I am not sure if you ever experience this but I often find a soundtrack for certain periods in my life. Anyway, I believe I have found mine for the trip. It is mostly because I only have a certain number of songs downloaded on my work computer but the works.
Today was our first day of actually training people. I loved it! It makes me want to be a teacher. Watch out Bar, I might be following in your footsteps. : )
The people here are extremely smart and eager to learn which makes my job easy. I will be happy when I leave here though. It is just an unnerving place to be. I have quite the story for my fellow readers but I will spare you for this evening as I am exhausted. I’ll write about it tomorrow, unless of course I'm once again moved to discuss the dictomy that is a third world country.
Monday, December 8, 2008
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
An Evening In India To Myself
Right now I am sitting outside on my balcony writing. I can hear the wild dogs in the distance barking as if they were silenced during the day. The temperature is a nice 75 degrees with little breeze and though the air is moist it is almost refreshing. Looking out I can see the lights from buildings but for the most part it is dark. There haze in the sky so the moon and stars are completely blocked from sight. I am almost use to the smell so it is no longer something that stands out when I walk outside.
I have to say, it is strange to be in a country where poverty and riches are right across the street from one another. It is also strange to be in a country where a war is going on and Americans seem to be the source of hate. Though there is heightened security at both the hotel and the office, I don’t feel safe. You never know who is against you and who is on your side.
The tone of the country is somber and you can feel that though Bangalore is far from Mumbai the people are affected. I wonder if those that live in tarp houses know what has happened in Mumbai. I am sure the only thing on there mind is where their next meal is coming from. I have to say, though our exposure is very limited, as again it is not safe to walk around the area, it is a life changing experience. I do hope I can come back during a safer time and really get to experience the culture and hopefully do something for those that have nothing (even if it is just buying them a pair of shoes).
This whole experience makes me very thankful for all that I have.
As I stated before, I am sitting outside and can hear all the sounds that are in the surrounding area and the dogs are getting very loud. It almost sounds like something bad is happening to them because the barking is becoming shrill. It breaks my heart (as you all know I am a huge dog lover). Now there is silence. Makes me wonder what just happened to those dogs.
What you have been told about cows being sacred is true. There are cows that just roam the streets. I feel strange staying in such a nice hotel when right outside there are people that haven’t eaten for days. Unfortunately now is not the time to be heroic and even if it was how do you go about doing that. Would you just show up with food and water? I wonder what the reaction would be. Would there be joy or would people resent the fact that you pity them?
I came on this trip for two reasons, one I wanted to go to India to see the Taj (which to my dismay will not be an option) and two to have a moving experience where I let the culture change me. I have been here for a day and luckily or unluckily, depending on how you want to look at it, I am getting the latter experience.
I should probably go to be though since it is 11:30 and my sleep schedule is all messed up. I know my last posted eluded to the fact that I would be writing tomorrow but I was having a moment and thought I would write down what I was experiencing at the present moment. Good night all.
I have to say, it is strange to be in a country where poverty and riches are right across the street from one another. It is also strange to be in a country where a war is going on and Americans seem to be the source of hate. Though there is heightened security at both the hotel and the office, I don’t feel safe. You never know who is against you and who is on your side.
The tone of the country is somber and you can feel that though Bangalore is far from Mumbai the people are affected. I wonder if those that live in tarp houses know what has happened in Mumbai. I am sure the only thing on there mind is where their next meal is coming from. I have to say, though our exposure is very limited, as again it is not safe to walk around the area, it is a life changing experience. I do hope I can come back during a safer time and really get to experience the culture and hopefully do something for those that have nothing (even if it is just buying them a pair of shoes).
This whole experience makes me very thankful for all that I have.
As I stated before, I am sitting outside and can hear all the sounds that are in the surrounding area and the dogs are getting very loud. It almost sounds like something bad is happening to them because the barking is becoming shrill. It breaks my heart (as you all know I am a huge dog lover). Now there is silence. Makes me wonder what just happened to those dogs.
What you have been told about cows being sacred is true. There are cows that just roam the streets. I feel strange staying in such a nice hotel when right outside there are people that haven’t eaten for days. Unfortunately now is not the time to be heroic and even if it was how do you go about doing that. Would you just show up with food and water? I wonder what the reaction would be. Would there be joy or would people resent the fact that you pity them?
I came on this trip for two reasons, one I wanted to go to India to see the Taj (which to my dismay will not be an option) and two to have a moving experience where I let the culture change me. I have been here for a day and luckily or unluckily, depending on how you want to look at it, I am getting the latter experience.
I should probably go to be though since it is 11:30 and my sleep schedule is all messed up. I know my last posted eluded to the fact that I would be writing tomorrow but I was having a moment and thought I would write down what I was experiencing at the present moment. Good night all.
Monday, December 1, 2008
First Day in India
Today I woke up at 2:00 AM thinking I was super late for work. I looked at my phone, which of course is set to US time, thought it was 4:00 AM, and was completely thrown off by this. We are 10 ½ hours ahead and 4 hours of sleep makes my brain a bit foggy. Needless to say, I woke up and wound up unable to fall back asleep.
I jumped on the phone with my parents, sat outside for a bit, watched TV, messed around online, and was able to talk to Sally. Since we had to cancel our travels around India due to the recent terror attacks we have a few extra days to fill with something else. We were going back and forth with plans (Rome, Barcelona, Bulgaria) and finally decided to go to Barcelona as it is the cheapest alternative and I get to spend an extra few days with Sally. YAY!
Anyway, around 6:00 AM I started to get ready for work. I ordered coffee (by the by the hotel treats us like queens), blasted my music, and started getting ready for my day. After showering, the natural thing to do is blow dry my hair, usually I set up my straightening iron before hand so it is nice and hot. Today I plugged it in and not only blew out my iron but also blew the electricity in my hotel room. It sucked, mostly because my iron was really expensive and I had already lost my hair dryer to Paris. Tear tear.
After getting power back, I continued to get ready for my day; of course, at this point, I was running a bit late. I avoided any other tragedies and was able to make it down stairs in time for our van to take us to the office. Now I really must set the scene for you; the hotel is literally a palace in the middle of a poor city.
It is quite the dichotomy. You literally walk/drive outside the compound (which is surrounded by gates) and you find yourself in an over crowded street (made of red clay) with men, women, and children of all classes walking the streets. Some have no shoes, some are carrying pots over their head, some children are in uniform on there way to school and others are wearing nothing but a cloth and playing in the dirt.
There are apartments across the street from shanty’s, there are cars on the street with three-wheeled open buggy’s. Wild dogs roam the streets and howl at night and I can’t forget to mention the very interesting smell that surrounds the entire place.
I will back track for a second and say that when we walked off the plane you are hit with hot air and a smell that you can’t quite put your finger on. It was like nothing I have ever smelt. I was warned it would smell, in fact on of my partners had played a practical joke on me by putting curry in my cube and told me he was just getting me ready for India. But the smell wasn’t that strong, it is more of a subtle smell that really can’t be described. Another interesting note was there were birds flying in the airport. Where there are birds, there is bird shit and let me tell you the whole airport was filled with it.
Ok back to describing Bangalore and my morning: There is a mist on the road as the clay gets kicked up into the air, which makes seeing a bit more difficult. It should be noted that India probably has the craziest drivers in the world. Since the country has a British influence they drive on the other side of the road, and of course all cars are manual. Anyway, there are not street lights. People use there horns as a form of communication when driving. Apparently, there aren’t many accidents, but wow, there were several times when we were driving into oncoming traffic and weaving in and out. Seatbelts are a MUST!
Anyway, I am off to bed and will update more tomorrow. xoxo
I jumped on the phone with my parents, sat outside for a bit, watched TV, messed around online, and was able to talk to Sally. Since we had to cancel our travels around India due to the recent terror attacks we have a few extra days to fill with something else. We were going back and forth with plans (Rome, Barcelona, Bulgaria) and finally decided to go to Barcelona as it is the cheapest alternative and I get to spend an extra few days with Sally. YAY!
Anyway, around 6:00 AM I started to get ready for work. I ordered coffee (by the by the hotel treats us like queens), blasted my music, and started getting ready for my day. After showering, the natural thing to do is blow dry my hair, usually I set up my straightening iron before hand so it is nice and hot. Today I plugged it in and not only blew out my iron but also blew the electricity in my hotel room. It sucked, mostly because my iron was really expensive and I had already lost my hair dryer to Paris. Tear tear.
After getting power back, I continued to get ready for my day; of course, at this point, I was running a bit late. I avoided any other tragedies and was able to make it down stairs in time for our van to take us to the office. Now I really must set the scene for you; the hotel is literally a palace in the middle of a poor city.
It is quite the dichotomy. You literally walk/drive outside the compound (which is surrounded by gates) and you find yourself in an over crowded street (made of red clay) with men, women, and children of all classes walking the streets. Some have no shoes, some are carrying pots over their head, some children are in uniform on there way to school and others are wearing nothing but a cloth and playing in the dirt.
There are apartments across the street from shanty’s, there are cars on the street with three-wheeled open buggy’s. Wild dogs roam the streets and howl at night and I can’t forget to mention the very interesting smell that surrounds the entire place.
I will back track for a second and say that when we walked off the plane you are hit with hot air and a smell that you can’t quite put your finger on. It was like nothing I have ever smelt. I was warned it would smell, in fact on of my partners had played a practical joke on me by putting curry in my cube and told me he was just getting me ready for India. But the smell wasn’t that strong, it is more of a subtle smell that really can’t be described. Another interesting note was there were birds flying in the airport. Where there are birds, there is bird shit and let me tell you the whole airport was filled with it.
Ok back to describing Bangalore and my morning: There is a mist on the road as the clay gets kicked up into the air, which makes seeing a bit more difficult. It should be noted that India probably has the craziest drivers in the world. Since the country has a British influence they drive on the other side of the road, and of course all cars are manual. Anyway, there are not street lights. People use there horns as a form of communication when driving. Apparently, there aren’t many accidents, but wow, there were several times when we were driving into oncoming traffic and weaving in and out. Seatbelts are a MUST!
Anyway, I am off to bed and will update more tomorrow. xoxo
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Post from the Plane
Currently, I’m flying first class to India. It should be noted that I slept for half of the flight. I could get use to my own personal bed/chair that massages. First class is quite nice. Anyway after much debate last night, the girls and I decided that we would fine and to go ahead with our travels to India. That being said we canceled our trips to New Delhi and to the Taj. The climate in India is just not inviting at this time. This is a total disappointment as I won’t get to see India at all but I guess there is always next time.
I am not sure where I left off in my travels but I recall I didn’t get far, so I shall start at the beginning. We arrive in Paris at 7 AM. None of us really sleep on the plane so you can imagine how chipper we were. We get a taxi and of course he speaks no English. Somehow we manage to have to drop us off at the correct hotel. We couldn’t check in until 12 so we decide to wonder around the area. We were staying literally 2 mins from the Eiffel tower (which was very cool).
So I have been trying to learn French for the past month because I know they hate Americans and despise the fact that we make no effort to speak their language. I have also always wanted to learn. Needless to say I knew enough to get us all by as Liz and Ana don’t speak a lick of French. Anyway we were hungry so we went to a café around the area.
We walk in, I ask in French if they speak English, they give me such a dirty look and say no. So we decide to go to another place right across the street. We hop in there (keep in mind it is cold out) and get a seat, this is an improvement. I again ask the waitress if she speaks in English and she give me the nastiest look but says a little. Anyway we sat there for 10 mins and she never came by to ask us what we would like (there was hardly anyone in the place so it wasn’t like she was busy). Anyway, we left once she had dropped a coffee cup on another patron.
Thank God we were in an area with a lot of cafes because third time was a charm. We finally went to a place that didn’t mind serving us. We all got a café (coffee), croissant, and omelet. It was quite nice. We then strolled over to the Eiffel Tower and spent a lot of time taking pictures.
We had killed enough time before the check in and headed back to the hotel. Since we only slept for 2 hours on the plane and France is 6 hours ahead we needed to stay active other wise we would not adjust to the time change. To aid in project keep us awake, we decided we would go to Versailles and see the castle.
Versailles is about 30 minutes away by train so once we checked in and freshened up, we were off to the train station. It should be noted that the train stations here are far cleaner then those in New York, that and they are a much smoother ride too.
We get to the ticket counter and ask how to get to were we want to go. She tells us to go to plateform A and get on the C train. We as soon as we get to the platform a train rolls by that said GOTA C. So I was like lets go ladies, GOTA C, GOTA C is coming. So we jumped on the train. After 3 stops we realize we are on the train and must retrace our steps to get on the right train. Apparently I’m not so good with the trains.
Despite the train debacle, we made it Versailles. Apparently it is some huge castle with golden gates. We didn’t take a tour so I don’t really know the history behind it. We did get the headsets that talk about what is or was in each room but the sun was setting and I wanted to get to the gardens.
Moving on, that night instead of going out to eat Ana suggested we just grab something quick and eat on the train back to Paris. Liz had never had McDonalds from a different country and was curious. I told her to try it as it tastes different. Needless to say, her and Ana got McDonald’s. I jumped into another café and got a baguette with mozzarella and tomato. MY FAVORITE!
Right by our hotel there was a supermarket so on our way back to popped in there to get snacks and bottles of wine. The wine there is so cheap so we got three bottles. We got back to the room around 8 or so and were so exhausted. We drank some wine, messed around on the computer and proceeded to pass out. Ana woke us up in the morning yelling about how it was late in the afternoon (we had slept till noon).
Hate to run mid story but I have to try and go to sleep. It’s like 4 AM here in India and I woke up at 2:30 AM because I couldn't sleep and I have to work tomorrow. So I will be back to update more but we are safe and sound. xoxo
I am not sure where I left off in my travels but I recall I didn’t get far, so I shall start at the beginning. We arrive in Paris at 7 AM. None of us really sleep on the plane so you can imagine how chipper we were. We get a taxi and of course he speaks no English. Somehow we manage to have to drop us off at the correct hotel. We couldn’t check in until 12 so we decide to wonder around the area. We were staying literally 2 mins from the Eiffel tower (which was very cool).
So I have been trying to learn French for the past month because I know they hate Americans and despise the fact that we make no effort to speak their language. I have also always wanted to learn. Needless to say I knew enough to get us all by as Liz and Ana don’t speak a lick of French. Anyway we were hungry so we went to a café around the area.
We walk in, I ask in French if they speak English, they give me such a dirty look and say no. So we decide to go to another place right across the street. We hop in there (keep in mind it is cold out) and get a seat, this is an improvement. I again ask the waitress if she speaks in English and she give me the nastiest look but says a little. Anyway we sat there for 10 mins and she never came by to ask us what we would like (there was hardly anyone in the place so it wasn’t like she was busy). Anyway, we left once she had dropped a coffee cup on another patron.
Thank God we were in an area with a lot of cafes because third time was a charm. We finally went to a place that didn’t mind serving us. We all got a café (coffee), croissant, and omelet. It was quite nice. We then strolled over to the Eiffel Tower and spent a lot of time taking pictures.
We had killed enough time before the check in and headed back to the hotel. Since we only slept for 2 hours on the plane and France is 6 hours ahead we needed to stay active other wise we would not adjust to the time change. To aid in project keep us awake, we decided we would go to Versailles and see the castle.
Versailles is about 30 minutes away by train so once we checked in and freshened up, we were off to the train station. It should be noted that the train stations here are far cleaner then those in New York, that and they are a much smoother ride too.
We get to the ticket counter and ask how to get to were we want to go. She tells us to go to plateform A and get on the C train. We as soon as we get to the platform a train rolls by that said GOTA C. So I was like lets go ladies, GOTA C, GOTA C is coming. So we jumped on the train. After 3 stops we realize we are on the train and must retrace our steps to get on the right train. Apparently I’m not so good with the trains.
Despite the train debacle, we made it Versailles. Apparently it is some huge castle with golden gates. We didn’t take a tour so I don’t really know the history behind it. We did get the headsets that talk about what is or was in each room but the sun was setting and I wanted to get to the gardens.
Moving on, that night instead of going out to eat Ana suggested we just grab something quick and eat on the train back to Paris. Liz had never had McDonalds from a different country and was curious. I told her to try it as it tastes different. Needless to say, her and Ana got McDonald’s. I jumped into another café and got a baguette with mozzarella and tomato. MY FAVORITE!
Right by our hotel there was a supermarket so on our way back to popped in there to get snacks and bottles of wine. The wine there is so cheap so we got three bottles. We got back to the room around 8 or so and were so exhausted. We drank some wine, messed around on the computer and proceeded to pass out. Ana woke us up in the morning yelling about how it was late in the afternoon (we had slept till noon).
Hate to run mid story but I have to try and go to sleep. It’s like 4 AM here in India and I woke up at 2:30 AM because I couldn't sleep and I have to work tomorrow. So I will be back to update more but we are safe and sound. xoxo
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Attacks on Mumbai India
I have a bit of time before we head out for another big day in Paris but I wanted to take a second and discuss the Mumbai terrorist attacks. As you all know we are heading over to India on Saturday.
Obviously we hadn't been watching TV since we were touring all day, but when we got back to the hotel my dad told me to turn on the News and look for something about India. We turned on CNN and haven’t really shut if off since (except to sleep).
I am actually wondering if it is the news about India is being posted all over the airways back in the States. Here it is on 24/7. Anyway, we are keeping on eye on the situation as we won't be going over there if we are in danger. Just to give you a geography lesson of India, Mumbai is in the middle of Bangalore and Agra (we are going to both these places).
Obviously we hadn't been watching TV since we were touring all day, but when we got back to the hotel my dad told me to turn on the News and look for something about India. We turned on CNN and haven’t really shut if off since (except to sleep).
I am actually wondering if it is the news about India is being posted all over the airways back in the States. Here it is on 24/7. Anyway, we are keeping on eye on the situation as we won't be going over there if we are in danger. Just to give you a geography lesson of India, Mumbai is in the middle of Bangalore and Agra (we are going to both these places).
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Day 1 of our Trip
Today started the travel extravaganza. The morning came early as I hadn’t packed a thing for the trip but I managed to get everything in order and got out the door with enough time to spare.
Let me begin by saying that Air France is the way to fly, though we took coach to Paris it almost felt like first class. They came around with a travel pack consisting of an eye mask, ear plugs, and a wet towel. The seats were a good size and each one had a personal TV.
I tried to sleep on the flight but only managed to gain 2 hours of shut eye. Luckily there were good movies to choose from (Mama Mia). I wound up singing most of the trip. We arrived in Paris around 6:45 AM. It was a long day especially since none of us really slept on the plane.
That being said I am exhausted and can’t really give this my full editorial commentary. Therefore I am going to get some shut eye, it’s 10:00 pm here. But worry not dear friends, I will tell you all about our trip to Versailles and our random adventures around Paris on Day 1.
Let me begin by saying that Air France is the way to fly, though we took coach to Paris it almost felt like first class. They came around with a travel pack consisting of an eye mask, ear plugs, and a wet towel. The seats were a good size and each one had a personal TV.
I tried to sleep on the flight but only managed to gain 2 hours of shut eye. Luckily there were good movies to choose from (Mama Mia). I wound up singing most of the trip. We arrived in Paris around 6:45 AM. It was a long day especially since none of us really slept on the plane.
That being said I am exhausted and can’t really give this my full editorial commentary. Therefore I am going to get some shut eye, it’s 10:00 pm here. But worry not dear friends, I will tell you all about our trip to Versailles and our random adventures around Paris on Day 1.
Monday, November 24, 2008
SO EXCITED!
I leave for my crazy adventures tomorrow. WAHOO! Very excited about it all. More to come in the near future!
Monday, October 6, 2008
Pumpkins, Hayrides, Corn Mazes Oh My!
Today was fantastic; though the weatherman promised a nice clear day, it wound up a bit cloudy but it certainly didn’t rain on our parade. I left my apartment around 9:00am and picked up my zip car. I couldn’t wait to hit the open road. There is just something about driving that makes me happy. I’m lucky enough to be able to live in the city and afford a car at my disposal whenever I feel the urge to just drive.
Anyway, I got the car, packed it up with items I needed to return at Wal-mart and headed to Connecticut to visit with my cousins. When I got to Kitty’s, Dan was making fried egg sandwiches. They were delicious and a perfect way to start the day. Everyone sat at the kitchen table and ate, (it was sooo nice to have a family meal) and then Dan, Kit, Liam, Kealy and I were off to the high school to play some soccer. Shaun had something for school to do so he wasn’t in attendance the entire day. It bummed me out a bit but I know we’ll get a chance to hang now that I live so close.
While the kids and Dan messed around on the field, I played around with my camera. The pics can be viewed to the right. Once I put the camera down I was out on the field with the kids. We had a blast. I may or may not have lightly sprained my ankle while kicking the ball around but I didn’t let Kealy, the high school soccer star, score on me so I was doing something right.
After getting sweaty and disgusting, (which took effort because it was in the 50’s today) we dropped Dan off and met up with Maureen, Katie, and Jackie. We were off to the corn farm to pick pumpkins and part take in all that autumn encompasses up North. Being from South Florida, we don’t often have corn fields to run around in or pumpkin patches to get our pumpkins from, so this was a huge treat for me.
My inner child was completely unleashed as we winded through the corn maze. Kealy, Liam, and I made it our goal to scare the adults so we would run and hide in the stalks and jump out when we heard them coming close. After an hour of running through the maze we came to the end. Though it was the end of the maze, it was not the end of the excitement. We then proceeded to go on a hay ride. This was anti-climatic but fun none the less. It was made more fun by the fact that we had a camera to play with.
The pumpkins were a bit of a disappointment, so we went to lunch instead of buying any. Shaun was worried that he wasn’t going to get to be a part of the pumpkin picking (it’s a family tradition of theirs) so I am sure that had something to do with it. I thought it was pretty adorable that a 16 year old was worried he wasn’t going to get to pick pumpkins with his brother and sister. Of course, I was and still am the same way.
We enjoyed a nice lunch at a cute little college looking music/food place. On the ride home, Kealy asked me if I was going to come up for Halloween. The convo went something like this…
Kealy- “So are you going to get dressed up and go trick or treating with us this year?”
Me- “If I’m not in DC I most certainly will”
Liam – “It’s my birthday; you aren’t going to be here for that”
Me-“Actually I had thought about that and if you are going to do something for your birthday then I won’t go to DC”
(Liam was quite happy with my response as he was getting a bit jealous that Kealy and I were bonding)
Kealy-“So you are going to get dressed up and go trick or treating”
Me-“Yeah, why not, you are doing it”
Kealy-“I’m 14, you are 25!”
Me- “So”
Kealy-“You’re 25!”
Me-“It’s not like I’m going to go house to house by myself”
Kealy-“You’re 25!”
Kitty-“I get dressed up and go with you”
Me-“Kealy, I’m 25 going on 12 didn’t I prove that to you today”
Kealy-“More like 25 going on 9”
It was quite hilarious. Thinking about it now I am still laughing. “You’re 25!” Good lord. The convo finished by me saying yes, I’m an old lady. She informed me that I told her she wasn’t allowed to call me an old lady so I am not allowed to call myself one. They are too cute!
When we got back to the house Kealy was wired on soda. I had to leave because I was supposed to go to work today. In an effort to keep me there, Kealy was jumping my back and grabbing my leg begging me not to go. But, duty called so I headed out. I totally forgot I was wearing Kealy’s shoes. (Yes, my 14 year old cousin wears a size 10 just like the rest of the Kealy’s (my mom’s maiden name)/Igoe’s) I told her I would give them back. She came over and whispered in my ear “no, you keep them, that way I have a reason to visit you in the city” I of course quickly responded with “you never need a reason”. Yes, it was a fun filled family day.
I hit the road and headed to Wal-mart. I returned the file cabinet and made a quick pit stop in Old Navy. I love that store. I bought 10 tops for under $100 bucks. Gotta love the sales! Anyway, I was about 10 minutes from my apartment when I get a call from Socorro. She informs me that I don’t have to come in today. That information would have been helpful about an hour before. Grateful that I didn’t have to go to work I decided to go to IKEA in Brooklyn because there were still a few things I needed.
Around 5:30 I called Jamie (Barri’s sister) and asked her if she wanted to join me. She said sure and to pick her up around 6:30. I arrive on time and she has me waiting downstairs for 10 minutes. The thought crosses my mind: Typical Jamie.
The store closes at 10 and I had to have the car back by 11. I figured we would have ample time seeing as how we arrived at 7. I forgot who I invited to go with me. Jamie gets very distracted by shinny objects. I was running low on fuel (I had a light lunch) and was getting increasingly more and more agitated with J. I told her I would meet her at the registers. After 30 mins of waiting, I had her paged. There was no response to that so I back tracked and found her in the same spot that I left her 40 mins prior. I almost died. I literally dragged her out of the store and repeated as I have in the past “I am never going back to IKEA”
Apparently, as I always do, I must go back to IKEA because well the shelves I bought don’t fit the right way. AWESOME! More defective objects. I would say you know what I’m doing next weekend but since the 15th falls on the Wednesday of that week, I will most likely be working. In conclusion, though IKEA was a nightmare, I had a blast today and can’t wait to get back up to CT to hang with some of my most favorite cousins. I must run, tomorrow is going to be a long day, so I bid you ado until next time. Hope you all had a great weekend!
Anyway, I got the car, packed it up with items I needed to return at Wal-mart and headed to Connecticut to visit with my cousins. When I got to Kitty’s, Dan was making fried egg sandwiches. They were delicious and a perfect way to start the day. Everyone sat at the kitchen table and ate, (it was sooo nice to have a family meal) and then Dan, Kit, Liam, Kealy and I were off to the high school to play some soccer. Shaun had something for school to do so he wasn’t in attendance the entire day. It bummed me out a bit but I know we’ll get a chance to hang now that I live so close.
While the kids and Dan messed around on the field, I played around with my camera. The pics can be viewed to the right. Once I put the camera down I was out on the field with the kids. We had a blast. I may or may not have lightly sprained my ankle while kicking the ball around but I didn’t let Kealy, the high school soccer star, score on me so I was doing something right.
After getting sweaty and disgusting, (which took effort because it was in the 50’s today) we dropped Dan off and met up with Maureen, Katie, and Jackie. We were off to the corn farm to pick pumpkins and part take in all that autumn encompasses up North. Being from South Florida, we don’t often have corn fields to run around in or pumpkin patches to get our pumpkins from, so this was a huge treat for me.
My inner child was completely unleashed as we winded through the corn maze. Kealy, Liam, and I made it our goal to scare the adults so we would run and hide in the stalks and jump out when we heard them coming close. After an hour of running through the maze we came to the end. Though it was the end of the maze, it was not the end of the excitement. We then proceeded to go on a hay ride. This was anti-climatic but fun none the less. It was made more fun by the fact that we had a camera to play with.
The pumpkins were a bit of a disappointment, so we went to lunch instead of buying any. Shaun was worried that he wasn’t going to get to be a part of the pumpkin picking (it’s a family tradition of theirs) so I am sure that had something to do with it. I thought it was pretty adorable that a 16 year old was worried he wasn’t going to get to pick pumpkins with his brother and sister. Of course, I was and still am the same way.
We enjoyed a nice lunch at a cute little college looking music/food place. On the ride home, Kealy asked me if I was going to come up for Halloween. The convo went something like this…
Kealy- “So are you going to get dressed up and go trick or treating with us this year?”
Me- “If I’m not in DC I most certainly will”
Liam – “It’s my birthday; you aren’t going to be here for that”
Me-“Actually I had thought about that and if you are going to do something for your birthday then I won’t go to DC”
(Liam was quite happy with my response as he was getting a bit jealous that Kealy and I were bonding)
Kealy-“So you are going to get dressed up and go trick or treating”
Me-“Yeah, why not, you are doing it”
Kealy-“I’m 14, you are 25!”
Me- “So”
Kealy-“You’re 25!”
Me-“It’s not like I’m going to go house to house by myself”
Kealy-“You’re 25!”
Kitty-“I get dressed up and go with you”
Me-“Kealy, I’m 25 going on 12 didn’t I prove that to you today”
Kealy-“More like 25 going on 9”
It was quite hilarious. Thinking about it now I am still laughing. “You’re 25!” Good lord. The convo finished by me saying yes, I’m an old lady. She informed me that I told her she wasn’t allowed to call me an old lady so I am not allowed to call myself one. They are too cute!
When we got back to the house Kealy was wired on soda. I had to leave because I was supposed to go to work today. In an effort to keep me there, Kealy was jumping my back and grabbing my leg begging me not to go. But, duty called so I headed out. I totally forgot I was wearing Kealy’s shoes. (Yes, my 14 year old cousin wears a size 10 just like the rest of the Kealy’s (my mom’s maiden name)/Igoe’s) I told her I would give them back. She came over and whispered in my ear “no, you keep them, that way I have a reason to visit you in the city” I of course quickly responded with “you never need a reason”. Yes, it was a fun filled family day.
I hit the road and headed to Wal-mart. I returned the file cabinet and made a quick pit stop in Old Navy. I love that store. I bought 10 tops for under $100 bucks. Gotta love the sales! Anyway, I was about 10 minutes from my apartment when I get a call from Socorro. She informs me that I don’t have to come in today. That information would have been helpful about an hour before. Grateful that I didn’t have to go to work I decided to go to IKEA in Brooklyn because there were still a few things I needed.
Around 5:30 I called Jamie (Barri’s sister) and asked her if she wanted to join me. She said sure and to pick her up around 6:30. I arrive on time and she has me waiting downstairs for 10 minutes. The thought crosses my mind: Typical Jamie.
The store closes at 10 and I had to have the car back by 11. I figured we would have ample time seeing as how we arrived at 7. I forgot who I invited to go with me. Jamie gets very distracted by shinny objects. I was running low on fuel (I had a light lunch) and was getting increasingly more and more agitated with J. I told her I would meet her at the registers. After 30 mins of waiting, I had her paged. There was no response to that so I back tracked and found her in the same spot that I left her 40 mins prior. I almost died. I literally dragged her out of the store and repeated as I have in the past “I am never going back to IKEA”
Apparently, as I always do, I must go back to IKEA because well the shelves I bought don’t fit the right way. AWESOME! More defective objects. I would say you know what I’m doing next weekend but since the 15th falls on the Wednesday of that week, I will most likely be working. In conclusion, though IKEA was a nightmare, I had a blast today and can’t wait to get back up to CT to hang with some of my most favorite cousins. I must run, tomorrow is going to be a long day, so I bid you ado until next time. Hope you all had a great weekend!
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Bloody Socks and A Date With Myself
I was able to get a good night’s sleep last night. I of course woke up wanting more sleep however 10 hours is double what I get during the week. I didn’t have much time after greeting the morning before my basketball game. I made a cup of coffee, which my cousin informed is like mud, messed around online, and was off to relive my high school glory days on the basketball court.
I played well, in fact I got drafted to play for another team for the day, they were missing a girl. I wound up playing for roughly 3 hours. I had two more games left when I noticed I had red showing threw my white shoes. This seemed strange as I wasn’t wearing red socks. I knew immediately it was blood. So I took my shoe off and found my socks (as I double up when I play ball) completely soaked in blood. Needless to say I called it a day.
I was supposed to go into work after the game. I took a taxi home. Usually I walk the 4 miles home but today my foot was killing me as I busted my toe open (hence the bloody socks) and I needed to get to work. It should be noted that the taxi home was truly disappointing because today it was a beautiful fall day. I would have loved to walk through Central Park and just enjoy the day, but I digress. I got home ready for a hot shower as at this point I am quite cold.
Unfortunately, a hot shower didn’t seem to be in the cards for me. Sometimes, I can’t get hot water. Have no fear; I called the not so super, Super, today to complain about it. Anyway, I got a phone call from Trey informing me she was stuck in traffic and not to rush to work. This worked out well as I really didn’t want to take a cold shower. I waited about an hour and then tested the waters…SUCCESS!!! HOT WATER…Excited about my discovery, I immediately jumped in and relished in the hot hot water that was taking the various basketball games played off of me.
I was hoping I would have time to do my hair as I am going to CT tomorrow to go to a pumpkin patch and corn maze with my cousins. Trey had called saying she didn’t think she would be in till much later or possibly not at all. Translation; I got to do my hair.
I realized at some point that I wasn’t really feeling up to par. I was really hoping Trey would just turn around and go home and that I wouldn’t have to come into the office. God was on my side today because she told me not to worry about coming in. WAHOO! Inside of slaving away with numbers I had a date with myself. I opened the windows, as it is cool out, lit several candles, cuddled up under a magnificent blanket, and proceeded to watch 3 good movies. All and all it was a great day although I could have done without the busted toe. Well kids I am off to bed because I have an exciting day ahead of me tomorrow. Nite!
I played well, in fact I got drafted to play for another team for the day, they were missing a girl. I wound up playing for roughly 3 hours. I had two more games left when I noticed I had red showing threw my white shoes. This seemed strange as I wasn’t wearing red socks. I knew immediately it was blood. So I took my shoe off and found my socks (as I double up when I play ball) completely soaked in blood. Needless to say I called it a day.
I was supposed to go into work after the game. I took a taxi home. Usually I walk the 4 miles home but today my foot was killing me as I busted my toe open (hence the bloody socks) and I needed to get to work. It should be noted that the taxi home was truly disappointing because today it was a beautiful fall day. I would have loved to walk through Central Park and just enjoy the day, but I digress. I got home ready for a hot shower as at this point I am quite cold.
Unfortunately, a hot shower didn’t seem to be in the cards for me. Sometimes, I can’t get hot water. Have no fear; I called the not so super, Super, today to complain about it. Anyway, I got a phone call from Trey informing me she was stuck in traffic and not to rush to work. This worked out well as I really didn’t want to take a cold shower. I waited about an hour and then tested the waters…SUCCESS!!! HOT WATER…Excited about my discovery, I immediately jumped in and relished in the hot hot water that was taking the various basketball games played off of me.
I was hoping I would have time to do my hair as I am going to CT tomorrow to go to a pumpkin patch and corn maze with my cousins. Trey had called saying she didn’t think she would be in till much later or possibly not at all. Translation; I got to do my hair.
I realized at some point that I wasn’t really feeling up to par. I was really hoping Trey would just turn around and go home and that I wouldn’t have to come into the office. God was on my side today because she told me not to worry about coming in. WAHOO! Inside of slaving away with numbers I had a date with myself. I opened the windows, as it is cool out, lit several candles, cuddled up under a magnificent blanket, and proceeded to watch 3 good movies. All and all it was a great day although I could have done without the busted toe. Well kids I am off to bed because I have an exciting day ahead of me tomorrow. Nite!
Saturday, October 4, 2008
A Home Cooked Meal
Let me start off by saying; I can’t believe it is October already. It’s chilly here. By chilly, I mean cold. To put it in perspective, today’s weather was equivalent to the coldest day in South Florida. Winter should be fun.
I have been busy working but I will say that today when I got home I proceeded to cook myself an amazing 4 course meal. I had called my parents at the office and was telling them how I miss a good home cooked meal. My dad suggested I cook. Don’t get me wrong, I truly enjoy cooking; however it is much more fulfilling when it is for more than one.
On my way home, I was trying to decide what I was going to eat for dinner. I ultimately came to the conclusion that nothing would satisfy me unless it was a hot home cooked meal. Off I went to the Food Emporium, where I proceeded to purchase $40.00 worth of food.
During the busy season, the company gets us dinner as we are a slave to our job. So $40.00 is a bit outrageous for one evening. I have extras though. I am just going to have to cook/eat them before they go bad. Looks like I will be bringing my lunch to work next week.
Anyway, it started off with a salad; delicious portabella mushrooms sautéed with garlic and onions followed. The main course was baked chicken and a sweet potato. The best part of the entire meal was definitely the dessert. I should have taken a picture of my beautifully constructed fruit and ice cream extravaganza. It is a Mary Igoe special. Picture a warm, crispy, phyllo pastry filled with vanilla ice cream and a smorgasbord of fresh strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries. This whole concoction was drizzled with just a light touch of raspberry sauce. It was decadent.
My week was quite mild; worked till at least midnight throughout and have somehow managed to not fall asleep. On that note, I am going to try and catch up on some zzzz’s. I have a basketball game tomorrow which I’m looking forward to and then I have to go to work. The ladder part I am obviously not as enthralled about. It’s ok though, because someone needs to pay for my trip to India. Until next time…
I have been busy working but I will say that today when I got home I proceeded to cook myself an amazing 4 course meal. I had called my parents at the office and was telling them how I miss a good home cooked meal. My dad suggested I cook. Don’t get me wrong, I truly enjoy cooking; however it is much more fulfilling when it is for more than one.
On my way home, I was trying to decide what I was going to eat for dinner. I ultimately came to the conclusion that nothing would satisfy me unless it was a hot home cooked meal. Off I went to the Food Emporium, where I proceeded to purchase $40.00 worth of food.
During the busy season, the company gets us dinner as we are a slave to our job. So $40.00 is a bit outrageous for one evening. I have extras though. I am just going to have to cook/eat them before they go bad. Looks like I will be bringing my lunch to work next week.
Anyway, it started off with a salad; delicious portabella mushrooms sautéed with garlic and onions followed. The main course was baked chicken and a sweet potato. The best part of the entire meal was definitely the dessert. I should have taken a picture of my beautifully constructed fruit and ice cream extravaganza. It is a Mary Igoe special. Picture a warm, crispy, phyllo pastry filled with vanilla ice cream and a smorgasbord of fresh strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries. This whole concoction was drizzled with just a light touch of raspberry sauce. It was decadent.
My week was quite mild; worked till at least midnight throughout and have somehow managed to not fall asleep. On that note, I am going to try and catch up on some zzzz’s. I have a basketball game tomorrow which I’m looking forward to and then I have to go to work. The ladder part I am obviously not as enthralled about. It’s ok though, because someone needs to pay for my trip to India. Until next time…
Sunday, September 28, 2008
A Two Day Weekend
This weekend was wonderful and felt like a guilty pleasure because I didn’t have to work! It feels like a holiday when you get 2 days off. I can only imagine how unmotivated I will be when I return to the office after 5 weeks of flitting around the world…literally.
Friday night Ana and I had a movie night, as mentioned before. Saturday I woke up at 11 and though I wanted to clean my apartment, felt totally unmotivated and instead just hung out before my basketball game. The games were great and I finally started getting my skills back. I had a whole cheering section going because well, I’m a crowd favorite :)
On game days, I usually walk the 4 miles home. It is a beautiful walk home along central park west. My games are play at 102 and Amsterdam and I live on 58th. I usually walk on the outskirts of the park and cut over around Columbus Circle (which is an awesome place to shop). On this day, being adventurous, I decided to actually cut through the park. It was delightful. I came across a wonderfully large lake with breath taking views of tall building surrounding the peaceful park that makes you feel like you are somewhere other than New York City. It should be noted that every time I go to the park I ALWAYS miss Maddox and wish I was walking with him because he would love it. Anyway, I’m on the phone with my mom when I come across to the other side and realize that I am back at 102th street. Of course, I am on the east side now but somehow I managed to backtrack 12 blocks.
Feeling silly, but still not minding the extra mileage, I continue the walk. I had to get home because Socorro was going to pick me up so we could go see “The Little Mermaid” on Broadway. I finally get home with no time to spare. I realize I left our tickets at the office so I jump in the shower, throw on anything I can find, and taxi it to the office to pick up the tickets. By the time I got home I had 15mins to get ready. Needless to say, when Socorro got there, I was ready. I’m quick like that.
The show was amazing! It felt like I was at Disney. The Under the Sea part of the show was my favorite. After that we went to some Italian restaurant and ate baked claims and chicken Marsala while enjoying a great glass of Sangria. It was a good night with great company. Note, I’m listening to the song Under the Sea as I type. Oh how I love show tunes.
Today, I again woke up at 11. I would have preferred to sleep later but apparently my body wasn’t agreeing with me. My plan for today was to try and get a new bed but I couldn’t rent a U-Haul. I was talking about renting a car and going to Jersey to go shopping at Wal-Mart at work on Friday. Everyone thought I was nuts to get a car just for Wal-Mart but they have no idea the joy I get out Wal-Mart and driving.
I joined this thing called ZipCar. You can rent any type of car you want for the day or just a couple of hours and gas, tolls, and parking is paid. You pay $20 for the membership for the year and then anywhere between $9-13 an hour; it could be less depending on what type of membership you get and if you rent for the day it is discounted. It is a pretty sweet deal especially since parking in the City costs an arm and a leg.
Anyway, I rented an SUV, picked up Ana and we were off to Jersey. It felt great to drive. Oh I miss it. We both loaded up as it is MUCH cheaper there then here. I dropped off Ana and the car and then walked half of the way home before realizing I was absolutely starving and needed to eat ASAP. I flagged down a Taxi and was at the Food Emporium before I knew it. I got some Sushi and proceeded to enjoy a wonderful evening hanging out with myself. It should be said that the file cabinet I bought was complete smashed so you know what I’ll be doing next weekend. I always seem to get the defective products.
Like I said, it was a good weekend, other than the defective product incident. Hope everyone enjoyed their weekend as well. Until next time…
Friday night Ana and I had a movie night, as mentioned before. Saturday I woke up at 11 and though I wanted to clean my apartment, felt totally unmotivated and instead just hung out before my basketball game. The games were great and I finally started getting my skills back. I had a whole cheering section going because well, I’m a crowd favorite :)
On game days, I usually walk the 4 miles home. It is a beautiful walk home along central park west. My games are play at 102 and Amsterdam and I live on 58th. I usually walk on the outskirts of the park and cut over around Columbus Circle (which is an awesome place to shop). On this day, being adventurous, I decided to actually cut through the park. It was delightful. I came across a wonderfully large lake with breath taking views of tall building surrounding the peaceful park that makes you feel like you are somewhere other than New York City. It should be noted that every time I go to the park I ALWAYS miss Maddox and wish I was walking with him because he would love it. Anyway, I’m on the phone with my mom when I come across to the other side and realize that I am back at 102th street. Of course, I am on the east side now but somehow I managed to backtrack 12 blocks.
Feeling silly, but still not minding the extra mileage, I continue the walk. I had to get home because Socorro was going to pick me up so we could go see “The Little Mermaid” on Broadway. I finally get home with no time to spare. I realize I left our tickets at the office so I jump in the shower, throw on anything I can find, and taxi it to the office to pick up the tickets. By the time I got home I had 15mins to get ready. Needless to say, when Socorro got there, I was ready. I’m quick like that.
The show was amazing! It felt like I was at Disney. The Under the Sea part of the show was my favorite. After that we went to some Italian restaurant and ate baked claims and chicken Marsala while enjoying a great glass of Sangria. It was a good night with great company. Note, I’m listening to the song Under the Sea as I type. Oh how I love show tunes.
Today, I again woke up at 11. I would have preferred to sleep later but apparently my body wasn’t agreeing with me. My plan for today was to try and get a new bed but I couldn’t rent a U-Haul. I was talking about renting a car and going to Jersey to go shopping at Wal-Mart at work on Friday. Everyone thought I was nuts to get a car just for Wal-Mart but they have no idea the joy I get out Wal-Mart and driving.
I joined this thing called ZipCar. You can rent any type of car you want for the day or just a couple of hours and gas, tolls, and parking is paid. You pay $20 for the membership for the year and then anywhere between $9-13 an hour; it could be less depending on what type of membership you get and if you rent for the day it is discounted. It is a pretty sweet deal especially since parking in the City costs an arm and a leg.
Anyway, I rented an SUV, picked up Ana and we were off to Jersey. It felt great to drive. Oh I miss it. We both loaded up as it is MUCH cheaper there then here. I dropped off Ana and the car and then walked half of the way home before realizing I was absolutely starving and needed to eat ASAP. I flagged down a Taxi and was at the Food Emporium before I knew it. I got some Sushi and proceeded to enjoy a wonderful evening hanging out with myself. It should be said that the file cabinet I bought was complete smashed so you know what I’ll be doing next weekend. I always seem to get the defective products.
Like I said, it was a good weekend, other than the defective product incident. Hope everyone enjoyed their weekend as well. Until next time…
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Long Over Due
Sorry for the delay. Between deadlines, managers having babies, and trying desperately not to be a slave to my job, my writing has taken a back seat. Tonight I saw two very interesting movies: Vicky Cristina Barcelona and The Women. I highly recommend both! The Women is a feel good, love your girlfriends kinda movie and will leave you wanting to call your close girlfriends to tell them you love them. Vicky Cristina Barcelona will have you laughing and make you wonder how you want to live your life. Again both movies are a good watch.
Have you ever had one of those days when you believe everything is just amazing and falling into place like you never imagined it could? Well, as my foreshadowing leaves little to the imagination, I had one of those days. I know, this is a far cry from my sob stories posted earlier. On Wednesday of this week, a partner I work for came running by my cube and asked me if I had a second. (Let me give you a little bit of background on said partner: this is a man who runs around and wreaks havoc on his staff. You generally don’t want to get caught in his wrath. All that being said, he is a person who genuinely cares about his staff and will go out on a limb for them)
So he runs by my cube and I’m thinking, “Oh God, what is going on”. Also note, stress is high as deadlines approach. I respond with, of course, and then he says: “do you have a passport”. I say yes but am thinking in my head: “oh God where are they going to send me”.
I walk into Yessi’s office (my manager and the one solely responsible for my job in NYC) and I see Liz. Turns out, I am going to get the opportunity to travel to India and train people over there. I am so excited! Not only do I get to travel to India and experience the culture over there but I get to do it with 2 of my closest friends here. AMAZING! We are going to Paris first, then India, and then to Spain. AHHHHH I can’t wait to visit Sal Gal. This is going to be an amazing trip! I am off to bed but I have to say I never thought within a year of working I would be living in New York and be sent on an international trip to train others. Life is good!
Have you ever had one of those days when you believe everything is just amazing and falling into place like you never imagined it could? Well, as my foreshadowing leaves little to the imagination, I had one of those days. I know, this is a far cry from my sob stories posted earlier. On Wednesday of this week, a partner I work for came running by my cube and asked me if I had a second. (Let me give you a little bit of background on said partner: this is a man who runs around and wreaks havoc on his staff. You generally don’t want to get caught in his wrath. All that being said, he is a person who genuinely cares about his staff and will go out on a limb for them)
So he runs by my cube and I’m thinking, “Oh God, what is going on”. Also note, stress is high as deadlines approach. I respond with, of course, and then he says: “do you have a passport”. I say yes but am thinking in my head: “oh God where are they going to send me”.
I walk into Yessi’s office (my manager and the one solely responsible for my job in NYC) and I see Liz. Turns out, I am going to get the opportunity to travel to India and train people over there. I am so excited! Not only do I get to travel to India and experience the culture over there but I get to do it with 2 of my closest friends here. AMAZING! We are going to Paris first, then India, and then to Spain. AHHHHH I can’t wait to visit Sal Gal. This is going to be an amazing trip! I am off to bed but I have to say I never thought within a year of working I would be living in New York and be sent on an international trip to train others. Life is good!
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Suprise Visit Home
Today I booked a flight home for the day after busy season to surprise my mom at a breast cancer walk she and my brother are doing. I am so very excited. Not only do I get to go home, I get to support my mom in something that means a lot to her. It is going to be hard to keep this a secret since I am a two year old when it comes to surprises and gifts but this must be kept under wraps.
It's getting cold here. I keep walking out in the morning waiting to be hit in the face with damp heat but that doesn't seem to be in the cards. It is strange to experience seasons again. I remember when I moved to GA, walking up to the building on the first day of school and being so cold. I couldn't get over how it could be cold in August. I forget it isn't 90 degrees everywhere all the time. To give you some perspective today I believe my quote was "Man it's cold, this is like the coldest day of winter in FL". Needless to say I believe the temperate was like 68 degrees.
Tomorrow, I'm going on a boat cruise for a client. It should be fun. On a side note, I have lost all motivation to work but there is still one more deadline to get through so I am going to have to find that motivation some where. I believe the last update is: I started spinning. I must say, I really like it. Our leader today was definitely in the army as he was chanting and counting like they do. It got me going. Alright all, I'm off to bed. I need to cash in when it is an early night.
It's getting cold here. I keep walking out in the morning waiting to be hit in the face with damp heat but that doesn't seem to be in the cards. It is strange to experience seasons again. I remember when I moved to GA, walking up to the building on the first day of school and being so cold. I couldn't get over how it could be cold in August. I forget it isn't 90 degrees everywhere all the time. To give you some perspective today I believe my quote was "Man it's cold, this is like the coldest day of winter in FL". Needless to say I believe the temperate was like 68 degrees.
Tomorrow, I'm going on a boat cruise for a client. It should be fun. On a side note, I have lost all motivation to work but there is still one more deadline to get through so I am going to have to find that motivation some where. I believe the last update is: I started spinning. I must say, I really like it. Our leader today was definitely in the army as he was chanting and counting like they do. It got me going. Alright all, I'm off to bed. I need to cash in when it is an early night.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
All Caugth Up
August 23, 2008:
Friday night, after a long week, my friend Ana and her friend Dani take me to dinner in the meat packing district. It was a nice restaurant. In New York, during the summer, everyone eats outside as the weather is beautiful. So like everyone else, we enjoyed what mother-nature was putting out. Prior to any alcoholic beverages, my stomach wasn’t feeling up to par, so I went to the bathroom and tried to throw up. I was unsuccessful and decided that I wouldn’t drink because I didn’t want to further upset it.
Following dinner we proceeded to go out. We wound up at Tribe, this hip little bar in the east Village. I had been there a few times before. The music is great and the ambiance isn’t bad. Despite my prior intention of not drinking, we proceed to get pretty good and wasted. On the ride home, I ask the taxi to pull over as I had to toss my cookies.
I get home and head straight to the bathroom to be sick. Sally and her boy were suppose to come the next day so we could go to Jeff’s wedding. Well I wound up with a stomach flu (drinking was an awful idea) and wind up in bed the entire weekend with the flu. It sucked. I Sal for all of 15 mins and didn’t make it to Jeff’s wedding : (
This flu last well into the week but during tax season there is no such thing as being sick.
Labor Day Weekend:
My friend Steve comes to visit. I had to work on Saturday. He met me at work and then a bunch of us went to an Italian festival in Brooklyn. We had a blast. It was like the garlic festival for those who have been and also like Ourtown with a hint of street fair thrown into the mix. After stuffing ourselves with as much yummy food as possibly we then started playing fair games and going threw the fun houses set up. At one point, Steve and I enjoyed a dance in the street. After taking in all the Italian we could, Trey drove Steve and I to the train station.
Let me paint you a little picture. A strip of stores, cops outside the station door, and a ton of various ethnicities and don’t make you want to get out of the car. So Steve and I, the two whitest people in America brave the Ghetto and get out to jump on a train back to the City. We get our Metro cards, go threw the turn stile and find that there are no trains leaving from this station back to the city. We wanted to die.
We are now stuck, as Trey had left at least 10 mins prior, in a Ghetto section of Brooklyn not having any idea of where to go. I immediately start blowing up Treys phone to no avail. So we ask the cops where the nearest station Manhattan bound train is. They laugh at us and send us on our way. We start our adventure through the ghetto. I kept saying we were walking through the valley of the shadow of death. It was hilarious, yet super scary. After a mile or so walk we wind up at another train station. At this point we get in touch with Trey but we are already safely on our way back to the City. The entire ride home (which was an hour) we were crying laughing about anything and everything.
The next day we woke up and walked to Central park. We had an awesome day just hanging out enjoy the amazing weather. We then headed to Ikea as I had to return something. After we got back we went to a sushi place by my apartment. After a few drinks I decided we needed to be having cookies. So we ventured out to find the pre-made cookies that they sell. Of course, at 11 on a Sunday it is hard to find a place like that. Needless to say, I wound up making them from scratch. YUMMY!
The next day Steve left : ( and I ventured to Staten Island for a BBQ at Lizi’s familys house. It was quite nice. The drive was great and worked out well because as it turns out I would be saying goodbye to my car the next. I think it really felt like I moved as soon as I shipped my car home. It kinda felt like I was now trapped here or something. Anyway the next week came and went which leaves me to the Crisis of Faith weekend written about below.
August 13, 2008
This weekend was great. After work on Friday, Trey, J and I went to Houston’s for dinner. It was nice. I was exhausted as I had work till 4 am on Thursday night so I figured I would pass out. That however was not the case. I wound up going to bed at 5am. I woke up on Saturday at 1:00 only because my alarm went off. I jumped out of bed, got my laundry together, and headed out to make my basketball game. I dropped the laundry off by my building and set out to buy a pair of bball shoes and a ball. You would think I would have packed a pair, but I guess I didn’t think I would be ballin up here.
The games are played in a high school gym which is kinda cool. I had a blast. The people seem really cool. Afterwards we all went out for happy hour (or just dinner so to speak). I proceeded to walk home, watch some tv, and pass out. I went to bed around 10:30 and woke up at noon today. It was awesome. I needed to catch up on some major zzz’s. Today, Trey picked me up for work. Turns out there was a street fair outside the office so we part took in that before heading to the dungeon. Needless to say I worked for a bit and now I’m here writing to you guys. My plan now is to shower, do my hair and hit the hay. It’s going to be another long week, I can feel it.
Friday night, after a long week, my friend Ana and her friend Dani take me to dinner in the meat packing district. It was a nice restaurant. In New York, during the summer, everyone eats outside as the weather is beautiful. So like everyone else, we enjoyed what mother-nature was putting out. Prior to any alcoholic beverages, my stomach wasn’t feeling up to par, so I went to the bathroom and tried to throw up. I was unsuccessful and decided that I wouldn’t drink because I didn’t want to further upset it.
Following dinner we proceeded to go out. We wound up at Tribe, this hip little bar in the east Village. I had been there a few times before. The music is great and the ambiance isn’t bad. Despite my prior intention of not drinking, we proceed to get pretty good and wasted. On the ride home, I ask the taxi to pull over as I had to toss my cookies.
I get home and head straight to the bathroom to be sick. Sally and her boy were suppose to come the next day so we could go to Jeff’s wedding. Well I wound up with a stomach flu (drinking was an awful idea) and wind up in bed the entire weekend with the flu. It sucked. I Sal for all of 15 mins and didn’t make it to Jeff’s wedding : (
This flu last well into the week but during tax season there is no such thing as being sick.
Labor Day Weekend:
My friend Steve comes to visit. I had to work on Saturday. He met me at work and then a bunch of us went to an Italian festival in Brooklyn. We had a blast. It was like the garlic festival for those who have been and also like Ourtown with a hint of street fair thrown into the mix. After stuffing ourselves with as much yummy food as possibly we then started playing fair games and going threw the fun houses set up. At one point, Steve and I enjoyed a dance in the street. After taking in all the Italian we could, Trey drove Steve and I to the train station.
Let me paint you a little picture. A strip of stores, cops outside the station door, and a ton of various ethnicities and don’t make you want to get out of the car. So Steve and I, the two whitest people in America brave the Ghetto and get out to jump on a train back to the City. We get our Metro cards, go threw the turn stile and find that there are no trains leaving from this station back to the city. We wanted to die.
We are now stuck, as Trey had left at least 10 mins prior, in a Ghetto section of Brooklyn not having any idea of where to go. I immediately start blowing up Treys phone to no avail. So we ask the cops where the nearest station Manhattan bound train is. They laugh at us and send us on our way. We start our adventure through the ghetto. I kept saying we were walking through the valley of the shadow of death. It was hilarious, yet super scary. After a mile or so walk we wind up at another train station. At this point we get in touch with Trey but we are already safely on our way back to the City. The entire ride home (which was an hour) we were crying laughing about anything and everything.
The next day we woke up and walked to Central park. We had an awesome day just hanging out enjoy the amazing weather. We then headed to Ikea as I had to return something. After we got back we went to a sushi place by my apartment. After a few drinks I decided we needed to be having cookies. So we ventured out to find the pre-made cookies that they sell. Of course, at 11 on a Sunday it is hard to find a place like that. Needless to say, I wound up making them from scratch. YUMMY!
The next day Steve left : ( and I ventured to Staten Island for a BBQ at Lizi’s familys house. It was quite nice. The drive was great and worked out well because as it turns out I would be saying goodbye to my car the next. I think it really felt like I moved as soon as I shipped my car home. It kinda felt like I was now trapped here or something. Anyway the next week came and went which leaves me to the Crisis of Faith weekend written about below.
August 13, 2008
This weekend was great. After work on Friday, Trey, J and I went to Houston’s for dinner. It was nice. I was exhausted as I had work till 4 am on Thursday night so I figured I would pass out. That however was not the case. I wound up going to bed at 5am. I woke up on Saturday at 1:00 only because my alarm went off. I jumped out of bed, got my laundry together, and headed out to make my basketball game. I dropped the laundry off by my building and set out to buy a pair of bball shoes and a ball. You would think I would have packed a pair, but I guess I didn’t think I would be ballin up here.
The games are played in a high school gym which is kinda cool. I had a blast. The people seem really cool. Afterwards we all went out for happy hour (or just dinner so to speak). I proceeded to walk home, watch some tv, and pass out. I went to bed around 10:30 and woke up at noon today. It was awesome. I needed to catch up on some major zzz’s. Today, Trey picked me up for work. Turns out there was a street fair outside the office so we part took in that before heading to the dungeon. Needless to say I worked for a bit and now I’m here writing to you guys. My plan now is to shower, do my hair and hit the hay. It’s going to be another long week, I can feel it.
Saturday, September 13, 2008
The Philosopher in Me
Back in high school we thought we knew everything. We planned, we were on top of the world, we thought we would take the world by storm. I’m not sure I have taken the world by storm but I do believe I am beginning to make my mark on it. We had dreams of being anything we wanted.
7 years later, I am living in New York. I dreamed about this. I have said I wanted to move here forever and now I’m here. I did what I set out to do. I made it to New York. My plans didn’t really waiver since high school. My means to an end has changed but my goal of living and working in the city were successful. I don’t think anyone would have said I would go into accounting when I was younger.
Yet, here I sit, glass on, writing on a Friday night about how my career got me to my favorite city in the world. Despite my boisterous laugh, my childishness and I don’t mean being petty, and my willingness to make a complete fool out of myself for a laugh, I am an accountant.
Last weekend, I had a crisis of faith so to speak. I wrote an entry, which was not posted, about how maybe dreams aren’t suppose to come true because maybe they were just glorified memories or a false sense of reality. But in a weeks time, I’m going with, it’s just an adjustment.
I’m reading a book, which I bought during said crisis of faith, called “Wherever you go there you are”. I thought it was poignant. It talks about living in the moment, which I had completely lost sight of. I was drowning so to speak in my own loss although maybe I was just living in the moment of sadness at how much I missed my family and friends.
Don’t get me wrong, I still miss them, but instead of damning this place and convincing myself that this was a mistake, I am looking at it as an opportunity. Note, career wise, I know it is huge opportunity, but I am now looking at like a personal opportunity to explore who I am on my own. Most people say college is where you find yourself. I lived at home for 2 of those years, plus at that age I think you are too immature to be able to really “find” yourself.
For the first time, I am paying all of my own bills (scary!). I am completely on my own so to speak and I think I kinda like it. I still need my parents, as they still help me with things, but I am kinda figuring this whole adult thing out.
Things I have learned so far:
- You will always need your parents, even if it’s just to chat on the phone while you walk home.
- I can work late hours without an intervenus drip of coffee and not hate my job
- People in New York aren’t as rude as they are portrayed but are still pretty rude.
- I never thought I would miss walking outside and feeling a rush of heat in my face.
- Distance has a way of making you long for the past.
- Relationships can grow despite the distance
I am sure there are more things to write but I believe these are enough bits of truth for the moment. I wasn’t intending on making this page a mind dump shrine, however today I’m feeling more philosophical then story teller, thus this is my post.
To conclude with where I left off last time, I wound up getting 95% of the things I needed. A funny tid bit along the way: I bought a large mirror, hung it on the wall behind the futon, several hours later when my mom and I got back to the apartment, it was sitting on the futon. Needless to say, it now resides in the hallway. That is all for now. Check in next time to see which way I’ll write. : )
7 years later, I am living in New York. I dreamed about this. I have said I wanted to move here forever and now I’m here. I did what I set out to do. I made it to New York. My plans didn’t really waiver since high school. My means to an end has changed but my goal of living and working in the city were successful. I don’t think anyone would have said I would go into accounting when I was younger.
Yet, here I sit, glass on, writing on a Friday night about how my career got me to my favorite city in the world. Despite my boisterous laugh, my childishness and I don’t mean being petty, and my willingness to make a complete fool out of myself for a laugh, I am an accountant.
Last weekend, I had a crisis of faith so to speak. I wrote an entry, which was not posted, about how maybe dreams aren’t suppose to come true because maybe they were just glorified memories or a false sense of reality. But in a weeks time, I’m going with, it’s just an adjustment.
I’m reading a book, which I bought during said crisis of faith, called “Wherever you go there you are”. I thought it was poignant. It talks about living in the moment, which I had completely lost sight of. I was drowning so to speak in my own loss although maybe I was just living in the moment of sadness at how much I missed my family and friends.
Don’t get me wrong, I still miss them, but instead of damning this place and convincing myself that this was a mistake, I am looking at it as an opportunity. Note, career wise, I know it is huge opportunity, but I am now looking at like a personal opportunity to explore who I am on my own. Most people say college is where you find yourself. I lived at home for 2 of those years, plus at that age I think you are too immature to be able to really “find” yourself.
For the first time, I am paying all of my own bills (scary!). I am completely on my own so to speak and I think I kinda like it. I still need my parents, as they still help me with things, but I am kinda figuring this whole adult thing out.
Things I have learned so far:
- You will always need your parents, even if it’s just to chat on the phone while you walk home.
- I can work late hours without an intervenus drip of coffee and not hate my job
- People in New York aren’t as rude as they are portrayed but are still pretty rude.
- I never thought I would miss walking outside and feeling a rush of heat in my face.
- Distance has a way of making you long for the past.
- Relationships can grow despite the distance
I am sure there are more things to write but I believe these are enough bits of truth for the moment. I wasn’t intending on making this page a mind dump shrine, however today I’m feeling more philosophical then story teller, thus this is my post.
To conclude with where I left off last time, I wound up getting 95% of the things I needed. A funny tid bit along the way: I bought a large mirror, hung it on the wall behind the futon, several hours later when my mom and I got back to the apartment, it was sitting on the futon. Needless to say, it now resides in the hallway. That is all for now. Check in next time to see which way I’ll write. : )
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
The Almost Conclusion
Sorry for the delay, but ask and you shall receive. I’m just giving the public what they want :)
We have been working like dogs these days. To give you a glimpse, I arrived back at my apartment from work at 1:00 a.m. New York standard time. You could say it was a long day. Newest updates and then I’ll finish where I left off when I last wrote.
I went to the eye doctor today, which was strange because I have been seeing Sally’s dad for the last 18 years, and I needless to say the verdict was: glasses. It should be noted that I have perfect vision though. It seems as though I have a problem over focusing and stressing my eyes out. I like to think it’s because I’m such an over achiever that even when it come to vision I have to exceed the limits. Of course my A-type eyes have caused me headaches and for my eyes to pulse (not fun). I had a similar problem when I was little. We shall see how these computer/reading glasses work out. And you can be sure that when I go home for Thanksgiving, I will be making an appointment with the only person I truly trust on the matter, Dr. Woods.
Another update, I joined a Co-ed 3-on-3 basketball league for young professionals. I’m very excited. I was feeling very homesick this weekend and had a nice chat with my good friend Monica. She was telling me how her brother use to get involved in the synagogue and mentioned I might want to look into a church group. Since basketball is like my church, I choose that. Hopefully, I will meet some cool people.
And now a travel back in time to a few weeks earlier and the almost conclusion to my move…
At this point in the story my apartment was almost complete. There were still a few things I needed but for the most part I had done a pretty good job setting everything up. That Saturday my mom and I enjoyed a nice dinner at an Italian restaurant near my place. We sat outside and enjoyed the piano player’s music (as this restaurant was equipped with one.) Socorro (Trey) joined us later in the evening and loved the apartment as well. We were still missing a futon and coffee table (which would be the next’s day adventure) but you could tell it was a good space.
Later in the evening, Trey and I ventured out to celebrate a coworker’s b-day. The interesting thing about this bar was there was nonstop porn playing all around. Another “Welcome to New York” moment. This was especially interesting since I had never seen a porn before, so you can only imagine my shock and horror. After having a few drinks we ventured to CrifDogs, an amazing hotdog place. We enjoyed a bacon wrapped dog with other goodies on top. And they had tater tots. When was the last time you enjoyed one of those?!?! Now the bacon wrapped dog may sound gross (it was certainly my first reaction) but OMG it was outstanding. After finishing our heart attack on a bun we ventured home.
I forgot to mention. During the week my friend Ana came over to help with things around the apartment. She truly is a gem. Anyway, she brought me a house warming gift. It was a cute little plant which I named Romeo (her middle name). Unfortunately, Romeo didn’t last the week. Apparently I am not one for keeping plants alive.
Sunday, the day of rest, we woke up early and were about to venture to New Jersey once again. However, on this day, we walked outside and I just couldn’t jump back into my car. I had to enjoy the wonderful weather mother-nature had provided. So mama Dukes and I ventured to central park for a few hours to enjoy what truly was an outstanding day. We got back to my place around 3:30 and immediately jumped in the car to try and avoid rush hour traffic. This of course was not the case, as rush hour here seems to start at 3 and last until about 7.
I hate to leave you chomping at the bit but I must go to bed. Working a trillion hours a day doesn’t bode well for coherent writing. Fair thee well my dedicated readers.
We have been working like dogs these days. To give you a glimpse, I arrived back at my apartment from work at 1:00 a.m. New York standard time. You could say it was a long day. Newest updates and then I’ll finish where I left off when I last wrote.
I went to the eye doctor today, which was strange because I have been seeing Sally’s dad for the last 18 years, and I needless to say the verdict was: glasses. It should be noted that I have perfect vision though. It seems as though I have a problem over focusing and stressing my eyes out. I like to think it’s because I’m such an over achiever that even when it come to vision I have to exceed the limits. Of course my A-type eyes have caused me headaches and for my eyes to pulse (not fun). I had a similar problem when I was little. We shall see how these computer/reading glasses work out. And you can be sure that when I go home for Thanksgiving, I will be making an appointment with the only person I truly trust on the matter, Dr. Woods.
Another update, I joined a Co-ed 3-on-3 basketball league for young professionals. I’m very excited. I was feeling very homesick this weekend and had a nice chat with my good friend Monica. She was telling me how her brother use to get involved in the synagogue and mentioned I might want to look into a church group. Since basketball is like my church, I choose that. Hopefully, I will meet some cool people.
And now a travel back in time to a few weeks earlier and the almost conclusion to my move…
At this point in the story my apartment was almost complete. There were still a few things I needed but for the most part I had done a pretty good job setting everything up. That Saturday my mom and I enjoyed a nice dinner at an Italian restaurant near my place. We sat outside and enjoyed the piano player’s music (as this restaurant was equipped with one.) Socorro (Trey) joined us later in the evening and loved the apartment as well. We were still missing a futon and coffee table (which would be the next’s day adventure) but you could tell it was a good space.
Later in the evening, Trey and I ventured out to celebrate a coworker’s b-day. The interesting thing about this bar was there was nonstop porn playing all around. Another “Welcome to New York” moment. This was especially interesting since I had never seen a porn before, so you can only imagine my shock and horror. After having a few drinks we ventured to CrifDogs, an amazing hotdog place. We enjoyed a bacon wrapped dog with other goodies on top. And they had tater tots. When was the last time you enjoyed one of those?!?! Now the bacon wrapped dog may sound gross (it was certainly my first reaction) but OMG it was outstanding. After finishing our heart attack on a bun we ventured home.
I forgot to mention. During the week my friend Ana came over to help with things around the apartment. She truly is a gem. Anyway, she brought me a house warming gift. It was a cute little plant which I named Romeo (her middle name). Unfortunately, Romeo didn’t last the week. Apparently I am not one for keeping plants alive.
Sunday, the day of rest, we woke up early and were about to venture to New Jersey once again. However, on this day, we walked outside and I just couldn’t jump back into my car. I had to enjoy the wonderful weather mother-nature had provided. So mama Dukes and I ventured to central park for a few hours to enjoy what truly was an outstanding day. We got back to my place around 3:30 and immediately jumped in the car to try and avoid rush hour traffic. This of course was not the case, as rush hour here seems to start at 3 and last until about 7.
I hate to leave you chomping at the bit but I must go to bed. Working a trillion hours a day doesn’t bode well for coherent writing. Fair thee well my dedicated readers.
Friday, September 5, 2008
It Starts to Come Together
The next morning I had just enough time to organize the apartment (although there is hardly anything to organize) and get dressed before my mom arrives. I was thrilled that my mom was coming up to help but I must say I really wish my dad could have come as well. He was busy caring for my Grandmother and couldn’t leave. He is usually the one who handles the moves and though, during the process it drives all of us crazy, there is comfort in the fact that someone is taking care of it. I really missed that and I really missed him. He just has this presence that makes everything feel like no matter what, it’s going to be ok.
Anyway, I meet my mom on the street and walked her to my place. I must admit, I had down played the apartment, so the initial reactions would be better then expected. She loved the space. We weren’t there five minutes before jetting out to start the shopping process once again. After a long day of shopping (I believe we wound up back in the city around 10 or 11 in the evening), I started putting things together. At this point, I didn’t really have much, yet I had spent a fortune. We picked up a pizza and sat on the two chairs Sal and I had built on Tuesday and watched the Olympics. Then the two of us flopped onto the air mattress and slept the night away.
My mom had to wake up early to start her long drive up to Boston. So the next day I was again left to my lonesome. My mom left and about an hour later the Ikea Delivery people arrived with my furniture. My building has an intercom system so residents can let their guests in. Well my particular buzzer isn’t labeled correctly, so I get a phone call from the delivery boy telling me he is outside. I run out the door to let him in. He goes back out to grab the first piece of furniture and I try holding both doors open, only I seem to let go of the door that automatically locks, and of course I don’t have my keys on me. As the automatic lock door closes the guy comes in with a huge, heavy box and I just stare at him and say; “so I sort of just locked us both out of the building”. He looks at me with this dumb smile and just shrugs.
At this point a million thoughts are running through my mind on of which was “I’m an asshole”. I start thinking about how to break into my apartment. It should be noted that all these thoughts racing through my brain took all of a split second. Slightly humiliated, I start hitting every buzzer hoping that someone will pick up and let me in. If the didn’t work I was about to get all MacGyver but thank God someone wasn’t working and (though this really doesn’t bode well if someone was trying to break into the building) let me in. Once the furniture was in, I called my brother to rely my dumbass move for the day. He responded with “Welcome to New York” which has been a common response to the various adjustments I have been making.
I have a full day and a half to get the apartment in order before my mom arrives. So I roll up my sleeves, blast my music, and by the time my mom gets back at the apartment the next day, everything is built and in place. She was floored. She couldn’t believe the progress that happened in just a day. And that is where I will leave off tonight. There are still quite a few more stories about the actual process of getting my life in order and I have to say I really enjoying coming home from work and blogging. Thanks for stopping by.
Anyway, I meet my mom on the street and walked her to my place. I must admit, I had down played the apartment, so the initial reactions would be better then expected. She loved the space. We weren’t there five minutes before jetting out to start the shopping process once again. After a long day of shopping (I believe we wound up back in the city around 10 or 11 in the evening), I started putting things together. At this point, I didn’t really have much, yet I had spent a fortune. We picked up a pizza and sat on the two chairs Sal and I had built on Tuesday and watched the Olympics. Then the two of us flopped onto the air mattress and slept the night away.
My mom had to wake up early to start her long drive up to Boston. So the next day I was again left to my lonesome. My mom left and about an hour later the Ikea Delivery people arrived with my furniture. My building has an intercom system so residents can let their guests in. Well my particular buzzer isn’t labeled correctly, so I get a phone call from the delivery boy telling me he is outside. I run out the door to let him in. He goes back out to grab the first piece of furniture and I try holding both doors open, only I seem to let go of the door that automatically locks, and of course I don’t have my keys on me. As the automatic lock door closes the guy comes in with a huge, heavy box and I just stare at him and say; “so I sort of just locked us both out of the building”. He looks at me with this dumb smile and just shrugs.
At this point a million thoughts are running through my mind on of which was “I’m an asshole”. I start thinking about how to break into my apartment. It should be noted that all these thoughts racing through my brain took all of a split second. Slightly humiliated, I start hitting every buzzer hoping that someone will pick up and let me in. If the didn’t work I was about to get all MacGyver but thank God someone wasn’t working and (though this really doesn’t bode well if someone was trying to break into the building) let me in. Once the furniture was in, I called my brother to rely my dumbass move for the day. He responded with “Welcome to New York” which has been a common response to the various adjustments I have been making.
I have a full day and a half to get the apartment in order before my mom arrives. So I roll up my sleeves, blast my music, and by the time my mom gets back at the apartment the next day, everything is built and in place. She was floored. She couldn’t believe the progress that happened in just a day. And that is where I will leave off tonight. There are still quite a few more stories about the actual process of getting my life in order and I have to say I really enjoying coming home from work and blogging. Thanks for stopping by.
Thursday, September 4, 2008
The Melt Down
August 13, 2008: Sal leaves super early that morning (7:00am); we had gone to bed at around 4 or later. How she was able to function I will still never know. I lay in bed thinking of all the things I had to do that day and immediately find myself unable to sleep. I decide it’s probably a good idea to jump start my day early and roll out of bed.
I throw my clothes on and take a walk around the area that I will soon refer to as my home. I call my mom to inform her of how tired I truly am. Side note: My mom and dad were suppose to drive me to New York but my grandmother got sick and they had to stay and take care of her. Luckily my best friend is the greatest and could take a last minute road trip with me. To be quite honest, I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way. It only seemed right that before we both embarked on our quarter life crisis adventures (she moved to Spain) we did one last hoorah. Anyway about an hour after we had left for our laboring drive to NY my mom called and informed me that her cousin (from NJ) had passed. My immediate reaction was “I’m so sorry mom are you ok”. Once I got confirmation that she was ok, my next feeling was excitement because I knew that meant she would be coming up to New York after all. Turns out, because God works in funny ways, she was able to come up the day after Sal Gal left. And it wasn’t a moment too soon because that Wednesday was utter hell and had me crying in frustration as I realized this move was a bit more then I bargained for.
After an hour of aimless roaming, I decided the most productive thing for me to do was go back to bed. I came home and passed out until 3:00. When I woke up I couldn’t believe how late it was. I had big plans of shopping and cleaning all day. I jump out of bed, throw my clothes on, and rush out the door to begin another day of putting my life in order.
I get back in my car and start on my trek to NJ. I enlist the help of Rudolph to again guide my sleigh to Ikea, but some how, between talking with OnStar and pulling out of the parking lot, I once more wind up on the QueensBoro bridge. Again, baffled at how every road seems to lead to this bridge, I change my coordinates and head to the Ikea in Brooklyn. It should be noted that traffic between 3pm-6m is possibly the worst traffic in America and I found myself smack dab in the middle of it. Frustration sets in for the 10th time in two days.
I eventually find my way to the not so glorious Ikea and proceed to load up my cart with furniture. Now if you haven’t been to an Ikea, you can’t really understand the pain staking process one must go through in order to actually check out of the store. I, by my lonesome, have to move very heavy boxes on to a cart with wheels. So I am bending over the cart, using my feet as brakes, and trying to lift boxes on to it. I am sure the view for everyone else was quite amusing. Especially when I the occasional F bomb was dropped as I haphazardly placed boxes upon boxes on said wheely cart. I finally get through the swarms of people, as Ikea is a very popular place even on weekdays, and check out. Luckily, they do home delivery, because at this point my body hates me from all the lifting (of course it will cost you a pretty penny to do so).
I am then off to the Home Depot. I decided I needed a new toilet seat because God knows what sat on it before. I forgot to mention that my front door had a hole in it because some Jackass took out the top lock. You can imagine how safe I felt to be sleeping in an apartment with a hole in my door. I figured I could bob the builder it myself and home depot would provide the perfect remedy: a lock for the door. So I fumble through and make said purchases. By now, the sun is setting.
…
To go in and out of the city is a trip in-and-of-itself. So once out, you should probably try and get as much done as possible. Keeping to this rule of thumb I venture to Target. Of course I don’t know where Target is. I once again enlist the help of trusty Rudolph. He informs me that the closest Target is on Flatbush and a little alarm goes off in my head. Socorro (a friend from work) had warned me about this area and told me in no uncertain terms that I should not venture to that local. Since the sun is setting, and most of the shadys come out, I decide to ask her if that Target is safe to go to. The conversation goes something like this.
“Hello” - S
“Hi, I’m in hell” - D
“What’s wrong” - S
D- Bitch. Bitch. Bitch. Tears. Whine. Tears. Whine.
S- Laughing. Consoling. Laughing some more.
And then the question “Is the Target on Flatbush ok for me to travel to?”
S-“ Where are you?”
D- “I don’t know. I am at Home Depot and there is a highway near by”
S- “ Yea, but where are you?”
D- “Trey (that is what I call her), if I knew where I was, I wouldn’t have called” I of course found humor in the second where are you, as if I frequent Brooklyn often.
S- “You should be fine. It’s close to the city”
This made me slightly happy as I wanted to get as much done as possible and Target has very nice accoutrements. So I proceed on my journey only to find that this particular Target has no parking lot. I would have had to park my car in some paid parking lot, walk to the store, and then carry all of my purchases, God knows how long, back to the car. More annoyed then ever I pass on Target. Of course, I question myself the entire ride back home as it is such a bitch to leave the city and it’s expensive too! At this point it is 9:00 pm and I am exhausted. I had wanted to clean more before my mom came but that just seem like it was in the cards for me. I called my mom to again complain as I was not a happy camper. She suggested I go to bed as I was not the bubbly girl she is use to.
I heeded her advice but first thought it would be in my best interest to put a lock on the door. So I untaped the hole and proceeded to follow the instructions. To my surprise there was only a hole in the door that pasted from the outside to the inside. There was no such hole for the lock to actually connect with the wall. You can only imagine my expression. I was furious. Not only did I purchase a lock for $40 that was rendered useless by this new information, but I was left to stay a night alone in an apartment with a hole in the door. With that I had nothing left to do but throw my hands in the air and pray no one broke in. Tune in tomorrow for the finalley…My apartment gets completed and a few more posts of what seems like complaining. I promise it gets better. :)
I throw my clothes on and take a walk around the area that I will soon refer to as my home. I call my mom to inform her of how tired I truly am. Side note: My mom and dad were suppose to drive me to New York but my grandmother got sick and they had to stay and take care of her. Luckily my best friend is the greatest and could take a last minute road trip with me. To be quite honest, I wouldn’t have wanted it any other way. It only seemed right that before we both embarked on our quarter life crisis adventures (she moved to Spain) we did one last hoorah. Anyway about an hour after we had left for our laboring drive to NY my mom called and informed me that her cousin (from NJ) had passed. My immediate reaction was “I’m so sorry mom are you ok”. Once I got confirmation that she was ok, my next feeling was excitement because I knew that meant she would be coming up to New York after all. Turns out, because God works in funny ways, she was able to come up the day after Sal Gal left. And it wasn’t a moment too soon because that Wednesday was utter hell and had me crying in frustration as I realized this move was a bit more then I bargained for.
After an hour of aimless roaming, I decided the most productive thing for me to do was go back to bed. I came home and passed out until 3:00. When I woke up I couldn’t believe how late it was. I had big plans of shopping and cleaning all day. I jump out of bed, throw my clothes on, and rush out the door to begin another day of putting my life in order.
I get back in my car and start on my trek to NJ. I enlist the help of Rudolph to again guide my sleigh to Ikea, but some how, between talking with OnStar and pulling out of the parking lot, I once more wind up on the QueensBoro bridge. Again, baffled at how every road seems to lead to this bridge, I change my coordinates and head to the Ikea in Brooklyn. It should be noted that traffic between 3pm-6m is possibly the worst traffic in America and I found myself smack dab in the middle of it. Frustration sets in for the 10th time in two days.
I eventually find my way to the not so glorious Ikea and proceed to load up my cart with furniture. Now if you haven’t been to an Ikea, you can’t really understand the pain staking process one must go through in order to actually check out of the store. I, by my lonesome, have to move very heavy boxes on to a cart with wheels. So I am bending over the cart, using my feet as brakes, and trying to lift boxes on to it. I am sure the view for everyone else was quite amusing. Especially when I the occasional F bomb was dropped as I haphazardly placed boxes upon boxes on said wheely cart. I finally get through the swarms of people, as Ikea is a very popular place even on weekdays, and check out. Luckily, they do home delivery, because at this point my body hates me from all the lifting (of course it will cost you a pretty penny to do so).
I am then off to the Home Depot. I decided I needed a new toilet seat because God knows what sat on it before. I forgot to mention that my front door had a hole in it because some Jackass took out the top lock. You can imagine how safe I felt to be sleeping in an apartment with a hole in my door. I figured I could bob the builder it myself and home depot would provide the perfect remedy: a lock for the door. So I fumble through and make said purchases. By now, the sun is setting.
…
To go in and out of the city is a trip in-and-of-itself. So once out, you should probably try and get as much done as possible. Keeping to this rule of thumb I venture to Target. Of course I don’t know where Target is. I once again enlist the help of trusty Rudolph. He informs me that the closest Target is on Flatbush and a little alarm goes off in my head. Socorro (a friend from work) had warned me about this area and told me in no uncertain terms that I should not venture to that local. Since the sun is setting, and most of the shadys come out, I decide to ask her if that Target is safe to go to. The conversation goes something like this.
“Hello” - S
“Hi, I’m in hell” - D
“What’s wrong” - S
D- Bitch. Bitch. Bitch. Tears. Whine. Tears. Whine.
S- Laughing. Consoling. Laughing some more.
And then the question “Is the Target on Flatbush ok for me to travel to?”
S-“ Where are you?”
D- “I don’t know. I am at Home Depot and there is a highway near by”
S- “ Yea, but where are you?”
D- “Trey (that is what I call her), if I knew where I was, I wouldn’t have called” I of course found humor in the second where are you, as if I frequent Brooklyn often.
S- “You should be fine. It’s close to the city”
This made me slightly happy as I wanted to get as much done as possible and Target has very nice accoutrements. So I proceed on my journey only to find that this particular Target has no parking lot. I would have had to park my car in some paid parking lot, walk to the store, and then carry all of my purchases, God knows how long, back to the car. More annoyed then ever I pass on Target. Of course, I question myself the entire ride back home as it is such a bitch to leave the city and it’s expensive too! At this point it is 9:00 pm and I am exhausted. I had wanted to clean more before my mom came but that just seem like it was in the cards for me. I called my mom to again complain as I was not a happy camper. She suggested I go to bed as I was not the bubbly girl she is use to.
I heeded her advice but first thought it would be in my best interest to put a lock on the door. So I untaped the hole and proceeded to follow the instructions. To my surprise there was only a hole in the door that pasted from the outside to the inside. There was no such hole for the lock to actually connect with the wall. You can only imagine my expression. I was furious. Not only did I purchase a lock for $40 that was rendered useless by this new information, but I was left to stay a night alone in an apartment with a hole in the door. With that I had nothing left to do but throw my hands in the air and pray no one broke in. Tune in tomorrow for the finalley…My apartment gets completed and a few more posts of what seems like complaining. I promise it gets better. :)
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Part Deuce
Welcome back trusty stalkers. :) So I left off last evening with our trip to NJ on the hunt to find an unopened, brand new, air conditioner. Sal and I jump back into Tennille, my car, and headed to NJ. I, of course, have enlisted the help of Rudolph as I am unfamiliar with the surrounding area. Before heading to Wal-mart, we decided we would go to Ikea to get furniture as the only thing in my apartment was a blow up mattress and a half put together table. Of course, the wonderfully incompetent people at OnStar informed me that there wasn’t an Ikea in Elizabeth (which is not correct and is only 30mins away) and that the closest one was in Paramous (about an hour away).
At this point, I am well on my way to find the Lincoln tunnel and inevitably I wind up back on the QueensBoro Bridge which is taking me in the complete opposite direction of where I want to be going. So we travel through Queens and then the Bronx to wind up at our final destination…Ikea. Sal had never been before and let me tell you I don’t think she’ll be going back any time soon.
The pieces I picked were not in stock and well the customer service was worse then going into a 7-11 and dealing with a cashier who doesn’t speak the English. After wasting an hour or two, we wind up at Wal-mart which was closing. We run in to find a sea of ineptness after which we sat in my car and literally took a time out to scream. I kid you not; we looked at each other in complete and utter frustration, and with no other outlet, belted out the loudest and longest scream possible. And then we went on our not so merry way back to the City.
Now, you may be asking yourself, why is this note worthy and what is with the screaming? I guess you have to experience it to fully understand the true frustration that one goes through when moving into NYC. But I digress.
We are back at the ol’ dirty apartment, oh and I forgot to mention…My bathroom was suppose to be renovated before I moved in, so you can imagine my surprise when I found a hole still in the wall and rust stains from the leaky pipe above running down from the ceiling. Thank God we stocked up on cleaning supplies at the first Wal-mart stop. So we put on our big, yellow, rubber gloves and began what I can only describe as the nastiest clean up session you could ever imagine. At one point Sally turned to me and said “Danielle there is only so much I can do, I am not touching that”. This was in reference to some nasty filth that was behind the toilet.
Now don’t get me wrong, it was stressful and exasperating at points but of course Sal and I don’t do much without laughing. So there were many quote like “Fuck this, ha ha ha, OMG, that is disgusting (bursting out laughing)” and I believe you catch my drift.
How did we end the night you might be wondering; well, we made margaritas and sat on the two chairs we built and drank up. I have to say, despite the set backs, the filth, and the longing to have nothing but a warm bed to sleep in, I wouldn’t take any of it back. The next morning Sal was off to the airport and I was on my way back to Ikea. This time to the one in Brooklyn but that is another story for another day. Good night all.
At this point, I am well on my way to find the Lincoln tunnel and inevitably I wind up back on the QueensBoro Bridge which is taking me in the complete opposite direction of where I want to be going. So we travel through Queens and then the Bronx to wind up at our final destination…Ikea. Sal had never been before and let me tell you I don’t think she’ll be going back any time soon.
The pieces I picked were not in stock and well the customer service was worse then going into a 7-11 and dealing with a cashier who doesn’t speak the English. After wasting an hour or two, we wind up at Wal-mart which was closing. We run in to find a sea of ineptness after which we sat in my car and literally took a time out to scream. I kid you not; we looked at each other in complete and utter frustration, and with no other outlet, belted out the loudest and longest scream possible. And then we went on our not so merry way back to the City.
Now, you may be asking yourself, why is this note worthy and what is with the screaming? I guess you have to experience it to fully understand the true frustration that one goes through when moving into NYC. But I digress.
We are back at the ol’ dirty apartment, oh and I forgot to mention…My bathroom was suppose to be renovated before I moved in, so you can imagine my surprise when I found a hole still in the wall and rust stains from the leaky pipe above running down from the ceiling. Thank God we stocked up on cleaning supplies at the first Wal-mart stop. So we put on our big, yellow, rubber gloves and began what I can only describe as the nastiest clean up session you could ever imagine. At one point Sally turned to me and said “Danielle there is only so much I can do, I am not touching that”. This was in reference to some nasty filth that was behind the toilet.
Now don’t get me wrong, it was stressful and exasperating at points but of course Sal and I don’t do much without laughing. So there were many quote like “Fuck this, ha ha ha, OMG, that is disgusting (bursting out laughing)” and I believe you catch my drift.
How did we end the night you might be wondering; well, we made margaritas and sat on the two chairs we built and drank up. I have to say, despite the set backs, the filth, and the longing to have nothing but a warm bed to sleep in, I wouldn’t take any of it back. The next morning Sal was off to the airport and I was on my way back to Ikea. This time to the one in Brooklyn but that is another story for another day. Good night all.
Monday, September 1, 2008
New York
So as the wise women before me, I too have created a blog. I figure this is a much easier way to stay updated on what I'm doing in the Big Apple. I could probably do this on facebook or myspace but I would rather think less people have access to this (wishful thinking I'm sure). Plus this public display of narcissism will allow me to stay current with my journaling as if Facebook and Myspace weren’t enough to feed my ego.
Anyway, I have been quite the busy bee since I got up here. It took Sal and I two days of driving and we both made it in one piece. Of course there were quite a few good laughs along the way. Let’s take it back to Aug. 12, 12:30 a.m. We arrive in New York City after a night stay in Savannah, a pit stop in South of the Border, and lets not forget the speeding ticket Sally and I laughed all the way through. I was using Rudolph (my navigation system) to arrive at my final destination (the apartment). We had spent 15 hours driving and all we wanted to do was unloaded the car and sleep. Now you would think, with the help of turn by turn directions, one could arrive at their final destination with no problem. Needless to say, I wound up on the QueensBoro Bridge which was not amusing at that time of the evening. We literally drove pasted my apartment on a bridge.
Despite the set back we laughed all way the over as I am notorious for getting lost with Sally Woo. Skip to the next day. We leave my cousins apartment in Jersey City and head to the store to buy an air conditioner. Note, there are no Wal-Mart’s in New York City. We pretty much spend the better portion of the day shopping. I’ll come back to the air conditioner but first let me digress.
Sally and I are in Target and of course we needed to use the facilities. I leave Sal to do her business and a few minutes later I get a phone call from her. This wasn’t so strange as I figured she wanted to know where I was in the store. But no, she wanted me to buy her a pair of shorts, which I found quite hilarious. Apparently her pantalones were wet because the toilet basically exploded while she was on it. I am of course crying laughing at this point as I purchase a pair of pants and rush them into Sal Gal so she can change.
Now back to the air conditioner. We get back to the city in the afternoon. We are putting the place together and I am working on the air conditioner situation. Sal is busy putting together a table and I am dumb founded at the fact that this air conditioning unit has no directions. (For those of you who don’t know, NYC is very hot in the summer, so you can only imagine how hot an apartment is with no air). I get the unit in the window and come to realize that it doesn’t fit. It is about half the size of the window. I look outside and see other people’s windows with units that have an accordion looking apparatus between the windows so the unit fits the size of it. At this moment, the super, who is not so super, knocks on the door to introduce himself and ask if we need any help.
I say, why yes, and ask him where I can purchase the accordion thing, while I’m pointing at the air conditioner (direct quote). He tells me it comes with the unit. I almost flipped. As he is leaving, he asks if we need any further assistance. We promptly tell him no. Well, he looks at the table Sally is fast at work with and says: “I don’t mean to step on your toes but the legs should be on the outside of the table”. We started cracking up. (It should be noted that up until this weekend, it seemed that God was playing a joke on me and almost ever scenario had a similar ending) Needless to say, we wound up going back to NJ to return the air conditioner. At this point, we had both had it. We were going on no sleep, barely any food, and had previously been in a car for 2 days. You can imagine what peaches we were to be with.
I hate to leave you all in suspense as I know this story is a true nail bitter but I must retire to bed. Hopefully, I’ll be back manana with part deuce of the move saga.
Anyway, I have been quite the busy bee since I got up here. It took Sal and I two days of driving and we both made it in one piece. Of course there were quite a few good laughs along the way. Let’s take it back to Aug. 12, 12:30 a.m. We arrive in New York City after a night stay in Savannah, a pit stop in South of the Border, and lets not forget the speeding ticket Sally and I laughed all the way through. I was using Rudolph (my navigation system) to arrive at my final destination (the apartment). We had spent 15 hours driving and all we wanted to do was unloaded the car and sleep. Now you would think, with the help of turn by turn directions, one could arrive at their final destination with no problem. Needless to say, I wound up on the QueensBoro Bridge which was not amusing at that time of the evening. We literally drove pasted my apartment on a bridge.
Despite the set back we laughed all way the over as I am notorious for getting lost with Sally Woo. Skip to the next day. We leave my cousins apartment in Jersey City and head to the store to buy an air conditioner. Note, there are no Wal-Mart’s in New York City. We pretty much spend the better portion of the day shopping. I’ll come back to the air conditioner but first let me digress.
Sally and I are in Target and of course we needed to use the facilities. I leave Sal to do her business and a few minutes later I get a phone call from her. This wasn’t so strange as I figured she wanted to know where I was in the store. But no, she wanted me to buy her a pair of shorts, which I found quite hilarious. Apparently her pantalones were wet because the toilet basically exploded while she was on it. I am of course crying laughing at this point as I purchase a pair of pants and rush them into Sal Gal so she can change.
Now back to the air conditioner. We get back to the city in the afternoon. We are putting the place together and I am working on the air conditioner situation. Sal is busy putting together a table and I am dumb founded at the fact that this air conditioning unit has no directions. (For those of you who don’t know, NYC is very hot in the summer, so you can only imagine how hot an apartment is with no air). I get the unit in the window and come to realize that it doesn’t fit. It is about half the size of the window. I look outside and see other people’s windows with units that have an accordion looking apparatus between the windows so the unit fits the size of it. At this moment, the super, who is not so super, knocks on the door to introduce himself and ask if we need any help.
I say, why yes, and ask him where I can purchase the accordion thing, while I’m pointing at the air conditioner (direct quote). He tells me it comes with the unit. I almost flipped. As he is leaving, he asks if we need any further assistance. We promptly tell him no. Well, he looks at the table Sally is fast at work with and says: “I don’t mean to step on your toes but the legs should be on the outside of the table”. We started cracking up. (It should be noted that up until this weekend, it seemed that God was playing a joke on me and almost ever scenario had a similar ending) Needless to say, we wound up going back to NJ to return the air conditioner. At this point, we had both had it. We were going on no sleep, barely any food, and had previously been in a car for 2 days. You can imagine what peaches we were to be with.
I hate to leave you all in suspense as I know this story is a true nail bitter but I must retire to bed. Hopefully, I’ll be back manana with part deuce of the move saga.
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