Things I've thought about or done in the last few days --
Heard Heraldo Munoz speak (U.S. Ambassador to Chile) about inequality in Latin America.
Realized winter is in full force because my leg hair swings in the breeze. Why shave in winter, what with pants and leggings galore?
Had a fantastic hill run that left me breathless and almost too tired to make it back to school.
Sat outside in 72 degree weather.
Had a scrumptious Valentine's Day meal replete with wine, bread, homemade pea pesto, eggplant lasagna, kale, homemade cream puff pastries and - best of all - my favoritest girls, KS and GC. Couldn't have asked for better dates!
Finished reading Hygiene and the Assasin. Not sure I loved this disturbing, morbid tale. Unique, at least. Now I'm reading Little Bee.
Searched 5 grocery stores in Denver for 7-grain mix. To no avail. Date bread will have to wait until I can resume the search. I don't understand, though, because I've made this bread before in Denver ... which means I found the 7-grain mix somewhere. Riddle me this.
Here's heading into the weekend!
Showing posts with label friends. Show all posts
Showing posts with label friends. Show all posts
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
A day in the life
Things are so good right now, I feel a little freakish walking around smiling all the time. Good freakish. Happy freakish. Here's what things look like...
Monday.
5 a.m. Wake up and run 10 miles. Fresh legs. Listen to NPR and catch up on the news. See hardly anyone. Get home before the sun rises.
7 a.m. Stop off for coffee and happen to know the barista, who is incredibly kind and gives me his discount.
7:30 a.m. - 10 a.m. Prep for being "on call" in Evidence. Surprise Hypo and my argument as defense counsel for an evidentiary issue up on appeal. Right. What does that even mean? Don't these people know I'm totally out of my element and unqualified for these sorts of shenanigans?
10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Evidence Class. I realize my understanding of "informal" is a tad on the casual side, but smile and keep it together. Attempt to make eye contact with my "jury of peers" (Hm. Literally and figuratively.), but realize no one is even paying attention to me and eyes are glued to computers. Feel relieved. Resolve to make eye contact with my professor all semester long, even if that's the most I get out of Evidence class, that I paid attention and made the professor feel as if one student was engaged. Raise typical, idealistic Carrie comments about how my hypothetical client didn't obstruct the Plaintiff's fundamental rights and access to justice.
12 p.m. - 5 p.m. Do my work developing a database of bilateral trade agreements. I'm a paid Research Assistant (and Project Manager (oooh, ahhh)) for a young, hot-shot Latin American professor at the grad school. After I make this database thing I'll start coding, testing hypotheses, and looking for things like clusters and patterns. Exciting! Joined by the lovely KS. Fine! Sheesh, people, I admit it - had another cup of coffee.
5 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. Book the squash court at the gym and practice my serve until my forearm hurts and my fingers are shaky. Approximately half an hour. Shower.
6:30 - 7:30 p.m. Scarf down dinner brought from home, attempting to save money. Ate delicious Trader Joe's indian fare an east coast friend shipped in a care package. (Hint Hint to all you loyal bloggie readers!)
7:30 p.m. - 9 p.m. Int'l Business Transactions class. Figure out how I can multi-task and use my time wisely while listening in class.
9 - 11:30 p.m. Meet les amies GC and KS for a drinkie-drink at a dive bar. What are the chances -- it's karaoke night! Some people just have all the luck. Eat delicious nachos and sweet potato fries. Talk about boys (naturally) and school. Make plans to go dancing.
11:30 p.m. - 12:00 a.m. Walk home feeling ridiculously happy with my life right now.
12:00 - 12:30 a.m. Characteristic dicking around because I can never go straight to sleep when I get home.
12:30 a.m. The moment I've been waiting for, glorious sleep.
Monday.
5 a.m. Wake up and run 10 miles. Fresh legs. Listen to NPR and catch up on the news. See hardly anyone. Get home before the sun rises.
7 a.m. Stop off for coffee and happen to know the barista, who is incredibly kind and gives me his discount.
7:30 a.m. - 10 a.m. Prep for being "on call" in Evidence. Surprise Hypo and my argument as defense counsel for an evidentiary issue up on appeal. Right. What does that even mean? Don't these people know I'm totally out of my element and unqualified for these sorts of shenanigans?
10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Evidence Class. I realize my understanding of "informal" is a tad on the casual side, but smile and keep it together. Attempt to make eye contact with my "jury of peers" (Hm. Literally and figuratively.), but realize no one is even paying attention to me and eyes are glued to computers. Feel relieved. Resolve to make eye contact with my professor all semester long, even if that's the most I get out of Evidence class, that I paid attention and made the professor feel as if one student was engaged. Raise typical, idealistic Carrie comments about how my hypothetical client didn't obstruct the Plaintiff's fundamental rights and access to justice.
12 p.m. - 5 p.m. Do my work developing a database of bilateral trade agreements. I'm a paid Research Assistant (and Project Manager (oooh, ahhh)) for a young, hot-shot Latin American professor at the grad school. After I make this database thing I'll start coding, testing hypotheses, and looking for things like clusters and patterns. Exciting! Joined by the lovely KS. Fine! Sheesh, people, I admit it - had another cup of coffee.
5 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. Book the squash court at the gym and practice my serve until my forearm hurts and my fingers are shaky. Approximately half an hour. Shower.
6:30 - 7:30 p.m. Scarf down dinner brought from home, attempting to save money. Ate delicious Trader Joe's indian fare an east coast friend shipped in a care package. (Hint Hint to all you loyal bloggie readers!)
7:30 p.m. - 9 p.m. Int'l Business Transactions class. Figure out how I can multi-task and use my time wisely while listening in class.
9 - 11:30 p.m. Meet les amies GC and KS for a drinkie-drink at a dive bar. What are the chances -- it's karaoke night! Some people just have all the luck. Eat delicious nachos and sweet potato fries. Talk about boys (naturally) and school. Make plans to go dancing.
11:30 p.m. - 12:00 a.m. Walk home feeling ridiculously happy with my life right now.
12:00 - 12:30 a.m. Characteristic dicking around because I can never go straight to sleep when I get home.
12:30 a.m. The moment I've been waiting for, glorious sleep.
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Philly
Back in Philly. It really feels like I just posted that I was in town for my friend's wedding, but that was way back in May! I've had a summer and a fall since then. I just love this city. It has charm, grit, a feeling of excitement, motion, and adventure. Sadly, I noticed the light balls in Rittenhouse Sq. are not up! I'll have to investigate.
When I got off the bus, I knew right where I was and just started walking through the city West to get to campus. Despite the 23 degree weather and carrying my bag, I wanted to walk. I wanted to save money, but mainly I wanted to walk because I would be passing through the city. It feels great to land in almost any city along the east coast and know my way around. Something about the independence of travel, just me and my small bag (I'm notorious for packing light) - it enlivens me. I feel empowered and connected to the world - connecting both to places and to people.
Off to the more adventures in this next stop I'm making on the long way home...
When I got off the bus, I knew right where I was and just started walking through the city West to get to campus. Despite the 23 degree weather and carrying my bag, I wanted to walk. I wanted to save money, but mainly I wanted to walk because I would be passing through the city. It feels great to land in almost any city along the east coast and know my way around. Something about the independence of travel, just me and my small bag (I'm notorious for packing light) - it enlivens me. I feel empowered and connected to the world - connecting both to places and to people.
Off to the more adventures in this next stop I'm making on the long way home...
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Be more
I've returned east, to grey skies, humidity, and fast walkers. Had a lovely weekend in Baltimore with a friend - dinner, drinks, movie, runs, paper-writing. I'm closing in on the paper ("edits" and blueblook citations left). Right now I'm in Penn Sta. waiting for the train, which is of course late. Looking forward to time with Grandma and my sister and her husband. I'm inches away from true vacation...
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
No excuses...
...just results.
I have been a terrible bloggie-er this month. It's tough with the traveling, moving, starting school, homework, trying to work out. Okay. Enough excuses. Without further delay:
My classes seem pretty good so far. I am trying to do extra (as in, "outside," not "additional") work like finding and applying for fellowships, a MA thesis, writing my own recommendation from my summer internship, and writing a case note to be published. I like to do as much work up-front and as early as possible in the semester if I can. I hate the sprint and rush to do everything at the end of the semester. I try to avoid that at all costs. I'm not sure I'm doing a good job, though, because all these extra things keep popping up.
I'm also in the middle of moving. Literally. I moved most of my things, but realized there were substantial/numerous issues with my newly-signed-lease apartment. I didn't want to finish moving my stuff and a natural gas smell made me nervous even to sleep there. So, my things are in my new apartment but my bed and ME (sleeping) are in the old apartment. I have to shower at the gym and eat out because I don't even have a shower curtain or any kitchenware in the kitchen. I can't even read in bed because there is only a light in the kitchen and in the bathroom, not the studio room. I basically get up early and leave for the day. I stay out as late as possible and literally go to bed the second I get home. It's all very unsettling and I wish things would be resolved quickly.
Some good things going on? Um. Um. Um. I'm reading Cradle of Gold written by my dear friend, Chris Heaney. I love the book, love reading the products of his hard work, and I love knowing my friend better.
I have been a terrible bloggie-er this month. It's tough with the traveling, moving, starting school, homework, trying to work out. Okay. Enough excuses. Without further delay:
My classes seem pretty good so far. I am trying to do extra (as in, "outside," not "additional") work like finding and applying for fellowships, a MA thesis, writing my own recommendation from my summer internship, and writing a case note to be published. I like to do as much work up-front and as early as possible in the semester if I can. I hate the sprint and rush to do everything at the end of the semester. I try to avoid that at all costs. I'm not sure I'm doing a good job, though, because all these extra things keep popping up.
I'm also in the middle of moving. Literally. I moved most of my things, but realized there were substantial/numerous issues with my newly-signed-lease apartment. I didn't want to finish moving my stuff and a natural gas smell made me nervous even to sleep there. So, my things are in my new apartment but my bed and ME (sleeping) are in the old apartment. I have to shower at the gym and eat out because I don't even have a shower curtain or any kitchenware in the kitchen. I can't even read in bed because there is only a light in the kitchen and in the bathroom, not the studio room. I basically get up early and leave for the day. I stay out as late as possible and literally go to bed the second I get home. It's all very unsettling and I wish things would be resolved quickly.
Some good things going on? Um. Um.
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Small World story
So, there I was this morning on my way to my grandmother's for lunch and an afternoon visit. It was actually raining out this morning, a welcome change from the oppressively hot, humid D.C. weather. I made a quick stop off at the Firehook Bakery because I like to bring little cookie and scone treats for Grandma (she needs fattening up!). Of course I was running a little late, as usual, when I ran down the stopped escalator down to red line at Dupont. I get into the train, which is surprisingly packed for a weekend. I figure I'll try to get a seat somewhere in the middle because I'm going all the way to the last stop and won't need to push through to get off mid-way. I excuse myself to get by the crowd. Well! I see one empty seat - lucky me - and beeline toward it. Next to the empty seat is an attractive, my-age-ish guy who is smiling at me and patting the seat. He looks at me and says, "There's a seat for you right here" ... it was my friend, Max! Max is the high school friend of my dearest college friend. They went to high school together in Israel. He was born in Egypt, lived everywhere, does International Development theater work and last was living in Sudan. I last saw him about a month ago at our mutual dear friend's wedding in Philadelphia. Turns out, he was just here in town for the weekend or something and was going to some theater plays his friends were in. How crazy is that! We happened to be in the same city, going in the same direction, on the same train, in the same car at the same time. Small world. He said he lives "nowhere" now, was just working on a farm in PA for awhile and is possibly heading back to Sudan soon.
On one hand, I felt like, See! I have so many friends here in the city that I "run into" people randomly. Of course, it was especially nice to run into Max. I always have a particular soft spot for Max because he is such a good friend of my dear friend. I also partly have a soft spot for Max because he and I seem to have similar careers and lifestyles. But, on the other hand, somehow there was something about running into Max that made me pensive and feel a bit sad. As if, out of the whole city, the only person I know is a chance encounter with a friend of a friend. Both of us just passing each other by. We have just 3 stops together before one of us is off in another direction again. And, neither of us actually has a permanent life here, or really anywhere. It was all so quick. Pretty much like all of the times I've been around Max, there was not (will there ever be?) enough time to get to talk about the real things in life.
Isn't that weird, though? Running into someone I know made me feel independent in a small world, and yet immensely alone in a large world. Who knows, maybe it was just the dreary Saturday morning rain...
On one hand, I felt like, See! I have so many friends here in the city that I "run into" people randomly. Of course, it was especially nice to run into Max. I always have a particular soft spot for Max because he is such a good friend of my dear friend. I also partly have a soft spot for Max because he and I seem to have similar careers and lifestyles. But, on the other hand, somehow there was something about running into Max that made me pensive and feel a bit sad. As if, out of the whole city, the only person I know is a chance encounter with a friend of a friend. Both of us just passing each other by. We have just 3 stops together before one of us is off in another direction again. And, neither of us actually has a permanent life here, or really anywhere. It was all so quick. Pretty much like all of the times I've been around Max, there was not (will there ever be?) enough time to get to talk about the real things in life.
Isn't that weird, though? Running into someone I know made me feel independent in a small world, and yet immensely alone in a large world. Who knows, maybe it was just the dreary Saturday morning rain...
Sunday, June 6, 2010
B'more
Went to Baltimore today to visit a friend who I haven't seen in years. So good to see her, and fun to explore Baltimore a little. We went to lunch at Golden West and ate delicious food. We saw her cute apartment and went to this awesome place called "Book Thing." It's basically like an entire used bookstore, but they are free! It was awesome. I got:
Baudelaire, Les Fleurs du Mal et autres poemes
Uris, Armageddon
L'Engle, The Irrational Season
some book on U.S. policy in Latin America
free, people, FREE.
We unfortunately got a flat tire and had to wait for AAA to help us out. I ended up taking Amtrak back to D.C., which took a wee bit of time and I didn't get back early enough to go to the gym, as planned. Darn it!
I heard this conversation on the train:
Old Man: Are you a student?
Girl: Yes!
Old Man: I'm a teacher.
Girl: Really? Where?
Old Man: Princeton.
Girl: COOL! That's, like, awesome!
Baudelaire, Les Fleurs du Mal et autres poemes
Uris, Armageddon
L'Engle, The Irrational Season
some book on U.S. policy in Latin America
free, people, FREE.
We unfortunately got a flat tire and had to wait for AAA to help us out. I ended up taking Amtrak back to D.C., which took a wee bit of time and I didn't get back early enough to go to the gym, as planned. Darn it!
I heard this conversation on the train:
Old Man: Are you a student?
Girl: Yes!
Old Man: I'm a teacher.
Girl: Really? Where?
Old Man: Princeton.
Girl: COOL! That's, like, awesome!
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Saturday of nothing
Okay, it was not a Saturday of nothing, but I saw someone this morning with a yellow, 80s-ish tee-shirt that said, "My Saturday of Nothing Tee-shirt" and I thought that was a pretty darn good idea. I couldn't have a nothing Saturday today, but I'm definitely doing it next weekend. Who's in!?
What'd I do? I finished my paper! It's probably not, no wait, I know it's not so good. But, at this point I don't really care.
I skyped Charlie who is now in a subsidized apartment in NYC. Coolness! It was really pretty special getting to see him eat his cereal, especially with the occasional freeze screen. Good stuff.
Anyway, then I rushed off to the Metro and took it all the way to the end. From there I caught a bus and got off in random-land suburbia. I walked 1/2 a mile to my grandma's and showed up smiling, sweaty and received with open door before I even walked up the driveway. Seriously, how did she know I was there? We did chores. (She told me what to do and I did it.) We lunched. I cleaned. We chatted. Goodness, sometimes I just get overcome by emotion! She said something to the effect of "I still talk to Grandpa sometimes, I know that sounds crazy!" and then "I have his Redskins jersey sitting out and I like to touch it and remember Grandpa." Ohhhh, so sad. How does one pull it together to get on with life after losing the person who has been your love, your companion, your best friend, your in-it-together-for-life partner for over 60 years?
On the bus back I sat next to this African guy who had the longest legs. Ever. I swear. The length of my hip to my knee was half of the length of his hip to knee.
I got back and tried to take a nap (humidity + motion induced sleepiness) but couldn't sleep mid-day. I don't do naps. Put in some laundry and meandered over to the gym. I took my time, for once. No paper to write. No study or reading to do. No plans. No nothin'. I loved it!
Actually, I haven't seen any friends all week. I've just seen work people at work (all of whom I met just 4 days ago). Kind of weird to think about that. I'm not lonely, just basking in my ME time to do what I want, when I want. I think I'll live in anonymity a little while longer before I jump into the D.C. world, trying to meet people and learn the city. By the way, I did get 2 lovely pieces of mail from Denver friends -- a card and 2 pairs of running shorts. Lucky me! I have such good friends. :)
Finished off the night by making some Brown Rice, Spinach, and Squash Gatin. It'll make for good lunches. Ah, my Saturday of nothing really was pretty darn good.
What'd I do? I finished my paper! It's probably not, no wait, I know it's not so good. But, at this point I don't really care.
I skyped Charlie who is now in a subsidized apartment in NYC. Coolness! It was really pretty special getting to see him eat his cereal, especially with the occasional freeze screen. Good stuff.
Anyway, then I rushed off to the Metro and took it all the way to the end. From there I caught a bus and got off in random-land suburbia. I walked 1/2 a mile to my grandma's and showed up smiling, sweaty and received with open door before I even walked up the driveway. Seriously, how did she know I was there? We did chores. (She told me what to do and I did it.) We lunched. I cleaned. We chatted. Goodness, sometimes I just get overcome by emotion! She said something to the effect of "I still talk to Grandpa sometimes, I know that sounds crazy!" and then "I have his Redskins jersey sitting out and I like to touch it and remember Grandpa." Ohhhh, so sad. How does one pull it together to get on with life after losing the person who has been your love, your companion, your best friend, your in-it-together-for-life partner for over 60 years?
On the bus back I sat next to this African guy who had the longest legs. Ever. I swear. The length of my hip to my knee was half of the length of his hip to knee.
I got back and tried to take a nap (humidity + motion induced sleepiness) but couldn't sleep mid-day. I don't do naps. Put in some laundry and meandered over to the gym. I took my time, for once. No paper to write. No study or reading to do. No plans. No nothin'. I loved it!
Actually, I haven't seen any friends all week. I've just seen work people at work (all of whom I met just 4 days ago). Kind of weird to think about that. I'm not lonely, just basking in my ME time to do what I want, when I want. I think I'll live in anonymity a little while longer before I jump into the D.C. world, trying to meet people and learn the city. By the way, I did get 2 lovely pieces of mail from Denver friends -- a card and 2 pairs of running shorts. Lucky me! I have such good friends. :)
Finished off the night by making some Brown Rice, Spinach, and Squash Gatin. It'll make for good lunches. Ah, my Saturday of nothing really was pretty darn good.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
photo update
The adorable Rita at the wedding of our Penn friends, Ariel and Sam, in Nashville. Lots of wildflowers, humidity, blue grass music, thunderstorm, and good Southern soul food.
Holding Andi and Uti's new baby, Kai, as he sleeps away. I swear, he couldn't fall asleep unless you were hugging him. I was up for the task.
Andi and Uti's 3 year old, Oni. She's modeling (hence the hand on cheek).
Beautiful bride, Adi, at her wedding in Philadelphia! Fun wedding with Israeli music, dancing, vegan and vegetarian food, and interesting medly of international guests.
My good, old friend Peter and my new friend (his bride), Dara at their wedding in March. She changed out of her white bridal dress into a traditional red Chinese outfit. The ceremony and reception were at the Asian gardens of the Jacksonville Zoo in Florida.
Holding Andi and Uti's new baby, Kai, as he sleeps away. I swear, he couldn't fall asleep unless you were hugging him. I was up for the task.
Andi and Uti's 3 year old, Oni. She's modeling (hence the hand on cheek).
Beautiful bride, Adi, at her wedding in Philadelphia! Fun wedding with Israeli music, dancing, vegan and vegetarian food, and interesting medly of international guests.
My good, old friend Peter and my new friend (his bride), Dara at their wedding in March. She changed out of her white bridal dress into a traditional red Chinese outfit. The ceremony and reception were at the Asian gardens of the Jacksonville Zoo in Florida.
Monday, May 31, 2010
Back in D.C.
Hi all!
Made it through wedding season. I had such a nice time at both weddings and seeing all my wonderful friends. How fun! I am so lucky to have such smart, interesting, thoughtful, pun-y and funny friends. We laughed a lot. The wedding in Nashville was just delightful with a live blue grass band, wildflowers, soul food, and a thunderstorm outside our lantern-lit tent. I had the honor of being a bridesmaid and of reading the seven Jewish blessings. I loved being a part of the celebration.
I have just one paper left and I start my internship tomorrow. I suppose I'll actually start exploring D.C. this weekend or next week when I'm done with the paper. Sigh. I feels like summer but I'm just not quite there, yet. Anyone know anything about how China and Islamic empires are similar, even though China didn't really have religion and Islamic empire did? Submit answers within. I'll footnote you!
One quick story - on the plane home today, Memorial Day, Southwest said a few words of praise for the military and then let any military persons off the plane first as a show of gratitude. A thin, fit woman was the only one who walked off. Then, after she got off, someone on the plane (who, I kid you not, could not buckle his seat belt because his belly/gut was so big) said, "I bet she was just a military brat and just followed daddy around." I could not believe it! Some people are so rude and inappropriate (and insecure?) that they have to disrespect others like that. I was truly ashamed for this man, especially because of how quickly I felt shamed in stark contrast to how proud and impressed I felt when I saw this woman walk off the plane on her day of honor. Really, people? I wish I knew I should have said and then I wish I had the guts to have said it.
What would you have said? In all honesty: is there an appropriate, respectful remark I could have made? Leave me a comment!
Made it through wedding season. I had such a nice time at both weddings and seeing all my wonderful friends. How fun! I am so lucky to have such smart, interesting, thoughtful, pun-y and funny friends. We laughed a lot. The wedding in Nashville was just delightful with a live blue grass band, wildflowers, soul food, and a thunderstorm outside our lantern-lit tent. I had the honor of being a bridesmaid and of reading the seven Jewish blessings. I loved being a part of the celebration.
I have just one paper left and I start my internship tomorrow. I suppose I'll actually start exploring D.C. this weekend or next week when I'm done with the paper. Sigh. I feels like summer but I'm just not quite there, yet. Anyone know anything about how China and Islamic empires are similar, even though China didn't really have religion and Islamic empire did? Submit answers within. I'll footnote you!
One quick story - on the plane home today, Memorial Day, Southwest said a few words of praise for the military and then let any military persons off the plane first as a show of gratitude. A thin, fit woman was the only one who walked off. Then, after she got off, someone on the plane (who, I kid you not, could not buckle his seat belt because his belly/gut was so big) said, "I bet she was just a military brat and just followed daddy around." I could not believe it! Some people are so rude and inappropriate (and insecure?) that they have to disrespect others like that. I was truly ashamed for this man, especially because of how quickly I felt shamed in stark contrast to how proud and impressed I felt when I saw this woman walk off the plane on her day of honor. Really, people? I wish I knew I should have said and then I wish I had the guts to have said it.
What would you have said? In all honesty: is there an appropriate, respectful remark I could have made? Leave me a comment!
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Next stop...
In Nashville, stay tuned for more. One thing I have noticed, I see the U.S. Census people ev-er-y-where! I think that's pretty cool. Solidarity. Jobs for the people by the people. On the ground mobilization, organizing, and communities getting to know each other. I like it. So far I've seen them in Denver, D.C., Philly, and now in Nashville. Same little U.S. Census briefcase bags and groups of people working with pencils and bubble sheets.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
friends!
Just a quick update to say that mainly my time has been spent with friends, the friends' families, and friend's babies. I had such a lovely time at A&M's wedding. So cool! I was her Chumerit - Jewish guardian. I spent the entire day with her through the hair, make-up, dress, setting up, breaking down. Really, her family treated me as another sibling and were just wonderful. The wedding itself defied a lot of American traditions - bride and groom saw each other a lot before the ceremony, it was in a large loft-like space (worked perfectly!), had appetizers and a buffet, no meat, lots of vegan food (red quinoa, hummos, cheeses, veggies, salads, avocado on multi-grain sandwiches), Israeli music and other shows of their personality. Also, there were cool wedding guests who flew in from all over the world. I had a great time. I feel so lucky because I am equally friends with the bride and groom. And, after the whole shebang was over, I got to see them the next day, just the 3 of us, for dinner and left over champagne.
I've also been staying with A&U (and O and K). K is 3 weeks old and just so cuddly and cute. I don't have the goods to make him happy (milk) but I can trick him long enough until A can feed him. And, he'll sleep on anybody all curled up like a little frog. O is a good big sister. We're sharing a room so far. It's been pretty fun dancing, eating, playing, reading with her. It's constant energy and a lot of talking. I've always loved kids, but now I'm slowly feeling more confident with little toddlers, babies and newborns. I no longer have that panicky, "Ah, I have no idea what to do with a baby! What if it starts crying?" type of feeling. I definitely don't always know what to do and can't always stop the crying, but it feels less foreign now. Baaaabies are cute.
I've been outlining my exam on technology as a way toward new utopian vision of human rights. Uh huh, that's right. I don't know what it really means either, just trying to use the language I know my teacher wants us to use. Ick. Hope that gets written somehow.
I've also been staying with A&U (and O and K). K is 3 weeks old and just so cuddly and cute. I don't have the goods to make him happy (milk) but I can trick him long enough until A can feed him. And, he'll sleep on anybody all curled up like a little frog. O is a good big sister. We're sharing a room so far. It's been pretty fun dancing, eating, playing, reading with her. It's constant energy and a lot of talking. I've always loved kids, but now I'm slowly feeling more confident with little toddlers, babies and newborns. I no longer have that panicky, "Ah, I have no idea what to do with a baby! What if it starts crying?" type of feeling. I definitely don't always know what to do and can't always stop the crying, but it feels less foreign now. Baaaabies are cute.
I've been outlining my exam on technology as a way toward new utopian vision of human rights. Uh huh, that's right. I don't know what it really means either, just trying to use the language I know my teacher wants us to use. Ick. Hope that gets written somehow.
Saturday, May 22, 2010
May flowers
Here I sit at a vegan-only cafe in Philly with the hippest of the hipsters and the punkiest of the punks. I have let the bloggie fall to the wayside with the understanding that I would be blogging daily again in the summer. I'm not done with my Quarter work (1 paper, 1 final left), but I've left Denver, not to return until mid-August. The past Quarter was especially hard - law school politics and slaps in the face, grad school politics and less-than-stellar professors, and my internship took a turn for the worst. I have been battling plantar fasciitis and heel spur, so running has been iffy, slow, and painful, if at all. I haven't been dating or meeting anyone. All meals have been pretty much alone and, well, all of Denver has been pretty lonely. All told, I'm pretty much ready for a break from Denver and school.
... Thus! I'm in D.C. for the summer doing an internship. My generous friend, Elizabeth, has kindly let me stay in her Dupont Circle one bedroom place for the summer. It's a beautiful apartment with a twelfth floor view of the city, matching red kitchenware and plenty of books on Latin America. The JCC is across the street and gives 35% off to students. Monty, a big black woman - perhaps not Jewish? - sits at the front desk and takes good care of me. Work is 1 mile away (hellooo showing up sweaty to work!), and I'm excited to start on June 1. More on that later. For now, I hopped on a bus up to Philly for my dear friends' wedding. I'll be here playing with Andi, Uti and Oni (3 yrs) and Kai (4 weeks) for the week, while also working on my paper. Then, I head to Nashville to see Jessica and celebrate Ariel and Sam's wedding.
It feels so good to be back on the east coast. My mind can stop constantly figuring out what time it is ET. My hair is back to true curly with the humidity. There are black people around, and Indians, and Asians, and even white peo who look different from each other. There are people down the street who I want to look in the eyes, talk to, and smile at. I don't feel stressed, even though there are school things to do still.
I will miss the ability to hop on my Italo, my bike, and go for a 60 mile ride. I'll miss meeting Katie on the Platte for a quick 2 hour ride. I'll miss the births of 3 of my friends' babies. I'll miss dry, sunny trail runs until 9 p.m. and bananagrams at St. Marks with Tony and Gracie. I will miss those things. But, I'm looking forward to rejuvenating myself -- will I get to a point where I am excited to be back in Denver, where I feel proud again to be a DU student? I'll just have to see where I will be in 3 months. For now, I am pretty happy to be somewhere new, to be myself, and to be far away from Denver.
... Thus! I'm in D.C. for the summer doing an internship. My generous friend, Elizabeth, has kindly let me stay in her Dupont Circle one bedroom place for the summer. It's a beautiful apartment with a twelfth floor view of the city, matching red kitchenware and plenty of books on Latin America. The JCC is across the street and gives 35% off to students. Monty, a big black woman - perhaps not Jewish? - sits at the front desk and takes good care of me. Work is 1 mile away (hellooo showing up sweaty to work!), and I'm excited to start on June 1. More on that later. For now, I hopped on a bus up to Philly for my dear friends' wedding. I'll be here playing with Andi, Uti and Oni (3 yrs) and Kai (4 weeks) for the week, while also working on my paper. Then, I head to Nashville to see Jessica and celebrate Ariel and Sam's wedding.
It feels so good to be back on the east coast. My mind can stop constantly figuring out what time it is ET. My hair is back to true curly with the humidity. There are black people around, and Indians, and Asians, and even white peo who look different from each other. There are people down the street who I want to look in the eyes, talk to, and smile at. I don't feel stressed, even though there are school things to do still.
I will miss the ability to hop on my Italo, my bike, and go for a 60 mile ride. I'll miss meeting Katie on the Platte for a quick 2 hour ride. I'll miss the births of 3 of my friends' babies. I'll miss dry, sunny trail runs until 9 p.m. and bananagrams at St. Marks with Tony and Gracie. I will miss those things. But, I'm looking forward to rejuvenating myself -- will I get to a point where I am excited to be back in Denver, where I feel proud again to be a DU student? I'll just have to see where I will be in 3 months. For now, I am pretty happy to be somewhere new, to be myself, and to be far away from Denver.
Monday, February 8, 2010
Made it through
Monday.
What a doozy.
My brain is pretty mushy right now, but I wanted to reflect on something (anything). Stagnant blogs are boring.
I went to a cool cafe here in Denver last weekend. Illegal Grounds. They had H&H bagels (!), good egg and cheese, Italian Illy coffee, empanadas and quiches. De-licious. Good atmosphere with open space, comfy chairs and couches. Free wireless. A friend and I sat, shared food, chatted and watched the snow fall before getting some homework done. The owner is a Peruvian-Jew! How crazy is that? It made me so happy that - for once - he didn't think my Spanish accent was from Spain. He knew exactly where I learned Spanish, "Ah! Tu hablas como los serranos!" You speak like the mountain people! My friend and I are going back sometime for some homemade ceviche. Mmmm! Buena onda...
Anyway, a quick update, but better than nothing. Off to bed for me, snow falling softly through the street lights.
What a doozy.
My brain is pretty mushy right now, but I wanted to reflect on something (anything). Stagnant blogs are boring.
I went to a cool cafe here in Denver last weekend. Illegal Grounds. They had H&H bagels (!), good egg and cheese, Italian Illy coffee, empanadas and quiches. De-licious. Good atmosphere with open space, comfy chairs and couches. Free wireless. A friend and I sat, shared food, chatted and watched the snow fall before getting some homework done. The owner is a Peruvian-Jew! How crazy is that? It made me so happy that - for once - he didn't think my Spanish accent was from Spain. He knew exactly where I learned Spanish, "Ah! Tu hablas como los serranos!" You speak like the mountain people! My friend and I are going back sometime for some homemade ceviche. Mmmm! Buena onda...
Anyway, a quick update, but better than nothing. Off to bed for me, snow falling softly through the street lights.
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Weekend recap
I let the bloggie slip for a week. Opa! Here are a few highlights from this past weekend:
1. The perfect bite? I met a friend for lunch at the Hornet, a restaurant just a few blocks away that I had never been to before. I pass it every time I take the bus, so I've been curious about it for awhile. I got an Ahi tuna wrap sandwich with some mango salsa and avocado all mushed in there. It came with sweet potato fries, too. Pretty delicious.
2. I went out Saturday night for a friend's surprise party organized by her husband. It made me so happy to see her so thrilled. She really was surprised and kept saying, "I can't believe you all came here just for me. Thank you so much for coming!" Adorable.
3. Face it or not (ahem, anyone remember Birthright trip 2008?), I actually got a little tipsy on Saturday night! Perhaps it was the fact that I started off by getting a FREE cocktail? Or the fact that I got myself second one, or maybe it was the next two drinks? Ha! I was just having a good time, totally in control, but relaxing a bit more than usual. I ended the night perfectly by taking a cab home and having a really nice conversation in Spanish with my Cuban driver. Seriously, I always get the coolest cab drivers!
4. Driving home from the grocery store I saw my friend walking her dog! I honked, waved and pulled over. With groceries still in the car, I parked and went for a walk with her and her dog, Max. Moments and happen-upons like that make me feel like I'm starting to have a community here, learn Denver, and connect with good people.
1. The perfect bite? I met a friend for lunch at the Hornet, a restaurant just a few blocks away that I had never been to before. I pass it every time I take the bus, so I've been curious about it for awhile. I got an Ahi tuna wrap sandwich with some mango salsa and avocado all mushed in there. It came with sweet potato fries, too. Pretty delicious.
2. I went out Saturday night for a friend's surprise party organized by her husband. It made me so happy to see her so thrilled. She really was surprised and kept saying, "I can't believe you all came here just for me. Thank you so much for coming!" Adorable.
3. Face it or not (ahem, anyone remember Birthright trip 2008?), I actually got a little tipsy on Saturday night! Perhaps it was the fact that I started off by getting a FREE cocktail? Or the fact that I got myself second one, or maybe it was the next two drinks? Ha! I was just having a good time, totally in control, but relaxing a bit more than usual. I ended the night perfectly by taking a cab home and having a really nice conversation in Spanish with my Cuban driver. Seriously, I always get the coolest cab drivers!
4. Driving home from the grocery store I saw my friend walking her dog! I honked, waved and pulled over. With groceries still in the car, I parked and went for a walk with her and her dog, Max. Moments and happen-upons like that make me feel like I'm starting to have a community here, learn Denver, and connect with good people.
Saturday, January 2, 2010
Happy 2010!
Happy New Year!
Break has been wonderful! Spent some time on the Cape. I saw some high school friends, but mainly just spent time with the family. Had a few days back in Denver, then up to Montana for a skiing New Years with college friend and her family. Loved it! I feel so lucky to be where I am right now and to have such loving friends and family.
I am not a huge fan of new years resolutions because I like to work on things continuously or make the conscious effort at the time, whenever I figure out something new I want to work on. But, that said, a few things I want to work on this year are...
(1) give Denver another shot. I think I have fallen into a pessimistic view of it and I am changing that around to be more optimistic. I will explore new areas, talk to more people, and do the things I moved here to do. That is, I will try to live a more balanced life taking advantage of the things the Rockies have to offer.
(2) learn more about Judaism and do something (buy a challah bread, light the candles, cook a nice dinner, go to services) to celebrate Shabbat each week. I hope I can find a temple I feel comfortable attending and I want to be learning more about Judaism as a way of life.
(3) read more novels, even as little as 1 page a night before crashing. I love reading and devour books. It has been so hard when I get to bed late, exhausted and I have already spent all day reading and looking at the computer screen. But I miss falling in love with characters, having good stories spinning around my head and good writing.
(4) Volunteer! I get to attend legal nights again this semester. I work as a volunteer translator for lawyers who don't speak Spanish at a free legal clinic. I couldn't go last semester because I always had class. I'm also getting involved in this cool organization that teaches human rights to high school kids. There is going to be a Youth Conference for the kids in April and I'm helping to plan the curriculum and the event. I'm really, really looking forward to this!
Some photos to enjoy --
Me with DK at the lodge at Big Sky in Montana
The trips.
The bridge on Keveney Lane, just down the hill from my parents' house
Lindsey, Andy, Louis, me, Mom, Diana. Notice the immature bunny ears ruining a perfectly nice photo.
The cute grandparents!
me!
Break has been wonderful! Spent some time on the Cape. I saw some high school friends, but mainly just spent time with the family. Had a few days back in Denver, then up to Montana for a skiing New Years with college friend and her family. Loved it! I feel so lucky to be where I am right now and to have such loving friends and family.
I am not a huge fan of new years resolutions because I like to work on things continuously or make the conscious effort at the time, whenever I figure out something new I want to work on. But, that said, a few things I want to work on this year are...
(1) give Denver another shot. I think I have fallen into a pessimistic view of it and I am changing that around to be more optimistic. I will explore new areas, talk to more people, and do the things I moved here to do. That is, I will try to live a more balanced life taking advantage of the things the Rockies have to offer.
(2) learn more about Judaism and do something (buy a challah bread, light the candles, cook a nice dinner, go to services) to celebrate Shabbat each week. I hope I can find a temple I feel comfortable attending and I want to be learning more about Judaism as a way of life.
(3) read more novels, even as little as 1 page a night before crashing. I love reading and devour books. It has been so hard when I get to bed late, exhausted and I have already spent all day reading and looking at the computer screen. But I miss falling in love with characters, having good stories spinning around my head and good writing.
(4) Volunteer! I get to attend legal nights again this semester. I work as a volunteer translator for lawyers who don't speak Spanish at a free legal clinic. I couldn't go last semester because I always had class. I'm also getting involved in this cool organization that teaches human rights to high school kids. There is going to be a Youth Conference for the kids in April and I'm helping to plan the curriculum and the event. I'm really, really looking forward to this!
Some photos to enjoy --
Me with DK at the lodge at Big Sky in Montana
The trips.
The bridge on Keveney Lane, just down the hill from my parents' house
Lindsey, Andy, Louis, me, Mom, Diana. Notice the immature bunny ears ruining a perfectly nice photo.
The cute grandparents!
me!
Monday, November 30, 2009
At long last
Quick update:
Philly was fabulous. I love it there. I went to campus and the button, walked by Clark Park farmer's market, ate Ethiopian food, saw my bestest of friends, played with little O., walked around campus, got a new comfy Penn sweatshirt.
Marathon - PR!! WOOOoooo! I finished in 3:10. More on that in another post. I was just so happy, felt stronger (mentally and physically) than I had in other marathons and had an awesome time. I was extremely sore for 2 1/2 days and then life got better.
D.C. was pretty good. Saw the lovely E. for tea at a beautiful little shop with nice wood floors and tables upstairs. Then, got to A. & S.'s place, which was awesome. Such a nice neighborhood, I thought I was walking in the wrong direction because I didn't believe they could live in such a grown-up, nice neighborhood. A. made a delicious dinner, which we enjoyed while visiting with our friends S. and G. (Soooo many couples!). Broken escalator at Dupont circle was my worst nightmare, give post-marathon soreness. Next day I spent with A., visiting her apartment, walking around the mall, work at a cafe and then dinner at good Thai. We baked a little to bring with her for Thanksgiving to M.'s family in Jersey. Finished the day watching an episode of The Office and collapsed into bed.
Wednesday - at long last - saw the family!! Walked a mile down to the Nat'l Geo Museum and waited in a cafe until family trickled in. We went to the Terra Cotta Warriors exhibit (didn't compare to Incans!) and saw a photo exhibit, too. Walked by the White House, had lunch in the old post office building and then Nat'l Gallery of Art. People peeled off in their own directions and baby brother L. and I walked down to the capital building. Sat there and watched the sun set, then got a snack and took the Metro out to 'burbs. Made Cheesecake & watched a movie.
Thanksgiving - hung around, had the meal at cousin's house. Pretty good food, but skimpy on the vegetables and no stuffing! Watched Brother's Bloom with L. that night.
Friday - unveiling. Spent the morning with grandma, went to the cemetery for the unveiling. It was nice, a little sad, but mostly just a nice family gathering. Bummed around at Aunt's house eating without being hungry and talking to sibs.
Saturday ended up being flying back, getting a new phone because the old one died and going to the grocery store. Welcome back to Denver. :/ Miss the fam. already. :(
Back to studying for me...4 finals, 1 paper and 1 presentation before it's over and I go home to play with D.
Philly was fabulous. I love it there. I went to campus and the button, walked by Clark Park farmer's market, ate Ethiopian food, saw my bestest of friends, played with little O., walked around campus, got a new comfy Penn sweatshirt.
Marathon - PR!! WOOOoooo! I finished in 3:10. More on that in another post. I was just so happy, felt stronger (mentally and physically) than I had in other marathons and had an awesome time. I was extremely sore for 2 1/2 days and then life got better.
D.C. was pretty good. Saw the lovely E. for tea at a beautiful little shop with nice wood floors and tables upstairs. Then, got to A. & S.'s place, which was awesome. Such a nice neighborhood, I thought I was walking in the wrong direction because I didn't believe they could live in such a grown-up, nice neighborhood. A. made a delicious dinner, which we enjoyed while visiting with our friends S. and G. (Soooo many couples!). Broken escalator at Dupont circle was my worst nightmare, give post-marathon soreness. Next day I spent with A., visiting her apartment, walking around the mall, work at a cafe and then dinner at good Thai. We baked a little to bring with her for Thanksgiving to M.'s family in Jersey. Finished the day watching an episode of The Office and collapsed into bed.
Wednesday - at long last - saw the family!! Walked a mile down to the Nat'l Geo Museum and waited in a cafe until family trickled in. We went to the Terra Cotta Warriors exhibit (didn't compare to Incans!) and saw a photo exhibit, too. Walked by the White House, had lunch in the old post office building and then Nat'l Gallery of Art. People peeled off in their own directions and baby brother L. and I walked down to the capital building. Sat there and watched the sun set, then got a snack and took the Metro out to 'burbs. Made Cheesecake & watched a movie.
Thanksgiving - hung around, had the meal at cousin's house. Pretty good food, but skimpy on the vegetables and no stuffing! Watched Brother's Bloom with L. that night.
Friday - unveiling. Spent the morning with grandma, went to the cemetery for the unveiling. It was nice, a little sad, but mostly just a nice family gathering. Bummed around at Aunt's house eating without being hungry and talking to sibs.
Saturday ended up being flying back, getting a new phone because the old one died and going to the grocery store. Welcome back to Denver. :/ Miss the fam. already. :(
Back to studying for me...4 finals, 1 paper and 1 presentation before it's over and I go home to play with D.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
odds and ends update
Yom Kippur yesterday - fast was hard! I was doing fine through about noon. Then I started to get a headache. Then I started to feel reeeaally bad. Then I broke, went to a quirky little break fast. Ate. Then my stomach just hurt. Ow. I knew it was coming. I don't even think I ate that much. I think the whole thing about going to temple the whole day isn't the best way to spend it. You don't actually get time to think! I don't think I reflected enough :/ but I feel like life is already moving on (without me!). You should have seen the scene at Temple Emanuel, though. Everyone all done up. Moms who are all put together with the fancy suit, the bleached/blow-fried hair, bright power-red nail polish, skinny-as-anything. I seriously wondered if some of them actually were sick and that was why they were so thin.
I got a call from Ms. Ariel and am very excited to be one of her bridesmaids at her upcoming wedding in Nashville. Hurrah! It will be so fun.
I am desperately trying to work on a first draft but it's not going so well. I have a meeting tomorrow at 11 so I am getting up at 5 (ha, a mere 7ish hours) to get working on it. Sigh. It shouldn't be this hard. Grad school is so much more fun than law school, I hate to admit.
Oh yeah, can you believe (1) it's almost October and (2) it stays dark so long! Almost until 7 a.m. Sigh, and it's dark when I get out of class at 7:15 p.m. Fall is here; winter is coming. The amount of people working out/running/biking in Wash Park is diminishing considerably. Soon, I will be able to bike the wrong way around the park and see the sun rise from my favorite angle. I had to stop doing that once spring hit because people (ahem, who had NOT been out biking through the winter as I had) decided to come out and tell me what not to do. It's not like I hadn't biked the wrong way through the park, in the dark, early morning all winter long! Sigh. A slave to society.
g'night!
I got a call from Ms. Ariel and am very excited to be one of her bridesmaids at her upcoming wedding in Nashville. Hurrah! It will be so fun.
I am desperately trying to work on a first draft but it's not going so well. I have a meeting tomorrow at 11 so I am getting up at 5 (ha, a mere 7ish hours) to get working on it. Sigh. It shouldn't be this hard. Grad school is so much more fun than law school, I hate to admit.
Oh yeah, can you believe (1) it's almost October and (2) it stays dark so long! Almost until 7 a.m. Sigh, and it's dark when I get out of class at 7:15 p.m. Fall is here; winter is coming. The amount of people working out/running/biking in Wash Park is diminishing considerably. Soon, I will be able to bike the wrong way around the park and see the sun rise from my favorite angle. I had to stop doing that once spring hit because people (ahem, who had NOT been out biking through the winter as I had) decided to come out and tell me what not to do. It's not like I hadn't biked the wrong way through the park, in the dark, early morning all winter long! Sigh. A slave to society.
g'night!
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Bailing
What is with everyone bailing on me lately?
Thursday - kid bailed in class on a group project (I only bailed because I thought you guys were going to bail.)
Friday - friend bailed on a morning run (only slept 2 hours)
Saturday - a different friend bailed on a different morning run via text at 5:00 a.m., despite e-mail confirmation at 8:00 p.m. the night before ("I feel like I might be getting sick")
Saturday - a different friend bailed on dinner plans (sick)
Saturday - another person bailed on going to a party tonight ("other plans are going to get in the way")
Yeesh. I'm trying, here, people. This is why I don't want to reach out to people here in Denver! Makes me want to just say 'forget it' and stop trying to make friends. Who need friends, anyway?
Sigh. :/
Thursday - kid bailed in class on a group project (I only bailed because I thought you guys were going to bail.)
Friday - friend bailed on a morning run (only slept 2 hours)
Saturday - a different friend bailed on a different morning run via text at 5:00 a.m., despite e-mail confirmation at 8:00 p.m. the night before ("I feel like I might be getting sick")
Saturday - a different friend bailed on dinner plans (sick)
Saturday - another person bailed on going to a party tonight ("other plans are going to get in the way")
Yeesh. I'm trying, here, people. This is why I don't want to reach out to people here in Denver! Makes me want to just say 'forget it' and stop trying to make friends. Who need friends, anyway?
Sigh. :/
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
A friend!
I have a friend in town! I feel like this whole past year I've had to repeat, "You have really good friends, they just don't live here." And now one is visiting! Hurrah! I worked last weekend to get things done so I could play. We talked until 1:00 a.m. last night. This morning was a leisurely 8:00 a.m. wake-up, went for a run (I got us a little lost - oops!), breakfast and then coffee/chatting on the outside patio at Pablo's. Pablo's has these free little stickers. One says "Danger monkey." The one I love most says "Small but Mighty." As Andy says, "I am Camgi, hear me roar!"
Anyway, it's been great to chat with my good friend, feel connected and calm, hear about how great she's been (post PhD comp. exams). It's inspiring and invigorating to talk ideas, about gaining control of one's own studies, getting past the hump of learning what other people want you to learn. She's now at the point where she is learning what SHE wants to learn. I have high hopes that my MA thesis will be the chance for me to be creative, actually pull together the J.D. and M.A. One day I'll get there, too...
She's here until Thursday, so I'm making myself scarce around school until then. It's lovely.
Anyway, it's been great to chat with my good friend, feel connected and calm, hear about how great she's been (post PhD comp. exams). It's inspiring and invigorating to talk ideas, about gaining control of one's own studies, getting past the hump of learning what other people want you to learn. She's now at the point where she is learning what SHE wants to learn. I have high hopes that my MA thesis will be the chance for me to be creative, actually pull together the J.D. and M.A. One day I'll get there, too...
She's here until Thursday, so I'm making myself scarce around school until then. It's lovely.
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