, though, even at 5:23 am when you're greeted with the most adorable little face that looks like this

Now I might be a biased cat lover, but Susan Belle is freaking adorable, yes? Anyway, once I saw that face the frustration quickly subsided and I just closed my eyes and let her have her way with my eye lids. *sigh*

Today is C's birthday. Because he is incapable of waiting, he's already opened all of his presents and eaten some of his cake -- so we did a good portion of the celebrating last night. I got him a Pentax 1000 35mm camera, a flash for it, some film, a book on becoming the best photographer ever and a couple other little treats. Tonight we're going to La Carta de Oaxaca (http://www.lacartadeoaxaca.com/), which claims to be some of the best Mexican food in Seattle. Apparently the place is packed all the time, and don't even bother calling for a reservation because they don't answer their phone EVER. I'll let you know how it turns out.

Alright, we'll it's Puffin (http://www.worldpantry.com/cgi-bin/ncommerce3/ProductDisplay?prmenbr=587770&prrfnbr=892330&pcgrfnbr=881894) time! I suggest you go out and get your own box, and some raspberries too...and maybe some Splenda Mist (which is totally my new favorite thing and I got my sample bottle for free thanks to Hungry Girl...check this out and you might be able to snatch a bottle still:http://www.totallyfreestuff.com/index.asp?ID=18076). Basically the COOLEST thing ever.

Alright, I'm out.

Holding on to the weekend...

2008-11-09T22:01:00.000-08:00

It amazes me every week how quickly weekends pass by, and I always wish they were longer, there was more of them, that I was less busy on weekends so I could sit on my death couch (yes, I still have that god forsaken thing) and watch hours and hours of mindless programming. Ah, yes, that's what I call being productive.

I am fortunate enough to seemingly (at least lately) always have really enjoyable weekends. Friday night C and I went to go watch our friend perform in Bat Boy at the Second Story theater in Redmond. She was incredible. The play, if you're familiar is a little over the top and based on the Weekly World News tabloid reports in the early 1990s. Although full of blood, violence, incest and interspecies sex....it was perfect. After the show we went with a few of the cast members to McMenamins.

Yesterday C and I walked around downtown and went to lunch with a couple of our friends at Pike Brewery. I got a new pair of jeans from Nordstrom Rack, and then we headed home to get ready for C's birthday dinner with his dad and step mom at Metropolitan Grill. We took a ridiculous limo that looked something like this

and had an inside cabin like this

down to the restaurant. Food was amazing. I had ahi tuna, calamari, the most outstanding halibut I've ever had and these garlic mashed potatoes that basically I would sacrifice my right eye for. Okay, no I take that back, I really wouldn't but they were very good.

Today some how managed to slip by quickly -- Sundays always do that. I build them up with the best intentions to clean, study, do research on graduate schools...and it never f'ing happens. I have to get it together or I'm never going back to school. But because I always end up so unproductive on Sundays I always wish the weekend was longer, if I had just one more day to get it done...I hold on so tight to them...dreading yet another manic Monday. Man, I'm already getting a super bad case of the Mondays.

Anyway, so holding on to the weekend today got me thinking...it's not the weekend I'm trying to hold on to, it's just a past life in general, a life where things make sense...I feel like I haven't had that in awhile. Okay, okay, not that my life isn't good because it is -- I have an amazing bf, great friends here, a completely insane and adorable cat, a good job where I'm respected...I don't know, it's just so hard to evolve. Hard to watch my friends evolve on complete opposite sides of the country, hard to not be near my family and evolve together...just hard. But after holding on to weekend after weekend, I finally decided today to let go. I'm missing so much life by spending time revisiting the past instead of living in my the present and planning for my future. Hopefully learning to let go is something I'll be able to hold on to.. I'll let you know next weekend.

The Times They Are A Changin'

2008-11-05T21:29:00.000-08:00

So it might be 45 years since Bob Dylan wrote one of his most famous songs, but with Obama being our new president-elect and his campaign for "change", this song keeps coming to mind. I thought I'd put it to the test line by line to see if it holds any relevance today, or if I'm just trying to be deep. Or if I just love Bob Dylan, which I do. Alright, here we go.

Come gather 'round people - Yes, that works for today, people can still gather 'round. To make it more timely, our opposing political parties need to gather together.

Wherever you roam - People all over the nation, yes good.

And admit that the waters
Around you have grown - With global warming the ice caps are melting, making more water. Hah, okay, yes we have a rift in our nation.

And accept it that soon
You'll be drenched to the bone. - If you live in the Pacific Northwest you're always drenched to the bone, Bobby. But knowing you grew up in MN, you probably weren't referencing that.

If your time to you
Is worth savin' - We just had daylight savings time to do this very thing!
Then you better start swimmin'
Or you'll sink like a stone - Uhhh....
For the times they are a-changin'. - OBAMA!

Come writers and critics
Who prophesize with your pen - Political analysts? Journalists? Everyone interested in the election?
And keep your eyes wide
The chance won't come again - You can only cast your vote once, or something.
And don't speak too soon
For the wheel's still in spin - it kind of stopped spinning yesterday, although I guess my life is still spinning. To MBA or not to MBA?
And there's no tellin' who
That it's namin'. - It named Obama...and MBA? Or.....no MBA?...MBA? Dizzy...
For the loser now - MBA?...No...McCain?
Will be later to win - Palin?! God, no.
For the times they are a-changin'. - OBAMA!

Come senators, congressmen - McCain, Obama
Please heed the call - "Run for president!"
Don't stand in the doorway - French doors are becoming more popular on HGTV, maybe to solve this problem. It'd be hard for someone to block two doors...
Don't block up the hall - Thanks to WW, I lost enough weight to no block too many hallways..
For he that gets hurt
Will be he who has stalled - uhhh...stalling...please no one hit me. Oh wait, I got it! McCain postponing campaigning to "help with the economic crisis." Analysts are saying it's one of his biggest campaign mistakes. That and Palin.
There's a battle outside
And it is ragin'. - Raining a little bit outside...imagine that. Rain in Seattle? No f'ing way.
It'll soon shake your windows
And rattle your walls - Susan, my precious cat keeps running into the walls ans rattling them a bit. At least rattling my nerves.
For the times they are a-changin'. - OBAMA!

Come mothers and fathers
Throughout the land
And don't criticize
What you can't understand - Okay, I took this one four lines. Actually really relevant. Not that my mom is critical at all, she's lovely. But my mother and father are on the other side of the land, and my dad mentioned his varying political stance...
Your sons and your daughters
Are beyond your command - and my mom, while she is lovely, is a mom who is learning to mother an adult daughter. I think it's an ongoing learning curve, poor mom.
Your old road is
Rapidly agin'. - Uhhh...parts of my street could definitely stand to be repaved. And so could our economy.
Please get out of the new one
If you can't lend your hand - Hm.
For the times they are a-changin'. - OBAMA!

The line it is drawn
The curse it is cast - Maybe some witchy people casting spells on people on Halloween? Uh, nevermind.
The slow one now
Will later be fast - I'm getting tired....but tomorrow morning...I'll be so fast all you'll see is blur biznitches.
As the present now
Will later be past - ...that ellipses was written...in the past.
The order is
Rapidly fadin'. - I am too....
And the first one now
Will later be last - I'm pretty sure I lost my own challenge to be deep at this point...damn it. Maybe if I just get a fresh thought on it tomorrow...I'll come up with something so totally thought provoking it will BLOW YOUR MIND.
For the times they are a-changin'. - OBAMA!

Okay, good night. Sorry you had to endure that. Very, very, very sorry.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN - CONGRATS CONTEST WINNER!

2008-10-31T16:11:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween to you all! A very exciting day here in the rainy city, filled with, well, rain.

After much deliberation, my mother has chosen a contest winner. It wasn't easy, we had a number of super scary photographs!

Here's what dear ol' mom had to say about our winner:

"Um hey so, not one of those photos comes close to the gruesomeness of your picture that you took...I mean that picture will never be matched. But of the group...Vida would be the kinda of 'cute-scary.' The runner up would be the last picture of Amanda (she submitted three), but you can tell she's clearly beautiful."

So VIDA is our winner! What has he won? He's won an awesome gift certificate to Amazon along with some other great prizes. Amanda might be getting something too, for putting forth such effort.

Once I receive permission from our winner and runner-up, I'll post those winning pictures up on the site for all to see.

Thank you for your submissions. Be safe and have a great Halloween.

Last day to enter contest..

2008-10-30T13:54:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone, just wanted to remind you that today is the last day to enter in the worst picture of you contest! Please submit your photograph to jessica.randazza@gmail.com by midnight PST tonight to qualify!

All images will be judged by my mother!

Being Southern

2008-10-28T16:49:00.000-07:00

I wonder when the "pride" associated with being Southern is going to wear off. It's strange that I adore it so much and I feel the need to fit it in to every conversation that I'm engaged in. I'm sure it's bo-ring to people, but that's alright. I'm okay with it. Here's just a few things I love about the South:

* Sweet Tea - especially of the Milo's persuasion
* College Football - I just love the enthusiasm of the fans and the energy surrounding it
* Etiquette - it's like these people in Seattle never learned how to say "please" and "thank you"!
* The style - Vera Bradley purses, pearls with sorority t-shirts, cardigan sweaters...I love it all
* Fried food - I don't care what you say, they fry EVERYTHING better in the South
* Autumn - while autumn or the fake season that is autumn in Seattle is lovely, it's done much better in the south.
* My family is there - ah, I miss them.

Alright, I am going to go. But as Miss Scarlett would say, "Tomorrow is another day."

LBD and a cup of tea...or a teapot

2008-10-23T23:24:00.000-07:00

Good evening all, I hope this finds you well. I'm feeling surprisingly upbeat even though it's 11:25 on a school night, my cat is meowing her head off in a desperate painful moan (I have NO idea why) and I have to be to work in t-minus 7 hours. That's okay, you can't ruin my chipperness.

Okay, hang on, wait...Susan is getting close. I need to do something about that cat, she's such a whiner. Okay, she's now sitting next to me acting semi-normal. Let's see how long it la-okay, she's gone. Ugh. No. I'm chipper tonight. FREAKING CHIPPER.

So, I went out to dinner with C and his mom and her boyfriend tonight for her birthday celebration. They are such wonderful, warm people. C's mom reminds me exactly of my best friend, M's mom, who I actually just got an e-mail from today. Anyway, we went out to Hi-Life for dinner (Susan's back and laying on the keyboard, so pardon any typos). It was so wonderful. I went there a few weeks ago, as you might recall, with some folks and wasn't very enthusiastic about it. On second try, it was really really incredible. I got ahi tuna, so perfect, amazing. I also got mashed sweet potatoes because I was trying to stay healthy -- I'm pretty sure they were mashed with butter and cream because OMG they were FANTASTIC. Wait, fatastic? Hahahhaha. Oh gosh. They were yummy and totally worth whatever number of calories they plopped on my body. So get there and eat them...and bring me some to-go.

C's mom is one of those people that loves everything you give her, but thanks to my own Mom, I think we gave her a pretty f'ing cute gift. You can steal this idea for your own mother's or someone else's if you'd like. So we got a tea pot and some flowers from the store, cut down the stems and made the teapot into a vase and then gave her some loose tea to go with it. How cute is that?? I think pretty cute and she l-o-v-e-d it.

I've been stressing out ridiculous amounts about this birthday party I have to go to on Saturday for C's cousin. It is "formal" attire, but I mean, what does that mean? I don't know. So I thought, "formal attire...prom dress? Sorority formal gown? Cocktail? Baahhh!" I went to two different Ross stores looking (I didn't want to spend alot) then finally asked my friend B if she had any I could borrow. Turns out, a LBD (little black dress for you not "in" people) was the perfect solution. Check this out:

Ow, ow. Alright, I'm out.

Nutrition...hm, it makes sense plus contest update!

2008-10-22T13:49:00.001-07:00

So last night at running group we had a nutritionist come in and if what she says it true, it looks like I am deficient basically all across the board. Here's what I learned last night, sorry if you already know all this info:

* Drinking two cups of green tea (hot or cold) a day will boost your metabolism by 20percent
* Drinking two cups of green tea before your work out will put you into fat burning mode immediately
* I'm anemic (ok, I already knew that...)
* I'm protein deficient (which I sensed I was), the sign of protein deficiency is craving carbs and sweets...which I do ALL the time and I didn't before about 3 months ago so there you go.
* I'm vitamin D deficient...and if you're living in Seattle with me, chances are you are too. We just don't get enough sunlight up here above San Fran, the two weeks of summer just don't cut it. Period.
* I'm healthy fat deficient (I don't really know what the terminology was for this). I should be eating more coconut oils, avocado and olive oils than I do to help with my energy stores.

So I'm going to go to the doctor and get my lab work done and then I'm going to see her to figure out how I can fix myself. I just need a little bit of direction. Anddddd she takes insurance! I have a feeling I'm going to feel a lot better SOON.

****CONTEST UPDATE*****

Things are heating up on the contest front. I've received several ssscccarrrrrry pictures from you folks. So scary in fact, I want to give you all a prize! But I can't, only one will be named winner. Keep sending me your photos, folks. I promise, you WANT to win this prize.

So I mentioned the worst picture ever..please don't cry.

2008-10-20T16:21:00.000-07:00

In my contest post, I mentioned the worst picture I've ever taken in the history of my life. My mom was nice enough to take it out of the frame in her living room and scan it for me to share with all of you. I will NOT be using this photograph in my contest, because let's be honest. That would be really unfair. I'd automatically win because I'm pretty sure none of you could trump this. In my friend CP's words "you look like michael jackson/a burn victim." I'll be sure to use a photograph I took this year to be on an equal playing field.

Background on this photograph. It was taken the day of my high school graduation, I was really upset about graduation/boyfriend break up and I like to look at myself when I'm crying/upset to see how ugly I look. And well, it's pretty ugly.

Anyway...enjoy.

Jesus, that makes me want to cry. Anyway, I have received 4 submissions today most of which were weak. Get to work people. You want to win this prize. I promise, it's good.

Contest additions

2008-10-19T20:00:00.000-07:00

* Winner will be named on Oct. 31.
* All entries must be received by Oct. 30, please send to my gmail at jessica.randazza@gmail.com.

Good luck!

Most wonderful time of the year...Time for a contest

2008-10-19T19:36:00.001-07:00

Ah, you feel that? The cold chill in the air, the wind breezing by rubbing it's icy hands against your rosy cheeks? It's finally here, it's autumn.

You've probably heard before that Seattle has two seasons: rain and non-rain. Which is almost true. We have more like two and a half seasons: rain, non-rain and foreboding overcast (frequently refer to in other parts of the country as fall). As the leaves begin to change and fall to the ground, the winter clouds sweep in and over the sky of Seattle, letting you know the weary weather is rapidly approaching...here's your 15 day (give or take) warning.

While Seattle has the absolutely most fantastic summers in the entire world, this quick "season" is by far my favorite. Pulling sweaters out of the drawers, putting on my boots, it's strangely satisfying.

This "season" brings with it corn mazes (I went on Friday to Stockard Farms with some friends to wander the maze...or maize...hahah..oh me), pumpkin carving (did that yesterday and lost big time...but as you know I'm incapable of anything crafty a list of which now includes: gingerbread houses, egg dying and now pumpkin carving. If I can't make a proper turkey hand drawing come Thanksgiving I'll let you all know that I've reached a new level of...well...failure. Stay tuned.), wonderful hearty food and of course Halloween.

Halloween has long since been my favorite holiday (with the exception of my birthday). I mean think about it, what the hell is not to love? Dressing up as someone else, eating too much candy, scaring people...ah, perfect.

So I thought in order to get into the holiday spirit I would ask my lovely readers to humor me in a contest. The scariest picture *of you* contest. I am pretty sure I'm going to win, so just a heads up, but if any one is interested in being a judge, let me know. Reason for the contest is simple: One, its Halloween. Two, I don't know about you guys, but I've spent all year taking scary horrible unattractive photographs (most of which were by accident) and now is the time to put those babies to work. Don't be ashamed of your awful pictures, folks, its all for the spirit of contest. And like I said, I'm sure I'm going to win. In fact, I have in my past taken a picture that was so absolutely horrible, that it scared my own MOTHER and she now has it framed and for display in her living room. Everytime anyone ever sees it they cry because they're so scared. No joke, true f'ing story.

I look forward to your entries! And remember, you're doing it for the spirit of competition and of course to make me happy....which I know is exactly what all of you live for.

Life in the fast lane...

2008-10-14T22:04:00.000-07:00

When, Lord, am I going to learn to say no? I swear, I bite off way more than I can chew too often which is exactly why I had to do Weight Watchers in the first place. I'm juuuuuu ustttttttttt kidding.

One of my PR friends, C, gave me a emery board set that has a case that says "stop me before I volunteer again." Such true words. I am what you call an over doer. I like being busy, but I when I find myself picking up the pace and starting to be busy, I just push it to the nth degree.

I was lucky enough to have yesterday off and so I headed up to Northgate to talk to WW ladies about becoming a leader. I've wanted to become a leader for awhile, but I could never make the initial meeting and after talking with the ladies I'm really excited about beginning. I l-o-v-e my leader and I hope that the people that come to my meetings will feel the same. The commitment isn't too bad, about 5 hours a week. Definitely a commitment I'm willing to make.

I've also begin initial training for the marathon, a commitment I'm finding myself less and less...well...commited to. I talked to my running coach tonight and she said since it's my first go at it that I need to plan to get 3 halves in before tackling the marathon to be sure it's something I really want to do...ugh. She said to give myself a year of training instead of the 7 months I was originally hoping for. LAME. I'm going to try to stay on track though. Send me your good thoughts.

As I've begin plans for next year...which...here's the big reveal...who's ready??!? I'm planning.....I'm plannnnnnnnnnningggggggggg to gooooooooooo back...to.....school! Graduate school, in what, I don't know. I just know that I want to go back and I want to do something that I enjoy doing. So I'm beginning GMAT studying to get that dream going. The trouble is I keep reading more and more about how I'm never going to get financial support/aid in this blasted economy and that I should wait a couple years. I don't want to wait. So I'm going to study and hope that I kick f'ing a on the test and get amazing scholarships. I need more good thoughts please and thank you.

I'm really trying to use my spare time to think about how to improve myself, what I can do to enrich my life and I've been doing a fairly good job of it. I hand-sewed another pillow (I'll post pictures when I finish the final edge), I am reading Miss Manners, reading about politics, writing and making new healthy recipes. I'm feeling pretty good, better than I have in a very long time.

But, as the sun sets earlier and earlier (it's pitch black here in Seattle until 7:00 am and then dark again around 6:15 pm) I'm trying to stay active. As many of you know I have pretty bad seasonal affect disorder, it's important to find ways to stay active. So, thus, the busyness...catch 22.

Anyway, I'm tired. Night.

Easily discouraged...

2008-10-08T16:01:00.000-07:00

Ah, the inspirational blog of yesteryear can only last so long until I'm feeling back in the dumps again. I need to learn some positive self talk and use it more often, instead of the "I'm a failure, I'm fat, yadda yadda." It's amazing you all have listened to me as long as you have. Here's some positive self talk for one little lost lady in Seattle:

*Ahem*

* H, the president of my company, told me yesterday that I am the cutest dresser she's ever seen and she wants to go shopping with me. "You put clothes together like no one I know and it's always SO cute."
* As crappy as I've been eating for the past whatever amount of time, there is still something I can do about it. I can kick this. I can get back on top, starting first thing tomorrow (since it's girl's night tonight and we're having fondue).
* My hair cut is really cute. Most of you haven't had a chance to see how cute my new do is, but I've gotten lots of snaps. And, well hell, I like it.
* I'm witty. I mean, there are so many people out there (none of you, you're all lovely people) that don't have a spark of humor in them. Bo-RING.
* I have excellent health and I've lost 35 lbs this year. That f'ing means something.
* I have great family, great friends and a wonderful b/f. That must mean I'm doing something right. Well, I suppose the family just happened, but the rest...I did that so *snaps*
* My pedicure looks DAMN good.
* I'm a doer. If I make a plan and really want it to happen it gets done. It's just making sure I'm striving for things that I really want seems to be the trick.
* I'm busy. I'm busy with friends, with activities, with constant things to do and I love it.
* I have a cute cat that might drive me crazy, but she snuggles me and loves me above everyone else -- sorry C, but you know she does.
* I've had more opportunities than most. I'm talented at what I do (regardless of whether I love it or not), I'm GOOD at it. And that means something. FYI, I have an article coming out in the Oct. 13 issue of Woman's World magazine, so pick up a copy.
* I'm reading Miss Manners right now so I can cross the "Become more Southern" thing off my bucket list. Now if I only knew how to make grits.....

As hard as things are now, as easily discouraged and depressed as I sometimes allow myself to be when I read about our economic struggles, or interact with the mean girl at work, I have a lot going for me. And that means something. That means that I still reside in the House of Awesome.

Marathon running inspiration

2008-10-06T20:15:00.000-07:00

I spend an awful lot of time thinking thoughts of worthlessness and how many struggles I endure..."woe is me, woe is me" thoughts. What an f'ing waste of time. If I spent 1/2 the time that I spending thinking those thoughts then I could basically rule the world. Or at least run for Vice President...hah, just kidding.

It's true that I do spend a lot of time dreaming about things, "what if I did x, what if I did z, that'd be awesome." But I never put those into action. It turns out I might have been looking for some inspiration to kick me into gear...fortunately, I finally found it.

I went this weekend down to Portland to watch my good friend W run her first marathon, which may have been one of the most incredible things I've seen ever. My friend has gone through a huge transition this year, going from non-runner to marathon heroine, she's become my very own self-help book. Not that she needs help, just that she's helpful....anyway. She ran the marathon in an incredible 5:03, staying consistent the entire time. As she ran around a corner in mile 21 and we were there to cheer her on, it occurred me that I really want to have that kind of experience. Not just friends cheering me on, but having that kind of emotional roller coaster, setting out for a very visible goal and making it happen.

I'm fortunate that I'm already in a running group every Tuesday and we're training for a 10k at the end of November, that's when I figure I'll start training for the marathon. I think it will be an incredible experience, obviously an exhausting one, but I think it might be just the thing to get me through the winter.

Thanks, W, for being such an inspiration and congratulations! Hopefully it's only a matter of time until you can say congratulations to me!

Oh me, oh my

2008-09-29T11:49:00.000-07:00

Congress rejected the bail out bill. 700 points the Dow dropped so far. Gives me anxiety, but as my mom puts it, "it's a waste of time to stress about things you have no control over, it prevents you from taking care of things you do have control over." So with that, I'm going to try my best not to spend too much time thinking about it even though I'm worried. Moving on...

Had a good weekend. Friday we watched the debate at the Great Nabob with a bunch of friends where I met a couple of my friend W's friends and they said the nicest thing anyone has ever said about me, coming from someone I don't know anyway. They said that I'm the most beautiful person they've ever seen. How they see that, I'm not sure, but man is that a nice thing to hear on a Monday morning.

After the debate C and I headed to the Showbox to watch Blue Scholars, which is hip hop music. Now, as most of you know I HATE hip hop, but we ran into our friend R and hung out and had a pretty good time. But, I don't think I need to go to another hip hop concert for a long while.

Saturday I baked some banana bread (3 loafs!) and C and our friend came over and knitted. Watched Enchanted (I L-0-V-E that movie).

We ushered at the UW game on Sat night and Sunday we hiked Tiger mountain. 3 miles straight up and considered a "beginners course". I almost died I was so exhausted. Every muscle in my whole body feels like jell-o. It was kind of ridiculous how hard it was and of course we had old men running past us up the mountain like it was no big thing. Ugh. My favorite part was when we got to the top of the mountain we sat down to have a snack and there were birds flying around the trees and the flew down and sat on our hands to eat our food. It was actually really cool. Here's some pics:

View from the top

Me walking...

The bird in C's hand.

Alright, I'm off to go avoid reading CNNmoney.com.

It's the eye of the tiger...or me anyway..

2008-09-23T22:17:00.000-07:00

What a freaking week. Literally massive insanity.

My mom came last Tuesday and right before she arrived I poked myself in the cornia with a sharp corner of some thin cardboard. It caused enough damage for me to miss work Wed - Fri, not be able to leave the house to do anything fun with my mom at all, and I had to go to the doctor on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

It was awful. I have slight blurr and kinda squintiness to my eye but seems like I'll heal just fine. My eye anyway, my heart is still broken and will take some time to fix again. Probably until I see mom again. :(

It was nice to have her here and while we didn't really do anything, it was nice just to be with mom doing nothing. She's such a wonderful mother. We talked in length about my future and I think I'm getting there I'm actually extremely excited about the direction I think I'm taking it and when I have more definitives I'll let you know. Just know it's big! And it's going to allow me to cross off some of the things on my bucket list which freaking rocks my face off. Soooo pumped. I'll let you soon soon soon.

So...I started a women's running group with my friend K and we ran part of Greenlake today. It was nice, I like our coach. Done through Titlenine.com and seems to be well organized. It's 8 weeks long, some girl bonding time and running will do me some good. Especially as the weather starts to turn to..well...Seattle.

I've got to head off to bed, but stay tuned...big news to come...but for right now, the secret is tucked away much as I am in this bucket....

...don't worry, I'll come busting out soon.

100th entry....

2008-09-15T09:24:00.000-07:00

After a year and a half of blogging, I finally have reached my 100th entry. Many of you have followed my blog since it's inception and I wanted to sincerely thank you for continually wasting your time reading the vat of nothingness that is the A Day in the Life of Seattle blog. You all are swell.

A few things:

* Those of you interested in the P & P tour to England please let me know. I think I could organize a group of people to take the trek the rolling hills of the lake counties, Darnesha the great estate of Pemberley:

http://www.britishtours.com/prideandprejudice.html
http://janeaustenfantrips.com/Sept._2008_Tour.html

Looks fantastic, yes? Who's with me? No, I'm serious. Who wants to go?

This weekend:

Was good. I went out to Anthony's with C and his dad/step mom on Friday night and had a lovely dinner. Ahi tuna was delish!

Saturday we tooled around and I went shopping with my friend for her new job that started today, we basically took over H & M for a good bit, but found her some great deals, so that's nice. Yay.

Went out to dinner on Saturday night at Maggie's Bluff, which I love because of it's incredible view.

Sunday went up to C's dad's for a bit, then to a tourism trade show and picked up some AWESOME deals (a FULLY all inclusive, meaning also plane ticket, to Beijing for $600! I mean, wHAHHHHHT?? For 8 days! Who wants to go?) I also signed up for a bunch of sweepstakes to win a trip, so hopefully I'll be jetting off to Tahiti soon. I'll let you know what shakes out.

We went over to C's mom's house for dinner last night. She and her boyfriend are doing a house exchange with an American couple that live in Costa Rica and we went over to meet them last night. Weird but nice people. They told me I should move to Budapest, Prague, Paris or some where in Spain. I believe then because they've seen the world over. I need to find a job where I can do that kind of thing. Seriously. Everyone start craigslisting for me, please.

Alright, I need to work.

More bucket list...

2008-09-11T23:38:00.000-07:00

I'm in Los Angeles right now for a new business pitch. I'm so lucky to be thought so well of at work to come to something like this. It says something about me, or at least that's what people tell me. I have the tendency to beat myself up though, when I'm in levels that require professionalism. I always think I'm the biggest idiot in the room. Which tonight, was probably true. Imagine yourself in the room with the following people:

* Co-creater/conceptor/voice of Teenage Mutane Ninja Turtles and co-starter of MSN, plus a bunch of other things.
* The EVP of my company in the USA division. He discovered Jared of Subway. Need I say more?
* The president of my office. She an articulate woman, a genius, winner of many awards, the person I want to be some day. Seriously, she's scary, she's powerful, she's my hero.
* One of the Vice Presidents of my company that is a strategic planning/event genius. He's loved by every client he ever interacts with.

And then there is me....they were hesitating as we were practicing on how to introduce me. "What do we say about Jessica......" they asked. "Uhh...she's...she has a blog!" That's true, I do. You're succumbing to that misery right now you poor smuck. "Uhhh, would you say you understand social media, Jessica?" Yes. Actually, I do. I take pride in my social media knowledge, but wait...what's twitter again? I'mmmmmmmmm justtttttttt kiddding.

So on the plane down I continued my bucket list. Here's a bit more...of course there is more to come. And I'll update you as I take on each of these scripted life challenges.

25. Featured in if not star of television show.
26. Discover an educational passion and go back to school to pursue it.
27. Read more books. I’ve always wanted to become more engaged in literature, history and science to gain a better understanding of our world but admittedly I’m lazy – I can change that, thank you Seattle Public Library Card.
28. Create a financial life plan. There are so very many things that I want to do (as you can see from my list), but many of them require financial means. By creating a better plan of attack on my budget I could probably get them done more quickly.
29. Create a cookbook of some of my favorite family recipes. My family is all exquisite culinarians and I’d like to be able to learn from their skills.
30. Create a cookbook with my mother. We want to compile all of the great recipes that have helped us along the WW path.
31. Pay my brother Shawn back. He bought my car so needless to say, I owe him A LOT of money.
32. Become better organized. My mom or C can attest to my pack rat nature and misplaced brain so I often forget important dates, information, etc. Bad way to live life, but something I can fix.
33. Grow a garden. Once I have a place I can plant things, I think I should like to have my own little garden.
34. Give back to children in need. I’m not sure what this could mean yet, but I think I’d like to be a Fresh Air sponsor, CASA volunteer, foster parent or even adoptive parent. There are just so many kids out there that deserve sunshine.
35. Go to India with my friend D.
36. See my Nonna’s name at Ellis Island.
37. Take a glass blowing class.
38. Make a conscious effort to be kinder. I don’t know if you’d agree, but I find that the people I’m often the most hurtful to are they people that are closest to me. That’s by no means the type of person I want to be. This world can always use a little bit more kindness.
39. Visit the tulip festival in Victoria, B.C. or Burlington, WA. Why the heck do I miss it every year? I love tulips.
40. Go to Oktober fest.
41. Walk along the Great Wall.
42. Find patience. While I wouldn’t call myself an impatient person by any means, I certainly have certain limits…such as children on planes. I’m currently on a plane right now to Los Angeles and if this kid doesn’t stop kicking my seat I swear to Go-okay, breathe patience. Yes, good idea.
43. Bulk up my fun. While I think my life has been filled with good times, I spend a fair amount of time watching television instead of going out and doing everything this world has to offer. Fun could mean getting involved in YPN (Young Professionals Network through Chamber of Commerce) or Toastmasters or a painting class, just something. I want fun and I want it in bulk.
44. Accept my past. While I think much of my past history doesn’t impede in my personal growth, I know I harbor a lot of negative feelings. I don’t need those bad feelings anymore, they can go.
45. Learn to play an instrument (piano and/or guitar). I can play flute and I can play chop sticks on piano, a couple items on guitar. I would really like to learn though. Especially since I can’t sing. It’s my only hope for being musically inclined.
46. Don’t allow myself to languish in unhappiness. Far too many people let themselves be miserable and I don’t ever want to do that. Whether it’s work or personal, being miserable just is definitely not worth it.

Okay, bed time.

24 is the new me

2008-09-09T07:55:00.000-07:00

...Friday came a lot quicker than I thought it would. It's not that the week went by quicker than normal or anything, it seems as though life is speeding up quick a bit faster than I had anticipated and all of a sudden I'm 24 years old, a supposed "adult" in society, making a living and far away from home.

Birthdays traditionally are a time to reflect and think about what you've done, what you should have done, what you could have done and what you should do to improve on the upcoming year of your life. Then it hit me -- I just need to *DO* something. Anything. It occur ed to me that while I've always had the intent to make it big or do something grand, I rarely put those plans into action or do the leg work/research to make them happen. I'm a big talker and no longer a doer. I have to tell you that SUCKS.

So, I've decided to start a list of things I want to accomplish before this life is through. Ideally I'll come up with 101 really great ideas, but I'm not going to close it off to that because, well, there's a big world out there and a lot of stuff I want to do. So my list begins.....

1. Live abroad -- I hope somewhere that English is not the first language, which brings me to number two...
2. Learn a foreign language. I can understand a lot of Italian and Spanish, but my conversational skills leave much to be desired. I have the Mandarin Chinese disks..maybe I'll pop those in...
3. Ride an elephant in Cambodia, Laos or Thailand. I've always wanted to go there, I'm not sure why.
4. Snorkel the Great Barrier Reef - here's the honest truth...I'm terrified of ocean water. It FREAKS me out, all those things swimming about waiting to attack me..ughhhhhh but the water is clear there and, well, beautiful. I think I could suck it up.
5. Get a book published. Everyone dreams of being published, I just happen to write better than most of them. Okay, kidding...sort of.
6. Serve on the board of a national non-profit organization. My heart has always been with abused/neglected women and I'd love to know that my actions can make a difference.
7. Hike a big mountain. Just sounds like a good idea.
8. Run a marathon. I'm thinking in the next year or so I could check this baby off.
9. Make my own knock of Versace gown. I could do it, it just might take a couple years. Oh and I need a sewing machine.
10. Live in a huge city -- New York, Chicago, LA, Paris, London, Tokyo...where ever.
11. Learn various forms of dance and participate in a dance competition. Salsa, belly dance, ballroom, clog dancing, etc.
12. Run my own business. It might be consulting, it might be an art studio, who knows. Something and something good.
13. Camp out in the Peruvian Amazon.
14. Have tea and crumpets in England.
15. Take the Pride and Prejudice tour. If you know me at all, you know I love P & P.
16. Make a commitment to reconnecting with my Southern heritage. Truth is, I love being Southern. I just need to make it more intrinsic in my personality.
17. Teach a class. Whether it's experimental college or teaching English abroad somewhere, I really want to teach.
18. Go to Vegas. I'm not going to tell you what happens there since it's a rule. I might not even tell you when I go.....okay maybe.
19. Go on a cruise. I'm a big loser, I've never been on one.
20. Attend fashion week. It's going on right now and I'm not there. I don't want another year to go by without me in Bryant Park.
21. Ride a hot air balloon. I'm TERRIFIED of heights...which leads me to my next one....
22. Bungee jumping. I feel like that's on everyone's list...man it gives me anxiety to even type it out. Whew, maybe hold off on that one for a while.
23. Go to tomato fest in Spain.
24. Take a wine tour.

There is 24, for now. Much more to come...I'll follow up with birthday pictures a bit later.

It's been a great long while..

2008-09-01T21:42:00.001-07:00

A great many things have happened, a great many things. I've missed talking with you all.

Since we last spoke I made the trek back to Bama from August 14 - 25 it was perfect. I told few people I was coming, so that insured I had more time with my family and time to relax and eat lots of food. I mean, I ate a lot of food. Here's a recap of some of the particular goodies I consumed (I will NOT be putting points values next to these because the thought might depress me):

* Surin West (Tokyo roll, seaweed salad, coconut soup)
* Al's (veggie burger and mint sweet tea - the first and last thing I consumed... I f'ing love it. Although, I tried to be moderately healthy twice and went for the veggie burger without mayo or cheese. Such a mistake. This burger is meant to be consumed in it's full caloric serving. DELISH)
* Silvertron (neighborhood restaurant, but honestly terrible...I don't know why people love that place, it's random and weird http://www.silvertroncafe.net/)
* Ginza Korean BBQ (we went for my mother's birthday and I ate sashimi and seaweed, it was pretty good. Then my dad was telling me how good he heard it was a few days later and I didn't have the heart to tell him I just went, so I ate it twice. The sashimi was frozen the second time around)
* Cantina (the freakin' best shrimp quesdilla in the whole planet. I l-o-v-e it http://www.birminghammenus.com/cantina/....actually all their food is good. I went with my BFF D and my old professional advisor A, who is probably one of the most hilarious people in the planet. Good times, great food.)
* Jim N Nick's BBQ (Now, here's the thing. I go to Jim N Nick's every time I go home but I don't eat meat, so it's kind of weird. I go specifically for the cheese biscuits which melt in your freaking mouth. I brought back some pulled pork for C to eat and taste a bit of home. He said it was good, but I really couldn't say. http://www.jimnnicks.com/)
* Rojo (I love Rojo. I really do. It's a neighborhood outdoor restaurant with a great atmosphere and good flavor. I actually ate the worst thing they probably had on their menu -- not worst in terms of calories but worst in terms of flavor. Pineapple salsa, sounds good right? No, not really. It was stringy and mixed with jalapenos, not what I was expecting. http://www.birminghammenus.com/rojo/ Still good environment
* Taziki's Greek Fare (It's a low key Greek restaurant and I went with my friend R. It was pretty good http://www.bhamdining.com/mediterranean-mideast/2007/6/18/tazikis-greek-fare.html )
* Ridiculous amounts of sweet tea
* Chick-fil-a (might not sound impressive but they don't have them in Seattle. I drank quite a bit of diet lemonade - I love it so much
* Indian Food (At D's engagement party she had so much food and all of it was EXTREMELY spicy but good...there was somosas, curry cheese, all kinds of random, mint naan which was really good)

Picture of me and D at her engagement party. I have no idea why my face looks like that
* Mom's chocolate chip cookies -- OMG, amazing.
* Fried pickles (really made my stomach hurt, but you know, they're pickles and they're fried. What can you really expect?)

As you can see, I ate really well. REALLY well. 3 lbs gained well. But that's alright, I'm back down to my normal weight now...and it was all very much worth it.

Here's a couple cute pictures from my trek home:

Me and A at Metro Bistro.

Me and my bro, J.

My flight was delayed back and I missed my connection in ATL and had to stay overnight in a shady McGee hotel. Ugh. Got back in and went straight to work and had the most hectic week ever this week. One of my client's annual planning meetings and we had a really good dinner at Steelhead Diner -- really recommend it for your Seattlelite locals. It has all northwestern grown or raised food with really rich and hearty flavor for a pretty good price. Located right in the market, here's the web site: http://www.steelheaddiner.com/

This week is going to be insane. I had Friday and today off for the Labor day weekend and I have work tomorrow, then I'll be in Los Angeles for work on Wednesday and then working on Thursday and thennnnnnnnnnnnnn Fridayyyyyyyyyyyyyy isssssssssss myyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Big 24, better represent.

Alright, peace out. Tired from doing absolutely nothing all day.

I can't remember the last time I slept all day..

2008-08-11T21:44:00.000-07:00

The weekend was good...I went out with some friends on Friday night to Purple Cafe (an amazing wine bar in Seattle) and had the most incredible gorgonzola stuffed dates with pine nuts. Basically I would give up every other flavor in my life if I could eat those all of the time. I'm not joking, it's true. They're amazing.

Saturday I watched the Olympics most of the day and went to a bbq at a friend's house on Saturday night with C. We played "Catch Phrase" which I have to tell you is a really fun game. I think I might buy it. I loved it.

Sunday I literally slept and lounged around all freaking day long. I didn't do anything. I drove to West Seattle....that's it. And I found that whole process exhausting. I can't remember the last time I just did nothing. I did jump around a little bit while I was watching the men's relay in swimming last night...I can't believe how close it was...incredible.

I'm going home this week. So happy. I get to drink sweet tea and eat Al's veggie burgers...see my friends and brothers and of course my mom. I can't wait. It's time. It's past time. I hate being this far away sometimes. It's just so hard.

I'll talk more later when I'm not so tired. I'm just going to look a craigslist and catch some zzz. Sorry for the boring post, I'll be exciting later.

This laptop is burning my leg..

2008-08-05T21:28:00.000-07:00

When did I become old? When did I become a compulsive complainer? I swear I bitch about the most ridiculous things, EVER. When did I start complaining about loud kids or crappy movies or how tired I am? Or getting up in the morning -- oh wait, I've always complained about that.

It happened fast. All of a sudden I couldn't stay up late or go out all night with friends. All I wanted was to be at home and ready to be in bed by 10 p.m. at the latest. I'm in bed right now, as a matter of fact. Because all of the sudden, I got old.

I hate that I got old. I can't define what it is about me that died, some kind of enthusiasm for life or my ridiculous nature got toned down. Partially I think it's because of the business I'm in or the type of clients I serve. While I have a good time, a lot of the day to day is pretty dry...and some how that's dampened my spirits. The bright nature that once was.

I HATE that.

There are things about me from a year or two ago that I don't miss at all. I was a meddler. I meddled in people's affairs, caused drama, stirred up the pot where ever I could. I killed that behavior after moving to Seattle, which I'm thankful for. Maybe a part of it was growing up and I had to leave town to do it. Whatever the reason, I'm glad I aged past it.

I do miss my wandering spirit, the freedom to roam. The freedom to be me. While I wouldn't say it's been put into some incoherent cavern of my mind completely, it certainly has scaled back. I miss it, but I realize that I might never have it back in full force again. I'm an adult now. I have to learn to live practically. I have to save money and be responsible. So that one day I will be able to have the financial security that comes with being free.

One day....one day I'm going to see the world. I'm going to take it all by storm. I will be back....and you won't hear even a tinge of complaint out of me.

...One more thing...I AM Carrie Bradshaw.

2008-08-03T23:37:00.000-07:00

Or at least I would like to follow this advice in addition to the car wash sponge advice you'll find below...

“Eventually all the pieces fall into place....until then, laugh at the confusion, live for the moment, and know that everything happens for a reason.”
-Carrie Bradshaw

Much better than you did in high school...

2008-08-03T23:12:00.001-07:00

I posted a new picture up on my facebook page today from Genesee Park. C and I went down there to watch the Blue Angels' show, which was in fact awesome.

In the picture my hair is a mess, I have grass all over me...it's not what I'd call a stellar picture. Funny enough, though, I received a comment on fb from a girl I knew back in high school saying, "Wow, you look so much better than you did."

While I know she didn't mean anything by it except exactly what she said, I think, "Who the hell actually looked good in high school, and if they did look good then which of them still look good now?"

Okay, there are a few exceptions, but not that many that come to top of mind. Anyway, here are things that are different from high school:

* I'm several years older
* 50 lbs lighter
* less acne thanks to Proactive and Jessica Simpson
* A lot less naive
* Not miserable
* slightly less dramatic

I'd like to say I'm more intelligent, but that is to be determined. Talking about high school gets me thinking back though. While high school is/was utterly miserable for the large chunk of us, here are a few things that make me feel nostalgic:

* Being near my best friends
* The predictability of life. Even if you could predict each and every day sucking.
* Simplicity of it all.
* Pep rallies. It's funny to think that pom poms and "chubby bunny" would inspire me feel any level of peppiness. Especially about football.
* My old high school principal. He had the best sayings EVER. "Don't be late in '98." "Be on time in '99." "Don't be slow in double 0." And my favorite, "Miss Randazza, why don't you get on to class and soak up lots of knowledge like a giant car wash sponge."

Ahhh, Mr. C. Such great advice has rarely been seen. In fact, I think I'm going to make that my goal for the next month. I am going to soak up as much knowledge as I can "like a giant car wash sponge." That way when someone says something like "how did you ever overcome being the ugliest person ever since high school?" maybe then I'll have soaked up enough wit to say something snide back.

Meh. Goodnight.

It's account executive to you, foo.

2008-07-30T22:15:00.000-07:00

My promotion was announced. I wanted to tell you all sooner, but I couldn't. Top secret information. But now that it's out in the open I can squeal with deeeelliggghhhtt *EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE*

I'd like to say this means more responsibility, and maybe it will. I fortunately/unfortunately was given a lot to begin with, so I guess my title is just catching up with me in a way. Anyway, it's still neat-o.

You can send my congratulatory presents (I really like Jimmy Choo shoes, Miu Miu will work fine, too) to:

Jessica THE Account Executive
123 The House of Awesome
Seattle, WA

I look forward to your gifts. I'll also take Harry Winston diamonds, if you're offering. I prefer them in the 6 karat persuasion or higher.

Alright. Time to go to bed. I have to take my cousin (he's leaving, it's been a freaking month already) to the airport at 4 a.m. and then I have a conference call for work at 6:30 a.m. Niggggggggggght.

I burnt my tongue on coffee...

2008-07-29T08:34:00.001-07:00

Many of you know Seattle for it's magnitude of coffee and being headquarters to the largest coffee chain in the world - Starbucks. While I'm not a Starbucks advocate, before I moved here I was what we'd call "anti" Starbucks. And while I'd like to say that I still am, living in such a close proximity to something you're against kinda breaks you down. There are literally Starbucks every three blocks, how can you avoid it? Plus their chai is del-ish.

So in Birmingham there is a small independent coffee shop called Lucy's. While I admit to never visiting Lucy's, it appears to have it's charm for locals and regulars, what you'd expect from a mom and pop coffee shop. When Starbucks moved into Birmingham in 2001, they set up their first shop on the corner of 11th and 20th, the heart of 5 points. Later, they set up a shop on 4th and 20th in the hospital district. Lucy's resides on University(or 8th if you'd prefer) and 20th, in the middle of it all. About a two years ago a Starbucks moved in next to Lucy's causing concern amongst its patrons. I, being a fair weather follower of the "crunchy granola" lifestyle, was angry that this corporation could destroy such a quaint business without a concern.

It wasn't until I moved to Seattle that I had my first cup of Starbucks after that. Hovering over my warm cup of chai on a rainy, cold Seattle February, I walked down University Way looking at the store fronts and getting acquainted with what this city had to offer. It was at that moment, sipping my grande non-fat chai, clinging to its warm, I knew I made the right choice. Not by breaking down my moral convictions to drink Starbucks, but for moving to the place where it all began. Moving to Seattle. At that moment, I knew I made the right choice.

The great northwest outdoors..

2008-07-28T16:39:00.000-07:00

I'd be lying to you if I told you I was ever enthusiastic about spending a weekend without showering, roughing it in the great outdoors. Living in the northwest for the past year and a half has given me a slight change of heart. I enjoy the river, the rolling hills, untamed peaks and the evergreen this state has to offer. The air really is cleaner here.

This weekend I had the pleasure of spending my time camping with some of my friends in Eastern Washington near Ellensburg. My friend, CP, is moving away to Chicago for law school and we went to celebrate his departure. CP was my first friend when I moved here and he introduced me to all of my friends here. He truly made my life here a pleasure.

CP is a rare breed. He's always upbeat, always in a good mood. He does ridiculous things and wants everything to be alright. He brings out the best in everyone. He's a good heart and a great friend.

I have had some of the best times with CP. Last year we had a weekend celebration on a island in Portland called "Skull Island", we have had several trips to Spokane and good times in Seattle. CP helped me to want to be nicest to people, to be kinder, to see the good. All of my laughter here, all of the good is either a direct or indirect result of him, and I can't thank him enough for all that he's given me. He will truly be missed.

So, when he asked our group of friends to spend a few days without showers in the outdoors, I obviously couldn't say no. C and I gathered up our tent and sleeping bags, packed food and headed off over Snoqualmie Pass into the rolling hills of Eastern Washington. We spent Friday night hanging out by the fire and talking, reminiscing of the days of yesteryear. Saturday we floated the river for awhile and chatted again, played some boggle, walked around. Sunday floated again, chatted some more and said our goodbyes.

Without CP I wouldn't have made the move to Seattle. Without CP, I wouldn't have had one of the best years of my life. Without CP I would have never fallen in love with the great northwest outdoors.

Thanks CP for all that you've done in my life. You will kick ass in school and be around to defend me when I start living life on the edge in three years.

I want to be on Rachael Ray...soo much.

2008-07-22T17:39:00.000-07:00

I filled out something to be on the Rachael Ray show. The producer called me and requested more pictures. They said they'd call again if they want me.

Keep your fingers crossed.

Tired of this thing called life

2008-07-18T16:38:00.000-07:00

It's amazing how you can just get exhausted with life, isn't it? I don't know how I got to be so tired with it, but I am.

I don't feel depressed, I don't feel hopeless, I don't have any of those kinds of feelings. I'm just tired. Tired, tired, tired.

A weekend full of random things to do doesn't seem like it's the cure to make it any better, either. But, I have a packed weekend. Bite of Seattle tonight, Mariners' game tomorrow, C's dad's on Sunday.

I'll talk later, I'm too tired to write.

My Mom Rocks Socks

2008-07-16T10:49:00.001-07:00

I own a pair of socks that say in bold pink lettering "My Mom Rocks." When I get home I'm going to put them on. Because, afterall, that is in fact the truth.

A cat named Susan...

2008-07-15T21:05:00.000-07:00

I love the way my cat shows her sweet crazy affection, how she cuddles close to you but it's always very much on her terms. Susan is named after my best friend, and it always astounds me how much they're alike. Even though they've never met, and are approximately 1,505 miles apart, the two Susans comfort me with their standoffish affection that I've always found endearing.

Having cat Susan has been a tremendous comfort and I see so much of my best friend in her.

How I lucked out with such good friends, I'll never know, but I most certainly did.

My best friend "Susan" lives in Phoenix, but I grew up across the street from her. She was two years older than me, and I absolutely adored her. She was many things that I wasn't -- creative, hardworking and smart.

While we were growing up, she was always coming up with new money making schemes -- we made bookmarks once, beaded flag pins, lemonade stands, kool-aid stands -- she was a entrepreneur from the start.

I have 1,000s of favorite memories of her, but one of my favorites is every summer in our backyards looking for hours for four leaf clovers. "Susan" is/was a competitor and the second I found a four leaf clover, she found a five, I'd find a six, she'd find a seven, I'd find an eight, she'd find a 10. We pressed all of our four leaf clovers into the encyclopedias in her parents room, there must be hundreds of them still there to this day.

When she moved away to New Orleans for college, I was devastated. I felt like my limbs were ripped off my body and for the next year I felt completely lost. She stayed with me the summer I moved to Boston, and I felt renewed for a time, then she moved back to school and we were further apart then ever. I went to school in Alabama, and she finished up and moved away to Phoenix. She got married over a year a half ago.

When I graduated from college a month after her wedding, she was afraid that she wouldn't be able to come due to the expense of her wedding, and she cried to me over the phone one night, "I'd come if I could, you know I would."

"Of course I know that, don't worry, it's not a big deal," I told her.

She dropped it and a couple days later she called again crying. "I can't believe I won't be there for you, I should be, I would if I could."

On my graduation day, during the procession, my phone rang and it was my mom. She told me to turn around and wave so that she could find me in the sea of black caps and gowns. When I turned around I squinted to the other side of the arena, and found the blob of my family in the crowd and then honed in on a familiar face next to my mom. It was my best friend, who flew cross country just to see me walk across a stage.

It breaks my heart to say I haven't seen her since December 18, 2006. We speak frequently and the phone calls make up some of the distance. Even when we go awhile without talking we pick up the phone again like we left off no time at all.

About a year ago she got a dog and named it after me. She said it was sweet and wanted to please everyone, so she couldn't think of a better name than "Rose."

Shortly after, I started feeling a void in my life, needing comfort that only my best friend can give, C and I went to the Seattle Animal Shelter and found Susan. Her crazy glares, her stand offish behavior, her comfort on her terms, every interaction comforts me to know that I found some of my best friend in a cat named Susan.

Word a day

2008-07-11T14:05:00.000-07:00

So I am working with my cousin to do a word a day while he's here. It's amazing to me that 1. He doesn't know how to spell words like "jealous" or "choice" and 2. That he doesn't know what the word "optimistic" means. I mean seriously, what kind of education are kids getting these days?

I had a voluminous vocabulary by the time I was in third grade for cripes' sake.

Word for today:

misoneism
PRONUNCIATION:
(mis-uh-NEE-izm)

MEANING:
noun: A hatred or fear of change or innovation.

Thank you word-a-day web site. You are my hero.

Time keeps passing by..

2008-07-08T17:25:00.000-07:00

Sorry my entries seem to be getting less frequent, even though I think about writing often. I've come up with funny little posts that I imagine writing about. Here are some of the things I meant to write this week, but didn't:

* Bergdorf Goodman, give me all your shoes
* Daily Candy how I love thee
* Happy Independence Day, don't blow yourself up
* Seattle is only sunny when I'm inside...at work
* I don't know how anyone manages one teenager, let alone multiple
* I fainted
* TacoBell, I love thee and you used to make me run to the boarder of Ballard, now I don't have to run I can just hobble with my gooey cheesy gordita legs down to the boarder of my street (they're moving in one block away from work and one block away from home...I'm going to try not to get fat by walking on the other side of the street)

Well, that's about the excitement in my life. My cousin has been staying with us for exactly one week and he is probably one of the sweetest teenagers, ever, but Jesus are they sarcastic. I thought I was sarcastic, but man, you teenagers have this *ish* figured OUT. On top of that they *NEED* things. Need to be fed, need their clothes washed, need showers, need sleep, need attention. Who knew. I certainly didn't. Such a good kid, I'm lucky he's so good.

There are more things to come on the horizon, soon, I just am not at liberty to discuss at present. Good things.

In other good news that I can discuss, my best friend D, is getting married. I'm going back to Bama for her engagement party and to hang out with the fam Aug 14 - 24. Make your reservations for my time now. Time slots are filling up quickly.

Alright. Well, I'm off to my friend C's to have mojitos and chili.

Italian Family Reunion

2008-07-02T17:05:00.001-07:00

So C and I make the trek across the country for my family reunion which was exactly what I needed to unwind from the work grind. We took an overnight flight last Wednesday, arriving into Boston's Logan International Airport at 7:30 am.

My cousin, N, picked us up from the airport. Due my demanding nature and extreme withdrawels of Dunkin' Donuts coffee, we headed straight for Dunks to pick up a medium iced hazelnut coffee. A-mazing. I drank the entire thing in basically three minutes flat and started to sip on N's Iced Mocha Latte. Now, I'm loyal to my hazelnut coffee, but that mocha latte was WW's worst nightmare. That 16 oz beverage claims 270 calories and 5 grams of fat - 1 gram of fiber. 6 points for pure delight. Way to go DD. America runs on you.

We headed back to my grandparents house and immediately dug into breakfast and I didn't remove the fork from my hand until I left on Sunday evening. While I was there I induldged in the following items:
* French Toast
* Italian Wedding Cookies
* DD coffee
* Thumb print cookies
* Eggplant parmesan
* Manicotti
* DD coffee
* Sandwiches of all flavors and persuasions
* Fish cakes
* DD coffee
* Funnel Cake
* Shrimp casserole
* Fritatta
* DD coffee
* Fried eggplant with tuna fish inside (do NOT ask)
* Cheese, cheese and cheese
* Caesar salad
* Slush
* Caramel apples
* Peach Salsa

Amazingly enough I stepped on the scale and lost 1/2 a lb while I was there. I think my body is in a temporary coma and it will hit the scale full force tomorrow at weigh in.

I honestly had a really great time. My family is truly extraordinary. I got to spend a good deal of time with my cousin, N. We dressed alike the whole time and I have to admit, I really liked it. It was kinda cheesy, fun, cute. She's moving to Florida at the end of this week to live with a boyfriend in Sarasota. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't worried, but I think it will be good for her to get outside of Gloucester for awhile.

I saw my dad and my brothers. How in Christ's sake did I end up with such good brothers? I don't even begin to know, but thank goodness I did. It's amazing to have two siblings (J and My Master *S*)that love me as much as they do. I didn't get to talk to J as much as I would have liked since his friends were in town, but he and C went on a bike ride and got to spend some time together so that's good. S and I talked some, he really is a great bro, even though you left a f'ing bruise on my arm.

My aunts and uncles are great as well. All of them are exceptionally unique and are extraordinarily giving in each of their own ways. I've always hated that I don't talk to them as much as I'd like, and I am really going to try to make a conscious effort to get better about it. I want to be a part of their lives and my cousin's lives...I want them to be a part of mine. I've missed out on a lot of that.

And my grandparents. Truly amazing people. My grandmother stressed for days about what to feed me and then waited until two hours before I left to let me know that I had veggie burgers in the freezer. Hahaha, that woman CRACKS me up.

While I was there I also got to see my best friend who is now living in Providence. It was just so nice to be near her. She will always be the closest thing to a sister and admittedly I feel like a huge part of me is missing without her around.

Anyway, good trip.

Now, my 15 year old cousin, M from the other side of the family is staying with me for the month of July. It's going to be a busy, busy summer.

Enjoy the pics...

Me and N

Me and C

Me, My bro (My Master S), N

My bro S, J, and Me

Me and Dad

Me, Dad and J

N, my amazing Nonna and Me -- Can you believe that N wouldn't let us dress alike to go out to a dance club with her friends? I mean, seriously. I could have gotten us two of those sparkley shirts and we would have been all set.

N, my cousin B and Me

N and Me

Okay, good day and good night. I'm off to hang out with the boys at a skateboarding shop. Wooo.

I want to go to NYC.

2008-06-24T22:43:00.001-07:00

I can remember the exact moment that I realized I was fat. I was in 8th grade and waiting for my mother to come and pick me up after school. While waiting for our parents some friends were talking about going to the cutest boy in our grade's dance birthday party – I was not invited. Just then, cute boy walks by and over hears the discussion.

"Jessica, you're not invited," Cute Boy says. "I don't want fat girls at my party."

There had been warning signs about my weight throughout my life. I wore a size 8 in women's at the age of 11, I had stretch marks on my legs and I was constantly stared at by adults and children my age. Somehow, it wasn't until that moment that I received affirmation.

Tears started to stream down my face as my "friends" giggled and walked away with cute boy leaving me all alone. I climbed into my mom's car and sobbed the way home. When I got home, I ate a huge piece of chocolate cake to make myself feel better.

Growing up in an Italian family, in the South, with a chef for a father, food was the solution to everything. We used to comfort ourselves, to celebrate our achievements, whatever the occasion, food would be there.

When I moved to Seattle I convinced myself I would live a healthier lifestyle. I joined a gym and exercised regularly. I kept watching the scale hoping for a change, but the cupcakes and ranch covered french-fries I'd eat after my work outs negated any effects. I felt completely miserable; I hated the way I looked.

Some friends at work asked me to join them at a Weight Watchers meeting and for breakfast one morning before heading to the office, admittedly the draw was breakfast.

Weight Watchers turned around my life. I started to eat responsibly and understand that my portions were out of control, that my eating habits were dismal. I stopped hiding from my roommate so I could eat another carton of ice cream and the cheese drawer. I started to feel good.

I hit my goal weight this year, and I look at pictures and can't help smile and think, "Wow, you did it. You really are beautiful." For the first time in my life, I know I'm beautiful and I could get to any cute boy's party.

Remembering You

2008-06-24T14:02:00.000-07:00

Micah Bonner was an outlier in my life. Someone who sits in the background, waving his hands furiously every so often to get me to turn my head and notice him. Whenever I turned to look at him, he made me laugh and smile. He made me feel incredibly important. He took care of my best friend D, and took the edge of me worrying about her. He gave and gave his constant comfort and positive energy -- someone I can honestly say I never saw be negative. He was everyone's cheerleader. He demonstrated how to live.

One of my favorite memories of Micah was the summer before my freshman year in college. I had just moved back down from Boston and he was eager to hang out again.

After a long game of frolf, we went to a playground nearby his house and he forced me to do the spider swinging with him. I was hesitant to do it. I just knew it'd break.

I remember him saying "Just because you're getting old Jessica doesn't mean you can't have fun. Live, Jess, live."

I climbed on to the swing with him and sure enough it broke. We both tumbled into the sand beneath us, turned over and looked at each other and laughed. And laughed. And laughed.

In the more recent past I remember hanging out with him at his apartment talking about nothing. When the conversation turned to a serious talk about our futures he pulled out a clown mask. He put it on.

He turned toward me with a cool expression, lit a cigarette and smoked it through the mask. I started to smile. He said, "Now, Jessica, let's be serious. Do you think I'd make a good clown?"

Yes, Micah, you made a great clown. You made me happy. You made D happy. I will remember you always, as jovial and upbeat. Thank you for teaching me to take to laugh, teaching me to live.

May you forever rest in peace.

Rockin' weekend good times -- here's my picture book recap

2008-06-22T19:48:00.000-07:00

I have to tell you I love weekends that feel long. This weekend has felt long enough (in a really good way) that I'm not dreading work tomorrow. I feel relaxed and happy, and ready to face whatever the work week has to throw at me. Let's run through the weekend...

C and I decided to celebrate our anniversary this weekend since we'll be busy for the next few weeks and won't be able to celebrate the real day. It was great, I came home and got ready to go to dinner and headed off to Carmelita's (http://www.carmelita.net/). An amazing vegetarian dinner. Mushroom risotto is one of my favorite things in the whole world. A comfortable, cozy and is ranked as the number five restaurant in Seattle. Friday was a beautiful day outside, so we decided to sit out on the patio to enjoy the crisp Seattle air. Here's just a few pictures of dinner:

Me

A heart C made out of the bread

C at dinner

After dinner we went to the Westin downtown and stayed on the 44th floor with an amazing view looking over the city. Here's what we got to look at:

Kind of you can see the lights from our apartment building. Pretty cool.

Me in front of it...

Us

On Saturday we headed up to Marblemount near the Skagit River to go camping with some of our friends for S's 25th birthday. I'm not an outdoorsy person by any means, but I really had a good time. The drive was ridiculously long, and if any of you know me at all, you know that I LOATHE driving. But, once we got there, I was really happy we made the trek. We hung out, had foil dinners, sat around a fire and burned things and sang songs. We saw a deer 10 feet away and it just sat there and stared at us, it was really cool. Here are some of the pictures from the night:

Singing...

...around the fire..

Hanging outtttttt...

Our campsite...

As we left we stopped to take some pictures of the scenery..

Ooo, pretty...the waterfall, not me.

C in front of the waterfall.

Lots of pictures to remember a great weekend.

Goodnight.

Tomorrow's weigh in is looking bleek

2008-06-18T16:40:00.000-07:00

The binge from this weekend still hasn't burned off and I'm looking like I'll be up tomorrow a few pounds which I think might knock me out of maintenance. DANG IT. I'm going to a dinner meeting with a client tonight at the Seattle Yacht Club which can only really mean one thing...the food is probably drowning in butter and sauce and points. Ugh. Eating well is hard.

Where's my kitkat...I'm hungry.

I hate my sofas.

2008-06-17T18:50:00.000-07:00

They seriously are the most uncomfortable things ever. The bar is stabbing into my back so much it's ridiculous. My cousin is staying with us for the entire month of July and I wanted to get a new couch before, but I don't think we're going to. Seriously...look at this death trap:

It's just waiting to kill me. Okay, I'm taking my cat for a walk....don't ask.

Oh good things...

2008-06-16T22:26:00.000-07:00

I remember when I was 10 my mom told me that I should think of things each day that I am grateful for and write them down to give myself perspective when things feel rough. Well, things don't feel particularly rough right now, but I think perspective is always a good thing. Here's some things that I loved about today:

* I'm up a couple lbs up from a horrible binge eating weekend, but I'm still 30ish lbs less than I used to be.
* I went to the gym today and every machine I wanted to use was open, like it was waiting for me.
* Today was a sunny day in Seattle. I love that.
* I figured out how to make a 4 point PB and J and it was literally the best thing -- EVER.
* I was cleaning out one of my bags today and I found a fresh pack of Big Red. I love Big Red.
* My cat is the sweetest, most ridiculous thing ever.
* That C and I got to have lunch today together.
* I mastered the art of mashed potatoes without dairy. 1.5 points per 1/3 cup.
* That I found cute pictures on my camera from this weekend that I forgot about....so enjoy.

Me and C out with friends on Friday night.

My friend W and her boyfriend M.

Just shameless pictures of me at C's dad's house this weekend.

Anyway, just wanted to share the good things. I'm off to bed.

Life if better if you go through it laughing...

2008-06-16T17:22:00.000-07:00

I've decided to change my attitude, become more positive and cheerful. Now, if you flip through my blog you'll see I've made this decision on numerous occasions, but this time I mean it. I'm for real. No, seriously.

I've allowed myself to be too easily influenced by seemingly negative events, or let other people's bad attitude play into mine. I'm not going to do it anymore. I'm not going to allow other people to make that decision for me. Because you know what? It's mine. I am choosing to be happy, so take that you big toucan face.

Now that we're moving forward and being positive and having a good laugh I've decided to move into this phase with a sweepstakes entry. At first I thought "They're never going to pick you, you don't have what it takes to win." Now that I'm being positive I decided to change the 'tude to "You're amazing. Enter to win. You're born a winner..." er something. Here's the contest:

http://www.weightwatchers.com/templates/marketing/Landing_1col_nonav.aspx?PageId=1050551

Yesssss...free trip to NYC and shopping spree here I come!

More positive news to follow. But for now, I'm taking my upbeat self to the gym! A place I love but haven't gone for two months. Being too much of a Debbie Downer, I guess. No more! Rain Fitness love face, here I come!

Goaaaaaaaaaalllllllllllllllllllllll

2008-06-13T08:27:00.001-07:00

Well, it's official. I reached my goal weight. 31.2 lbs and 4 pants sizes smaller, here I am.

And from the other side:

I had a nice celebration yesterday. I got home and C had made me a cake out of the WW 1 point lemon cakes that I love. Here's what it looked like:

I lovvvedd it. See:

Oh happy cake:

And flowers:

It was lovely. Very lovely. We cooked out, ate a delicious veggie burger and relaxed. It was a great way to enjoy the new me.

As a recap here's where I began:

Not a huge difference but I certainly feel great.

Major Anxiety

2008-06-11T23:50:00.000-07:00

It hit me really hard. Anxiety attack to the max. I feel like a crazed loon. I'm not sure why exactly, I know everything will be okay, but gosh I feel like a freak. I all of a sudden feel the need to second guess every decision I've made in the past 24hours....like everything is going to come apart at the seams. I can't explain it...my hands are shaking...so weird. Maybe I drank too much diet coke. I have had an awful lot of caffeine today. Maybe that is it? I don't know. Okay..calm...even...calm.

I made stupid comments to my client, I feel like...stupid comments to my bosses, all of them. I just feel like a jack butt. Okay, Jess. Cease and desist on the diet coke bevs. Lord...I'm all kinds of shaky right now. Okay, I need to go to bed. WW is in the morning.

Goal weight, here I come.

A sigh of relief

2008-06-11T17:09:00.000-07:00

Admittedly, I've been really stressed about the economy. My mom told me "Jessica, get over yourself, what are YOU going to do about it?" Truth, I can't do anything.

I can just read little tidbits that keep me from freaking out...because I feel like I'm the fat of a steak right now that could be shaved off at anytime. Here's what the department of labor had to say about the PR industry:

http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos020.htm

Granted, those predictions were drafted two years ago, but this release made me feel a little bit better.

http://www.prcrossing.com/lcpressrelease.php?id=250297

I just need to know I'm okay for now. I mean, once I get to be a Travel Channel host everything will be okay, right?

It's exhausting to be Southern

2008-06-10T22:32:00.000-07:00

Here's a truth I never thought I'd admit out loud, let alone in cyberspace where it will remain for all of time...ready? Okay...here's the absolute truth: I love being Southern.

Many of you probably aren't surprised, since moving to Seattle it's been a fact I've often boasted with pride. I like it, I love it I want some more of it..okay, no more country music I swear. But, growing up and even going to college in the South I rarely wanted to admit to being from there. I always wanted to be from somewhere else and people would say to me, "How come you don't have an accent? Why don't you act Southern?"

Proudly I'd reply "My mom is from Long Island, my dad is from Boston, if you got a problem you can stick it up your (*@*&#*(I said that in my best Boston/NY accent, which is pretty good if you'd like to give it a listen). Anyway, I loved it. I really did. Looking back I completely realize why I did it, because I do it now. It is great feeling to boast being from somewhere else.

I think my reasoning is two pronged:

1. People always look at you like they can't figure you out because their mind is a cluster of stereotypes "Well, shucks, that girl can't be Southern she's got shoes and all her teeth!" Whatever, I love it. Keep looking at me crazy because the truth is, I can't figure myself out either.

2. It's a great excuse for weird behavior. "Oh, I'm sorry, did I drink all your moonshine, it tasted just like my momma makes." Okay, that's a really poor example, I can't quite think of anything off the top of my head.

It was a strange thing for me growing up in the South in a household where we had anything but standard Southern practices -- sweet tea was rarely in stock, until I acquired a love for it in college, and I can't remember *down home* cooking going on of any kind. I didn't wear big brimmed hats as much as I would have liked and my drawers weren't darned with white lace gloves (I still wish they were), we didn't go to church. We were very much a northern family seemingly stuck in the South.

When I got into college, as much as I hated coming back from Boston (where I finished out my senior year) only to go to the University of Alabama, it was almost instantly that I fell in love. The institution is rich in tradition and I immediately wrapped myself up in its pride. I moved on to the University of Alabama at Birmingham an continued in Southern style. I joined a sorority, equipped myself with pearls and a dresser full of sorority tees and spent time with my sisters planning weddings and eating tea sandwiches. I loved every single minute of it.

I moved here and I fell into the role of being Southern -- hospitality oozes out of my pores all over the place and I have to tell you, it's super exhausting. I've always been maternal, I've always wanted to take care of my friends and feed them, but I brought it to a whole new level. I'm bleeding out sweet tea here and I have to tell you, it's started to make me unsweet.

Don't get me wrong, I love entertaining, I love having guests, I love playing board games and having friends come over. It's just a lot of fun. What I don't love is the financial impact that comes with it. Call me crazy, but our economy stinks right now and I don't want that to be the reason I've spent all of my cash once the "depression" hits. It would be idyllic to entertain my friends and have them come with everything I need to keep them happy -- the food and the wine. And I'll sit back, giggle, put on a big brimmed hat and some white gloves and work on
looking Southern, instead of just acting like it.

...the real truth...

2008-06-03T14:51:00.001-07:00

I spend most of my time hating myself. I feel sick about myself a lot of the time. One day, maybe I'll be okay..that day is definitely NOT today.

Reality TV

2008-06-03T08:40:00.000-07:00

Reality television is a true phenomenon to me -- people giving up their lives, their own reality, to watch the lives of others that claim to be more interesting than them. Pulllleassee.

It hit me when I was on the phone with my mom last night that much of my life as of late I've been living in black and white, become an observer like many Americans that hunker down on their couch each evening watching American Idol, America's Next Top Model, Real World, Sweet 16 or whatever else. What a freaking waste of time, but admittedly I myself love the worst show of them all -- Real Housewives of New York City. Puke. Get a life, Jessica.

And so I am. I'm changing my life to color. I don't want to waste my time on the couch dreaming about how I wish my life was more like the Kardesian girls(which, I don't wish that at all, but whatever). I'm bright and animated enough to be my on reality television show, I want my life to be active enough (not in a drama filled way) that people want break out the popcorn and sit and watch me live.

Instantly after this realization hit me last night I thought how I could make this happen, how I could become better and more interesting. Naturally, I logged onto the Amazing Race Web site to see where to sign up, but it doesn't appear that they're doing casting at this time and honestly, I'm a vegetarian I don't want to eat bugs. Ew.

It's been my dream to be a Travel Channel host, to tool around fabulous far off places and find the off the beaten path hot spots in Laos or Egypt. How do I get there? How do I break into a technicolor life? Whatever the answer, I'm going to spend the time it takes break out of Pleasantville and start my own reality tv show -- starring of course, me.

My landlord is asking for it....

2008-05-28T09:02:00.000-07:00

I want to thump the heck out of my landlord. Thump him hard. For those of you that don't know the term "thumping" it means to forcefully flick -- something I picked up thanks to my two older brothers...my oldest brother is really good at thumping as I recall. If not thump my landlord then I'd like to take apart a disposable camera and shock him with it repeatedly. Another trick I learned from my brothers.

I woke up this morning and I had no hot water. I remember thinking as I got in bed last night "Jess, just take a shower now so you can sleep in..." I couldn't be convinced, though and I woke up up early this am to find that the only hot thing in my house was my festering anger. It isn't on this one incident alone that has left me with bitterness. Here's the *short* list of things that I would like my landlord to fix:

* My shower head spits out water and lacking in water pressure which he promised to fix before I moved in in November. Liar.
* A missing baseboard by my door. Also promised to fix -- liar twice.
* An outlet in my living room not working, which doesn't seem like a big deal but I am sorely lacking in outlets.
* Eyes on my stove don't work. Don't ask me to cook Thanksgiving dinner unless you plan on bringing over your camping burners.
* The bathroom sink drain stopper is broken.
* Needs a paint job soooo bad.
* My bathroom door won't close.
* My front door needs to be cut down because it drags on the carpet hard every time I open it...it's sooooo irritating.

Alright, that's enough. Just let's just say I'm cranky and dirty this morning. And if I see him walking around...THUMP. I've complained about some of these things before and I'm half tempted to say if they don't fix them then I want my rent lowered $100 a month. Yeah, I know, as if.

Enough whining, back to work.

Back in Seattle...

2008-05-26T21:36:00.000-07:00

The DC event was exhausting, but I think it went relatively well. It was long days, long nights, a lot of work...I'm hoping it's worth it. We shall see.

I got back in town on Saturday around noon and C greeted me at the airport. It was really great to see him after the long week. Saturday was beautiful, so we walked down to World Market and picked up a bottle of Kris pino grigio (which is a really affordable Australia wine http://www.winezap.com/Haas-Franz-Pinot-Grigio-Kris/0/16751) and some Framboise (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Framboise) and walked through Olympic Sculpture Park (http://www.seattleartmuseum.org/visit/OSP/) which is only three blocks from the home base and sat in the sun.

My friend from WDWCP was in town from El Paso on Saturday night with some friends so we went out to Pink Door for dinner. I had some amazing halibut. Amazing. We headed over to Belltown Billards for a bit and then headed home. It was a nice walk home -- crisp Seattle evening...but I was exhausted. I burst into tears halfway home from being overtired...meh.

Sunday was relaxing...we hung out in the courtyard and I sewed a pillow while C painted in true Bob Ross style. Now, you'll be impressed...this was no craft fiasco, friends. It appears one craft I can do is hand sew. Forget about the gingerbread houses, discard all thoughts about the Easter eggs and feast your eyes on this:

I know....oooooo...ahhhhhhhhhhhhhh, right? I mean that's handsewn. No sewing machines were used in the process. I'm so proud of myself I plan on making two more! One with the same material and one with this:

I'll let you know how it turns out. Fancy, I hope.

In other news I made the most inccccccccccreddddibllleeeee HG pad thai yesterday. HIGHLY recommended for you WW eaters.

Delllllllllllishhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh.

I also got some aweeeeeeesome strawberries that are the size of my head. Okay maybe not that big but check these babies out:

Oh heck yes, I'm enjoying that. Anyway, I'm off.

38 hours...body lotion in my hair

2008-05-19T20:18:00.000-07:00

I'm in DC for work...one of my clients is doing a really cool event but I must admit, it's sucking the everlasting energy out of my body. Yesterday I flew in to DC and I was on hour 38 of being awake when I decided to take a shower...body lotion is the new shampoo. My hair feels awesome today. Ugh.

After 5 hours of sleep I got in another 17 of work...and now I'm heading back to sleep for another 5 to regroup and play it again. I'll let you know how it rolls, there is so much to catch up on. So much. I hope to talk to you soon...but I'm probably the most tired I've been ever...I'm such an old 23.

Night..

Happy May Day Number 2

2008-05-02T14:26:00.000-07:00

Sorry about the delay since writing, I know you've been *aching* for an update. Everything seems to be pretty well in order in life, I am really enjoying crew.

Yesterday we went out on Lake Union which, as everything in Seattle is, it's beautiful.

Afterward C and I went on a May Day date to The Purple Cafe, which I've been wanting to go to since basically day one. I've always heard rave reviews, but I could never justify the cost. Finally we buckled up and decided that we needed to check out this downtown oasis for ourselves, and what better day to do it then for May Day. Here's the menu:
http://www.thepurplecafe.com/pdf/menus/seattle_dinner.pdf

I opened up my mouth to a bouquet of flavors, all extremely enjoyable. The gorgonzola stuffed dates were unbelievable and the halibut had some amazing potato pairing. Delightful. The chardonnay wine flight I order was alright, I'd probably get something different if I went back again. We'll see.

This weekend is shaking out to a pretty exciting weekend. Tonight my friends S and B are having a James Bond party, and I have the perfect outfit. I'm not going to reveal it hear, hopefully follow up with some pictures.

Tomorrow is opening day for boats in Seattle, and I plan on going to that to watch the regatta (ooo, I'm so crew oriented) and the parade of yachts. Afterward I'm heading over to Ballard's Fourth Annual Keta Salmon Cookoff to try salmon for *FREE*. Then it's the Hop and Scotch festival in Fremont, gotta check that out.

Sunday I'm going to the zoo. All and all looking like a good weekend.

Susan Belle is perfect, by the way. Thank you for asking.

Susan Belle

2008-04-21T15:30:00.000-07:00

C and I went to the animal shelter yesterday just to look and we left with an adorable cat. I'm nervous to have an animal, but I think it will be a positive thing. Introducing Susan Belle:

She hid in the tub for awhile and then warmed up and actually cuddled in bed all night. So cute. Tell you more about her later!

Seattle doom and gloom

2008-04-18T16:44:00.000-07:00

Man this place is depressing. If this winter doesn't burn off soon I'm going to be super sad. To top it all off, it's FRIGID. Not just mildly brisk, no it's flipping freezing. Bah.

I suppose I should update you with the new bits of my life. My friend K and I joined a "Learn to Row" class at Lake Union Crew...talk about cold. I'm going to freeze to death. The course is pretty intense for about a month. Tues/Thurs/Saturday for an hour and half. It's pretty fun, our instructor is extremely sarcastic and has pointed out about 20 times already how bad my posture is. I've spent most of my week strapped to my office chair in order to fix my posture. Little does he know that my chair leans back...muhahahhaha.

C and I picked up a ballroom dancing class that starts tonight. Should be pretty cool. Nonno taught me years and years ago how to fox trot, but that's about all I have under my belt. I'm just afraid I'm going to be the one trying to lead the whole time. Hah.

Last weekend I headed out to Spokane to hang out with some friends, it was pretty fun. It's always nice to see those folks, and we're going back for N's law school graduation in a few weeks. The agenda is pretty packed. Here's what's on the upcoming docket:

*Tonight: Ballroom class and going to Warroom with the soccer team folks (we've kissed and made up)
*Tomorrow: Rowing, Tulip Festival (http://www.tulipfestival.org/) and Desi Dhamaka (Chi's cousin is performing) and then the after party at EMP..whoop whoop...it was a lot of fun last year.
*Sunday: Brunch with C's mom
*4/21: Cooking Class at Blue Ribbon (http://www.blueribboncooking.com/)

Highlights to come:
*5/4: Vancouver, BC for Wac's 1/2 marathon
*5/9 - 11: Spokane
*5/17 - 5/24: Washington, DC for work
*5/26 - 5/28: Red Sox
*6/25 - 6/29: Gloucester for St. Peter's Day Fiesta

Alright, I'm out.

I am a Dremel owner

2008-04-07T20:26:00.000-07:00

Those that know me know one thing is true, I am by no means crafty. While you don't need proof that I'm a craft making failure, I have substantial evidence for your amusement. Please feel free to scroll down for the Easter Egg Mistakes of 2008, or look here for the gingerbread house fiasco of 2007:

Go ahead, laugh it up.

The thing is, I truly believe I have artistic vision. I keep investing into what I hope someday might be. So I decided my skills might lie in jewelry making. I was looking for a hobby to have at home, so I bought some wooden tiles, some chains, leather string, and earring hooks. I bought some decorative paper and several varieties of mod podge (my favorite is the sparkly variety http://www.plaidonline.com/apMP.asp#Sparkle). And I bought a dremel.

One thing to note is that I don't feel comfortable using a hammer or a screw driver, I don't know what made me think I should spend $75 on a powertool. WikiHow makes the process seem so easy:

1.Decide how big you want it to be. If you want it to be an inch long, cut it slightly bigger.
2.Find a small branch. Make sure it's okay to cut it first. Crepe myrtle, tallow, and hibiscus wood work well.
4.Secure the branch to something like a table, and saw the branch into 1/4 inch discs. Saw 2-3 of them so if one breaks you don't need to start over.
5.If you want to write on your pendant, get some sand paper. Use 60 grit for the first sanding and 620 grit for the smoothing. (If you want the pendant as is, continue on to step 6.)
6.After you have sanded it smooth, use a pencil to draw the outline, and color pencils to make a design.
7.Drill a hole for the chain or string.
8.Seal the pendant with a clear sealer so the design doesn't come off.

TIPS

You could also carve a design in the wood. If you do this, be careful not to cut your fingers as you carve the wood. Instead, secure the wood in a vise.
Instead of pencil, try ink, or consider burning a design using a pyrography machine. Depending on the ink and the wood you use, it may tend to soak in. Cut several disks so you can experiment with different designs.
Try cutting the branch at an angle if you would prefer a taller pendant. The angle will make the pendant come out in an oval shape.

Yeah, right. I tried and I ended up sanding off half of my pendant. Dang it. While it wasn't an initial success here are some things I learned for the next time I decide I want to try again:
1. Use eye goggles to prevent wood shavings from going in my eye and to prevent the foul language that follows.
2. Put down newspaper to prevent marks on the nice cherry wood dining room table.
3. Find patience. Your first few times will most likely suck.

I'll try again once I have the goggles and let you know how it works out, but don't put in your orders for any jewelry yet.

Show me the money....

2008-04-05T23:30:00.000-07:00

I went to my first casino, ever, today. Tullalip Casino (http://www.tulalipcasino.com/), "The number one place for fun!"

It was....anti-climatic. I'm not sure what I was expecting, actually. It was full of smoke, drunks, people on oxygen and still smoking with bloodshot eyes(keep it mind it was only 4 pm), slot machines and some card tables. I lost $4.49, dang it....I was up about $9, but I kept hitting the button on the slot machine. I promised myself I wouldn't lose more than $5. Woo hoo, take that casino face. C lost about $15...Dang casino owners, and their massive amounts of money.

Speaking of people with massive amounts of money...after leaving the casino we head on over to another company that has a couple Gs to throw around...Wal-Mart. Okay, so I haven't been to Wal-Mart since I've lived in the state of Washington, so it was quite the event. When I'm back home I think I go to Wal-Mart at least once a day there. I'm not even really sure what for. I did make some amazing purchases, I'm sad to say (I generally claim to be an anti-Wal-Mart person, but let's be honest...it's CHEAP).

I bought:
*Scrabble
*Coffee Maker
*Progresso Light Zero Point Soup
*Tropicana Light One Point Orange Juice
*4 Lean Cuisine Sante Fe Rice and Beans only $2.14 compared to the $3.98 I pay at Safeway(http://www.leancuisine.com/Products/Details.aspx?ProductID=194), Five Point lunch which I always add some spinach and salsa too to give it some extra flare which is amazingly tastier and less points than the WW brand (http://www.eatyourbest.com/products/productsearch/searchdetails.aspx?sid=2360)
8
*Morning Star Spicy Black Bean Burgers (http://www.seeveggiesdifferently.com/products.aspx?coid=23|59|59&family=363|634|675) which are my second fav only to Tomato Basil Pizza Burgers

All amazing and all cheeeeaaapppp

Alright, enough. I have girls brunch and pedicure in the morning. Goodnight.

Miss Ballard

2008-04-02T20:45:00.000-07:00

I don’t know how it struck or what brought on the surge, but I realized yesterday how indifferent I am to people that pass off into the periphery of my life, those that fall out of focus. Of course there are folks in my life that I will always love regardless of how often we chat, those are my kindred spirits and best friends. I'm fortunate enough to have a handful of them.

There are those others that drift in and out of your life and when they come back in you always try to make the connection again, make them fit where they used to. More often than not, that void that once was has already been filled by another friend and you can't rekindle what was.

This disconnect comes in all forms, of course. It comes with past relationships, friends, classmates and colleagues. You always want what is best for them as they move on, out of your life, especially the ones that were once important. You hold on to the nugget of what they were to you, cling to it...until soon it all fades away. It’s just a part of growing, they say, and the ones that are important stick with you.

I remember the first time someone fell out of my life and I could feel the hurt, the missing, the sting of pain. It was Miss Ballard, my kindergarten teacher. While Miss Ballard was never overly affectionate, she was what every kindergarten teacher ought to be, soft spoken, patience and considerate. I loved her. When I moved on to 1st grade, my classroom was close by Miss Ballard’s and when I had the opportunity to stop by and see her, I always did. I remember the change in her demeanor, a slight chill in her approach. I had fallen off her radar and she couldn’t make me fit back in her life. She had new students and they were her focus. I was heartbroken.

Since then, I’ve fallen out of many other’s lives and they’ve fallen out of mine. It is just the way it is. I’ve had a few of my friends fall out recently, and it’s always hard. It’s always the same. You hang on to that one nugget, give them another call, and reach out hoping to rekindle what once was...but eventually, as it always does the hope turns into apathy.

The Right Stuff...

2008-03-31T21:35:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it? NKOTB is reuniting and holding a show in NYC on April 4. I loved New Kids On The Block, but I guess what girl my age didn't. I had poster, which of course my brothers drew all over.

Oh glory. Oh beauty. First one was a sweet one...second one was a blast...ahhhh. I had the comforter, I had t-shirts, I had their white cassette tape. Amazing. I hope they come West. California, no matter, I'll be there with scrunchy and all.

Alright, well I mentioned my new dresser but I thought you might like to see it for yourself...here she is..

Lovely. I'm going to bed.

Lunch Time Uppppdattteee.

2008-03-31T13:45:00.000-07:00

Shoes. I have a real problem with shoes. I love them. They love me, I think. I bought another pair. Now, for someone who loves shoes at least I have the mind to buy them from Target and Payless so not to overspend my budget...well at least not too much. Here are the new members of the family:

Also this weekend I got a new dresser that is mighty cute. My other one fell apart, probably because I stuffed it full of too much junk and it was just retailiating. Hopefully I'll treat this one a little bit nicer.

This is it, except mine is white. It kind of has a beachy look to it. I like it. I hope it lasts awhile anyway.

Well I'm off to a meeting. More later.

I'm going to kick influenza in the face

2008-03-29T18:42:00.000-07:00

...This sucks. I can't sleep or anything. Missseerrrry....

Catching up a little late..

2008-03-28T20:45:00.000-07:00

Sorry I've been out of sorts this week, I've been sick with the flu. I wanted to let you know about my weekend getaway from last week and give you a few photographs. We had a pretty lovely stay, the resort is happily situated in Hood Canal. Very picturesque.

Here's some of the view:

This is the resort.

The Cascade Mountains outside of our window.

Some random hills across the canal.

"The Beach." We couldn't find any geo-ducks, a real bust, I'll tell ya.

Okay, so other than spending time with Chris, this was the best part. The resort had a cat called "Alder" (the resort name is "Alderbrook resort") and it was the sweeeeettesssttt freaking cat ever. It meeelllttteeed in your arms and had soft bunny fur. O...M....G....I loved it. I'd go back just for that cat. Yes, I will grow up to be a cat lady. What the f ever.

Oh...that's hot.

Okay, this is just shameless posting pictures of myself now.

Having a cup of joe in our room, enjoying the view.

And after breakfast....aw, so sweet.

Here's the truth about our stay. It was nice, it was beautiful, we had fun. But the service was absolutely horrible...I mean horrible. The worst service I have ever had anywhere. The restaurant staff was awful, the desk clerks were not helpful, it just was no bueno. So I wouldn't coin this hotel as a "resort", it was more like a Holiday Inn on a beautiful property with a fantastic cat. Meh.

On the way home while we were waiting for the ferry Edna (my 2005 Honda Civic) had about all she could take of running my radio and heater so she died in the line at the Bremerton Ferry. I flipped out. Luckily, we got jumped off and she's alive again.

Ah, back in gloomy, overcasty, lovely Seattle.

Alright, I'm sick. I'm going to go get some sleep.

Hang on...

2008-03-25T09:47:00.000-07:00

....I will update you on my weekend trip when I get home this evening.

Quick Weekend Update..lots of pictures...

2008-03-22T09:56:00.000-07:00

Egg dying was alright...I didn't last long, I started to get bored because, well, my eggs sucked. Here's how it shook out..

Yes, they all suck, but here is my favorite...

Chris lasted a bit longer and of course his turned out better. Dang it.

This is his favorite, I think....

Like I said, I didn't last long, so I started playing jawbreaker...typical...

And then lots of pictures...

And I end with a little black dress...

Off to lunch and hood canal.

Cliche, maybe, but TGIF

2008-03-21T16:31:00.000-07:00

This weekend is going to be really good, I'm very excited. Tonight we're going to kick off the evening with some classic egg dying. Now I'm not sure if you all are in tune with the gingerbread house fiasco of 2007, but let's just say I'm not exceptionally skilled in the ways of holiday decor. However, I have read up on egg dying techniques and prepared myself as best I can. I'll take pictures so you can see how it shakes out. I'll also put up the pictures of the gingerbread scandal later, because well, they're terrible and definitely worth seeing during any season.

Tomorrow I'm going to Pink Door for lunch and to celebrate the Tap Project.

http://www.tapproject.org/ (You can get involved in your own area!)

There is not a single healthy thing on the entire menu. So Philanthropic/Unhealthy lunch here I come. Menu here:

It looks delicious though. I'm thinking Caesar salda with crab and dressing on the side. Looks semi-promising. A bunch of friends are going so it should be nice to sit out on their deck looking over Puget Sound. Very good times.

Afterward I'm heading over to Hood Canal to spend my evening at the Alderbrook Resort. http://www.alderbrookresort.com/alderbrook_photo.php Chris and I are just going for the night and to have a nice Easter brunch and then heading back on Sunday. I think it will be a lot of fun. I mean look at this....

Perfect. I hope you all have a wonderful holiday weekend.

Longest day ever..

2008-03-20T20:08:00.000-07:00

I went to water aerobics last night. I was such a fool to make fun of those old bitties, it totally kicked my butt. On Tuesday Kel, Wac and I are going to try deep water aerobics....treading water for an hour, sounds like death. I'm totally excited. :)

I'm not really sure why today dragged on forever, but it certainly did. The day started out pretty good...I lost 2.2 lbs! Yayyyyy.

Even though I got to work late today, it just lasted forever. Everyone is out on vacation so it feels like I'm working a weekend. Miserable. I had a Student Outreach meeting this afternoon, though. Good to see that committee. I really like those ladies, they're so nice.

Unfortuantely I don't have much to offer you today other than my new chosen resort destination...it's so beautiful..

http://www.swvresort.com/home.cfm

Who's interested in taking me there? I'm packed and set to go tomorrow for any takers. Alright, I'm out.

I love old pictures

2008-03-19T16:42:00.000-07:00

My mom sent these to me today. Most of them are of my grandmother, great grandmother and great grandfather and I think my great great grandparents. They're just so perfect...

That's my grandmother with my uncle in 1960.

My grandmother and my great uncle in 1941.

My great grandfather in 1914.

My great grandfather around 1941. I love that he liked cats.

My great grandmother. I have that ring that's on her finger on my finger right now...

My great grandmother in India. My mom always said she was an incredibly cool woman. Looks like it to be playing with a cobra.

My grandmother. I want a bathing suit like that, please. For my water aerobics class I think it'd be perfect.

So I think this is my great grandfather's father.

Okay, I saved my favorite for last.

These are my great great grandparents at their wedding. Love it.

Oh Seattle, how I love you in winter time.

2008-03-19T09:55:00.000-07:00

That's what it's going to look like for the next week of my life. Only minus the sun.

I am lucky...

2008-03-18T20:58:00.000-07:00

So I like my job and I'm well aware that I'm lucky to enjoy my job....because, we'll let's face it...most people don't. I bet you don't, do you?

So today we had meeting about social media and blogging, and how to speak with bloggers...now, I don't expect and PR people to approach me anytime soon and ask me to blog about their products or services, but wouldn't that be cool. I wonder what someone would approach me about....shoes, please, Lord...some PR person out there in the world approach me about writing about shoes. Who does PR for Jimmy Choo? I love Jimmy Choos and the people I talk to love to hear what kind of shoes I love. I love them. Give me.

Taryn Rose, I can wear your shoes, give me. Give me now.

These are just ridiculous enough to belong on my 7.5 sized foot.

Alright, I'm out.

My middle name is "Emo"

2008-03-18T14:19:00.000-07:00

Okay, so some of my teammates apologized, very nice of them. I decided to go emotional all over them, trying to lather on the guilt. Not sure that it worked.

I really appreciate your apologies, but I still would rather stay in "sub out" mode for the next couple games. If this were a first time occurrence, I'd be more forgiving, but I haven't felt welcome on the field since I started. Which is fine. I know I'm not good and I'm okay with that which is why I joined a D league. I just should have said something sooner so I didn't feel so emotional about it. That is definitely my mistake.

Maybe after awhile I'll feel like kicking it in a non-soccer capacity, but I don't think I'll come around until after the season has waned. While I know that none of you meant it personally and you all are really great people and folks I want to be friends with, I'm just still a little too crumpled on the edges to feel immediately ok.

While I certainly can't speak for Chris and I want him to keep playing, I don't know that he will. Again, best of luck.

Best,
Jessica

I have to check in with my mother to see if my chosen guilt technique was appropriate and I'll let you know what she says...haha. Just kidding, Mom.

Pussy footing

2008-03-18T12:52:00.000-07:00

I HATE the term "pussy footing," it's sooooo very irritating. I have heard a lot of it lately. When I started thinking about how much I hate that term, I started to think, "Well, Jessica, what would you prefer?" The truth is that I hate all words associated with doddling. They are all crappy words. Lolligag.....who the heck uses that freaking word. I hate hate hate it.

Okay, let me explain, I quit my soccer team. Why, you ask? Because I broke my foot? Because I have other plans? Because I'm emotional? Okay, its the last one. According to my teammates I spend too much time "pussy footing" on the field. So this is how the game went last night.

We had a girl sub for us who had never played with us before, so my teammates let her know that she shouldn't pass to me because I suck. True, I do suck, but not very nice of the teammates.

I missed defending the goal and the goalie said to a teammate that got mad "You know she can't handle it, she's not good, she can't handle it."

The goalie asked me to stay back and defend and another teammate yelled that I wasn't running enough and said "Jessica, if you're not going to run, then SUB OUT!" So I did. I subbed out for the rest of the season. Done and done.

I sent them an e-mail which I guess is ridiculous to show on here, but I will anyway.

Hi all,

As Chris mentioned to some of you last night I will not be playing for the rest of the season. I joined the team to have a good time and meet new people and last night was anything but fun. I understand being competitive, but I sincerely believe that you can do that and still be a good team player.

Unfortunately, last night's game made me feel not wanted and even took a hit to my self esteem. If I wanted to feel insecure, I would have saved myself the $145 and picked up a Cosmopolitan magazine instead.

I'd like to think that I've been kind to all of you, a good teammate and didn't ever make you feel unappreciated. I wish you the best of luck with the rest of the season.

Best,
Jessica

Hm....anyway. I won't be pussy footing anymore on the field. I've decided to move my efforts into the water. My first water aerobics class begins Wednesday evening, and I don't think it's much of a team sport so I should be free to lolligag at my own leasure. Ahhh, that will be so nice.

Happy St. Patrick's Day Today or this past Saturday if you're a practicing Catholic

2008-03-17T14:36:00.001-07:00

Work is going okay. Mostly I'm bored with A not here. She kept things in motion, made sure I was getting new and exciting tasks, kept things interesting. I'm going to have to learn to cope, though, because she's going to be gone for another 2 1/2 months on maternity leave. God save us all.

I have a soccer game tonight at Magunson, I hate playing there. It's an old warehouse and a lot of the windows have been shattered out so the temperature drops to around zero degrees. You think that would be nice because you get sweaty from running around, but no...it makes your skin feel like it's going to burn off, because internally you're hot but externally you're a glacier. Ugh. Tonight is one of my teammates last games because she took a job with Google in San Francisco, so she's off to live with the yuppies. Those San Francisco yuppies with their clean air and smothering sustainable lifestyle. Recycle...pshhhhhhhh...compost..pshhhhhh...

I think we're going to Peso's http://www.pesoskitchen.com/ as a going away ceremony, which is absolutely perfect because it's only 1 1/2 blocks from my house and a Mexican restaurant so I don't have to deal with green beer or people who drink green beer. Thank goodness. I might eat some guacamole just to be festive.

Alright, work time....

Weekend Update

2008-03-17T11:43:00.000-07:00

The weekend was pretty relaxing, as predicted, which I was totally thrilled about. Friday night resulted in a lot of absolutely nothing. I sat around and watched some television and went to bed early, which was perfect.

Saturday I got my hair cut, which I thought was pretty cute the day of, now I'm having second thoughts. Here's a picture of it...

It's alright. We'll see. I got some curlers to try and work it, but they're not really doing the job. I'll try to be a little bit more patience with it in the mornings and see what it produces.

After my hair cut I went shopping for some items and ended up with a cuutttee new pair of green flats from Payless.

So cute on my feet. I enjoy mucho. I am not wearing them today for St. Patrick's Day. Don't ask me why. I'm just not.

Saturday night I went to Venom which has to be exactly the type of place I don't ever want to go to, ever again. It is gross and gross and gross. Lots of girls with clothes that I know no mother would ever approve of, it would certainly get my mother's silent point to return to the house and change. It's winter time, ladies. There is no reason to show your bottom, even if your personality sucks. Lameness. I wore jeans an a long shirt in case you're curious. Anyway...I will never return there, unless someone offers up a hearty sum of cash...or shoes.

Sunday was good. I spent time with D and W, we went to brunch and then got our nails done. We're going to do that every two weeks to make sure we get to see each other and we're well manicured. It's good to see them, my work week has become so boring without them.

Anyway, that's enough for now. More later, if you're lucky.

A bit more to say today

2008-03-14T15:43:00.000-07:00

I'm not feeling well. I am almost certain I'm coming down with something. Makes me so sad. I want to kick it in the face. Bah. Stupid sickness. Maybe it will help me lose more weight...just kidding...kinda.

I'm excited about the weekend, it's going to be relaxing. I'm planning hanging out tonight, eating left over thai food and watching a movie. Tomorrow I'm getting my hair done, going shopping for some more pants (since I only have 4 pairs that fit my body now), hang out with some friends. Sunday I am brunching with some friends and getting my nails did and Sunday night I'm going to spend the night being alone and reading my book. Okay, all that sounds relatively boring but I'm excited.

I haven't posted any recent pictures, since I really haven't been writing, so here's one...

That's relatively recent. In the past monthish. I'll put up more later, kids. I'm out.

In Memory

2008-03-14T09:13:00.000-07:00

Somber start to the morning. Darci called this morning to let me know that a friend, Nathan Dodd, from growing up passed away in his sleep. Nathan was 24 years old and they aren't sure what was the cause.

While I haven't been a close friend to Nathan in years, when something like this happens it's easy to think back about how you were connected, how they affected you, and what you learned from your interactions and experiences with that person.

Nathan went through school with me, from grade school to highschool, and was always on the periphery of my life. He was one of those boys in middle school that all of the girls had the biggest crushes on and my 6th and 7th grade year books reflect exactly that. His picture is circled with hearts and a note to the side that says "hott!" During this time I didn't really interact with him, I was more of a silent observer...in band...in class...on field trips. I can remember one school field trip we went to Brookwood mall and got goodie bags for some band event and they had little tubes of toothpaste. Nathan ate my tube of toothpaste. I don't know why I remember that.

When I got into 8th grade and into high school, Nathan and I became better friends. We had the same group of friends. My friend Becky's play house in her backyard was our hang out for years and it's tattooed with his name and the random things that highschool boys write on walls...followed up with edits from the girls with "Nathan is a crazy" or hearts or whatever.

I went away to college and lost touch with Nathan. I'd hear about him now and again from friends, mostly that his antics were getting worse and worse and he was getting into more and more trouble.

I saw him again on December 23, 2006 at a party with some friends. He was barely coherant, but happy to see me. He told me things were going well and he was engaged to a wonderful girl. I don't think their engagement lasted much after that. I saw him again this Christmas and the interaction was similar again. He was incoherant, happy to see me and we talked for awhile. I told him about my life in Seattle and what I'd been up to. He turned to me and wrapped an arm around me and said the first clear statement he had said all night, "I always knew you'd do well Jess, take the world by storm." Nothing consequential happened for the rest of the evening and we parted without speaking again. Three months later, he passed away.

I'd like to think that was a good note to end on...he believed in me. That's how I'll chose to remember him. A fun-loving, handsome young man who believed in me.

Terrible day

2008-03-13T13:39:00.000-07:00

It is quite true that terrible days come to all of this, but today really is terrible. Okay, perhaps that's a bit mellow dramatic, nothing that terrible really happened to me personally, per say. It's just not going the way I'd like my day to go.

Started out pretty good. I went to Weight Watchers and lost 3.6 lbs this week, which is probably my biggest lost, ever. I was pretty excited about it and thought today could do me no wrong...I should have known better because as soon as I left WW, I headed down to my dentist office (literally in the same building, on the same floor, really amazing).

I hate having my teeth cleaned, who doesn't. It was just unpleasant and the dental tech scolded me for poor flossing, which honestly I thought I was a pro. Oh well.

Then to work. Wrong from the start. Bad meetings, missed meetings, snide e-mails to art directors, sloppy day on the job. Uncomfortable and in tight fitting jeans. Just misery.

Only two more meetings and then some random bits of work until I can go home and lay on the couch and watch P & P and feel sorry for myself.

Hm.

This is it..

2008-03-12T15:40:00.000-07:00

It's absolutely necessary for me to keep an updated log as to what's going on in my life, I don't know why I find it so difficult. I guess it's mostly because I know what is going on and I can't image another person finds anything in my life that interesting to sit there and read....but, maybe I might like it as a reference later in life. So here's where we stand since November 8.

Several of my close friends left work taking small bits of my enthusiasm with them. Work really does go by faster when there are people around you that you get along well with. That's alright, I'm bringing about some of my own internal happiness. It's too premature to mention what it is, yet.

I've been home a couple times since we last spoke...twice. I was there as recently as last week. I really do miss it. I miss my family a lot. I just wish that the flight home wasn't so long and I'd get to do it a lot more often. My brothers are in Tahoe this weekend, which would have been close but I couldn't afford that trip. Dang it.

Other things on the radar -- I'm playing soccer now and I've become an huge advocate of weight watchers although this week has been a little rough. But in the spirit of my love of the game, and to make me write more than I do now, I'll tell you what I've eaten today...

2 reduced calorie slices of bread (1 pt)
Reduce calorie cream cheese (1 pt)
1 cup grapes (1 pt)
Light and Fit Yogurt of the Peach persuasion (1 pt)
Lean Cuisine Sante Fe Rice and Beans (5 pts)
1 cup spinach (0 pt)
1 Hersey's Kiss (0.5 pt)

Yay. Weigh in is tomorrow. I'm setting my goal weight tomorrow. I think I'm about 11 pounds away from my goal weight. I'll keep you updated more later.

Livin' the life

2007-11-08T09:10:00.000-08:00

I moved into a new place in Queen Anne and I must admit, it's pretty much awesome. Two blocks from work which means a lot less driving. Here's what the new place has to offer that the old place was lacking.

-Ridiculously close to work
-1 1/2 blocks from a grocery store
-2 blocks from drug store
-Tons of restaurants
-Tons of randoms
-Tons of joy

To give you an idea of how flippin' sweet the new set up here's my walk to work.

Out my front door at 8:27. I walk down the street to cross my apartments cross streets. Directly at 10 o'clock I can see the Space Needle tower over me. In the distance I can see the top of the Columbia Tower, the tallest building in Seattle. So good. I walk down the block and cross over another street with a lot of choice restaurants and a Radio Shack in case I'm ever in need. Down the next block is a danish bakery est. in 1965, that's what it's window claims anyway. The fresh baked pastries smell so incredible every single morning. Maybe one day I'll slip in for a treat. Next to it is an old fashion barber shop, and then a key making place which I've already visited (to make extra keys for the apartment). Then, work. I'm sitting at my desk at exactly 8:30. Absolutely perfect.

What I'll miss about my Greenlake house.

-Free laundry
-Parking
-My roommates craziness, it actually was mildly entertaining
-...okay I have nothing else

In addition I've joined weight watchers and I'm in my third week. This week I've lost 3.2 pounds. Brings me down about 6 lbs. I'm pushing for another 10 or so and then I think I'll be okay. My clothes are already getting kinda baggy and as much as I'd love to go shopping for a bunch of new clothes....I don't have the funding yet.

House warming party tomorrow night. I don't have a couch. People will enjoy my soft, sultry carpet. Meh.

Sunday is the boyfriend's birthday.

Next week a PRSSA buddy is in town for the weekend. We're going to Portland for the friend Thanksgiving. I'm really excited. A friend from highschool moved to Portland this last week and it will be so nice to see her. Help get her settled in her new space and introduce her to friends. Give her the same kindness that was given to me when I first arrived here.

Three days later I'll be in Boston for Thanksgiving. Chris is coming. So good to see family. I can't wait to see my cousins and aunts and uncles. Not my mom and brothers, but I'll see them a month later. I hope. Anyone want to fund me flying home? Now accepting donations.

Interesting perspective

2007-10-31T14:55:00.000-07:00

You Belong in New York City

You're the energetic, ambitious type.And only NYC is fast enough for you.Maybe you'll set yourself up with a killer careerOr simply take in all the city has to offer.

What'>http://www.blogthings.com/whatcitydoyoubelonginquiz/">What City Do You Belong In?

Hm, I think I'll look into that.

It's been awhile.

2007-10-27T09:23:00.000-07:00

Good morning....sorry it's been awhile. I'd like to say that there have been massive changes in my life since I spoke with you three months ago, but that's only partially true...mostly more of the same. To update you on the monotony of my life since then, however, would take awhile...so I'll skip to the good parts.

Neil came to visit the beginning of August and it was nice to have him here. First time to see him since he left for Dijibouti last August, so it was good to catch up and show him my Seattle..he loved it I think.

I went home right after that for a week. So, so good to be home. I promised myself rest but I didn't get any, saw some good friends and had an epiphany -- most of my friends there will never be the same kind of friends again. People I was close to there, I don't know anymore and they don't know me. But, that's okay. I suppose it's a part of growing and finding myself, or something. Who the heck knows. Anyway, I got a lot of sweet tea, some cheese biscuits and Surin so it worked out.

It's been a whirlwind since then. I turned 23. Broke a heart. Fell in love. Brother is here from Japan. Going to Boston for Thanksgiving. PRSA. Law School? Moving...tomorrow.

I'll dive deeper into my inner being in the next entry...now that we're caught up.

2007-07-10T22:53:00.000-07:00

I had my review today, for the most part pretty positive. I'm feeling good about it and looking forward to what my future holds. I'll give you updates as they occur.

I had a wonderful weekend, probably one of the best I've had in awhile. Patrick and Chris went with me and Do to the Pike Market on Saturday and then we spent the afternoon playing frisbee at GasWorks, my favorite park in all of Seattle.

Ahhh, so beautiful.

Saturday night a group of us went out for Father's birthday. We hung out in Fremont at the Ballroom for most of the night. It's always fun to go out and dance for a bit.

This is part of the group: Alex, Father, Kenny, Chirag, Me, Kaylee and Chris

Good times.

Sunday we woke up and all went rafting down the Snoqualmie River. Such a good time. The rapids were a little intense and it was freezing freaking cold but totally worth it.

All and all a pretty good weekend. I hope this week starts shaping up...

It's a nice day for a walk..

2007-07-03T18:00:00.000-07:00

We had a half day at work today. So amazing. I went in and worked on a couple client needs, got an e-mail from Kiry and then left. It was such an beautiful day outside, too, I'm glad I didn't have to stay in doors. I went down to the gym and ran for awhile, walked around Queen Anne...then came home and talked with my roommate, it was good to see him again. He's been spending most of his time working and with his girlfriend...not cooking for me like he should be. Hmph. Nah, I'm happy for him.

Then I took a nap. I can't remember the last time I took a nap. I probably won't be spending an exceptional amount of time with Patrick and Chris tonight, I think they're kinda tired after we spent last night at the Garage bowling (I bowled a 135, yo!), Blue C Sushi (conveyer belt sushi) and Kerry Park.

Forth is tomorrow and I'm actually feeling a little patriotic. Not sure what that is about, I'm sure it's a feeling that will pass in time.

This girl is back in town.

2007-07-02T17:03:00.000-07:00

You thought I had gone MIA, unfortunately, no that's not the case. I have been very busy and it doesn't appear that things are going to slow down any time soon. I'm actually looking forward to this summer, like I said back in April, summer is going to be great. It already has been.

I'd like to apologize for not being on top of the blogosphere but I will get back in the game, I want to keep you dear readers in touch with my exciting day to day.

Recappin' the past:

Since I last spoke with you I had a visitor, Brett, came in town. It was great to have him here, we got to Seattle it up. He's talking about coming back sometime soon. Hopefully it is a possibility.

Scott was also in town at the beginning of May and it was nice to have him here. We went to Leavenworth which is probably the coolest place, EVER. It is a Bavarian town in the middle of no where Washington - that's right folks, it's Bavarian by CITY LAW. All store fronts look Bavarian, it's wonderful. I am definitely making place to go back for Oktoberfest. Whoop, whoop.

I also made a trip to NYC to visit Scott and had a good time. NYC is just one of those places you love to be in. Such a wonderful vibe. It's pperrrrffeeecct.

Last week I got to go the Red Sox/Mariners games and regardless of the sweet things getting swept, I had such an amazing time. Baseball games are just incredible - the people, the antagonizing fans, the spirit, the smells, the sun. I absolutely love it. I also was on MLBTV a few times during the game, I can't say I blame them for picking me out of the crowd, I mean it is my face and all. Ha.

Work is going really well. Busy but great. I'm really feeling competent at my job and I think I'm doing a pretty good job of it. We will see once I have my review next week if my boss feels the same :) But in the 4 1/2 months I have been here, I think I've covered a lot of ground and learned a tremendous about myself. I think that's what's important. What's even more important is that I love my career self. I rock.

Now Patrick and Chris are in town for the week and I'm looking forward to showing them Seattle's digs. We went to Chinook's last night for dinner (a restaurant in Fisherman Terminal) and I'm not sure if we have much on the agenda for tonight. Definitely going to try to loop them into some pretty great Fourth of July plans. I'll let you know.

Here's the score for the rest of the summer:

Patrick/Chris here until July 9

Scott here from July 8 - 24, I think?

Portland for Skull Island Fiesta July 20-22

My 15 mile relay July 28

Maybe a friend in town July 27-29

Red Sox and Zach Aug 3-5

Neil/Antonia in town Aug 9 - 14

Home to Mom and a glass full of sweet tea Aug 15-20* I think

Yup, like I said, it's going to be a great summer.

On the 12th day since my blog...my true love gave to me....flowers..

2007-04-28T10:41:00.000-07:00

Okay, so it's been awhile. A long while. I've been busy. Really really busy. And when I'm not working, I'm sleeping or running or talking to Scott or something random. I guess it's hard to put into words what is going on when there is nothing worth relaying, at least not in my daily happenings in Seattle. I don't know, I've been avoiding everything in my life. I need to get over that super quick it is no bueno.

Scott sent me flowers at work the other day, they're beautiful. They have hot pink gerber daisies, tulips and roses - I like them a lot. It will be wonderful to have him here in a couple weeks, just to hang out and enjoy Seattle together. Go to my formal : ) Good times.

Last weekend was wonderful. I went to B & O for brunch with Kim P (she was on PRSSA's National Committee in 2003) and we walked around Capitol Hill checking out vintage shops. We also went to Daily Candy www.dailycandy.com and I bought two super cute dresses. One which I plan to wear for formal. So precious. We also went to Fredmont's market place and just had a great time. Yay.

I wish I could say something monumental was going on here, it's sunny. That's good news.

I'll write when I'm inspired again.

Peace out homeslices.

No more summer camp

2007-04-16T23:03:00.000-07:00

My mom told me when I moved here initially to pretend like I was going away to summer camp. Going to check things out, have some fun in the sun and then head back home. Today, I've been here two months. I think that ends my stint at "summer camp." Seasons are changing, and reality is settling. I'm surprisingly okay.

Work is good. Busy, but good. I enjoy my job, I enjoy the environment, I enjoy my clients. It's good. I think that is helping ease the transition a lot quicker. Also, I made some great friends while away at summer camp. You always do. It's those friends that you carry with you into the start of each school year. I'm taking a few with me. I spent this weekend with Kenny on Friday night at a sorority function and then Friday late night with Travis, Chirag and some girls from my sorority. Saturday morning I began with my sorority's centennial celebration and then hung out with the guys and Kaylee at an Indian (dot, not feather) dance competition. It was pretty freaking amazing. I wish I had the ability to dance in such beautiful motion. We went to the after party at EMP and danced some and that was a wonderful time. It was a great summer end bash. I'm looking forward to the next couple months, fall is my favorite time of year, anyway.