Today was meh! Woke up for my "Monday" at work. What's worse is that I had to sit at the IRS office for another hour, just to hand the Asian lady my paper and hear her chastise me for owing money, with just cause, even though I couldn't understand a word she was saying and I didn't have the time.
The only real excitement was the fact that I bought my STAGECOACH FESTIVAL tickets!!! So excited for it. Also bought a camping spot. Anyone else that is going, hit me up! We got 300 square feet and we can cram as many people as possible into that spot! It's a good party, and anyone that knows me knows what an "epic" night I had last year! No repeats will be had this year, but good times will occur!
After work, I headed home to make dinner for my dad and me, which was nice. I attempted Dijon and Parmesean crusted chicken breast, with corn and creamed spinach. It wasn't bad. Pictures on facebook of my cooking. We also watch Valkyrie. How did I not know of this attempted assassination of Hitler? Must have been asleep.
After the movie, my dad left for work at The Happiest Place on Earth! and I watched American Idol and House! This was pretty much it today. Zzzz. Time for bed now. Until tomorrow, there's day 26 of 365!
(are there actually 365 days this year?)
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
1.25.10
While I woke up super excited today, I was still moving pretty slowly. Even though I was going snowboarding, there's only two things that get me up from bed quickly and one of those things is golf. Don't worry about the other ;). After getting all my things loaded up, I headed to Mt. Baldy, skipping the stop at the bank to put some money in.
Last night, a friend of mine said she and two of her friends were going to be at Baldy today too, so I figured I'd meet up with them at some point on the mountain. While nice to have some company, I was going to be snowboarding regardless of whether or not I was alone. After all, it's been three years since I last strapped in and this was one of the biggest snow dumps SoCal has seen in years. I wasn't going to miss it!
After driving up to the parking lot twice - once not knowing I needed a special pass since my puny two-wheel drive wasn't allowed into the parking lot, which required me to drive back down ten minutes, then back up - I got to the lift ticket line, $10 off coupon in hand. This was probably my only real complaint of the day; the line for tickets took FOR-EV-ER!
Ticket attached, I headed straight to the top, wondering if I'd remember how to do this and how many times I'd look like an idiot. Fortunately, after a few cuts, things started to come back and I got back into it in no time. It was a perfect day! Sunny, warm and not very crowded. I was glad I wore a T-shirt and light windbreaker, because I was getting hot! In fact, there was a "dude" wearing shorts and a tank top skiing around! I got a few runs in, then decided to look around for my friends. As I was looking around I heard, "Hi Kyle!" from the chair lift up from the ticket line. What timing!
The three girls, Kacie, Breanne and Laura, got off the chair lift as I took pictures of them falling. The four of us took a couple runs then stopped at the bar for some beer and food! This is where the fun began!
After drinking a few beers, we decided to get back out and do a few more runs before it got too cold and started closing. By now, the clouds were creeping in. Kacie and I were standing outside waiting for the other two girls, when she started complaining that her brand new DC boots were already missing a decal. This is when she told me something along the lines of, "That little logo missing is like fate. I have something to tell you, but I'll wait till the end of the day. But you're going to adore me forever." After a few minutes of me pestering her to just tell me now and that they'd probably leave or get separated so she should just save the drama and tell me, I gave up and we all started off down the hill.
After the first run, Breanne and I decided to go up, while Kacie and Laura decided to call it quits. Coming down the very first run, Breanne and I got separated, so I did about four more runs on my own.
It was getting cold and looking like rain, so I headed down to my car. Upon arrival of my car, I noticed I was missing something. My wallet. I F-R-E-A-K-E-D! I immediately grabbed my board, went up to the ticket office and asked them to call up to the bar and see if they found it. They didn't. :( I nearly cried. I had my entire paycheck in there! As I was filling out my information, in case it was turned in, the "dude" with the shorts and tank top, who was standing there listening, said, "Hey. What'd you lose?" I explained and this was the next few exchanges:
"Where's the blonde that was next to you?"
"We got separated, why?"
"She didn't tell you?"
"Tell me what? WAIT! She told me that she had something to tell me, but she was going to make me wait, and that I'd adore her forever. Does she have my wallet?"
"She really didn't tell you? What a bitch!"
(Nodding in agreeance) "Seriously!? That would make sense!"
"I saw her pick it up, and asked her how much was inside so we could split it. She said it was her ex-boyfriends and that she had to give it to him. So how much was in there anyway?"
"Well over $1,000!"
"WHAT?!!? She screwed ME too!"
(awkward laugh by me) I thanked him for telling me, so I didn't have to cry the entire way home.
I headed back to my car, both relieved and thinking about how I'd act when I saw Kacie next. While changing, Laura came up to me asking where Breanne was. I thought she was joking at first, and was really coming to give me my wallet, but she wasn't. I headed up to their car to get my wallet, and found Kacie sleeping. So I pounded on the window to startle her, then gave her a little sign language. I think I wished her a merry christmas, I could be wrong. ;) She laughed.
It turns out that when she noticed that her logo was missing on the boot, she went back in to try and find it and while looking around the floor, found my wallet that fell out because I didn't zip my pocket. I told her the story from the "dude" and asked her if she looked in the wallet. She said nope, so I opened it for her, showing her the cash that I decided NOT to deposit on the way up. Laura and her both yelled in unison, "Why do you have that much cash on you! Who does that?" I'll tell you who. This guy! The guy that thinks, "What are the chances of me actually losing my wallet?" Well, now I know! A very, VERY, valuable lesson! Funny to them, not so much to me!
Kacie being Kacie, told me that I owe her! I couldn't deny it. She saved me big time. Losing that much money around the first of the month is the worst thing that could happen to me, financially. Laura voiced her opinion, that I should take BOTH of them to sushi, to which I nodded sure, but I'll wait to see what Kacie demands, as she is the one that saved me.
Breanne finally came down to the car and we parted ways. While walking back to my car, in sandals no less, I was trying to be careful to not step in puddles and completely soak myself. My cautiousness backfired as I flailed around for a solid five seconds (that I wish I had on tape) and BAM! down I went. And what do you do when you fall? Put your hand down to brace yourself. Well my hand was holding my iPhone, and the two went straight into a puddle. Although it's working OK now, it was freaking out on the drive home with random vibrations, the ipod coming on and off and other little issues. I did get a few sympathy claps from two guys getting in their car though. I needed to get home and go to bed to avoid any more disasters! That is, if I could make it down this slippery road!
I made it home intact, unpacked my car, popped a beer, and watched some TV. Overall, a great day with some great luck thrown in. And boy am I glad the three stooges came! Otherwise the "dude" would have a whole new wardrobe of tank tops and shorts to ski in! Until tomorrow, there's a very interesting, up and down day 25 of 365.
Last night, a friend of mine said she and two of her friends were going to be at Baldy today too, so I figured I'd meet up with them at some point on the mountain. While nice to have some company, I was going to be snowboarding regardless of whether or not I was alone. After all, it's been three years since I last strapped in and this was one of the biggest snow dumps SoCal has seen in years. I wasn't going to miss it!
After driving up to the parking lot twice - once not knowing I needed a special pass since my puny two-wheel drive wasn't allowed into the parking lot, which required me to drive back down ten minutes, then back up - I got to the lift ticket line, $10 off coupon in hand. This was probably my only real complaint of the day; the line for tickets took FOR-EV-ER!
Ticket attached, I headed straight to the top, wondering if I'd remember how to do this and how many times I'd look like an idiot. Fortunately, after a few cuts, things started to come back and I got back into it in no time. It was a perfect day! Sunny, warm and not very crowded. I was glad I wore a T-shirt and light windbreaker, because I was getting hot! In fact, there was a "dude" wearing shorts and a tank top skiing around! I got a few runs in, then decided to look around for my friends. As I was looking around I heard, "Hi Kyle!" from the chair lift up from the ticket line. What timing!
The three girls, Kacie, Breanne and Laura, got off the chair lift as I took pictures of them falling. The four of us took a couple runs then stopped at the bar for some beer and food! This is where the fun began!
After drinking a few beers, we decided to get back out and do a few more runs before it got too cold and started closing. By now, the clouds were creeping in. Kacie and I were standing outside waiting for the other two girls, when she started complaining that her brand new DC boots were already missing a decal. This is when she told me something along the lines of, "That little logo missing is like fate. I have something to tell you, but I'll wait till the end of the day. But you're going to adore me forever." After a few minutes of me pestering her to just tell me now and that they'd probably leave or get separated so she should just save the drama and tell me, I gave up and we all started off down the hill.
After the first run, Breanne and I decided to go up, while Kacie and Laura decided to call it quits. Coming down the very first run, Breanne and I got separated, so I did about four more runs on my own.
It was getting cold and looking like rain, so I headed down to my car. Upon arrival of my car, I noticed I was missing something. My wallet. I F-R-E-A-K-E-D! I immediately grabbed my board, went up to the ticket office and asked them to call up to the bar and see if they found it. They didn't. :( I nearly cried. I had my entire paycheck in there! As I was filling out my information, in case it was turned in, the "dude" with the shorts and tank top, who was standing there listening, said, "Hey. What'd you lose?" I explained and this was the next few exchanges:
"Where's the blonde that was next to you?"
"We got separated, why?"
"She didn't tell you?"
"Tell me what? WAIT! She told me that she had something to tell me, but she was going to make me wait, and that I'd adore her forever. Does she have my wallet?"
"She really didn't tell you? What a bitch!"
(Nodding in agreeance) "Seriously!? That would make sense!"
"I saw her pick it up, and asked her how much was inside so we could split it. She said it was her ex-boyfriends and that she had to give it to him. So how much was in there anyway?"
"Well over $1,000!"
"WHAT?!!? She screwed ME too!"
(awkward laugh by me) I thanked him for telling me, so I didn't have to cry the entire way home.
I headed back to my car, both relieved and thinking about how I'd act when I saw Kacie next. While changing, Laura came up to me asking where Breanne was. I thought she was joking at first, and was really coming to give me my wallet, but she wasn't. I headed up to their car to get my wallet, and found Kacie sleeping. So I pounded on the window to startle her, then gave her a little sign language. I think I wished her a merry christmas, I could be wrong. ;) She laughed.
It turns out that when she noticed that her logo was missing on the boot, she went back in to try and find it and while looking around the floor, found my wallet that fell out because I didn't zip my pocket. I told her the story from the "dude" and asked her if she looked in the wallet. She said nope, so I opened it for her, showing her the cash that I decided NOT to deposit on the way up. Laura and her both yelled in unison, "Why do you have that much cash on you! Who does that?" I'll tell you who. This guy! The guy that thinks, "What are the chances of me actually losing my wallet?" Well, now I know! A very, VERY, valuable lesson! Funny to them, not so much to me!
Kacie being Kacie, told me that I owe her! I couldn't deny it. She saved me big time. Losing that much money around the first of the month is the worst thing that could happen to me, financially. Laura voiced her opinion, that I should take BOTH of them to sushi, to which I nodded sure, but I'll wait to see what Kacie demands, as she is the one that saved me.
Breanne finally came down to the car and we parted ways. While walking back to my car, in sandals no less, I was trying to be careful to not step in puddles and completely soak myself. My cautiousness backfired as I flailed around for a solid five seconds (that I wish I had on tape) and BAM! down I went. And what do you do when you fall? Put your hand down to brace yourself. Well my hand was holding my iPhone, and the two went straight into a puddle. Although it's working OK now, it was freaking out on the drive home with random vibrations, the ipod coming on and off and other little issues. I did get a few sympathy claps from two guys getting in their car though. I needed to get home and go to bed to avoid any more disasters! That is, if I could make it down this slippery road!
I made it home intact, unpacked my car, popped a beer, and watched some TV. Overall, a great day with some great luck thrown in. And boy am I glad the three stooges came! Otherwise the "dude" would have a whole new wardrobe of tank tops and shorts to ski in! Until tomorrow, there's a very interesting, up and down day 25 of 365.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
1.24.10
Crap. It seems that when I have the most time to actually write my blog here, are the times I don't. Oh well.
Woke up early to golf today. Shocking right? I ended up playing like crap today, but still enjoyed it and was lucky to have the other two guys play equally as crappy, thus saving me what could have been a really expensive day!
After golf I headed home to watch me some NFL playoffs. I really wanted to watch them outside somewhere though, because it was SO beautiful out. Seriously. The rain washed all the stink away, and it was perfect weather. BUT, I was alone and decided to just go home and watch it with a nice cold beer! :) I was in a very good mood.
After the game I took a shower and got ready to go out to dinner with two great friends, Ryan and Ralph. The three of us used to go out a lot more, but schedules and living situations have made it more difficult. It was nice how easily this dinner was set up, though, and I was excited to see them. Both of these guys have always been there for me. They give me advice, call me out when I'm making excuses, and are both hilarious and good people. Plus, we were going to one of my favorite restaurants, Z'tejas!
The dinner, the company and the conversation was great, as expected. I was particularly interested to hear Ralph's views on my whole "late twenties crisis." He reminded me that it doesn't matter what other people are doing, what I think about where they're at in their lives and how "made" it seems everyone else is, because I don't know the particulars of their lives and their feelings. For all I know, they could be thinking that I have everything figured out and they're the ones that are lost. So simple, yet so hard to keep in mind. I need to figure out what I want to do with my life FOR ME, not because of what everyone else is doing. Unfortunate part is I haven't really got a clue! I need a little luck and/or someone to help me find that golden egg haha!
After dinner, I headed home and simply hung out with Jim watching TV. I smiled looking back at a fun day doing the things I love and with good people on an amazingly beautiful day. Until tomorrow, there's day 24 of 365.
Woke up early to golf today. Shocking right? I ended up playing like crap today, but still enjoyed it and was lucky to have the other two guys play equally as crappy, thus saving me what could have been a really expensive day!
After golf I headed home to watch me some NFL playoffs. I really wanted to watch them outside somewhere though, because it was SO beautiful out. Seriously. The rain washed all the stink away, and it was perfect weather. BUT, I was alone and decided to just go home and watch it with a nice cold beer! :) I was in a very good mood.
After the game I took a shower and got ready to go out to dinner with two great friends, Ryan and Ralph. The three of us used to go out a lot more, but schedules and living situations have made it more difficult. It was nice how easily this dinner was set up, though, and I was excited to see them. Both of these guys have always been there for me. They give me advice, call me out when I'm making excuses, and are both hilarious and good people. Plus, we were going to one of my favorite restaurants, Z'tejas!
The dinner, the company and the conversation was great, as expected. I was particularly interested to hear Ralph's views on my whole "late twenties crisis." He reminded me that it doesn't matter what other people are doing, what I think about where they're at in their lives and how "made" it seems everyone else is, because I don't know the particulars of their lives and their feelings. For all I know, they could be thinking that I have everything figured out and they're the ones that are lost. So simple, yet so hard to keep in mind. I need to figure out what I want to do with my life FOR ME, not because of what everyone else is doing. Unfortunate part is I haven't really got a clue! I need a little luck and/or someone to help me find that golden egg haha!
After dinner, I headed home and simply hung out with Jim watching TV. I smiled looking back at a fun day doing the things I love and with good people on an amazingly beautiful day. Until tomorrow, there's day 24 of 365.
Sunday, January 24, 2010
1.23.10
I woke up late today, shocking, and made it to work in time to realize that the day was going to be long and boring. And that it was. Until around 3:00 when customers actually started to come in. Sold a few things and felt good about my time there today, but couldn't wait for the FUN part of the day to start.
I came home, saved $0.17/gallon on gas -it's the little things, right?- and got ready for the rest of the night. I drove up to Studio City for some nice (free) dinner, some great wine and company, some tax signatures, and then headed to a show I purchased tickets for.
The show, "A Big, Gay, North Hollywood Wedding" was absolutely hilarious, entertaining, and well, gay. haha But anyone that knows me knows I love the gays and they love me. Wait... I guess I mean, I'm open to gays. No! Not that either. I love gay people and think they're treated terrible and unfairly. I support them and their rights 110%. And this show was hilarious and I'd recommend it to the biggest homophobes and even bet them $100 that there would be no way they wouldn't laugh their ass off! So yes, I'm promoting their show (go to goldstar.com and get tickets for like $16) and you should ALL go see it.
After the show, I started driving home and debated going to cowboy country. It was the "official PBR afterparty" and from what I had heard, last year was wall-to-wall people. I'm not a fan of this, so I was 75-25 headed home. I got a text from a friend though saying it was busy, but not PACKED, so I decided to go. When I got there, I learned my friend was a liar. ha! Regardless of the overcrowded place, I headed straight for the dance floor and got about three two-steps in within ten minutes. Worth it already. From here on, the night just kept getting better.
After a few more two-steps and a couple line dances, I took some time to get ignored at the bar, and make some conversation with some people that hadn't been there for a few weeks. I was having a great time having some awesome awkward, hard-to-hear, sarcastic conversations with a new friend and even dancing with some new people. Glad I came.
Then I walked back to my "area" to be greeted with a, "Don't freak out with what I'm about to tell you." I immediately thought my nice leather jacket was stolen, with my car keys inside. Turns out someone just yacked all over it, covering it with what looked like a little vodka-cran, some salsa and chips, and maybe a little Del Taco. Much better than being stolen, right? Win!
Not happy, I tried to get a paper towel and wipe some of the party mixture off, when I realized that this shit had some hardening components added in. Too much detail for you? Feeling nauseous? Yeah, well try having to carry it around with that smell an wondering if your hand is in a safe place. So I shoved it in a plastic trash bag and put it out of mouth's reach and continued having a good time.
I ended up having a brief, but interesting conversation with a super cool chick, who thought I looked angelic and religious at first (ha! fooled!), and she helped me remember what I couldn't remember that I wanted to say yesterday, I think. It was that I felt that while writing this blog I should be working more on entertaining you, whomever you are that's reading, as these posts have been rather boring lately. I feel like these posts are explaining my day, but not ME and the details of each thought and how it affects me. I feel like it's almost lacking personality. It's missing that Kyle touch, that would allow you to better understand me. But at the same time, I also feel like this is a part of me that most people don't know. Like the title of my blog, Beyond the funny, the forehead and the frivolity.
This "cool chick" said that it was like I was a few different people. The in-person Kyle, the facebook Kyle (aka bored as hell Kyle), and the blog Kyle. Meh. Maybe that's where my whole confusion of what to do with life lies. I don't really know who I am yet and which variety and combination works best to merge all my schizophrenic personalities ;). Blech. Sounds like a damn Dear Abby letter. I don't even know if any of this makes sense right now, and I'm not going to go back to reread it. I'm tired. It's 2:39am and I have to be up in about four hours for golf. I'll read this again tomorrow and make any necessary edits! Until then, there's day 23 of 365!
I came home, saved $0.17/gallon on gas -it's the little things, right?- and got ready for the rest of the night. I drove up to Studio City for some nice (free) dinner, some great wine and company, some tax signatures, and then headed to a show I purchased tickets for.
The show, "A Big, Gay, North Hollywood Wedding" was absolutely hilarious, entertaining, and well, gay. haha But anyone that knows me knows I love the gays and they love me. Wait... I guess I mean, I'm open to gays. No! Not that either. I love gay people and think they're treated terrible and unfairly. I support them and their rights 110%. And this show was hilarious and I'd recommend it to the biggest homophobes and even bet them $100 that there would be no way they wouldn't laugh their ass off! So yes, I'm promoting their show (go to goldstar.com and get tickets for like $16) and you should ALL go see it.
After the show, I started driving home and debated going to cowboy country. It was the "official PBR afterparty" and from what I had heard, last year was wall-to-wall people. I'm not a fan of this, so I was 75-25 headed home. I got a text from a friend though saying it was busy, but not PACKED, so I decided to go. When I got there, I learned my friend was a liar. ha! Regardless of the overcrowded place, I headed straight for the dance floor and got about three two-steps in within ten minutes. Worth it already. From here on, the night just kept getting better.
After a few more two-steps and a couple line dances, I took some time to get ignored at the bar, and make some conversation with some people that hadn't been there for a few weeks. I was having a great time having some awesome awkward, hard-to-hear, sarcastic conversations with a new friend and even dancing with some new people. Glad I came.
Then I walked back to my "area" to be greeted with a, "Don't freak out with what I'm about to tell you." I immediately thought my nice leather jacket was stolen, with my car keys inside. Turns out someone just yacked all over it, covering it with what looked like a little vodka-cran, some salsa and chips, and maybe a little Del Taco. Much better than being stolen, right? Win!
Not happy, I tried to get a paper towel and wipe some of the party mixture off, when I realized that this shit had some hardening components added in. Too much detail for you? Feeling nauseous? Yeah, well try having to carry it around with that smell an wondering if your hand is in a safe place. So I shoved it in a plastic trash bag and put it out of mouth's reach and continued having a good time.
I ended up having a brief, but interesting conversation with a super cool chick, who thought I looked angelic and religious at first (ha! fooled!), and she helped me remember what I couldn't remember that I wanted to say yesterday, I think. It was that I felt that while writing this blog I should be working more on entertaining you, whomever you are that's reading, as these posts have been rather boring lately. I feel like these posts are explaining my day, but not ME and the details of each thought and how it affects me. I feel like it's almost lacking personality. It's missing that Kyle touch, that would allow you to better understand me. But at the same time, I also feel like this is a part of me that most people don't know. Like the title of my blog, Beyond the funny, the forehead and the frivolity.
This "cool chick" said that it was like I was a few different people. The in-person Kyle, the facebook Kyle (aka bored as hell Kyle), and the blog Kyle. Meh. Maybe that's where my whole confusion of what to do with life lies. I don't really know who I am yet and which variety and combination works best to merge all my schizophrenic personalities ;). Blech. Sounds like a damn Dear Abby letter. I don't even know if any of this makes sense right now, and I'm not going to go back to reread it. I'm tired. It's 2:39am and I have to be up in about four hours for golf. I'll read this again tomorrow and make any necessary edits! Until then, there's day 23 of 365!
Saturday, January 23, 2010
1.22.10
PAY DAY! The only real reason not to call into work sick! Work was work today, no need to get into details. Nothing exciting happened except for one of my bosses telling me to pick up the other boss, who as stranded at the Jack in the Box directly behind our store, because it was raining and he didn't have an umbrella. I'll be damned if I was going to get all wet from it, so I drove there only to find that he decided to walk back umbrellaless. This is the point where I would stare directly into the camera with a look of annoyance, a la Jim from The Office, if I had my own show. But I do not.
There was something I wanted to write about while I was driving home from work, but I don't remember what it was. Phew. So glad I wrote that! :-/ Good story huh?
I got home and ate some leftovers and got ready to go dance at Cowboy Country, shocker, but missed getting there before the cover started! Boooo to $5 cover. Learned another new dance and spent another solid five hours dancing and socializing. It was one of the regular's birthday, and another regular made the MOST amazing blueberry cheesecake. I had two pieces, and I wanted a third. Seriously. Amazing. He does his own little bakery thing on the side, and if you ever need some amazing bakery items, let me know! He has also made some damn good Red Velvet Cupcakes! He should get a website!
I think I danced too hard though, because in the middle of my time there I had to take some Vitamin I for my feet! I guess I was stomping too hard. Oh well. Worth it.
I'm home now, and it's time for bed. Until tomorrow, there's day 22 of 365.
There was something I wanted to write about while I was driving home from work, but I don't remember what it was. Phew. So glad I wrote that! :-/ Good story huh?
I got home and ate some leftovers and got ready to go dance at Cowboy Country, shocker, but missed getting there before the cover started! Boooo to $5 cover. Learned another new dance and spent another solid five hours dancing and socializing. It was one of the regular's birthday, and another regular made the MOST amazing blueberry cheesecake. I had two pieces, and I wanted a third. Seriously. Amazing. He does his own little bakery thing on the side, and if you ever need some amazing bakery items, let me know! He has also made some damn good Red Velvet Cupcakes! He should get a website!
I think I danced too hard though, because in the middle of my time there I had to take some Vitamin I for my feet! I guess I was stomping too hard. Oh well. Worth it.
I'm home now, and it's time for bed. Until tomorrow, there's day 22 of 365.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
1.21.10
Waking up to rain is SO much more difficult than waking up to sunlight. It makes me want to just stay in bed. But alas, I got up and headed to work. I had to take an alternate route, cause this crazy huge storm that SoCal is getting is making everyone retarded on the freeway. Got to work about ten minutes late and headed straight for the coffee. Mmmmm! Nothing special happened beyond getting a free soup for lunch at work.
After work, I headed to the grocery store to pickup a bunch of stuff to start cooking again. Ralph's ended up having a sale and I wound up leaving with $100 worth of food, with a few spices and supplies. It should last me at least a week. So I hope to save some money, compared to what I've been spending anyway. (Oh yeah, and I bought some cinnamon toast crunch. Ralphs brand, but whatever. Parents didn't used to buy that "sugary crap." It's nice being on my own haha)
Once I got home I cleaned up the kitchen and attempted a baked mac 'n cheese, with cream corn and ham. The mac ended up being a little lackluster, but it was still cheap and decent, and I got a ton of leftovers. Op! Hold on, time to put the laundry in the dryer. Must be a Thursday night.
That's about it for the day. I'm going to go grab a book now and see if it interests me. You can read why and what it is below. I wrote the following earlier today:
An update on my grad school decision. I'm 70-30 in favor of going to grad school.
After work, I headed to the grocery store to pickup a bunch of stuff to start cooking again. Ralph's ended up having a sale and I wound up leaving with $100 worth of food, with a few spices and supplies. It should last me at least a week. So I hope to save some money, compared to what I've been spending anyway. (Oh yeah, and I bought some cinnamon toast crunch. Ralphs brand, but whatever. Parents didn't used to buy that "sugary crap." It's nice being on my own haha)
Once I got home I cleaned up the kitchen and attempted a baked mac 'n cheese, with cream corn and ham. The mac ended up being a little lackluster, but it was still cheap and decent, and I got a ton of leftovers. Op! Hold on, time to put the laundry in the dryer. Must be a Thursday night.
That's about it for the day. I'm going to go grab a book now and see if it interests me. You can read why and what it is below. I wrote the following earlier today:
An update on my grad school decision. I'm 70-30 in favor of going to grad school.
Looking back at college, I wish I had a better idea of what exactly I wanted to do when I graduated. I also wish I would have taken it more seriously. I had a lot of fun, that's for sure, but amazing grades and the retention I should have had would sure make my decision to go back to grad school a WHOLE LOT EASIER! I feel like I should practice studying something now, just to get in the habit of studying! But at the same time, I feel like I should WANT to study something because I enjoy it, not because I have to! I've just never been a fan of SCHOOL. I'm more of a fan of DOING something to learn it. I guess grad school, for what I want to do, is MORE doing than any other schooling I've done, but it's still going to be a ton of school. GRRR. I think I'll get some old anatomy/physiology books out and study them tonight and see if it still interests me.
Until tomorrow, there's day 21 of 365.
1.20.10
Almost through three weeks already? I feel like I say this every week, yet I'm consistently amazed at how quickly time just flies by and I feel like I've done nothing.
Today was rather boring. Got to work, did my thing. I did have to go to the IRS office though, which was an hours worth of silence. I think the only exciting thing to happen was wondering if, while at the IRS office, I was going to get a parking ticket for an expired meter. THAT would have been hilarious to me. The feds giveth and the state taketh away hah! Fortunately, this whole rain thing probably kept the wonderful parking enforcement in their car and I escaped ticketless.
I did decide to go back to something I was doing last year. A $10 per day budget. This means I'm going to go back to cooking, and finding ways to do things cheaper. I made a lot of progress on debt last year when I was doing this, and as most people do, I reverted back to my old self. Change is so very difficult to make permanent. I feel like this will always be a battle. Trying to figure out new ways to stay on course and find what actually works for me, is such a tiring fight, but better than not fighting at all.
After work I headed home with the intention of driving up to Studio City for dinner if the traffic wasn't bad. Traffic wasn't deadly, nor was it great, but the plans were thrown out when an emergency popped up (not with me). So I headed home and ate dinner with my roommate. Tried Foggia Italian Deli for the first time. Holy crap those sandwiches are huge. It was great. I need to go back there and buy some nice meat and cheese!
After dinner, I enjoyed some American Idol (funny picture attached), a couple other tv shows and now I'm heading to bed. Until tomorrow, there's day 20 of 365.
Today was rather boring. Got to work, did my thing. I did have to go to the IRS office though, which was an hours worth of silence. I think the only exciting thing to happen was wondering if, while at the IRS office, I was going to get a parking ticket for an expired meter. THAT would have been hilarious to me. The feds giveth and the state taketh away hah! Fortunately, this whole rain thing probably kept the wonderful parking enforcement in their car and I escaped ticketless.
I did decide to go back to something I was doing last year. A $10 per day budget. This means I'm going to go back to cooking, and finding ways to do things cheaper. I made a lot of progress on debt last year when I was doing this, and as most people do, I reverted back to my old self. Change is so very difficult to make permanent. I feel like this will always be a battle. Trying to figure out new ways to stay on course and find what actually works for me, is such a tiring fight, but better than not fighting at all.
After work I headed home with the intention of driving up to Studio City for dinner if the traffic wasn't bad. Traffic wasn't deadly, nor was it great, but the plans were thrown out when an emergency popped up (not with me). So I headed home and ate dinner with my roommate. Tried Foggia Italian Deli for the first time. Holy crap those sandwiches are huge. It was great. I need to go back there and buy some nice meat and cheese!
After dinner, I enjoyed some American Idol (funny picture attached), a couple other tv shows and now I'm heading to bed. Until tomorrow, there's day 20 of 365.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
1.19.10
What's this? Writing the day at the end of the day it happened? He must have been happy or something.
I am. But you'll have to read the rest of the day before you find out why. ;)
Seeing as I spent all day yesterday doing absolutely nothing, I woke up earlier than my alarm. Now this doesn't mean that I got up, just that I was awake. I don't get out of bed until the very last minute. Especially when it's raining, like it was today.
I got to work on time, and there was absolutely no traffic. Is MLK Day a big drinking day I didn't know about and everyone was hungover? Tuesdays at work (really my Mondays) are usually the busy day of the week. Cranking out checks and inputting invoices. However, organizing everything the way I did on Friday made things run so efficient I didn't know what to do with all the extra free time I had. Luckily, the rain and finding leaks in the store kept my attention for a while. Oh, and this tornado thing passing through SoCal.
I also had a random thought and wrote it down to publish tonight: Regarding the complaint I mentioned about no movies or books showing the struggles of the late twenties slash post-college, pre-career time of people's lives. On top of trying to figure out what I'm going to do with my life, it seems that this is also a time when you really learn who your family is. Maybe it's just me, but I seem to be learning things, noticing things, and tieing up pieces about my family and realizing WHO they really are as people as opposed to parents. Things that I either didn't notice, didn't care to notice, or didn't know seem to be surfacing. It's very interesting. Almost as if I see them as "other adults" as opposed to "mom and dad" which is totally weird and oddly liberating. I don't need to go into more detail about my family, but I did want to throw this out there in case anyone else is experiencing this too.
I left work and wondered what I was going to do with the rest of my night, since my normal Tuesday night volleyball was off due to the rain. I debated between two options: coming home and writing, and going to the casino.
The writing option was something that struck me midday, while having a facebook conversation with a friend. I love to write, even though I hardly give this blog any attention to detail, and considering I don't really do it that often. I don't know the difference between an adverb and an adjective - seriously, I look those words up every time and still don't remembeber which is which - and I don't know the "proper" ways to structure a sentence. Even with all of this, I still love doing it and from what I hear, a lot of people don't mind reading what I write, and some even like it. Now I don't know if this is due to the actual "writing" part of it or if it's the fact that they like to see other people's struggles, failures and triumphs or if it's something else entirely, as I just get "I like/love/enjoy reading your blog." Regardless of this, I love writing and feel like I have a story to tell.
So, for a brief moment, I thought about writing a screenplay. Not at all with any wild dream of it somehow finding it's way to some film festival, but rather something to be acted out for simple fun and enjoyment. Maybe even a dinner theater party. This is all the thought I gave to this option.
Option two, the casino, was tempting to me for many reasons. If you dig back into my blog about seven months ago, you'll read about the WHOLE reason kylerevans.blogspot.com even exists; the casino. Since then, I've only gone to the casino once. For those of you that know me, you'll know how hard this is for me. In fact, I just shook my head in bewilderment at the thought of that.
I decided to go to the casino. This time with a different attitude than I've ever had. An adult attitude. Instead of playing the normal table games, I wanted to play a tournament. I've never busted out of a tournament without at least making my money back, so I decided to give it a chance. In fact, in my mind there was absolutely no way I could leave the tournament a loser. These single tables are too easy. It was a $135 buy-in and I played smart and ended up taking third. I won $190. I could have played more aggressively, but I really wasn't getting any good hands. In fact, I could have not even shown up, and still taken at least third. Seriously. I guess I preyed on other people's impatience, when they used to prey on mine.
When I used to go, I'd try and force hands and end up leaving the casino down at least $200 and fuming. This time I used patience and the knowledge and skills I know I have. I generally don't lose unless I'm playing like an impatient moron.
After the tournament was over, I decided to go and play some table games and test out my endurance on patience. I sat and played for a solid two hours. I only lost my patience once, when I called with a K-9 suited, because it was the third time in a row I had it and thought I'd get lucky. After losing the hand I realized that one can't THINK they'll get lucky. You do or you don't. I got back on track and played what I thought was great poker.
This is where two things happened that haven't ever happened with me before. I left early and with more money than I brought in! I have left the casino a winner before, but only after long hours, winning BIG and running or being forced to leave as I was with other people. I've never sat and played for a few hours and left up less than $100. I used to have the mentality that it was better to risk losing $40 in hopes of winning over $100 and coming home a loser than to leave with "only winning" like $60. Today it was like I had a four hour job after work and got paid about $15/hour. That's A-OK with me. Oh and I had dinner.
This may seem very strange to some other people, but to me, it showed me that I could control my actions and reactions 100% better than I could seven months ago. Could I actually be growing up? We shall see!
Time to go watch American Idol and go to bed. Until tomorrow, there's day 19 of 365.
I am. But you'll have to read the rest of the day before you find out why. ;)
Seeing as I spent all day yesterday doing absolutely nothing, I woke up earlier than my alarm. Now this doesn't mean that I got up, just that I was awake. I don't get out of bed until the very last minute. Especially when it's raining, like it was today.
I got to work on time, and there was absolutely no traffic. Is MLK Day a big drinking day I didn't know about and everyone was hungover? Tuesdays at work (really my Mondays) are usually the busy day of the week. Cranking out checks and inputting invoices. However, organizing everything the way I did on Friday made things run so efficient I didn't know what to do with all the extra free time I had. Luckily, the rain and finding leaks in the store kept my attention for a while. Oh, and this tornado thing passing through SoCal.
I also had a random thought and wrote it down to publish tonight: Regarding the complaint I mentioned about no movies or books showing the struggles of the late twenties slash post-college, pre-career time of people's lives. On top of trying to figure out what I'm going to do with my life, it seems that this is also a time when you really learn who your family is. Maybe it's just me, but I seem to be learning things, noticing things, and tieing up pieces about my family and realizing WHO they really are as people as opposed to parents. Things that I either didn't notice, didn't care to notice, or didn't know seem to be surfacing. It's very interesting. Almost as if I see them as "other adults" as opposed to "mom and dad" which is totally weird and oddly liberating. I don't need to go into more detail about my family, but I did want to throw this out there in case anyone else is experiencing this too.
I left work and wondered what I was going to do with the rest of my night, since my normal Tuesday night volleyball was off due to the rain. I debated between two options: coming home and writing, and going to the casino.
The writing option was something that struck me midday, while having a facebook conversation with a friend. I love to write, even though I hardly give this blog any attention to detail, and considering I don't really do it that often. I don't know the difference between an adverb and an adjective - seriously, I look those words up every time and still don't remembeber which is which - and I don't know the "proper" ways to structure a sentence. Even with all of this, I still love doing it and from what I hear, a lot of people don't mind reading what I write, and some even like it. Now I don't know if this is due to the actual "writing" part of it or if it's the fact that they like to see other people's struggles, failures and triumphs or if it's something else entirely, as I just get "I like/love/enjoy reading your blog." Regardless of this, I love writing and feel like I have a story to tell.
So, for a brief moment, I thought about writing a screenplay. Not at all with any wild dream of it somehow finding it's way to some film festival, but rather something to be acted out for simple fun and enjoyment. Maybe even a dinner theater party. This is all the thought I gave to this option.
Option two, the casino, was tempting to me for many reasons. If you dig back into my blog about seven months ago, you'll read about the WHOLE reason kylerevans.blogspot.com even exists; the casino. Since then, I've only gone to the casino once. For those of you that know me, you'll know how hard this is for me. In fact, I just shook my head in bewilderment at the thought of that.
I decided to go to the casino. This time with a different attitude than I've ever had. An adult attitude. Instead of playing the normal table games, I wanted to play a tournament. I've never busted out of a tournament without at least making my money back, so I decided to give it a chance. In fact, in my mind there was absolutely no way I could leave the tournament a loser. These single tables are too easy. It was a $135 buy-in and I played smart and ended up taking third. I won $190. I could have played more aggressively, but I really wasn't getting any good hands. In fact, I could have not even shown up, and still taken at least third. Seriously. I guess I preyed on other people's impatience, when they used to prey on mine.
When I used to go, I'd try and force hands and end up leaving the casino down at least $200 and fuming. This time I used patience and the knowledge and skills I know I have. I generally don't lose unless I'm playing like an impatient moron.
After the tournament was over, I decided to go and play some table games and test out my endurance on patience. I sat and played for a solid two hours. I only lost my patience once, when I called with a K-9 suited, because it was the third time in a row I had it and thought I'd get lucky. After losing the hand I realized that one can't THINK they'll get lucky. You do or you don't. I got back on track and played what I thought was great poker.
This is where two things happened that haven't ever happened with me before. I left early and with more money than I brought in! I have left the casino a winner before, but only after long hours, winning BIG and running or being forced to leave as I was with other people. I've never sat and played for a few hours and left up less than $100. I used to have the mentality that it was better to risk losing $40 in hopes of winning over $100 and coming home a loser than to leave with "only winning" like $60. Today it was like I had a four hour job after work and got paid about $15/hour. That's A-OK with me. Oh and I had dinner.
This may seem very strange to some other people, but to me, it showed me that I could control my actions and reactions 100% better than I could seven months ago. Could I actually be growing up? We shall see!
Time to go watch American Idol and go to bed. Until tomorrow, there's day 19 of 365.
1.18.10
Finally caught up. Phew! Who knew a few days could fly by that quickly. This post will be VERY short.
I woke up today around 10:30, which was shocking considering how exhausted I was from the last two days and nights. After farting around the house, not literally, at least yet, I took a shower and decided to watch some of my netflix movies. Before I actually pressed play on the first one though, I got stuck watching Max Payne on HBO. After Max Payne I watched most of I Love You, Man. After I Love You, Man I watched the last half of Forgetting Sarah Marshall. I felt like it was a Jason Segal and Mila Kunis day, which isn't bad because he's hilarious and she's MMPH hot!
After these three movies, I watched Lars and the Real Girl -BOOOOOO! After I woke up from that movie I watched Goodfellas for the first time. I liked it. Spending seven hours on the couch gave me a headache. Or maybe it was the fact that I hadn't eaten anything since 9pm last night, and it was already 6 pm today. I finally decided to eat. Subway, eat fresh!
You'll never guess what I did for the rest of the night. Dang, you're good. Watched more TV/movies. It was a day of resting and catching up, so I don't get sick and run down like I did at the end of last week. It felt good, but it would have felt better if I had some company. Oh well. And isn't it amazing that people can "go to bed" after doing absolutely nothing and dozing on and off all day? Well, prepare to be amazed, because I'm exhausted and going to bed! Until tomorrow, there's day 18 of 365.
I woke up today around 10:30, which was shocking considering how exhausted I was from the last two days and nights. After farting around the house, not literally, at least yet, I took a shower and decided to watch some of my netflix movies. Before I actually pressed play on the first one though, I got stuck watching Max Payne on HBO. After Max Payne I watched most of I Love You, Man. After I Love You, Man I watched the last half of Forgetting Sarah Marshall. I felt like it was a Jason Segal and Mila Kunis day, which isn't bad because he's hilarious and she's MMPH hot!
After these three movies, I watched Lars and the Real Girl -BOOOOOO! After I woke up from that movie I watched Goodfellas for the first time. I liked it. Spending seven hours on the couch gave me a headache. Or maybe it was the fact that I hadn't eaten anything since 9pm last night, and it was already 6 pm today. I finally decided to eat. Subway, eat fresh!
You'll never guess what I did for the rest of the night. Dang, you're good. Watched more TV/movies. It was a day of resting and catching up, so I don't get sick and run down like I did at the end of last week. It felt good, but it would have felt better if I had some company. Oh well. And isn't it amazing that people can "go to bed" after doing absolutely nothing and dozing on and off all day? Well, prepare to be amazed, because I'm exhausted and going to bed! Until tomorrow, there's day 18 of 365.
1.17.10
Still catching up.
I woke up today 3.5 hours after I went to bed last night. Yes, 5:30 in the morning. Golf. This is at the top of a very short list of "Things I'll wake up before 7am for." I got dressed, brushed my teeth and headed to the course. Yes, still sporting my moustache from the night before. I wore it for the few chuckles I'd get from the guys, then tossed it.
Golf was great. I started off alright for a hole, then went up and down on the golf roller coaster for the next ten holes before focusing and finishing strong. At one point, I was certain I was going to lose at least $45 in bets. This was until I looked at my buddy Scott, and did something that he loves for me to do; call exactly what I'm going to do. I usually do this with him on the volleyball court, promising an Ace or something, but this was the first time I did it with him on the golf course. I told him I was going to drain my putt and come back. I did just that and ended up finishing the last six holes at one over par. From being down about $45 in bets to breaking dead even was huge, both financially and mentally. I just wish I could focus like that from the first tee all the way until the 18th green!
After golf, Scott and I headed to lunch for some beer and the Cowboys v. Vikings game. We talked a little bit about what we're going to do with our lives, and hung out. I, for some reason, wasn't interested in talking about the future though, and then realized that I spent the entire last week not even thinking about what I'm going to do. I was in "lazy fun" mode and simply pushed aside all my worries and problems, similar to the way my family handles everything. I needed to be more proactive and start working on my life instead of getting back into the eat, sleep, poop monotony of the life I don't want.
I came home from lunch and took a nap from 1-330 before I got up to head to volleyball. After volleyball I came home and went to dinner with my roommate Jim, and then came home and went to bed. I was exhausted. I had only six hours sleep and had done a whole lot of activity! Day 17 of 365, done! zzzzzzzz
I woke up today 3.5 hours after I went to bed last night. Yes, 5:30 in the morning. Golf. This is at the top of a very short list of "Things I'll wake up before 7am for." I got dressed, brushed my teeth and headed to the course. Yes, still sporting my moustache from the night before. I wore it for the few chuckles I'd get from the guys, then tossed it.
Golf was great. I started off alright for a hole, then went up and down on the golf roller coaster for the next ten holes before focusing and finishing strong. At one point, I was certain I was going to lose at least $45 in bets. This was until I looked at my buddy Scott, and did something that he loves for me to do; call exactly what I'm going to do. I usually do this with him on the volleyball court, promising an Ace or something, but this was the first time I did it with him on the golf course. I told him I was going to drain my putt and come back. I did just that and ended up finishing the last six holes at one over par. From being down about $45 in bets to breaking dead even was huge, both financially and mentally. I just wish I could focus like that from the first tee all the way until the 18th green!
After golf, Scott and I headed to lunch for some beer and the Cowboys v. Vikings game. We talked a little bit about what we're going to do with our lives, and hung out. I, for some reason, wasn't interested in talking about the future though, and then realized that I spent the entire last week not even thinking about what I'm going to do. I was in "lazy fun" mode and simply pushed aside all my worries and problems, similar to the way my family handles everything. I needed to be more proactive and start working on my life instead of getting back into the eat, sleep, poop monotony of the life I don't want.
I came home from lunch and took a nap from 1-330 before I got up to head to volleyball. After volleyball I came home and went to dinner with my roommate Jim, and then came home and went to bed. I was exhausted. I had only six hours sleep and had done a whole lot of activity! Day 17 of 365, done! zzzzzzzz
1.16.10
Again, this is being posted on 1.19. Don't judge.
I woke up about thirty minutes early today to be at the wonderful USPS to pick up a certified letter from the one place EVERYONE hopes to NEVER receive a letter from; the IRS. Hi Stress. Welcome. Come on in and make yourself comfortable. I won't get into the particulars, but I owe some money, and there are some issues, and I'm working on sorting them out. I hate taxes. Seriously. I know most of us do, but yeah, hate them.
So now that I was in a great mood to start the day, it was off to work! Being that I organized everything so well yesterday, I didn't have a whole lot to do today, which allowed me a little free time to tune into the NFL playoff game now and then. Work ended up flying by and I was feeling better, both physically and mentally.
On my way home, I stopped by a party store to see if they had an items that I could use as part of a costume for an Olympic themed birthday party I was going to in the evening. I was going to represent Mexico. I was pretty excited for this party because it was for a friend of mine who I don't see that often and he's absolutely hilarious, and for the theme of the party.
After getting ready, I headed up to Brentwood. Upon my arrival, I quickly noticed that there was only one single guy in the room; me. Five couples and Kylito. This was strange because pretty much all of my life I'm the one who always had a girlfriend, and now everything was reversed. Don't quite know how I feel about this. Guess I'd just have to kick some juego olympicos ass alone.
Here is a link to some of the pictures from the "GAMES." More specifically, my costume.
I had a great time with some great people here. But how could I not with a house full of USC alumni? I left the party at around 1:30am, taking 2nd place overall. I got home around 2am and went straight to bed, moustache and all. Day 16 of 365, done!
I woke up about thirty minutes early today to be at the wonderful USPS to pick up a certified letter from the one place EVERYONE hopes to NEVER receive a letter from; the IRS. Hi Stress. Welcome. Come on in and make yourself comfortable. I won't get into the particulars, but I owe some money, and there are some issues, and I'm working on sorting them out. I hate taxes. Seriously. I know most of us do, but yeah, hate them.
So now that I was in a great mood to start the day, it was off to work! Being that I organized everything so well yesterday, I didn't have a whole lot to do today, which allowed me a little free time to tune into the NFL playoff game now and then. Work ended up flying by and I was feeling better, both physically and mentally.
On my way home, I stopped by a party store to see if they had an items that I could use as part of a costume for an Olympic themed birthday party I was going to in the evening. I was going to represent Mexico. I was pretty excited for this party because it was for a friend of mine who I don't see that often and he's absolutely hilarious, and for the theme of the party.
After getting ready, I headed up to Brentwood. Upon my arrival, I quickly noticed that there was only one single guy in the room; me. Five couples and Kylito. This was strange because pretty much all of my life I'm the one who always had a girlfriend, and now everything was reversed. Don't quite know how I feel about this. Guess I'd just have to kick some juego olympicos ass alone.
Here is a link to some of the pictures from the "GAMES." More specifically, my costume.
I had a great time with some great people here. But how could I not with a house full of USC alumni? I left the party at around 1:30am, taking 2nd place overall. I got home around 2am and went straight to bed, moustache and all. Day 16 of 365, done!
1.15.10
OK. Well, I haven't posted or written anything since Friday, so here is my catch-up. Don't hate when there's not much detail, as the particular thoughts of each day may have escaped me.
Typical Friday at work. Started the morning off with our weekly staff meeting and I spent the rest of the day organizing my "office" for 2010. A fun filled Friday of filing! I still felt pretty crappy most of the day, and was debating whether or not to flake on going to Cowboy Country because I was sore and achy and dancing and jumping around just didn't seem fun. However, they were giving a lesson on the line dance Chill Factor, one of the hardest dances, that I didn't want to miss.
I got home from work after an hour ride home, awesome, and went straight into my bed and set my alarm for 30 minutes. The power nap made feel slightly better, so I took a scortching hot shower and headed to Cowboy Country (CC from here on out).
I got there in time to walk straight to the floor, do one of my favorite dances, and learn Chill Factor. After the lesson, I sat at the table with virtually zero energy and feeling terrible and achy. I took a few Ibuprofen, or as I like to call it "Vitamin I," and started to feel a lot better. I grabbed a beer and and felt like I was alive again. I spent the rest of the night dancing and didn't leave until about 12:30 am. I went home and went to bed. Day 15 of 365, done.
Typical Friday at work. Started the morning off with our weekly staff meeting and I spent the rest of the day organizing my "office" for 2010. A fun filled Friday of filing! I still felt pretty crappy most of the day, and was debating whether or not to flake on going to Cowboy Country because I was sore and achy and dancing and jumping around just didn't seem fun. However, they were giving a lesson on the line dance Chill Factor, one of the hardest dances, that I didn't want to miss.
I got home from work after an hour ride home, awesome, and went straight into my bed and set my alarm for 30 minutes. The power nap made feel slightly better, so I took a scortching hot shower and headed to Cowboy Country (CC from here on out).
I got there in time to walk straight to the floor, do one of my favorite dances, and learn Chill Factor. After the lesson, I sat at the table with virtually zero energy and feeling terrible and achy. I took a few Ibuprofen, or as I like to call it "Vitamin I," and started to feel a lot better. I grabbed a beer and and felt like I was alive again. I spent the rest of the night dancing and didn't leave until about 12:30 am. I went home and went to bed. Day 15 of 365, done.
Friday, January 15, 2010
1.14.10
Hello completion of week two. Nice to see you. This morning was very typical. Get up late, take a shower, rush to work and hope there's no traffic. However, around noon-thirty, I felt like I slammed into a wall. I felt fatigued, sore, and drowsy. In essence, I felt sick, but without feeling sick. Almost like I've been running around and spreading myself thin, when I haven't been doing much at all. Maybe it was last weekend's good times that finally caught up. Either way, I couldn't wait to get off work.
On my way home I stopped and got some Nyquil, with the plan of throwing my laundry in and taking a shot and passing out. This is not what happened. I got home and immediately took my shot of Nyquil and laid on the couch watching tv. I was this close ( ) <--fingers - to passing out at 6:00 for the rest of the night when I remembered I didn't put my laundry in. Then that realization that I'd have to be up to put it in the dryer set in and I immediately became unhappy.
After weighing my options of doing the laundry tonight or not for a solid fifteen minutes, I finally fought off the drowsiness and forced myself up and did the first load, with the full intention of leaving load number two for tomorrow. After getting up, though, I guess the Nyquil was like, "Fine. You don't want me to do my job then screw you." I was wide awake again and feeling like crap. It's like that feeling you get when you're dozing off while driving, and you can't wait to get home and run to bed. Then once you get home, you're fine and awake.
So before taking shot #2, I made sure to wait until load #2 was in the dryer, with the intention of folding it tomorrow. Next thing I knew it was 10:30 and I had folded and put away both loads in a Nyquil stupor. I finally stumbled to bed and am writing day 14 on day 15. So until tomorrow (tonight), there's day 14 of 365.
On my way home I stopped and got some Nyquil, with the plan of throwing my laundry in and taking a shot and passing out. This is not what happened. I got home and immediately took my shot of Nyquil and laid on the couch watching tv. I was this close ( ) <--fingers - to passing out at 6:00 for the rest of the night when I remembered I didn't put my laundry in. Then that realization that I'd have to be up to put it in the dryer set in and I immediately became unhappy.
After weighing my options of doing the laundry tonight or not for a solid fifteen minutes, I finally fought off the drowsiness and forced myself up and did the first load, with the full intention of leaving load number two for tomorrow. After getting up, though, I guess the Nyquil was like, "Fine. You don't want me to do my job then screw you." I was wide awake again and feeling like crap. It's like that feeling you get when you're dozing off while driving, and you can't wait to get home and run to bed. Then once you get home, you're fine and awake.
So before taking shot #2, I made sure to wait until load #2 was in the dryer, with the intention of folding it tomorrow. Next thing I knew it was 10:30 and I had folded and put away both loads in a Nyquil stupor. I finally stumbled to bed and am writing day 14 on day 15. So until tomorrow (tonight), there's day 14 of 365.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
1.13.10
Day thirteen and things seem to be going along just fine. My morning started with a little bit of traffic, most of which I avoided thanks to a tip from a friend, and I got to work about fifteen minutes late. I was pretty busy for most of the day with work, so there wasn't much going on upstairs.
I did, however, take a long lunch and go to dinner with a great friend of mine, Ryan. It's always fun hanging out with him. We're pretty similar, minus the fact that he works like 90 hours each week. I really only got to see him because he played hooky from work. So thanks, Ryan! (I know he reads this because everything I started to talk about initiated an, "I read that on your blog.")
After work I headed up to Studio City, as I do most every Wednesday, for some dinner and wine. Ribs, broccoli slaw something, grilled brie and pear with cinnamon sandwich, and beans! It was all really good! After dinner we sat and laughed at American Idol until it was time to go home.
That pretty much sums up today. Not much happened. I'm going to go put my "pants on the ground. pants on the ground. Lookin like a fool with my pants on the ground." and go to bed. Until tomorrow, there's day 13 of 365.
I did, however, take a long lunch and go to dinner with a great friend of mine, Ryan. It's always fun hanging out with him. We're pretty similar, minus the fact that he works like 90 hours each week. I really only got to see him because he played hooky from work. So thanks, Ryan! (I know he reads this because everything I started to talk about initiated an, "I read that on your blog.")
After work I headed up to Studio City, as I do most every Wednesday, for some dinner and wine. Ribs, broccoli slaw something, grilled brie and pear with cinnamon sandwich, and beans! It was all really good! After dinner we sat and laughed at American Idol until it was time to go home.
That pretty much sums up today. Not much happened. I'm going to go put my "pants on the ground. pants on the ground. Lookin like a fool with my pants on the ground." and go to bed. Until tomorrow, there's day 13 of 365.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
1.12.10
Day twelve. Wow. This year is already flying by. I don't like how with every passing day, time seems to speed up and I feel like the amount of time to decide on things seems to be NOW! Luckily, I'm in the process of devising a 2010 plan. I need to. A plan to lower my debt, save some money, and figure out what I'm going to do with the last few years of my twenties.
A friend of mine put me in touch with a friend of theirs that is currently in DPT school, which was awesome because it allowed me to ask some questions I had, and help give me a better timeline on when I could actually get accepted. It looks like 2012, unfortunately, as there is a lot I'd need to do beforehand. That puts me at potentially graduating around 2015, or 31 years old. However, if I busted my balls the rest of this year, I could, MAYBE, get in for 2011. Highly unlikely, and probably not the best of plans, but it is a possibility. I'm thankful for the help, advice, and added knowledge I have now, so I can really think about what I want to do with my life. I'll probably be researching some other types of jobs in the next few days, too.
Other than thinking about this some more, today was relatively anticlimactic. Typical Tuesday. Volleyball, Islands, shower, and finally some American Idol, which is a nice way to cap off the night.Ohhhh wait. That's right. There's the fact that I cut my hair WAY TOO SHORT! Seriously, it's the shortest ever. 1/8th of an inch. I tried to save my mistake of putting the wrong clip on the clippers, but I am no hair stylist. So I just shaved the rest away. At least this will give me an excuse to actually wear my cowboy hat dancing this weekend!? So bald. Oof! No likey!
Oh that reminds me of something I was talking about last Wednesday with some friends. We were discussing the pros and cons of my always feeling like I am a jack of all trades, master at none, and how I just wish I were great at something. It'd make this whole decision making process a WHOLE LOT easier! Maybe I just need to find something I can do well, that I enjoy doing every day. How in the world do I know that, though, unless I'm able to at least try all the things I think I'd enjoy? Oh well. At least I know the things I'm not, unlike some of those Idol hopefuls slash crazies! Until tomorrow, there's day 12 of 365.
A friend of mine put me in touch with a friend of theirs that is currently in DPT school, which was awesome because it allowed me to ask some questions I had, and help give me a better timeline on when I could actually get accepted. It looks like 2012, unfortunately, as there is a lot I'd need to do beforehand. That puts me at potentially graduating around 2015, or 31 years old. However, if I busted my balls the rest of this year, I could, MAYBE, get in for 2011. Highly unlikely, and probably not the best of plans, but it is a possibility. I'm thankful for the help, advice, and added knowledge I have now, so I can really think about what I want to do with my life. I'll probably be researching some other types of jobs in the next few days, too.
Other than thinking about this some more, today was relatively anticlimactic. Typical Tuesday. Volleyball, Islands, shower, and finally some American Idol, which is a nice way to cap off the night.
Oh that reminds me of something I was talking about last Wednesday with some friends. We were discussing the pros and cons of my always feeling like I am a jack of all trades, master at none, and how I just wish I were great at something. It'd make this whole decision making process a WHOLE LOT easier! Maybe I just need to find something I can do well, that I enjoy doing every day. How in the world do I know that, though, unless I'm able to at least try all the things I think I'd enjoy? Oh well. At least I know the things I'm not, unlike some of those Idol hopefuls slash crazies! Until tomorrow, there's day 12 of 365.
Monday, January 11, 2010
1.11.10
I woke up today around 11 am and boy was it nice to sleep in. I probably could have slept until 12, but I was going to go play golf! I got ready, ate some more leftover chili and coooooooooornbreaaaad and headed to the course. I met up with my buddy Mike, and we teed it up. I was playing pretty well on the front nine, a double on #1 - had to take a drop - and two bogeys, and the back nine was just awful. I didn't make a par until 17 and 18. A decent 84, but not any better and I feel SO CLOSE to being good. That whole not-practicing thing probably doesn't help. Either way it was a fun round. I also played with the owner of THE SECRET SPOT in Huntington Beach. Cool dude and a super hip vegetarian restuarant. Go there!
After golf was over, I came home and changed and headed out to volleyball, since I missed out yesterday. I didn't get to play as much, but it's always worth it even to play one game. It's getting me back in shape, along with the dancing, walking the golf courses and eating better. And yes, chili and cornbread is eating better! hah.
On my drive home from volleyball I got a sweet tooth, which I don't think has ever happened. I headed into Vons, with Ben & Jerry's Cherry Garcia on my mind. I left with two pints, some iced tea - OH CRAP. I just brewed some. BRB......
MMMMMMMMMMMMMM delicious!
and some of those amazing pink and white animal cookies! It made me think about how we used to have them as a kid, but I'd only get to eat like two. That bag will be lucky to make it to Wednesday!
Today was a great day. I love my Mondays. Going out and playing golf with a good friend and then volleyball with a good friend is more than I could ask for. Well, doing anything with good friends is more than I could ask for. I also thought about myself, as a friend to others. I hope people think of me as a good friend too! I'm going to work on that a little bit, just in case.
Now, I'm going to go eat this entire pint of ice cream, to negate all the exercise I got today, and watch me some House! Until tomorrow, there's day 11 of 365!
After golf was over, I came home and changed and headed out to volleyball, since I missed out yesterday. I didn't get to play as much, but it's always worth it even to play one game. It's getting me back in shape, along with the dancing, walking the golf courses and eating better. And yes, chili and cornbread is eating better! hah.
On my drive home from volleyball I got a sweet tooth, which I don't think has ever happened. I headed into Vons, with Ben & Jerry's Cherry Garcia on my mind. I left with two pints, some iced tea - OH CRAP. I just brewed some. BRB......
MMMMMMMMMMMMMM delicious!
and some of those amazing pink and white animal cookies! It made me think about how we used to have them as a kid, but I'd only get to eat like two. That bag will be lucky to make it to Wednesday!
Today was a great day. I love my Mondays. Going out and playing golf with a good friend and then volleyball with a good friend is more than I could ask for. Well, doing anything with good friends is more than I could ask for. I also thought about myself, as a friend to others. I hope people think of me as a good friend too! I'm going to work on that a little bit, just in case.
Now, I'm going to go eat this entire pint of ice cream, to negate all the exercise I got today, and watch me some House! Until tomorrow, there's day 11 of 365!
1.10.10
Some days are nice and long and interesting. Some days are today. I woke up this morning with a mild hangover - Billy the bartender "hooked me up" with a free shot (slash half a glass) of tequila, which was "awesome" - and craving breakfast. The hangover kept me in bed, in fear of sunlight, until three separate people were talking about breakfast and I couldn't take it anymore. I got up, threw a hoodie on and went and stuffed my face with french toast, two eggs over medium, hash browns, and sausage with a large iced tea. I then came back home and dozed in and out of sleep while watching NFL playoff football.
I had planned on going out and playing volleyball around 4:30, but the friend I go with decided not to go. Luckily, another friend had offered to make pizza and watch old episodes of True Blood. So I finally took a shower and went out. This "other friend" is one of the people that have transformed from "long time acquaintance" to "friend." She made an amazing Mediterranean style pizza and we enjoyed it and cocktails while we watched some True Blood, and parts of The Tudors, Secret Diaries of a Call Girl, and Zoolander. Oh, and some of our favorite YouTube videos, found here:
Mandles
The WTF Blanket
Wrong Hole
It was a pretty fun night of doing virtually nothing with a great new friend. I came home around midnight and now am ready to go pass out again. I have a feeling tomorrow will be a little more exciting. Until tomorrow, there's day 10 of 365
I had planned on going out and playing volleyball around 4:30, but the friend I go with decided not to go. Luckily, another friend had offered to make pizza and watch old episodes of True Blood. So I finally took a shower and went out. This "other friend" is one of the people that have transformed from "long time acquaintance" to "friend." She made an amazing Mediterranean style pizza and we enjoyed it and cocktails while we watched some True Blood, and parts of The Tudors, Secret Diaries of a Call Girl, and Zoolander. Oh, and some of our favorite YouTube videos, found here:
Mandles
The WTF Blanket
Wrong Hole
It was a pretty fun night of doing virtually nothing with a great new friend. I came home around midnight and now am ready to go pass out again. I have a feeling tomorrow will be a little more exciting. Until tomorrow, there's day 10 of 365
Saturday, January 9, 2010
1.9.10
Today I'm going to write my page a little differently. I finally realized that I can write and save it as a draft, then publish it later. So whenever I have a thought I want to remember or something happens that I feel is significant in the day, I'm going to hop on here and write it!
It's been a rather slow Saturday at work and I've been sitting here playing games and thinking about random things. Thinking about how this year seemed to get started on the wrong foot, but has turned around remarkably. I feel great about so many things. I feel like I'm finally meeting new people, making progress on how I'm going to deal with the undeniable change that 2010 is going to bring, and I'm having confidence in myself in nearly every facet of my life.
I began this blog complaining that nobody wrote the book on the late 20's of people's lives. Nobody has detailed the silly stresses and loneliness of suddenly feeling abandoned as your friends start getting married, moving away and having PLANNED babies, while you're still struggling to figure out what you want to do as a career. It seems that everyone that I was close to for so long has a different plan and new interests and I feel like I should too. Well, although it's too early to tell yet, I feel like I'm finally starting to realize that the things that I thought might stay the same forever, don't. Other than the dying grass in my front yard. That seems to be a consistency in my life.
However, I've been spending the last few days smiling and completely content with myself and enjoying the one thing that HAS been consistent within myself; laughter. I enjoy making people laugh and I have enjoyed laughing and smiling and loving life more in the past few days than I have in a long time. I'm going to go smile some more now, as I eat some leftover chili and CORNBREAAAAAAD (you have to say that with Southern accent...DO IT!).
The chili and cornbread was DEEEEEEELISH and work was average. After work I decided to go to my new favorite place again and get some more dancing in. I took a two hour nap after work and headed to Cowboy Country around 8:00. Yesterday and today I met some cool new people, and seem to be getting closer to some people that were merely long time acquaintances. I spent virtually four out of the five hours I was there dancing. It makes me happy and it's a pretty damn good workout! Plus with a live band, you can't beat the atmosphere. This is the first time I've ever gone dancing three times in one week and my feet handled it surprisingly well. I left the bar and now here I am ready to PASS OUT! So goodnight. Until tomorrow, there's day 9 of 365
The chili and cornbread was DEEEEEEELISH and work was average. After work I decided to go to my new favorite place again and get some more dancing in. I took a two hour nap after work and headed to Cowboy Country around 8:00. Yesterday and today I met some cool new people, and seem to be getting closer to some people that were merely long time acquaintances. I spent virtually four out of the five hours I was there dancing. It makes me happy and it's a pretty damn good workout! Plus with a live band, you can't beat the atmosphere. This is the first time I've ever gone dancing three times in one week and my feet handled it surprisingly well. I left the bar and now here I am ready to PASS OUT! So goodnight. Until tomorrow, there's day 9 of 365
1.8.10
I woke up thinking it was going to be a good day. Even though Fridays are my Thursdays, I was still going to go out and have a good time and that kept a smile on my face. I don't have a lot to say today as it's already almost noon on the day after and all the particulars about this day have seemed to vanish.
Work was relatively painless today. I worked more on the error I made the previous day and finally got it resolved, which was nice. The only highlights of work was dropping off a new mailer to a good friend of mine, and getting to leave early. After work I did a little shopping with the store coupon I had from buying new boots a week ago.
After debating between two shirts for a good fifteen minutes, I finally picked on and bought a few bandanas (slash sweat wiper offers for dancing) and headed to Cowboy Country before they started charging a cover. This is a first. Normally I'm the type that will wait until the party gets started then show up, however, I had nothing else to do so why not save $5? This turned out to be a good thing, as I was able to partake in the lessons I normally miss, and I learned a new line dance that I've been wanting to learn.
After a few hours, some more friends showed up and it was just hours of dancing and a few beers from then on. Seriously, I think it was a good solid six hours of dancing, as I didn't leave until about 1:30am already dreading my alarm going off for work in a few hours. Oh well. 'Tis the price I pay for being such a party animal. Riiiiiight. It was another great day with great people. Until tomorrow (which is already well underway), there's day 8 of 365.
Work was relatively painless today. I worked more on the error I made the previous day and finally got it resolved, which was nice. The only highlights of work was dropping off a new mailer to a good friend of mine, and getting to leave early. After work I did a little shopping with the store coupon I had from buying new boots a week ago.
After debating between two shirts for a good fifteen minutes, I finally picked on and bought a few bandanas (slash sweat wiper offers for dancing) and headed to Cowboy Country before they started charging a cover. This is a first. Normally I'm the type that will wait until the party gets started then show up, however, I had nothing else to do so why not save $5? This turned out to be a good thing, as I was able to partake in the lessons I normally miss, and I learned a new line dance that I've been wanting to learn.
After a few hours, some more friends showed up and it was just hours of dancing and a few beers from then on. Seriously, I think it was a good solid six hours of dancing, as I didn't leave until about 1:30am already dreading my alarm going off for work in a few hours. Oh well. 'Tis the price I pay for being such a party animal. Riiiiiight. It was another great day with great people. Until tomorrow (which is already well underway), there's day 8 of 365.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
1.7.10
I woke up today well before I had to get up, so I went back to bed, which always ends up with me waking up late. Rushing to get ready for work is just NOT the right way to start the day off. However, having NO traffic and making it to work on time quickly evens things back out.
Work was frustrating today. I made a stupid error in accounting - why is putting the right year so difficult to remember? - and posted some stuff that was supposed to go into 2009, into 2010, then when trying to fix it while talking on the phone, managed to royal screw things up. I spent much of the day trying to rectify this error, as well as do the other "Thursday" tasks.
On top of working, I was trying to coordinate a pseudo-reunion with a group of friends I used to hang it with in high school. I think it's 90% finalized and should be an awesome time. From what I gathered from the responses, everyone is as equally excited as I am!
After work I came home and made some chili and cornbread and watch the NCAA Championship football game, hoping Texas would think they had a shot only to get CRUSHED! I could have gone to a friends house and enjoyed THEIR chili, and in hindsight probably should have as they had brownies for dessert, but decided to relax at home instead.
Now it's about 10:30 and apart from some good conversations with new friends, there's not much going on, both upstairs and in my house. I think I'll end the day doing something I love doing: watching stupid funny videos. Until tomorrow, there's day 7 of 365.
Work was frustrating today. I made a stupid error in accounting - why is putting the right year so difficult to remember? - and posted some stuff that was supposed to go into 2009, into 2010, then when trying to fix it while talking on the phone, managed to royal screw things up. I spent much of the day trying to rectify this error, as well as do the other "Thursday" tasks.
On top of working, I was trying to coordinate a pseudo-reunion with a group of friends I used to hang it with in high school. I think it's 90% finalized and should be an awesome time. From what I gathered from the responses, everyone is as equally excited as I am!
After work I came home and made some chili and cornbread and watch the NCAA Championship football game, hoping Texas would think they had a shot only to get CRUSHED! I could have gone to a friends house and enjoyed THEIR chili, and in hindsight probably should have as they had brownies for dessert, but decided to relax at home instead.
Now it's about 10:30 and apart from some good conversations with new friends, there's not much going on, both upstairs and in my house. I think I'll end the day doing something I love doing: watching stupid funny videos. Until tomorrow, there's day 7 of 365.
1.6.10
Today was the first day in a long time that I woke up happy and excited. What a great way to begin. I could only hope that by the end of the day, I'd feel the same way.
There wasn't much thought or action for the first part of the day, as it was just work and I was fairly busy. I spent my lunch eating in my car while sitting the car wash, which is always exciting, then cleaned out my car. Having a new car makes me want to keep it clean, unlike old Geraldine that I only washed once every six months. It also makes it more comfortable to be in. After that, I went back to work and, that's right, worked! Little did I know, I was going to become even more happy.
Being a new year, we finally got to the first payroll. After going through to check every one's vacation time to determine if anyone was getting an increase, we discovered that I was due for an increase in vacation time as of 1/1/09, which was never given to me. That means that I now have about a full week of vacation time in my back pocket. This made me ecstatic. I may be able to actually use that free round trip flight anywhere JetBlue flies that I received from Amex!
Feeling even happier than when I woke up, I hopped on the freeway for a LONG drive up to Studio City for dinner and great wine as well as the always great company. The wine, as always, was GREAT. It was a blend that the host made himself and it was so smooth! I could have spent the rest of the night drinking it, but other plans were on the mind of some of my company. I said goodbye, and drove down to my favorite place right now, Cowboy Country.
It was still early, about 9:00, when we got there and most of "the regulars" were there. I spent the next two hours or so two-stepping, cha-cha-ing, and line dancing. Another great end to a great day. Doing something I love to do to end the day may just have to be a new nightly occurrence.
I didn't spend too much time thinking about what I'll be doing come the end of my job here, but it was discussed briefly during dinner. I seem to be leaning heavily towards trying to get into grad school. I probably need to get into working on that process fairly soon. But for now, I'm exhausted from dancing, driving and dining so it's time to sleep. Until tomorrow, there's day 6 of 365.
There wasn't much thought or action for the first part of the day, as it was just work and I was fairly busy. I spent my lunch eating in my car while sitting the car wash, which is always exciting, then cleaned out my car. Having a new car makes me want to keep it clean, unlike old Geraldine that I only washed once every six months. It also makes it more comfortable to be in. After that, I went back to work and, that's right, worked! Little did I know, I was going to become even more happy.
Being a new year, we finally got to the first payroll. After going through to check every one's vacation time to determine if anyone was getting an increase, we discovered that I was due for an increase in vacation time as of 1/1/09, which was never given to me. That means that I now have about a full week of vacation time in my back pocket. This made me ecstatic. I may be able to actually use that free round trip flight anywhere JetBlue flies that I received from Amex!
Feeling even happier than when I woke up, I hopped on the freeway for a LONG drive up to Studio City for dinner and great wine as well as the always great company. The wine, as always, was GREAT. It was a blend that the host made himself and it was so smooth! I could have spent the rest of the night drinking it, but other plans were on the mind of some of my company. I said goodbye, and drove down to my favorite place right now, Cowboy Country.
It was still early, about 9:00, when we got there and most of "the regulars" were there. I spent the next two hours or so two-stepping, cha-cha-ing, and line dancing. Another great end to a great day. Doing something I love to do to end the day may just have to be a new nightly occurrence.
I didn't spend too much time thinking about what I'll be doing come the end of my job here, but it was discussed briefly during dinner. I seem to be leaning heavily towards trying to get into grad school. I probably need to get into working on that process fairly soon. But for now, I'm exhausted from dancing, driving and dining so it's time to sleep. Until tomorrow, there's day 6 of 365.
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
1.5.10
Goooooooooood evening. Today was a good day. And after typing that, all I think about is the Black Eyed Peas song, which is both irritatingly catchy and a song that actually makes me want to dance! In fact I think I'll play it in the background while I write. Random, yes. Relevant, not really. MAZEL TOV! (L'CHAIM)
Being that Tuesdays are my Mondays, the day was off to a bad start whether I thought it was going to be bad or not. Although I'm grateful for having a job, it's definitely got no future. Going to work makes me think about what I'm going to do this year when the job is no longer there. Long story short, the company will most likely be going out of business...again. This semi-certain future has got me stressing, worrying, and hopeful.
Recently, I've felt lost on where I am in my life and where I'm going. Knowing my job will be gone has given me a little hope in finding a real "career" and getting my "life" started. Like I said on day one, nothing really prepares you for that mid-to-late twenties period where the real rest of your life begins. Life was so much easier when it was scheduled for me.
I thought a little bit more about my options today, which include, but are not limited to, going to graduate school to get my Doctorate in Physical Therapy, getting a big corporate job, getting a job at a real estate brokerage to learn it a little better so I can help my brokerage run better, or just packing up and moving to a different state and see what I can do there. No matter what, 2010 spells change for me, and it's not just some resolution that I'll forget about in three weeks. Unfortunately, I didn't get too much time to think about this today, as I was more occupied with stressing about money, because I spent too much over the holidays and on stupid, unimportant things and fast food.
JUMP: However, after reading an email just now, I'll probably be alright.
After work, as with every Tuesday, I headed straight to volleyball. Something I've done for over fifteen years. After volleyball we all headed to Island's. Something we've done for the last year or so, maybe longer. We usually get a beer and eat, but today I got their passion fruit iced tea...times 6. I'm addicted to iced tea as evidenced by my only Christmas request: an iced tea brewer.
Those that know me may say I'm equally addicted to booze, and turning down a nice cold Stone IPA for iced tea wouldn't be in the realm of my capabilities, and to those people I say, "You're right." HOWEVER, I decided I'm going to cut WAY back on alcohol consumption. Beyond the typical health and financial reasons, one of the other reasons for this is to allow me to be mentally present in my free time to help me research and figure out what I'm going to do with my life this year. Instead of grabbing a beer or four and passing out on the couch, my hope is to have a little more energy and focus so that I can think about what I really want in life and for myself. From school to work to relationships. Time to grow up. So on that note, time to go pass out on the couch! ;) Don't judge! I'm still tired from the New Year's celebrations, ok? That whole "more energy and focus" part hasn't shown up yet. Until tomorrow, there's day 5 of 365 (and it was actually written on day five - shocking).
Being that Tuesdays are my Mondays, the day was off to a bad start whether I thought it was going to be bad or not. Although I'm grateful for having a job, it's definitely got no future. Going to work makes me think about what I'm going to do this year when the job is no longer there. Long story short, the company will most likely be going out of business...again. This semi-certain future has got me stressing, worrying, and hopeful.
Recently, I've felt lost on where I am in my life and where I'm going. Knowing my job will be gone has given me a little hope in finding a real "career" and getting my "life" started. Like I said on day one, nothing really prepares you for that mid-to-late twenties period where the real rest of your life begins. Life was so much easier when it was scheduled for me.
I thought a little bit more about my options today, which include, but are not limited to, going to graduate school to get my Doctorate in Physical Therapy, getting a big corporate job, getting a job at a real estate brokerage to learn it a little better so I can help my brokerage run better, or just packing up and moving to a different state and see what I can do there. No matter what, 2010 spells change for me, and it's not just some resolution that I'll forget about in three weeks. Unfortunately, I didn't get too much time to think about this today, as I was more occupied with stressing about money, because I spent too much over the holidays and on stupid, unimportant things and fast food.
JUMP: However, after reading an email just now, I'll probably be alright.
After work, as with every Tuesday, I headed straight to volleyball. Something I've done for over fifteen years. After volleyball we all headed to Island's. Something we've done for the last year or so, maybe longer. We usually get a beer and eat, but today I got their passion fruit iced tea...times 6. I'm addicted to iced tea as evidenced by my only Christmas request: an iced tea brewer.
Those that know me may say I'm equally addicted to booze, and turning down a nice cold Stone IPA for iced tea wouldn't be in the realm of my capabilities, and to those people I say, "You're right." HOWEVER, I decided I'm going to cut WAY back on alcohol consumption. Beyond the typical health and financial reasons, one of the other reasons for this is to allow me to be mentally present in my free time to help me research and figure out what I'm going to do with my life this year. Instead of grabbing a beer or four and passing out on the couch, my hope is to have a little more energy and focus so that I can think about what I really want in life and for myself. From school to work to relationships. Time to grow up. So on that note, time to go pass out on the couch! ;) Don't judge! I'm still tired from the New Year's celebrations, ok? That whole "more energy and focus" part hasn't shown up yet. Until tomorrow, there's day 5 of 365 (and it was actually written on day five - shocking).
1.4.10
Page four. It's amazing to me the myriad of emotions I've felt and been through in just four days. From depressed and lonely to breezing through the day relatively emotionless to being happy and enjoying every second of the day, life has got me utterly confused. I feel like I've been four different versions of myself and I'm still trying to figure out the best combination for myself. Today's variety, though, was awesome!
I woke up with my piece of junk iPhone - I love the iPhone, just not mine - vibrating on my nightstand - because my speaker blew out and no longer makes sound - thinking it was just my alarm, until I realized I was supposed to be playing golf! I picked up the phone, tried clearing my throat and did my best 'I'm just running late and totally did NOT just wake up because of this phone call' impression and said I was on my way out of the door as we speak. I hung up, brushed my teeth, got dressed, freaked out a little bit, and drove like a mad man to the golf course getting there with plenty of time. I then quickly calmed down so as not to let the chaotic morning affect my golf game (slash chance to win some of my money back from the prior week). I was feeling confident in my game and teed off with a nice shot down the fairway. Ahhh sweet relief for any golfer on the first tee.
I kept my cool for pretty much the entire round, and was playing some of the best golf I've ever played. I was saving pars from trees and sand traps and making those elusive four and five foot par putt saves. I even had five birdie attempts in the last six holes. While I made none of them - two lip-outs, one too hard, one too short and one three-putt - I still ended up shooting a 79, tying my best round there and my third best round ever! While I only earned $7 from my opponent - that scrappy bastard - I cashed in on him trying to impress his girlfriend as he picked up the tab for an awesome BBQ lunch at Lucilles.
Sitting at home, fat and happy, I relaxed and did some chores, perfectly content with being alone with nothing to do. Later in the afternoon my roommate, Jim, invited me to dinner with him, his girlfriend, Salli, her roommate, Johanna, Jim's friend Ryan. Recently, I've passed on these invitations for reasons I do not know, and I usually end up missing out on tons of fun. This time I agreed and it turned out to be great!
The five of us munched on fine Kraft cheese, freshly sliced with crackers, washing it down with a freshly bottled Mug Root Beer, as we waited for the ladies to finish cooking us their vegetarian taco pie. It was delish! We sat around making jokes and enjoying each others company. I felt like we were all part of some Indie movie. Strange, the thoughts that go on in my head.
After playing with a ceiling fan, some string and decorative aluminum holiday balls - don't ask - we decided to go bowling. For those of you that don't know me, I love bowling. What a PERFECT DAY! Golfing, winning money, free lunch, free dinner, great company, and ending it with BOWLING??? All that was missing was hookers and blow! Yes, that last part was a joke. Hopefully you'll get to know me and my sense of humor, if you don't already. Whoever "you"are.
After climbing into bed, I got my phone out and opened up a game, as I usually do to help me fall asleep. A distraction from my over-thinking mind. It turns out I didn't need it tonight. I was happy, tired, and ready to rest to see what day five would bring me. Until tomorrow, there's day 4 of 365.
I woke up with my piece of junk iPhone - I love the iPhone, just not mine - vibrating on my nightstand - because my speaker blew out and no longer makes sound - thinking it was just my alarm, until I realized I was supposed to be playing golf! I picked up the phone, tried clearing my throat and did my best 'I'm just running late and totally did NOT just wake up because of this phone call' impression and said I was on my way out of the door as we speak. I hung up, brushed my teeth, got dressed, freaked out a little bit, and drove like a mad man to the golf course getting there with plenty of time. I then quickly calmed down so as not to let the chaotic morning affect my golf game (slash chance to win some of my money back from the prior week). I was feeling confident in my game and teed off with a nice shot down the fairway. Ahhh sweet relief for any golfer on the first tee.
I kept my cool for pretty much the entire round, and was playing some of the best golf I've ever played. I was saving pars from trees and sand traps and making those elusive four and five foot par putt saves. I even had five birdie attempts in the last six holes. While I made none of them - two lip-outs, one too hard, one too short and one three-putt - I still ended up shooting a 79, tying my best round there and my third best round ever! While I only earned $7 from my opponent - that scrappy bastard - I cashed in on him trying to impress his girlfriend as he picked up the tab for an awesome BBQ lunch at Lucilles.
Sitting at home, fat and happy, I relaxed and did some chores, perfectly content with being alone with nothing to do. Later in the afternoon my roommate, Jim, invited me to dinner with him, his girlfriend, Salli, her roommate, Johanna, Jim's friend Ryan. Recently, I've passed on these invitations for reasons I do not know, and I usually end up missing out on tons of fun. This time I agreed and it turned out to be great!
The five of us munched on fine Kraft cheese, freshly sliced with crackers, washing it down with a freshly bottled Mug Root Beer, as we waited for the ladies to finish cooking us their vegetarian taco pie. It was delish! We sat around making jokes and enjoying each others company. I felt like we were all part of some Indie movie. Strange, the thoughts that go on in my head.
After playing with a ceiling fan, some string and decorative aluminum holiday balls - don't ask - we decided to go bowling. For those of you that don't know me, I love bowling. What a PERFECT DAY! Golfing, winning money, free lunch, free dinner, great company, and ending it with BOWLING??? All that was missing was hookers and blow! Yes, that last part was a joke. Hopefully you'll get to know me and my sense of humor, if you don't already. Whoever "you"are.
After climbing into bed, I got my phone out and opened up a game, as I usually do to help me fall asleep. A distraction from my over-thinking mind. It turns out I didn't need it tonight. I was happy, tired, and ready to rest to see what day five would bring me. Until tomorrow, there's day 4 of 365.
Monday, January 4, 2010
1.3.10
Yeah yeah. Day three being written on day four will definitely skew some of the memories and emotions, as time has passed and I don't remember things that well anymore; 26 is oooooold!
I don't have much to say for day three as most of the day was spent at the CSULB New Year's Classic Volleyball tournament. This is how my day went from 9am - 4pm: Play volleyball, sit, drink beer, warm up for volleyball, and then repeat and feel progressively "old" and out of shape. Thankfully, I had been playing some volleyball the last few weeks so I could at least look like I knew what I was doing. I ended up playing pretty well and it felt great both mentally and physically. It's given me a little more confidence in myself, but also verified to me that I am, indeed, "old" and out of shape. I also spent the day with my best friend and his girlfriend. An added bonus.
After volleyball I came home and did some laundry, started to feel a little lonely, and realized I didn't need someone around me all day. That's just strange. I sat on the couch, ate some amazing Eastside Mario's leftovers, passed out until 2 in the morning and went to bed without setting my alarm for golf this morning. I guess this is where page three ends huh? I can't wait to read whether or not I made it to golf! Such a cliffhanger! Until tomorrow, there's day 3 of 365.
I don't have much to say for day three as most of the day was spent at the CSULB New Year's Classic Volleyball tournament. This is how my day went from 9am - 4pm: Play volleyball, sit, drink beer, warm up for volleyball, and then repeat and feel progressively "old" and out of shape. Thankfully, I had been playing some volleyball the last few weeks so I could at least look like I knew what I was doing. I ended up playing pretty well and it felt great both mentally and physically. It's given me a little more confidence in myself, but also verified to me that I am, indeed, "old" and out of shape. I also spent the day with my best friend and his girlfriend. An added bonus.
After volleyball I came home and did some laundry, started to feel a little lonely, and realized I didn't need someone around me all day. That's just strange. I sat on the couch, ate some amazing Eastside Mario's leftovers, passed out until 2 in the morning and went to bed without setting my alarm for golf this morning. I guess this is where page three ends huh? I can't wait to read whether or not I made it to golf! Such a cliffhanger! Until tomorrow, there's day 3 of 365.
Sunday, January 3, 2010
1.2.10
Day two began where day one left off. I went to work slightly hungover and unmotivated, only to gain many more emotions that I didn't want to feel; anger, annoyance, depression, confusion, helplessness, etc. This is what happens when you hear stories of your fucked up family. I apologize for the language, but that is the most appropriate way of describing my family so that you're not left questioning what I really mean.
I won't get into the details, though, so don't worry. As the day moved on, things started improving. I was invited to dinner with my best friend, which was both surprising and awesome (dumplings! mmm). I treated myself to some new boots and some clothes. And finally I went out dancing. I ended the night on a good note and I feel great going into tomorrow.
Hmmm. Interesting that my page is significantly shorter when I'm happy. Or maybe it's the fact that I have to be up in 5 hours to play a volleyball tournament. Either way, I have 363 other days to make up for this short page ;). Until tomorrow... Brad, there's day 2 of 365.
I won't get into the details, though, so don't worry. As the day moved on, things started improving. I was invited to dinner with my best friend, which was both surprising and awesome (dumplings! mmm). I treated myself to some new boots and some clothes. And finally I went out dancing. I ended the night on a good note and I feel great going into tomorrow.
Hmmm. Interesting that my page is significantly shorter when I'm happy. Or maybe it's the fact that I have to be up in 5 hours to play a volleyball tournament. Either way, I have 363 other days to make up for this short page ;). Until tomorrow... Brad, there's day 2 of 365.
Saturday, January 2, 2010
1.1.10 - Welcome to the Present
Last night - new years eve - Brad Paisley's last tweet was, "Tomorrow, is the first blank page of a 365 page book. Write a good one." It inspired me. If not for the entire year, at least temporarily. So, here it goes. This is the first post of my 365 page book. Welcome to the present!
Going into 2010 I already had expectations. Knowing that my job will be gone and I'll have to find a new one or pick a different path was already stressing me out. (Keep in mind I'm kind of buzzed writing this post...it's been a quasi crappy way to start the new year.). I THOUGHT my new year was going to start out ideal; golfing in the morning, a little lunch, a nap and some college football, dinner and some dancing at a "new" venue for me. Perhaps even meet a few new people.
After staying out until 130-200 am, and getting up at 645 for golf, I was really excited for what this new year had to bring. However, once I got to the golf course and realized the people that were supposed to be there were not there, the day turned from awesome to depressing in no time. I thought I was going to start it with friends and one of my favorite things to do, when instead I was alone and had nothing to do. I couldn't help but feel as I had been feeling for the last few weeks: alone and depressed.
I went home and watched some of the Rose Parade, reminiscing about the many parades I had marched as Trojan, and wishing life were as "simple" as it was in college. It got me thinking about how there are so many movies about High School angst and Mid-Life crises, but not so many about the people that are still struggling with what to do after college, and before they're married with children. Where does one turn to? Especially being the only one to go to college. Who do I go to for advice? I'm lost and I don't know who to turn to.
After sitting around the house sulking in silence, desperately staring at my phone for SOMEONE to text or call, I gave up on the year already. I went to dinner with my roommate, once he came home, and although he had no clue, it was the happiest moment of my day.
We came home, and in a food stupor, I fell asleep for a few hours. Doing absolutely nothing and thinking about how you have nothing do is exhausting.
After my "nap" I sat around debating on whether or not to go out dancing. For those that don't know, I'm a country music fan and love two-stepping and line dancing, even though I'm mediocre at best. I sat around having an argument with myself that went something like this: "If you just keep sleeping, you'll be just fine. But if you go out, you may meet some new people that enjoy doing what you do and make 2010 different than 2009." This went on for about 45 minutes before I decided to actually go out.
I arrived at Incahoots, a local country music bar. I met up with some of my friends from Cowboy Country, which is a place I frequent at least once a month. After having a few drinks, I still sat there intimidated by the younger crowd and feeling like I couldn't compete for anyone's attention and didn't have the "moves" to have the ladies come approach me! ;) I started to think again. "This year sucks. I suck. I got no confidence and nothing is different. I can't even come up with an excuse to change things!!"
After another couple drinks and a few dances I knew, I went out and at least enjoyed myself. However, I'm still stuck struggling with what to do with myself, who I am and how to get through all this without sounding like a depressed, disfunctional human being that masks his lack of confidence and strength with jokes and a fake smile. I need to change this.
If I plan on making 2010 the best year of my life, I've got a lot of work to do. Well Brad, there's day 1 of 365.
Going into 2010 I already had expectations. Knowing that my job will be gone and I'll have to find a new one or pick a different path was already stressing me out. (Keep in mind I'm kind of buzzed writing this post...it's been a quasi crappy way to start the new year.). I THOUGHT my new year was going to start out ideal; golfing in the morning, a little lunch, a nap and some college football, dinner and some dancing at a "new" venue for me. Perhaps even meet a few new people.
After staying out until 130-200 am, and getting up at 645 for golf, I was really excited for what this new year had to bring. However, once I got to the golf course and realized the people that were supposed to be there were not there, the day turned from awesome to depressing in no time. I thought I was going to start it with friends and one of my favorite things to do, when instead I was alone and had nothing to do. I couldn't help but feel as I had been feeling for the last few weeks: alone and depressed.
I went home and watched some of the Rose Parade, reminiscing about the many parades I had marched as Trojan, and wishing life were as "simple" as it was in college. It got me thinking about how there are so many movies about High School angst and Mid-Life crises, but not so many about the people that are still struggling with what to do after college, and before they're married with children. Where does one turn to? Especially being the only one to go to college. Who do I go to for advice? I'm lost and I don't know who to turn to.
After sitting around the house sulking in silence, desperately staring at my phone for SOMEONE to text or call, I gave up on the year already. I went to dinner with my roommate, once he came home, and although he had no clue, it was the happiest moment of my day.
We came home, and in a food stupor, I fell asleep for a few hours. Doing absolutely nothing and thinking about how you have nothing do is exhausting.
After my "nap" I sat around debating on whether or not to go out dancing. For those that don't know, I'm a country music fan and love two-stepping and line dancing, even though I'm mediocre at best. I sat around having an argument with myself that went something like this: "If you just keep sleeping, you'll be just fine. But if you go out, you may meet some new people that enjoy doing what you do and make 2010 different than 2009." This went on for about 45 minutes before I decided to actually go out.
I arrived at Incahoots, a local country music bar. I met up with some of my friends from Cowboy Country, which is a place I frequent at least once a month. After having a few drinks, I still sat there intimidated by the younger crowd and feeling like I couldn't compete for anyone's attention and didn't have the "moves" to have the ladies come approach me! ;) I started to think again. "This year sucks. I suck. I got no confidence and nothing is different. I can't even come up with an excuse to change things!!"
After another couple drinks and a few dances I knew, I went out and at least enjoyed myself. However, I'm still stuck struggling with what to do with myself, who I am and how to get through all this without sounding like a depressed, disfunctional human being that masks his lack of confidence and strength with jokes and a fake smile. I need to change this.
If I plan on making 2010 the best year of my life, I've got a lot of work to do. Well Brad, there's day 1 of 365.
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