It has seriously been too long since I've posted. And I keep saying that, don't I?
I should really stay on top of this thing.
Obviously the 6 months straight of daily posting did not pan out.
Turns out not every day needs to be written up in a blog. Most of mine would read: Went to work. Came home. Sat on couch. The end. Scintillating, right?

It's been so long since I've updated that I'm having trouble remembering all the things I need to update about.
Let's start with The List first. I did a few things that I can mark off. I did a big one that I wasn't sure I'd have the nerve or opportunity to do - I sang karaoke. Life Church had a karaoke night at Nicky's (a local Mexican restaurant) so a bunch of us decided to go. Rhiannon and I sang The Beatles' "Hey Jude." It was so much fun. Singing with someone was way better than trying to do it myself. By the end we had everyone singing along, though I think that has more to do with the fact that it's almost impossible to hear "Hey Jude" and not sing along. Seriously. Try it for yourself. Play that song and see if you're not Na-na-na-na-ing your little heart out by the end.
There is video of my brilliant karaoke debut, but I'm not posting it here. Most of you will have seen it on Facebook anyway.
So, there you have it. Number 87 on The List: check!

So far it looks like the highlight of my work day is going to be figuring out how to link all my passwords on the computer so I don't have to log in repeatedly. Which doesn't sound like a big deal, but I have to type in the password several times a day on several different screens. It's really a lot more convenient.

Still, as highlights go, it's a little sad, I guess.

In other way more exciting news, one week from today I'll be on my way to Florida! We are getting a headstart on Friday night and then heading to Pensacola to pick up Aunt Kathy and Courtney. And then on to the beach! Whoo-hoo!

Trying a new app on my phone to make blogging easier. (like it was so difficult before) So far, I'm liking it. It hasn't lost my in-progress posts, like the other [free] app I was using. This one was $1. And it's worth it.

Anyway.
I just registered for the PRAXIS exams that are required for the graduate program I'm trying to get in to. There are two parts and the total cost was about $255. Insane! I mean it's not just me, right? They can pretty much charge whatever they want, because they're the only company that administers the tests and the tests are required by every graduate program. That's some racket they've got going on there.

But it's required so I'll pay what they ask. The tests are one of my last steps required to get into the education Masters program at Tech.

Y'all. I had this whole post all typed up and the new app on my phone lost the whole thing. Booooo.

So. To start over [you can't see it but I'm giving my phone a dirty look]

It's been quite a while since I updated. I was really bust with all my classes, especially there at the end. Taking a full load of classes while working full time might not have been my best idea, but it worked! I got all A's for the semester and the 4.0 GPA brought up my overall GPA enough that I can get into the graduate program and get financial aid with no trouble. So. Woot! Now I don't have to take classes this summer. They were going to be some random classes, too -I mean, Medical Terminology? But it was available online during the early session. Of course, now I don't have to worry about it. Now I have to worry about the 3 exams I have to take to get into graduate program. There's the PRAXIS - which is a test I have to take on the Subject I want to teach. And of course Social Studies has 2 parts. It's the only one with 2 tests. Of course. I'm not too worried about that. After all, it's a test on a subject I'm interested in. The one that worries me is the GRE. And it worries me quite a bit. Seriously. It has math questions! Analytic geometry! That's just unnecessary.

Man, I love Fridays. It's my day off work an my free day on WW. (this is not a coincidence) So I get to sleep in and lounge around in the morning. And then Mama and I go eat (this generally involves quite a few carbs for me) Then we do the weekly shopping at Walmart. Occassionally there's a movie. Then Starbucks. And home to do homework. And then we end the night watching a movie or TV on DVD and doing manicures. It's an awesome day.

So now the homework is done, my new Leverage DVD is in and the nails are ready to be polished.

It's been a good day, yo.

I'm tired. For real.



For. Real.

This counts as a blog post right? This daily posting thing is harder than it looks.

So, I got all dressed up today. Sort of. Not really. I just wore something other than jeans and used the InStyler on my hair. People were really impressed and it took like 5 extra minutes. Maybe I should think about doing that more often. Not the jeans part. I love my jeans. And khakis. And any pants that aren't the ones I wore today.

I found out today that my old team (the one I was switched off of back in January) is losing their manager. He's moving to a different department. So they're either getting a new manager or being split up onto other teams. I would have moved teams anyway, and I might not have gotten my current manager, who is really great. It's so nice when things work out well. (for me, I mean. I can't say the same for my former teammates)

There is one manager that no one in the entire center wants to be on her team. I feel kind of bad. My one goal in life is to never ever be that person. You know, the one that everyone makes that "sucks to be you"  face when they hear you have to work with her.

Ugh. Work. Ugghhh. So the good news today was that I got an hour off the phone for a class on how to navigate the career site for company employees. The bad news: I don't actually plan on staying with the company, so I don't care if they're hiring line installers in Houston. Still, an hour off the phone is always a good thing. Tomorrow is "Dress for Success!" day. Which means we're supposed to dress like we would for an interview. The original idea was to wear what we wore for our own interview but when we pointed out that every single one of us had a phone interview, and most of us were in our pajamas at the time (hello, we were unemployed) that idea was quickly changed. Usually I don't bother with the theme days, but the other day the girl who sits in front of me asked if I always "dressed like that." Which, to be fair, I wear tshirts and jeans and always pull my hair back because I'm usually running late in the mornings. And she wasn't trying to be rude ... it just turned out that way. So tomorrow I'll be making an effort. Just this once though. I mean, it's a call center - what do they care what I'm wearing? As long as I'm clean and not all slobby, I just don't feel the need to dress up.

Well. I feel awful. I'm going to bed early. Why does going to be bed early never feel as good as sleeping in? This week is career week at work. I was hoping people with cool professions would come in and talk to us, like in elementary school, but no. Apparently we're supposed to think we have the cool job.  ...Right. Tomorrow is a "mentoring session" about our futures. Just one manager and 26 people. Nothing like a little one on one time.

Sunday!
It's so hot! The A/C isn't working at full power. So it's hot and humid inside. Even with the fans pointed directly at me, I'm sweltering.

Hoooooottttttt.

Starting my new Saturday schedule. No more night shift! I got to sleep in a little, but got off before midnight. Always a good thing.

Well. That's about it.

Friday! Spent the day with Mom. We saw Arthur, which I loved. I really liked the original. And it wasn't crude at all, which was surprising since Russell Brand was the star. Mostly I just really liked Helen Mirren. (as per usual) Then we walked around Sam's. Do they make a commission on those samples? Because they push those things hard. Ease up with the granola, lady. I'm just here for a 6 pound box of spaghetti noodies.

Thursday! Which is like my Friday. (since Friday is my day off. ...so that makes it my Saturday. That was more trouble to explain than anticipated.) Time seems to just limp along on Thursday. Though I have been getting more friendly with my team lately. They think it's hilarious that I just sit quietly. I never really thought of myself as a quiet person, but I guess I am.

Tomorrow is my weekly girls day out with my mom. It's both of our free day on WW, so we usually go eat. And Starbucks is involved at some point. Tomorrow we'll be seeing Arthur. I love the original, so I'm looking forward to this. I know it won't be the same - no one can replace Dudley Moore. But it has Helen Mirren, who's my favorite. I want to be like her when I grow up. Mostly her character in RED. (without the contract killing, preferably)

I'll also be working on going through my clothese and getting rid of anything that's sloppy or doesn't fit right. I want to stop look so slobby. Mostly it's at work, but I think I could be making a better impression. It's also on the The List. Number 42. Buy only clothes that make you feel like fabulous and stylish. (or at least like an adult.
It's a work in progress.

So. Remember that big project that I talked about yesterday? The one I was working on all the time because it was due today. Turns out: due next week. There was a misprint on the website. Awesome. Even better? There was a test for today. Luckily it's an online class, so everything is open book. I took it on time, and did pretty well I think. I won't know for sure until she posts the grades. So, yeah. Worked and worked and worked on a paper that's not due for a week. At least I'm ahead of the game.

You know, I missed Top Chef All Stars Reunion to work on this. I'm just saying.

The Demon class (hehehehe) is going to be great, I think. As soon as we're all caught up. (Notice how I did NOT say "on the same page." I resist puns)

Okay. This daily posting thing is super hard at the end of the semester when all the final projects come due. (Shh. Don't tell anyone, but I'm back-dating this entry. It's not really Tuesday)

I've got a big project due on Wednesday for my art class. I usually do art homework after church on Wednesday, but this week I have to do the class on Demon: A Memoir. (or the Demon class, as I call it) So, I've been working on this crazy project for Fine Arts. The assignment boils down to: "Compare and Contrast these totally different paintings. Seriously, they're not anything alike. So, good luck making something up." Alright. Maybe that wasn't the exact wording, but it's the gist. So, I've been working on this project all the time, even on lunch. Making stuff up is time consuming.

I really really want this sweater.Really. Really. I don't know why I want it so much, but I just like it. Festive, dontchathink?

I've been trying to dress in things other than just tshirts and jeans. Not that I mind tshirts and jeans. Just trying to expand my horizons. Even though I know I'll probably always come back to tshirts and jeans.





I have acquired a new beach towel! Now I just need a beach so I can use it. Just 55 more days! WHOO!

Now. I have to get to work on sorting my clothes. Everything is in bins. Not a good look. But it's an efficient way to sort through everything.

Also: WHY have I not been watching Leverage for the past few years? It's hilarious and very clever.

Just worked my last late shift on a Saturday!  (for the next month, anyway) Yay! I'll miss sleeping in, but I'll be glad to get off at 7pm instead of 11:30pm.

Now it's my nightly Golden Girls viewing. I really wish they'd play Designing Women every once in a while. I prefer Julia and MaryAnne to any of the Girls.

I hate April Fool's Day. It's a day of lies.

Anyway. I'm glad it's over.
I had a great day anyway. Lunch at Logan's then wandering around WalMart. Then homework, which was not so great. But it's done now. And now I'm going to watch Tangled and paint my fingernails.

Another exciting night of watching The Golden Girls. Party. On.

Tomorrow I'll be starting a new month of NaBloPoMo (National Blog Posting Month). Posting every day for a month. I can't promise it'll be interesting, but I can promise they'll be there.

So.

Yep.

Another late shift at work. I sincerely I get an earlier shift on Saturdays next month.

I really should get to bed, but I've only just now got home and I'm wide awake. So. I'm just going to hang out and watch reruns of The Golden Girls. I just wish they'd show reruns of Designing Women every once in a while, instead of 25 episodes of The Golden Girls followed by The Nanny.

Okay. Time to get back to the daily posting thing. I won't be able to mark it off The List, otherwise.

Things are pretty much the same as last time I posted. I've been working on school work most of the time. I had a meeting yesterday with the Graduate School at Tech. It's mandatory for all applicants. Too bad they didn't let me know it was cancelled before I drove to Ruston. But it's fine. They counted it as my attending a meeting and I didn't have to actually sit through a meeting where they read stuff I've already researched on the Internet. The info packet was literally pages printed off the website. I can do that on my own, thanks.

Now I just have to schedule the Praxis for the end of April and the GRE sometime in May or June. I'm not too concerned with the Praxis because it's subject matter only - and I'm doing History. No big deal. But the GRE includes a large scary math portion which is, as stated, both large and scary. It may have to wait until after a visit to Colorado.

Okaym my homework is done, excercise is done, laundry is done. And Charlie Sheen is out of his coked up mind. Typical Monday.

UGH. it is so hot. How is it this hot in February? Insanity.

Ugh. Turns out NaBloPoMo takes the fun out of blogging. On one hand, I'd probably just forget about this thing if I didn't have to do it every day. On the other hand, forcing myself to blog every single day regardless of whether it's noteworthy is totally harshing my mellow. And it's no fun to read. As I'm sure you've discovered on your own.

And now. I'm off to try to figure out how to use my new InStyler. I could just watch the DVD but that would just take all the fun (and possibility of burning myself) out of it. I like a little danger in my life.

Took a picture right after that crazy rainstorm earlier today.

My instagram makes pictures awesome!
Good news is I'm getting along with my team at work much better now. I guess it's just took a little time to get to know them. Also, it probably helped that the girl who sits behind me wasn't there. She's a little loud.
Day off tomorrow! Whoo!

Oh, homework. Why is there so much of you? Will I ever get to go to bed early? I didn't even get to start looking at the list of things to see in London. That's right, folks. I am a future world traveller. I and my fellow Future World Traveller, Courtney are going to London and Paris in summer 2012. Let the list writing begin!

ugh. Monday. Boo. I did get back on the trampoline today though. Time to get back in the habit of doing it every day and now just every other day. Soon I guess I'll need to go up to twice a day.

Awesome times were had hanging out tonight. I'm really enjoying watching Community. I don't know why I haven't been watching it from the beginning.

I really have nothing to say but I have to blog every day thanks to The List. So. There you go.

Well. Today was awesome.

I got a great haircut that was exactly what I asked for. She also showed me the InStyler, which worked fantastically on my hair. The stylist has fine straight hair like mine so she knew how hard it is to get that type of hair to do anything. The InStyler thing she used added shine and body in like 5 minutes. With no hairspray or product. Awesome. I'm buying one right now. Four easy payments on QVC.
Also. My bangs are really cute.

Then came lunch at Olive Garden. Delicious. Followed by shopping and Starbucks.

And we just finished watching another episode of Firefly. Such a great day.

Free day tomorrow! That means weigh in today. I lost 1 pound. Which brings the total to 10. Not as fast as that first week, but at least I'm still going in the right direction. Add in the fact that this week I felt tired and hormonal and mostly spent all my time hanging out on the couch with the heating pad, and I think losing 1 pound is pretty good.

Also: Haircut tomorrow! nothing crazy. Just a trim. I'm going to the same place as I did last time, but I'll be getting a different stylist. Seriously. Even if I have to be rude. Or, okay, slightly less than friendly. Last time I walked out the door looking like I was wearing a motorcycle helmet. Awful. I cried when I got home. This time I'm trying to emphasize the fact that I'm getting a trim. Trim.


Trim.

Just finished another quiz for Fine Arts. At least this one was just my opinion on certain pictures in the textbook. Now that I can fake my way through. ...I think. I guess we'll find out. I'm watching Top Chef (as I did last week.) I hate that it's pitting two of my favorites against each other. But I'm not surprised about who is going home. I forgot he was on the show until he showed up on camera. Like while watching the episode I'd forget him from scene to scene. But he was classy about leaving. Not like others (I'm looking at you, Jen and Marcel.) I think this was a really fun challenge - they got to go to Target in the middle of the night and run around finding ingredients and tools, and then cook for the early shift. It looked like lots of fun. Next week! Paula Deen! And people who were kicked off return! Boom.

So. I know I'm a few days late. But can we take a minute to revel in the lunacy that is this:

That, as I'm sure you know, is Lady GaGa. In an egg. Which is cracked enough already. (heh, cracked. Get it?) Today she said she stayed in there for 72 hours. I'm not even going to touch that one. I just wonder why people feel the need to resort to such publicity stunts. If your music is good enough shouldn't it gain attention on it's own.    ...maybe I just answered my own question there.

I should be working out on my mini-trampoline (Bert) right now. But I feel kind of hit-by-a-truck-ish. And it's been a kind of terrible day. Somewhere in the middle a customer called me stupid. So. Now I'm watching reruns of the The Golden Girls and eating Rice Krispies.
My hair is a mess. I'm positive I washed my hair this morning, but I'm pretty sure I accidentally doubled up on conditioner. Now my hair is really soft, but looks like I slicked it down with gel. Not a great look for me. Or anyone, really.

I just saw a commercial for a third Big Momma movie. You know, the ones where Martin Lawrence dresses as a woman who says the craziest things? (as opposed to the ones where Tyler Perry dresses as a woman who says the craziest things.) I can't believe there's a third one. Well. Actually I couldn't believe there was a second one. I'm just feeling sad for Martin Lawrence now.

Ugh. Mondays. Ugh. Valentine's Day. Ugh. Sap.
Plus side: four separate people gave me candy. Sometimes it's worth having to listen to the crazy things my coworkers say all day.

Why yes that is a Fun Dip.
I need to start blogging during the day. Because I always come up with fun and witty things to say, but I forget them by the time I get home. I think I'm being spoiled by my iPhone (alright, I know I am) because I'm always incredibly put out if there's no app for what I want to do. I want a Blogger app. But there isn't one. I don't know why I feel like an app would be easier than just updating by text or email.

Okay. Last thought of the day: Life needs more random synchronized dancing. Why does Ferris Bueller get away with it and we don't? Discuss. (Don't really discuss Ferris Bueller. I know he's a fictional character)

Once again working the late shift on Saturday has cramped my blogging flow. I'm so tired and I have to get up early to go to church. And tomorrow: pot roast and Psych with The Murray Family Four. (patent pending)

Had an awesome time today. I haven't had a chance to hang out in a while. Having friends is awesome, isn't it? It's nice to have conversations face to face instead of through comments on facebook. Back to work tomorrow, so I should be asleep right now. But I'm wide awake, of course.

So. I have officially caught the Bieber Fever. I saw the movie tonight. And now I'm totally sold. I want a t-shirt. Possibly a poster. Definitely some purple shoes.
I admit I wasn't really a fan before the movie. I liked him, but didn't get the big deal. I was mostly going because Rhiannon wanted to go, and I like to encourage dorky tendencies in my friends. Also, I was just so curious about what goes on in a Bieber movie. Curiosity gets me into some strange places. Like Old Navy at midnight on Black Friday. (come to think of it, that was with Rhiannon too)

It wasn't even the music that I liked (but it is really catchy); what I really liked was that the movie wasn't all about how awesome he was. But it was about how hard he worked and how he never said never gave up faith that he could do it. And his family was really supportive of everything. I liked that he has this huge platform and he's using to tell his fans that if they too work hard and believe, they can make their dreams come true. There was a theatre in his hometown that he would sing in front of before he got famous. It was just him and an acoustic guitar. When he went back after he was famous he passed a young girl playing her violin in the same spot, and took the time to go tell her about how he used to play in that exact same spot. And that if she never gave up she could make it too. I think there's something admirable about that.

I also like that his lyrics are all about treating girls with respect. In a world where most celebrities are encouraging self destructive behavior, it's a welcome change. It's also a nice change to hear a male singer tell a girl that he wants to treat her right, instead of what he wants to do to her body. And it's kind of a shame that it's a 16 year old and not a grown man.

So. There you go. That's my story of how I became a fan of Justin Bieber.

Today I am totally bummed that Friends is not available on Netflix Instant. I'd really like to watch some reruns right now. Maybe I'll just get a head start on sleeping in.

Almost forgot! Today was weigh-in day and I lost another 2 pounds! Woot! That brings me up to around 9 for the month. Which, according the Weight Watcher's site is good. Losing too fast is apparently not a good idea.

I'm seriously ready for bed but I'm trying to wait for Carla from Top Chef to be on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon. Go Team Carla!

I just finished an exam in Fine Arts that took twice as long as anticipated. So now my brain is mush. Mushy brains do not make for good blogging. As I'm sure you've noticed.

Feeling really tired and run down tonight, so I'm probably not going to have a lot to say. I still did my trampoline time though. And yes, I did yell "TOWANDA!" Well, I tried to yell it, but I was bouncing and kind of out of breath. So technically I might have wheezed Towanda! but it's the thought that counts.

Okay. I'm seriously tired and I was trying to go to bed early. Too late for that apparently.

30 minutes on a mini-trampoline. Slowly working my way up! And as my endurance goes up, I'll start looking at other work outs, like on DVD or in a gym. Let's be honest: it'll probably be on DVD. I have that whole aversion to sweating (and jiggling) in public. Until then I think I need to get weights so I'll have something for my hands to do while on the trampoline.

In other news, Today made 2 weeks at my new desk. It's still like a totally new world. There's conversations I just don't understand. It's a little fascinating and mostly confusing. But at least the days go by fast. I'm just counting down the time until May. Because in my world May = Florida. And Florida = awesome. Therefore, May = Awesome. Boom. Transitive property.

After re-reading that last statement I've realized it's past time for bed.

Apparently today was Superbowl? I wasn't really paying attention. I was in theory rooting for Green Bay only because I like the practice of wearing giant wedges of cheese on your head. This is how I choose sports teams to support. Because that's just the way I roll. I spent the afternoon watching Firefly with my mom. It was awesome. (of course it was, it was Firefly) But it did mean that I missed all the commercials. So I'll be watching them online. First? The Bieber/Osbourne ad. I thought it was pretty funny. Bieber seems able to laugh at himself, which is always prefered over taking yourself to seriously when your job involves wearing tight pants and synchronized dancing. (I'm looking at you NKOTB)

I've officially added excercise to the whole counting points routine. And I really like my little mini-trampoline. As per usual, it has been named. His name is Bert. We're very close. I'm up to 20 minutes. Which may not seem like but, but when you take into account that the most physical I had previously was walking in from the parking lot at the store, it's slightly more impressive.

Okay. Just a quick blog tonight because I worked the late shift an only just got home. But I have to post today otherwise NaBloPoMo is out. So. Instead of post we're going to have a little current events and geography lesson.


see more funny videos

What's wrong with this picture? Hint: Look between Syria and Iran.
Failblog makes my day yet again.

Snow day! Well. Not really. The office wasn't closed or anything. But it was my day off. And there was snow. So we treated it like a snow day. I got to sleep in all warm and cozy under my blankets. And then watch a Top Chef marathon (go Team Carla!) while relaxing on the couch. Then this afternoon Mama and I ventured forth in search of donuts. She was nice enough to drive me. (Mostly because it keeps her from worrying about me driving by myself. But also because she's just nice.) The closest Southern Maid was closed, so we went to the one on Hearne. And while we were there we realized there was an El Chico's (my favorite!) just down the road. It would be remiss of us not stop! So we did, and it was delicious.

Then we stopped at Walmart, and I picked up a mini-trampoline (among other things) so now I'm ready to add excercise to the weight watchers thing so I can do more than just hold steady. I am going to be ready so Courtney and I can take London by storm in summer 2012!
Also, I learned a very important lesson about waiting a significant time between eating and bouncing. My insides felt all jostled. Not a great feeling.

my new hat! I work it on our adventure in the snow

My new mini-trampoline

Weekly Check-In! Today makes 3 weeks on Weight Watchers. I stayed the same this week. Which is okay, but just means that now that I have the food part down, I should probably add some physical activity. I don't even climb the stairs anymore since I was moved downstairs. I had a bit of a scare earlier as I was weighing. I thought I'd gained 3 points until I realized I was still wearing my jeans, instead of my pajamas like I normally do. I nearly cried! Fighting off all those munchies and cravings just to gain 3 pounds! But it was okay, because it was just the jeans.
I think tomorrow I'm going to buy a mini-trampoline to excercise. I've really enjoyed it in the past.

In other news: It is seriously cold. Everywhere. A woman in Miami told me they were experiencing a cold snap too. It had gotten down to 63 degrees. The horror. The schools are all out for a snow day tomorrow, but my office never closes. There was a pipe burst last week and they still didn't close. Luckily I'm off tomorrow anyway so I can finally stay in my warm bed instead of making myself get up. Though it'll be just my luck that the office declares a snowday on my day off.
The good news is thanks to the cold I have completed an item on The List: 85. Find a hat that you can wear without feeling like an idiot.
I thought I had found one before, and technically I did. I have a slouchy beret kind of thing that I can wear without feeling stupid, but my new hat I really like. It also stays on my head and I don't have to fight with it all the time. Maybe I'll have a picture of it to post tomorrow.

Here's a picture for tonight.

Okay! This is just going to be a quick post, because somehow time got away from me and I should've been in bed a while ago.
Today I did the math and if I did it right, then even if I ace all 4 classes I'm taking this semester I will be .02 of a point away from my necessary GPA. I was upset at first, because it's less than a month in and I'm already working pretty hard. And if I manage to get straight A's it still won't be enough. But! Now I know it'll work out. If they don't round up, (which they should, I mean come ON) then hopefully my scores on the GRE test and the PRAXIS test will make them overlook that .02 point. And even if they don't take the scores into consideration then I'll take an online class during the summer to make up the difference. I can take a class and send in my transcripts by August 1st with no trouble.

So. That just means that I have to work really hard and get all A's. On 4 classes. While working full time.
Piece of cake.


I'm going to deserve that vacation this summer.

My toes have been freezing all day. I was not expecting the torrential downpour this morning and my socks got all wet. So I took them off, but didn't have any replacements. Finally my feet are warming up. The rest of me is being warmed up by coffee. I just drank a rather large mug of coffee and yet will still have no trouble going to sleep in a minute. Clearly, I'm immune.

I said this on Facebook earlier, but Google Calendars might be the only reason I make it out of this semester with my brain in tact. There's just so many things to do - discussion posts, quizzes, two separate classes each have some kind of compare and contrast thing going on. I keep getting Anthropology and Humanities mixed up. Add in Fine Arts and History and it all starts running together. So thanks to Google Calendars every morning at 5 am I get a color-coded email telling me what's due today. Then I refer to my handy planner for details. This whole organized thing is all very out of character. But I refuse to get behind! I have already been fantasizing about handing in my 2 weeks notice! And that can't possibly happen for at least 6 months. It's such a nice thought though.
In fact, I think I'll go think on that for a while before bed.

This makes post 1 of month 2 of NaBloPoMo

This officially makes one month of blogging every day. So that's one month of NaBloPoMo down. Five more to go.
Today was pretty good (for a Monday). Work went by quickly and I only heard a few slightly weird things from my coworkers. The team spent most of today talking about the size of braids they preferred to wear. There are some really, really (really) strange names for braids. I don't even want to talk about it. And the girl who sits in front of me spent 5 minutes explaining in vivid detail a rash to what I can only hope was a medical professional on the other end. My skin itched for the rest of the day just thinking about it. And yes, this is the kind of stuff that passes for slightly weird with my new team.

The rest of the evening was really kind of awesome. I had Starbucks and watched Antiques Roadshow. I love that show. It's so fun to watch people's faces. And I really enjoy hearing about the history behind each object. I tried to watch another antiques related show - American Pickers. Its about 2 guys that travel the country and buy antiques from people and then take it back to their shop where they sell. Sounds interesting enough. Until I realized that they'd talk people down and then go back and sell it for 3 or 4 times the price. I know it's just business but it seems pretty shady to me. If you're going to sell a bike for $5000, you can give the guy who found it more than $1000. This probably shows why I could never run a business. I prefer Antiques Roadshow where they give you an honest assessment, and don't downplay what it's worth just to buy it from you and turn around and sell it for 400% profit.
It's admittedly a pretty naïve outlook, but I'm okay with that.

Today was a very relaxing day. I went to church (arrived on time, thank you very much) and really enjoyed every part of it. The worship team leader was out of town, and instead of having one person take over as leader, each of the team members led songs, and prayed before the songs. It was great. It's always nice to be reminded how talented your friends are. The sermon was great as well. Very thought provoking. I liked the question Pastor Scott put forth that though we say we trust God, can we say that He trusts us? (that is, trusts us to care for people as He cares for them, and work to carry out His word)

And then I napped! I love Sunday afternoon naps. Then dinner while watching The Closer with my mom. I love that show. We are working our way through all the seasons. It's so much more enjoyable when you have someone to watch the shows with.

Back to work tomorrow, on a new schedule. I start an hour earlier this month, while still working the late shift on Saturdays. That gives me one more hour before the reset of my team comes in, so hopefully I'll be able to get more studying done while it's quiet. That is, if we're all back at our assigned desks instead of crowded on the second floor.

I'm really kind of glad this day is over. I work the late shift on Saturdays, so I showed up at work just in time to walk in on the end of a fire drill. And by walk in, I mean literally walk in. I went in the side entrance I normally used and all the fire alarms were going off. Um, why wasn't that entrance blocked? Hopefully if it had been a real emergency someone would think to cover all the entrances. Then I found that the entire first floor was shut down, so everyone would be sitting on the second floor. I had to try 3 different desks before I found one that would work. And it was covered in dust (and hair) so I had to clean it first. And it was covered in little statues bearing things like The Lord's Prayer and different scriptures. Located right in front of that were 2 books with titles like The B**** Is Back.  I have to admit I looked through them. My eye is still twitching. I'm so confused, and I think she was too.

First week of a new team, and I am feeling distinctly out of place. On my old team I felt like just that - a member of a team. We didn't always get along, but it was comfortable to sit with them for 8 hours (or more) a day. But on my new team I haven't found my groove yet. I don't have a lot in common with any of my team members, and I'm kind of isolated because of where my desk is positioned. It doesn't help that my manager has decided that since I'm quiet I must be "the good one." So now they think I'm really dedicated to my work, or something. And that is just laughable. Sure I want to do a good job, but mostly because it makes my life easier if I'm not always having to have "job performance discussions." My manager also mentioned that she would be on vacation for the first week of March, and after everyone started joking about slacking off she said "Amanda will tell me what y'all did." Um. What? I'm just trying to mind my own business, not anyoneelse's. I will go all Sergeant Schultz in a heartbeat.

The good news is I get a lot of reading done for school. And soon when I start studying for the GRE and PRAXIS II, I'll be able to concentrate without trying to be sociable.

For those unsure about the Sergeant Schultz reference:

Not going to write much tonight so I can go to bed early. Woot! I'm exhausted today and not sure why. I'm getting the same amount of sleep on average, but some days I'm more tired than others. Part of it is probably because since I've switched to diet drinks I drink less soda, and therefore less caffeine.

It's also time for my weekly check-in on Weight Watchers. Today makes 2 weeks. I lost one pound this week. Which doesn't sound like much, but after losing 6 last week I was prepared not to lose as much this week. According to the program, a healthy rate is 5 pounds every 2 weeks. So I'm doing well, I'd say. And all this before I've added regular exercise.

I'm also excited because things are starting to come together for graduate school. I had to do a whole lot of waiting and now everything feels like it's happening at once. Or at least between now and May. If I get everything settled with admissions before the end of May I can relax all summer, aside from work anyway. But let's face it, if you know you'll be leaving a job soon you don't exactly have to horde vacation time and sick days anymore.

Spent my day doing some more painting at the Food Pantry. This time it was a nice pale yellow shade. The ceiling needed to be painted in this area so I soon had splatters of paint everywhere. I felt fine at the time, but of course now all those under-used muscle groups have decided to show their displeasure. It was a really good upper body workout, but now my arms are feeling a little noodle-y. And I just hurt myself sneezing because the muscles in my neck and chest are so sore.

Being covered in splatters of yellow paint didn't stop me from going through the Starbucks drive-through. The girl working the window guessed paint-balling, which would've been a better story. Though I'd probably be in way more pain now.

I've decided to count all the painting and stuff as #27 on The List, which is Find a cause I believe in and actively participate. (donate time and money)I think all the painting counts as active participation. And I know I'll be helping set it up and occasionally helping when it opens. When your mom and step-dad run it, it's pretty much a given that you'll be involved. (at least in this family) Also, the company I work for encourages it's employees to give to the United Way. They have it set up where they will take money from your check and give it directly to the United Way. And then the United Way allows you to choose where your money goes if you have a preference. I chose the Northwest Louisiana Food Bank, which is where the church's Food Pantry gets stock. I think that should count as giving money to a cause I believe in.
 See? I did have point with all that rambling.

Also, speaking of The List, I can count #25 as done. I have attempted to donate blood 6 times in a row. I had to add the attempted because I was often turned down because of low iron levels. In this case I think it's the thought that counts.

Okay. Let me just start by asking do you have any idea how many things a knee can bump into or even just brush up against during a day? Lots, okay? Lots of things. Beginning and ending with pants legs. I learned this first hand today. The bruise has turned a lovely shade of purple, somewhere in the eggplant family. I'd post a picture but they don't really do it justice. And my legs are pasty white a lovely alabaster.

I'm feeling really tired and beat up, not only because I'm still sore from falling but also because I donated blood today. I like to give blood because it's an easy, quick way to feel like I'm helping. But there was a new girl. Which should really say it all, but you miss out on some funny jokes that way. So, she's new. And she's nervous. And she's trying to take my blood pressure, but has the cuff practically on my shoulder blade. My arms aren't exactly rail thin here, so you're not helping anyone if you try to wrap that thing around the biggest part. So she attempts to take my blood pressure 4 times (that's 2 on each arm for those following along at home) and still can't do it. Meanwhile, I'm seeing spots and my fingers are tingling because the cuff gets so tight. There's also tiny little red dots on the insides of my elbows. And this is all before the needles come out. Finally she asks for help and a new person comes and repositions the cuff on the correct place on my arm and gets a reading the first time. Amazing. At least they didn't have the new girl sticking people.

The girl who did actually puncture me was very nice but used 2 swabs of that iodine stuff on the inside of my elbow. It was dripping down the side of my arm. Lovely. Then I guess she had a little trouble keeping her eye on the vein because she flipped the cylindrical swab stick around and pressed down on my arm until there was a tiny circular indention (in my skin!) to "mark her place." I almost walked out. But after the whole blood pressure thing, and then my iron actually being high enough to donate I felt obligated to stay. Plus they had me in that reclining chair thing and those things are really quite comfy.

Then, because apparently the lite rock power ballad playing on the radio reminded her of it somehow, she showed us her vacation pictures. Well, just the one, really. That she was very proud of. She was lying on the beach in a deck chair and took a picture of the beach from that point of view. So you see her legs stretched out and her feet. It really was kind of neat, but she showed it to every single person on the bus and kept saying, "doesn't it look like a corona commercial?" I'm pretty sure it's against the rules to strap someone to a chair, stick a needle in them and then show them your vacation pictures on top of everything.

Add in the fact there was a burst pipe or something at work and the downstairs offices (where I've just relocated) were starting to flood and my day was awesome.

How was yours?

Finally got to see The King's Speech. Now I understand all the Oscar buzz. I loved it. I was really impressed with Colin Firth. But we all know that I am generally impressed with Colin Firth. But this time it is completely unbiased. Turns out it is possible to make Colin Firth more adorable - just add a stutter. And Helena Bonham Carter and Geoffrey Rush were great as well. I like that Helena Bonham Carter brings a little quirkiness to every role. And Winston Churchill! Love him, and how great the portrayal was of him in this movie. I also really like the incorporation of actual newsreel footage. I hope I haven't given anything away here. I'm pretty sure I didn't reveal anything.

Watching this film really made want to go read up on the history of the current royal family. I'm fairly sure that Helen Bonham Carter's character is who they called the Queen Mother. I think she died only a few years ago. It's always interesting to me to realize how it wasn't that long ago that it all happened. I read about World War II and it seems so long ago, but it really was only a few years ago. I always forget that.

Also of note this evening: I managed to fall up the stairs. Up. The Stairs. Because I'm talented. I was going up to my seat and my foot didn't quite clear the edge of the stair. And down I went. There's now a lovely purple bruise on my knee, and it's doing this slightly worrying swelling thing. I've got ice on it now, so hopefully that will help. I was most unhappy about the fact that the popcorn literally went flying and I spilled most of it. I even found some in my purse as we were leaving. So Mama and I were left with half a bag between us. It turned out to be plenty, but it's the principle of the thing! Gravity, pick on me if you must, just leave popcorn out of it.

I also sat at my new desk today. It was - let's call it interesting. I just need to get used to new people. I spent 2 years seeing the same people over and over again. I got used to all their quirks - at least to the point that I could usually either ignore them or mock them (lovingly, of course) on the internet. But now I just need to get used to a whole new group of people. Luckily my direct neighbors seem willing to just sit quietly and not share their life story with me. I guess we'll see what tomorrow brings.

And now in honor of The King's Speech and Winston Churchill, who was a small but memorable part in the movie, I leave you with a quote from Churchill himself:
Success is going from failure to failure without a loss of enthusiam.

So. Tax refunds are kind of awesome, aren't they? I just found out how much mine will be this year. I'm still smiling. Hopefully it'll all add up to mean I can take some time off before graduate school in September.

Anyway, I have been working on my classes all weekend. Online classes are (in my opinion) even more effort than actual classes. So many discussion board posts! Luckily, I am particularly qualified in making up entire paragraphs that sound passably intelligent but don't actually mean anything. I was an English major, after all.

Tomorrow starts my new team. I hope to have more stories for everyone. How many times can I talk about the guy who wouldn't shut up? He constantly talked about how awesome he was in comparison to the rest of us. And seemed convinced that he was really very charming.
Or the guy who lied constantly, each lie more outlandish than the next? Build racecars on the weekend, do you? Design rollercoasters in Texas? Yeah, I totally bought all of those stories.

I will NOT be missing those particular coworkers.

I'm afraid this post is going to be very short. I had to work the late shift today, and I've just gotten home. I'm trying not to stay up any later than I have to, so I avoid sleeping the day away. Sunday afternoon naps always ruin my sleep on Monday. It's a vicious cycle.

So I'm off to try and force myself to sleep. I just hope I don't dream of taking calls. I don't even want to take calls while I'm at work.

I'm on the verge of a moderately big change at work. I came back on Thursday after my day off to discover that the new Associate Director of the center had come in and decided to "shake things up." Her way of shaking things up was to randomly reassign people to knew teams. Insanity. I'm really very bummed about leaving my team. I don't think it's possible to spend 40 hours a week with people for 2 years and not get a little attached. Plus, it's very comfortable. I know what to expect. In fact, we're all so stuck in a rut sometimes I can listen to the people around me and predict what they'll say before they say it. Even though our calls aren't scripted, everyone seems to come up with a script on their own. Maybe the shake up isn't such a bad thing. Most of the people that are moving raised a huge fuss about the whole thing. I guess they're, like, invested in this job or something. I'm just basically trying to make it through this semester so I can go to Graduate School full time in the fall. As long as they pay me so I can pay tuition, I don't care where I sit. I am very blessed though, that my new manager is really very nice. She's very outgoing and I'm pretty sure as long as I do my job and don't insult the Saints I should be good. So, I spent my day (okay, not the whole day. I had to actually work during most of it) packing up my desk. A lot of crap can accumulate in 2 and half years. I ended up throwing most of it away - I had notebooks full of stuff from my training class that I never even looked at after it was over. It feels almost like I'm starting a new job. Even though my responsibilities are the same everything else has changed: my location, my coworkers, my manager. I'm surprising myself by really looking forward to a fresh start.

I'm less surprised to find that I'm looking forward to moving away from a few of my overly-talkative coworkers.

Okay, today is one week of weight watchers for me. I haven't said anything before because I've had some false starts with Weight Watchers and other "programs." You know how it goes, Monday morning you're all excited and determined and then by Thurday you're back in the front row of Carbapalooza. ...is that just me? I had a false start last week - I'd intended to start on Monday of last week. But then came the ice and it's hard to start watching what you eat when you're stuck in the house with nothing but fries and cheese and sour cream and a creative way to combine them.
So, Lesson 1 of Weight Watchers (or any eating plan. ...Or any life change, really): Prepare ahead of time. You can't wing it.
Anyway, now I'm prepared with appropriate food and everything I bought recently has it's points marked on it. Also, there's an app for it. (Of course) Anyway, once I was Prepared, I started on last Thursday. It's been easier than I thought it would be so far. I debated on saying anything, I usually like to keep these sorts of things private, but I've decided to use this as a form of accountability.
Besides, we're all friends here.

Oh, and I lost 6 pounds in five days. (how was that for nonchalence? I've been practicing since I burst into Mama's room and declared it yesterday morning.)

Man, I am exhausted. But at least today it's not lack of sleep or an overall tired feeling, it's because I did a lot of physical work. I helped my mom paint walls at what will one day soon be the home of the Food Pantry at Life Church. The old building where it was housed (known as The Blue House) was torn down to make way for the Annex. And now the Food Pantry is moving to what once was the Youth House. Most of the colors on the wall are great, but there was one major wall that was painted black. So we're repainting. Thankfully someone already primed it with white paint, so we just had to go in with the new color.
Now this may sound odd, but I really love painting walls. I find it very relaxing. Seriously. And it's a great workout, what with all the reaching and the stretching and bending. Got a wall to paint? I'm your girl. Except for taping off the floor and ceiling. I hate that part. Very tedious work.
We did the first coat today and will be finishing it up soon.

Have some pictures!

Close up of sign my mom made.

It's nice to end the day feeling like you accomplished something.

Well. I had very good intentions about going to bed early. But then I didn't get home until nearly 9 tonight and time just seems to get away from me. I have to give myself a certain amount of time between work and going to sleep, otherwise I dream about taking calls. And then I wake up even less rested and more stressed out than usual. Also, I get angry because the last thing I want to do away from work is think about work. Or talk on the phone, even if it is in my dreams. I'd rather be dreaming about having tea with Colin Firth. ...or you know, something less specific. Whatever.

Speaking of Colin Firth, I really want to see The King's Speech. This doesn't have anything to do with anything else I've been talking about - except Colin Firth. And really, isn't any sentence improved with a little Colin Firth? (I've said Colin Firth a whole bunch of times in this one little paragraph. Colin Firth)

Also! Turns out my car is okay! We though I might need a new battery (good call, Court!) but Bobby cleaned the cable thingys off and now apparently it's running. Yay!

the problem with taking a nap Sunday afternoon to make up for not being able to sleep on Saturday night is that I can't sleep on Sunday night! Having to work late on only one night a week is really throwing off my sleep schedule. So now I'm going to try to go to bed extra early tonight, in an attempt to make up for the hours (HOURS!!) I just lay in bed staring at the ceiling. Let's face it, even with the a ceiling fan there's a limit to the entertainment value here.
I've also severely limited my caffiene intake today. Which meant I was yawning all through work, but hopefully I won't be up all night tonight.
Let's see, shall we?
Look at me, I'm super excited about going to bed early. It's kind of sad, really.

Well. My car won't start. I should have known something like this would happen, because I recently got a bonus at work and my savings account is looking pretty good. Though it could be worse - I could not have the money to pay for it. For those who are wondering - when I try to start my car it is silent while I'm turning the key, then after the ignition is on it makes this crazy clicking sound. And then the lights on the dashboard come on and start blinking like they're at a rave. ...I guess. I don't really know what goes on at a rave. But I'm assuming there are lots of flashing lights. Look, not all similes can be perfect.

More Introductory post fun! The same art teacher that asked about pets has now asked "What is your favorite and least favorite word." I made something up because I didn't want to sound like I was making something up. My favorite word (right now) is onomatopoeia, because it's super fun to say. And it's a long complicated word for a seriously simple concept. But unless you know me it sounds like I just picked a word out of the dictionary. So because I'd just finished watching the end of Pride and Prejudice (the Keira Knightley one) I chose incandescent. Also fun to say. And for some reason it makes me think of candles in mason jars.

I also couldn't say my actual least favorite word because it's not fit for polite company, though most people don't realize it. Let's just say it's a commonly used slang for breast. And starts with a T. I just hate the word. I hate the way it sounds and it has always seemed somehow slightly derogatory. Like it's shameful. I don't know, okay, it's a thing for me.
Anyway. Can't put that in a classroom discussion board. So, I choose the word squelch. Because, c'mon. It sounds gross. Nothing good ever squelches.

So I posted these words and slightly toned down reasons why I liked them. And what do my classmates choose? Hate because "no one should every use that word" and taxes. And the favorites? Love and freedom. Clearly I overthought this.

I almost forgot to blog! The horror! I've been really busy with school stuff. The semester started today and I'm taking classes online at BPCC. I need to raise my GPA just a smidge so I can get unconditional acceptance to the Master of Education program at Tech. And the easiest (cheapest) way to do that is to take classes at BPCC. So I loaded up on classes that sounded like they might be interesting, and not involve serious amounts of effort. Or math, which requires serious amounts of effort and calls to Colorado. So now I am officially enrolled in Louisiana History, which I'm looking forward to a) because I love history and b) I think it'll be the easiest to do well in. I'm also taking Anthropology, which sounds interesting. At least the very little I know about it. Anyway, isn't Bones some sort of anthropologist? Can't be all bad then, can it? Then there's Art History, which I've already taken once at LSUS, but once again, seemed like it wouldn't require me to learn new things. Also, it contains the word history. So, fingers crossed. The last class I'm enrolled in is Humanities. I have no idea what it entails. Seriously, no idea. But it was available online and didn't involved words like fractions, square root, periodic table, or physical activity. Also, I'm a human. I'm already ahead of the game. (ba dum bum. I'm here all week, folks)
So far my first assignment in every class has been to post an Introduction Post on the message boards. It should come as no surprise to anyone that I worked a little copy and paste magic there. C'mon. It's not like my life story changed as I was clicking on the different classes. Everytime I'm tempted to make stuff up. "My name is Amanda. I was born in Yugoslavia. I have no sense of smell." At least it would liven things up a bit.
One girl posted about her pets and said "I have 4 goldfish that I raised from a baby." ...I just find that sentence fascinating. How long is a goldfish a baby? How can you tell if it's a baby? I'll be honest with you, I'm picturing late night feedings one night and a bar mitzvah the next.

At least these discussions will give me something to write about on this thing.

UGH. So I got like 4 hours of sleep last night. I just lay in bed trying convince myself I was sleepy. Turns out staring at the ceiling going, "sleeeeeeeep. sleeeeeeeeeeeeeeep. sleeeeeeEEEEEEeeeeEEEEp" is not at all effective. The sleep I actually did get was punctuated tossing and turning. This = very cranky Amanda. Not great when one works in customer service.

And now I am sitting here listening to He's Just Not That Into You playing in the kitchen, thinking about how often relationships turn both men and women into gibbering morons. Of course, this is fictional so it's probably not cool to make generalizations based on this movie, but I am.
So there ya go. Also, I just really like pretty much the entire cast. Except Scarlett Johansson. Something about her rubs me the wrong way.

I've been sitting her for 20 minutes trying to think of something to write.

I got nothing.
No wait. Yeah, still nothing.
Here, have a picture of a funny cat:

The following Unsent Letter is dedicated to a special coworker. It's entitled:
GO HOME PHLEGMY!

Seriously, I'm sorry you're feeling bad. But I really don't need you germing up the office. These windows don't open. We're sharing the same recycled air here. And I do NOT want to breathe in whatever mutant germ has caused you to make that sound. It sounds like one of those cars in the old Disney cartoons is at the desk beside me, coughing and sputtering. Not to mention the insessant sniffling. Blow your nose, dude. BUT NOT IN HERE, GROSS.
And now comes the spitting. That's right, the spitting. Into a doubled up Walmart bag sitting on the floor. That's not sanitary. Two WalMart bags is not a sufficient buffer between your mucus and the rest of the world. Seriously. Biological warfare is prohibited by the Geneva Convention, so you and your bag'o'mucus should be at home. Where you can keep your germs close by.

GO HOME. GOHOMEGOHOMEGOHOOOOOME.
Oh, and Feel better!
amanda

Okay. Had to fix the previous post - those pictures just weren't lining up like they were supposed to. It made very little sense. I had an unofficial self-designated snow day today. I planned to go to work but my doors were frozen shut and I had nothing to scrap the ice off my windshield with so I gave up. And called in. Last year I fought my way through snow and ice and showed up to work only to find out that 90% of the employees (including my manager) had called in. Lesson learned.

But now it's back to work as usual tomorrow. I should probably do some laundry or something instead of just sitting here watching Veronica Mars on Netflix.

Today has been a very laid back day for me. I basically just lounged around in my pajamas eating 4-layer bean dip. I know, I know I missing three layers. But I don't like olives. Or guacamole. ...what's the other layer? Something unappetizing, clearly, or I would be eating it right now.

I have been trying to work on The List, doing little things that can be done at my desk. Like memorizing the Presidents in order. So far I can name the first 10. Tomorrow I'll work my way to 20. I made myself flashcards, because I'm seriously nerdy sometimes.

Also! It snowed! ...sorta. For about 20 minutes. But I'm hoping that's enough to get me out of work tomorrow. I sent Courtney a picture of the snow cause I was all excited. It looked like this:

She sent one back that said: Snowing here too. It looked like this:






Now that's a snow day. Here, anyway. Probably just a Sunday there. By the way, the large expanse of white beyond the tree? Yeah, that's a lake. Bet she still has to go to work tomorrow, though. Those mountain states have to work hard for their snow days.

Okay! I blogged for the day. Now I can go back to watching Revenge of the Bridesmaids on Netflix. Love that Raven-Symone!

Y'all. I'm so tired. Always, always tired. I think I need vitamins. Or possibly a coffee fairy. Is it weird that in my head the next logical step after vitamins is a fairy that provides coffee on demand? Seems about right to me.

I'm both hoping for a snow day and trying not to get my hopes up, all at same time. Once again, I think that logic only works in my head.

Okay, I have no more thoughts. Time to sleep.

Look, I'm posting daily, they can't all be winners.

Okay. I don't want to alarm anyone, but I think my life turned into a musical when I wasn't looking. People keep bursting into song around me. Like, everywhere. There are people are work that sing at random intervals throughout the day. Usually, it's songs but today one girl kept repeating what peole said in song. (yes, it was just about as annoying as it sounds. No, wait. It was even more annoying than it sounds.) But people sing at work all the time, so while it's confusing it wasn't usual. But then! At the store there was someone singing loudly as they walked down the aisle. And then a few minutes later, I walked past a woman who started singing under her breath.
But wait! There's more. And these I have a witness to. While eating at Cracker Barrell the man at the table behind me started singing along to a Garth Brooks song (which made me sing along, because c'mon, it's Friends in Low Places. It's like a biological imperative to sing along to that song) AND THEN a waitress walked by about 10 minutes later singing along to another song.
Remember that part in Enchanted when every starts singing and McDreamy is totally confused. That's me. Only there's no dancing (so far) and no one has actually been able to carry a tune like the crowd in Enchanted.
So all in all it's been a very surreal day. So if you happen to see me and feel the need to burst into song, feel free. Chances are you won't be the first.

I spent my day be stalked by a song. How was your day?

Seriously, the song Billionaire followed me around today. A seemingly innocent tweet made me think of it. And of course, it immediately got stuck in my head. So, I did what any reasonable person would do - I shared it. Why should I be the only one randomly humming lyrics I only kind of know?
Just when I'd finally gotten it out of my head when it came back to haunt me again. Someone had left their cellphone on in the office and it chose that exact moment to go off - their ringtone? You guessed it - Billionaire. So of course it gets stuck in my head again. But this time I wasn't the only one - the entire right side of the office kept breaking into song off and on for the rest of the day. Sometimes more than one person would start singing, and we'd all join in. (It was a slow day, as I'm sure you've guessed) Once again proving that misery loves company, I thoughtfully tweeted about it, thus shoving it into the brain of everyone who follows me. You're welcome, guys.

Funny sidenote: my brain sings the edited version of the song. So while it was annoying, I wasn't randomly humming profanity. Always a plus.

Instead of a post today we'll be having a new Unsent Letter. You can find the rest here: Letters to An Unsuspecting Public It's been a while since I updated. It's hard to be inspired at work. Most of my letters are: Dear Customers, STOP CALLING ME AND ASKING STUPID QUESTIONS. Hopefully I'll have more soon.

Dear Local Companies,

I know you are proud of your kids. And you think that they are just the cutest thing ever and are destined for fame and fortune. I'm not going to argue with you. I know a losing battle when I see one. This is my point: in spite of Junior's obvious talent, there is no need to put him in the commercial for your business. Seriously, these kids are everywhere. Some are in suits, some are rapping, I really think that one commericial is just a kid crying run through that AutoTune app. See, as cute as the Little Darlings are, I DON'T WANT TO BUY STUFF FROM THEM. Especially not big ticket items like cars and washing machines.
Maybe that's just me.

Don't Even Get Me Started on those LaRue's commercials,
amanda


For those of you not familiar with the LaRue's commercial, you can seem them in all their glory here:

OVERHEARD AT WORK TODAY: "Yeah, that's where the super mutants were hanging out. Too bad I only had my machete."

I sincerely hope they were talking about a video game. What with the birds falling out of the sky and the dead fish, supermutants sounds like the next step. ...well, maybe you'd have to skip a few steps but it's definitely down the line!

...anyway.

Time to talk about another part of the list that I've accomplished! I have to admit this one has been my favorite so far - #67 Visit Washington DC. In September Courtney and I met up in Maryland and spent 2 full days in Washington, DC. It was so much fun. Seriously, it was just so awesome. I don't think I've walked that much in such a short time before. There were so many things to see - everything was so much bigger in person. And, of course, because it was me and Courtney we spent most of the time laughing.
...except for that last day when I got a little cranky. (sorry, Court)

First came the ride on the Metro, where we sat across from a homeless guy taking a nap. I felt very grownup. :) I loved the Metro, it was remarkably clean. I think if it was in Shreveport, it would have been kind of disgusting. I definitely liked it better than driving everywhere. Riding the Metro counts as #84: riding public transportation.
Also being checked off the public transportation: a bus! Not just any bus - a double decker bus. We sat on the top level, of course. We made friends with other passengers and danced to the music from the cars on the road.

Best part about the top level? You can take pictures of the all the cool stuff without actually getting off the bus.

This is a picture of an awesome statue thingy right outside Union Station where we caught the bus. In the background you can see a bus similar to the one we were on at the time.

First stop was the Library of Congress. (otherwise knows as The Mothership)
.

We didn't get to actually see any books up close, but we peered through the window - like hungry orphans looking in a restaurant in a Dickens novel. ...not that we were hungry. Or orphans. Or that ever happened in a Dickens novel. We did get a great picture through the glass



Okay, I have loads more pictures. That's just the first stop, after all. But I'm very tired. And I have 27 more days to fill this month.

Day 3! And it's technically before midnight! Go me. I have been busy writing letters to penpals all day. It's really fun. I have a penpal in New Zealand (Hi Justine!) and one in the Phillipines (Hi Louise!) plus one in New York (Hi Kerry!) and a new penpal in Budapest (Hi Edit!) I found them all through PostCrossing.com, which was part of The List (of course, what isn't on that thing?) It's so fun to hear about everyday life in other countries. Plus I get something to keep my mind off the repetitiveness of work. Now I just have to remember to actually send the letters. You'd think that'd be the easy part, since I could mail them from the office, but no.
The main point of PostCrossing.com is not to find penpals, it's to exchange post cards. It goes like this: you sign up with your name and address and are assigned a random name and address from the site. Then when you send your post card, your name is given to a random member of the site. So far I've received postcards from Thailand, England, Italy, Scandinavia - just to name a few! And each postcard has a little note saying hello. It's a great way to brighten your day. I've even found new friends online - like my new twitter friend @VABookworm87.

So. To sum up: PostCrossing.com = awesome.
And you should give it a try.

Quote of the Day: ‎"Don't be afraid to scrape the paint off and try again" Bob Ross (yeah, that painter with 'fro and the happy trees)

Okay, well. I almost failed that NaBloPoMo thing on the second day. But I'm posting before I sleep, so I'm calling this a win.

Today I've been thinking about this quote:
We spend January 1 walking through our lives, room by room, drawing up a list of work to be done, cracks to be patched. Maybe this year, to balance the list, we ought to walk through the rooms of our lives... not looking for flaws, but for potential. (Ellen Goodman)
Which was posted on facebook by Rikki Gee, and then part of a video shown at church today. The sermon today also really makes me think about not focusing on the what hasn't gone the way I thought it would, and instead focusing on the potential that I have to shape my own life.

It's such a timely message, because at this time of year I have the tendancy to look around and think "Wow, this is not where I thought I'd be 5 years after graduating." But instead I'm choosing to focus on what can and will be, instead of what might have been.

Also, I really, really hate pinky rings. Slightly off subject, I know, but that's just something I need to get out there. It's totally irrational, but I just am totally irked by them. If I see someone wearing a pinky ring in a movie or TV show it will just totally take me out of the movie because I'm busy thinking "why a pinky ring? of all the fingers to wear a ring, why the pinky?" And then I miss crucial plot points.

Okay! First post of 2011! I seem to just update this thing every 6 months. But now because of The List, I'll be posting every day for 6 months. Number 19 is participate in National Blog Post Month (NaBloPoMo) for 6 months. And since I've only got 10 months left before the deadline of The List, that means I'll have to shoot for 6 months in a row. The official site says that NaBloPoMo is "Essentially, it's a group of people who have committed to updating their blogs once a day for an entire month." So. There you have it. Six months of daily updates. Probably won't be too interesting, but it'll be done.

I guess I should update on The List. I was able to get a lot of things done but not as many as I'd have liked. I'm pretty much resigned to not doing everything on The List, but that'll give me something to put on the next version. Somethings I've just given up on. Actually, just one thing is definitely not going to get down - #18 which was participate in National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo). That just wasn't going to happen. 50,000 words in 30 days? Of fiction? Seriously? I think not. This blog posting thing is much more my style. At least, I hope it is.

Okay. I'm all blogged out for the night. And even though it's technically after midnight I'm counting this as January 1st. One done, 179 to go.