Day FIVE

Hello Everyone....sorry for the delay in posting these. I am settled in Utah.....I even have an apartment which I will move into on Monday! Yay! Now I just need a car and a job and life will be good. Ha Ha ha Anyway, I will try to get the rest of the trip posts up......here is midweek last week.
I woke up early and hit the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis. This museum is located at the Motel where Martin Luther King was shot in 1968. The museum requires you to check your camera when you enter so the only pictures I have are from the outside.





I found the museum very informative. But I must admit that the set up of the museum wasn't very clear. The flow of information wasn't always clear and everything wasn't always documented. There were a lot of pictures that I didn't know who they were and the signs didn't explain them.

After the museum I headed out of town and on to St. Louis. I had promised people that I wouldn't stay the night in St Louis as it is apparently a fairly dangerous city. So I chose to leave Memphis early in the day so I could hit the St. Louis Arch during the daylight hours. I arrived and got lost. So maybe everyone was right about me not staying there. As Steph says it is very possible that I would end up in the middle of a gang war in the ghetto. Lol! The Arch was pretty cool. I got to stay for a bit at the top and took a bunch of pictures. I evan had the ranger take a picture of me at the center point. FYI.....the arch is 630 feet tall and 630 feet wide.

It was late in the afternoon when I arrived so I had to rush through the museum at the base but it seems to have a lot of information even if there didn't seem to be an obvious beginning or ending point.

Also as I was the last person to arrive before they closed the trams that run up each of the legs of the arch I got to ride in a tram all by myself. Which I am very grateful for. All I would think was that this is how Mork felt in Mork & Mindy. It was a tiny egg shaped elevator thing that was supposed to seat 5 people. Ugh!


The people were really nice and I was on my way to Hannibal Missouri as night fell.

What day is it?

So there was a change of plans yesterday......when I realized that there was snow predicted for Wyoming all through the beginning of the coming week I decided that my plans had to change. I didn't want to get stuck some where. There were multiple calls to friends and family that have either driven through the area or live in the area to help me decide what to do. A decision was finally made to keep course to Winter Quarters in Nebraska and then cut across Nebraska to Wyoming and head home today. While I was supposed to stay the night in Omaha.....I changed my mind when I noticed that the roads were clear and I was totally hopped up on Cherry Coke. I figured I would just drive until I either got tired of the snow caught up with me.

Unfortunately, the snow caught up with me about 3 hours outside of Cheyenne..........without a decent hotel in sight. Ugh! But The caffeine crash came about an hour outside of Cheyenne but by then the roads were clear again (thank you for snow plows!!) and the snow had stopped and I was determined to make it to a nice bed at the Holiday in Express in Cheyenne.

I got in around 3:30 and was up at 8:30......vaguely........a call with my friend Laurie gave me the bad news. I-80 East and West has been closed.......but they hope to be open in the am. So I went back to bed.....lol! Forgetting to reset my alarm so I could go to church. Now that I am awake sacrament meeting is almost over. So instead I am going to go to lunch with Laurie and enjoy the rest of my Sabbath.

May be I will get the rest of my pictures up.

Day FOUR.....

Yesterday started with a trip to the land of the King: Graceland.
I learned quite a bit about about the Presley family yesterday. This isn't all that surprising once you consider the fact that the only thing I knew about the Presley's before yesterday was that my younger siste, Gretchen, liked to listen to Elvis music when she was in high school. Walking around the various exhibits at Graceland was fun. While I might not have been a huge fan, I can understand the effect Elvis had on many people, both of my generation and my parents generation. I even ended up buying a bunch of the Elvis movies as I haven't seen any of them. While talking to my dad last night, I learned that he has seen every one of them. Lol! It makes sense, but was not something thaty we have ever discussed before.
I find it interesting, that the green 70's shag carpet in Elvis' house wasn't just on the floor.......it was also on the ceiling in some of the rooms. I found that a bit odd... and still don't know the purpose of that. Anyone have any clues?
I think my personal favorite Elvis tidbit was that Elvis liked to read......A Lot! Every where he traveled he packed a TRUNK of books. When he flew on his plane The Lisa Marie (which I saw and took pictures of) the trunk was kept in his room on the plane so that he could read before going to bed. See.....I am not the only one that packs a stock of reading material. Lol!

After finishing up at Graceland, I headed over to the Rock 'n' Soul museum to learn about the start of Jazz, Blues, and Rock and Roll. Another place full of information where I didn't take any pictures. I must admit by the time I was done it was dark and I didn't want to be out by myself, so I jsut headed back to my hotel. There was a small detour to find a grocery store....which unfortunately took me through the hood........I finally found a Piggly Wiggly just like in the movie Win A Date With Tad Hamilton. Now I can say that I have been to one. ;)

Well.....now it is after 10 pm and I am tired......I'll have to write about today in the morning.

Day THREE...

I am headed to Graceland here in a few minutes but wanted to get my thoughts down about yesterday.
The morning started bright and early with a trip to the Country Music Hall of Fame. As everyone knows, I like country music and so the chance to see the Hall of Fame was at the top of my trip wants. What I didn't realize was that it would be kind of like hitting a museum at the Smithsonian and expecting to take it all in, in one morning. There was tons of information and I think I was a bit overwhelmed. I must admit that the building itself is pretty awesome. I was told that the building was shaped to represent 3 distinct things. You'll notice that the main body is shaped like a keyboard, the piano keys run into the lobby of the inside as well. Second any one who knows their carts will see the old school Cadillac fin shape. Finally the third is that it is shaped like a Bass Clef. As Meg said when i described it.....It sounds a bit "white trash" but it looks pretty cool. ;)
I didn't take all that many pictures inside because I was trying to assimilate all of the information but I did see Elvis' Solid Gold Caddy.

I Also learned a lot about the Hank William's family. Since I didn't start listening to country music until the mid 90's, I had a lot to learn. Mainly, who he was.......LOL! I ended up buying my first Hank Williams CD in the book store. Good stuff, if you like the old school twang.

I also saw Big Kenny's Top Hat!! I have loved Big 'N' Rich for a while now. They sing a song called the 8th of November that is very moving. And last year while I was visiting with Boo's family I met her uncle who served in the 173rd airborne. It was really cool for me. So it was a way cool display for me to see.



From there, I had a short tour of Studio B....the RCA studio where Elvis and others recorded from the 50's to the 70's. They still have the piano that Elvis would play when he recorded.


After I finished those I headed on over to the Ryman Auditorium. You might know it as the original site of the Grand Ole Opry. I must admit, the building is quite the grand old gal. When I sat in her pews, it felt like I was sitting in the tabernacle in Salt Lake. Which makes sense, as I was told no less then 3 times that the Ryman's acoustics are second in the world. Who is first....that's right the Mormon Tabernacle in Salt Lake City. (Had to have a Mormon moment at least once.)I got to stand on the stage (they even let me play whit a guitar....ooooohhhhhh). It is was quite a moment for me as I now know about the history there. The girl who took my picture was really nice and we had quite a little chat. Once she found out I was on my way to Memphis that afternoon she suggested my dinner spot. She laughed and told me that I would think she was crazy when I arrived. Which I did. It was a roadside buffet, called Loretta Lynn's Kitchen. And well.....there wasn't much to it......but I have to admit the girl knew her food. Good night nurse, it was good southern cooking and I probably added 15 pounds to my hips . But it was totally worth it. ;)

So......4 books and 1 Hank William's CD later and I was on the road to Memphis. It was nice to have the time to chat with some friends........old and new. I got to talk to my dad, my sister Tiana, my best friend Meg, and Drew from high school. By the time I checked into my hotel my battery was almost dead. Lol!

Now, I off to shower and learn more about the King of Rock and Roll! Wish me luck. Lol!

Day TWO.....

Here I sit in my hotel room in Nashville. This won’t go up until I have access to the internet but I thought I would get my thoughts down while I had time.

Today started extremely early for me, only to find out that the museum I wanted to stop by didn’t open until 10 am during the winter hours. So, in an effort to use all of my time in Knoxville wisely............I went back to bed. Lol!


I almost changed my mind and just headed on to Nashville, but I am really glad I didn’t. The Museum of Appalachia was fascinating. What I expected to be a large
building with a bunch of exhibits turned out to be a village and farm full of artifacts.


Even the buildings were artifacts. Some had been transplanted and restored, others were replicas. It was really cool. Though it was really funny.
I believe I was the only person on the grounds that didn’t work there. When I arrived, the woman who gave me my ticket told me that I would have to wait while they opened the buildings. Might have had something to do with the fact that it was freezing cold and the inauguration had already started by the time I left. As you can see from the pictures I had fun.





From there I drove to Nashville. While driving, I had the opportunity to listen to President Obama take the Oath of Office and then give his inauguration speech. It was quite a moment in history and I will always remember that I was driving the freeways of East Tennessee when this moment happened.

Once in Nashville I checked into the hotel (I promise, this one is better then the last one. ) and relaxed for a bit before heading out to a small cafe with live music. The Bluebird Cafe is apparently known for “hosting some of Nashville’s most talented songwriters” and I figured a low key night with acoustic music could be fun.
I really enjoyed it, I even bought 2 of the CD’s. The music was fun and the atmosphere was relaxing.
There were 4 people performing tonight:
Will Hodge
Matt King
Sarah Majors
Ashley Harris

One bit of irony......I traveled to Tennessee, all by myself and end up at the one event where a Mormon is preforming. LOL! Yup, over a year ago, my dad sent me a signed cd of the Mormon singer Ashley Harris. I had a good chuckle when I saw her name of the list of performances and realized that her “fans” sitting behind here were a bunch of Mormon women from Atlanta.
(P.S. Update on the connection to Ashley Harris.........Apparently, my dad served in the Bishopric (LDS leaders in a congregation) with her husband in Mesa. So not only did I end up at the one event where a Mormon was performing, but I ended up at an event where there was a family connection. It never fails. The Mormon world is just too small!)

Day ONE (1)

Today started my personal trek across the country. I am currently hunkered down in a No-Tell Motel (Boo it was soooooo not what I thought!) in Knoxville. Today was my driving day. The rest of my trip will be my playing days.

I have been taking pictures but I left my camera locked up in my car and it is toooooo cold to go out and get it. There fore the pictures will have to go up tomorrow.

As I said it was driving day.....I had a very nice brunch this morning with Kate and Steph then I hit the road. The drive was clear most of the way, and as always the country side is very pretty for the most part. Driving by yourself means that there is a lot of time for thinking, talking on the phone, and singing along to the radio at the top of your lungs. I did all of the above. Be grateful you weren't here to be subjected to the torture. :)
Unfortunately, my Sheila (the name of my GPS unit) decided that I should travel the whole way on backwoods country roads. Not so fun for me. I am not a huge fan of winding steep hills.

Well I am going to crash. I need to get some sleep so I can get to the Musuem of Appalachia early tomorrow morning before heading on to Nashville.

Beyond tired.....

Yesterday after Sushi......where I ate most of a Dragon Roll.....
Really would you have eaten the tail? I couldn't get it past my brain, especially after the guys kept referring to it as the "Keith Richards tongue".

(**Author's Note** Apparently I mis-remembered. Thanks to David for the head's up. This was referred to as the Gene Simmon's Classic. My mistake.....either way....Not gonna go in my mouth ;) )

Anyway back on topic, After the dragon roll I hit a bookstore to find a book of places to see on my travels. After a few hours there it was off to Alexandria to hang out with Heather (Tina....I'm so sad that you couldn't make it, I hope you are feeling better already.)
Dinner and a movie,Paul Blart, Mall Cop (funny stuff), I headed home to do laundry and pack until about 4 in the morning. 45 minutes later I was up and showering for the New York trip. It is a good thing Tink was driving, because I was exhausted. I slept off and on for about an hour and a half so the minute we hit NY we were off to see all of the fun.

First stop was the Museum of the City of New York, which was Tink's Choice.It had some great exhibits, specifically, a photography exhibit by Eudora Welty which I found fascinating and a timeline narrorated by Stanley Tucci that was really informative.

Stop Number 2 was a walk through Central Park. Yes, my friends love me, because in 14 degree weather they will let me check Central Park off my list by walking through it in the cold. Brrrrr! But it is a beautiful park, even if it had a layer of snow.

From there we went to a greasy spoon dinner for lunch and then headed on to the New York City Public Library. Talk about taking your breath away. The architecture is amazing, and the Reading room is enormaous. There were two exhibits that caught our eye. One on Yaddo, a haven for artists trying to create. The other was a pictoral look back on the faces of the people of Afghanistan. Both were very interesting.

Unfortunately, during the visit to the library, my Blackberry stopped working. Long story short, I had to buy a cheapo, $20 phone that I will use as I cross the country. When I get to Utah, I can call them and have a place for them to send the new one. I stressed just a tad, but Tink, Kara and her hubby Craig kept their heads and were able to think outside the box for solutions. Not something I could do in my tired condition.

Dinner with Craig was at a place called Spanky's. Disturbing huh. But I am told the BBQ is good. Us gilrs split appetoizers and dessert as we were all still pretty full from lunch.

Our final stop for the even was the Theatre. Mary Poppins was the show for us this evening. This was my choice for the trip, as it is one I wanted to see. Unfortunately, in one of my less then brilliant ideas I suggested we see this play. And I have no complaints about the play itself. But the little kids that attened got on my very last nerve. There was a little girl that screaded behind us and others were kicking all of our chairs. It was very irritating. As for the show, I enjoyed it. Bert was great! My only caveat is that I enjoy the Disney movie more. Most likely because it is what I have grown up on.

Okay, I am so tired I can't keep my eye's open.

G'night

Goodbyes....

Yesterday was a hard day.

And not only because it was the last day in the office but because we had to tape up almost 115 boxes of files for the UPS guys to ship. Paper can be very VERY heavy. I'm a touch sore today and my hands have been ripped to shreds.

But that is not the reason for this post.

Yesterday was also my last day at the office. I am now officially unemployed. But I really have to much to do to linger on the fact that I am never again going to wake up and head into the office on Westpark Drive. Sad thought. Monday I start my trek across the country back to Utah.....I won't be back here for a long time. Even sadder thought. Darn school!

Anyway...yesterday.....last day in the office.......

4 years ago I came to The District without a plan. I found a place to live and fell into a job as a receptionist. Who knew that 4 years later I would have settled into a company that has become almost a family to me.

As I said goodbye to the ladies there it was weird to realize that I won't be part of the future lunches they plan or the American Idol pools that we have had for the past 3 years. I won't be going to Annapolis for crabfest's or long lunches where we all laugh and talk.

Kristin and I prolonged things as long as possible these last 2 days. We stayed late, talking and packing, on Wednesday and then went for lunch and a bit of book shopping therapy yesterday. She heads to Louisiana today and doesn't return until after I have left for my trip. As she dropped me off at the metro for the last time and we hugged good bye, I wanted to cry.....but I don't do that in public. :P Kristin has become more then my boss these last few years. Not only is she a great friend, but she is almost like a big sister sometimes. She has watched out for me over the years here and I am more grateful then I can express for the time I had to work with and learn from her.

The people here have had a profound impact on my life, teaching me about different working styles and atmospheres. These are wonderful people and I have learned something valuable from each one. I can't believe I am not gonna hear Joe laugh or talk with Anne and Moira about the things going on. There are quite a few others that I saw on a regular basis, and would stop and take the time to chat with here and there. What's gonna happen to Suzanne's son in Germany playing ball? Or David's son that is back in School. Or Jonathan's 2 adorable baby girls (though I guess they aren't babies any more are they Jonathan?) What about Nancy, who helped me through Kristin's maternity leave? or Beth and her family in Connecticut.

Today I go to lunch with the guys I made friends with in the beginning, when I was just the lowly receptionist. The guys in R and D made coming into work then fun. I haven't had much time to spend with them in the last couple of years as I was integrated into the HR position (plus I no longer had the good candy they wanted; that stayed at the front desk.)
There were the Mormon jokes from Karl, the cracks from John and Subodh, Paul and Ben were good for a chat about anything that came up, (and a really cool new years eve one year. ;) ), Hugh was the silent one, with some really good one-liners, Eddie always wanted Friday....and a smoke. Lol! Rob with his comfortable leather chair, Karen and all of the rest.....

I could go on and name each employee (Happens when you work in HR at a small company) but I won't. I guess what I am taking away from this experience is that even thousands of miles away from my family.....I have family. This job wasn't supposed to be a permanent part of my life, it was a stopping point on the road back to school. But it has left a mark, a mark I am glad to carry with me. And thanks to modern technology, I can and will keep in touch with the great friends I have made here.

....AND......they can all read this and embarrass me about it at lunch. Doesn't that sound like fun. Lol!

Okay enough of the mush.....next time I am online, I will give you a run down of the playing I have done and that I plan to do over the next couple of weeks.

Plus I want to write about the play Funeral Potatoes that is back in theatres.....I wish I could go but it doesn't run until after I leave. I am so sad.....so you all have to go for me!

B-I-N-G-O

Could some one please tell me why I have woken up every day for the past 3 days singing the Bingo song?

I am rather disturbed about it. :)

I couldn't help myself......(Part Deux)

So I came across this video on St. Richards Blog and I had to share.

He apparently posted it forever ago and I just haven't had time to watch it until today. Boy am I glad I did!

Enjoy the chuckle!

I couldn't help myself......

I know...I know....

Who needs a quiz to get this answer. In case you were wondering I was just a touch more Literate Good Citizen then Obsessive-Compulsive Bookworm. Which is really quite a relief. ;)

What Kind of Reader Are You? Your Result: Dedicated Reader You are always trying to find the time to get back to your book. You are convinced that the world would be a much better place if only everyone read more.
Literate Good Citizen
Obsessive-Compulsive Bookworm
Book Snob
Fad Reader
Non-Reader
What Kind of Reader Are You? Quiz Created on GoToQuiz

What to do..........

I have exactly 2 weeks left here in the district.

*GASP*

2 WEEKS!!!

In an effort not to miss the important things, I am compiling a list of things that I haven't done but MUST do before leaving the area.

What do you suggest? What is on your "MUST SEE" list? What will I regret not seeing?


P.S.
Of the things I haven't done, Mt. Vernon, Arlington Cemetery, and another trip to NYC are already on the list.

Week in Review

I have at least 3 blogs started on my blackberry that will never see the actual blog. I haven't been able to gather my thoughts. It has been quite a week.

- The trip to Idaho was a bit scary as we were driving some pretty icy roads. It was good to see my family. My little sisters are really starting to grow up. It is crazy how old they are getting.

- I traveled home on Monday and finished the packing.

-Tuesday I packed the storage unit and moved into the temporary housing. I can't tell you how much I love living in Georgetown. Even if it is only for the nex couple of weeks.

- Wednesday was New Year's Eve.......I feel a bit lazy as I didn't do anything really special. But I just got the new Feehan book and spent the evening reading it. (For me I had a GREAT night!!)

-Today I spent the day playing at Pache's house. There was a really late brunch, Wii playing, Phase 10 Thai food......The night still continues. Wahoo!

Now I just have to figure out what to do with tomorrow. My awesome work gave me the day off.....Wahoo for a 4 day weekend. :)

Happy New Year!

Maybe tomorrow I will be able to gather my thoughts and write some of them down.

Merry Christmas.

I know, I know. I'm a punk. But it's almost 2 in the morning and since I'm working on 3 hours of sleep, my brain is too tired to text and/or email all my friends individually.

So to all those here at home and abroad:

Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night.

Love you all!

Rae
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

I'm exhausted.

Tonight I did something I haven't done in a long time. While listening to the sounds of family playing I curled up on a couch next to the Christmas tree with my book. I could hear the boys playing hero scape(??) And others watching a Christmas movie. My sister Gretchen was manning the stove as we continue to crank out Christmas cookies. It was a pleasant back drop to my reading. It didn't take long for the pages to blur and my eyes to close. 2 HOURS later I woke up at midnight and now I can't seem to fall back asleep. Lol!

*sigh* tomorrow is gonna be a big day so I have to get some sleep. Argh.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

Christmas in Utah

I wanted to get today written about so that in the years to come I don't forget about it.

I have now been home with the fam for 3 full days. Each day has been full of nostalgic moments and fun. It is so good to be able to see my siblings and to be surrounded with the familiar. As I missed Christmas here last year, I am enjoying the sights of the family Christmas tree and the many Christmas decorations that mom has collected over the years.

Today I had the chance to attend church with my "home ward". For those that aren't LDS that means I went to the congregation that I attended growing up. Of course there were many new faces. It has been 4 years since I was a regular here. But there were many that I remember from years passed. I think the funniest moment I had was when I was approached by a young woman while I was talking with my mother. She addressed us as "Sister Gifford" and it took me a minute to realize that she wasn't speaking to my mother. Lol! She is a girl that I had taught in primary 8 or so years ago. I hardly recognized her. But it was nice to be remembered, even if it made me feel old (Sister Gifford, indeed).

The meeting consisted of about 4 speakers and lots of Christmas hymns. My favorite being Silent Night, which has ended our Christmas Services for years. The organist always plays the bells for the last verse. It is very nice, and a small nostalgic moment for me. :)

There was a short Christmas Pageant during Primary with my youngest brother and one of my nephews participating and then we headed off to attend the ordination of my brother Cricket. He was made a priest today (Right now, I can't think of an easy way to explain this for the Non-LDS if you want email me and I can explain it later) and all but one brother and his wife was able to attend.

We then headed off to my parents house for dinner and dessert. There was fun and chaos and food galore.
After hours spent talking and eating and talking some more we decided to play a couple of games. I can't even begin to tell you how hilarious Do You Love Your Neighbor is when you have "big kids" (adults) involved. I think all of my siblings played, even my pregnant sister and the ones with babies in arms. My parents even joined in. You could probably hear the laughter down the block, as we tend to get a bit competitive when we gather as a family. Lucky we sustained only 2 injuries during the game. One being a chair that broke...hee hee hee....and one being a little one that got caught in a 3 way battle for a seat.

After every one had to leave me and Wog and Goose settled in with some of my fabulous popcorn for the movie The Night They Saved Christmas. Another wonderfully nostalgic movie. It is much different watching it as an adult.

And that is my day. There was lots of conversatin' and laughing and fun. I want to remember this.

P.S. The cat is out of the bag....I broke under pressure last night. I really wasn't prepared to lie....though if I wanted to keep y secret I guess I should have been.........but then again I am horrible at lying....so I don't think any preparation would have done me any good.

Any way, I told the family last night about my plans to move back to Utah. I broke the news to my mother tonight. She seemed pleased. ;)

Christmas in Killarney

Its that time of year again and I have been humming this song for a week or more now. So I am inflicting upon you poor souls. Lol!

As I mentioned last year. This is one of the Christmas songs that I remember from my childhood. We played it every year (though with out the alcohol....)

So enjoy!

Amy is the Greatest!

A while back......sometime last month. I blogged about my love of instrumental music. Amy introduced me to William Joseph.

Now I am 2 cd's in and loving it. Thanks Amy.

Enjoy Within (Performed live in Saskatoon)

Seated by a cop

You know, I guess it says something about the neighborhood when you go to IHOP for a late dinner and the gentleman who seats you is a cop who is there to keep the peace.

Moving when?
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

A few more details....

This post is for all those that I have been too crazy busy to talk to yet you still read my blog. First...wow, Thanks!

Secondly, the reason for my busy-ness.........

On November 13th the company I have been working for merged with another company. What did this mean for me? A lot of crazy hours starting months ago. Hence the blogs from the back of a cab at midnight. As the other company already has a staffed HR department, my boss and I (along with quite a few others) will not be staying on with the new company. We have been asked to stay through a transition period and will be given a generous severance package to help us in our endeavors to find a new positions.

Third, as most of you know, I have decided to move out of the hood. One mugging is enough to scare this white girl back to the burbs.

Roll these together and what do we come up with? Rachel at loose ends for work and housing come January.

So, you ask, what is this plan that has got Rachel all excited?

The answer: SCHOOL

I've missed deadlines right now and I will have to re-apply and all of that rot, but here is what I figure. Once I get settled in, I can start work at a Temp agency or if needed I could even work at a bookstore (I know such a hardship for me.). Letting them know that I will only be available full time until what ever date classes start. Then I will move to part time and attend classes full time, using my severance to pay for tuition and my part time job to cover living expenses. If I play it right, my severance could get me though at least 2 if not 3 or 4 semesters of tuition and books.

So that is the plan.....I am really excited! And really really nervous. Lol!

I have a plan.

I can't tell you how excited I am.

I have a plan that would take me through the next couple of years.

Its a bit un-nerving to make this kind of decision. Ack!
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

A day to be grateful.

Here I am again at the american history museum. Except the roles seem to be reversed as I am the one to arrive first. The morning is gorgeous so with the sun shining on my back I sit here with my iPod playing in my ear and a book in my lap.

People are starting to gather s I have to get in line but reallly how can I complain about the freakin' tourists on my playground when I'm in such a great mood. :)
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

Anger Management

Those who have known me long enough (or are married to people who have known me long enough) can remember a time when I had a temper. There was a time when I used that temper as an excuse to react violently. As the years have passed (since there have been so many HA!) I have made a conscious effort not to lose my temper. It was a goal I had made after many talks with my dad (Kent) about who was really in control of my emotions.

I haven't really had to pay attention to this goal in the last 4 years because there was little need. There have been a few times where my temper has gotten the better of me but I was able to walk away so it was nothing major. Not to say there has been no anger in the last 4 years just that there was no yelling, violence, or wild accusations or anything else that used to mark my arguments.

Why do I bring this up now, you ask? Well, last night I realized that I really do control my temper. It has taken more then 11 years but in the midst of someone yelling at me I was able to think clearly and rationally. I was able to stay calm and realize that it wasn't worth the argument.

Not something I would have done at other times in years past. This doesn't mean that the reaction wasn't there. By the time I was back in bed the adrenaline had hit and I was shaking with no outlet (I decided to read until it faded). The urge to defend myself and my actions was there but it wasn't worth getting all riled up, especially when I had to work in the morning.

It's nice to know that in some ways I am growing up. Even if I still prefer to live my life in a world of books.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

For Julia......and Jess

Julia over at Julia's Book Corner tagged me....TWICE! And Jess from Capital Hill Romance caught me forever ago.....

Hold on tight....you get all the answers in one. Please scroll down and see if you are tagged. ;)


The BookWorm Award............
Rules:
Open the closest book to you, not your favorite or most intellectual book, but the book closest to you at the moment, to page 56. Write out the fifth sentence, as well as two to five sentences following.


(Be grateful that Ben has me reading history right now instead of smut.)


So from Today's current book, The Killer Angels by Michael Shaara:

Longstreet remembered his manners. "Oh, excuse me, Colonel. Allow me to present our George Pickett. Our loveliest general. General Pickett, Colonel Fremantle of the Coldstream Guards."

Tag five people to pass on the award and Meme.
My Five are:
Kathy
Steph
Meg
Jess
Jeremy


7 Random Book Facts Meme....

Rules:

• Link the person who tagged you & post these rules.
• Share seven random and/or weird book facts about yourself.
• Tag seven random people and include links to their blogs.
• Let each person know that they've been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

Both Jess and Julia tagged me for this one so I guess I have to do it now huh?

My 7 facts:

1. I buy books for souvenirs. Some people buy shot glasses or teaspoons....I buy books.
2. My mothers favorite movie is The Music Man and we often watched it on Sundays. By the time I was 18 I had the desire to be Marian the Librarian.
   
3. I love books that are part of a series. (does anyone not know this?)
4. When a new book comes out in one of the series' I read, I have to read all of the preceding books before I can read the new one. (This is okay when there are only 3 or 4 books....but a bit more difficult with a series' like the J.D. Robb 'In Death' books which has a count of somewhere in the 30's)
5. I remember getting The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis and The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien for my 8th birthday. (I don't remember reading either series at that time and have never picked up Tolkien as an adult.....but it is on the list.)
6. I fell in love with the Anne Of Green Gables series when I was 11 and I have been in love with Gilbert Blythe ever since. (I would even take him over Jacob Black......but maybe not the BDB boys)
7. I prefer my collections to be in paperback but I am too impatient to wait for the new books. So I buy in hardcover to read the first time. Then when the paperback comes out I trade the hardcover on Paperbackswap or Bookmooch.

My Seven Are:
Kandice
Boo
Kate
Tiana
Tallie
Cyn
Tara

I think that is all for the tags......Did I forget any?

At least I taste good with Gravey......

You Are The Stuffing

You're complicated and complex, yet all your pieces fit together. People miss you if you're gone - but they're not sure why.

What Part of Thanksgiving Are You?

Yeah....I am not sure why.....but there you have it....

A girls weekend

As you know, it started Friday night with the girls here in DC and continued with an early train ride to NYC with Tink.
Friday night was a blast. The TM's here are great to just hang out with and there was a lot to discuss after we saw the movie Friday. This meant we were up laughing until almost 3 am......making 4 am seem like an indecent hour to get up for a 5 am train. Ugh! But with some reminder texts from Tink, I was able to get up an out with only an hour of sleep under my belt. The sunrise on the train was beautiful. I even woke up Tink to take a picture. Lol! Poor girl.

Upon arrival we headed over to the pier and jumped in line for a 2 hour tour of the harbor. Yes I know this is rather touristy, but I wanted a chance to see as much of the city as possible. Who knows how long I will have that chance. Right? ;) It was great to see all of the interesting places. The statue of Liberty and Ellis Island are still quite a sight to behold. (Granted it would have been a smart thing to remember that I get seasick before the boat hit the rough waters....but since I didn't yak I figure I handled things just fine. Three cheers for Coke products.)

After the harbor tour we met up with the NY TM's to catch another shot at THE flick. My opinion hasn't changed so I'll just say that I will probably own this movie. Actually, I am almost positive that this movie will one day grace my collection......But I really hope they do a better job on New Moon. It is better as a companion to the movie instead of a story all on it's own. And that is all I am going to say on that topic.

After the movie we spent a couple of hours at lunch and just shooting the breeze with the NY ladies. It is so fun just to get together and chat. Kara then walked us over to Rockefeller Center to take a look at the unlit tree. I hope to see it lit up sometime next month but I am not sure that it will be a possibility. it is crazy how busy my schedule tends to stay. throw in a 10 day trip to Utah and I have no time to do anything. Lol!

We rounded the evening off by walking down 5th Avenue to see the store windows. Some are already decorated for Christmas (though Macy's didn't officially unveil theirs until yesterday.) A quick trip to Borders to pick up my souvenir books to commemorate this trip and we were on the train headed for home.

All in all, it was a fun trip that was followed by lots of sleep. Apparently I am to old to survive on 3 hours of "catch as you can" sleep. oh well you are only young once, right? Lol!

This weekend starts early with a movie on Wednesday with my friend Kate. We are headed to see Four Christmas' with Reese Witherspoon and Vince Vaughn. I look forward to it, it only to get a look at my future. I can just see me trying to figure out how to handle the holidays with 4 sets of in-laws. Lol!

Well there's my travelogue....it was even written on something other then my Blackberry.
Feel Very Special.

Now I have got to get back to work. *sigh*

The morning train

Well I saw the movie. My girls night was a blast. There was a lot of talking. Even more laughing. I didn't crash until somewhere between 230 and 300 am.

Now here it is just after 500 and I am on the train to NYC. Hopefully I can catch a bit more sleep during the next 3 hours. The hour or so of sleep at the hotel just isn't cutting it lol! But not to worry. I have my good friend cherry coke as my wingman. :)

As for my thoughts on the movie. Well.......I wouldn't call it the movie of the year.

I can catalogue many of its faults. But I think I liked it anyway. So there's that. :) we'll see what I say after my afternoon showing with the NY TM's. Maybe the 3rd time will clear up a few lingering issues. :)
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

Twilight Eve.....

It's the night before Twilight.........do you know where the girls in your life are? Lol!

All the my TMs here are counting down the hours to Twilight. Most are hitting a midnight showing somewhere in there area.

Not I! Granted the multiple viewings over the next week should make up for that fact. Ha ha ha!

I must say I am looking forward to being with the girls here tomorrow and then agin with a whole new set of girls in NY.

Here's hopin' it doesn't blow. :)
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

BDSM anyone? I know someone.........

From our car conversation:

Me: You would tie me up?

Noted, you like bondage. Glad we're not dating.

You: Wait, wait, wait!!! That is not what I meant.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

Music.....

Anyone who has ever listened to my iPod on random knows that I have an eclectic taste in music. I can go from musicals to country to pop to classical to rap to 80's rock to hard rock and honestly say "oooh, I love this song." Lol! I know I am not alone in this as I have found it is common of people of my generation.

Today on the metro I was again reminded how powerful music can be. I enjoyed my commute as I sat listening to the hits roll by. Then a song came on that I rarely listen to. It is one of the movie soundtrack suites. You know the kind. There are no words, just the music that had played as a backdrop to the powerful momoents in the movie.

I listened to it all the way through. Then I listened to it again and again. It has been awhile since I have been to a concert so I had forgotten how it feels to find the music of the orchestra swelling in your chest. To feel as if the piano is sweeping through your soul.

I think todays playlist shall be songs that have no words. Songs full of powerful emotions that speak to the soul.

Any suggestions?
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

Public transportation

I am a big fan of public transportation. For the past 4 years I have gotten around on the DC metro system (sometimes catching rides with friends to things that are far away). It is pretty fabulous. I love using metro for many reasons.

I do NOT love when, at the end of a long and tiring day, I get on the bus and it smells of dirty butt.

A my momma would say, butt stink is not pleasant!!
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

Frustration in a pretty package.

I know this comes as no surprise to most of you, I'm a girl who has become addicted to the virtual world. Lol!

Over the past few years my blog roll has broke the 200 mark. There are 4 different email accounts that I check daily. Then there are things like myspace (weekly), facebook (daily), at least 2 book forums that I am a member of (daily), my blog and my family wiki (checked as needed). I'm constantly on IM to keep connected to my world at large.

Lately I have been mostly cut off from this world and I am slowing losing my mind. Even with my berry access, my commute isn't long enough for me to check all the things I usually do. My bloglines has over 2000 unread blogs. My email accounts (other then the work address) have hundreds of unread emails. Not to mention the other sites I usually check. Ugh! I don't even know where to start my virtual housecleaning. Which compounds my frustration. There are so many things I have to catch up on. Argh!

Though in reality, it's not as if I have the time right now. Ha ha ha. The only reason you get this blog is because oi have an awesome boss who let me come in over an hour late today. Yay for sleeping. Here's hoping the next blog won't be written from a cab at midnight tonight.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

Another cab ride...

Another night where I was in the office till midnight.

I'm not trying to ignore people. I just don't have time.

I've been trying to call my dad for 2 days now to wish him a happy birthday. But I figure he doesn't want that call this late. Lol!
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

Caught a cab....

It's after midnight and a very nice cabbie is spending the next hour driving me home from the office.

We are finally ready for tomorrow. (Did you catch that John and Subodh? Tomorrow.)

I'm exhausted and frustrated. My book was finally delivered from Amazon today. I've been waiting a week. And now I'm too tired to even read it. Oh well! Once I get through tomorrow maybe I will be able to think. Though I probably won't find my brain until this week is over. :s
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

Random thoughts........

**As my Daddy says:
Vote Today. Vote Often.
(Or stop complaining)

**Some day I am going to grow out of the ugly duckling phase and be able to walk without embarassing myself. Until then I will continue to feel like a 12 year old girl in a rush as I fall down at random moments in front of people.

**Sorry John and Subodh. I'm not going to share work info in this post. But I will say the tension levels are still high at the office. :)

**I've reaffirmed my decision to never get drunk. My cherry coke hangovers are enough to deter me from wanting a real one. One girls night out and getting up the next day is painful. (But totally worth it! Thanks Tink and Tara.)

And that is all for now. I know I haven't written for over a week but between work and friends in town I just haven't had time. I'll try to get something worthwhile posted soon.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

Practice

My roots were showing again today.
As I stood for the bus this evening I got the chance to hear the drumline from one of the local schools practice their marching. There was color gaurd and a handful of marchers without intruments.

They drumline sounds pretty great but again I was reminded of the difference in my upbringing. Back home there is a large pretty football field for the marching band etc to practice on. Here they practice by marching on the streets.

Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

What am I to do!

By order of my boss, I am to leave at a reasonable hour. So here it is 5:45pm and I am waiting for my bus. What will I do with my time tonight. *gasp*
I think I will make popcorn, watch Ironman which just came in from BlockBuster and unpack from last weekend. :)

Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

Who was I?

Rae's Past Lives:

589 BC: Native American

496 AD: A trophy wife

1754 AD: A nun

'What were you in your past lives?' at QuizGalaxy.com

I am speechless? A nun?

Focused.....

I had intended to write about Sunday, which was a lot of fun (except for the horrendous travel snafu) but yesterday got away from me. All of a sudden it was after 10 and I was still trying to get things done for work.

The emails started this morning bright and early. I got so focused on what was coming in on my blackberry that I walked into a tree branch this morning. Lol!
It's gonna be a good one. Ha ha ha!
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

The end of the day....

What a day it has been. After the show and the back stage tour by the wonderful Jane, I went to dinner with Kara and and her husband Craig. Feeling the effects of very little sleep, lots of walking, and the insecurity of being in a new place, I skipped Central Park and the Met for a chance to go home with Kara for the night instead.

Now it's late and I'm tucked away in the guest bedroom here at Kara's. We have had tea and cocoa, browsed the lastest twillight paraphenalia (a companion to the movie with some great stills in it), and watched a Disney Channel muppet version of The Wizard of Oz, that, honestly might cause nightmares. Lol!

Oh well I'm tired. It has been a long day and I need sleep. Talk at you tomorrow. :)
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

The sites....

The train ride to New York was beautiful. The leaves are starting to turn and it was just gorgeous.

Once I got to the city, I met up with Jess, her sister Ci Ci, and her friend Sara. We walked through Orchard dtreet and had guys yell at us to but things and then hit the Tenement Museum. They are restoring one of the tenements to what it looked like in the 19th century. So they took us through it and explained life in those times. It was interesting to learn about and I now have 2 books to help me learn more. :)

From there we took the subway (with a lot of handholding from the local Ci Ci) and ended up on Broadway, waiting for our show to start. We grabbed hot dogs from a roach coach and got in line.
(Personal note: the food at the Roach Coaches on the National Mall are better. )

Anyway, it is now intermission, and while I am enjoying the show I think I have blushed more today then I have in a long time. :)
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

the morning trial

I slept about 2 hours last night after crashing my computer. Talk about stress. I still don't know what I have done. I'll have to talk to IT on Monday.

I was up and ready at 4:45 am but my cab didn't show. I stared to get worried when I called the cab company and was given the number of a different company. 11 calls and an hour and a half later I am finally on my train.

Note to my readers: Diamond cab and Checker cab both have crappy people on their phones. Diamond cab will only take your fare if you are in NW DC. But you won't find that out until you call them to ask where you cab is only to be told that "there are no cabs in your area".

Bad news: I missed my train. Good news: Unlike the airlines, there isn't a fee to change your ticket.

But I am not complaining. I am now on a train headed for New York. Where I will stay until Sunday evening. I'll get a chance to see a broadway show (Ave Q this time) and tour that theater (Kara is the coolest TM EVAH!) I am also going to see The Met and have Sunday brunch with the NY TM's. Who knows what else I will have time for. Lol!

Who cares! I'm on my way. ;)
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

But I slept in....

So I have today off but the day is still jam packed full of things to do. Most important of which is my morning breakfast and shopping trip for Kate's Birthday.

(HAPPY BIRTHDAY KATE!!)

Some how I got the idea stuck in my head that because I slept in a whole hour it was late enough to call my family in UT as I walked to the metro. So I rang my fabulous sister in law to talk. It was nothing important but as the phone continued to ring it dawned on me to look at the time.

Yes, my good friends, I was calling UT at 8:30 am EST.

Do I know that means it was only 6:30 am MST? Yes, and usually I pay closer attention to that. I felt so stupid. Who doesn't worry when they get a call at the crack of dawn from family?

Of course, my fabulous family called me right back and my wonderful sister in law Cyn proceded to talk to me for another 10 or 15 minutes. Poor woman. Lol!

I have got to get it worked back into my head that just because I am awake the rest of the world might not be. Lol! Maybe I should move to Alaska, then it wouldn't matter who I called when I got up. Lol!
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

Is today over yet?

I can't even begin to describe my day....or even my weekend......

To say it has been rough is somewhat of an understatement. I can't talk about it. I don't think life will get much easier in the next few months.

November 21st is coming!

Twilight HD Exclusive Trailer


Oh Dear.....

Tiana, I am posting this for you cuz I don't know if you will see it anywhere else. :)

Can any one guess what I will be doing on the 21st? Lol!

BTT #18

I’ve seen this series of questions floating around the ‘net the last few days, and thought it looked like a good one for us!

What was the last book you bought?
The WARDen's Black Dagger Brotherhood Insider's Guide

Name a book you have read MORE than once.
Too many to count......I love to re-read some of my favorites. Recently, I worked my way through Diana Gabaldon's Outlander series...

Has a book ever fundamentally changed the way you see life? If yes, what was it?
Well there is always the Scriptures....I would say they fundamentally change my life. But that sounds like a cheesy answer. I also really loved The Last Lecture by Randy Pausch, there were some very important reminders in that book that I try to implement in my life.

How do you choose a book?
(eg. by cover design and summary, recommendations or reviews)
It depends on my mood....I might just pick up something that sounds interesting on the back cover. Others I get by referrals from friends. I don't usually go by cover design....some of my favorite books have lame covers. And I steer clear of the reviews.....I prefer to make my own assessment.

Do you prefer Fiction or Non-Fiction?
All of the above.

What’s more important in a novel - beautiful writing or a gripping plot?
I like there to be plot. I can put up with some crappy writing if the plot has been engaging.

Most loved/memorable character (character/book)
Anne Shirley from the Anne of Green Gable Series, hands down! She has been my favorite character since I was 12.

Which book or books can be found on your nightstand at the moment?
Currently,
I Am America (And So Can You) by Stephen Colbert (he makes me laugh)
and
The Outlandish Companion by Diana Gabaldon (it has so much fascinating information)

What was the last book you’ve read, and when was it?
Today I continued reading The WARDen's Black Dagger Brotherhood Insider's Guide (I am on page 417......I will finish tonight on the metro ride home. wahoo!!)

Last book I finished was A Stroke of Midnight by Laurall K. Hamilton which I finished on Monday.

Have you ever given up on a book half way in?
Not that I can think of. I usually try to force myself to finish them. Though I know there are those that got interrupted and I haven't gotten back to them yet. And I emphasize the word YET!

Its an addiction

Over 3 years ago I was introduced to a little place called Crisp and Juicy. I'm told it is Peruvian chicken. All I know is I LOVE it. So I a. Eating it today. Steph wish you were here to join Jess and I. :)
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

I get married first.

Another first for me.....

While running to catch the metro I was approached by a decent looking guy asking to give me his number. Being me I asked him why. He was honest and told me he wanted the "get with a white woman cuz he never had before." It wasn't the reason that shocked me so much as him admitting it aloud. Lol!

In my clumsy way I told him thanks but no thanks; I wasn't into it. Being my neighborhood he immediately pulled the race card. Obviously I wasn't into mixed race. Ugh! Save me from stupidity!

So I said the one thing I knew would get him to back off.

"That isn't it at all, man. You see I get married first."

He stopped following me after that! LOL!

Now I am off to enjoy the final session of conference.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

18 forever.......

I'm on the bus again tonight. I spent a few hours with Chel and her family. (I'll post pictures later)

Tonight I am reminded why I live where I do. I love living in the city. I love riding the metro and the bus. Granted, I don't like to be surrounded by too many people. But for the most part I like to sit and listen to those around me. Whether it is on the metro or the National Mall or some place else. I love to be apart of it all without haveing to be involved. Does that make sense?

There is a breeze on my face from the open window and people are happy. What could be nicer. :)
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

Thoughts during todays morning seesion..

As I listened to Elder Oaks talk today about the importance of attending the Sacrament meeting I was reminded of an experience that happened months ago.

After the death of Boo’s mother a group of us gathered in Kentucky to help in any way we could. There wasn’t much we could do but be there and so we went. Come Sunday we headed off to the local church for a sacrament service. Unfortunately, when we arrived we learned that the times had changed and we had missed the meeting. This was not good news and Boo was obviously upset. Lucky for us we were found by two brethren who upon learning why we were in town and our current dilemma they went and received permission to give us the sacrament. After the brethren finished and left us, Steph bore her testimony and one by one we each followed. I don’t remember what was said that morning. But I do remember the feeling of the Spirit as the 5 of us sat in the high council room of that chapel in Louisville Kentucky.

That experience is a constant reminder of a 3 things……….
1. The Spirit was with us that day. As we gathered to partake of the holy ordinance of the sacrament we were blessed with the calming influence of the Spirit

“For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” Matthew 18:20

2. God loves His children.
We were in desperate need of that calming influence. There is nothing more difficult then losing a family member. Boo needed the peace and love that can come from the Spirit. So the Lord provided a way for us to participate in a spiritual experience in the midst of a Boo’s pain.

3. I don’t know how to explain the connection for the third thing. But I am reminded of the blessing of Relief Society.
Boo and Steph came into my world by way of attending a singles ward together. Many a Sunday were spent together on the second row back on the right. The bonds have been forged over the past 3 and a half. That experience reminds me that I am blessed to find amazing women among the members of my church.

It's up to you guys....

Thanks Amy!

Just for Tiana!

I am trying to catch up on my 2,000 unread blogs but it is not working. Work keeps interfering today. Maybe in a couple of weeks when I am allowed I can express a bit of the frustration that I am experiencing due to work. But for now you get things like this. :)

My big sister called me last night to tell me she had tagged me. So I am supporting her today!

8 T.V. Shows I love to watch:
I don't have Television anymore and haven’t for months now. Thanks to Brother Richard who kept me up on the season Finale’s. Now I have Hulu….and well I am addicted. *sigh*

1. Bones
2. House
3. Numbers
4. American Idol
5. Law and Order (all of them I love the re-runs on TBS or is it TNT? I never remember but I used to watch them all the time. Lol!)
6. Friends
7. Gilmore Girls
8. Firefly

8 things that happened yesterday:

1. Had to get out of bed! Ugh!
2. Finished book 131 for the year
3. Started the Merry Gentry Series
4. Work….can this count for the rest of them? It really should
5. Talked to my big sister on the phone
6. Thought about cleaning my room….that is seriously HUGE!
7. Got Yahoo IM downloaded to my Blackberry so I can now chat on the way to and from work! Wahoo.
8. Talked to my best friend Meg ( I think this happens every day)
   

8 favorite places to eat

1. Cheesecake Factory
2. Coastal Flats (Seafood)
3. Crisp and Juicy (Peruvian Chicken…..YUMMY!)
4. What is the name of the Mediterranean place in DC…the one where we sit on the floor and there is a belly dancer….I can never remember the name but I try to take everyone there. LOVE IT!
5. Captain Pell’s…Boo when are you coming back?
6. Okay…I’ll come clean…..every once in a while I crave one of the sausages from the Roach coaches on the National Mall…..there is just something about eating them. *sigh*
7. There is a Sushi Joint in Tyson’s corner….Steph what is the name of it…it is really good
8. “That Pancake place I would go to with my sister Rachel when I visited her on the weekends in DC...what was the name of that place?" - T it is called the Original Pancake House. It definitely deserves to be mentioned here. I go there with Kate every now and then and is the only place that I will eat pancakes.

8 things I am looking forward to:

1. Steph and Boo coming to visit the end of Oct…..We are going to see the Secret life of Bees!!!!
2. The End of the Work Stress!
3. The Twilight Movie with the TM’s at the end of November
4. Christmas with the Fam
5. Sleep
6. The New J.R. Ward book that comes out next week and the LKH book that I will get at the end of the month. :)
7. General Conference
8. A clean bedroom

8 things on my wish list:

1. Books…I always wish for more books…..for authors to write more in their series’; for books that are already out but I haven’t had a chance to read; for books that I haven’t even heard of yet but could interest me……
2. Time to read the above mentioned books. Lol!
3. To have Tiana or my other sibs to visit VA
4. A good vacation
5. To go back to school
6. A pedicure
7. To get back on a regular exercise cycle
8. And since I am wishing….I really need to update the wardrobe

Now 8 people that I tag:

1. Boo
2. Steph
3. Meg
4. Amber (A.K.A. Dancing Queen)
5. Kathy
6. AmyO
7. Julia (from the JD Robb group)
8. E.L.E.

BTT #17

What, in your opinion, is the best book that you haven’t liked? Mind you, I don’t mean your most-hated book–oh, no. I mean the most accomplished, skilled, well-written, impressive book that you just simply didn’t like.

Like, for movies–I can acknowledge that Citizen Kane is a tour de force and is all sorts of wonderful, cinematically speaking, but . . . I just don’t like it. I find it impressive and quite an accomplishment, but it’s not my cup of tea.

So . . . what book (or books) is your Citizen Kane?

I am responding to this because I don't even have to think about it. I know the answer.

The Phillip Pullman Dark Material's Trilogy. Now don't get me wrong, I am not one of those that is here to complain about Mr Pullman's religious preferences. Though, I can see why some of the Christian Right got a bit scared after reading this book. Mr. Pullman is an amazing writer. If I had been more in tune with the subject matter, I might have loved these books.

But...I hit a wall in the middle of book to as I tried to wrap my head around the universe that he had created so well. It went against all of my beliefs and I found myself having to push myself to finish.

Why did I push myself?

Because I wanted to know what happened. Even with my head firmly slammed against the wall I wanted to know how it ended.

So I pushed through.....and then I HATED the ending. HATED IT! Among other things it was not happy. If I wanted depressing I would read the news. So, while Mr. Pullmans talents are quite impressive, he isn't...how did they put it.......my cup of tea.

What an odd feeling.....

Today the clip I am using keeps pulling my hair.

So I took it out.

I know....you are telling me this isn't a big deal. But in the last 4 months I have only worn my hair down once. Yup that is right.....1 time! (And that time....I totally blame my best friend Meg, she is a bad influence on me. I ended up wearing makeup that day too. *gasp*)

It is odd to have my hair hanging down my back. It is humid today so it is curling just slightly. It just barely reaches my shoulder blades.
It keeps falling in my face...which means it is going to have to go back up shortly.......but I thought this day should be marked some how. Other then by the 3 people who have stopped in the door of my office with a look of slight shock on their face. Lol!
Kathy Just for you.....
(I am no Tara so you are stuck with these crappy photos....sorry)

They almost match my real eye color...sort of

What's your inner eye colour?

Blue eyes You're a relaxed, laid-back chick with a sweet, friendly nature. Your kindness puts people at ease and also wins you many friends, and you love to be surrounded by those who love you. You've also got a strong romantic streak, and when you fall in love, you fall deep. However, sometimes when the going gets tough, you can become a bit reclusive and try to stay out of important matters – generally not a good idea! You tend to rely on others a lot, and your mood hits rock bottom when they disappoint you. Not surprisingly though, when someone is relying on you, you go to all lengths to live up to their expectations, and because of that, you make a wonderful friend.

Fun quizzes, surveys & blog quizzes by

My Girls....

Tonight was a night that seemed to be all about my girls. I met up with Kate and we saw the new movie The Women. It made me laugh a lot. But it also made me think of the women I n my life. We followed the movie with Womens Conference. Every fall the women of our church gather to hear messgaes directed specifically to us as women. It speaks of our talents, our fears, and our purpose. Tonights meeting was amazing. I was again reminded of the possible connections that can be made with the women around me.

But most importantly tonight has made me very grateful for my girlfriends. I have some amazing friends.

I keep trying to write something to follow that sentence but it isn't working. I can't seem to find the words that could adequetely (sp?) express how grateful I am for these women.

So I guess I'll just say thanks and I love y'all. You mean more to me then words can say.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

Maybe Perry can help me.

This was in my new messages this morning:

"Rachel, right now, all around you, outside your door, down the street, and in every corner of your world, there's evidence of a conspiracy. All the elements are secretly marching to the beat of your drummer, while casually pretending to be detached and indifferent.

I love you,
    The Universe"

Which totally explains all the guys in my neighborhood who walk as if thay are drunk. I'll have to work on that drummer.
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile