This Bachelor has to be the least eloquent man ever to be on the show. The way he dropped Bevin was almost embarrassing (although I was glad he did!). I understand that it has to be a difficult thing to do - to tell a woman who has told you she loves you that you're going to propose to another woman - but I would expect that you might think through what you would say. He fumbled for words, didn't seem to have any idea what to say, and then just stared at her crying for awhile... it was a mess! One other thing.... I would not want the man who proposes to me, the day before he does it, to be saying that he could see himself proposing to another woman too. I would want him to be a little more sure than that.
Monday, May 21, 2007
The Bachelor
This Bachelor has to be the least eloquent man ever to be on the show. The way he dropped Bevin was almost embarrassing (although I was glad he did!). I understand that it has to be a difficult thing to do - to tell a woman who has told you she loves you that you're going to propose to another woman - but I would expect that you might think through what you would say. He fumbled for words, didn't seem to have any idea what to say, and then just stared at her crying for awhile... it was a mess! One other thing.... I would not want the man who proposes to me, the day before he does it, to be saying that he could see himself proposing to another woman too. I would want him to be a little more sure than that.
Sunday, May 06, 2007
VisualDNA
Check out this fun site I found!
So what does this say about me?... Read on.
Mood: Sofisticat - You're romantic in your outlook and love a good fairytale. You're a bit of a dreamer, you've got a great imagination. When it comes to art, you appreciate precision and hard work - real craftsmanship. You appreciate the history of a piece, the story it holds - you are a touch sentimental! As for music, it's the soundtrack to your world. An open road, your favorite tracks - cliches are there to be enjoyed! Your choice of treat reveals either real exhaustion, or a bit of laziness? Either way you're never happier than when you are rugged, and snuggled up, eyes shut.
Fun: Escape Artist - You love to be far away from your everyday life. You love the sun, and like to live life at a slower pace than most - you know how to take things nice and easy! For kicks you like to indulge - treat yourself to whatever you like. After all it is not all the time that you live like this. When it comes to holidays, you reckon they should always be indulgent - a very special treat and chance to recharge your batteries in luxurious surroundings as well as spending quality time with family and friends. What grosses you out? Nobody is perfect but some bad habits aren't acceptable; you realize that health is wealth.
Habits: Junkie Monkey - Even if you have a healthy approach to life, you still have your little vices that keep you going. It is all part of the routine, you're a creature of habit. You're not neurotic about making healthy choices... You've got more of an easy going and carefree approach to your lifestyle... and a sweet tooth too. As for the home, you have very cool and contemporary taste. You have a simple approach to style, but you like things to have their place.
Love: Love Bug - You're a bit of a softie. Love is unconditional and loyal. When you think of freedom, you think of being in charge of your direction. The open road and a full tank can take you pretty much anywhere.
What does your VisualDNA look like?
So what does this say about me?... Read on.
Mood: Sofisticat - You're romantic in your outlook and love a good fairytale. You're a bit of a dreamer, you've got a great imagination. When it comes to art, you appreciate precision and hard work - real craftsmanship. You appreciate the history of a piece, the story it holds - you are a touch sentimental! As for music, it's the soundtrack to your world. An open road, your favorite tracks - cliches are there to be enjoyed! Your choice of treat reveals either real exhaustion, or a bit of laziness? Either way you're never happier than when you are rugged, and snuggled up, eyes shut.
Fun: Escape Artist - You love to be far away from your everyday life. You love the sun, and like to live life at a slower pace than most - you know how to take things nice and easy! For kicks you like to indulge - treat yourself to whatever you like. After all it is not all the time that you live like this. When it comes to holidays, you reckon they should always be indulgent - a very special treat and chance to recharge your batteries in luxurious surroundings as well as spending quality time with family and friends. What grosses you out? Nobody is perfect but some bad habits aren't acceptable; you realize that health is wealth.
Habits: Junkie Monkey - Even if you have a healthy approach to life, you still have your little vices that keep you going. It is all part of the routine, you're a creature of habit. You're not neurotic about making healthy choices... You've got more of an easy going and carefree approach to your lifestyle... and a sweet tooth too. As for the home, you have very cool and contemporary taste. You have a simple approach to style, but you like things to have their place.
Love: Love Bug - You're a bit of a softie. Love is unconditional and loyal. When you think of freedom, you think of being in charge of your direction. The open road and a full tank can take you pretty much anywhere.
What does your VisualDNA look like?
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
I'm a Hokie
So I haven't posted in a long time... not for lack of events or things to write about, more for lack of time, ok, maybe it's motivation, to post. More on me later, I promise (because there was a great vacation with some great pictures since I last posted), but for today - and this week - it feels like there are bigger and more important things to write about.
Not only am I a Badger this week, but I'm a Hokie too.
(At the risk of offering a bit of humor when discussing a terribly sad event, apparently the way freshmen at Virginia Tech are taught to respond when asked what a Hokie is, is by saying "I'm a Hokie." This week that response seems even more fitting.)
From all reports, Blacksburg, Virginia seems to be like any typical college town. The students there love their school, and each other... much like the students at any other campus. I guess that's what makes the tragic events of Monday, April 16th seem even more frightening. It reinforces the idea that crazed gunmen really can show up anywhere. It could happen in Madison. It could happen in Sheboygan. Random crime isn't isolated to big cities with notoriously high crime rates. It can happen to anyone.
Those gunshots hit a young woman, just starting her college career, who loved to dance.
Those gunshots hit a professor in his 70's, who had inspired, taught and advised countless students, and was denied the chance to touch that many more.
Those gunshots hit a 25 year old man, due to graduate from grad school in 3 weeks, who was anticipating starting his career in engineering.
Those gunshots hit a 35 year old German professor, and left behind his wife to go back to work at the same university, likely in the same building, where her husband took his last breath.
Those gunshots hit a middle-aged professor, studying cerebal palsy, and left behind his wife and three children whom he coached in youth sports.
Those gunshots hit 27 other people, who will not be forgotten. One of whom was the gunman himself. While it is easy to villify him, and deservedly so, I can't help but also grieve for him. A 23 year old man who was so lost, and in need of so much help, that he was desperate enough to destroy so many lives. He committed a terrible act, and that should not be forgotten. But there is also so much we should be able to learn from him.
Were mistakes made by police, school administrators, and professors? Possibly. But at this point, let's not get so wrapped up in placing blame or questioning the use of email to issue warnings. There will be plenty of time for those questions, answers, and new policies later. Right now, let's remember the lives that were cut too short.
"We will continue to invent the future through out blood and tears and through our sadness... We are the Hokies..."
-Nikki Giovanni
Not only am I a Badger this week, but I'm a Hokie too.
(At the risk of offering a bit of humor when discussing a terribly sad event, apparently the way freshmen at Virginia Tech are taught to respond when asked what a Hokie is, is by saying "I'm a Hokie." This week that response seems even more fitting.)
From all reports, Blacksburg, Virginia seems to be like any typical college town. The students there love their school, and each other... much like the students at any other campus. I guess that's what makes the tragic events of Monday, April 16th seem even more frightening. It reinforces the idea that crazed gunmen really can show up anywhere. It could happen in Madison. It could happen in Sheboygan. Random crime isn't isolated to big cities with notoriously high crime rates. It can happen to anyone.
Those gunshots hit a young woman, just starting her college career, who loved to dance.
Those gunshots hit a professor in his 70's, who had inspired, taught and advised countless students, and was denied the chance to touch that many more.
Those gunshots hit a 25 year old man, due to graduate from grad school in 3 weeks, who was anticipating starting his career in engineering.
Those gunshots hit a 35 year old German professor, and left behind his wife to go back to work at the same university, likely in the same building, where her husband took his last breath.
Those gunshots hit a middle-aged professor, studying cerebal palsy, and left behind his wife and three children whom he coached in youth sports.
Those gunshots hit 27 other people, who will not be forgotten. One of whom was the gunman himself. While it is easy to villify him, and deservedly so, I can't help but also grieve for him. A 23 year old man who was so lost, and in need of so much help, that he was desperate enough to destroy so many lives. He committed a terrible act, and that should not be forgotten. But there is also so much we should be able to learn from him.
Were mistakes made by police, school administrators, and professors? Possibly. But at this point, let's not get so wrapped up in placing blame or questioning the use of email to issue warnings. There will be plenty of time for those questions, answers, and new policies later. Right now, let's remember the lives that were cut too short.
"We will continue to invent the future through out blood and tears and through our sadness... We are the Hokies..."
-Nikki Giovanni
Monday, February 26, 2007
Sunday, February 25, 2007
We're #1!
In case anyone has been under a rock for the last week.... My Badgers are ranked #1!!! (Ok, yes, I know, they are #2 in the ESPN/USA Today poll, but let me bask in my glory for a minute, or a week.) Go Bucky! Or should I say.... Fuck 'em Bucky!
As I type, they are beating Ohio State. Keep your fingers crossed. More updates throughout the game.
Though he's not my favorite, the polar bear just got hurt!
Did anyone else see that elbow? I know know that you can dislocate an elbow, but it 
looked like they were trying to pop it back in somehow... Poor Brian! :( Tears!! :( :( And they called the block on Brian on the play! That makes it hurt even more. Another Butch note... Krabbenhoft got the start over Brian today.... Way ta go Joe! (I like him better.)Halftime report: Down by 3, but can't complain about that. Mike has to pick it up a little too. Have to like the rebound situation more than last Tuesday though!
Ok, I just lost my satelite signal (probably because of the snow that finally started to fall outside), thus, no game. Until I found it on the local station. That means I'm watching it through shitty reception, but I guess it's better than not seeing it at all.
J Bo has started to turn it on now... "That's the uncousious nature of an 18 year old." Knocking the 3's down! We need that!
Oden can keep turning the ball over too, that's fine with me!
Down by 1 with 2:00 to go... No more blogging until the game is over. I have to watch a little closer!
Sad... :(
Monday, February 19, 2007
Making a difference
A young man walking down the beach observed an old man picking up starfish that had washed up on the shore. As he got closer, he saw the old man throwing them back into the ocean. He approached the old man and asked, "What are you doing?" The old man replied, "If I don't throw the starfish back in the water, they're going to die." "But there must be thousands of beaches, and millions of starfish. You can't save them all. Don't you know you'll never make a difference!" The old man reached down, picked up a starfish, and simply replied, "I'll make a difference to this one."I've come across this story three different times in the past week, in three different places. What does that mean?
Thursday, January 25, 2007
The mourning period for former president Gerald Ford is finally over.You can again fly your flag at the top of the flagpole.
In case you hadn't noticed, flags all over the country were at half staff for 30 days. Why you ask? Because that, apparently, is standard policy for the month-ish following the death of a president.
Don't get me wrong, I'm all for Pres. Ford (well, to be honest, I really don't know that much about him, so maybe I shouldn't say that), but 30 days of mourning, for a guy who was already in his 90's? Doesn't that seem a bit excessive? I could definitely understand if it were a sitting president who died, but I don't know about a former president - who was in office 30 years ago.
Call me insensitive, but it seems like a bit much to me.
In keeping with the flag theme... a "trivia question of the day"... Where is the flag never flown at half-staff? Leave me your guesses... I know of at least two answers - they will be posted in approximately a week.
Sunday, January 14, 2007
A painful past comes rushing back...
The concept of completely eliminating people from one's life seemed foreign to me about 3 years ago. Sure, there had been occasions when I have thought that I'd like to forget about people who have hurt me, but the idea of forgetting a past, and cutting relationships and all ties just doesn't make sense, or really seem all that possible. At least not treating it as if its as simple as the flip of a switch. One day we're friends and share a history. The next we aren't and we don't.
Since then, two people have done just that to me. (Yes, the thought that this has something to do with me has crossed my mind, but I'm not about to get into that now.)
There is a reason I'm bringing this whole topic up today, so stick with me...
1. A guy I dated for a month or two in high school, but remained friends with. The dating thing was never going to work out, but he was a nice guy. Even though he lived on the other side of town, about 2 years after we quit dating, he ended up buying a house a block away from my parents, and moving in with his girlfriend. We ran into each other in the neighborhood on occasion. My brother helped mow his lawn. I was there the day his dog was hit by a car, and drove him to the vet as he made the decision to euthanize her. A few months later, I got an email from him talking about how his relationship with his girlfriend made it impossible for us to remain friends or even talk. A quote from the email, which shocked me so much I don't know that I'll forget it for a long time... "As I no longer want to have to speak your name to anyone, if you see me or my car, please just go on by like I don't exist and I will do the same." As much of a shock as it is to hear something like that, I was lucky enough to have people in my life who could think objectively about it, and realize that the whole situation was absurd and I was better off not having to deal with it, and what a great door he provided me by which to let myself out gracefully.
While hearing things like that is like getting hit in the head with a brick, it was almost easier than this...
2. There was a guy I had been friends with for as long as I could remember... literally. We started going to daycare together when we were three. He was my best friend for a long time. One of those where you can go for months when you talk everyday, and then go for a month without talking, but when you do, it's as if you didn't miss a thing. We went to daycare, elementary, middle, and high school together, and both ended up at the UW, where we remained friends. Until about our third year in school. There was the email he didn't reply to. The phone calls he didn't answer, and voice mails that wouldn't be returned. Then there was the days where we'd walk right past each other on the street or between classes, and it was as if I'd passed a total stranger. This was more of the unspoken end of a relationship, where you never really know what's going on or why it's happening. It's been probably 4 years since we actually talked, after 17 years of solid friendship.
Don't get me wrong here. Neither of these relationships are things that keep me up at night, or that I think about on a daily basis... at least not anymore. Of course, for awhile, it was all I could think about.
In a pretty scary way, both of these guys came rushing back into my life in a small way this weekend, and sadly brought all these feelings of confusion and rejection with them.
Guy 1 came back earlier today, at of all places, a Bridal/Wedding Expo. I had arranged to meet Nicole, mom, and Gina there to plan all things Nicole and Justin. As I was waiting for them outside the entrance, who walks by but 1. with aforementioned girlfriend (apparently now fiance), and two moms. As tempted as I was to walk up to him, introduce myself to her, and catch up with what's been going on the past year and a half, I resisted. It took me awhile to get over having him in my life, and it was so important for me to not let him slip in again anymore than the situation required. Seeing him there was tough enough. Talking, or doing anything stupid would have made things even more difficult. But blogging about the whole thing is a little therapeutic...
About 18 hours earlier, I was going to dinner with my family at Paisans in Madison (the new one for all of you Badgers out there - with University Square being torn down, they moved to Wilson St. and now have a lot more space, the same cool booths, and lake views now! Check it out if you have the chance!). The place was packed, but as we headed into the bar to wait for our table, I saw a table full of familiar faces. Three girls from high school, along with guy 2. It was obvious they saw me walk in, so I knew I had to make a stop at their table and at least say hi, as ackward as it would be. Thankfully the three girls were there, as I was able to keep most of the conversation with them, but was able to make myself look at him twice, and even ask him a question (granted, it was the "what are you doing now?" question that was making its way around the table, and it would have been terribly obvious had I not asked him). I tried to be as graceful as I could, but kept things to a minimum, and quickly made my way back to catching up with my brother... who is someone who as much as he sometimes may want to, I am confident will never forget about me completely.
Strangely, even though the situation with guy 2 was harder, more mind-boggling, and hurt the most when the relationship was ending, it was easier to see him than it was guy 1. Maybe because 2 did hurt so much, I was able to process everything completely, and get through what really is a grieving process, which I may not have totally done with guy 1. That may be exactly why this post was so on my mind, and so necessary....
Since then, two people have done just that to me. (Yes, the thought that this has something to do with me has crossed my mind, but I'm not about to get into that now.)
There is a reason I'm bringing this whole topic up today, so stick with me...
1. A guy I dated for a month or two in high school, but remained friends with. The dating thing was never going to work out, but he was a nice guy. Even though he lived on the other side of town, about 2 years after we quit dating, he ended up buying a house a block away from my parents, and moving in with his girlfriend. We ran into each other in the neighborhood on occasion. My brother helped mow his lawn. I was there the day his dog was hit by a car, and drove him to the vet as he made the decision to euthanize her. A few months later, I got an email from him talking about how his relationship with his girlfriend made it impossible for us to remain friends or even talk. A quote from the email, which shocked me so much I don't know that I'll forget it for a long time... "As I no longer want to have to speak your name to anyone, if you see me or my car, please just go on by like I don't exist and I will do the same." As much of a shock as it is to hear something like that, I was lucky enough to have people in my life who could think objectively about it, and realize that the whole situation was absurd and I was better off not having to deal with it, and what a great door he provided me by which to let myself out gracefully.
While hearing things like that is like getting hit in the head with a brick, it was almost easier than this...
2. There was a guy I had been friends with for as long as I could remember... literally. We started going to daycare together when we were three. He was my best friend for a long time. One of those where you can go for months when you talk everyday, and then go for a month without talking, but when you do, it's as if you didn't miss a thing. We went to daycare, elementary, middle, and high school together, and both ended up at the UW, where we remained friends. Until about our third year in school. There was the email he didn't reply to. The phone calls he didn't answer, and voice mails that wouldn't be returned. Then there was the days where we'd walk right past each other on the street or between classes, and it was as if I'd passed a total stranger. This was more of the unspoken end of a relationship, where you never really know what's going on or why it's happening. It's been probably 4 years since we actually talked, after 17 years of solid friendship.
Don't get me wrong here. Neither of these relationships are things that keep me up at night, or that I think about on a daily basis... at least not anymore. Of course, for awhile, it was all I could think about.
In a pretty scary way, both of these guys came rushing back into my life in a small way this weekend, and sadly brought all these feelings of confusion and rejection with them.
Guy 1 came back earlier today, at of all places, a Bridal/Wedding Expo. I had arranged to meet Nicole, mom, and Gina there to plan all things Nicole and Justin. As I was waiting for them outside the entrance, who walks by but 1. with aforementioned girlfriend (apparently now fiance), and two moms. As tempted as I was to walk up to him, introduce myself to her, and catch up with what's been going on the past year and a half, I resisted. It took me awhile to get over having him in my life, and it was so important for me to not let him slip in again anymore than the situation required. Seeing him there was tough enough. Talking, or doing anything stupid would have made things even more difficult. But blogging about the whole thing is a little therapeutic...
About 18 hours earlier, I was going to dinner with my family at Paisans in Madison (the new one for all of you Badgers out there - with University Square being torn down, they moved to Wilson St. and now have a lot more space, the same cool booths, and lake views now! Check it out if you have the chance!). The place was packed, but as we headed into the bar to wait for our table, I saw a table full of familiar faces. Three girls from high school, along with guy 2. It was obvious they saw me walk in, so I knew I had to make a stop at their table and at least say hi, as ackward as it would be. Thankfully the three girls were there, as I was able to keep most of the conversation with them, but was able to make myself look at him twice, and even ask him a question (granted, it was the "what are you doing now?" question that was making its way around the table, and it would have been terribly obvious had I not asked him). I tried to be as graceful as I could, but kept things to a minimum, and quickly made my way back to catching up with my brother... who is someone who as much as he sometimes may want to, I am confident will never forget about me completely.
Strangely, even though the situation with guy 2 was harder, more mind-boggling, and hurt the most when the relationship was ending, it was easier to see him than it was guy 1. Maybe because 2 did hurt so much, I was able to process everything completely, and get through what really is a grieving process, which I may not have totally done with guy 1. That may be exactly why this post was so on my mind, and so necessary....
Thursday, January 04, 2007
Keeping with the "one a month" blog update trend I have going, here it is for January.
The holidays were fabulous! The family came up for church at Crossroads on Christmas Eve morning (and enjoyed it! Yay!), and then we headed to grandma's and Ann's to celebrate a little Christmas. Overall nothing incredibly exciting (except that 1,400 piece, K-nex rollarcoaster we tried to put together), but it was all just really relaxing. I can't complain. The rest of the week off was pretty good too! Pretty nice perk of working at the Big K!
One other bit of exciting news to report....
The holidays were fabulous! The family came up for church at Crossroads on Christmas Eve morning (and enjoyed it! Yay!), and then we headed to grandma's and Ann's to celebrate a little Christmas. Overall nothing incredibly exciting (except that 1,400 piece, K-nex rollarcoaster we tried to put together), but it was all just really relaxing. I can't complain. The rest of the week off was pretty good too! Pretty nice perk of working at the Big K!
One other bit of exciting news to report....
Nicole and Justin got engaged!
(Only after 7(?) years!)
Congrats guys!
I can't wait for October 6!!
Sunday, December 03, 2006
Finding a place to call home...
I still have trouble calling Sheboygan "home," or thinking about being here 10 years from now, so why not take the quiz that helps you "find your spot," at www.findyourspot.com. Surprisingly, the one place I still consider and call home is not on the list.... Even more surprisingly, not a single city from the state of Wisconsin made the list!
Let me know if you know anything about any of these places. In reverse order....
20. Fargo, North Dakota/Moorhead, Minnesota – I’m embarrassed that Fargo even shows up on this list!
19. Kalamazoo/Battle Creek, Michigan – funny name, but I don’t know much more...
18. Cedar Rapids, Iowa – the “City of Five Seasons” (?)
17. Elkhart-Goshen, Indiana – I think this is the only place on the list I haven’t even heard of, apparently they make bank instruments and RVs here
16. Lincoln, Nebraska – college town, but… could I become a ‘Huskers fan?
15. Bismarck, North Dakota – North Dakota may be worse than Kansas… size of Sheboygan and it’s the largest population center for 200 miles in any direction (wow, not much else out there), don’t think so.
14. Cleveland, Ohio – Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, pro sports teams, bigger than any other city on the list
13. Grand Rapids, Michigan – I’ve heard good things… somewhat close to “home”
12. Omaha, Nebraska – size of the Madison Metro area, college town (x2), museums, the College World Series (yes, I’m a fan of “weird sports”)… I may be able to do Omaha
11. Joplin, Missouri – smaller than Sheboygan, “prime location for retirement” (not yet!), close to Arkansas, Oklahoma, AND Kansas (yikes!)
10. Overland Park, Kansas – … anyone know anything about it?
9. Evansville, Indiana – small town charm, but within 200 miles of St. Louis, Indianapolis, Louisville, and Nashville
8. Kansas City, Missouri – Kansas in the name, but it’s not IN Kansas, major league sports teams, the City of Fountains, and apparently a ton of BBQ restaurants, population of almost 2 million... might be do-able
7. Topeka, Kansas – state capital, but nothing else that is real noteworthy…
6. Sioux Falls, South Dakota – population 120K, ranked as one of the “least stressed” cities, low cost of living, with relatively higher incomes, but I don’t know if I could do South Dakota either
5. Wichita, Kansas – size of Madison Metro area … but it’s Kansas
4. Bloomington, Indiana – small, but a University town (Indiana University)
3. Springfield, Missouri – size of Madison Metro area, Missouri’s “economic and cultural center”
2. Salina, Kansas – smaller than Sheboygan, geographic center of the United States, artsy/agricultural town… but it’s Kansas
1. Columbia, Missouri – halfway between St. Louis and Kansas City, University of Missouri (college town!), population 92K. Supposedly this is the ideal spot for me.... I'm kind of indifferent.
What do you think? Time for me to head out of Wisconsin?
Let me know if you know anything about any of these places. In reverse order....
20. Fargo, North Dakota/Moorhead, Minnesota – I’m embarrassed that Fargo even shows up on this list!
19. Kalamazoo/Battle Creek, Michigan – funny name, but I don’t know much more...
18. Cedar Rapids, Iowa – the “City of Five Seasons” (?)
17. Elkhart-Goshen, Indiana – I think this is the only place on the list I haven’t even heard of, apparently they make bank instruments and RVs here
16. Lincoln, Nebraska – college town, but… could I become a ‘Huskers fan?
15. Bismarck, North Dakota – North Dakota may be worse than Kansas… size of Sheboygan and it’s the largest population center for 200 miles in any direction (wow, not much else out there), don’t think so.
14. Cleveland, Ohio – Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, pro sports teams, bigger than any other city on the list
13. Grand Rapids, Michigan – I’ve heard good things… somewhat close to “home”
12. Omaha, Nebraska – size of the Madison Metro area, college town (x2), museums, the College World Series (yes, I’m a fan of “weird sports”)… I may be able to do Omaha
11. Joplin, Missouri – smaller than Sheboygan, “prime location for retirement” (not yet!), close to Arkansas, Oklahoma, AND Kansas (yikes!)
10. Overland Park, Kansas – … anyone know anything about it?
9. Evansville, Indiana – small town charm, but within 200 miles of St. Louis, Indianapolis, Louisville, and Nashville
8. Kansas City, Missouri – Kansas in the name, but it’s not IN Kansas, major league sports teams, the City of Fountains, and apparently a ton of BBQ restaurants, population of almost 2 million... might be do-able
7. Topeka, Kansas – state capital, but nothing else that is real noteworthy…
6. Sioux Falls, South Dakota – population 120K, ranked as one of the “least stressed” cities, low cost of living, with relatively higher incomes, but I don’t know if I could do South Dakota either
5. Wichita, Kansas – size of Madison Metro area … but it’s Kansas
4. Bloomington, Indiana – small, but a University town (Indiana University)
3. Springfield, Missouri – size of Madison Metro area, Missouri’s “economic and cultural center”
2. Salina, Kansas – smaller than Sheboygan, geographic center of the United States, artsy/agricultural town… but it’s Kansas
1. Columbia, Missouri – halfway between St. Louis and Kansas City, University of Missouri (college town!), population 92K. Supposedly this is the ideal spot for me.... I'm kind of indifferent.
What do you think? Time for me to head out of Wisconsin?
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
Happy Birthday!
Wishin' my brother a Happy 17th Birthday! You know "My Wish" for you - I love you Matt! 17 years ago you were cute enough to take to show and tell in my 2nd grade class. Today I wouldn't take you to a show and tell for being cute, but for being the best brother I could ask for! Hope you have a wonderful birthday - with no balloons at school, but I'll give you some here!
Saturday, November 25, 2006
A strange Thanksgiving
When you think Thanksgiving, you think turkey, stuffing and pumpkin pie. You think of a day spent with the crazy relatives, which is always at least somewhat memorable. This Thanksgiving was memorable for a different reason. There was turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie, but there were no crazy relatives. The crazies definitely exist, but I didn't spend the day with them. My extended family, most of them at least, can't seem to get along well enough to spend a day together lately. So this year, Thanksgiving was spent at home in Madison, with just the four of us.
Please don't take my ranting here to mean that it wasn't a great holiday. We had a great time hanging out in the amazingly warm November weather in Wisconsin. The meal was fabulous, wine was great, time spent together was fun. We put the top on the convertible down, and rode around town for awhile and got some funny looks and a little cold. A stop at the Monona Bait Shop for ice cream topped the ride off. Not your typical, hang out with the cousins, watch a little football (or even play if it's nice enough out), Thanksgiving, but memorable nonetheless. We capped the night with a few board games (I managed to lose every one, no matter who was on my team), and just hanging out together.
Back to the family situation for a bit now... I'm sure there are only a couple members of the above mentioned family who know what a blog is, and even fewer who know that I have one or how to get to it, so this may never get to the intended audience, but here goes anyway. The crap that tends to tear this family apart is getting ridiculous. The hurt feelings, and tear-inducing comments seemed silly at the time, but seem like nothing compared to gossip and rumor spreading that are now causing people to not even be able to see each other for holidays. Enough already. Get over yourself. Life is too hard to let this crap get in the way of some of the relationships that really matter.
Hopefully Christmas will be different...
Please don't take my ranting here to mean that it wasn't a great holiday. We had a great time hanging out in the amazingly warm November weather in Wisconsin. The meal was fabulous, wine was great, time spent together was fun. We put the top on the convertible down, and rode around town for awhile and got some funny looks and a little cold. A stop at the Monona Bait Shop for ice cream topped the ride off. Not your typical, hang out with the cousins, watch a little football (or even play if it's nice enough out), Thanksgiving, but memorable nonetheless. We capped the night with a few board games (I managed to lose every one, no matter who was on my team), and just hanging out together.
Back to the family situation for a bit now... I'm sure there are only a couple members of the above mentioned family who know what a blog is, and even fewer who know that I have one or how to get to it, so this may never get to the intended audience, but here goes anyway. The crap that tends to tear this family apart is getting ridiculous. The hurt feelings, and tear-inducing comments seemed silly at the time, but seem like nothing compared to gossip and rumor spreading that are now causing people to not even be able to see each other for holidays. Enough already. Get over yourself. Life is too hard to let this crap get in the way of some of the relationships that really matter.
Hopefully Christmas will be different...
Monday, November 06, 2006
Monday, October 09, 2006
Slowing Down
It took a long time, but I realized tonight just how rarely I stop and slow down.
Slow down enough to hear myself think.
Slow down enough to realize what I'm feeling.
Slow down enough to realize just what I want, and need in this life.
Slow down enough to hear God talking to me.
Slow down enough to realize how blessed and loved I am.
Today was one of those days where I was going through the motions, seeming like everything was fine, had my schedule for the day in my head, and was just looking forward to getting through it. I could feel my bed calling me all day long, almost counting down the hours until the day was over. What hurts so much now is that I realized how much I missed today. And then thinking more, how much I miss everyday. This mentality of "make it through the day" is so common for me lately, and I dare say not just for me. I got home after getting through the things that "had" to get done (which were really enjoyable, and I shouldn't have been thinking of them that way), and just felt drained. Was bummed. Was angry. Was feeling pretty empty. When I have the mentality of making it through the day, there isn't room for satisfaction, accomplishment, or just plain joy. I was missing all of that, even though it seemed like a good day.
This funk threw me into workout mode, and I found myself down at the Y. I had left the iPod at home, and the televisions, though they were closed-captioned and I could have followed along, weren't catching my attention which I couldn't be more thankful for now. I ended up just talking through things with God and just myself for a good half hour, not realizing that I was running (which is a great side benefit!), and felt some of the tension that had been sitting in my back for days just lift. It was like a weight had physically been taken off my shoulders.
As I walked out to my car in the parking lot just yards from Lake Michigan, I heard the waves rolling over and crashing onto the shore. I smelled the distinctive smell of fall leaves. I felt the chill in the air that made me pull my hands into the sleeves of my coat. All of this was just an awesome reminder of this whole world that exists around me everyday, and can, if I only left it, serve as a constant reminder of just how much I'm loved by an awesome God who made heaven and earth Himself.
It's a comforting reminder on days when I let the world catch up with me. I'm quick to turn on the TV as soon as I get home, so I have some background noise and don't have to deal with the stuff filling my head. I'm quick to turn to the latest book I'm reading, or spreadsheet I'm working on at work, instead of concerning myself with what's really going on in my heart. I'm quick to call the friend who comes to mind first when I'm angry, or upset, or just down rather than turning to God in prayer.
As much of a bummer as what was going on in my head and heart earlier today was, I couldn't be more thankful for the chance it gave me to slow down, catch up with God and myself rather than the world, and start to re-prioritize and re-familiarize myself with what matters.
Slow down enough to hear myself think.
Slow down enough to realize what I'm feeling.
Slow down enough to realize just what I want, and need in this life.
Slow down enough to hear God talking to me.
Slow down enough to realize how blessed and loved I am.
Today was one of those days where I was going through the motions, seeming like everything was fine, had my schedule for the day in my head, and was just looking forward to getting through it. I could feel my bed calling me all day long, almost counting down the hours until the day was over. What hurts so much now is that I realized how much I missed today. And then thinking more, how much I miss everyday. This mentality of "make it through the day" is so common for me lately, and I dare say not just for me. I got home after getting through the things that "had" to get done (which were really enjoyable, and I shouldn't have been thinking of them that way), and just felt drained. Was bummed. Was angry. Was feeling pretty empty. When I have the mentality of making it through the day, there isn't room for satisfaction, accomplishment, or just plain joy. I was missing all of that, even though it seemed like a good day.
This funk threw me into workout mode, and I found myself down at the Y. I had left the iPod at home, and the televisions, though they were closed-captioned and I could have followed along, weren't catching my attention which I couldn't be more thankful for now. I ended up just talking through things with God and just myself for a good half hour, not realizing that I was running (which is a great side benefit!), and felt some of the tension that had been sitting in my back for days just lift. It was like a weight had physically been taken off my shoulders.
As I walked out to my car in the parking lot just yards from Lake Michigan, I heard the waves rolling over and crashing onto the shore. I smelled the distinctive smell of fall leaves. I felt the chill in the air that made me pull my hands into the sleeves of my coat. All of this was just an awesome reminder of this whole world that exists around me everyday, and can, if I only left it, serve as a constant reminder of just how much I'm loved by an awesome God who made heaven and earth Himself.
It's a comforting reminder on days when I let the world catch up with me. I'm quick to turn on the TV as soon as I get home, so I have some background noise and don't have to deal with the stuff filling my head. I'm quick to turn to the latest book I'm reading, or spreadsheet I'm working on at work, instead of concerning myself with what's really going on in my heart. I'm quick to call the friend who comes to mind first when I'm angry, or upset, or just down rather than turning to God in prayer.
As much of a bummer as what was going on in my head and heart earlier today was, I couldn't be more thankful for the chance it gave me to slow down, catch up with God and myself rather than the world, and start to re-prioritize and re-familiarize myself with what matters.
Thursday, October 05, 2006
Father knows best?
For as long as I can remember, my dad has wanted me to become an engineer. He's played the "You're so good at math" card, the "Don't you want to be like your dad?" card, and as often as possible, the "Look at the cool stuff engineers do!" card. I've gotten the emails with pictures of the ski hill in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. I've driven through the Big Dig in Boston, and discussed how the Wisconsin Department of Transportation themself (Dad's employer) was working on the Marquette Interchange in Milwaukee.
I've gotten used to just ignoring the comments about my career choice, but I will admit the stuff he shows me that "engineers do" is normally pretty amazing. Especially this.
http://www.albinoblacksheep.com/flash/honda.php
I've heard that there are no computer graphic or digital tricks in the commercial, and that everything you see really happened, in real time, exactly as you see it. It took 606 takes, $6 million, and 3 months to complete, but is pretty damn cool!
Almost makes me want to be an engineer dad!
I've gotten used to just ignoring the comments about my career choice, but I will admit the stuff he shows me that "engineers do" is normally pretty amazing. Especially this.
http://www.albinoblacksheep.com/flash/honda.php
I've heard that there are no computer graphic or digital tricks in the commercial, and that everything you see really happened, in real time, exactly as you see it. It took 606 takes, $6 million, and 3 months to complete, but is pretty damn cool!
Almost makes me want to be an engineer dad!
Saturday, September 30, 2006
Celebrity Look-Alikes
I'm not real sure how I stumbled upon this site, but it's pretty cool!
http://www.myheritage.com/FP/Company/face-recognition.php
Just upload a photo of yourself, and run the face-recognition program to find your "celebrity look-alikes" - based primarily on facial structure, nothing else, thus Kate Hudson, Laura Bush, and myself look alike in this case. (Check out my profile/collage at the link below!)
http://www.myheritage.com/FP/Company/face-recognition.php
Just upload a photo of yourself, and run the face-recognition program to find your "celebrity look-alikes" - based primarily on facial structure, nothing else, thus Kate Hudson, Laura Bush, and myself look alike in this case. (Check out my profile/collage at the link below!)
My look-alikes (starting with the most alike):
1. Kylie Minogue
2. Kate Hudson
3. Stacey Keibler (of pro-wrestling and Dancing with the Stars fame!)
4. Laura Bush
5. Renee Zellweger (She had me at Hello - I still can't think of her in anything besides Jerry Maguire)
6. Bridget Moynahan
7. Jenna Elfman
8. Kate Bosworth
Check it out and let me know who you look like!
Sunday, September 24, 2006
So it's been a long time
I realize I haven't blogged in forever, and for those devoted readers out there, hopefully you haven't been holding your breath for an update on what's been going on in my life. If you have, I apoligize.... but I may disappoint you again. I feel like I have to give myself a somewhat public lecture for being way too hard on myself in some recent life situations.
I've been giving people who really don't mean that much to me way too much power to influence the way I feel about myself. I've wasted way too much energy on worrying about what these same people think, and being concerned about living up to their expectations, when 1) I'll never be able to do that given that I don't even know what those expectations are, and 2) even if I did, it really wouldn't matter. Granted, these are people who have definitely had a place in my life and heart at some point in the past, and have given me experiences in which I learned about myself, and the way I want my relationships to work. They've taught me valuable lessons, but, for all intents and purposes, have come and gone from my life, yet I let their hold on me remain. The fact that I'm not getting anything from them, but letting them take from me - energy, time, and peace of mind - has weighed heavy on my heart lately, and is definitely the struggle of the day/week.
Thanks for letting me get that out there.
Now for a little fun after being a little hard on myself (in an effort to NOT be so hard on myself), a random poll.
What's the best reality tv show on the air this fall? OR... is the reality tv craze over and you don't care about any of them?
Post your answers in the comment section! My answer (in case anyone cares) after 5 answers have been posted first!
I've been giving people who really don't mean that much to me way too much power to influence the way I feel about myself. I've wasted way too much energy on worrying about what these same people think, and being concerned about living up to their expectations, when 1) I'll never be able to do that given that I don't even know what those expectations are, and 2) even if I did, it really wouldn't matter. Granted, these are people who have definitely had a place in my life and heart at some point in the past, and have given me experiences in which I learned about myself, and the way I want my relationships to work. They've taught me valuable lessons, but, for all intents and purposes, have come and gone from my life, yet I let their hold on me remain. The fact that I'm not getting anything from them, but letting them take from me - energy, time, and peace of mind - has weighed heavy on my heart lately, and is definitely the struggle of the day/week.
Thanks for letting me get that out there.
Now for a little fun after being a little hard on myself (in an effort to NOT be so hard on myself), a random poll.
What's the best reality tv show on the air this fall? OR... is the reality tv craze over and you don't care about any of them?
Post your answers in the comment section! My answer (in case anyone cares) after 5 answers have been posted first!
Thursday, September 07, 2006
Big Sister, Little Sister
I just met my new little sister (through Big Brothers Big Sisters) a couple weeks ago, and have already been having quite a bit of fun with her! Just a few pictures (from our trip to the lake this week - she wants to make a scrapbook! I can't wait!) and a short little editorial on that for now - I'm sure there will be more to come later!
It's an awesome thing to know you're making a difference in the life of a kid who could use it and looks up to you. Not that T. is in a bad situation, just that she can use and appreciates a little more one-on-one attention than she gets at home. It doesn't hurt that she's a pretty cool, outgoing, fun, creative kid too!
It's an awesome thing to know you're making a difference in the life of a kid who could use it and looks up to you. Not that T. is in a bad situation, just that she can use and appreciates a little more one-on-one attention than she gets at home. It doesn't hurt that she's a pretty cool, outgoing, fun, creative kid too!
Monday, September 04, 2006
A brother can make a girl's day
Life has been busy lately, with a new job, a vacation, a new little sister (with Big Brothers Big Sisters! Calm down!), and I'm sure there's more going on, but updates on all that stuff will come eventually. Just a quick post on one of those little things that happened this weekend that just make my day (or a few days even).
I went back to Madison this weekend to see Matt's football game (against West, LaFollette won 21-0!) but didn't get home in time to see him before the game. I'm not sure if he saw be during the game or not, but he definitely saw me after. I was hanging around by the bus waiting for the guys to come out of the locker room with the parents who brought the post game bag lunch stuff, when these big, gross, sweaty football players started streaming out, swarming the coolers looking for food. I wasn't even really paying attention, when one of them started jogging right towards me. My little (ok, he's pretty big) brother, ran right up to me after the game, passing by all the other guys, the parents, even the food, and gave me a huge hug saying hi and thanking me for coming. At that point, the fact that he was soaked in sweat and smelled horrible didn't matter. The fact that he was my brother did. I don't know if he knows how much it meant to me (I think he does - as much as my being there meant to him), but in that moment, my 16 year old brother made my weekend.
Thank you Matt. I love you brother!
-Sister
I went back to Madison this weekend to see Matt's football game (against West, LaFollette won 21-0!) but didn't get home in time to see him before the game. I'm not sure if he saw be during the game or not, but he definitely saw me after. I was hanging around by the bus waiting for the guys to come out of the locker room with the parents who brought the post game bag lunch stuff, when these big, gross, sweaty football players started streaming out, swarming the coolers looking for food. I wasn't even really paying attention, when one of them started jogging right towards me. My little (ok, he's pretty big) brother, ran right up to me after the game, passing by all the other guys, the parents, even the food, and gave me a huge hug saying hi and thanking me for coming. At that point, the fact that he was soaked in sweat and smelled horrible didn't matter. The fact that he was my brother did. I don't know if he knows how much it meant to me (I think he does - as much as my being there meant to him), but in that moment, my 16 year old brother made my weekend.
Thank you Matt. I love you brother!
-Sister
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