When I was considering a title for this post, I could not imagine anything better then what title I gave it. It explains the essence of what this week has been about. Let me break it down for you.
Laughs -
This week especially I have been well accepted into the Georgia State family. This is a fabulous feeling. Basically this means that they feel comfortable enough now to crack jokes at the way I say words. First there is the southern word y'all. I don't really understand the point of putting it together. I say you all. Or as the "Midwest" supposedly changes it to you guys. I find it hard now to say either of these phrases. Saying you guys just reaffirms that I am indeed from the Midwest and no one knows what the heck I'm talking about. On the other hand saying y'all feels so foreign that I am unable to even utter it without thinking hard before saying it. Its like learning a new language...I think I need Rosetta Stone. Second is the word both. So I may be the only one that says it funny, but apparently there is a hint of an "L" in the middle of the word for me. The first time I said both my coworkers asked me to repeat it 5 times before they realized what I was trying to say to them. Third, the word bag. Bag is a bag here too just like it is in Iowa and Missouri. What is different about my version of a bag and the southern version of a bag is how long I say the "a". Jamie K is probably one of the only people that has ever gotten made fun of for saying this so strangely to people. To us its just a bag. Not a "beg" as some try to tell me I am saying. Eh. I am happy to not be losing my words because I am proud of my roots. Yes I said PROUD of my roots - which are in the Midwest. My branches may be sprouting in the south it would seem. The laughs because of my language are not the only laughs happening.
I was in a giggle mood most of the week which had to have made life interesting for my coworkers. Since I am new many, OK all, have not witnessed those days as I am sure some of you have. I just find everything enjoyable on days like that, and my coworkers were convinced I was on something. I hope many of my weeks include at least one day where I am in this kind of mood. I mean really how much better can a day get when you start it off by having "California Girls" by Katy Perry stuck in your head. 3 days in a row this happened. This promoted me to ponder why there are no songs about Midwest girls - leave out the country, I'm talking top 40 here. NOTHING. If you know of a good top 40 song written specifically with Midwest girls in mind please let me know.
Creepers -
Many close to me know this story but it got worse on Monday night. I can down to the common area for my nightly e-mail and coffee break. I settled in at a chair and plugged in my lap top. I was searching for frames to decorate my office with when in walked creeper. He has a name and I do know it, but I would rather call him creeper. I am not a mean person and have a hard time being flat out rude to people. This is something that I am going to have to change, because I will not deal with this any more. He came in shouting my name at the top of his lungs even though there was not anyone else around. Geez. He started asking me about my weekend and I am careful to only share generalizations. I said I went to the pool and the park. Then he proceeded to ask me what kind of swimsuit I was wearing. REALLY! What the heck? Remember that this whole time I am clearly working on something and not really looking at him or making eye contact, yet he is still talking to me. At this weird outlandish question, I quickly picked up my phone and sent a "HELP" text to Andrew. He noticed and said something like "why you always texting people when I'm talking to you?" to which I reply, because I am busy. Thank GOD for super fabulous friends because at that moment Andrew called and I began to talk to him. To my surprise he stayed in the area for a while longer while I tried to subtly explain to Andrew what was happening - we carried on with some small talk - until he left. Very creepy. Since Monday I have avoided the common area (hence no updates till now). Now whenever I leave my apartment I put my headphones in and listen to music before I even arrive here so that I can fully ignore if I need to.
Box of Food -
There now sits in my office a huge box of random food and another of bottled water. How did it get there? Basically I cleaned out some goodies bags that were cluttering my office. I hate clutter. I am not a fan of having random things around that you never use. Graduation items were also cleaned out from which 7 stuffed puppy dogs emerged. Remember that I was in a goofy mood. Well this meant that those dogs got placed in my coworkers office. HA. What was fabulous about the whole situation was that he knew it was me. What the heck? These dogs then got transferred back to my office and then back to his again. Now they are in the hands of some lovely new GSU students (given away as prizes).
Other things from the week:
*I am currently still wrestling with the issue of where my professional line is located. Basically I am unsure of exactly what is okay for me to do outside of work with the Inceptors and what is not acceptable as a professional. I know this will come with time, but it has caused me a bit of confusion this past week.
*Church - I went to a beautiful church this Sunday, but I am still on a quest to find the perfect one for me. I will be praying a lot this week for guidance.
*Students - I really adore students. I mean I love parents, but students are the reason I even have parents to work with. I have always said I would have an open door policy because I think students need to know they are free to come in and talk whenever they need. I can put off sending an e-mail or making a phone call to talk with a student for 5 minutes or more. This week I really felt like the students were beginning to see me as a person they can go to if they have problems or concerns. Many came to my office to discuss their classes, future, other students, or just to say hey. I could not be happier to have already begun to build these relationships with them.
*Parents - The Parents Association hit it big this week. I fell in love with some parents that are totally awesome. Since this is a big portion of my job I am super happy to have success. Talking with each new set of parents is interesting. Each session has its own set of personalities. Some are meek, others crazy and so on. Its fun trying to work my way through each new day and what the parents will be like. Oh Parents I heart you all!
*Sunburn and Society- my summer goal is to spend one day during the weekend at the pool and the other out in the community. This weekend I spent Saturday at the pool. It was hot (as if that's anything different then normal), but the wind was blowing so it didn't seem so bad and the passing clouds left a nice shade about every 15 minutes. I put sunblock on the same as last week, but this week I should have reapplied. The sun is awesome. I feel so refreshed after spending a few hours in the sun. This week I got a little red on my legs - still dealing with that a bit. My freckles are totally out and my Johnson birthmark is quite prominent. The other day of me weekend is taken by something very Atlantan. Last week I went to a park, this week the High Museum. It was awesome. I discovered I am more an Early European art fan then Modern art. Oh and the exhibit The Allure of the Automobile was going on which was pretty freaking cool. I don't even like cars that much, but it was still cool. While driving to and from the museum I noticed a bunch of places I need to go and eat or drink including a Gastropub and a wine place. I really need to get comfortable going places alone.
Well this week has started my settling in process. I am still the newbie at work and around town, but I now have a grasp on what I need to accomplish at work and at home.
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Outdoor Adventures
The sun was shining, a few clouds in the sky and it was 89 degrees at 11am. That's where today's adventure began. I started the morning by grabbing some tea and my mail then headed off to Piedmont Park at around 11am. I wasn't positive where I was going, but I figured I would know once I got there. WOW. How I have been so unplanned lately. This is unnatural for me.
Oh Piedmont Park. You were everything that I could have imagined and more. I set out to just walk around the park and was stunned at the amount of people there already at 11am. Its crazy that people were walking dogs, running, skipping, and riding bikes in unison it seemed. I wondered as I set out on foot, if people would be able to notice that I was not one of them, that I a Midwestern girl from Iowa was not at all acquainted with Atlanta and the people that inhabited the parks. But after walking past half a dozen people that were exactly the opposite of the previous person, I gathered there was no common theme among any of them so I fit right in.
My problem. I had no clue where I was going or what path to take to get to somewhere. It wasn't like parks I was used to - having just one or two paths around instead there were like 50 different routes to take. So again I became a free spirit and set off in which ever direction called me at the moment. I discovered the mountains and lake that Laura talked about in Utah. Except my version was actually a small lake and skyscrapers. (See Facebook for a picture). I took a moment to take in my environment as I stood under a few trees and looked across the lake to the city beyond. I smiled to myself. There was a young family rocking on a swing behind me and it was warming to know that Atlanta was loving. I think that sometimes people caught me smiling and probably thought that girl must be on something, because I often was just enjoying the place I was in that a smile was escaping. I listened to music with only one ear piece in so that I could still hear the environment around me. This allows me to be in a world all my own, but still be observant enough to hear people talking about the weather or their dogs. Needless to say this was a super fabulous adventure. I paused about an hour into my trek to just sit in the grass on a hill overlooking "the oval." I put this in quotes because there were signs up about every 25 feet around the oval that stated - NO dogs, bicycles or strollers. (I think that's right) either way it was kind of funny. Every time I walked past one I giggled. It was really for everyone's own good, because I sat and watched the people running/walking/sprinting around the oval and there really was no room for anything other then single people getting exercise. Inside the oval were playing fields - a baseball diamond, open green area, and two sand volleyball courts. How fun!!! I observed a while longer then took off. PS It was extremely hot. Even in the shade I was sweating. I didn't mind one bit though it was actually quite refreshing to sweat. I finished my park adventure with a short trip in the botanical garden. Beautiful flowers and art.
It was kind of fun just walking and observing. Again I realized I am fascinated with people. Everyone has a story and I often like to make up the rest that does not outwardly show because it makes these strangers someone I can relate to. My favorites today included: the rollerskater, the dogwalker, the bikerider, the writer, and the poet.
1. The Rollerskater - yes apparently people still do roller skate. This woman and I should totally be friends. She had on her knee pads and hand gloves. Don't worry everyone she was working her arms. It reminded me of the people you see roller skating on Venice beach rocking out to the music in their head and swirving back and forth. I'm positive this is a good work out, but it was interesting to watch.
2. The Dogwalker or should a say Dog runner. Many people run with dogs but this was different. When I first say this man coming I thought how awesome that he takes that big dog for a run on a leash...then as he ran by me I noticed a chihuahua scampering behind (not on a leash). I think I might have laughed out loud. Every so often he would look behind just to make sure the little one was still there. It was hilarious to see, but for the dogs they seemed to be both enjoying themselves.
3, The bike rider. There are too many. My favorite the couple - one with a normal mountain bike and his girlfriend with a bike from the Wizard of Oz basket and all. FUNNY. I imagined he really loved this girl because otherwise who would want to ride in public with that.
4 and 5. The Writer and Poet. I don't really know if either of the guys I saw were actually writers or poets but I like to think they were. They sat on opposite sides of the mini-lake. One was thinking extremely hard and would scribble a little and then smile. He had a stack of journals next to him but was writing in a tinier one - he was the poet. The other dude was an older gentleman who had clearly been writing for a long time. He was steadily writing in his journal and would take moments to observe his surroundings and then write some more - he writes novels. I hope its a good one.
I finished my Sunday by wishing Happy Fathers Day to everyone and then retreated upward to the pool on the roof. Man what a view. I read and tanned - yes I do tan - but I definitely burned my back a bit (the part I can't reach). Anyway that's another adventure for the books.
Oh Piedmont Park. You were everything that I could have imagined and more. I set out to just walk around the park and was stunned at the amount of people there already at 11am. Its crazy that people were walking dogs, running, skipping, and riding bikes in unison it seemed. I wondered as I set out on foot, if people would be able to notice that I was not one of them, that I a Midwestern girl from Iowa was not at all acquainted with Atlanta and the people that inhabited the parks. But after walking past half a dozen people that were exactly the opposite of the previous person, I gathered there was no common theme among any of them so I fit right in.
My problem. I had no clue where I was going or what path to take to get to somewhere. It wasn't like parks I was used to - having just one or two paths around instead there were like 50 different routes to take. So again I became a free spirit and set off in which ever direction called me at the moment. I discovered the mountains and lake that Laura talked about in Utah. Except my version was actually a small lake and skyscrapers. (See Facebook for a picture). I took a moment to take in my environment as I stood under a few trees and looked across the lake to the city beyond. I smiled to myself. There was a young family rocking on a swing behind me and it was warming to know that Atlanta was loving. I think that sometimes people caught me smiling and probably thought that girl must be on something, because I often was just enjoying the place I was in that a smile was escaping. I listened to music with only one ear piece in so that I could still hear the environment around me. This allows me to be in a world all my own, but still be observant enough to hear people talking about the weather or their dogs. Needless to say this was a super fabulous adventure. I paused about an hour into my trek to just sit in the grass on a hill overlooking "the oval." I put this in quotes because there were signs up about every 25 feet around the oval that stated - NO dogs, bicycles or strollers. (I think that's right) either way it was kind of funny. Every time I walked past one I giggled. It was really for everyone's own good, because I sat and watched the people running/walking/sprinting around the oval and there really was no room for anything other then single people getting exercise. Inside the oval were playing fields - a baseball diamond, open green area, and two sand volleyball courts. How fun!!! I observed a while longer then took off. PS It was extremely hot. Even in the shade I was sweating. I didn't mind one bit though it was actually quite refreshing to sweat. I finished my park adventure with a short trip in the botanical garden. Beautiful flowers and art.
It was kind of fun just walking and observing. Again I realized I am fascinated with people. Everyone has a story and I often like to make up the rest that does not outwardly show because it makes these strangers someone I can relate to. My favorites today included: the rollerskater, the dogwalker, the bikerider, the writer, and the poet.
1. The Rollerskater - yes apparently people still do roller skate. This woman and I should totally be friends. She had on her knee pads and hand gloves. Don't worry everyone she was working her arms. It reminded me of the people you see roller skating on Venice beach rocking out to the music in their head and swirving back and forth. I'm positive this is a good work out, but it was interesting to watch.
2. The Dogwalker or should a say Dog runner. Many people run with dogs but this was different. When I first say this man coming I thought how awesome that he takes that big dog for a run on a leash...then as he ran by me I noticed a chihuahua scampering behind (not on a leash). I think I might have laughed out loud. Every so often he would look behind just to make sure the little one was still there. It was hilarious to see, but for the dogs they seemed to be both enjoying themselves.
3, The bike rider. There are too many. My favorite the couple - one with a normal mountain bike and his girlfriend with a bike from the Wizard of Oz basket and all. FUNNY. I imagined he really loved this girl because otherwise who would want to ride in public with that.
4 and 5. The Writer and Poet. I don't really know if either of the guys I saw were actually writers or poets but I like to think they were. They sat on opposite sides of the mini-lake. One was thinking extremely hard and would scribble a little and then smile. He had a stack of journals next to him but was writing in a tinier one - he was the poet. The other dude was an older gentleman who had clearly been writing for a long time. He was steadily writing in his journal and would take moments to observe his surroundings and then write some more - he writes novels. I hope its a good one.
I finished my Sunday by wishing Happy Fathers Day to everyone and then retreated upward to the pool on the roof. Man what a view. I read and tanned - yes I do tan - but I definitely burned my back a bit (the part I can't reach). Anyway that's another adventure for the books.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Weekend Shopping Trip
Just like any other shopping trip you have alone its easy to people watch and you always pick up on the weirdest things. Today was no exception. I set out to find a Macy's because I have a gift card from my great aunt that I was looking to spend. The morning went a lot slowing then I had anticipated and I didn't get a start until about noon. No big deal because really what else am I doing. Its weird to not have to work on a project or do homework I just have the whole weekend to do whatever I want. Its totally awesome.
According to my GPS the closest Macy's is in Buckhead. Which really isn't that far but basically means I have to get on 75/85 the dreaded interstates of Atlanta. I don't mind it really. You just have to be much more defensive then when you are in Springfield/Sioux City. I also throw "Genny" (that's the name I have given my GPS) off because i make a wrong turn and she has to recalculate. I really don't mind making wrong turns because its just showing me more of the city and how to get out of certain areas the quickest. Well Genny freaked out ALOT on this journey because I was not very good at being in the correct lane at the right time to turn where she wanted me to go. Eh' its whatever.
Well the Lenox Square Mall was my first destination that is after I refueled. Genny tried to lead me to a station that was no longer in existence. This was extremely frustrating, but eventually I found another station and was back on route to the mall. Well I again took a wrong turn, I'm really good at that. It was really an adventure for me. I didn't care so much really. I saw some great houses in wonderful neighborhoods. If I decide to stay in Atlanta for a while, I may just have to purchase one in one of the neighborhoods I looked at today - hmmm...I wonder if I could find them again. LOL. Andrew you would have loved the houses I looked at - and if you come to the ATL I would suggest that area to you. Its really not far from downtown either - I may consider a house next year too.
So I get to the Mall - which I didn't think was super huge, I parked in the peachtree garage. Now garages for parking are not uncommon because of the space. I went to Target last weekend and they have a garage so I didn't think much of it. Until I stepped foot in the mall and it was like walking into Mall of America. HOLY CRAP it was huge. there are 3 floors anchored by Macy's, Bloomingdale's, and Nieman Marcus. Yep those three stores were also three stories. I felt a little overwhelmed, especially cause I don't normally shop alone. I stared walking the length of the mall in search of the Macy's. Actually I wasn't looking to hard as I wanted to see what else could possibly be there. It was like literally walking into the melting pot. Every group represented in every age group. I finally decided that I needed to at least go into one of these stores and took the easy way out by entering Bath and Body Works. It was a safe bet. I found some items and chatted small talk with one of the workers. We talked about the diffusers, since that's what I was buying and how sometimes you just need to get a brand new one because they get old and worn out. Yes it was a random conversation and yes I enjoyed it probably too much.
Finally though I was ready to take on Macy's in its three stories of wonder. I was in search of something anything that I either could wear or would be useful in my new apartment. I walked up and down the three levels not really finding anything expect items that were way to expensive and not at all what I as a 24 yr old would actually need in my apartment. After leaving Macy's I wondered through the rest of the mall meeting some rather interesting folks along the way. I didn't purchase anything else besides a few things from Bath and Body Works. It took me a good 10 minutes to remember the direction for which i entered this great mall. Remember how I parked at the Peachtree Garage. There was also a Lenox Road Garage and parking in the front and Valet Parking. YES Valet parking. I imagined as I walked out of the Gap what this mall is like on Black Friday. Immediately I thought to myself - I better be home because I will not deal with that (and I laughed to myself a little)
Here is a recap of the people I observed while at the mall -
1. The elderly couple. This was the cutest thing ever! An old may sat on a bench with this cane as his Wife was walking into Macy's. He yelled after her "Mable" but she just kept on going. I like to think that she heard him, but was just ignoring him.
2. "Waiting on a Woman" - This man reminded me of Andy Griffin in the video for Brad Paisley's song "Waiting on a Woman." He sat calmly on a bench and you could just tell he was content waiting however long it took. I want a guy like that someday.
3. The fundraising guy. I don't even know what made me stop as this guy called after me saying "Excuse me" times five. But I did. I was nice and courteous as I always am with people I randomly encounter. This guy was one of those magazine people that gets a free trip if he gets so many points. Well - he was a student at UGa (at least that's what he said). He kept referring to himself as attractive - which he clearly was not and he smelled like he had smokes 2 packs before speaking to me. I am glad I have learned how to say NO!!! I politely said sorry I don't have cash - he said he would take me to an ATM (really I'm not going to pull money out for you Mr.) I laughed when he said that and was like sorry not going to happen. And as I walked away I felt a little powerful.
4. The mothers are always fun to watch and they were out in full force. Some pulling their children along through stores and others pushing them in strollers. One child stuck out to me. She was skipping along coming towards me as I was just entering the mall. She was singing and couldn't have been more then like 4. Her dad was walking behind her a few feet. All of a sudden she lost a flip flop said whoops and kept on going. I laughed because she didn't bother to pick up her shoe at all - her dad did and he swooped her up into his arms - she was still singing.
After the mall I decided to go to a TJ Maxx and Old Navy that I say as I was taking wrong turn earlier in the day. Not so bad to get there - I only took a couple of wrong turns. LOL.
I shopped a little at both these shops as well as the Nordstroms and then decided I would head home. HA. NOT. I actually plugged Target into Genny and she led me to a Target Greatland. This was awesome because I knew they would have everything I needed. Oh Target how I love thee.
Then it was homeward bound. There was big time traffic, but I know my exit now and pretty much could turn Genny off and get home. Its pretty sweet to be able to do that. I did have to return a movie to redbox - I can get to that without Genny too. Backing out of my space to leave the parking lot I noticed a good looking man pushing his cart back to the cart holder thing. He headphones on and i thought man I should really get to know him. Then he climbed into his Porsche! YES I said Porsche. I thought again I really should get to know him. But that thought quickly changed as we both went the same direction on the street and he weaved in and out of traffic. I thought what dbag. Why do people that have expensive cars have to act like they are better then everyone else? I don't understand it.
Anyway. That was today's adventure. Tomorrow the park.
According to my GPS the closest Macy's is in Buckhead. Which really isn't that far but basically means I have to get on 75/85 the dreaded interstates of Atlanta. I don't mind it really. You just have to be much more defensive then when you are in Springfield/Sioux City. I also throw "Genny" (that's the name I have given my GPS) off because i make a wrong turn and she has to recalculate. I really don't mind making wrong turns because its just showing me more of the city and how to get out of certain areas the quickest. Well Genny freaked out ALOT on this journey because I was not very good at being in the correct lane at the right time to turn where she wanted me to go. Eh' its whatever.
Well the Lenox Square Mall was my first destination that is after I refueled. Genny tried to lead me to a station that was no longer in existence. This was extremely frustrating, but eventually I found another station and was back on route to the mall. Well I again took a wrong turn, I'm really good at that. It was really an adventure for me. I didn't care so much really. I saw some great houses in wonderful neighborhoods. If I decide to stay in Atlanta for a while, I may just have to purchase one in one of the neighborhoods I looked at today - hmmm...I wonder if I could find them again. LOL. Andrew you would have loved the houses I looked at - and if you come to the ATL I would suggest that area to you. Its really not far from downtown either - I may consider a house next year too.
So I get to the Mall - which I didn't think was super huge, I parked in the peachtree garage. Now garages for parking are not uncommon because of the space. I went to Target last weekend and they have a garage so I didn't think much of it. Until I stepped foot in the mall and it was like walking into Mall of America. HOLY CRAP it was huge. there are 3 floors anchored by Macy's, Bloomingdale's, and Nieman Marcus. Yep those three stores were also three stories. I felt a little overwhelmed, especially cause I don't normally shop alone. I stared walking the length of the mall in search of the Macy's. Actually I wasn't looking to hard as I wanted to see what else could possibly be there. It was like literally walking into the melting pot. Every group represented in every age group. I finally decided that I needed to at least go into one of these stores and took the easy way out by entering Bath and Body Works. It was a safe bet. I found some items and chatted small talk with one of the workers. We talked about the diffusers, since that's what I was buying and how sometimes you just need to get a brand new one because they get old and worn out. Yes it was a random conversation and yes I enjoyed it probably too much.
Finally though I was ready to take on Macy's in its three stories of wonder. I was in search of something anything that I either could wear or would be useful in my new apartment. I walked up and down the three levels not really finding anything expect items that were way to expensive and not at all what I as a 24 yr old would actually need in my apartment. After leaving Macy's I wondered through the rest of the mall meeting some rather interesting folks along the way. I didn't purchase anything else besides a few things from Bath and Body Works. It took me a good 10 minutes to remember the direction for which i entered this great mall. Remember how I parked at the Peachtree Garage. There was also a Lenox Road Garage and parking in the front and Valet Parking. YES Valet parking. I imagined as I walked out of the Gap what this mall is like on Black Friday. Immediately I thought to myself - I better be home because I will not deal with that (and I laughed to myself a little)
Here is a recap of the people I observed while at the mall -
1. The elderly couple. This was the cutest thing ever! An old may sat on a bench with this cane as his Wife was walking into Macy's. He yelled after her "Mable" but she just kept on going. I like to think that she heard him, but was just ignoring him.
2. "Waiting on a Woman" - This man reminded me of Andy Griffin in the video for Brad Paisley's song "Waiting on a Woman." He sat calmly on a bench and you could just tell he was content waiting however long it took. I want a guy like that someday.
3. The fundraising guy. I don't even know what made me stop as this guy called after me saying "Excuse me" times five. But I did. I was nice and courteous as I always am with people I randomly encounter. This guy was one of those magazine people that gets a free trip if he gets so many points. Well - he was a student at UGa (at least that's what he said). He kept referring to himself as attractive - which he clearly was not and he smelled like he had smokes 2 packs before speaking to me. I am glad I have learned how to say NO!!! I politely said sorry I don't have cash - he said he would take me to an ATM (really I'm not going to pull money out for you Mr.) I laughed when he said that and was like sorry not going to happen. And as I walked away I felt a little powerful.
4. The mothers are always fun to watch and they were out in full force. Some pulling their children along through stores and others pushing them in strollers. One child stuck out to me. She was skipping along coming towards me as I was just entering the mall. She was singing and couldn't have been more then like 4. Her dad was walking behind her a few feet. All of a sudden she lost a flip flop said whoops and kept on going. I laughed because she didn't bother to pick up her shoe at all - her dad did and he swooped her up into his arms - she was still singing.
After the mall I decided to go to a TJ Maxx and Old Navy that I say as I was taking wrong turn earlier in the day. Not so bad to get there - I only took a couple of wrong turns. LOL.
I shopped a little at both these shops as well as the Nordstroms and then decided I would head home. HA. NOT. I actually plugged Target into Genny and she led me to a Target Greatland. This was awesome because I knew they would have everything I needed. Oh Target how I love thee.
Then it was homeward bound. There was big time traffic, but I know my exit now and pretty much could turn Genny off and get home. Its pretty sweet to be able to do that. I did have to return a movie to redbox - I can get to that without Genny too. Backing out of my space to leave the parking lot I noticed a good looking man pushing his cart back to the cart holder thing. He headphones on and i thought man I should really get to know him. Then he climbed into his Porsche! YES I said Porsche. I thought again I really should get to know him. But that thought quickly changed as we both went the same direction on the street and he weaved in and out of traffic. I thought what dbag. Why do people that have expensive cars have to act like they are better then everyone else? I don't understand it.
Anyway. That was today's adventure. Tomorrow the park.
First week complete
I finished my first full week of work. It was pretty darn fabulous. The people I work with are great and really have made me feel welcome. Already I feel like I am one of the family - not to mention they tell me that too. Its just so nice to feel comfortable at work and know that people really care about you.
I was chatting with some cohort friends and realized that I am in the best place for me. Laura talked of mountains and lakes and beautiful sunsets. As I told her that my life was surrounded with skyscrapers and traffic - I laughed. It sounds funny to say that I prefer where I am now to where Laura is in mountains. There is just something about the architecture of the buildings and the craziness of the driving that makes me love this place. Maybe its the work that I'm doing, the students/parents that I interact with or the place I am living (free Starbucks 24/7) but I am making this place my home. I guess that's the most important thing.
As I was wrapping up on Friday I was contemplating what to do with my weekend. Its tough not knowing anyone and trying to explore the city. I decided that this would be my weekend of park hunting. And by that I mean I am going to check out the local parks. Piedmont park is like the central park of Atlanta I am told. So tomorrow (Sunday) I am going to go check it out. I am discovering more and more my inner "I". I am appreciative of the time I do have when I am with people, but I also enjoy my nights where I can sit on my balcony and reflect on the "newness" of my life. Its quite interesting the feeling that comes from being completely out of your element. My patients with people has grown greatly.
Oh the language. It cracks me up how many different dialects you can hear in one office when they are all technically from Georgia. Of course I had my first bout of people telling me I sounded like I was from the North. Yep they were parents too. I take great honor in where I'm from and definitely was glad to hear I hadn't lost that simple touch of home. Apparently I say the word both funny as well. It took my coworkers about 4 times of me saying it to understand what I was saying and then we all laughed about it for a good 20 minutes. Don't think it stopped there though - a couple of days later it came up again and laughter ensued. Its good to feel loved. HAHA. I also have a tendency to say you all instead of y'all which undoubtedly gets caught to which most reply "what did you say?" I tried saying "you guys" but it just doesn't sound right at all when I talk with them. Its all too funny to me.
If ever anyone wants to come visit just let me know. I'm not technically all the way unpacked yet, but I will be soon enough.
I was chatting with some cohort friends and realized that I am in the best place for me. Laura talked of mountains and lakes and beautiful sunsets. As I told her that my life was surrounded with skyscrapers and traffic - I laughed. It sounds funny to say that I prefer where I am now to where Laura is in mountains. There is just something about the architecture of the buildings and the craziness of the driving that makes me love this place. Maybe its the work that I'm doing, the students/parents that I interact with or the place I am living (free Starbucks 24/7) but I am making this place my home. I guess that's the most important thing.
As I was wrapping up on Friday I was contemplating what to do with my weekend. Its tough not knowing anyone and trying to explore the city. I decided that this would be my weekend of park hunting. And by that I mean I am going to check out the local parks. Piedmont park is like the central park of Atlanta I am told. So tomorrow (Sunday) I am going to go check it out. I am discovering more and more my inner "I". I am appreciative of the time I do have when I am with people, but I also enjoy my nights where I can sit on my balcony and reflect on the "newness" of my life. Its quite interesting the feeling that comes from being completely out of your element. My patients with people has grown greatly.
Oh the language. It cracks me up how many different dialects you can hear in one office when they are all technically from Georgia. Of course I had my first bout of people telling me I sounded like I was from the North. Yep they were parents too. I take great honor in where I'm from and definitely was glad to hear I hadn't lost that simple touch of home. Apparently I say the word both funny as well. It took my coworkers about 4 times of me saying it to understand what I was saying and then we all laughed about it for a good 20 minutes. Don't think it stopped there though - a couple of days later it came up again and laughter ensued. Its good to feel loved. HAHA. I also have a tendency to say you all instead of y'all which undoubtedly gets caught to which most reply "what did you say?" I tried saying "you guys" but it just doesn't sound right at all when I talk with them. Its all too funny to me.
If ever anyone wants to come visit just let me know. I'm not technically all the way unpacked yet, but I will be soon enough.
Monday, June 14, 2010
FIRST DAY!!!!!
Today was my very first day on the job. It started with a not so great night of sleep and ended with getting home past 9pm. Here's how it went down -
I had one minor freak out today when I thought I lost my keys before I even left my apartment. I seriously had a panic attack. I couldn't leave my apartment without them because there was no returning after I left my floor without my key (yes very safe). I had planned to leave my apartment by 7:45 even though I am about 5 minutes from my job and I wasn't supposed to be there until 8:30. Those of you who know me know this is not a far stretch at all to what I am normally like - very very punctual. Being on-time is for late people in my mind. So basically I said a bunch of mini prayers begging for help because I did NOT want to be late on my first day. Finally after retracing and retracing my steps I finally checked the last place ever I would leave my keys, on top of the washer, yes I know this is a very strange place to leave them, but that's where they were. Geez what a way to start the day.
The day itself was awesome. GSU has 2 overnight sessions for Incept unlike MSU which are all overnight sessions. This was the 2nd of those sessions this summer. So since I needed to learn a bunch I observed all day and met a bunch of really great people. GSU has an awesome rec center that I finally got to go inside of today. Its pretty sweet! The Inceptors also put on skits at the end of the day - serious skits that really bring to life the issues of sexual harassment, suicide/depression, and alcohol related incidents. I'm super happy to be apart of such a great team atmosphere and a place where they really already treat me like family. Although I do love my MSU family, I am happy to have a new family at GSU.
SOAR Leaders beware these Inceptors are giving you a run for your money.
All in all a great first day and I can't wait to get started tomorrow - lets just hope I don't lose my keys AGAIN.
Miss you all greatly. Oh and if you would like my address e-mail or call me and I would be happy to give it to you (bc I heart mail big bunches)
I had one minor freak out today when I thought I lost my keys before I even left my apartment. I seriously had a panic attack. I couldn't leave my apartment without them because there was no returning after I left my floor without my key (yes very safe). I had planned to leave my apartment by 7:45 even though I am about 5 minutes from my job and I wasn't supposed to be there until 8:30. Those of you who know me know this is not a far stretch at all to what I am normally like - very very punctual. Being on-time is for late people in my mind. So basically I said a bunch of mini prayers begging for help because I did NOT want to be late on my first day. Finally after retracing and retracing my steps I finally checked the last place ever I would leave my keys, on top of the washer, yes I know this is a very strange place to leave them, but that's where they were. Geez what a way to start the day.
The day itself was awesome. GSU has 2 overnight sessions for Incept unlike MSU which are all overnight sessions. This was the 2nd of those sessions this summer. So since I needed to learn a bunch I observed all day and met a bunch of really great people. GSU has an awesome rec center that I finally got to go inside of today. Its pretty sweet! The Inceptors also put on skits at the end of the day - serious skits that really bring to life the issues of sexual harassment, suicide/depression, and alcohol related incidents. I'm super happy to be apart of such a great team atmosphere and a place where they really already treat me like family. Although I do love my MSU family, I am happy to have a new family at GSU.
SOAR Leaders beware these Inceptors are giving you a run for your money.
All in all a great first day and I can't wait to get started tomorrow - lets just hope I don't lose my keys AGAIN.
Miss you all greatly. Oh and if you would like my address e-mail or call me and I would be happy to give it to you (bc I heart mail big bunches)
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Driving Adventure Part 2
We finally arrived in Atlanta at 2:30ish on Wednesday after being on the road for an obscene amount of time. During the last leg of the drive I got word from my new supervisor that he would be okay with me not starting until Monday. Whew. That was actually a big relief because I was wondering how in the heck I was going to make this all happen in just one day. When we finally got here I went in and they didn't have my paper quite ready yet, so we waited a bit. Then after waiting about 10 minutes they let me have my keys so that we could at least bring Rascal up to the apartment. This way he wouldn't have to stay in the car for so long - he was already scared out of his mind and wouldn't come out from behind the UHaul seat. I had to pull him out by his tail (NO I did not like doing this, but he had to come out). Finally we got him out and brought him up to my apartment. I set Rascals litter box down and let him out of his carrier and he jumped into his box and peed. Dad and I laughed because it was so funny. He knew exactly where to go. He had not gone to the bathroom the entire trip so I can about imagine that his bladder was super duper full. While in the apartment Dad took pictures on his phone (because we left my camera in the glove box of mom's car - back in Springfield) and he sent them to mom.
Finally we went down stairs and my paperwork was printed up. They had a printer error so it wasn't ready the first time. Then as I started to sign things she asked if I had my money orders - to which I said can't I just pay in check. She said we have to have it in Money Orders. Although I had not been told this I said I would have to go get them and she directed me to the nearby Publix (that's a grocery store). Dad and I stopped and ate at O'Trolleys and had some good Irish Pub style food. I had a Ruben and Dad had a wrap. Good food for sure - I think I will likely go there again sometime because it literally is 2 blocks away. We ventured to the Publix got my money orders and a wonderful shower curtain and headed back to get my keys and start moving in. It was about 5:45 when we returned to find that the doors were locked. I freaked out a bit since I had no where to go. But at about 6pm a lady returned from a tour and I began to sign my papers. Dad started moving stuff as I did this part - essentially just to get the ball rolling. Finally keys in had I headed out to help Dad with the moving.
The nearest elevator to my apartment is actually quite a little journey so it took much longer then anticipated to get unloaded. By the time I joined Dad to help unload he had taken two loads up and it didn't seem like there was a dent in the things we had to bring. It took us until almost dark before we decided to call it quits. I couldn't carry another thing. Dad was looking like he was in pain although he wouldn't admit to it. After figuring out what to do with the UHaul getting me some gas for my car and some Gatorade for ourselves we got back up to the apartment took showers and hit the sack. I almost didn't even take a shower because I fell asleep, but eventually I did. The next morning we finished unpacking everything - it felt amazing to have it all finally in my apartment. I just looked after everything and realized I have a long long long unpacking road ahead of me. Grrr...
Later that day I took Dad to see some of campus and then to the airport. It was super sad watching him walk through the security checkpoint. I really am going to miss being in the Midwest and so far away from my family. After leaving him that day I wasn't sure what else to do with my life. I unpacked some more then checked my million and one e-mails. I forgot about how crazy my e-mails would be after a couple of days not checking. Then I crashed. I woke up every other hour to check on dad because he was driving back to Sioux City after flying to Branson. Thank you again to Andy for picking him up from the Btown Airport. He arrived safely back in Sioux City right before the big storms happened. This whole trip has been an adventure. Its been fun and crazy and emotional and rewarding. I love and miss my family big bunches.
Finally we went down stairs and my paperwork was printed up. They had a printer error so it wasn't ready the first time. Then as I started to sign things she asked if I had my money orders - to which I said can't I just pay in check. She said we have to have it in Money Orders. Although I had not been told this I said I would have to go get them and she directed me to the nearby Publix (that's a grocery store). Dad and I stopped and ate at O'Trolleys and had some good Irish Pub style food. I had a Ruben and Dad had a wrap. Good food for sure - I think I will likely go there again sometime because it literally is 2 blocks away. We ventured to the Publix got my money orders and a wonderful shower curtain and headed back to get my keys and start moving in. It was about 5:45 when we returned to find that the doors were locked. I freaked out a bit since I had no where to go. But at about 6pm a lady returned from a tour and I began to sign my papers. Dad started moving stuff as I did this part - essentially just to get the ball rolling. Finally keys in had I headed out to help Dad with the moving.
The nearest elevator to my apartment is actually quite a little journey so it took much longer then anticipated to get unloaded. By the time I joined Dad to help unload he had taken two loads up and it didn't seem like there was a dent in the things we had to bring. It took us until almost dark before we decided to call it quits. I couldn't carry another thing. Dad was looking like he was in pain although he wouldn't admit to it. After figuring out what to do with the UHaul getting me some gas for my car and some Gatorade for ourselves we got back up to the apartment took showers and hit the sack. I almost didn't even take a shower because I fell asleep, but eventually I did. The next morning we finished unpacking everything - it felt amazing to have it all finally in my apartment. I just looked after everything and realized I have a long long long unpacking road ahead of me. Grrr...
Later that day I took Dad to see some of campus and then to the airport. It was super sad watching him walk through the security checkpoint. I really am going to miss being in the Midwest and so far away from my family. After leaving him that day I wasn't sure what else to do with my life. I unpacked some more then checked my million and one e-mails. I forgot about how crazy my e-mails would be after a couple of days not checking. Then I crashed. I woke up every other hour to check on dad because he was driving back to Sioux City after flying to Branson. Thank you again to Andy for picking him up from the Btown Airport. He arrived safely back in Sioux City right before the big storms happened. This whole trip has been an adventure. Its been fun and crazy and emotional and rewarding. I love and miss my family big bunches.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Driving Adventure Part 1
What a long day yesterday (Wednesday) was for my dad and I. We left Sioux City around 3:30pm and headed to Springfield. I drove this leg of the trip which is roughly 7 hours. No big deal at all. My dad took a couple short naps so I just jammed out to come tunes and enjoyed the last time I will make that trip from SC to Springfield - at least for a very long time. We arrived in Springfield around 10:30ish. At this point I am a little tired since we both had been up super early - me since about 8am, Dad since about 6am. Already that is a long day, but we were just getting started. We grabbed the rest of the stuff from my apartment and loaded up the truck with any of the "extras" that we needed. Rascal was not ready to go and fought me just to get in his carrier. He was not okay with this trip at all - at least not for about 1/4 of the drive.
We left Springfield around 11:15pm. Filled up on gas before we left and headed down the road with my car being pulled behind the 17' UHaul. This was to be a very long and tiring trip - I still am astonished that we did it. Driving through Missouri was not so bad - Dad and I talked about the different Missouri State campuses and the random little towns that were on the road. I took about a 45 minute nap through Missouri and Arkansas. Yes only 45 minutes because Rascal kept waking me up I could really rest properly. We stopped for gas and a bathroom breaks along the way. For as heavy a load we were towing I am surrprised that I we got as good of mileage. Rascal finally calmed down after the first couple hours and went under the seat to sleep/hide. There was no one on the road - its was amazing that no one else was traveling. I mean it was really really early in the morning, but it was still crazy.
My mom called and check on us multiple times including a time at 12:30am and 3am. When she called at 12:30 she just wanted to talk to dad because she said she couldn't sleep without doing so - this is what I want. I want to be so in love with my husband that I can't sleep without hearing his voice. I love my family and this is one reason I am so family oriented - there is just always so much love. My dad and I were so lucky and are thankful for the continued thoughts and prayers that got us through this trip, we could not have done it without everyone's support.
I took over driving for a bit right before Memphis and drove part of the way into Mississippi and then I started getting totally tired and had to pull off. I know that Dad didn't get as much sleep as he needed during that time, but I could not safely drive any longer. He gladly took the wheel for me with no complaints at all. If I remember correctly he said "I got some juice left." Meaning he had some energy to drive longer. It is a true testament to how tough and amazing of a man my dad is. I am so blessed to have him in my life. (I am sure I will type this very sentence multiple times before trip blog is finished)
Yes I drove through Memphis - I did not stop to see Mana as it was early in the morning and we were on a tight schedule. Sorry Mana. We stopped for gas at one point and my dad must have forgot to turn his blinking light off. He was in the gas station and a gentleman riding a motorcycle stopped and talked to him. My family refers to the light on your forehead blinking "Tell me your story" if you get a random person telling you a crazy tale about their lives when there is really no reason to have a detailed conversation. Sometimes conversations are good and small talk is needed, but dads light was blinking just because someone wanted to talk and he got the short straw. I laughed for a long while about this one though because things like that rarely happen to my dad.
More driving and moving to come...
We left Springfield around 11:15pm. Filled up on gas before we left and headed down the road with my car being pulled behind the 17' UHaul. This was to be a very long and tiring trip - I still am astonished that we did it. Driving through Missouri was not so bad - Dad and I talked about the different Missouri State campuses and the random little towns that were on the road. I took about a 45 minute nap through Missouri and Arkansas. Yes only 45 minutes because Rascal kept waking me up I could really rest properly. We stopped for gas and a bathroom breaks along the way. For as heavy a load we were towing I am surrprised that I we got as good of mileage. Rascal finally calmed down after the first couple hours and went under the seat to sleep/hide. There was no one on the road - its was amazing that no one else was traveling. I mean it was really really early in the morning, but it was still crazy.
My mom called and check on us multiple times including a time at 12:30am and 3am. When she called at 12:30 she just wanted to talk to dad because she said she couldn't sleep without doing so - this is what I want. I want to be so in love with my husband that I can't sleep without hearing his voice. I love my family and this is one reason I am so family oriented - there is just always so much love. My dad and I were so lucky and are thankful for the continued thoughts and prayers that got us through this trip, we could not have done it without everyone's support.
I took over driving for a bit right before Memphis and drove part of the way into Mississippi and then I started getting totally tired and had to pull off. I know that Dad didn't get as much sleep as he needed during that time, but I could not safely drive any longer. He gladly took the wheel for me with no complaints at all. If I remember correctly he said "I got some juice left." Meaning he had some energy to drive longer. It is a true testament to how tough and amazing of a man my dad is. I am so blessed to have him in my life. (I am sure I will type this very sentence multiple times before trip blog is finished)
Yes I drove through Memphis - I did not stop to see Mana as it was early in the morning and we were on a tight schedule. Sorry Mana. We stopped for gas at one point and my dad must have forgot to turn his blinking light off. He was in the gas station and a gentleman riding a motorcycle stopped and talked to him. My family refers to the light on your forehead blinking "Tell me your story" if you get a random person telling you a crazy tale about their lives when there is really no reason to have a detailed conversation. Sometimes conversations are good and small talk is needed, but dads light was blinking just because someone wanted to talk and he got the short straw. I laughed for a long while about this one though because things like that rarely happen to my dad.
More driving and moving to come...
The begining of the trip (recap)
*I'm putting this travel adventure in a couple of different post since it is so long.
The beginning of the week was very difficult. We had a wonderful prayer service for my uncle full of all the wonderful memories we all have of him. On Tuesday we had the funeral - this was also difficult. My sister sang amazing grace at the funeral and I acted as a pallbearer. This was very emotional for me because of all those that could be chosen, Aunt Theresa wanted me to be one of them. Although the circumstances sucked it was good to see so much family, especially those I had not seen for a very long time. All of the cousins I rarely get to see were around and I was able to catch up with a lot of them. I just wish we could have come together for a much happier note. My littler cousins are all growing up so fast so I am happy that many of them still remember who I am or at least which family I belong to - in this family that's totally acceptable.
My uncle was an amazing man and as I continue my journey through my new job and life I will forever keep his laughter, humor, and peacemaker mentality alive in everything I do. I love you very much Uncle Dave and will miss you very much!!!!
The beginning of the week was very difficult. We had a wonderful prayer service for my uncle full of all the wonderful memories we all have of him. On Tuesday we had the funeral - this was also difficult. My sister sang amazing grace at the funeral and I acted as a pallbearer. This was very emotional for me because of all those that could be chosen, Aunt Theresa wanted me to be one of them. Although the circumstances sucked it was good to see so much family, especially those I had not seen for a very long time. All of the cousins I rarely get to see were around and I was able to catch up with a lot of them. I just wish we could have come together for a much happier note. My littler cousins are all growing up so fast so I am happy that many of them still remember who I am or at least which family I belong to - in this family that's totally acceptable.
My uncle was an amazing man and as I continue my journey through my new job and life I will forever keep his laughter, humor, and peacemaker mentality alive in everything I do. I love you very much Uncle Dave and will miss you very much!!!!
Friday, June 4, 2010
A day of turmoil and sadness
Yesterday (Saturday) was perhaps the hardest day I have had in a long time. I just wrote at the beginning of this blog that I am not a crier - yesterday I was. At roughly 3:30am my Mom called to let us know that my uncle (My dads brother) was in the ICU. At that time it was difficult to tell what was going to happen, but we made plans to do a whole lot of driving so that we could see him, and get me moved in on time. The plan was to drive to Sioux City, see everyone then drive back to Springfield Sunday and on to Atlanta - all so I could move in on Monday and start my career on Wednesday. In the early afternoon the call that he had passed on was received. On top of the rest of the stress of this move I now am at home in Sioux City, IA to be with my family. I am torn by what to do about my start date which is Wednesday. The funeral is on Tuesday and I am to serve as a pallbearer. My apartment sits in a 17 foot UHaul truck in Springfield waiting to make the 11 hour journey to Atlanta, my cat sits with no place to hide in my desolate apartment, and I am grieving. Needless to say, my moving plans are still under construction.
My uncle was the most amazing man. He had jokes for everything and always knew how to make an entire family that was fighting laugh it off. The last time I saw him was over Christmas break when my dad and I had lunch with him at Theo's (it was his 3rd time that week). It was after a recent treatment for his colon cancer and he was still a little weak (although he would not admit to it) - but don't think that stopped him from making jokes about my would be career in Student Affairs vs. being a Physician Assistant. Uncle Dave and Aunt Theresa have always been so supportive of me and my envedors in life - a role they did not have to take at all. See Uncle Dave is my step-dads brother, but since my mom and dad got married I was one family. I appreciate greatly the time I was able to spend with him and know that he is in a much better place then we could offer him here. Last night as we drove in to Sioux City, my dad and I were talking about the clouds and he made a comment that rings true, "He has a much better view of them (the clouds) now, doesn't he?" That he does for sure.
Thank you all for your continued support for me and my family.
The adventure begins
Today is the start and end of many things. The start to moving (which will take roughly 4 days from start to finish). The beginning of my dislike for some peoples attitudes. The end of my time at Missouri State University. The start to a new life outside of the Midwest. This is scary to think about...okay not so scary.
I dealt with Georgia Power today and that was definitely an adventure. It was one of those moments that on top of all the other stressful things happening was the straw that broke the camels back. For this first time since this all began, I was almost in tears. Keep in mind I am always the last to cry even at very sad movies. *I didn't shed a tear during the notebook or blind side. Therefore it is very uncommon that things would get this emotional for me, but today was the culmination point and those tears almost broke through. No go though, def a no go. I held them back well and now all is good. Power will be turned on for MONDAY. yippee.
This week also included getting my final offer and approved for an apartment that I really love. (Even though a friend did not like it much) The apartment I will be living at includes a rooftop pool and great workout area. You can check it out at www.marquisvista.com.
Said "see ya later" today to wonderful SOAR leaders whom I have come to call my family. They really take great care of each other and I don't think there is another organization that can touch the relationships that develop during 2 months together. "See ya laters" we also in store for much the the student union staff. If I missed you I'm sorry. It was extremely heart wrenching to walk out the doors of the union, with all its memories, people, and vendors that I love. Its not that I don't think I will be back, because I know I will, but it will not be the same feeling that it is now. Now I can walk into the union say hi to the front desk working, chat with the blimpies folks, ride the elevator with someone I know, and go to an office filled with humor and uhh...productivity. That feeling will not be there when I return to visit, instead it will mark the legacy that I have left behind with those I have hopefully left a mark on.
Leaving is just not fun to do. Enough Said!
I dealt with Georgia Power today and that was definitely an adventure. It was one of those moments that on top of all the other stressful things happening was the straw that broke the camels back. For this first time since this all began, I was almost in tears. Keep in mind I am always the last to cry even at very sad movies. *I didn't shed a tear during the notebook or blind side. Therefore it is very uncommon that things would get this emotional for me, but today was the culmination point and those tears almost broke through. No go though, def a no go. I held them back well and now all is good. Power will be turned on for MONDAY. yippee.
This week also included getting my final offer and approved for an apartment that I really love. (Even though a friend did not like it much) The apartment I will be living at includes a rooftop pool and great workout area. You can check it out at www.marquisvista.com.
Said "see ya later" today to wonderful SOAR leaders whom I have come to call my family. They really take great care of each other and I don't think there is another organization that can touch the relationships that develop during 2 months together. "See ya laters" we also in store for much the the student union staff. If I missed you I'm sorry. It was extremely heart wrenching to walk out the doors of the union, with all its memories, people, and vendors that I love. Its not that I don't think I will be back, because I know I will, but it will not be the same feeling that it is now. Now I can walk into the union say hi to the front desk working, chat with the blimpies folks, ride the elevator with someone I know, and go to an office filled with humor and uhh...productivity. That feeling will not be there when I return to visit, instead it will mark the legacy that I have left behind with those I have hopefully left a mark on.
Leaving is just not fun to do. Enough Said!
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