* Truman Capote was so short that his mid-length coat fit full length. Apparently this caused some confusion when people were cross-checking their historical accuracy for costumes during the making of "Capote."
* Things are compared with, not compared to.
* Toward. Toward. Toward. Good grief.
* Crossing off all the goals you thought would make you feel happy and fulfilled and then not feeling happy and fulfilled is a scary situation.
* The urge to be part of a team never really subsides. Regardless of how small the team becomes.
* "Strange how an entire life hinges on certain choices."
Friday, December 21, 2007
Friday, December 14, 2007
12/13/07
* I'm completely unprepared for Christmas.
* The cold makes me grumpy. Or maybe I just blame the cold.
* The Spice Girls unveiled a Boeing 747 called Spice One at Heathrow airport today.
* Studies show that babies can develop a taste for alcohol in the womb. (At least rat babies do.)
* Different studies from a New York university show that all-nighters result in lower grades.
* FOX 2 Detroit anchor and reporter Lee Thomas suffers from vitiligo, a disease in which pigment-creating cells are destroyed. Over the years, his formerly-black hands have turned completely white, and he wears make-up to cover light patches around his eyes and mouth.
* Rupert Murdoch. Shareholders approved his $5 billion bid for Dow Jones today, and he addresses the Wall Street Journal newsroom ...standing on cardboard boxes.
* The editor of the Des Moines Register has moderated the most recent Democratic and Republican debates in Iowa. Her name? Carolyn Washburn.
* The cold makes me grumpy. Or maybe I just blame the cold.
* The Spice Girls unveiled a Boeing 747 called Spice One at Heathrow airport today.
* Studies show that babies can develop a taste for alcohol in the womb. (At least rat babies do.)
* Different studies from a New York university show that all-nighters result in lower grades.
* FOX 2 Detroit anchor and reporter Lee Thomas suffers from vitiligo, a disease in which pigment-creating cells are destroyed. Over the years, his formerly-black hands have turned completely white, and he wears make-up to cover light patches around his eyes and mouth.
* Rupert Murdoch. Shareholders approved his $5 billion bid for Dow Jones today, and he addresses the Wall Street Journal newsroom ...standing on cardboard boxes.
* The editor of the Des Moines Register has moderated the most recent Democratic and Republican debates in Iowa. Her name? Carolyn Washburn.
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
12/11/07
* Pepperoni is the most popular pizza topping in the U.S.
* Family gets more entertaining -- and, in many ways, more understanding -- as you get older.
* Nearly half of Americans will date someone at work during their careers, and about one in five of those will result in a long-term relationship.
* Also under "as you get older": You're more free to make decisions, the options come in a wider range, but often the risk (and potential payoff) also is greater.
* Brides in Asian cultures wear red.
* You're never as alone as you think.
* Barack Obama's nickname in high school was Barry.
* Emotions always are hard to nail down, but knowing that you're thought about when you're not around definitely is near the top of the list.
* Family gets more entertaining -- and, in many ways, more understanding -- as you get older.
* Nearly half of Americans will date someone at work during their careers, and about one in five of those will result in a long-term relationship.
* Also under "as you get older": You're more free to make decisions, the options come in a wider range, but often the risk (and potential payoff) also is greater.
* Brides in Asian cultures wear red.
* You're never as alone as you think.
* Barack Obama's nickname in high school was Barry.
* Emotions always are hard to nail down, but knowing that you're thought about when you're not around definitely is near the top of the list.
Saturday, December 8, 2007
12/7/07
* I'm finally ready to admit that it's Christmas. Thanksgiving is over, we've had a decent snowfall, and I didn't see anyone visibly frustrated with me when I went to Meijer and proceeded to be the single shopper with the obnoxiously full cart. Must be Christmas.
This is a poem my grandma stuffed in a present a few years ago. I'm pretty sure she found it in a magazine. (But she's been known to be pretty crafty, so you never know.)
"Now dear beloved Santa Claus,
Please listen to my prayer.
If near my home on Christmas Eve,
Leave just one present there.
It isn't for myself I ask,
But only for another.
Please leave a handsome son-in-law
For Daddy and for Mother."
Ha.
Happy holidays.
This is a poem my grandma stuffed in a present a few years ago. I'm pretty sure she found it in a magazine. (But she's been known to be pretty crafty, so you never know.)
"Now dear beloved Santa Claus,
Please listen to my prayer.
If near my home on Christmas Eve,
Leave just one present there.
It isn't for myself I ask,
But only for another.
Please leave a handsome son-in-law
For Daddy and for Mother."
Ha.
Happy holidays.
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
12/5/07
* The smaller your car, the bigger your ice scraper should be.
* Fingerless gloves: Good for inside the car. Great for the office. Bad for outside in the snow.
* Now I understand why there were so many people from Chicago in Phoenix.
* Fingerless gloves: Good for inside the car. Great for the office. Bad for outside in the snow.
* Now I understand why there were so many people from Chicago in Phoenix.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Thursday, November 29, 2007
11/28/07
* I'm not sure yet what I've learned from this because I'm still laughing about it:
I was on the phone not paying much attention when I was pulled over tonight after work for speeding. After the officer gave me a bit of a hard time for not having my current address on my license (updated it online -- no worries, folks), he asked me how long it'd been since I'd gotten a ticket. When I told him a long time, since I was 16 or 17, he asked if I wanted "a ticket or a written warning this evening." I said, "You know, I would love a written warning." He said he'd make sure my license was valid, give me a written warning and get me "on out of here." A (very cold) while later, he comes back to my window and asks if I know that my license is suspended. (Getting panicked) "Uhm. No..."
"Ha! Nah, I'm just kiddin'," he says. "Here's your license and insurance back. And here's your written warning. Do whatever you want with it. Take it home. Throw it away. Whatever, I don't care. Now you have a good night."
I was on the phone not paying much attention when I was pulled over tonight after work for speeding. After the officer gave me a bit of a hard time for not having my current address on my license (updated it online -- no worries, folks), he asked me how long it'd been since I'd gotten a ticket. When I told him a long time, since I was 16 or 17, he asked if I wanted "a ticket or a written warning this evening." I said, "You know, I would love a written warning." He said he'd make sure my license was valid, give me a written warning and get me "on out of here." A (very cold) while later, he comes back to my window and asks if I know that my license is suspended. (Getting panicked) "Uhm. No..."
"Ha! Nah, I'm just kiddin'," he says. "Here's your license and insurance back. And here's your written warning. Do whatever you want with it. Take it home. Throw it away. Whatever, I don't care. Now you have a good night."
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
11/26/07
* I started my first "blog" on Xanga on April 28, 2004. Like everyone else who hadn't yet taken time to fully understand the purpose or possible consequences of keeping a public, online journal, I poured my heart out almost every day. Let me tell you, few things are as entertaining as going back one, two, three, even four years to read what you've written, how you've felt, how dramatic everything was, and see how much you've changed (and, of course, how much you've stayed the same).
* I don't understand why cats nibble. It's weird. It's annoying. I can't make it stop.
* I read today that a friend of a friend said, "I'm getting to the point where I can't find desire in anything casual." He went on to talk about how he couldn't see investing in something he knew for sure wouldn't last. That sentiment seems to be popping up in a lot of places a from a lot of people in a lot of different situations lately. I think it's a great point. It reinforces valuing your time and being careful not to waste it. It also points out that we're getting to old to mess around with -- or screw up -- aspects of our lives that could someday be very important. Can you think of a more terrifying thought? I certainly can't.
* I don't understand why cats nibble. It's weird. It's annoying. I can't make it stop.
* I read today that a friend of a friend said, "I'm getting to the point where I can't find desire in anything casual." He went on to talk about how he couldn't see investing in something he knew for sure wouldn't last. That sentiment seems to be popping up in a lot of places a from a lot of people in a lot of different situations lately. I think it's a great point. It reinforces valuing your time and being careful not to waste it. It also points out that we're getting to old to mess around with -- or screw up -- aspects of our lives that could someday be very important. Can you think of a more terrifying thought? I certainly can't.
Monday, November 26, 2007
11/25/07
* I have to admit that I get a pretty giddy when people tell me they actually read my nonsense. Then again, it's never taken much. Regardless, thanks.
* A 19-year-old woman in Saudi Arabia was sentenced to jail time and lashings after she was gang raped by several men because she "invited the attack" by being partially undressed while with her lover in his car. I'm constantly amazed at the differences in cultures.
* After watching a day's worth of interior-design shows on TV, I started to wonder how a person's occupation changes them. Or if certain types of people are more drawn to certain careers. Designers, for the most part, seem to be concerned with making the customer happy. They want to follow directions and learn their personalities to design a room that best fits them individually. As journalists, it's partially our job to disregard what people will think. Not from a customer service standpoint, of course. But being objective means saying and doing what needs to be said and done in what we see as the best interest of readers without much care for how people will feel about it. Then I started to think about the "kind" of people journalists seem to be versus the "kind" of people I was watching on TV. Granted, those specific designers are cultivated to be more showy for the screen, but I'd imagine the idea is similar. Were those people "people pleasers" before they went into design? Or did they start weighing others' opinions over their own artistic expressions after they realized what the business entails? Similar in journalism. I've met my share of jaded, cynical veterans of the industry. But I can't help but wonder whether they came into it like that or whether they once could have been suited for something more ...friendly?
* I believe people often philosophize to keep their minds off their own, personal worries.
* Doing what makes you happy isn't always (dare I say rarely?) doing what's rational.
* A 19-year-old woman in Saudi Arabia was sentenced to jail time and lashings after she was gang raped by several men because she "invited the attack" by being partially undressed while with her lover in his car. I'm constantly amazed at the differences in cultures.
* After watching a day's worth of interior-design shows on TV, I started to wonder how a person's occupation changes them. Or if certain types of people are more drawn to certain careers. Designers, for the most part, seem to be concerned with making the customer happy. They want to follow directions and learn their personalities to design a room that best fits them individually. As journalists, it's partially our job to disregard what people will think. Not from a customer service standpoint, of course. But being objective means saying and doing what needs to be said and done in what we see as the best interest of readers without much care for how people will feel about it. Then I started to think about the "kind" of people journalists seem to be versus the "kind" of people I was watching on TV. Granted, those specific designers are cultivated to be more showy for the screen, but I'd imagine the idea is similar. Were those people "people pleasers" before they went into design? Or did they start weighing others' opinions over their own artistic expressions after they realized what the business entails? Similar in journalism. I've met my share of jaded, cynical veterans of the industry. But I can't help but wonder whether they came into it like that or whether they once could have been suited for something more ...friendly?
* I believe people often philosophize to keep their minds off their own, personal worries.
* Doing what makes you happy isn't always (dare I say rarely?) doing what's rational.
Thursday, November 22, 2007
11/21/07
* A lot of people have been buzzing about the SJ-R resignations. What's going to happen? Why are they leaving? Does this mean trouble for journalism other places? Well, I don't have the answers. In fact, I probably know less than many. But what I knew going into this profession was that it's a rough time across the board. People say newspapers are dying. I don't think that's true. I think they are evolving, yes, which normally would be a great thing. However, no one really knows how to handle this evolution, so they're making it up as they go along. It's trial and error. Sometimes the plan works; sometimes it doesn't. Things are always changing, and nothing is ever nailed down. But I guess most industries are like that in their own ways. The point is, I don't see the use in worrying about it. If things go bad, they go bad. There's nothing lil' ol' copy editor me can do about it, and that's ok because I wouldn't know where to start anyway. If it all goes under, I'll pack up a few of my things, move to Paris, and work in the American diner with that crazy art student. I would be 100 percent ok with that. And you're more than welcome to join.
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
11/20/07
* The wood from the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center is chopped up and used to build Habitat for Humanity homes after the holidays.
* Try to remember people. You never know when or in what capacity you'll run into them again.
* Scientists have figured out how to create stem cells from human skin instead of embryos.
* The publisher, editor and managing editor of The State Journal-Register in Springfield announced their resignations today. That's not nerve-wracking or anything.
* Try to remember people. You never know when or in what capacity you'll run into them again.
* Scientists have figured out how to create stem cells from human skin instead of embryos.
* The publisher, editor and managing editor of The State Journal-Register in Springfield announced their resignations today. That's not nerve-wracking or anything.
Monday, November 19, 2007
11/18/07
* Cats can get in and out of cabinets. Who knew?
* The past few days have been bizarre (not to be confused with bazaar). There's no other way to say it.
* The past few days have been bizarre (not to be confused with bazaar). There's no other way to say it.
11/17/07
* Content doesn't always mean complacent and happy doesn't always mean exciting.
* In many cases, you can't change a situation. You can't control what other people think or do. You'll be happier if you take things for what they are ...whatever that might be.
* Mushrooms are 90 percent water.
* Even cat medicine is pricey.
* In many cases, you can't change a situation. You can't control what other people think or do. You'll be happier if you take things for what they are ...whatever that might be.
* Mushrooms are 90 percent water.
* Even cat medicine is pricey.
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
11/13/07
* Spend time with people who want to spend time with you.
* The stupid feeling you might get asking questions is far outweighed by the reward, whether it be learning something about someone else, starting a good conversation or just getting a simple answer.
* I'm looking for someone who's interested in dressing up for no good reason, assuming a made-up identity, and going to see "Phantom of the Opera." Let me know.
* The stupid feeling you might get asking questions is far outweighed by the reward, whether it be learning something about someone else, starting a good conversation or just getting a simple answer.
* I'm looking for someone who's interested in dressing up for no good reason, assuming a made-up identity, and going to see "Phantom of the Opera." Let me know.
11/12/07
* Soundboards aren't as complicated as they look.
* Meijer gas stations are prepay only from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m., and you can't use credit cards at the service window (which makes no sense, but whatever).
* Maybe it's naive, but I think if you want something badly enough, you can work around just about anything.
* Meijer gas stations are prepay only from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m., and you can't use credit cards at the service window (which makes no sense, but whatever).
* Maybe it's naive, but I think if you want something badly enough, you can work around just about anything.
Sunday, November 11, 2007
11/10/07
* Sometimes you really have to work for your weekend. Even when the weekend is just Sunday.
* The problem with trying to define yourself is that you'll change.
* Actions are no indication of a person's true feelings. I have a hunch this doesn't change.
* The problem with trying to define yourself is that you'll change.
* Actions are no indication of a person's true feelings. I have a hunch this doesn't change.
Saturday, November 10, 2007
11/9/07
* Some people never change, and that's not always a bad thing.
* Soldering one's engagement and wedding rings together apparently is a normal thing to do.
* Emotions rarely make sense. Maybe that comes with being able to control them.
* "Seinfeld" will always be funny.
* It's amazing what a difference wall hangings can make.
* Soldering one's engagement and wedding rings together apparently is a normal thing to do.
* Emotions rarely make sense. Maybe that comes with being able to control them.
* "Seinfeld" will always be funny.
* It's amazing what a difference wall hangings can make.
Friday, November 9, 2007
11/8/07
Ok, ok. I'm working on my stickwithitness. Be patient.
* Very rarely -- dare I say never -- is any given situation a perfect one. Something always will taint it and leave just enough room for doubt and unhappiness if you allow those things to fill that space. Part of finding whatever it is that makes you happy is deciding which of those imperfect aspects you're willing to work with. Accept. Make better. Maybe even learn from.
* FIFA has a World Cup for beach soccer.
* I imagine everyone gets at least a little giddy at the thought of being something special, even in the smallest way.
* During the Cold War, the U.S. government actually likened the "everyday risk" associated with the atomic bomb with that of slipping on a bar of soap in the shower. The "duck and cover" routine -- which was aimed at small children with a cartoon turtle and catchy jingle, mind you -- also apparently was just an easy way to get people on the ground so to better scoop their bodies up. Oh, and fallout shelters often served as areas that "asphyxiated or incinerated" those inside.
* Cats have scent glands on the sides of their faces, so rubbing their whiskers on things is one way of marking their territory ...according to a volunteer at the animal shelter.
* Don't underestimate people with truly great conversation skills. You probably won't find many of them.
* Keep a dictionary around. Especially when you read. (I laughed at my English teachers, too, but I guess they knew a thing or two after all.)
* "We never get back our youth. The pulse of joy that beat in us at 20 becomes sluggish. Our limbs fail, our senses rot. We degenerate into hideous puppets, haunted by the memory of the passions of which we were too much afraid, and the exquisite temptations that we had not the courage to yield to."
* Very rarely -- dare I say never -- is any given situation a perfect one. Something always will taint it and leave just enough room for doubt and unhappiness if you allow those things to fill that space. Part of finding whatever it is that makes you happy is deciding which of those imperfect aspects you're willing to work with. Accept. Make better. Maybe even learn from.
* FIFA has a World Cup for beach soccer.
* I imagine everyone gets at least a little giddy at the thought of being something special, even in the smallest way.
* During the Cold War, the U.S. government actually likened the "everyday risk" associated with the atomic bomb with that of slipping on a bar of soap in the shower. The "duck and cover" routine -- which was aimed at small children with a cartoon turtle and catchy jingle, mind you -- also apparently was just an easy way to get people on the ground so to better scoop their bodies up. Oh, and fallout shelters often served as areas that "asphyxiated or incinerated" those inside.
* Cats have scent glands on the sides of their faces, so rubbing their whiskers on things is one way of marking their territory ...according to a volunteer at the animal shelter.
* Don't underestimate people with truly great conversation skills. You probably won't find many of them.
* Keep a dictionary around. Especially when you read. (I laughed at my English teachers, too, but I guess they knew a thing or two after all.)
* "We never get back our youth. The pulse of joy that beat in us at 20 becomes sluggish. Our limbs fail, our senses rot. We degenerate into hideous puppets, haunted by the memory of the passions of which we were too much afraid, and the exquisite temptations that we had not the courage to yield to."
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
10/23/07
* Wendy's caesar salad is climbing up the list. mmm mmm.
* Obits still make me cry.
* All of a sudden, CVS sells a ton of liquor. Weird.
* Don't blow people off. Just don't.
* To be hospitalized, you must be admitted.
* I get the feeling that as you get older, you don't actually have it any more together than you did when you were younger. You just get better at looking like you do. I also think that's part of what helps us appreciate and relate to people who used to be "old." (Remember your 25-year-old grade-school teacher? Ha.)
* Obits still make me cry.
* All of a sudden, CVS sells a ton of liquor. Weird.
* Don't blow people off. Just don't.
* To be hospitalized, you must be admitted.
* I get the feeling that as you get older, you don't actually have it any more together than you did when you were younger. You just get better at looking like you do. I also think that's part of what helps us appreciate and relate to people who used to be "old." (Remember your 25-year-old grade-school teacher? Ha.)
Monday, October 22, 2007
10/21/07
* Something about not being too involved allows you to appreciate aspects of people you wouldn't otherwise notice.
* This could be good or bad. Maybe even a twisted combination of the two.
* Just saying.
* This could be good or bad. Maybe even a twisted combination of the two.
* Just saying.
Sunday, October 21, 2007
10/20/07
* In the "Scrubs" pilot, there's a scene where J.D. is standing in the hospital lobby. He's moving at a normal speed, and everyone around him is whizzing by. They're moving so fast that he seems to be moving in slow motion. That's what I've felt like lately, and I can't quite figure it out.
* I'll be another year older in 22 days.
* People confuse me. People I know, people I don't know... The way people interact and why and the feelings or lack thereof behind it will always be a huge mystery.
* I'll be another year older in 22 days.
* People confuse me. People I know, people I don't know... The way people interact and why and the feelings or lack thereof behind it will always be a huge mystery.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
10/15/07
* I thought things were supposed to get easier after school.
(Is it too late to explore a little?)
(Is it too late to explore a little?)
Monday, October 15, 2007
10/14/07
* I didn't play enough pranks as a kid.
* Michael Jordan's son is playing for U of I.
* The pumpkin in my hallway is in a different place every time I'm out there.
* It's good to realize new things. Or rediscover thing you always knew.
* Crazy links turn up everywhere. The six degrees of separation theory is creepy.
* What do you have to lose?
* Michael Jordan's son is playing for U of I.
* The pumpkin in my hallway is in a different place every time I'm out there.
* It's good to realize new things. Or rediscover thing you always knew.
* Crazy links turn up everywhere. The six degrees of separation theory is creepy.
* What do you have to lose?
Saturday, October 13, 2007
10/12/07
Wow, I'm just a huge slacker. I'd like to say I've been all about meeting people and doing new things, but that's only part of the reason I can't seem to stick with it lately... The other part is, well, I'm lazy.
Anyway...
* Secrets still are a lot of fun.
* Does hearing other people laugh NOT make anyone else happy? (Laughing is not cackling, mind you.) And trying not to laugh when you know you shouldn't will only make it that much funnier.
* I think a lot of middle schoolers might be downright crazy.
* Some lipsticks have dangerous levels of lead in them. Check this out to learn more about stuff you're putting on your body.
* People who go to the gym at 5 a.m. are really hardcore about it. Don't get in the way. You might lose an appendage.
Anyway...
* Secrets still are a lot of fun.
* Does hearing other people laugh NOT make anyone else happy? (Laughing is not cackling, mind you.) And trying not to laugh when you know you shouldn't will only make it that much funnier.
* I think a lot of middle schoolers might be downright crazy.
* Some lipsticks have dangerous levels of lead in them. Check this out to learn more about stuff you're putting on your body.
* People who go to the gym at 5 a.m. are really hardcore about it. Don't get in the way. You might lose an appendage.
Monday, October 8, 2007
10/7/07
* Barbed wire was created in Dekalb, Illinois.
* The Energizer Bunny has a sister, and she goes to my gym.
* Nevada didn't have enough people to legally become a state, but the government OK'd it anyway so they could dig for shiny things.
* I prefer "okay" to "OK." Yeah, it takes up more room, but AP likes "because of" better than "due to," so I think it's all good.
* Sometime blood is not, in fact, thicker than water.
* The best friends are those who can appreciate the ridiculousness of your situation.
* I'm not gonna lie. I wouldn't feel all that bad hitting one of the geese living in the parking lot at work. Stupid birds.
* The Energizer Bunny has a sister, and she goes to my gym.
* Nevada didn't have enough people to legally become a state, but the government OK'd it anyway so they could dig for shiny things.
* I prefer "okay" to "OK." Yeah, it takes up more room, but AP likes "because of" better than "due to," so I think it's all good.
* Sometime blood is not, in fact, thicker than water.
* The best friends are those who can appreciate the ridiculousness of your situation.
* I'm not gonna lie. I wouldn't feel all that bad hitting one of the geese living in the parking lot at work. Stupid birds.
Saturday, October 6, 2007
10/6/07
* "The absence of disqualifiers is a rare and beautiful thing."
* Vera Wang got engaged (for the first time) at age 39.
* Journey is one of Johnny Rotten's favorite bands.
* If you know how to change Quark settings so you can draw new boxes WITHOUT them automatically grouping with the existing ones, please let me know.
* People generally aren't the way they initially appear. A lot of times, they turn out better. Sometimes they turn out much worse. Either way, deal.
* I feel like doing a "Things That Annoy Me" segment, but if there's anything worse than whining, it's whining to no one in particular.
* Strangest things I've heard lately: Apparently someone out there thinks I a) am intimidating (ha!) and b) look like a Gap model from the nose down (see above).
* Here's a tip: Don't ever go back to get something they forgot at a fast-food place when you have to go through the drive-through (or "thru" as Teddy Roosevelt would say). Doesn't matter if it's 1 a.m. You'll get stuck behind the woman who has 15 picky kids to feed.
(* In 1906, Teddy Roosevelt tried to push Simplified Spelling in the U.S. (He wasn't the first.) As you can see, some stuck. Some didn't. Some people insist on using the ones that didn't, of course. I assume this is only to spite editors around the world.)
* Sharper Image sells an alarm clock that will roll off your nightstand and hide until to get up and turn it off. No joke.
10/5/07
* So I was feeling pretty good after going to the gym today, and I said to Myself, "Hey, how about a movie?" So I took Myself over to the theater, got some popcorn and such and enjoyed a pretty good show. Afterward, shopping sounded like a good plan, so I steered Myself over to one of the giant suburban strip malls and meandered around a bit. I even found Myself a great calendar for next year. (How thoughtful of me to remember the Audrey fascination, huh?) I walked away with some work clothes and a couple of CDs, so I'd say it was a pretty good date. I mean, it was a little quiet, but it is what it is, right? (I find Myself saying that more often than usual lately.) Just to switch it up a bit, I might even spend the night. We'll see how it goes...
* The machine guns issued to American soldiers during World War I were so badly designed and built that most soldiers immediately threw them out and looked for something better on their own. They were selected by politicians. Better guns were available, but they weren't issued to Americans out of fear that Germans would get a hold of them, manufacture their own, and use them against us.
* Even with all the intelligence and technology NASA has at its disposal, it's pretty shocking to think about how often it has screwed up -- and in really big ways.
* Watching movies/documentaries about the 1960s often makes me feel like I'm not doing anything that really matters.
* My new coat works really well. Too bad my A/C does, too.
* People are full of interesting things. Sometimes you have to coax them out a little.
* The machine guns issued to American soldiers during World War I were so badly designed and built that most soldiers immediately threw them out and looked for something better on their own. They were selected by politicians. Better guns were available, but they weren't issued to Americans out of fear that Germans would get a hold of them, manufacture their own, and use them against us.
* Even with all the intelligence and technology NASA has at its disposal, it's pretty shocking to think about how often it has screwed up -- and in really big ways.
* Watching movies/documentaries about the 1960s often makes me feel like I'm not doing anything that really matters.
* My new coat works really well. Too bad my A/C does, too.
* People are full of interesting things. Sometimes you have to coax them out a little.
Friday, October 5, 2007
10/4/07
* Happy October! Crazy that it's fall already. What more do you need than scarves and Halloween...
* During the hiatus, I hosted my lovely parents for a few days and had a great time. Learn to appreciate hanging out with your family. You'd be surprised.
* Medieval Times is pretty intense.
* You're not in as good a shape as you think. Any kind of health-related test will emphasize that. Be prepared.
* The city is "capital" and the building is "Capitol."
* Matchbox 20 renamed themselves Matchbox Twenty after their first album. I really like the new stuff ...still trying to decide whether to file that under "guilty pleasure." (The new Dashboard Confessional album already has been filed by default.)
* Somewhere in Chicago, there's this giant shiny bean I keep hearing about. I have no idea what it is, but I will find it and take a photo just like everyone else.
* I still can't get over that the members of Alkaline Trio grew up just down the road a bit.
* Only a small group of the Donner party resorted to cannibalism. And they waited a few months. They also left from Springfield, Illinois.
* Even the coach of the White Sox says "it is what it is." Has to be a northern thing.
* During the hiatus, I hosted my lovely parents for a few days and had a great time. Learn to appreciate hanging out with your family. You'd be surprised.
* Medieval Times is pretty intense.
* You're not in as good a shape as you think. Any kind of health-related test will emphasize that. Be prepared.
* The city is "capital" and the building is "Capitol."
* Matchbox 20 renamed themselves Matchbox Twenty after their first album. I really like the new stuff ...still trying to decide whether to file that under "guilty pleasure." (The new Dashboard Confessional album already has been filed by default.)
* Somewhere in Chicago, there's this giant shiny bean I keep hearing about. I have no idea what it is, but I will find it and take a photo just like everyone else.
* I still can't get over that the members of Alkaline Trio grew up just down the road a bit.
* Only a small group of the Donner party resorted to cannibalism. And they waited a few months. They also left from Springfield, Illinois.
* Even the coach of the White Sox says "it is what it is." Has to be a northern thing.
Thursday, September 27, 2007
9/26/07
* "The more you know who you are and what you want, the less you let things upset you."
That movie isn't as bad as I remember. Wonder what changed.
* Everyone has a soft side ...or at least a side that can be rationalized into appearing soft.
* Mixing the active ingredient in Tylenol and other pain relievers (acetaminophen) with large doses of caffeine can cause liver damage.
* I've counted my shoes, and I think the footwear fairy would be proud.
* This is a great quiz to try -- especially if you don't know WHY you plan to vote for whomever you plan to vote for. (You think you know, but you have no idea.) Also a good way to get down to the basics of the major issues. Be an informed citizen.
* Check out this site to read about a Canadian journalist who will change some aspect of her life each day for a year to live more healthfully for herself and the environment. (Don't roll your eyes and start cursing the treehuggers just yet. She's down to earth and taking baby steps -- trying to prove that even the little things can make a difference.) Pretty interesting.
* Even delegates in the U.N. -- world leaders from the U.S. and other countries -- gather their friends and walk out when someone they don't like gets up to speak. They might as well plug their ears, shut their eyes and start yelling "na na na na na na!"
* Stories are always a more interesting when they fall out of character for the role the storyteller plays in your head.
That movie isn't as bad as I remember. Wonder what changed.
* Everyone has a soft side ...or at least a side that can be rationalized into appearing soft.
* Mixing the active ingredient in Tylenol and other pain relievers (acetaminophen) with large doses of caffeine can cause liver damage.
* I've counted my shoes, and I think the footwear fairy would be proud.
* This is a great quiz to try -- especially if you don't know WHY you plan to vote for whomever you plan to vote for. (You think you know, but you have no idea.) Also a good way to get down to the basics of the major issues. Be an informed citizen.
* Check out this site to read about a Canadian journalist who will change some aspect of her life each day for a year to live more healthfully for herself and the environment. (Don't roll your eyes and start cursing the treehuggers just yet. She's down to earth and taking baby steps -- trying to prove that even the little things can make a difference.) Pretty interesting.
* Even delegates in the U.N. -- world leaders from the U.S. and other countries -- gather their friends and walk out when someone they don't like gets up to speak. They might as well plug their ears, shut their eyes and start yelling "na na na na na na!"
* Stories are always a more interesting when they fall out of character for the role the storyteller plays in your head.
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
9/25/07
* It has occurred to me, dear single ladies of the world, that it might be wise to carry the name, occupation, favorite book and birth date of a ..."boyfriend"... around in the back of your head. (Said vital info on a ..."fiance" or "husband"... also would do the trick. However, do make that decision before you realize you're not wearing your ..."engagement/wedding ring"... at the moment.) ... I get the feeling this is something I should have figured out long ago.
* Sugarfree gum has been approved by the ADA and has been proven to be beneficial for your teeth. This includes Orbit. (Why would you be chewing anything else?)
* I enjoy a funny video as much as the next guy and/or gal, but if you have so little to do that you can afford to sit around cackling at whatever you stumble across online, it's probably time to go home.
* I also know we're not totally down with Iran, but is it really necessary to poke a stick at the already-inflamed situation by inviting its president to one of our "wonderful universities" only to insult him to no end and make ourselves seem exactly the way everyone else in the world already assumes we are? Seriously.
* The thing about rain: Makes frolicking better; suede shoes, not so much.
* Bookstores/sites have a way of sucking up all your money. Watch out.
* Things are not always what they seem. Character comes from figuring out how to gracefully deal with the way they actually are.
* Sugarfree gum has been approved by the ADA and has been proven to be beneficial for your teeth. This includes Orbit. (Why would you be chewing anything else?)
* I enjoy a funny video as much as the next guy and/or gal, but if you have so little to do that you can afford to sit around cackling at whatever you stumble across online, it's probably time to go home.
* I also know we're not totally down with Iran, but is it really necessary to poke a stick at the already-inflamed situation by inviting its president to one of our "wonderful universities" only to insult him to no end and make ourselves seem exactly the way everyone else in the world already assumes we are? Seriously.
* The thing about rain: Makes frolicking better; suede shoes, not so much.
* Bookstores/sites have a way of sucking up all your money. Watch out.
* Things are not always what they seem. Character comes from figuring out how to gracefully deal with the way they actually are.
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
9/24/07
* Everyone relax. I've found the elusive non-Randall Road Panera Bread. And I even had to turn left across traffic with no light to do it. Ha.
* Speaking of lights -- you might actually need to know this -- the blinding white beams on traffic lights are for emergency vehicles. Apparently they're used so a) ambulances, etc. can use lights and not sirens and b) you know they're coming without having to turn down your radio/iPod/obnoxious passenger.
* Pay attention when you're driving and do not honk at me when you're the one navigating like an idiot.
* Speaking of idiots, have you ever driven a car without turn signals? No? Hmm... Well, I'd guess that means there's no shortage and it's probably ok to USE THEM.
* Read more.
* Speaking of lights -- you might actually need to know this -- the blinding white beams on traffic lights are for emergency vehicles. Apparently they're used so a) ambulances, etc. can use lights and not sirens and b) you know they're coming without having to turn down your radio/iPod/obnoxious passenger.
* Pay attention when you're driving and do not honk at me when you're the one navigating like an idiot.
* Speaking of idiots, have you ever driven a car without turn signals? No? Hmm... Well, I'd guess that means there's no shortage and it's probably ok to USE THEM.
* Read more.
Monday, September 24, 2007
9/23/07
* Disney's EPCOT = Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow
* Dishwashers confuse me.
* Manga is the comic-book version of Japanese anime. It's read right to left, back to front ...like Japanese stuff tends to be.
* A 12-year-old boy from Afghanistan who acts in the upcoming movie version of "The Kite Runner" (which I've never read but hear is great) worries his family will be harassed for a scene in the film.
* I'm still very. very. freaked out by splinters.
* Learning to laugh at yourself really isn't optional if you plan to make friends ...well, ever.
* The scent of vanilla has been proven to relieve stress.
* All I know about football is that Tony Romo went to Eastern. And I'm pretty ok with that.
* Dishwashers confuse me.
* Manga is the comic-book version of Japanese anime. It's read right to left, back to front ...like Japanese stuff tends to be.
* A 12-year-old boy from Afghanistan who acts in the upcoming movie version of "The Kite Runner" (which I've never read but hear is great) worries his family will be harassed for a scene in the film.
* I'm still very. very. freaked out by splinters.
* Learning to laugh at yourself really isn't optional if you plan to make friends ...well, ever.
* The scent of vanilla has been proven to relieve stress.
* All I know about football is that Tony Romo went to Eastern. And I'm pretty ok with that.
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
9/18/07
* One of the world's 7,000 unique languages dies every two weeks.
* It's official: The number of employees at the office is greater than the number of parking spaces.
* Does time really heal all wounds, or does it just make everything more complicated?
* It's official: The number of employees at the office is greater than the number of parking spaces.
* Does time really heal all wounds, or does it just make everything more complicated?
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
9/17/07
* Yet another reason not to wear those goofy looking Crocs: They've been getting caught in escalators across the world, in some cases, injuring children. No kidding.
* Calling people "kiddo" doesn't make you any taller.
* Just ask that question you think is a stupid one. You'll feel better most of the time.
* Hospitals in Britain have banned neckties and long-sleeved coats (yes, the white ones) because they harbor bacteria.
* I'm almost certain computer problems can't happen in singles ...or more than 20 minutes before deadline.
* Still waiting for that nice man at CVS to get a raise for the "pretty lady" comments.
* Calling people "kiddo" doesn't make you any taller.
* Just ask that question you think is a stupid one. You'll feel better most of the time.
* Hospitals in Britain have banned neckties and long-sleeved coats (yes, the white ones) because they harbor bacteria.
* I'm almost certain computer problems can't happen in singles ...or more than 20 minutes before deadline.
* Still waiting for that nice man at CVS to get a raise for the "pretty lady" comments.
Monday, September 17, 2007
9/16/07
* From a newspaper standpoint, the Emmys come with all the hassle of elections -- just add some fancy clothes and subtract a lot of meaning.
* I'm not stoked about being associated with O.J. Simpson again just because he can't keep himself out of trouble. I thought we were past this.
* People of Crystal Lake: Raccoons sans tails are not necessarily rabid. (Oh, the memories the scanner will make...)
* Rock yards are highly underrated.
* I'm not stoked about being associated with O.J. Simpson again just because he can't keep himself out of trouble. I thought we were past this.
* People of Crystal Lake: Raccoons sans tails are not necessarily rabid. (Oh, the memories the scanner will make...)
* Rock yards are highly underrated.
Sunday, September 16, 2007
9/15/07
* Not much to say lately. Well, really more like no time to say it. Apologies.
* Almost everything you do has an effect on others. Keep that in mind.
* Kentucky Fried Chicken > KFC > Kitchen Fresh Chicken
* "It's a girl thing. Girls know when guys flirt... (blah blah blah)" -- some woman from some really bad show on E! at 2 a.m.
...Not. True.
* "The Suze Orman Show" falls in the "guilty pleasure" category.
* Eight pages in a night is doable. Surprisingly.
* Having a schedule opposite of most other people is harder to work with than I'd imagined.
* There's a self-washing, self-drying cat litter box on the market called the Cat Genie.
* Staying up too late and seeing every infomercial out there: probably not a good thing...
* Almost everything you do has an effect on others. Keep that in mind.
* Kentucky Fried Chicken > KFC > Kitchen Fresh Chicken
* "It's a girl thing. Girls know when guys flirt... (blah blah blah)" -- some woman from some really bad show on E! at 2 a.m.
...Not. True.
* "The Suze Orman Show" falls in the "guilty pleasure" category.
* Eight pages in a night is doable. Surprisingly.
* Having a schedule opposite of most other people is harder to work with than I'd imagined.
* There's a self-washing, self-drying cat litter box on the market called the Cat Genie.
* Staying up too late and seeing every infomercial out there: probably not a good thing...
Thursday, September 13, 2007
9/12/07
* Things can change so much faster than you think.
* (Roughly) "It's the life you've made. Don't act like it's not yours."
* Don't think it's unreasonable to want someone who will love you for your mind.
* AP says break Web addresses before the punctuation.
* (Roughly) "It's the life you've made. Don't act like it's not yours."
* Don't think it's unreasonable to want someone who will love you for your mind.
* AP says break Web addresses before the punctuation.
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
9/11/07
* There are roughly 2,000 dots in a large cup of Dippin' Dots. The creator is a microbiologist, and one of the first vendors was in Pulaski County, Illinois.
* Pretzels started as rewards to little monks when they learned their verses correctly. The shape is to teach them how to pray (arms crossed and whatnot).
* Only in the Midwest can you walk into work in a T-shirt and walk out of work needing a scarf and jacket.
* Sept. 11 is officially Patriot Day. (I get the feeling I'm probably the only one who didn't know this.)
* Double check your mugshots.
* ...and slug photos correctly.
* Certain educators choose not to acknowledge 9/11 in class (specifically on the anniversary and usually for younger children) because they don't want to scare the students or force them to deal with such a dramatic event. Your thoughts?
* Pretzels started as rewards to little monks when they learned their verses correctly. The shape is to teach them how to pray (arms crossed and whatnot).
* Only in the Midwest can you walk into work in a T-shirt and walk out of work needing a scarf and jacket.
* Sept. 11 is officially Patriot Day. (I get the feeling I'm probably the only one who didn't know this.)
* Double check your mugshots.
* ...and slug photos correctly.
* Certain educators choose not to acknowledge 9/11 in class (specifically on the anniversary and usually for younger children) because they don't want to scare the students or force them to deal with such a dramatic event. Your thoughts?
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
9/10/07
* Mary Kate Olsen is joining the cast of "Weeds"
...which just goes to show that nothing is perfect.
* If political preference stems at all from individual income, it makes perfect sense that the media is made up of a bunch of liberals.
...which just goes to show that nothing is perfect.
* If political preference stems at all from individual income, it makes perfect sense that the media is made up of a bunch of liberals.
Monday, September 10, 2007
9/9/07
* The Hershey's chocolate marshmallow pumpkins are far superior to the Russel Stover variety.
* It's Halloween already at CVS.
* Brain function is linked to political preference, and liberals handle conflict better.
* I live close to an airport ...apparently.
* When it rains, it pours. Figuratively and guaranteed.
* One of the great things about being a journalist is the better-than-average chance of knowing a ton of photographers -- which means knowing you'll always have great pictures.
* Geneva has an annual wine festival -- grape stomp and all.
* It's Halloween already at CVS.
* Brain function is linked to political preference, and liberals handle conflict better.
* I live close to an airport ...apparently.
* When it rains, it pours. Figuratively and guaranteed.
* One of the great things about being a journalist is the better-than-average chance of knowing a ton of photographers -- which means knowing you'll always have great pictures.
* Geneva has an annual wine festival -- grape stomp and all.
Saturday, September 8, 2007
9/6/07
* Sometimes it's hard to appreciate things for exactly what they are -- no more, no less.
* Heels can work wonders for your confidence.
* Second City is a really good time. Watch out for the camera in the lobby, though...
* There are few things better than good conversation.
* Heels can work wonders for your confidence.
* Second City is a really good time. Watch out for the camera in the lobby, though...
* There are few things better than good conversation.
Thursday, September 6, 2007
9/5/07
* Pavarotti died. He was 71.
* The easiest way to ruin your favorite album is to listen to it during a bad transition in your life. You'll always associate certain songs with certain experiences. Choose wisely.
* You never really have to grow up.
* The easiest way to ruin your favorite album is to listen to it during a bad transition in your life. You'll always associate certain songs with certain experiences. Choose wisely.
* You never really have to grow up.
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
9/4/07
* I'm no good with distance, but my place is exactly one junior strawberry milkshake from the SNS.
* Remember Perfection? That game where you try to get all the little pieces in before the thing blows up in your face? I have a sneaking suspicion They created that game to prepare you for what life's really like.
* Don't be the idiot who washes the fuchsia towel with the khaki pants.
* Remember Perfection? That game where you try to get all the little pieces in before the thing blows up in your face? I have a sneaking suspicion They created that game to prepare you for what life's really like.
* Don't be the idiot who washes the fuchsia towel with the khaki pants.
Tuesday, September 4, 2007
9/3/07
* Never settle.
* Don't underestimate the power of conversation.
* Unpack as soon as you can or it'll never get done.
* Numbers are confusing.
* Don't underestimate the power of conversation.
* Unpack as soon as you can or it'll never get done.
* Numbers are confusing.
Monday, September 3, 2007
Sunday, September 2, 2007
9/1/07
* September already. Yikes.
* The Sears Tower contains enough telephone wiring to wrap around the earth 1.7 times and is built with enough steel to make 69,000 cars.
* Rhode Island was formed when Massachusetts kicked a bunch of people out.
* Abe Lincoln was 6'4" tall. Once when he was challenged to a duel, he chose military broad swords as the weapon because he thought it'd be funny.
* Illinois farmland goes for about $5,000 an acre.
* Cahokia housed what is considered to be the most civilized group of Native Americans north of Mexico.
* Al Capone ended up in Chicago after he killed a man in Brooklyn at the age of 22. He was also known for being an equal-opportunist. He worked with all races and nationalities because he thought he'd make more money.
* PT Barnum (of Barnum and Bailey circus) was a Connecticut state legislator.
* The first hamburger as we know it was served at Louis Lunch (pronounced "Louis' " -- which drives me crazy) in Connecticut.
(...ok, so I got distracted watching "The States" on the History Channel today.)
* The Sears Tower contains enough telephone wiring to wrap around the earth 1.7 times and is built with enough steel to make 69,000 cars.
* Rhode Island was formed when Massachusetts kicked a bunch of people out.
* Abe Lincoln was 6'4" tall. Once when he was challenged to a duel, he chose military broad swords as the weapon because he thought it'd be funny.
* Illinois farmland goes for about $5,000 an acre.
* Cahokia housed what is considered to be the most civilized group of Native Americans north of Mexico.
* Al Capone ended up in Chicago after he killed a man in Brooklyn at the age of 22. He was also known for being an equal-opportunist. He worked with all races and nationalities because he thought he'd make more money.
* PT Barnum (of Barnum and Bailey circus) was a Connecticut state legislator.
* The first hamburger as we know it was served at Louis Lunch (pronounced "Louis' " -- which drives me crazy) in Connecticut.
(...ok, so I got distracted watching "The States" on the History Channel today.)
Saturday, September 1, 2007
8/31/07
* The nice thing about working at a newspaper is that you get to start over every day. (That way, you always have a chance to redeem yourself after those you-just-suck sort of nights.)
* Way to go, Joe, for having a hand in the Poshard story.
* I know it's technically correct, but every time I read a sentence such as, "He said he would retire next year," I can't help but wonder ...and now he won't? is there a "but"? what happened? Drives. Me. Nuts.
* I will follow the rules. I will follow the rules. I will...
* Next time you get sick of your roommate, think about how much worse coming home to an empty house could be.
* "Now remember, Amy, it happened for a reason..." Weird how mom and might-as-well-be mom tend to say the same things.
* Way to go, Joe, for having a hand in the Poshard story.
* I know it's technically correct, but every time I read a sentence such as, "He said he would retire next year," I can't help but wonder ...and now he won't? is there a "but"? what happened? Drives. Me. Nuts.
* I will follow the rules. I will follow the rules. I will...
* Next time you get sick of your roommate, think about how much worse coming home to an empty house could be.
* "Now remember, Amy, it happened for a reason..." Weird how mom and might-as-well-be mom tend to say the same things.
Friday, August 31, 2007
8/30/07
* No matter how hard you've studied, trained or practiced, some days you. just. suck.
* Journalism majors: I don't know how it is in other professions, but if you think you're actually going to have a 40-hour-a-week job when you get to the "real world," you're kidding yourself. (Maybe that's the time you're NOT supposed to be at work?) And don't expect to eat much, either. Do yourself a favor and learn to like microwavables and finger foods. Some things from college are here to stay.
* Journalism majors: I don't know how it is in other professions, but if you think you're actually going to have a 40-hour-a-week job when you get to the "real world," you're kidding yourself. (Maybe that's the time you're NOT supposed to be at work?) And don't expect to eat much, either. Do yourself a favor and learn to like microwavables and finger foods. Some things from college are here to stay.
Thursday, August 30, 2007
8/29/07
* There's always someone out there who understands. There's always someone who agrees. Someone who's going through the same experience. If you happen to find them, you're really lucky.
* Being responsible and on top of things are very admirable (and attractive) qualities. So is taking care of yourself.
* The tallest woman in the world had a tumor that pressed on her pituitary gland and increased the production of growth hormone. She was something like 7'8" and still growing ...I don't know what happened to her because I fell asleep during the documentary.
* Sometimes it's ok to sit around all day. Just make sure it's the exception, not the rule. Avoid cliches like the plague.
* And sometimes you just want to be alone. (At least watch the intro video -- it's an interesting project.)
* Compliments always mean more than you think they will.
* Being responsible and on top of things are very admirable (and attractive) qualities. So is taking care of yourself.
* The tallest woman in the world had a tumor that pressed on her pituitary gland and increased the production of growth hormone. She was something like 7'8" and still growing ...I don't know what happened to her because I fell asleep during the documentary.
* Sometimes it's ok to sit around all day. Just make sure it's the exception, not the rule. Avoid cliches like the plague.
* And sometimes you just want to be alone. (At least watch the intro video -- it's an interesting project.)
* Compliments always mean more than you think they will.
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
8/28/07
* The right company can make just about anything a good time.
* Toll roads are poorly designed. In what universe does it make sense to flow five lanes into one with no lines?
* Peaks and valleys. Peaks and valleys.
* The things you would never guess about a person often are the most interesting.
* Toll roads are poorly designed. In what universe does it make sense to flow five lanes into one with no lines?
* Peaks and valleys. Peaks and valleys.
* The things you would never guess about a person often are the most interesting.
Monday, August 27, 2007
8/26/07
* Every place you go has different house methods. You'll think some are wrong. Sometimes you have to trick yourself and understand that you can never win the proverbial game if you don't play by the rules. You have to take things from the inside up. (This is what's wrong with the "Damn the Man" mentality.)
* Hershey makes neapolitan kisses.
* The man at CVS should get a raise for calling me "pretty lady" and offering to help carry my bags.
* If you do you grocery shopping at midnight, you're either in college or working second shift. Some things never change.
* A few points you should know about most things organic:
a) Whether it's body wash or peanut butter, you will have to shake, stir or blend before use.
b) All natural means no fragrances. Don't expect it all to smell great.
c) The texture will be different. Probably more soup-like. ...A very thin soup.
* Lemonade-cranberry: not such a great mixture. (And just because something's in a pretty bottle doesn't make it taste good.)
* Unpack every last box the day you move in. Otherwise, it'll never get done. Trust me.
* Arizona brand green tea: made in Canada.
* Hershey makes neapolitan kisses.
* The man at CVS should get a raise for calling me "pretty lady" and offering to help carry my bags.
* If you do you grocery shopping at midnight, you're either in college or working second shift. Some things never change.
* A few points you should know about most things organic:
a) Whether it's body wash or peanut butter, you will have to shake, stir or blend before use.
b) All natural means no fragrances. Don't expect it all to smell great.
c) The texture will be different. Probably more soup-like. ...A very thin soup.
* Lemonade-cranberry: not such a great mixture. (And just because something's in a pretty bottle doesn't make it taste good.)
* Unpack every last box the day you move in. Otherwise, it'll never get done. Trust me.
* Arizona brand green tea: made in Canada.
Sunday, August 26, 2007
8/25/07
* LASIK for dogs is less than half the price of LASIK for humans.
...perhaps I should have started with, "Dogs can get LASIK."
* I drove home with the heat on tonight. Must. Unpack. Sweaters.
* Beating deadline is a good feeling. Sometimes not so much because you're done on time but because you're afraid of what will happen if you're not...
* I don't care if it's promising to walk the dog or choosing godparents -- people, do what you say you're going to do. There's nothing more obnoxious and hurtful than not following through. Just saying.
* After thinking about getting a cat, I've decided that very few things are more terrifying than the prospect of caring for another living creature. Heaven help my nonexistent children.
...perhaps I should have started with, "Dogs can get LASIK."
* I drove home with the heat on tonight. Must. Unpack. Sweaters.
* Beating deadline is a good feeling. Sometimes not so much because you're done on time but because you're afraid of what will happen if you're not...
* I don't care if it's promising to walk the dog or choosing godparents -- people, do what you say you're going to do. There's nothing more obnoxious and hurtful than not following through. Just saying.
* After thinking about getting a cat, I've decided that very few things are more terrifying than the prospect of caring for another living creature. Heaven help my nonexistent children.
Saturday, August 25, 2007
8/24/07
* Happy birthday, MRS. Edge!
Everybody's switching names. It's madness.
* Ebert is holding out for a new contract -- and he's taking the thumbs with him.
* If you ever start to get down about your name, just think of Misha Dzhindzhikhashvili from AP.
* I would love to hear how withholding information about the safety of your place of residence falls under "protecting and serving."
* Know where you're going before you leave for a half-hour break.
* I love what I do.
Everybody's switching names. It's madness.
* Ebert is holding out for a new contract -- and he's taking the thumbs with him.
* If you ever start to get down about your name, just think of Misha Dzhindzhikhashvili from AP.
* I would love to hear how withholding information about the safety of your place of residence falls under "protecting and serving."
* Know where you're going before you leave for a half-hour break.
* I love what I do.
Friday, August 24, 2007
8/23/07
* I'd imagine husbands are good for helping fish rocks and things out of the garbage disposal. It's hard to coordinate a flashlight and two spoons by yourself. Then again, I bet a pair of tongs would do the trick...
* Homework never really goes away. You just stop getting grades for it.
* There always will be a lack of time to do all the things you need/want to do.
* You'll probably look less stupid asking than really screwing something up.
* Hearing from someone for no apparent reason makes me feel really good. I think most would agree.
* Homework never really goes away. You just stop getting grades for it.
* There always will be a lack of time to do all the things you need/want to do.
* You'll probably look less stupid asking than really screwing something up.
* Hearing from someone for no apparent reason makes me feel really good. I think most would agree.
Thursday, August 23, 2007
8/22/07
* Money is confusing. 401k is confusing. Insurance is confusing. Taxes are confusing. I signed my name so many times today that it started to look misspelled. (Is it too late for that fourth year of college...)
* People have look-alikes everywhere. It starts to get creepy after awhile.
* I have a theory that warm climates permanently throw off your internal thermostat. I never thought a 75-degree Chicagoland apartment could feel like the dead of winter. Yikes.
* Don't judge a book by its cover ...or, in this case, a health-foods store by it's house-like exterior.
* People have look-alikes everywhere. It starts to get creepy after awhile.
* I have a theory that warm climates permanently throw off your internal thermostat. I never thought a 75-degree Chicagoland apartment could feel like the dead of winter. Yikes.
* Don't judge a book by its cover ...or, in this case, a health-foods store by it's house-like exterior.
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
8/21/07
* Crystal Lake has two Metra stations on the yellow line ...in case you were wondering.
* Even 80 in Illinois feels cold after enduring one of Phoenix's hottest summers.
* Picture frames seem to be overpriced for no apparent reason. And they probably don't come in the size you need.
* You need to know (at least) a few basics about cars, electronics and investments. Interesting how they didn't really teach those things in school. But, hey! At least you remember how to use the logarithm function on your $100 calculator ...right?
* Be thankful for your family. All of them.
* Even 80 in Illinois feels cold after enduring one of Phoenix's hottest summers.
* Picture frames seem to be overpriced for no apparent reason. And they probably don't come in the size you need.
* You need to know (at least) a few basics about cars, electronics and investments. Interesting how they didn't really teach those things in school. But, hey! At least you remember how to use the logarithm function on your $100 calculator ...right?
* Be thankful for your family. All of them.
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
8/20/07
* Sometimes what you think you want isn't, and what you'd never thought you'd want is.
* True friends are the ones who will help you move. It might be the most undesirable task imaginable.
* Mental extremes are overrated. You'll probably miss the place you said you never would, and just when you think things never change, they probably will.
* There's a tech support woman in Asia who thinks I've never heard of the Philippines. Oops...
* True friends are the ones who will help you move. It might be the most undesirable task imaginable.
* Mental extremes are overrated. You'll probably miss the place you said you never would, and just when you think things never change, they probably will.
* There's a tech support woman in Asia who thinks I've never heard of the Philippines. Oops...
Saturday, August 18, 2007
8/17/07
* What you want is rarely available when you want it. That's why things falling into place seems so great.
* A little cynicism can keep you from getting hurt quite as badly. Think of it as a shock absorber. Works on the car, right? (I probably abuse this theory.)
* Moving trucks hold more than you think.
* Remember not to pack your tennis shoes -- or any shoes with toes, for that matter -- if you'll be moving. Heavy boxes and flip-flops are no good together.
* Chances are you own too much stuff. WAY too much stuff.
* A little cynicism can keep you from getting hurt quite as badly. Think of it as a shock absorber. Works on the car, right? (I probably abuse this theory.)
* Moving trucks hold more than you think.
* Remember not to pack your tennis shoes -- or any shoes with toes, for that matter -- if you'll be moving. Heavy boxes and flip-flops are no good together.
* Chances are you own too much stuff. WAY too much stuff.
Friday, August 17, 2007
8/16/07
* Sometimes company is better than labor when it comes to help.
* It's never too late. (You may have to get past your pride, but it's never too late.)
* Family doesn't actually get better as you get older. You just start to appreciate the way they've always been.
* It's never too late. (You may have to get past your pride, but it's never too late.)
* Family doesn't actually get better as you get older. You just start to appreciate the way they've always been.
Thursday, August 16, 2007
8/15/07
(Wow, this week has been busy! Two more days of packing, then two days of moving, then things should start to get a bit more stable. And I'm back on central time for those keeping track.)
* Thank you for the kind words of encouragement. I really appreciate it.
* Always take the opportunity to see old friends or meet new people. You'd be shocked at what you miss when you don't.
* Think very carefully about driving through the night after a full day's work. The idea won't seem so great in 12 hours when you realize you have 12 more to go before you can sleep in a bed.
* Lock your doors at rest stops. Yikes.
* It's hard to realize that some people just aren't going to put forth any effort. It might be harder to admit that trying to be personable becomes a waste of time in those situations.
* Green is the easiest color for the eye to receive. Yellow is the hardest.
* Renter's insurance is surprisingly inexpensive.
* People will always change, but, in some ways, they'll always stay the same. That's not always a bad thing.
* Thank you for the kind words of encouragement. I really appreciate it.
* Always take the opportunity to see old friends or meet new people. You'd be shocked at what you miss when you don't.
* Think very carefully about driving through the night after a full day's work. The idea won't seem so great in 12 hours when you realize you have 12 more to go before you can sleep in a bed.
* Lock your doors at rest stops. Yikes.
* It's hard to realize that some people just aren't going to put forth any effort. It might be harder to admit that trying to be personable becomes a waste of time in those situations.
* Green is the easiest color for the eye to receive. Yellow is the hardest.
* Renter's insurance is surprisingly inexpensive.
* People will always change, but, in some ways, they'll always stay the same. That's not always a bad thing.
Saturday, August 11, 2007
8/10/07
* I'm not sure I'm prepared to start over again.
* I'm not sure I know where I'm going.
* I'm ...not sure.
* I'm not sure I know where I'm going.
* I'm ...not sure.
Friday, August 10, 2007
8/9/07
(As you can see, moving mode is kicking in, and I find myself busier and more stressed than normal. My apologies for sporadic posting the next couple of weeks.)
* Wrap dresses may flatter every body type, but they are hard to wear.
* Check out the site for the upcoming movie The Kingdom. That photo on the opening page? That's east Mesa. Some of the film was shot along part of Loop 202 (or THE Loop 202 if you're a true Valley resident). I knew those curvy highway signs looked familiar...
* A clothing store in Scottsdale has started using the Butt Cam so shoppers can see their hienies without the twist-and-turniness. I'm not kidding.
* Bridges are funny things. (And not just the ones in Minnesota and Mesa.) Sometimes that "don't burn your bridges" thing in life is harder than you think. Sometimes lack of upkeep dooms the budding project, sometimes it's inability to care for it properly and sometimes you just do something stupid and the whole thing comes crashing down before you know it. So watch out for cracks early on before things get out of hand.
* In keeping with the sappy anecdotes, whether good, bad or otherwise, change is the only constant ...but it still kills me every time.
* Perhaps most exciting, the Perseids meteor shower is expected this weekend! Late Sunday night/early Monday morning are your best bets to see the shooting debris, and you should get as far away from the city lights as possible for the best view. (This also would make an excellent date, but you didn't hear it from me...)
* Wrap dresses may flatter every body type, but they are hard to wear.
* Check out the site for the upcoming movie The Kingdom. That photo on the opening page? That's east Mesa. Some of the film was shot along part of Loop 202 (or THE Loop 202 if you're a true Valley resident). I knew those curvy highway signs looked familiar...
* A clothing store in Scottsdale has started using the Butt Cam so shoppers can see their hienies without the twist-and-turniness. I'm not kidding.
* Bridges are funny things. (And not just the ones in Minnesota and Mesa.) Sometimes that "don't burn your bridges" thing in life is harder than you think. Sometimes lack of upkeep dooms the budding project, sometimes it's inability to care for it properly and sometimes you just do something stupid and the whole thing comes crashing down before you know it. So watch out for cracks early on before things get out of hand.
* In keeping with the sappy anecdotes, whether good, bad or otherwise, change is the only constant ...but it still kills me every time.
* Perhaps most exciting, the Perseids meteor shower is expected this weekend! Late Sunday night/early Monday morning are your best bets to see the shooting debris, and you should get as far away from the city lights as possible for the best view. (This also would make an excellent date, but you didn't hear it from me...)
Wednesday, August 8, 2007
8/7/07
* Because I'm a journalist, I must be a writer, right? Grr.
* "There is strength in yielding. It appears that a stream yields to the path of rocks and the short, but over time, it is the water that shapes the rocks." Think about that next time you have to work a bad shift or get your boss coffee.
* People are inherently lost. Think about it. We're wandering around without a single solid, concrete answer to ...well, anything really.
Have you ever thought about how much a surgeon knows? About the intricate operations and details (s)he deals with on a daily basis? Imagine yourself trying to amputate a leg without ruining the remaining nerves. Try for a second to realize how dumbfounded you would be trying to figure out where to start (unless you're a surgeon reading this ...then just step back and think about how much you actually know).
Now consider this: Even with all these incredible advances in science and technology -- in the grand scheme of things, we really know nothing.
Most people who take the time to think about it walk around wondering: Is there a higher power? Is it the God they talk about in Sunday school? Does God or this higher power or whatever you want to label it control us like puppets? How is that possible if we have free will? Is this even a concept I can comprehend? How will I ever wrap my head around this well enough to even form an opinion? It's not so much an issue of religion as about the realization of how tiny each of us really is.
But what amazes me are two things: a) That in spite of all these deep, mixed-up questions about why we're here and who has a say in what ultimately happens in life, we go on about our daily business. That's a pretty brave thing, don't you think? and b) Whether we believe in God or worship the trees or think everything that's worth anything comes from within ourselves, we still can appreciate and see meaning the little "coincidences" in life.
...just something to think about.
* "There is strength in yielding. It appears that a stream yields to the path of rocks and the short, but over time, it is the water that shapes the rocks." Think about that next time you have to work a bad shift or get your boss coffee.
* People are inherently lost. Think about it. We're wandering around without a single solid, concrete answer to ...well, anything really.
Have you ever thought about how much a surgeon knows? About the intricate operations and details (s)he deals with on a daily basis? Imagine yourself trying to amputate a leg without ruining the remaining nerves. Try for a second to realize how dumbfounded you would be trying to figure out where to start (unless you're a surgeon reading this ...then just step back and think about how much you actually know).
Now consider this: Even with all these incredible advances in science and technology -- in the grand scheme of things, we really know nothing.
Most people who take the time to think about it walk around wondering: Is there a higher power? Is it the God they talk about in Sunday school? Does God or this higher power or whatever you want to label it control us like puppets? How is that possible if we have free will? Is this even a concept I can comprehend? How will I ever wrap my head around this well enough to even form an opinion? It's not so much an issue of religion as about the realization of how tiny each of us really is.
But what amazes me are two things: a) That in spite of all these deep, mixed-up questions about why we're here and who has a say in what ultimately happens in life, we go on about our daily business. That's a pretty brave thing, don't you think? and b) Whether we believe in God or worship the trees or think everything that's worth anything comes from within ourselves, we still can appreciate and see meaning the little "coincidences" in life.
...just something to think about.
Tuesday, August 7, 2007
8/6/07
* So scientists (some from the Flagstaff lab where they discovered Pluto) found a new planet. It's really big, really hot and really far away.
* They also found strange, new bacteria in the melting glaciers in Antarctica, which probably means it's inhabitable after all.
* I apparently can't keep "me" and "I" straight.
* I want a cat.
* Even the Ethiopians only get to see the real Lucy twice a year. She's coming to the U.S. for a six-year tour. (Scientists think she should chill at home for her own health.) She's named after the Beatles song that was playing when they found her.
* They also found strange, new bacteria in the melting glaciers in Antarctica, which probably means it's inhabitable after all.
* I apparently can't keep "me" and "I" straight.
* I want a cat.
* Even the Ethiopians only get to see the real Lucy twice a year. She's coming to the U.S. for a six-year tour. (Scientists think she should chill at home for her own health.) She's named after the Beatles song that was playing when they found her.
Monday, August 6, 2007
8/5/07
* Dear Anonymous (aka Justin),
...yep! Still there.
* Even newspapers have slow days. Really slow days.
* Certain members of my immediate family probably would call me a "liberal, left-wing, tree-hugging hippie," but I think there's something to be said for going green.
* I've discovered the secret to attracting members of the opposite sex: Live far away ...from them.
* If you've been living under a rock, social-networking site Facebook.com has come up with all these "applications" to further consume your valuable time. Among these is a "Compare People" feature that basically allows you to play the senior superlatives game all over again. I laughed really hard when I saw that my current position is No. 1 among my friends in the "Best to be stuck in handcuffs with" category ...I'm not sure what that means.
(A shiny nickel to anyone who can guess/remember what my actual senior superlative was. Haha)
* It is, in fact, not true that "you don't know what you've got 'til it's gone." It's about a week before it's gone that it really starts to sink in.
...yep! Still there.
* Even newspapers have slow days. Really slow days.
* Certain members of my immediate family probably would call me a "liberal, left-wing, tree-hugging hippie," but I think there's something to be said for going green.
* I've discovered the secret to attracting members of the opposite sex: Live far away ...from them.
* If you've been living under a rock, social-networking site Facebook.com has come up with all these "applications" to further consume your valuable time. Among these is a "Compare People" feature that basically allows you to play the senior superlatives game all over again. I laughed really hard when I saw that my current position is No. 1 among my friends in the "Best to be stuck in handcuffs with" category ...I'm not sure what that means.
(A shiny nickel to anyone who can guess/remember what my actual senior superlative was. Haha)
* It is, in fact, not true that "you don't know what you've got 'til it's gone." It's about a week before it's gone that it really starts to sink in.
Sunday, August 5, 2007
8/4/07
* Amanda and Tanner are lovely together. Congrats, newlyweds!
* You never know when someone from high school will pop up thousands of miles away. Plan accordingly.
* I don't know if I can ever get married because I do know I'll lose it during the father-daughter dance.
* The less-than-two-hour drive from Phoenix to Tucson is much less bearable than the nearly-six-hour drive from Phoenix to San Diego.
* There's so much more to life than what you think you know.
* You never know when someone from high school will pop up thousands of miles away. Plan accordingly.
* I don't know if I can ever get married because I do know I'll lose it during the father-daughter dance.
* The less-than-two-hour drive from Phoenix to Tucson is much less bearable than the nearly-six-hour drive from Phoenix to San Diego.
* There's so much more to life than what you think you know.
Saturday, August 4, 2007
8/3/07
* A forensic artist says she's identified the sailor in Alfred Eisenstaedt's famous Aug. 14, 1945, image taken in Times Square at the end of World War II. The photo (above) is the most reproduced image in the history of LIFE magazine. (The 80-year-old Houston man, who was 18 at the time, says he was changing trains to visit his girlfriend in Brooklyn when he heard the news and randomly grabbed and kissed this woman. He said his hand is twisted as such because he saw someone taking the photo and wanted the nurse's face to show. He says they never spoke.)
* I drove home next to a car with "SCRUBZ" on the license plate. (I like to think Zach Braff and I had a moment.)
* "Blomo" is a below the flag promotional -- usually just a little snippet story. (Good to know after nine weeks, huh?)
* If you're reading this, I assume you don't yet have kids. But if/when you do, think back and remember it could be worse.
Friday, August 3, 2007
8/2/07
* Motivation and upcoming change work against each other, which seems strange...
* If you're ever using CCI, for heaven's sake, put the check marks AFTER the punctuation.
* Amazon.com sells a lot more than just books.
* If you're ever using CCI, for heaven's sake, put the check marks AFTER the punctuation.
* Amazon.com sells a lot more than just books.
Thursday, August 2, 2007
8/1/07
* When someone says "cash," they mean paper money. Not checks. Not debit. Cash.
* In the "not good for you car" category: leaving it running while getting gas and turning it off while in gear.
* Fax machines are the spawn of Satan.
* Dave Matthews is giving exclusive rights to his new album to Starbucks. Perhaps this is best summed up with... "ugh."
* I wonder if Drew Carey will keep the teeny mic when he takes over "The Price is Right."
* I will not be jaded. I will not be jaded. I will not...
* In the "not good for you car" category: leaving it running while getting gas and turning it off while in gear.
* Fax machines are the spawn of Satan.
* Dave Matthews is giving exclusive rights to his new album to Starbucks. Perhaps this is best summed up with... "ugh."
* I wonder if Drew Carey will keep the teeny mic when he takes over "The Price is Right."
* I will not be jaded. I will not be jaded. I will not...
Wednesday, August 1, 2007
7/31/07
* To reiterate: Sunburns aren't worth it. Sunscreen. Sunscreen. Sunscreen.
* If you haven't seen the dancing inmates yet, go watch. (Apparently I'm a little behind in the world of Web junk, but as a former pom squad member/drill-down champ, I can tell you those lines are impressive! Haha)
* It's probably a good idea to Google yourself so you have an idea what others will see when they do -- because sometime, somewhere someone will. (Lucky you if you have a fairly generic name.)
* Nothing is ever quite what it seems.
* Earlier, it looked like Murdoch's deal for Dow Jones was falling through, but maybe a couple of the Bancrofts changed their minds after all...
* Sometimes timing really is everything. Don't screw up.
* If you haven't seen the dancing inmates yet, go watch. (Apparently I'm a little behind in the world of Web junk, but as a former pom squad member/drill-down champ, I can tell you those lines are impressive! Haha)
* It's probably a good idea to Google yourself so you have an idea what others will see when they do -- because sometime, somewhere someone will. (Lucky you if you have a fairly generic name.)
* Nothing is ever quite what it seems.
* Earlier, it looked like Murdoch's deal for Dow Jones was falling through, but maybe a couple of the Bancrofts changed their minds after all...
* Sometimes timing really is everything. Don't screw up.
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Monday, July 30, 2007
7/29/07
* San Diego is a beautiful city.
* Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen.
* The problem with zoos is that most of the time, the scenery looks so good that the animals get comfy and find ways to hide from the visitors.
* If you've never been to Dick's Last Resort, go. Be prepared to fight back.
* Check other events happening in the area of your planned vacations ...Comicon (huge comic-book conference) just ended and the "American Idol" auditions for San Diego start tomorrow. There's an apparent contestant in the room next door. (Who knew?)
* If it seems quirky in the brochure/on the Web site, it probably is.
* Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen.
* The problem with zoos is that most of the time, the scenery looks so good that the animals get comfy and find ways to hide from the visitors.
* If you've never been to Dick's Last Resort, go. Be prepared to fight back.
* Check other events happening in the area of your planned vacations ...Comicon (huge comic-book conference) just ended and the "American Idol" auditions for San Diego start tomorrow. There's an apparent contestant in the room next door. (Who knew?)
* If it seems quirky in the brochure/on the Web site, it probably is.
Sunday, July 29, 2007
7/28/07
* Watching things come together is a fantastic feeling. Knowing you have a place to sleep is another one.
* Does anyone understand significant digits? (Did anyone ever?)
* "Some Like It Hot" was filmed at the Hotel del Coronado in San Diego (well, technically in Coronado).
* Always keep names, numbers and other info you might need for references, resumes or applications. It's a pain to look them all up again.
* I'm so excited for California, I can't think of anything else. Pacific Ocean, here we come!
* Does anyone understand significant digits? (Did anyone ever?)
* "Some Like It Hot" was filmed at the Hotel del Coronado in San Diego (well, technically in Coronado).
* Always keep names, numbers and other info you might need for references, resumes or applications. It's a pain to look them all up again.
* I'm so excited for California, I can't think of anything else. Pacific Ocean, here we come!
Saturday, July 28, 2007
7/27/07
* When it rains in Phoenix, it pours -- figuratively. Today was a rough one on many levels.
Two news helicopters crashed over a park, killing four journalists from two news channels.
Then a 23-year-old police officer was shot and killed. Last I heard, police still were searching for the suspect, and a Rush concert at one of the huge stadiums downtown was about to let out (read: tons of people, traffic, congestion) just as they were starting to look.
On a personal note, days like these make journalism real. These situations are heart-breaking, but they give newsrooms -- especially those at the center of it all -- a chance to really come together and emphasize a team effort. It's encouraging to see people persevere through tragedy and really work to find the best and most appropriate way to serve the public.
It makes journalism exciting -- but it also forces you to have a thicker skin than most. To do well in these situations, you have to shrug it off to an extent. But some are left so jaded that such things don't phase them at all.
I guess I can only hope I never reach that point.
Two news helicopters crashed over a park, killing four journalists from two news channels.
Then a 23-year-old police officer was shot and killed. Last I heard, police still were searching for the suspect, and a Rush concert at one of the huge stadiums downtown was about to let out (read: tons of people, traffic, congestion) just as they were starting to look.
On a personal note, days like these make journalism real. These situations are heart-breaking, but they give newsrooms -- especially those at the center of it all -- a chance to really come together and emphasize a team effort. It's encouraging to see people persevere through tragedy and really work to find the best and most appropriate way to serve the public.
It makes journalism exciting -- but it also forces you to have a thicker skin than most. To do well in these situations, you have to shrug it off to an extent. But some are left so jaded that such things don't phase them at all.
I guess I can only hope I never reach that point.
Friday, July 27, 2007
7/26/07
Happy birthday, Mommy!
* I officially have a copy editing/design job in Crystal Lake. (Yay!)
* "Pixelated" (not to be confused with "pixilated") is not yet in Webster's standard dictionary. (Millennium edition, yes. Regular edition, no.)
* When it rains in Phoenix, it pours. Literally. Storms predicted for the rest of the week.
* The U.S. has made an agreement with the European Union to broaden the scope of traveler info it can get from airline passengers, including such data as philosophies, religion, sexual preference and trade-union affiliations. I can't find the link right now, so I'll return to this later.
* 1936's "Tell Your Children" (aka "Reefer Madness") was way over the top. Or was it? (Mwahaha...)
* Be kind to your cat. This one can predict death.
* It's "aka." No spaces. No periods. No caps.
* I officially have a copy editing/design job in Crystal Lake. (Yay!)
* "Pixelated" (not to be confused with "pixilated") is not yet in Webster's standard dictionary. (Millennium edition, yes. Regular edition, no.)
* When it rains in Phoenix, it pours. Literally. Storms predicted for the rest of the week.
* The U.S. has made an agreement with the European Union to broaden the scope of traveler info it can get from airline passengers, including such data as philosophies, religion, sexual preference and trade-union affiliations. I can't find the link right now, so I'll return to this later.
* 1936's "Tell Your Children" (aka "Reefer Madness") was way over the top. Or was it? (Mwahaha...)
* Be kind to your cat. This one can predict death.
* It's "aka." No spaces. No periods. No caps.
Thursday, July 26, 2007
HEY, CHICAGOLAND!
I know somebody out there in Chicagoland wants a good ROOMMATE.
Come on, you know you do!
(By Chicagoland, I mean northwestish suburbs, but I'm flexible!)
PLEASE LET ME KNOW!
Come on, you know you do!
(By Chicagoland, I mean northwestish suburbs, but I'm flexible!)
PLEASE LET ME KNOW!
7/25/07
* Thank goodness for nice people who will help out a lost little girl at the gas station.
* Post Office workers are not supposed to tape packages for you. (It's a rule.)
* Live transparently. You'd be shocked (unless you happen to be an investigative journalist or extremely informed citizen) what you can find out about people though public records online. (And that's before you even step foot inside the offices!)
* Funny how -- the same way things never turn out the the way you think they will -- you never feel the way you think you should at the time you think is appropriate.
* Post Office workers are not supposed to tape packages for you. (It's a rule.)
* Live transparently. You'd be shocked (unless you happen to be an investigative journalist or extremely informed citizen) what you can find out about people though public records online. (And that's before you even step foot inside the offices!)
* Funny how -- the same way things never turn out the the way you think they will -- you never feel the way you think you should at the time you think is appropriate.
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
7/24/07
* "Change is inevitable whether we're seeking it out or watching it pass by."
* Asking someone for advice -- or just about a topic they care about/are good at -- is one of the best compliments.
* Compliment = nice thing to say to someone. (Complimentary = free.) Complement = goes well with
* "Free of charge" is redundant.
* Just saying hi, making a quick call or inviting someone along goes further than you think. (Haven't I mentioned this before?)
* Again, don't be alarmed. Game traffic takes f o r e v e r.
* Have you checked out the new look on the Chicago Tribune site?
* Think about what you want to do or where you want to be in five years. Really think about it.
Now think about where you are now. Who do you hang out with? How do you spend your time? What is at the top of your priority list? How do you think/hope those things will change five years from now?
Now think about where you were five years ago.
Weird, huh?
* Asking someone for advice -- or just about a topic they care about/are good at -- is one of the best compliments.
* Compliment = nice thing to say to someone. (Complimentary = free.) Complement = goes well with
* "Free of charge" is redundant.
* Just saying hi, making a quick call or inviting someone along goes further than you think. (Haven't I mentioned this before?)
* Again, don't be alarmed. Game traffic takes f o r e v e r.
* Have you checked out the new look on the Chicago Tribune site?
* Think about what you want to do or where you want to be in five years. Really think about it.
Now think about where you are now. Who do you hang out with? How do you spend your time? What is at the top of your priority list? How do you think/hope those things will change five years from now?
Now think about where you were five years ago.
Weird, huh?
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
7/23/07
* Men are required by federal law to remove their hats during the national anthem.
* This little guy is the youngest person to swim around Alcatraz Island.
* Every Braxton I've heard of/know now is a prodigy.
* Does the Edwards/Clinton femininity debate remind you of anything?
* One can hear the TV through the phones at work. (Yikes!)
* Monsoon refers to a change in winds, not a storm itself as many seem to think.
* Just saying hi goes a lot further than you think.
* Further = depth. Farther = distance.
* The NBA and NFL seem to be having some difficulties lately.
(Is this a normal thing, or am I just stumbling across more sports stuff?)
* It's amazing how you can feel completely competent one minute ...and the next, you don't know how to use the phone.
* This little guy is the youngest person to swim around Alcatraz Island.
* Every Braxton I've heard of/know now is a prodigy.
* Does the Edwards/Clinton femininity debate remind you of anything?
* One can hear the TV through the phones at work. (Yikes!)
* Monsoon refers to a change in winds, not a storm itself as many seem to think.
* Just saying hi goes a lot further than you think.
* Further = depth. Farther = distance.
* The NBA and NFL seem to be having some difficulties lately.
(Is this a normal thing, or am I just stumbling across more sports stuff?)
* It's amazing how you can feel completely competent one minute ...and the next, you don't know how to use the phone.
Monday, July 23, 2007
7/22/07
* EIU had a "bomb scare" the other day, and it ended up in The Republic. It's amazing how excited you get when you're far away and you hear/see mention of wherever "home" is. (The messy-looking package ended up being an application. I want to know if that kid got in...)
* The London Bridge is about four hours west of here.
* I've now seen grown men about three seconds away from plugging their ears and saying,"La la la la la" when discussion of the last Harry Potter book comes up. It's really quite amusing.
* The image described above makes me wonder if I'm missing something really good.
* Security guards probably have the best stories.
* Waiting for the phone to ring is a sickness that hits right around junior high and (I have a hunch) never goes away.
* The London Bridge is about four hours west of here.
* I've now seen grown men about three seconds away from plugging their ears and saying,"La la la la la" when discussion of the last Harry Potter book comes up. It's really quite amusing.
* The image described above makes me wonder if I'm missing something really good.
* Security guards probably have the best stories.
* Waiting for the phone to ring is a sickness that hits right around junior high and (I have a hunch) never goes away.
Sunday, July 22, 2007
7/21/07
* India has named a 72-year-old woman its first female president.
* Tammy Faye died. She was 65 (and 4'11"). The first time she wore eye make-up, she took it off immediately thinking it was of the devil.
* More than 400 people have filed suits against the company that makes homeopathic cold reliever Zicam (based in Phoenix), saying the product has damaged their sense of smell and/or taste.
* Studies show that teen "girl talk" (chatter over boys, fitting in, appearance issues, etc.) is linked to depression in girls but not boys.
(So... You're telling me that girls get more wrapped up in emotional stuff than boys do at that age? Shocking.)
* Microchip implants (similar to the ones developed for pets) can be used to tighten security, keep track of Alzheimer's patients and for identification purposes. The technology is not advanced enough for someone (or the government) to track you all the time, but with all that important info stored in your arm, hackers could potentially steal your ID right out of there. The chips last for about 10 years. Your thoughts?
* Tammy Faye died. She was 65 (and 4'11"). The first time she wore eye make-up, she took it off immediately thinking it was of the devil.
* More than 400 people have filed suits against the company that makes homeopathic cold reliever Zicam (based in Phoenix), saying the product has damaged their sense of smell and/or taste.
* Studies show that teen "girl talk" (chatter over boys, fitting in, appearance issues, etc.) is linked to depression in girls but not boys.
(So... You're telling me that girls get more wrapped up in emotional stuff than boys do at that age? Shocking.)
* Microchip implants (similar to the ones developed for pets) can be used to tighten security, keep track of Alzheimer's patients and for identification purposes. The technology is not advanced enough for someone (or the government) to track you all the time, but with all that important info stored in your arm, hackers could potentially steal your ID right out of there. The chips last for about 10 years. Your thoughts?
Saturday, July 21, 2007
7/20/07
* I read all the Harry Potter spoilers I could find, and it all still means nothing.
* Women weren't allowed to wear pants on the Senate floor until the '90s. (Yeah, that's the 1990s.)
* Cheetah, the chimp in all the Tarzan movies, lives in Arizona. He's the oldest chimp in the world at 75 (human) years. He also was rumored to be in love with the man who played Tarzan and expressed jealousy by attacking the woman who played Jane. No joke.
* The Munchkins from "The Wizard of Oz" are getting their own star on the Walk of Fame, possibly with yellow brick underneath.
(I only have 5 inches on the little guy quoted in the wire story, but a very kind co-worker eased my mind by saying I don't appear that short. Let's hear it for optical illusions, huh?) But the most pressing matter here: What about the monkeys?
* Women weren't allowed to wear pants on the Senate floor until the '90s. (Yeah, that's the 1990s.)
* Cheetah, the chimp in all the Tarzan movies, lives in Arizona. He's the oldest chimp in the world at 75 (human) years. He also was rumored to be in love with the man who played Tarzan and expressed jealousy by attacking the woman who played Jane. No joke.
* The Munchkins from "The Wizard of Oz" are getting their own star on the Walk of Fame, possibly with yellow brick underneath.
(I only have 5 inches on the little guy quoted in the wire story, but a very kind co-worker eased my mind by saying I don't appear that short. Let's hear it for optical illusions, huh?) But the most pressing matter here: What about the monkeys?
Thursday, July 19, 2007
7/19/07
* Nothing like staying up all night working to make you feel like you've actually done something ...and make you dead tired in the (later) morning.
* "A watched pot never boils." Don't you hate that it's true? (And did anyone else wonder what a "watch pot" was as a kid?)
* If you don't take big risks, you're less likely to be disappointed ...but what fun is that? Sometimes the unexpected happens.
* Salmon can jump something like 6 feet in the air.
* It took hundreds of computers running for 20 years, trying out 500 billion-billion (that's right, billion-billion) different possibilities, but scientists have finally done it. They've solved checkers.
* And perhaps the most important lesson for today:
"I will not mock the monsoon. I will not mock the monsoon. I will not..."
* "A watched pot never boils." Don't you hate that it's true? (And did anyone else wonder what a "watch pot" was as a kid?)
* If you don't take big risks, you're less likely to be disappointed ...but what fun is that? Sometimes the unexpected happens.
* Salmon can jump something like 6 feet in the air.
* It took hundreds of computers running for 20 years, trying out 500 billion-billion (that's right, billion-billion) different possibilities, but scientists have finally done it. They've solved checkers.
* And perhaps the most important lesson for today:
"I will not mock the monsoon. I will not mock the monsoon. I will not..."
7/18/07
* It's tough to choose between what's easier and more secure and what's tougher and more of a risk. And I know I don't have the answer.
* "Fickle" isn't a trait one can part with easily.
* "Fickle" isn't a trait one can part with easily.
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
7/17/07
* "Breathe with your heels." The Chinese use this old saying to reflect the belief that your feet and where they take you matter. Rather than just treating them as means by which to arrive at Point B from Point A, they do meaningful work.
* "Security is a kind of death," (that's Tennessee Williams) but uncertainty is no picnic either.
* "Security is a kind of death," (that's Tennessee Williams) but uncertainty is no picnic either.
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
7/16/07
* The strangest thing happened on the drive home from work! These small, round dots fell on my windshield. They would splatter and run up the glass like little beads as if they were -- dare I say -- wet or something. I even used the wipers ...once. Cars were stopped alongside the road. (I like to think they were so overwhelmed by the "deluge" that they had to pull off the highway.)
* Rain also smells different in Arizona. But after more than six weeks without a sprinkle, I suppose it's possible for an Illinois girl to forget.
* Matchbox cars first were created to give the developer's daughter an alternative to taking spiders to school in matchbooks. He gave her a tiny steamroller.
* Jim Dale, the man who reads the Harry Potter books on tape has finished recording the last book, after signing a contract to keep his mouth shut about the ending. He also holds a world record for most voices for said recordings ...something like 200.
* Rain also smells different in Arizona. But after more than six weeks without a sprinkle, I suppose it's possible for an Illinois girl to forget.
* Matchbox cars first were created to give the developer's daughter an alternative to taking spiders to school in matchbooks. He gave her a tiny steamroller.
* Jim Dale, the man who reads the Harry Potter books on tape has finished recording the last book, after signing a contract to keep his mouth shut about the ending. He also holds a world record for most voices for said recordings ...something like 200.
Monday, July 16, 2007
7/15/07
* Take a cue from Audrie (top left), Chelsea and I: Make sure to get your money's worth from the Seventh-Inning Stretch (above). Scott (top center) isn't quite there yet.
* The suspense is killing me.
* Blago "accidentally" gave a make-up artist $600 of state funds to make up look pretty for the State of the State address. Home, sweet home, huh?
* Chase Field has a pool in the stands ...and a retractable roof.
* This guy blows my mind.
* I read an interesting story today about a couple (who's getting married...blah, blah, blah). They met while serving jury duty for a murder trial.
* The Phillies are the only MLB team to lose 10,000 games.
Sunday, July 15, 2007
7/14/07
* Working out at 8 a.m. (which means getting up at 7 a.m. to get through traffic) is surprisingly refreshing ...but I'm still going back to bed.
* If you do not live at a house or are not visiting someone who lives at a house, it is rude to take up the only parkable space in front of said house. Apparently this is one of those concepts that exists only in my head.
* The Cosmo dog park in the Valley was ranked the nation's best.
* Event traffic is worse than rush hour.
* If you do not live at a house or are not visiting someone who lives at a house, it is rude to take up the only parkable space in front of said house. Apparently this is one of those concepts that exists only in my head.
* The Cosmo dog park in the Valley was ranked the nation's best.
* Event traffic is worse than rush hour.
Saturday, July 14, 2007
7/13/07
* PostSecret updates (sample above) are things to look forward to every Sunday. During the week, there often are e-mail responses added in, too.
* That first little imperfection on whatever new thing you have will break your heart. Every time.
* Along the same lines, everyone will disappoint you sometime, and you'll disappoint them. It's not a matter of if but when. Don't dwell on it, just know that it's coming.
* Is it better to visit every state or know someone in every state?
* Even the most professional of people have a bit of a wild streak ...at least.
Friday, July 13, 2007
7/12/07
* Leaving your immediate future up to a machine is a strange and unnerving feeling. Kind of like I faxed my life away this morning...
* Speaking of this morning, what song do you suppose was playing over the loudspeaker at Staples as I was taking a timed copy-editing test? "Under Pressure."
* When you have a deadline -- and I don't mean a newspaper deadline -- someone will jump in front of you in line. Or your car will stall. Or your nose will start bleeding. Or you'll lose that phone number you need. Or your computer will freeze up. Or something. Plan accordingly.
* Found out today that I get to be part of something I can't help but think of as a "final project." (Guess that school mentality isn't gone quite yet.) I'm super excited. And as of tomorrow, I will officially have design clips from The Arizona Republic. (Yay!)
* It's not a good idea to use hot keys to release pages. And if you're ever using CCI, stay away from F5 at all costs. Trust me.
* An 11 update (for those of you keeping track of the crazy number stuff): My address as a child was Rt. 4, Box 340 (4+3+4=11); my current house number is 1514 (1+5+1+4=11); the test I took today was 11 pages long; the Diamondbacks ticket I grabbed randomly off the top of the pile on a table at work is, you guessed it, none other than Row 11, Seat 11.
* Vise is that tool in the garage (as in "vise grip"). Vice is that guilty pleasure or bad habit you just can't kick.
* Never think you can't be amazed by the way things come around. It'll never cease to surprise you.
* Speaking of this morning, what song do you suppose was playing over the loudspeaker at Staples as I was taking a timed copy-editing test? "Under Pressure."
* When you have a deadline -- and I don't mean a newspaper deadline -- someone will jump in front of you in line. Or your car will stall. Or your nose will start bleeding. Or you'll lose that phone number you need. Or your computer will freeze up. Or something. Plan accordingly.
* Found out today that I get to be part of something I can't help but think of as a "final project." (Guess that school mentality isn't gone quite yet.) I'm super excited. And as of tomorrow, I will officially have design clips from The Arizona Republic. (Yay!)
* It's not a good idea to use hot keys to release pages. And if you're ever using CCI, stay away from F5 at all costs. Trust me.
* An 11 update (for those of you keeping track of the crazy number stuff): My address as a child was Rt. 4, Box 340 (4+3+4=11); my current house number is 1514 (1+5+1+4=11); the test I took today was 11 pages long; the Diamondbacks ticket I grabbed randomly off the top of the pile on a table at work is, you guessed it, none other than Row 11, Seat 11.
* Vise is that tool in the garage (as in "vise grip"). Vice is that guilty pleasure or bad habit you just can't kick.
* Never think you can't be amazed by the way things come around. It'll never cease to surprise you.
Thursday, July 12, 2007
7/11/07
* We met Tim Gaynor from Reuters wire service today, and he told us these incredible stories about being a foreign correspondent. Almost makes a person want to get back to reporting. ...Almost.
* Don't waste your time being "kind of" happy. It's not worth it. Take a few risks and find something that really fits.
* Don't be that guy who waits until the lane disappears to try and merge when the signs have been telling you the lane ends for a mile and a half. Good grief.
* Nicer restaurants expect to make their money on drinks during Happy Hour, so they often will mark down a mini-menu's worth of items to better-than-reasonable prices. Ten bucks isn't bad for a normally sit-down meal.
* If you have to back up out of an intersection, make sure you've shifted back to "D" while you're waiting. The car won't go from park.
* Everyone has bad days.
* Reuters started in the 1850s with stock prices and carrier pigeons.
* "We want you to explain the U.S. to the world."
* Calls from mommies and old friends always are fantastic. Try it.
* Sad to say, even after college, tests do not go away.
* Don't waste your time being "kind of" happy. It's not worth it. Take a few risks and find something that really fits.
* Don't be that guy who waits until the lane disappears to try and merge when the signs have been telling you the lane ends for a mile and a half. Good grief.
* Nicer restaurants expect to make their money on drinks during Happy Hour, so they often will mark down a mini-menu's worth of items to better-than-reasonable prices. Ten bucks isn't bad for a normally sit-down meal.
* If you have to back up out of an intersection, make sure you've shifted back to "D" while you're waiting. The car won't go from park.
* Everyone has bad days.
* Reuters started in the 1850s with stock prices and carrier pigeons.
* "We want you to explain the U.S. to the world."
* Calls from mommies and old friends always are fantastic. Try it.
* Sad to say, even after college, tests do not go away.
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
7/10/07
* I. Hate. Leafblowers. They're loud and they create lots of dust and pollution. Enough said.
* "Ginormous" was added to the dictionary this year, and a professor from Jacksonville, Ill., was quoted here. Home, sweet home.
* I think I love Spinning (the stationary bike kind ...how's that for ironic?) Let's hope the same holds true in the morning...
* You never know where you'll meet nice people or what will make your day better when you least expect it. At the risk of sounding like a greeting card, staying at home "because you don't feel like (fill in the blank)" is the worst thing you can do.
* "You're young. Have fun with it."
* "Ginormous" was added to the dictionary this year, and a professor from Jacksonville, Ill., was quoted here. Home, sweet home.
* I think I love Spinning (the stationary bike kind ...how's that for ironic?) Let's hope the same holds true in the morning...
* You never know where you'll meet nice people or what will make your day better when you least expect it. At the risk of sounding like a greeting card, staying at home "because you don't feel like (fill in the blank)" is the worst thing you can do.
* "You're young. Have fun with it."
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
7/9/07
* Taser is among the slew of businesses based in the Valley.
* I have a hunch that LayoutChamp is (while obnoxious in its CCI-esque sort of way) all bark and no bite.
* Why do you hear about people in the East and Midwest getting sick and dying of all these heat-related problems in the "oh-my-goodness" 90-degree weather when all the Arizonans are doing just fine at 115?
* To reiterate, there are always more questions than answers.
* What's with everyone being married, getting hitched or dating someone from work? People, come on.
* I have a hunch that LayoutChamp is (while obnoxious in its CCI-esque sort of way) all bark and no bite.
* Why do you hear about people in the East and Midwest getting sick and dying of all these heat-related problems in the "oh-my-goodness" 90-degree weather when all the Arizonans are doing just fine at 115?
* To reiterate, there are always more questions than answers.
* What's with everyone being married, getting hitched or dating someone from work? People, come on.
Monday, July 9, 2007
7/8/07
* The French president traditionally gives mass pardons on Bastille Day to free up spaces in the country's prisons. Sarkozy threw in the towel on that one.
* The past two weeks have been the third-longest stretch of 110-plus degree weather on record in Arizona.
* As for ages... use "infant" or "baby" up to six months, "baby" six months to one year, "toddler" one year to three years, "child" three years to 12 years and "teen" up to 18.
* There is no more awkward place in the world than the elevator.
* And, for your reading pleasure, this could be the greatest brief ever. Enjoy.
'Tree' leaves bank branch with cash, man charged
Just as the Citizen Bank branch opened Saturday morning, a man walked in
disguised as a tree, with leafy boughs duct-taped to his head and torso and
robbed the place.
Officers said James Coldwell, 49, was arrested early Sunday at his
Manchester, N.H., home and charged with robbery. “He really went out on a limb,” police Sgt. Ernie Goodno said Sunday.
— Wire services
* The past two weeks have been the third-longest stretch of 110-plus degree weather on record in Arizona.
* As for ages... use "infant" or "baby" up to six months, "baby" six months to one year, "toddler" one year to three years, "child" three years to 12 years and "teen" up to 18.
* There is no more awkward place in the world than the elevator.
* And, for your reading pleasure, this could be the greatest brief ever. Enjoy.
'Tree' leaves bank branch with cash, man charged
Just as the Citizen Bank branch opened Saturday morning, a man walked in
disguised as a tree, with leafy boughs duct-taped to his head and torso and
robbed the place.
Officers said James Coldwell, 49, was arrested early Sunday at his
Manchester, N.H., home and charged with robbery. “He really went out on a limb,” police Sgt. Ernie Goodno said Sunday.
— Wire services
Sunday, July 8, 2007
07/07/07
(How's this for way back?) Happy birthday (as of midnight), Melissa! Someone buy this woman a drink.
* OK. It's 07/07/07. I get it. Sheesh.
* "Seat time" in race-car driving refers to the amount of driving time a person has had with a particular vehicle.
* Use a thesaurus. More meaning, fewer words. Space is of the essence.
* If you don't understand something, chances are readers won't either. Ask questions. Don't just assume people know and let it go because you're afraid of looking stupid for not knowing something you think you should. More people have to look up things than you realize.
* Not only will the temps remain in the 100s, but it also will get humid soon. (And you thought the Midwest was bad.)
* The solar energy available in Arizona is enough to power the entire country.
Saturday, July 7, 2007
7/6/07
* Murdoch may or may not have finally reached an official deal with Dow Jones, which owns the Wall Street Journal. (I think the general opinion is that someone jumped the gun on this one, though...) Great, as Marco says, now everything will be fair and balanced.
* The band that wrote the theme for "Revenge of the Nerds" is suing Avril Lavigne for allegedly stealing their stuff for that song I know you all love.
* It's "all OF A sudden," people. Come on.
* Skittish. ( I guess I'd never seen it spelled out...)
* A little bit of high school will follow you wherever you go.
* Again, love the people from work.
* Saw my first glimpse of a dust storm today. Pictures when there's really something to see.
* I'm so. tired. of the number seven right now. Yikes.
* The band that wrote the theme for "Revenge of the Nerds" is suing Avril Lavigne for allegedly stealing their stuff for that song I know you all love.
* It's "all OF A sudden," people. Come on.
* Skittish. ( I guess I'd never seen it spelled out...)
* A little bit of high school will follow you wherever you go.
* Again, love the people from work.
* Saw my first glimpse of a dust storm today. Pictures when there's really something to see.
* I'm so. tired. of the number seven right now. Yikes.
Friday, July 6, 2007
7/5/07
* Spartan is not capitalized when it's used as an adjective. Neither is mecca when you're not talking about the actual Mecca.
* ATTN J MAJORS: Check out The Republic's front page tomorrow (Friday) and give me your opinions.
* Libraries aren't necessarily the best resources for things non-book related.
* Hyphenate words that would normally be hyphenated before a noun if they appear after a noun and a form of a "be" verb. (A hard-working man and He is hard-working.)
* Movies start much later in the city. It's almost as if they cater to people like me who have crazy hours. Hmm...
* Anyone been to San Diego?
* ATTN J MAJORS: Check out The Republic's front page tomorrow (Friday) and give me your opinions.
* Libraries aren't necessarily the best resources for things non-book related.
* Hyphenate words that would normally be hyphenated before a noun if they appear after a noun and a form of a "be" verb. (A hard-working man and He is hard-working.)
* Movies start much later in the city. It's almost as if they cater to people like me who have crazy hours. Hmm...
* Anyone been to San Diego?
Thursday, July 5, 2007
7/4/07
* You can see at least two sets of fireworks from my current address.
* Pitbulls aren't as small as I had thought. In fact, I've befriended one without even knowing it.
* Summer in New York still gets to 20 or 30 degrees at night.
* Part of New York is an hour and a half from part of Vermont. (Ok, that one was a little weak.)
* I don't know how to grill.
* I can rest easy knowing there's at least one person in Chicago that I won't have to force to hang out. haha
* If it were this time 10 or 15 or even 20 (man, I feel old...) years ago, I'd be heading home from watching fireworks with my grandparents and picking out which ones were the best (the spidery sizzling ones) after a long week of farming, playing games and gardening, among other things. Those days will always be among my favorite memories. Always.
* Pitbulls aren't as small as I had thought. In fact, I've befriended one without even knowing it.
* Summer in New York still gets to 20 or 30 degrees at night.
* Part of New York is an hour and a half from part of Vermont. (Ok, that one was a little weak.)
* I don't know how to grill.
* I can rest easy knowing there's at least one person in Chicago that I won't have to force to hang out. haha
* If it were this time 10 or 15 or even 20 (man, I feel old...) years ago, I'd be heading home from watching fireworks with my grandparents and picking out which ones were the best (the spidery sizzling ones) after a long week of farming, playing games and gardening, among other things. Those days will always be among my favorite memories. Always.
Wednesday, July 4, 2007
7/3/07
* First, a hearty welcome to Oliver Pierce Jones (above). I vividly remember ending eighth grade with Jerry, and now he's all grown up and married and has a baby boy. Craziness... But congrats, Jerry and Michelle!
* There are 8 ounces in a cup.
* Organic meat is pricey. Actually, organic anything is pricey. And if you go into a store called "Whole Foods," be prepared to hear debates in the aisles and see a bunch of stuff you didn't know existed.
* Oddly enough, said organic store carries "Amy's Organic Salsa."
* Check out (Leslie) Feist if you haven't already.
* Learning to organize a stocked fridge/freezer may be among your greatest assets.
Tuesday, July 3, 2007
7/2/07
* When it rains, it pours. (Only in Arizona, it's always figurative...) Anyway, the point is that opportunity has a way of not coming at all for awhile, then coming at you in a deluge-type fashion. I think it's part of the sitcominess of life.
* Campaign funds raised ("funds raised," but "fundraiser," "fundraising," etc.) are counted both in total amount and amount that can be used for the primary. Keep that in mind when you're getting numbers. You wouldn't want to send the copy desk on a wild goose chase for which one is which.
* It's smart to know what the people around you know when it comes to experiences, expertise, etc. -- that way, you'll always have good references. And people like it when you ask them for information. (Right?)
* I don't know how people can work without deadline. Seriously.
* The 07/07/07 thing doesn't cut it. Talk to me in four years.
* Campaign funds raised ("funds raised," but "fundraiser," "fundraising," etc.) are counted both in total amount and amount that can be used for the primary. Keep that in mind when you're getting numbers. You wouldn't want to send the copy desk on a wild goose chase for which one is which.
* It's smart to know what the people around you know when it comes to experiences, expertise, etc. -- that way, you'll always have good references. And people like it when you ask them for information. (Right?)
* I don't know how people can work without deadline. Seriously.
* The 07/07/07 thing doesn't cut it. Talk to me in four years.
Monday, July 2, 2007
7/1/07
* Sometimes the best option seems to be finding that one person who actually notices when you get a haircut and stick with him.
* The trouble with constant change is that it makes getting close to people really hard.
* There will always be far more questions than answers.
* If you say it the right way, any feedback is good feedback.
* How can AZ do fireworks with wildfires being such a huge issue?
* Is anyone out there? Hello?
* The trouble with constant change is that it makes getting close to people really hard.
* There will always be far more questions than answers.
* If you say it the right way, any feedback is good feedback.
* How can AZ do fireworks with wildfires being such a huge issue?
* Is anyone out there? Hello?
Sunday, July 1, 2007
6/30/07
* "Experts say Fourth of July temperatures could reach near-record highs; holiday revelers cautioned'
Longest. Headline. Ever.
* It is supposed to get up to 117, maybe higher ...I don't even know what to say to that.
* A longtime employee who just retired from The Republic's copy desk wrote songs for Tony Bennett. He was also a pool shark and hung out with Evel Knievel. Journalists might be the most interesting people in the world.
* Despite what Arizona drivers would demonstrate, there actually is a difference between the dotted and solid lines on the highway.
* Cnn.com changed their site in the middle of my shift. Do you like the update?
Longest. Headline. Ever.
* It is supposed to get up to 117, maybe higher ...I don't even know what to say to that.
* A longtime employee who just retired from The Republic's copy desk wrote songs for Tony Bennett. He was also a pool shark and hung out with Evel Knievel. Journalists might be the most interesting people in the world.
* Despite what Arizona drivers would demonstrate, there actually is a difference between the dotted and solid lines on the highway.
* Cnn.com changed their site in the middle of my shift. Do you like the update?
Saturday, June 30, 2007
6/29/07
* Have a great mistake story to tell.
* Some people work really, really hard. Some people know people. Some people just get lucky. Sometimes it's a combination. Don't let one option get you down if you fall into a different one.
* Don't stand in the flow of walking traffic. People will grab you.
* Don't pass up live music opportunities. You never know when you'll get a chance to hear Garth Brooks and Outkast blared from the same grand piano in one night.
* Some people work really, really hard. Some people know people. Some people just get lucky. Sometimes it's a combination. Don't let one option get you down if you fall into a different one.
* Don't stand in the flow of walking traffic. People will grab you.
* Don't pass up live music opportunities. You never know when you'll get a chance to hear Garth Brooks and Outkast blared from the same grand piano in one night.
Friday, June 29, 2007
6/28/07
* Think about the bickery he-said-she-said stuff that goes on at every workplace across the country. After having a session on immigration and hearing about the propositions that get passed and then twisted by various parts of the governmental system on sheer technicality just to spite someone else, it hit me that the entity that runs our country is no different. It just works on a much grander scale -- and it gets put all over the media, so when you read about it at the breakfast table, it doesn't seem as real. On one hand, it's a nice reminder that everyone's human. But on the other (much more prominent) hand... it really makes me feel uneasy about the way our country works.
* For instance, one proposition that came up pertained to "any person who entered or remained in the U.S. illegally." So, because it says "OR" and not "AND," a person who entered illegally 25 years ago and has since jumped through all the hoops and has done everything right to gain legal citizenship can still be charged under whatever law that was. One word. Maybe I'm just a moron, but that blows my mind.
* It is the court's duty to protect the civil rights of anyone in the country -- legally or illegally. And because it is deemed as a means of self-incrimination, the judicial branch (which includes the probation officers, etc. in AZ) cannot legally ask a person if he or she is an illegal immigrant. They have to wait until a prosecutor does that. So you see how things can get drawn out and become quite a jumbled mess.
* People are extra grumpy when the highways are metered. I think they equate the yellow part of light that alternates between yellow and green to tell you when to enter with red, which they equate to stopping and being late to their destination... I'm so glad I don't have to deal with rush hour most of the time.
* Saying hi to people makes them happy. Trust me. Go out of your comfort zone if you have to.
* Regardless (NOT irregardless) of what goes on in your head, it's never too late to change. One of the speakers today said he spent about five years each in about five different places. He's still young and successful and enjoying what he's doing. And he still has plenty of time to start over again.
* Always read the full job description before you draw any conclusions.
* And biz copy might be the most confusing thing in the world.
* For instance, one proposition that came up pertained to "any person who entered or remained in the U.S. illegally." So, because it says "OR" and not "AND," a person who entered illegally 25 years ago and has since jumped through all the hoops and has done everything right to gain legal citizenship can still be charged under whatever law that was. One word. Maybe I'm just a moron, but that blows my mind.
* It is the court's duty to protect the civil rights of anyone in the country -- legally or illegally. And because it is deemed as a means of self-incrimination, the judicial branch (which includes the probation officers, etc. in AZ) cannot legally ask a person if he or she is an illegal immigrant. They have to wait until a prosecutor does that. So you see how things can get drawn out and become quite a jumbled mess.
* People are extra grumpy when the highways are metered. I think they equate the yellow part of light that alternates between yellow and green to tell you when to enter with red, which they equate to stopping and being late to their destination... I'm so glad I don't have to deal with rush hour most of the time.
* Saying hi to people makes them happy. Trust me. Go out of your comfort zone if you have to.
* Regardless (NOT irregardless) of what goes on in your head, it's never too late to change. One of the speakers today said he spent about five years each in about five different places. He's still young and successful and enjoying what he's doing. And he still has plenty of time to start over again.
* Always read the full job description before you draw any conclusions.
* And biz copy might be the most confusing thing in the world.
Thursday, June 28, 2007
6/27/07
* Really great training session on story forms today. The majority of the editing process should be a joint effort between the reporter and editor on the idea itself. Layer-cake style stories are developed like movies -- when brainstorming a scene, make sure it's written as a scene and not an interview. Make people remember things in detail and in order. A story should answer one solid question, not a bunch of shallow ones. If you're interested in more details, I'll make you copies of my notes.
* Remember in high school when your English teacher said you'd use that goofy web-planning technique for the rest of your life? (S)he wasn't kidding.
* My pupils are larger than normal. (Irises are, too, but I already knew that.)
* The concentration of Escalades and Lexuses jumps drastically when you get into Scottsdale. (This, of course, is not scientifically proven ...yet.)
* I love the girls from work.
* Really great training session on story forms today. The majority of the editing process should be a joint effort between the reporter and editor on the idea itself. Layer-cake style stories are developed like movies -- when brainstorming a scene, make sure it's written as a scene and not an interview. Make people remember things in detail and in order. A story should answer one solid question, not a bunch of shallow ones. If you're interested in more details, I'll make you copies of my notes.
* Remember in high school when your English teacher said you'd use that goofy web-planning technique for the rest of your life? (S)he wasn't kidding.
* My pupils are larger than normal. (Irises are, too, but I already knew that.)
* The concentration of Escalades and Lexuses jumps drastically when you get into Scottsdale. (This, of course, is not scientifically proven ...yet.)
* I love the girls from work.
Hello and welcome.
As the description says, my philosophy is that learning continuously keeps you enjoying life. Whether that means accumulating book smarts, improving your work skills or just finally memorizing that plan to get from Point A to Point B in all its sitcomy glory, learning is what keeps things interesting.
For now, I'm making notes on what I learn each day. Some are useful; some are ridiculous; some are things I should have known for years. Sometimes we don't really learn things until we look back on our experiences later. If all goes well, you'll get something out if it, too. Enjoy.
....:::....
NOTE: These are posts to catch you up on the last week or so.
Friday, June 22, 2007
Hear me out on this one
So I was thinking about writing down at least one thing I learn every day. Not enough to call it a blog, really... Just something to look back on and remember or, if nothing, else giggle at in my old age. I've made a mental list -- big, small, meaningful, pointless -- that covers a pretty wide range. If anyone would be remotely interested, I'll do it online. If not, I'll probably just find a notebook.
Compound modifiers that end in -ly are hyphenated if they are adjectives (friendly-fire incident) but not if they are adverbs (slowly walking man). I've had my AP mixed up for three years.
(On second thought, I may do it online anyway just to spite you. mwhaha.)
....:::....
6/22/07
* The Subway across the street from work gives employees of The Republic 10 percent off.
* There are several genuinely nice people left hanging around out there. The crazy thing is that, sometimes, you don't even really have to look for them.
* A cougar, puma, moutain lion and panther are the same animal.
* A Chinese crested/chihuahua mix won the World's Ugliest Dog competition.
* Mill Avenue offers a lot of interesting sights on the weekend, but, if I can help it, I'll never be driving through it again.
(Hey, I never said they'd all be completely useful.)
....:::....
6/23/07
* There are fireworks (not gunshots, as I initially thought) as Chase Field when the Diamondbacks win.
* "July weather" lasts through August in Arizona.
* One of my roomies bought a grill and says the only way to hookah is sitting on floor pillows.
* Chevy is working on a concept car that's powered by batteries that are powered by a small gas engine or by plugging it into the wall. It's called the Volt. (Haha, Get it? Volt? And you plug it... Oh, nevermind.)
....:::....
6/24/07
* Proper nouns in a series. Capitalize the common word if it comes before the series (Lakes Michigan, Superior and Ontario) but not if it comes after the series (Camelback and McKellips roads).
* "No one is perfect ... except during the first three weeks of a romance."
* As of July, all Arizona public schools grades 7 through college must have an American-made American flag and copies of the Constitution and Declaration of Independence (all Es!) displayed in each classroom.
* THIS GUY might be my hero. Read his June 22 blog (called "This is only a test") and tell me what you got on his quiz. (and DON'T CHEAT.)
::Edit:: I scored 6/6. (I am a copy editor, after all. :) )
....:::....
6/25/07
First, let me say that I think you guys may have a little too much time on your hands to being enjoying these, but I appreciate the kind words. :) Here we go...
* Bill Clinton was in Scottsdale tonight for a Democratic Party fundraiser.
* Tank Johnson apparently lives in the Valley as well. (Bears fans?)
* Guinness World Records rejected the title of world's youngest surgeon after a 15-year-old boy reportedly performed a C-section on video with the help of his doctor parents (who were then arrested).
* Medical study stuff:
> Mayo Clinic says you can burn 119 more calories per hour if you work while on a treadmill. They're developed "vertical workstations" that allow you to walk at your own pace while working on your computer. An obese person can also lose up to 50 pounds in a year. (Check out the whole story.)
> Giving up bad habits collectively instead of one at a time has proved to be slightly more effective.
> Eons.com, a site dedicated to baby boomers, offers brain exercises that are supposed to keep your mind sharper into older age and help avoid Alzheimer's.
* Fender is based in Scottsdale.
* Arizonans (yes, Arizonans) are paying 7.4 percent higher than the U.S. average for milk.
* I feel much more productive on my "Friday" than I do most other days of the week.
* This one's a real shocker: Pregnant women do not like people rubbing their bellies, polls say. I would have never guessed.
* And a grammar lesson for the day -- don't use "alleged" unless you can name the person doing the alleging. ("The police allege that the boy performed a C-section." rather than "The boy allegedly...") Instead, use "reportedly." Same effect. Doesn't make you sound like you're pointing fingers out of thin air.
....:::....
6/26/07
* I don't feel well.
* The woman who cut my hair today has also cut Kathy Griffin's. She also makes me want to dye my locks bright, cherry red. (Can I still do that?)
* Tell someone you miss them. Even if you don't say it in so many words, it will mean a lot to them.
* Christa Miller not only plays Jordan Sullivan on "Scrubs," she was also in "The Drew Carrey Show." I just realized this today. She's also married to "Scrubs" creator Bill Lawrence.
* The day we find out Janitor's name is the day the series ends. Because he originally was going to be a figment of J.D.'s imagination, he doesn't interact with any other characters during the first season. And Neil Flynn really was in "The Fugitive."
* The man who plays Bob Kelso was in stage theater for years and is actually a very sweet man. Cast members say the guy who plays Todd is most like his character.
* The real J.D.'s name is Jon Doris. Many of the guest characters in the show are named after real people Bill Lawrence knows. There are also a handful of regular extras.
* Zach Braff was hung over during his first audition for "Scrubs." He went to a second audition because the casting director was different and no one remembered his first try.
(Any guesses as to what I did on my day off?)
"Relationships don't work the way they do in the movies. Will they? Won't they? Then they finally do, and they're happy forever. Give me a break.
"Nine out of 10 of 'em end because they weren't right for each other to begin with and half the ones that get married get divorced anyway, and I'm telling you right now through all this stuff I have not become a cynic. I haven't.
"Yes, I do happen to believe that love is mainly about pushing chocolate-covered candies and, you know, in come cultures, a chicken. You can call me a sucker, I don't care. Because I do believe in it.
"Bottom line is that the couples that are right for each other wade through the same crap as everybody else, but the big difference is they don't let it take 'em down. One of those two people will stand up and fight for that relationship every time if it's right and they're real lucky. One of them will say something."
As the description says, my philosophy is that learning continuously keeps you enjoying life. Whether that means accumulating book smarts, improving your work skills or just finally memorizing that plan to get from Point A to Point B in all its sitcomy glory, learning is what keeps things interesting.
For now, I'm making notes on what I learn each day. Some are useful; some are ridiculous; some are things I should have known for years. Sometimes we don't really learn things until we look back on our experiences later. If all goes well, you'll get something out if it, too. Enjoy.
....:::....
NOTE: These are posts to catch you up on the last week or so.
Friday, June 22, 2007
Hear me out on this one
So I was thinking about writing down at least one thing I learn every day. Not enough to call it a blog, really... Just something to look back on and remember or, if nothing, else giggle at in my old age. I've made a mental list -- big, small, meaningful, pointless -- that covers a pretty wide range. If anyone would be remotely interested, I'll do it online. If not, I'll probably just find a notebook.
Compound modifiers that end in -ly are hyphenated if they are adjectives (friendly-fire incident) but not if they are adverbs (slowly walking man). I've had my AP mixed up for three years.
(On second thought, I may do it online anyway just to spite you. mwhaha.)
....:::....
6/22/07
* The Subway across the street from work gives employees of The Republic 10 percent off.
* There are several genuinely nice people left hanging around out there. The crazy thing is that, sometimes, you don't even really have to look for them.
* A cougar, puma, moutain lion and panther are the same animal.
* A Chinese crested/chihuahua mix won the World's Ugliest Dog competition.
* Mill Avenue offers a lot of interesting sights on the weekend, but, if I can help it, I'll never be driving through it again.
(Hey, I never said they'd all be completely useful.)
....:::....
6/23/07
* There are fireworks (not gunshots, as I initially thought) as Chase Field when the Diamondbacks win.
* "July weather" lasts through August in Arizona.
* One of my roomies bought a grill and says the only way to hookah is sitting on floor pillows.
* Chevy is working on a concept car that's powered by batteries that are powered by a small gas engine or by plugging it into the wall. It's called the Volt. (Haha, Get it? Volt? And you plug it... Oh, nevermind.)
....:::....
6/24/07
* Proper nouns in a series. Capitalize the common word if it comes before the series (Lakes Michigan, Superior and Ontario) but not if it comes after the series (Camelback and McKellips roads).
* "No one is perfect ... except during the first three weeks of a romance."
* As of July, all Arizona public schools grades 7 through college must have an American-made American flag and copies of the Constitution and Declaration of Independence (all Es!) displayed in each classroom.
* THIS GUY might be my hero. Read his June 22 blog (called "This is only a test") and tell me what you got on his quiz. (and DON'T CHEAT.)
::Edit:: I scored 6/6. (I am a copy editor, after all. :) )
....:::....
6/25/07
First, let me say that I think you guys may have a little too much time on your hands to being enjoying these, but I appreciate the kind words. :) Here we go...
* Bill Clinton was in Scottsdale tonight for a Democratic Party fundraiser.
* Tank Johnson apparently lives in the Valley as well. (Bears fans?)
* Guinness World Records rejected the title of world's youngest surgeon after a 15-year-old boy reportedly performed a C-section on video with the help of his doctor parents (who were then arrested).
* Medical study stuff:
> Mayo Clinic says you can burn 119 more calories per hour if you work while on a treadmill. They're developed "vertical workstations" that allow you to walk at your own pace while working on your computer. An obese person can also lose up to 50 pounds in a year. (Check out the whole story.)
> Giving up bad habits collectively instead of one at a time has proved to be slightly more effective.
> Eons.com, a site dedicated to baby boomers, offers brain exercises that are supposed to keep your mind sharper into older age and help avoid Alzheimer's.
* Fender is based in Scottsdale.
* Arizonans (yes, Arizonans) are paying 7.4 percent higher than the U.S. average for milk.
* I feel much more productive on my "Friday" than I do most other days of the week.
* This one's a real shocker: Pregnant women do not like people rubbing their bellies, polls say. I would have never guessed.
* And a grammar lesson for the day -- don't use "alleged" unless you can name the person doing the alleging. ("The police allege that the boy performed a C-section." rather than "The boy allegedly...") Instead, use "reportedly." Same effect. Doesn't make you sound like you're pointing fingers out of thin air.
....:::....
6/26/07
* I don't feel well.
* The woman who cut my hair today has also cut Kathy Griffin's. She also makes me want to dye my locks bright, cherry red. (Can I still do that?)
* Tell someone you miss them. Even if you don't say it in so many words, it will mean a lot to them.
* Christa Miller not only plays Jordan Sullivan on "Scrubs," she was also in "The Drew Carrey Show." I just realized this today. She's also married to "Scrubs" creator Bill Lawrence.
* The day we find out Janitor's name is the day the series ends. Because he originally was going to be a figment of J.D.'s imagination, he doesn't interact with any other characters during the first season. And Neil Flynn really was in "The Fugitive."
* The man who plays Bob Kelso was in stage theater for years and is actually a very sweet man. Cast members say the guy who plays Todd is most like his character.
* The real J.D.'s name is Jon Doris. Many of the guest characters in the show are named after real people Bill Lawrence knows. There are also a handful of regular extras.
* Zach Braff was hung over during his first audition for "Scrubs." He went to a second audition because the casting director was different and no one remembered his first try.
(Any guesses as to what I did on my day off?)
"Relationships don't work the way they do in the movies. Will they? Won't they? Then they finally do, and they're happy forever. Give me a break.
"Nine out of 10 of 'em end because they weren't right for each other to begin with and half the ones that get married get divorced anyway, and I'm telling you right now through all this stuff I have not become a cynic. I haven't.
"Yes, I do happen to believe that love is mainly about pushing chocolate-covered candies and, you know, in come cultures, a chicken. You can call me a sucker, I don't care. Because I do believe in it.
"Bottom line is that the couples that are right for each other wade through the same crap as everybody else, but the big difference is they don't let it take 'em down. One of those two people will stand up and fight for that relationship every time if it's right and they're real lucky. One of them will say something."
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