Boom. Posted.

MegaBus... Or Mega Diaster?

2013-01-23T21:01:00.003-08:00

Once upon a time, last October, I was invited by one of my closest friends to visit her in Nashville, TN. Three of our other close friends were going to make the trek out as well so I was excited to see everyone! We were ready to explore Nashville and I couldn't wait to figure out my travel arrangements. Well I searched online for airplane tickets and tried to map out the drive from Indiana to Nashville but I decided that trying a new means of transportation would be an incredible journey! ... boy was I wrong.

It all started one day at work when I was trying to book travel information for my sales guy to go up to Chicago for the weekend. He said "Oh just reserve the MegaBus" and I was all "Whaddaheck is the MegasBus?" To which he explained this fancy, double decker, luxury, bus that has stations all over the USA including from Indianapolis to Chicago, Cincinnati and a few other spots. He promised that he had never had a bad experience and since he didn't have to worry about travel inconveniences while he rode, he could plug his laptop into the bus outlet, sign onto the free Wi-Fi and be in Chicago before he knew it.

I was intrigued.

So while I was trying to figure out the most cost effective way to get 7 hours southeast, I looked at their website. They had a line from Indy to Nashville! And only $28 each way! Booked!

I was very excited and had been reassured multiple times that everything would work out great. So I packed my suitcase and brought my laptop to watch a few movies and I figured I would be all set...

Well, come Friday, Blake thankfully offered to wait with me at the 'bus stop' (really just a random MegasBus sign in the middle of the street) so I wouldn't have to leave my car downtown while I was away. The bus was supposed to come at 5:30ish. But there was no sign of anything for close to 3 hours. 3. Blake had to go to the meter at least five times to put more change in, best Fiance ever. I made this while we waited:

It's a nature documentary. I borrowed my cameraman's coat.

Anyway so the luxurious bus rolls up close to 9pm and by this time I have already made friends with a woman who was waiting. She has a boyfriend in Nashville and takes the bus at least twice a month. She swore she only had one other bad experience. Unbeknownst to her, this adventure would top it.

This bus rolls up. Not even a double decker. Top of line bus system you say? More like busted up Greyhound. This bus was like if the worst of the Greyhound fleet mated with the metro that Jerry Seinfeld took to Coney Island in that one episode... completely wretched.

At this point I am already thinking I should turn back. Don't get on the bus, my conscious says, you'll be murdered at the gas station in Louisville. But I want to see my friends so bad that I walk past the obvious drug deal near the luggage rack and stagger all the way to the back of the bus. But unless I want to sit next to the 300lb cousin of the main character from Slumdog Millionaire who is humming some incomprehensible tune, I turn around and head back up to the front begging my new friend to let me scrunch in next to her. Before the bus even makes it to the highway I am choking back tears, praying that I will have the courage to ask the bus driver to drop me off at the closest gas station so Blake can pick me up.

Here are some of the luxuries I was accommodated with on this bus trip:

No working electrical outlets
Broken Wi-Fi
Heat stuck on 90 degrees
3 week old baby in the front seat
Mother breast feeding her baby in the front seat (no problem with that) but Orangutan nipple makes an appearance
This picture in the pitch dark, radiating off of this person's computer
Stopping at THEE sketchiest gas station for a half hour pit stop
No music because my phone was almost dead and no way to charge it
And the constant worry of where the heck this Hell Bus was going to drop my pitiful butt off in downtown Nashville.

Basically any girl's worst nightmare.

So I have an awesome time in Nashville, trip of a lifetime with my best friends but I am absolutely dreading my return home. I almost consider just buying a plane ticket in order to avoid the inevitable. But I suck it up and get to the random bus stop and guess what is waiting there already? The conveniently advertised double decker luxury bus. It was like the bus right out of heaven's gate. I couldn't believe my eyes. And it was a Monday so it wasn't very full. I went up to the top deck and had a whole row to myself. I could look out the plexi-glass roof and plug my computer in. It was a miracle.

So I enjoyed the ride to the pitstop with playlist making and then I was able to rent a redbox at the McDonald's to watch the entire length of the trip home. Oh, it was Katy Perry the movie Part of Me, 5 stars and no sarcasm. I loved it.

So I don't know what advice to give on this bipolar mode of transportation but be prepared for Jekyll or Hyde because, like I experienced, ya never know whatcha gonna get.

Boom. Still alive.... Posted.

Pumping It Up.

2013-01-16T18:57:00.000-08:00

You guys want to know the secret to keeping your New Year's Resolution? Don't even make one! Just get your butt to the gym... or maybe the alternative...

Picture this: sweat is dripping from the ceiling, the music is blaring, bass pounding, arms flailing, legs jiggling , hair whipping back and forth... you think you are at a club? Nope. Zumba.

I never thought I would succumb to the intensity of a Zumba class. If any thing I thought it would be a pathetic attempt to learn who to 'dance' and I already learned that from the Kinect so.... But here I am, in 2013, and it's my second week! The first week... miserable. I was all over the place, always doing the wrong right leg when I should have been on the left. But sometimes I would find the groove and really feel like I was getting down and dirty.... but I know I just looked like this...

That's the trouble with these classes, especially when there are not any mirrors. Everyone thinks they look like J. Lo shaking their buns and gyrating their hips when really... they look like Molly Shannon in Superstar. (Look it up)

Tonight there was a smaller woman in front of me that was just laying it all out on the table. I mean she was really into it, similar to these twins dancing to the Wii (The right one especially):

I mean high kicking, power punching, and just flinging sweat to the wayside. She was a ZumbaPro.

Let me tell you what it takes to be a ZumbaPro. All you need is to disregard any insecurities and take up full confidence that you are a Latin Loving Queen. Feel the beat of the rhythm of the night, forget the worries on your mind.... Okay seriously. I really don't like Zumba that much, but it's good for me and the people watching is just priceless. Like I said, unimaginable confidence and complete disregard to actual choreography skill.

My favorite of the fitness classes is Turbo Strength. It gets my blood pumping and I am in the zone! I pretend like I'm punching the rude people I may have talked to on the phone that day at work or I envision myself in one of those 80's work out videos. Either way its a great stress release.

Then I have been going to yoga on Thursday and needless to say... it was just like when I talked about yoga before in The Trumpet Section of Life, people fartin' up a storm and all. Oh well what are you gonna do... gotta find release somewhere (waaa waaaaa).

Boom. Posted.

Oh how the years go by.

2013-01-09T19:52:00.000-08:00

I'M BACK SUCKAS!

That's right, I've dusted of the ole blog and this baby is back in business. A new year, a new challenge, and a new blog post every Wednesday? Can life get any better? I suggest that it cannot! (A little Brian Regan to bring in the new tone for ya.) Speaking of Brian Regan.... he was just in town this fall and my *ahem* fiance (yes, I'm engaged!) surprised me with tickets to my favorite comedian and the night was non-stop laughter. Some other 2012 highlights include:

January: New Year's in Scottsdale with friends (oh the drive home)

February: Superbowl visit to Indianapolis (watched it from our super cool living room fort!)

March: Won the crap out of retiree bingo at the old neighborhood (Literally made more money playing than working at that golf course...)

April: Return to Indianapolis for job interviews (End up having to go to another one after celebratory happy hour... needless to say it's not my current job. Also, Skyzone!)

May: New job offer and finally pack up for Indy (... and my new car Stella becomes a part of the familia!)

June: Recover from the Indy500 (yes it took a whole month to recover from the redneckery)

July: Birthday in Vegas! (and I walked/ran/mostly walked my first 5K, the Color Run!)

August: Back to Vegas for Summer Splash (why yes.... you can have too much Vegas)

September: Aurora & Sterling are born (Blake and my alternate personalities who are hipsters)

October: Built up o much excitement to hand out candy to trick or treaters... didn't even have one show up... (at least my Barbie zombie outfit was not entirely wasted... it lasted through a bottle of Riesling). Blake and I become obsessed with puppies we can't have or afford (and I'm allergic). Also, I went on the great adventure of the MegaBus all the way to Nashville (that's another post in itself...)

November: I said YES! (Blake proposed after 8 years of friendship, 1.5 years long distance, 6 months regular dating, some mistakes and forgiveness, and now we are getting married!)

December: Moving Apartments, Mom & the Old Roommate came to visit, Picking out wedding date!!! Christmas Tea in D.C., Christmas vacation in Texas, and New Year's snow in Indy (I think I've had enough traveling for one year!)

OKAY, That was my 2012!! On to the next year with even more incredible memories!

Blessed Beyond Belief.

2012-06-10T16:17:00.003-07:00

There are many instances in my life where I have found myself to be extremely fortunate. This post is not meant to shove anything down your throat, so don't get any ants in yo' pants. Its merely a memoir of 3 special experiences I have had over these past 24 years and I know they are because of the Big Guy Upstairs. And maybe they could soften your heart enough to want to learn more.. maybe?

Number 1: Moving to Alabama.

My dad is a pilot in the Air Force and I have moved 16 times in my life. The latest one to Indiana was the first time in 24 years that I chose to move on my own. With this lifestyle I have learned to be outgoing and personable, and maybe a little bit funny, in order to make friends fast before it was time to move. Obviously I mastered the skill because I have so many awesome friends, but it took many years to to truly learn and adapt to my family's nomadic lifestyle. For example, par exemple: Move from South Carolina to Alabama, circa 2001.

We were about to leave South Carolina, our home of 3 years (longest anywhere before college), and move on to Alabama where I would be starting high school. My friend Megan, whose wedding I was in last September, and her family have a beach house in North Carolina. Our parents had planned a joint vacation for two weeks out there just before we were to bid our farewells. Right before we left, I found out one of my classmates, McSwain, was going to be at the same beach with a family who used to live in South Carolina so we made plans to meet up.

Now this was before the time of cell phones so the plan was that he was going to let us know the name of the house they were renting (beach houses have names you know) and ~~we would ask Siri~~ look it up in the phone book to try to meet up (oh yeah, the phone book). We look it up, plan a rendezvous, and meet up one night. Here is where the story gets interesting. Remember when I said we were moving to Alabama in just a few weeks? Well, it turns out, McSwain was staying with a military family who used to live in SC but now lived in AL. Their son, Jay, was my age and come to find out went to the same school I was enrolled to attend. Oh and they went to the same church my parents were looking into trying AND ON TOP OF THAT... they lived right down the street from the house we were going to rent for our 10 month assignment. Oh yeah, big coincidence right? Hardly.

Megan and I hang out with the boys the whole trip and I make plas to meet up with Jay once I move. We go to church with his family the first week and I meet almost 90% of the kids in my grade all during the summer before my freshmen year of high school. Pretty amazing experience and one that I have never had before or since.

Number 2: Moving to Indiana.

This is a much more recent account of how God always has a plan for you. During my adventure in moving from Arizona to Indiana, I ran into a point in my life where I was very impatient and frustrated. Patience is something I have forever struggled with and I was once voted 'most impatient' in my family. Go figure. Also grumpiest, hard to believe right?.... but regardless, it's a struggle.

I was hopelessly searching for jobs online with no direction or proper procedure. My resume was being corrected, ripped apart, and otherwise stomped on by everyone and their mother. And I was miserable being away from one of the people I care about most in this world. So after about 3 months of dilly dally online job searching I finally called up my good friend Mara to set me straight. We did a search of companies in Indy and found places to apply and some sort of direction to aim towards. I found a job with the Hershey's company that seemed awesome and I applied. Had my first phone interview, then my second, and then I realized the job was not for me and landed another interview with a different job in beer and wine distribution. Flew out to Indy, had my first interview, then my second, then my third, fourth and a shadow day. Had to make the decision to change my flight for the shadow day but was also influenced by another interview in event services, the job I have now.

It was late Friday night when Blake gets a call from his coworker explaining how he spoke to someone from the company and learned that they were hiring, mentioned that i was in town looking for a job, and Blake called to land an interview on Saturday morning. A Saturday. Who does that?? Couldn't have worked out any better.

Go home, decline an invitation to fly back out for the Hershey's shadow (really not as good as it sounds), and a week later I get offered the job. That simple.

Now the miraculous part is just beginning. That was just the tip of the iceberg. The remaining steps held much greater value;

My parents happened to have a trip planned for Arizona right before I was expecting to move. The decision for me to get a new car out in Indy was made and the phone calls began. My dad gets everything squared away, wires the money, and I buy my car in Indy the next day after I arrive.... in 30 mins. Literally! Not to mention we had to go to the DMV before hand to get a temporary Indiana license.

Also I had 6 pieces of luggage... all arrived on time. Then I had 6 boxes sent.. all arrived with just one casualty, an owl cookie jar :(. How can a move where one is trying to figure out if they are just really wanting to move or really should be moving, go so flawlessly? God. That's how.

Number 3: Reconnecting with Blake.

There was a point in my life where I was very devastated and depressed. A relationship that I was in for over 3 years abruptly ended and my life had made a 180 degree turn. Looking back, it all seems so trivial, but times like those can really test you. But I had hope that the future was bright and I just had to make it through the summer.

My family had just moved to Alaska and I was staying there until my Masters program started up in the fall. Having little to do doing the week, veg-ing out around the house became the norm and Nelson and I were discovering that we were so bored that even the gym was looking enticing.. and that never happens.

I don't know how it started but Blake and I started texting more often and long distance phone calling and then finally Sykpe-ing. Old friends just reconnecting and learning about what was going on in each other's lives.

How could I possibly know that within a year and a half, I would move across the country to be with him and start our futures together? I've realized that faith isn't supposed to be easy but it's worth it.

Love God and follow Him and you will find that your life will make more sense. Mine does. :)

Boom. Posted.

A Year Without 'Poo.. Shampoo That Is.

2012-05-30T17:49:00.001-07:00

So I seriously just looked up in my calendar when I stopped using shampoo and it was actually almost 2 years (September 25, 2010) since I used brand name, chemical filled, and hair debilitating shampoo. Now this story has a happy ending for you, the disgusted reader, because I have to wash my hair here in Indiana... the humidity causes to much grunge.

It all started while I was getting my Master's and stuck at home all the time. Pinterest.com & stumbleupon.com became my new best friends, not to mention this blog! So there I was, stumbling away, when I came across a blog about the 'no poo' method. I was intrigued. You see, as unhealthy as I am, I wish I could be some all-natural, people loving, healthy eating, free love hippie... really! So I was interested to see how this 'no poo' idea would turn out. What did I have to lose? I was in a long distance relationship-- didn't have to smell good, wasn't working full time-- didn't have to dress up, nor was I ever working out-- no sweat to deal with! Perfect timing for an experiment.

This was a little too much grunge

Now if you were to read up on any of the no shampoo blogs, you would know that the first 2-4 weeks are a trying time. The lack of shampoo kind of turns your hair into a greaseball right off the bat. You also really need the perfect conditions to attack the 'no poo' lifestyle and grab it by the horns. I have complied a list of important factors if you are contemplating starting your own 'no poo' challenge:

1. Have no life-- preferably you should be in a long distance relationship and live with your grandma.

(Honestly #1 is cracking me up so much right now I am tempted to just leave it at that!)

2. Have no job-- Okay well no full time job at least, you can work 4 hours a week at your neighborhood golf course.

3. Live in Arizona --The dry heat really does wonders in zapping out grease, but don't stay out in the heat for more than an hour for fear of sweating.

4. Live 30 minutes away from friends --this really locks in any need to consider maintaining a social life and will insure Friday nights home with your own bottle of wine.

5. Ignore the haters-- Haters gonna hate, okay? We all know this. But even some of your closest friends will turn on you and your new lifestyle. Be prepared to defend your beliefs! (Lyndsie, Lucy, Amy, & Briana!) Also, when you do see your boyfriend once a month, he may think you are a little stinky... but don't let that deter you from your mission!

So there are you 5 easy steps. Also you need: long wavy hair, naturally not very much grease, and be able to do your hair in 15 minutes.

This was a perfect amount of Grunge! Look how voluminous.

All you do is ditch the shampoo, wet your hair and massage it like you would if you were shampooing it (but you AREN'T!), put some conditioner on the ends, and boom! You're ready for the world, or the couch... whatever, I'm not one to judge.

Really, that's all there is to it! Your hair may be a little greasy around your face but there are many different remedies for that, many include baking soda. I would just suds up some of my bar of soap and rub that around my hairline.

Your hair will develop what I like to call a 'grunge' feel. Once you get used to it, your hair will be so manageable (no more hair falling in your face!) and it will have so much natural volume.

Don't hate it until you try it.. or do... I don't care... I'm just trying to make some money. Or wait, I don't get paid for this??

Boom. Posted.

Cross the Indy500 Off the List.

2012-05-28T18:57:00.001-07:00

We having a saying in my family when we don't like something: "cross that off the list". Like the one time we went to this Chinese restaurant and the waiters just stared at us the whole time we were eating. Not to mention the fact that they tried to take away a plate from my dad while he was still chewing and not finished. He then had to make a bunch of grunts in order for them to set the plate down and back off and then he proceeded to explain to us that he 'didn't know how to say 'no' in Chinese'! Crossed off the list.

That was how I was feeling yesterday around 4pm Eastern Standard Time. Yesterday was the much anticipated Indiana 500 race which is apparently something of value to the Hoosiers, er I mean, 'us Hoosiers'.

If you know me very well, or even a little bit at all, then you know if I don't like something that is going on you're more than likely going to hear about it. Now this is something I have been working on fixing for many years and I honestly think I am getting better! But when lack of sleep is also factor, then it goes all down hill.. and quickly. So when I was informed that we would not only be attending the Indy500 (crowds, loud noises, hot sun & humidity, random people I don't know, and alcohol are all on the list of 'no thank you' for me now) but waking up at 4:30am to beat traffic... I gritted my teeth and put on my happy face, braced for the upcoming day.

Everything was going smoothly until about 2 miles away from the 'Coke Lot' (which I am hoping is referring to the beverage but never actually verified this) parking lot, when the traffic wasn't just slow, but completely standstill. We were stopped in the left lane trying to turn at the light for literrally an hour. The car was parked and off and the boys ran to go get McDonalds. Then once we made it through the light, there was another hour's wait through this neighborhood. The neighborhood, however, was full of 'lawn-sitters' with big "Parking for $10" signs out front so you could park on their grass lawns. Easily their biggest money maker of the year as each yard could park about 4 cars... a whole 40 bucks, woo!

We found a yard to back up into, lugged all of our crap to the track (it was at this point that I realized infield meant literally "in the middle of the track field"), and discussed where to set up camp. There is this really 'great little family-oriented, quiet, peaceful, and spacious' area on the 4th turn called the Snake Pit, and that's where we decided to set up camp. The Snake Pit is actually not described by the aforementioned adjectives. It was loud, crowded, raunchy and full of America's finest. BUT I had ear plugs, sunscreen, and a blanket... so all was good.

Close to the beginning of the race (did I mention that it was 8am and the race didn't start until noon?), we moved up to one of the grass mounds surrounding the litteral 'pit of snakes'. From there we could see the all the latecomers hauling their beer and sporting their 'USA' shirts with their Daisy Duke shorts... and those were the guys! One guy had on an American flag speedo and was using a dolly to push two, that's right TWO, kegs. That's dedication.

After a a little while, the empty space of grass to the left of us started to fill up with about 20 guys, each with a 40 pack of beer. Apparently it was a bachelor party and they had the HOOK UP. Canopy tent, 20 cases of beer, squirt guns, chairs, a pink inflatable kiddie pool for a cooler, and lots of charisma.

Blake and Ryan quickly planned how to get an in just in case our supply ran dry. Those guys definitely made the experience 'All American'. So the race started and the party continued. Some DJ was there and the rednecks were plenty. About 20 laps to go and it was time for us to go. We packed up and headed home, only to pass out on the couch for a few hours. I seriously had to google who had won. Then we watched the whole race on television, like we hadn't been there the whole freaking day!

It was a fun filled day but trekking it to the races was a one time experience and the Indy500 infield is crossed right off the list!

Boom. America....

Posted.

This One Time... When I Got My Permit.

2012-05-24T18:51:00.003-07:00

...at band camp. Okay, for real. A long time ago, back when I was 15, I was living in Utah and cheating off of Blake to get my driver's license. Seriously. Never changed a tire and didn't do most of my study book because I went to Paris for my 16th birthday. Sorry mom and thank you, Blake!

So there I was, trying to learn how to parallel park, keep my hands at 10 o'clock and 2 o'clock, and avoid getting flipped off on the freeway. That's right, the first time I ever merged from the on-ramp to the highway, I was flipped the big 'ole birdie by some jerkface driver. My dad, in the passager seat, with his foot on an imaginary accelerator, just laughed.

For practice, my dad would have me drive to the bottom of the hill by taking the highway and then we would stop off at the one and only... KrispyKreme. But only if the red light of goodness was on. That meant they were hot, fresh, and fully lardified. You got a free one just walking in the door. Now that is quality service! ...and alo probably the reason why KrispyKreme exploded too quickly and went completely out of stand-alone-business in less than a year*.

Got some donuts today... for throwback Thursday..?

So my dad and I would drive to the KrispyKreme so I could get in all my required permit hours, a sugar rush, and we would pick up a dozen donuts. 6 regular and 6 assorted. Every time. Then I would get a little chocolate milk and he would get a regular one, and we would sit in the lobby and eat 3 each before we packed up to drive back home.

Utah was also the time in my life when I found the hilarious comedian known as Brian Regan. If you do not know of him... I suggest you introduce ya-self. Here is a little snippet about the very true dilemma in choosing the assorted donuts. Because, let's face it, those are the hardest to choose.

That was back in the day when I was allowed the pleasure of driving the 1995 Ford Contour, my dad's car, as to which we fondly named 'Old Faithful'. It was, for all intent and purposes, a car for me to drive my brother and me to school and then to gymnastics, but was never considered my car. Well it was considered my car when something bad happened. Like that one time that house next door jumped out in front of me...

Long story short, I used to park the car in the empty house next us carport. It was a single and helped shelter my car from being covered in Utah snow, so it worked. Well one night my dad parked the car and apparently put the wheel all the way to the left. That was a problem because at 7:50am when Nelson and I were running later for school, I was looking over my left shoulder as I was backing out to the driveway... completely unaware that the car was veering to the right, right where the side of the house was... And WHAMO, the house hit me. And for a long time in my life I could say that I had never hit a car, just a house. But unfortunately that is not the case anymore. My speciality is hitting non-moving objects, its a skill.

So there's the story of why KrispyKreme is so important to me and my plight of driving.

Boom. Posted.

*This is not a verified fact, check Wikipedia for real answers.

Hoosierville.

2012-05-23T15:28:00.000-07:00

I am now officially a Hoosier (Indiana-ian)! Got my Indiana driver's license in the mail and now I'm just waiting on my car plates. I had to take the Indiana state driver's test and I aced that thing no problem. Very much unlike when I was 16 and had to take my written test 3 times...

Almost two weeks down and nothing detrimental to report. Good news is that Blake and I still like each other just as much regular dating as we did long distance... phew! We even went out on an "let's kill time at the mall because we want P.F. Chang's" date. It was after a very much miserable and failed attempt to apartment hunt. Apparently going to look at a couple of random, poorly researched apartments on a Sunday is a bad idea... who knew? But what we did know was that P.F. Chang's 'dinner for two' menu was an awesome deal, as well as delicious.

But before we did that, let's rewind to my first week of work! My new job at the Exhibit House is great! Its a fun, creative, friendly and fast passed environment. I like it so far! Just trying to learn a whole new craft and trying to adjust to East coast time... that was a bummer... is a hard process.

The environment is very modern and relaxed. There is a warehouse where old booths and such are stored and a huge shop for production. I have my own little office that I have been attempting to decorate. Its starting to feel like my zone.

It is still very strange to not have to text Blake all day or go home to Skype with him. Its pretty great but we still send each other 'second good morning' pictures. I have compiled them below for your enjoyment:

Don't worry about my hair... that's just the humidity. Which all of my friends will be happy to know that the humidity is forcing me to wash my hair daily so that fight is over, they win! Soon I will post about my year and a half long experiment in a 'no-poo' lifestyle. You won't even believe it!

We were invited to a birthday jam this past Saturday and I got to meet some people our age (mostly couples) and everyone there went to Purdue. It is very interesting to see how much the midwest is starting to feel like when I lived in the south... oh great! Good news was I saw my first lightning bug in like 5 years... and I caught him!

Another great thing about the midwest (well... I guess really everywhere other than the southwest) are all the trees. So weird to see so much green but it is very beautiful.

Blake's apartment complex is more like a town home complex (they are technically referred to as Apartment homes... ahem!). But there are a lot of families with younger children and these kids give me the creeps. They're all walking around with their basketballs trying to get to the courts and all. I know what they are really doing... killing all the squirrels probably... there's only a MILLION squirrels around here. The pool just recently opened up and you would think that would be a nice thing but I know those kids are all going to be in there because its summer break, splashing around, making all sorts of ruckus!

I am used to nice, quiet, old people. I need to start looking for apartments in retirement communities I think!

Boom. Posted.

Happy Mother's Day, Lady.

2012-05-13T16:21:00.004-07:00

Happy Mother's day to all the wonderful mothers and to those who will never forget the impact of their mothers on their lives!

Last year I wrote an awesome poem, so I won't dare try to out do myself! BUT here is a favorite YouTube video that really says it all:

Tell me that isn't the cutest thing you have ever seen? "Happy Motha's Day Laaaadey," That's my family's favorite part!

Hope you not only tell you mom how much you love her but all of your loved ones!

Love you MOM! Thanks for being the best ever. :)

Boom. Mother's Dayed...Posted.

The Adventure Begins... In the Fast Lane.

2012-05-13T16:08:00.001-07:00

First class on Southwest...

We made it! Our flight left Arizona at 2:50pm Mountain Standard Time and we landed in Indianapolis at 10:30pm Eastern Standard Time. When I said goodbye to some of my closest girls friends the common theme was "I hate 2:50!". It was bittersweet. Not to mention bidding my farewell to my ever loyal roommate (and you know when I say roommate I mean my grandma, right?)! And if you know me, even a little bit, you know I was crying. Time for the next chapter!

So after a little under six hours of flying, watching the Dark Knight, and a layover in Chicago... we made it.

Check out this hysterical "How it Should Have Ended" for the Dark Knight. This YouTube channel had me sucked in for hours:

AND all the luggage made it... it was a moving miracle!

All eight pieces trekked over 1,700 miles. We were very blessed to make it all the way out here with very little problems. Actually, I can't even think of any problems! Not to mention we bought my car in less than a half an hour. Oh did I forget to mention that I GOT A NEW CAR?!? Courtesy of my wonderful father, here is the latest addition to the family:

The 2012 Toyota Corolla S (in Super White, i.e. 'not yo momma's white'). She's amazing. Drives like a dream and now I can be like Modern Family with my Bluetooth capability. That show really is hilarious.

I also got my temporary IN license at the BMV (THEE nicest DMV you will ever see) and I passed written test you have to retake no problem. Didn't even have to answer the last four questions. No big deal.

I am starting to feel settled in my new temporary living space (Blake's apartment). I think he is realizing there is more of me than what he bargained for, in clothes and shoes that is! I've got most everything unpacked, just finding the space is difficult. Next weekend we plan to go apartment hunting for me which I am very excited about.

Anddddd, tomorrow is my first day of my new job! Very anxious to see exactly what I will be doing and for my new office. That's right, I get an office!

More to come on that later, Blake and I are watching Planet Earth: Extreme Predators, because we can watch T.V. shows together now... and not over Skype!

Boom. Posted.

Times are a-Changing.

2012-05-07T16:10:00.004-07:00

Good ole yours truly is moving out!

I know its only been about 3 months since my last update but let me fill my (hopefully still) faithful readers in on a few milestones that have been and are to be happening:

I go to Indy for Superbowl>> Blake comes to Tucson for visit>>I go back to Indy for interview>>Get random interview while out there for awesome company>>Get call two weeks later>>I'm moving to Indy May 11th.

Boom. Updated!

No more questions right? Okay, okay fine. I'll give you all the details:

After Blake came to visit the end of March, we realized that the job search had moved into full swing. I was getting calls for phone interviews and I needed to fly out again to seal some deals. Over Easter weekend I went to interview with a really great beer and wine distributor for a wine sales job. Would have been great but it is a lot of work for little pay in the beginning. The recruiter was very helpful and knew that I was only going to be in town for a few days so she pulled some strings and after my initial interview Thursday afternoon, she called for another one Friday morning. They were all going great so Blake and his coworker decided to take me out to lunch at a Mexican restaurant for happy hour to celebrate. Two margaritas later and we are driving home when I get a phone call... for another interview... in 20 minutes. Inner monologue: "Pull yourself together Lauren, you can do this. You are not Leslie Knope, you will triumph. Yes it is ironic that they are in the alcohol business... maybe this will be a sure thing... no... get it together!"

For those of you who are not an avid Parks & Recreation fan, please enjoy:

http://www.hulu.com/watch/337643/parks-and-recreation-leslies-drunk-interview

All the interviews went great but it was Friday night that changed everything. Blake's coworker was having something delivered to his apartment by one of the companies they use for their props at conventions and got to talking about me visiting Blake. He mentioned I was looking for a job when the guy suggested Blake call them because their company had a position available. Blake gives them a call right away and we set up an informal interview for Saturday morning. That interview went great and I ended up changing my flight to stay an extra day for my 5th interview with the wine place (shadow day) and my 2nd at the Exhibit House. Meet a lot of the employees, everything goes great, wait very patiently for two weeks for a response (not even close to patiently), and BOOM. I am employed.

Now this company is awesome. They build booths, displays, exhibits, props, signs, posters, and anything else you can imagine all from this warehouse that is included in the office. They have a large graphic design team and are used all over the world. Here is an example of their work:

Pretty cool huh? So my first day of work in on Monday which means I have a mucho things to accomplish before then. Not to mention my parents are in town, Blake flies in tomorrow, and we are all leaving on Friday. Hectic.

Also we are in the process of choosing a new car for me to buy once I get out there. The 2012 Toyota Corolla S is taking the lead right now. I love the way it drives and the interior and I was very disappointed with the new Honda Civic. So Corolla it is!

Lots of new and exciting adventures ahead and I promise to maintain the blog in order to keep you updated!

Also check this out (click the picture), read the whole thing and you will be glad you did! Beyond Hilarious:

Boom. I'M MOVING TO INDIANA...Posted

Bingo, for the Young at Heart.

2012-01-28T09:35:00.000-08:00

There comes a point in your life where everything you once found enjoyable, and a representation of your social status, just falls by the wayside and you zone out into a state of melancholy complacency. Or as in represented in my life: old. 23 old. For example: you can't go get too excited for New Year's Eve because you know staying up that late is going to throw you off for the rest of that week and you have to work and need to be focused so you put on your game face and try to have an awesome time running around with your friends and meeting new people and getting free drinks and then it rapidly melts away by 12:30pm. Bedtime.

Or there is the instance where you begin to turn down social outings and happy hours because you have Bingo on Thursday nights with your roommate at the golf course club house with all of your roommate's friends. That's right, Bingo in the retirement community.

Now I can't dis it too much because it can be fun. But let me tell you, it started off a nightmare. The first night there was a fairly large group of us and the table was pretty noisy. Well every time a number was called no one would be paying attention and shout "Whaaa?" right as the announcer would repeat the number. It was exasperating. And the announcer uses 'Bingo Lingo' where every number has a saying like: 'G56... Was she worth it?' and then they will add my name in there cause they love me so much, so like 'B12 a monkey's cousin, B12 Lauren's family tree... Oh except you Grammy!' The Lingo is ridiculous and a little racy sometimes especially when it get to O69, I'll let you check it out: Bing Lingo.

So Aside from the nobody be able to hear and the clever jabs to my self esteem, there was a glimmer of hope when the roommate shouted 'BINGO!'

So then it was worth the exhausting repetition of the numbers and the hushing of the table. She won $100.

Then the third week I was on my own and considering not going. But the club lures you in because every night you attend you get an extra card on the last night when the grand pot is $800.. so I'm not missing that!

But the receptionist at my work had a baby the day before so I drove to the hospital and got to hold a one day old baby:

Little Camilo. That would have warranted one of the greatest moments of this year but then I had to go to Bingo. I showed up three games late, was hassled for finally making my appearance, paid for my cards and took a seat at the bar. With only two games left I was there more to get some dinner and hang out with staff more but I had to play so I could still be in the running for the last night.

The game 'X', so you have to get an X on one of your cards. So I was just eating and carrying on with my friends and half hearing the words being called when I notice I only have about two numbers left. But I play it cool because I have been this close before and someone else got it before me. Well then I only have one number left so my heart starts to pound but I don't want to jinx myself so I continue to play it cool....

THEN BINGO!! I shouted and leapt out of my chair completely baffled by my winning before anyone else! And it was my first game out of the three weeks. A whopping $75 in 'wine vouchers' is handed to me and I take a seat at the old people table with my roommate's friends.

The final game is coverall where you have to get every number marked. I am still so ecstatic from my first win and everyone is giving me crap for showing up late and taking all the money that I am hardly paying attention to the numbers being called for the last game.

So I am eating my food, repeating the numbers for the old people and I realize that I am getting pretty close again. But I tell my self 'self, chill out, there is no way you could win again'. But heart starts to palpitate again. Then I am down to one left and just know someone is going to get it before me when the announcer says 'B11' I literally scream so loud and jump out of my chair knocking it completely over and giving everyone over 60 (so everyone) a heart attack. I won AGAIN! $125! For a grand total of $195!!

Then the harassing really starts: 'You think you can just waltz in here all late and take all the money?' 'Oh those must be your lucky tights' and 'I think I am deaf now due to your screaming'. BUt I brushed all those to the side. Take that old people!

This week, although, I did not win. But 4 out of the 5 wins were by people at my table... my luck rubbed off. It was a fun night until I remembered that I had turned down happy hour and free tickets to the basketball game to be there...

Boom. Olded.....Posted.

A New Year & a New Me.

2012-01-03T20:58:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year!

It is 2012 and I am ready for new adventures. Like I mentioned in my post Transitions, I am ready to become a newer and improved version of myself in the form of maturity. My dad will be so proud.

After the lastest events of 2011, I am on a mission to become healthier and take care of my body. Don't get crazy though, vegetables are still the enemy, but I will compensate with multi-vitamins and eating lots of fruit. I have also made the tough decision of limiting my carbohydrate intake. It will be hard, but it will be worth it... I just have to tell that to my thrice a week mac and cheese intake. Oy.

Aside from the excitement of my new nutritional values, I am extremely excited for my upcoming trip to Indianapolis to see Blake. We finally picked a time and then realized it was also during Superbowl Weekend.... in Indianpolis. Woot! I can't wait to go tailgating near the Colts stadium, should be a great time. Not to mention I finally get to spend time with Blake, it will only have been 4 months since our last visit. I am not truly counting the hour we spent during his layover in the Phoenix airport. I mean anytime spent with my wonderful boyfriend is the best time in the world but just the one hour is hard.

In other, and less depressing, news: the secretary at my work is on bed rest until she gives birth to a little boy in the next few weeks. This is good news and bad news because she will be having a little baby soon but also because now I have to run the front desk.

I know, it sounds like running the front desk at an insurance agency wouldn't be so bad, and it really isn't, but then you have to consider the mundane tasks of answering the phones and watch it turn into amateur hour brought about by all of Arizona.

I had a lady call this morning asking for an agent who is involved with the personal policies, like homeowners and personal auto insurance. The lady said she had called the agent but it kept going to voicemail. Then I asked, as I always do, if she left a voicemail because then the agent would return it as soon as she could. I then mentioned that she was on the other line because I could see her light blinking on my switchboard thingy. Then the lady says, and I quote, "Oh I don't leave voicemails." And the old Lauren would have "Oh well then don't expect to get in touch with the agent then." But I bit my tongue and said she could leave a message or call back but my hands were tied. Give. Me. A. Break. LEAVE A MESSAGE.

Once when I was covering the front desk, this guy called trying to explain to me that he had been in an accident.. in SPANISH. I know pretty much zero Spanish. I took French for 6 years and it has obviously been helpful living in the town I am now... not. All I could say was "No habla Espanol and uno momento" and then tried to transfer him to a lady who I thought spoke Spanish in our agency.... she doesn't. I made a horrible stereotypical error. Lo siento por favor. The guy was on his own.

Then I constantly get the "I cannot get a hold of so-and-so, is there anyone else I can talk to?" I give me to three other people because they keep calling back and then I ask if they left a message... LEAVE A FREAKING MESSAGE. They will never learn.

Boom Posted.

In the Blink of an Eye.

2011-12-28T21:13:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I was looking like this:

Feeling great, about to head to the gym to get my run on and showing Blake how cute his Christmas present was on me.

Then at about 4am this morning, I was looking like this:

Waiting for my results in the ER because I had horribly unbearable pelvic and back pain at 1 o'clock this morning.

Let me set the scene.

I wake up with terrible cramping in my let pelvic region and the lower left side of my back (which was very unusual). I crawl out of bed completely doubled over in pain, pop a few ibuprofen, and lay in the shower for about 20 minutes with no relief. I eventually make it back to my bed and have to call my roommate on the phone because of the pain. Its about 1:30 at this point and she comes into my room with a heating pad and some bread. I feel totally nauseous and cannot get the pain to subside at all. I finally call a good family friend who is a nurse and tell her my symptoms. We ruled out appendicitis because it was the wrong side but the possibilities included kidney stones and an ovarian cyst rupture. She gave me the go ahead to take some Vicodin to ease the pain but about 5 seconds after I swallowed it I had to crawl to the garbage can and started vomiting. So badly in fact that it eventually turned to blood and at that point I told Grammy to get dressed because I had to go to the hospital.

After a little bit of a delay waiting for our neighbor to come with us in case anything happened that Grammy couldn't handle, we finally made it to the ER with no waiting time. The nurse took my vitals while I writhed in pain and I was set up in my own little area. I rated my pain a 9 out of 10 and the whole time I was thinking about an old Brian Regan sketch about being put on morphine.

Pretty funny now but I was in no condition to positively recollect. I was struggling until the nurse left and I was waiting for the doctor.

By that point I had changed my previous praying that the pain would go away to accepting the fact that God would not give me anything I couldn't handle and almost instantly the pain subsided. It was pretty miraculous.

Then the nurse came back with the medication and the doctor decided to perform a pelvic examination because of my symptoms and was leaning toward the ovarian cyst rupture as the cause. He also wanted to get an ultrasound. Now all of this is happening at 4am and I have never experienced any of this. Every time I went to the ER in the past it was because of some lame gymnastics injury, nothing totally critical.

So I get wheeled to another room where I am informed that I have to get a catheter inserted for the ultrasound because your bladder needs to be full but not with water incase you have to get surgery... just another bonus to the night. And let me tell you, not a pleasant experience. Then I get the ultrasound which doesn't just stop with over the stomach view. That would be too easy.

So after I am completely vulnerable and been rung out to dry I go back to wait for the results. It seems as though I did have a cyst rupture and I am prescribed pain medication and told to schedule an appointment with the OB/GYN so they can figure everything out this week.

I am finally able to be discharged at 8 o'clock only to be surprised with a $250 co-pay... I can't think of a better way to end 2011, can you? I am very grateful and blessed that is was nothing more serious and everything looks healthy and normal on the inside. Needless to say, I did not go to work today, the insurance world just had to do with out.

My good friend Amy came over to console me with blueberry pancakes. She is a tech at the same hospital but in the ICU unit. I texted her hoping she was working and could come see me but she came to my house instead :)

I am feeling much better but pretty weak, I'll keep my faithful readers posted... haha get it?

Boom. Posted.

Transitions.

2011-12-27T12:58:00.000-08:00

Recently, as in last night, I have decided that 2012 will be the year Lauren becomes a woman.

I know, I know, how could I become even more classy and sophisticated than I already am, right? Well I think there are a few areas I could improve on.

The first is wardrobe. I hate to say it but I think it is time for my Soffe shorts and wife beaters to bite the dust. Although they provided me with a wonderful look freshmen year of college... I think it is finally time to retire my old favorite ensemble.

The second is budgeting. Within the last few months I have decided that I need to develop some sort of a budget to keep me on the good savings end for the future. Also I want to be well and establish when I move on to my next chapter in life.

Which brings me to number three. My boyfriend Blake moved to Indianapolis a few weeks ago for a new and exciting job. I am very proud and happy for him but this leads to even further distance for our relationship and now the decision on my part for possibly moving out there.

Number four on the countdown to womanhood is health and fitness. I do not believe in diets but portion control and exercise... and I don't like either. Being an ex-gymnast and fairly hyperactive I have not had any problems with weight (obviously my nutrition sucks with the 'no vegetable' ordeal) but now I need to make sure I keep a healthy metabolism. Back to the gym I go.

Five would consist of not being so lazy all the time. I need to cook dinners and make cards and organize underneath my bed and clean the house... wait scratch that last one... and complete projects. There are so many things I skip over because it is easier to flop down on the couch and watch Big Bang Theory reruns. (Which, by the way, is the most hilarious of shows)

So I guess these are my New Year's Resolutions. Type to grow up and grow out... of town! I think I can do it.

Boom. Posted.

Tis the Season.

2011-12-26T22:20:00.000-08:00

My parents recently visited for the Thanksgiving holiday and after the festivities died down it was time to bust out the Christmas decor. Needless to say we waste little time and since its usually just the roommate and me, I did not put up a fight in their wanting to help.

Christmas is always a special time of year but not for things like traditions, the house I grew up in, or waking up to a snowy yard. Actually I don't have any of those things. But the random traditions my family thinks we are starting. Like the Christmas we spent all day watching "A Christmas Story" and decided it would be way better to go to a Chinese restaurant in Sketchville, Utah then to slave around making some sort of real meal. Turned out to be a little to sketchy so we went to the next best thing... the 24 hour Mexican joint, Betos. Delicioso et Feliz Navidad.

Or the Christmas my family moved from South Carolina to Arizona and we were not only unwrapping gifts... but our whole house. And my dad went crazy and bought himself a dozen Apple Products... and a Bowflex bench. Then the light in the pool went out and Dad and Nelly joined the Polar Bear Club to fix it. Also Coco wore this:

But going even further back, there was the year Santa brought Nelly and me two adorable hamsters. But somehow Santa didn't realize Mistletoe and Spot were of different genders and later that spring Santa surprised us with another gift... 10 hamster babies. It was awesome.

Oh and one time we were driving from South Carolina to Texas and were only two hours out when our old Winstar Van broke down and we waited for hours to ride back with "Bucky" the Tow Truck Driver. Then we had to shove everything in our old Ford Contour and then make the trek back out there. Not as much leg room.

The best Christmas as a kid was in Virginia when two sets of grandparents bought us the new Nintendo64 and we got a big trampoline for the backyard. Not to mention the acquiring of the Princes Diana Beanie Baby Bear, which was the best on the market at the time. We had it all back then.

The plan this year is for my dad's parents to fly in so it will be the three grandparents and their first and favorite grandchild. So I was hoping this was going to be a great Christmas.

Well my grandparents, Oma & PopPop, showed up Tuesday afternoon so I met them and the roommate for lunch and then they toured around my office for a bit before I had to get back to work. But before their arrival my uncle had wished me a "Very 'Gerry' Christmas". "Gerry?" I replied. And he explained "Geriatric." Oh the foreshadowing was uncanny.

We had a great time during their visit but it was a littler rough Skypeing my family in Alaska and cousin in New Jersey and who is talking of who and 'what did he say' and 'I can't see anything' and... it was rough. Then we ended up having Christmas on the 24th because my grandparents fly standby since my grandfather used to work for the airlines and he was worried there were not going to make it home for their many doctor's appointements. So he scheduled them to leave at 7:30am on Christmas morning. Yay.

After they left and we got home and I went back to bed at 6am, it was like total turn around. I turned into pathetic Lauren without her family and was bawling my eyes out uncontrollably watching my parents and brother open their presents in Alaska. Pitiful.

I did nothing all day but watch T.V. I skyped a little with Blake and we exchanged our presents. Then I mustered up enough gusto to go to the gym to try out my new Nike+ thingy and then I stayed up until midnight watching The Hangover II. Merry Christmas to Me.

Okay, enough with the pity party. Today was much better. The roommate and I ran a few errands before going to see Breaking Dawn this evening. Two of the errands included going to two different Einstein's Bagels to get 39 free bagels. That's right, FO FREE! One of my friends has them cater for her work all the time and she gave them to me. Clearly she knows me and my love for Einstein's so well.

The movie was the best they've made. I like this book the best so I am now anxious for part II. It took me this long to see the one today because I really do not like to two major actors. Oh well.

I hope you and yours and a very Merry Christmas or a Happy Hanukah or a happy time realizing you didn't have a Gerry Christmas :) Just kidding roomie!

Boom. Posted.

The Ups & the Downs.

2011-12-12T11:53:00.000-08:00

Last month the long, everlasting reign of my LG Lotus phone, otherwise known as 'the scrone', ended. It was a great Homecoming evening when, and without warning, the scrone fell through a 3 story staircase and did not survive to tell the tale.

I am still in the process of getting my old contacts back (those were lost in the great fall of 2011 as well). But its not so bad because my new iPHONE 4S has pulled my contacts from my Mac through the iCloud. Holy Moly it is so nice. Although, having the iPhone is almost equivalent to babysitting, I am in constant fear of dropping, losing, scratching or breaking it. But the paranoia is completely worth it. New phone pretty much equals new life.

This new life has brought about many things. I am constantly connected with everything and everyone. It gets obnoxious at times but I understand the joy in posting to Facebook that I am thoroughly enjoying a single serve apple pie and ice cream. I feel as though people need to know that, they want to know that. It is important to know that Lauren is alone and is providing herself with an individual apple pie.

Another great feature is Siri. Siri is a little device that is essentially the idea of calling up AskJeeves for whatever you want. Sometimes I be like "Yo Siri, what's the forecast, dawg" and she be all "I'm really sorry about this Lauren, but I cannot help you right now" and I be like "Siri, you trippin'"

No seriously, she can be helpful when she is connected to the network. Don't believe any of those stories you hear about her telling jokes and stuff... at least she won't for me. She could care less what I have to say to her.

She doesn't love me.

I have also been enjoying the many variety of apps on my new phone. Words with Friends is my most consistent one. I finally figured out that I need to try and use the double word and other point boosting columns, sheesh. Although this game is pretty ridiculous because I make up a word and it earns me 30 points but this won't fly:

Pull-ease.

Another thing that has happening recently, and very much unfortunately:

I backed into something and dented my poor little Tribby. Nothing makes you more sick to your stomach then damaging your car. Ugh. Luckily my parents came in for the Thanksgiving holiday and my dad and I had some bonding time over replacing the taillight and removing the bumper. All is well now.

There you go, update has been completely loaded.

Boom. Posted.

Even More Surprises.

2011-10-23T09:27:00.000-07:00

After Blake's surprise for my birthday, I knew I had to get him back. So did his father! He emailed me after he saw the video and proposed to buy me a ticket to to 'get Blake back'. How could I resist?

The Oregon vs. Arizona football game was coming up and all of the Blake's brothers would be together along with his mother, it was the perfect setup. Ryan and I flew out late Thursday night, and let me tell you, Ryan and I have been racking up the air miles together. He is a way better travel buddy then Nelson. Nelson won't let anything touch him and he always makes me sit in the middle. Even when it is a 12am flight out of Alaska and the other person next to me may or may not be pregnant and is the size of Humpty Dumpty.

So Blake had to work on Friday morning and I was nervous the whole week leading up to the surprise. I was afraid that we weren't gong to be able to get his reaction on tape, which was one of the most important aspects of the trip. I was even having nightmares that the surprise would fail or he would say things like "why are you even here..?" It was terrible.

After trying to come up with the best way to surprise him, we were hustling trying to beat him home. He lives in a new place now so I had to quickly run into his house with his mother who pseudo introduces me to his new roommates while I run to hideout in his room. Ryan, the cameraman, was with me and right before Blake busted down the door Ryan was fooling around, so he almost missed the big moment!

But it worked perfectly:

Of course, he had a way better reaction than my stupid one, but in all fairness he did scare me.

It was a great weekend. We got to spend a lot of time with his family
and went to the game.

His dad's younger brother and his family live near Portland so we spent most of the weekend with them. His grandparents are also OSU alum and they were there for the game.

We got to see his youngest brother rush Blake's fraternity. That was quite the event. They call it 'Jump' and the new pledges run out from the Union and literrally jump into the arms of their new fraternity.
Its a nice tradition. Also this Blue guy was running around all night. And you could see his tobacco can through his jumpsuit. He was just keeping things classy all around.

I don't know if I will be going up to Oregon again while Blake is in school so it was kind of a bittersweet weekend. The town is beautiful (minus the constant drizzle) and the campus is amazing.

It was a perfect weekend and I have Blake's father to thank.

Boom. Posted.

Playing Grown Up.

2011-10-23T08:59:00.000-07:00

I feel like a grown up these days...

I am finally at a point in my life where I can sleep with the closet door completely open and not stare at it for hours waiting for eyes to appear. I consider that quite an accomplishment considering how terrified I am of just life in general.

I have been establishing a professional wardrobe. I only very rarely leave my house looking like a slob. Just rarely.

I am not completely grown up though because if I can iron out a few wrinkles with my hair straightener than I still do. I feel as though I will never become a full adult until I can iron solely with an... iron.

I also have a credit card now. My first one. With.... a $500 a month spending limit, woo! I'm trying to build up some credit, you know, for the future, when I no longer live with my awesome roommate and have to pay bills... in five years.

I am becoming more and more involved at work (not completely, hence the time to write this post). I am close to obtaining a license to... sell, so that is pretty grown up, eh? And I am wearing professional clothes on a daily basis, boom... fashionista.

I recently discovered (well was informed by a friend who washed my car down at the clubhouse) that I had a nail in my front tire. Instead of freaking out completely, I figured out where to take it only to find that Discount Tires will patch and plug your tire... fo free! Also do a courtesy rotation, even if you didn't buy your tires from them. Life savers. While they were fixing everything up, I walked to a pizza place next door I had been wanting to try and ate lunch... by myself! I never like to do things by myself. And the pizza was delicious.

I have friends who are getting engaged and married and planing pregnancies.

I am starting to learn my way a little better around the city. Not completely though because I almost ended up in Mexcio when I was trying to go to my nail lady (whom I have been too over a dozen times). And I still have to turn the radio off the minute I realize I am lost. Concentration time. I need a GPS.

I am at job that is prominent in the community and am trusted to go to charity events with the university. Although, I did challenge one of the basketball players to a pull-up contest. I got to 6.... he got to like 36.

But I still can't eat vegetables.

Boom. Posted.

Wildlife Woes.

2011-09-17T22:20:00.000-07:00

I forgot to mention on my previous post Bugging Out , about a situation I experienced back in college while running errands with my good friend, Cassie. There we were driving along with the windows rolled down, enjoying the crisp Arizonan air, when all of the sudden something flew into the car. Cassie began looking around frantically to identify the new intruder and finally she found the culprit:

But let me tell you something, that thing did not look as majestic and carefree as this picture portrays. It was the most horrible locust we had ever seen and about the size of a smallish rodent. As soon as we both discovered what the thing that had entered our car so invasively was, Cassie shot to the back seat while I was left to pull over.

After I parked, we both jumped out of the car instantaneously. Ever since it had first looked us square in the eyes when it flew in, we had lost its location thus we began furiously (but from a safe distance I might add) searching for it. Once located we were even more helpless because we couldn't remove it. Finally, the wretched thing flew out and we continued on our merry way but we were slightly scarred.

Once we arrived home, I immediately got on the internet to classify this creature. I think I typed in something to the effect of "Grasshopper, huge, horrid", and the African Locust popped up. Terrifying.

I am remembering this story all too clearly recently because I was in the backyard doing some pool work and noticing that something has once again defecated in my spotless grotto. And this is humanish size feces people. I don't know what could have made its way in there after I sprayed Raid like a mad woman in there hoping it would back off the spiders and their webs. Apparently some small human is squatting into our grotto in the middle of the night. Either that or a bobcat.... I go with the former.

Anyway, I am brushing away when I notice this out of the corner of my eye. Not only is it the African Locust, it is two of them hoping to create more horrid locusts. But do not fret, I put a stop to that real quick with a little but of salty pool water. Killed the mood instantly.

There was no way I was just going to stand by and let this creepy things continue the reproductive circle of life. No freaking way.

Also, on my way home from work last night (I worked the fish fry again for the first time in months), there was a javelina hanging out on my driveway. Javelinas as beastly looking boars. This one even had a little circle of cactus stuck to its leg. I had to honk my horn so it would run away and I could safely open my garage door without fear it would park next to me. Luckily it ran away.

Then I noticed a coyote chasing a quail around on the side of the road leading to my neighborhood. That thing looked famished. And there was a tarantula on the sidewalk in my development the other night.

So don't worry, I'll tell you what you can deduce from all of this: I am sick of the wildlife that surounds me. Conveniently winter is fast approaching. Hibernation and hunting season. Get rid of 'em.

Boom. Posted.

A Wonderful Wedding in Charming Charleston

2011-09-17T13:50:00.000-07:00

Megan & Jared Davison

September 10, 2011

Charleston, South Carolina

I had the amazing experience of flying to Charleston this past weekend to be a bridesmaid for my dear friend Megan. She lives out in Philadelphia so not only was it wonderful for her to wed but it was just as great to see her in person.

Holden Beach, 2001

Megan and I met when my family first moved to South Carolina when I was about to start 6th grade. I knew that our neighbors had a girl my age so I moseyed on over to introduce myself and ask if she wanted to go on a bike ride. And yes, I did still have a hot pink Huffy.

She agreed and our friendship has continued to blossom ever since. Our families are close as well and needless to say, I knew this experience was going to be emotional.

And it was.

Luckily I got the worst of my pathetic and pitiful sobbing out at the rehearsal because I was truly afraid of not being able to contain myself. It was just too weird to know that my Megan was getting married. Of course I couldn't be happier for her and Jared, but it was still strange coming to terms with it all.

The trip was busy and filled with luncheons and rehearsals and Citadel boys and shrimp & grits. It was a very southern weeding weekend. And I loved every minute.

Usually I am not very fond of the south. I think the people are very nice but I prefer my west coast status. I thoroughly enjoyed zipping around Charleston and seeing the colleges in the area. These included College of Charleston and the Citadel. Megan's little sister attends CofC (Like Megan did) and her dorm is right next to an EINSTEINS BAGEL! ... but she has never been. WHAT? Also it accepts her meal plan... Let's just say if that were me, I would be cramming my face full of 'garlic toasted with plain shmear' every freaking day! She crazy.

Jared graduated from the Citadel and the Citadel Chapel was where the two had their ceremony. It was beautiful and needed no decoration. Also during the rehearsal I tried to convince the Priest that he should begin the ceremony with "Mawwiage, Mawwiage is what bwings us hewe togethew today" Like on the Princess Bride:

Hahaha, I think he was actually considering it.

The rehearsal dinner was out at a restaurant on the water. It was the perfect place for dinner, which was Low Country Boil. I am sure many of you have never had Low Country Boil and what it literally consists of is shrimp, boiled red potatoes, half corns on the cob, and sausage slices. That's it. I am used to it from our stays at the beach but it is not necessarily my favorite meal. So after I had my fill of potatoes and sausage (and I did eat 2 shrimp, Mom!) I was left to hang out with the flower girl and ring bearer.

The cutest little things I ever did see. Eventually there was a break dance contest between the three of them. I'll let you decide who the winner was:

All the moves in all the right places.

The ceremony the next day was just beautiful. We had a very relaxing day since the wedding was not until 6pm. The reception was at this old Charleston house, the Wickliffe House, it was the most stunning venue imaginable.

They had a the tent setup outside with the band and a dance floor. Abar outside and a bar inside. Food stations to include shrimp and grits. I have completely forgotten that grits even existed before my trip but those were the best grits I have ever had. Megan's mother told me it was the cream that made it so delicious.

After they announced the wedding party onto the dance floor, Megan and Jared had their first dance to Free by the Zac Brown Band. And then Megan danced with her father to Steven Curtis Chapman's Cinderella.

That would have been the time where I lost all of my bearings completely. I was bawling my eyes out. It was so touching. And then Megan's mother went out an joined them. Perfection.

The rest out the night was just nonstop excitement. Since I did not know many of the guests, I was hanging out with majority of the groomsmen all night and playing wingman for Megan's younger sister and cousin with the Citadel cadets. I told them I was a good wing man because I go in so completely obnoxious that the guys will have to choose to hang out with them in order to get away from me.... I think it worked.

Also by the end of the night, I convinced one of the cadets to let me try on his coat and hat, brilliant idea.

Needless to say it was a fun filled night. The happy couple drove off in an old black cab into the night. And they are still married to this day! (One week later)

Congratulations Megan and Jared, best wishes!

Boom. Posted.

What Happens in Vegas... goes on this blog.

2011-09-12T22:32:00.000-07:00

I have done a bit of traveling lately and the weekend during Blake's visit, we were going up to Vegas for his little brother's 21st birthday. Vegas is not usually a place that I am very fond of. I do not like crowded places, loud music for a long period of time, paying too much for anything, or inhaling large amounts of second hand smoke. Too bad that is pretty much the life blood that keeps good ole Vegas' devil heart pumpin'.

Regardless I was excited to celebrate Ryan's birthday and experience Vegas with Blake. The first night we ran across the strip to Surrender at Encore for a Lil Jon & Skrillex concert. The venue was around the pool and the place was packed. Naturally filled with too many people and blasting loud music but I was handling it okay. That was until the 5 hours of being in my 5 inch heels started to kick in, and then it was quittin' time. Lil Jon came on first and announced that he had been drinking all day and had no idea what he was going to play for us. The whole time he was up there there was a guy in like a Lil Jon mascot face and I know at the end of the show they put the real Lil Jon in there so he could make a clean getaway. I just know that's how they did it.

After the concert all I could say the whole trip was "My... Name.. Is... SKRILLEX" (Click on the link to hear the song) Just could not stop.

Then the next night we were supposed to either be hooked up at the Marquee in the Cosmopolitan or just wingin' it. We ended up stumbling upon the Chateaux at Paris where Akon was playing. That place was beyond crowded but we showed up just in time for Akon to start walking through the crowd to leave and guess who got a picture with him. ME.

Okay, okay. I know you can't really tell its him, but I would never lie about meeting Akon. Also I was talking to him for all of 3.5 seconds and I told him he looked great (apparently that is what I tell celebrities because I also said that to Craig Robinson when I met him earlier in the night) And he and Akon both said "You too, baby." Both of them!

I case you don't anything about my favorite show, Craig Robinson plays Darryl Philbin on The Office. I was so mad I did not ask him if he becomes Regional Manager or not. I bet he would have told me. Probably.

We went to Bond at the Cosmo later that night and that little bar was pretty cool. Anything and everything at that hotel is cool. We also checked out Shadow Bar at Caesar's Palace, now that place is crazy.

I also got a picture with Nicole whoever, the lead singer of the Pussycat Dolls. She wasn't as impressive.

Well I guess she was really unimpressive because I must have deleted the picture I actually got with her. Or its on Blake's phone. Either way, unimpressive.

We went on the New York, New York roller coaster this trip which I was not able to do one of the times I was in Vegas before for a gymnastics meet. Nor was I allowed to go on any of the rides at Circus Circus, and this was how I felt about that:

Not. Happy.

We stayed at Bally's which was a prime location and the view out of our window was the Eiffel Tower from the Paris Hotel. One the second night after Chateaux we were headed back to our room when I noticed one of the doors in the hallway propped open with music and voices coming from it. So me and my bold self decided to knock and then proceed to open the door to see what all the scuttlebutt was about. Turns out these guys had this party going on in their humungous suite (with full up bar) right down the hall from us and I quickly made friends. They invited us in and the party continued where we met some girls from Malibu. The next day at the pool, these girls recognized me (the notary, however, was not necessarily mutual) and they were our new tagalongs for the rest of the trip. Well Ryan made some fast friends.

The girls supposedly set up a reservation for us to eat at Tao but when we get to the Venetian and then to Tao it turned out the reservation was just NEAR Tao. Just near it. At this Cheesecake Factory type place called the Grand Luxe. The food was good but we had our group of five, these five girls, and then these random Asian guys that the girls had met earlier. Our server brings one check for the 15 of us and we are just about to start divvying everything up when one of the Asian guys plucks the check off the table and sticks his credit card in. $400 tab at least. Ballin'.

Later that night we met up with one of Blake's friends who lives in Vegas who knows all the bartenders and bouncers around so we get free drinks all night at V Bar. The Tropicana was the next stop (I'm thinking 'oh great, really?') so we hop in a cab and the girl says we are going to have to take the freeway. Well these guys are telling her 'no way' and tell her she has to make a u-turn or they won't pay her a dime. Meanwhile I am scared out of my mind in the back seat as the girl flips the u-turn on two wheels practically and radios for the police to meet them at the Tropicana. Perfect.

She drives like a maniac the whole way there, I am trying to tell the guys to shut up but they live there so what do I know, and the guys keep going on and on about her ripping them off, and I want to die.

We finally skid into the drop off at the hotel with no cops waiting for us so I sprint to get inside and away from all the nonsense while one of the guys from my group (who isn't totally rude/crazy out of his mind) tries to pay her with a good tip because he felt so bad but she wouldn't take any of it. Nightmare.

But the Tropicana was so nice. They had done some serious remodeling and the club there would have been awesome had there been more that 20 people there. The club had windows out to the pool that had also been remodeled and had teepees for cabanas. Teepees! But we ha more free drinks and I was sick of people anyway so I was good to go. Also we closed down the place so Blake got the DJ to place Tipsy for me. It just felt like a good one to end the night on.

Then everyone left one by one the next morning and Ryan and I were so Vegased out that we headed to the airport 3 hours early. We were hurtin'. Also I saw Ice T and Coco at the airport. I should be a celebrity blogger like Perez Hilton at this point.

Boom. VEGASED.

Full of Surprises.

2011-08-21T19:37:00.000-07:00

This past year has been a complete 180 from where I thought I might be at this point. Everything has changed for the better in every way, I have completed my Master's, I have a full time job that fell into my lap, I have the opportunity to save up my money before leaving my wonderful roommate to live on my own, I am continuing to live near my friends, and best of all I have dated my boyfriend Blake for almost an entire year now.

From this:

To this:

A whole year of going back and forth from Oregon to Arizona to Colorado and soon to Vegas. A lot of traveling to keep up this long distance relationship but it has been one of the most exciting years of my short little life. A lot of surprises that I never saw coming.

Blake and I have actually known each other since the summer of July 2004. Our families were both new to Utah and we were expected to be neighbors. I met him out at the pool and thought he was the cutest guy I'd ever seen. We became really close friends and had feelings for each other that we couldn't place. Or at least I couldn't and wasn't necessarily ready for. I didn't want to lose his friendship if something went wrong and things usually went wrong with my relationships ( if you could even call them that).

Here is when he came to my highschool Christmas Formal:

Eventually my family moved to Arizona and I began college. We tried to keep in touch but it was hard, especially when we had our own lives going on. After I graduated and my parents moved to Alaska, I was staying up there for the summer and Blake and I reconnected. We would Skype all the time and I started to realize that I wanted to be more than just his 'best friend'. We had decided that when he and his father were going to be in Arizona for a fraternity conference, that they should come down for the night so we could see each other.

That night changed our friendship into something more when Blake told me he wanted to be with me and had wanted to for a long time. When I told him that I felt the same way there was a new issue to deal with, the distance. We decide to be in a hypothetical relationship because it would be too hard to maintain anything across the country. But when he came down for a week in August, things were finally made official on the 30th. The reality of the situation was starting to set in but became increasingly worse through this past year through trying to see each other as much as possible.

As hard as the distance is, though, I believe it will only makes us better in the end. I lost some of my independency in college and the distance was helping me to learn to stand on my own two feet, even when I have someone to carry me sometimes. It has been a crazy year but I don't think I could have done it with anyone else.

That's pretty much the story of how we met and why we are together now (maybe plus or minus a few details...). BUT its pretty close :)

The distance is obviously hard day-to-day but even more so when special occasions such as birthdays and holidays are missed. This year my birthday was on a Tuesday this ast month and since I had already started working full time and Blake was in summer school, I knew having him come visit just wasn't going to work out. This summer has been the longest time we were going to go without seeing each other, a whole 3 months.

Well my birthday comes and goes and I never got so much as a card from Blake, so of course I'm thinking "whadaheck"? Well he insists that there is a package in the mail that should have been there by now so he is sorry it didn't make it in time. Okay, I can wait for it. He also said that since our weeks were so busy we should set up a time to have a Skype date for a couple hours where we have enough to time to maybe eat dinner together (oh yeah, this is what our lives in long distance have come to) and maybe watch a movie. So that was decided to happen after I got home for work on Friday.

The work day was long and miserable and when I walk in the door I am hustling around because I don't want him to be waiting around for me. When I walk past the kitchen, the roommate yells "Your package is here!" So I am excited but still trying to hurry. I walk out of my room and into the living room to see Coco going nuts and she scratches my leg, this is what happened next:

Biggest surprise of my life. I had no idea, none whatsoever. Also I sound like the biggest whiner when I am yelling at the poor dog who is only freaking out because of the strange man in her house.

Isn't my boyfriend just the best in the whole world? The funniest thing was that even though Blake was standing right in front of me, I was still feeling like I needed to rush to get onto the computer for our date!

Total shock. Best weekend ever.

Boom. Posted.

A Day In the Life.

2011-08-20T10:25:00.000-07:00

This whole summer I have been begging for routine. I just wanted to be able to have a day-to-day schedule where I could feel accomplished and tired by the end of the day. But really with my maybe 3 hours a week of working at the golf course, finishing up my online courses and sometimes seeing my friends...my life was taking a nosedive into extraordinarily boring.

I would sleep in until about 10am.. 11am.. who am I kidding, I was sleeping in until NOON. I would force myself out of bed and then go park it on the couch for a good couple hours. Then I might eat some lunch, just look at the pool in my backyard, sometimes go to the golf course to either work or hit balls for 10 minutes. Then I would lounge around some more, maybe run one or two errands, eat dinner, Skype with Blake for an hour or so, and then not be able to fall asleep until around 1am which of course called for the freakiest dreams of my adult life.

That's how the summer started off. It is now ending with me forcing my self awake at 6:40am... just to lay in bed for another 20mins. Finally getting up and rushing to get ready before I have to leave at 7:30am. Then I get to work and sit in my cubicle

Its a nice little area, but it can get a little cramped. I do have a beautiful view of the mountains though:

At work I usually do busywork things that the ladies give me because they have way too many other things to work on (which is promising for my future) and I sit in front of the computer all day. Before when I didn't have anything to do, I would look up the news on every website, check out every little thing on pinterest.com, and I even was so bored that I went to the Einstein Bagels website and wrote to them saying they should consider opening one the east side of the city because I would eat there everyday. Oh yeah, it happened. I also got a lot of split end trimming in. Now I have no time for games, just data input.

Then, on my way home, I have been seeing a chiropractor (which is awesome) so I get aligned in about 5 minutes and continue on my merry way. I am just doing it for this month of August so I am trying to get my money's worth by stopping in everyday.

When I get home I notice the roommate usually has nothing for dinner so I have to scrounge for food. Then I sit on the couch and watch my shows until about 9pm when I start getting ready for bed. I am now asleep (completely out) by 10:30pm. And I asked for routine??

On the weekends I get laundry done, go to the range and sometimes go out with the girls. I feel as though I have finally reached adulthood... and now I'm over it! I just want to learn how to play golf...

Boom. Posted.

Bugging Out.

2011-08-08T22:08:00.000-07:00

I am 'bugging out' for a number of reasons.

This first beings with a picture my mother sent me a few days ago where she photoshopped my head onto a girl in her pajamas with a shadow of Peter Pan on the wall with the script "You know that place between sleep and awake? That place where you can still remember dreaming. That's where I'll always love. THAT'S WHERE I WILL BE WAITING!"

Can you picture it? I cannot post it. Probably for the better, since it is so terrifying.

I am also 'bugging out' because my house is filled with creepy crawlers. They are on the wall, the floor, in my bed, on me... its disgusting and turning me into a paranoid freak. These bugs are like drawn to me. One time I was grabbing my towel after a shower and as I puled it off the rack this nickel-size spider crawls right out... BAAAAH! Jeeblie jeeblie the worst feeling ever. Also today I was walking out of the gym and something flew right into my neck. I think it was aiming for my jugular.

But all of that pales in comparison to this one particular bug that has reared its ugly face in my house a little over several times. It all started when my brother was home alone for a few weeks and I was still in college. I get a phone call from him and he is asking me to look up on google an 'ant with antlers'. What?

He said there was a humungous ant that had antlers in the house earlier and he wanted to know what it was. Obviously I couldn't find anything and eventually forgot about the situation.

Until one day I was eating something at the dinner table and went to reach for a napkin out of our center utensil/napkin holder and while I pull the napkin out of the slot, this thing comes flying out along with it. It was an ANT WITH ANTLERS! Oh I almost died, almost. It makes my knees weak just thinking about it.

Ugh I just tried to find a picture of the horrid thing and now I feel like I have ants all over me. They have a name but of course I cannot remember it. Something like Spawnus satanus.

Boom. Squished.