Thursday, August 31, 2006

Sleeping with the enemy

Think back to 1991. Julia Robert's flick called Sleeping with The Enemy. Remember it? Remember when she fixed her towels in her new house after they had been moved? How freaky that was?

Okay - so think Lynnwood, Washington. My place. (If you've never been here just use your imagination - and feel free to embellish my living conditions to be mansion-esk).

In my guest bathroom, I have two towels hanging from a towel rack. Nothing out of the ordinary except for the past 2 weeks, the towels - which I have put even - are constantly uneven. Every time I go into that bathroom and they are askew it freaks me out. And for the life of me I can't figure out why. I fix them, and then guarantee the next day they are askew again.

Tonight I was in there and feeling all "Sleeping With The Enemy-esk" by fixing them - again. Right behind me was my pal Pookie.

I turned to wash my hands and happened to see in the mirror that rat of a cat in action.

He has taken to standing on his back feet and grabbing the bottom of the towel with his TEETH and pulling it. Now, imagine my happiness at finally figuring out who / what was rearranging my towels...which was followed quickly with, "What the hell?" He likes to play under the towels and "attack" the hidden "mouse" normally. But I've never EVER seen a cat pull the towel with his teeth. Naturally, I assume he's doing this to mess with me. Why else would he do it? The little bugger.

So Mystery solved. Anyone want a cat who can rearrange towels? I could go on Dave Letterman Stupid Pet Tricks - and make millions! Well, maybe not.

I've got nothin'

Nothin' of interest to most of you anyhow. I do have a few demons I'm wrestling with that are keeping me busy.

Lexington Crash - I am obsessed with reading about this. I find myself daily checking all the news places to see if any new information comes out of the investigation. I'm not really sure what I'm looking for. Maybe I'm hoping that I'll read a report that says, "Just kidding." I've only known Sarah for a few months. We corresponded mostly through email as the conference approached. Then in NY we really got along well and I knew she and I would be friends - long distance perhaps, but friends. Hearing that she lost her husband in this crash was so surreal to me. I, like most of you, hear about the plane crashes or hurricanes or whatever disaster on the news. We may feel for a moment for those people who lost their lives and for their family. But its something completely different to me to read the manifest of passengers and come across a friends husband's name. My heart goes out to her and her family.

Mustang - We clicked over to 1000 miles this past weekend. Two weeks 1000 miles...not too bad. I'm getting much better gas mileage than I expected too. I think anyone who knows me now knows of the car and has done the appropriate oooh'ing and ahhh'ing / slobbering over it. I did have an unfortunate opportunity to find out how quickly it can stop. I will never understand people driving sometimes. Here's a hint: If its raining, and there seems to be stop and go traffic and if there's a half of car length between two cars - its probably not safe for you to change lanes and slam on your brakes. I can't type the words I said yesterday because - well my mom reads this.

25th Anniversary Party - The party is nearing. I've got just about everything under control. Coordinating the day will be the challenge. Mom tells me Dad hasn't been doing super well lately (we think he may be suffering from early stages of Alzeimer's). He's getting increasingly forgetful and mean about things. My biggest fear is he'll one day forget he had a daughter. I will miss the man who I love as my dad. Until then I'm going to see/do as much with him that I can (and try to remember all the mean things he may say aren't him, but the disease). Aside from that we are go for launch for the party.

The Job - No news is - um - maybe good news. I'm still feeling very uneasy about the possibility of them canceling my contract. The "BIG" announcements comes out the second week of September. I sent my resume out to friends for review and - well - I got some darn good suggestions. This weekend I'll be updating that and posting it on Monster and with my recruiter next week.

Let's see...what have I missed? Hmmmm... I think that's it for now. I'd say I'll write when something exciting happens...but I'm guessing excitement is out of my life for a bit. Time to focus inward again. Oh joy!

Monday, August 28, 2006

The Manlove that is Dudley

Before I get too far in to how FANTASTIC the show was this weekend, it's with a heavy heart that I pass on my sympathies to friend Sarah who just lost her husband in the plane crash in Lexington. Won't you join me in sending a thought or two in her direction.

Now, on to happier topics.

Dudley at the Triple Door has GOT to be the best ever. (Ever notice I say that with each show?) The sound in this "designed for musical shows" restaurant just makes everything sooo much mo'better. This show was, in fact, the last show of their Sexy Saxophone player Matt Chase. He's moving on to bigger and better show biz opportunities and now gets to tour with David Hasselhoff. (That's a joke. Really. It is.) They did a nice little tribute to him before the second set - you know the kind. Embarrassing pictures of your past coupled with witty commentary.

The boys did TWO fantastically, mastered sets which included all my favorite songs (with the one exception of "Me and Mrs. Jones" I hate that song for some reason. Our seats were perfect; slightly up off the main floor and center stage. I got to sit and stare/gawk all night at the boys - okay just one of the boys. But still....

Their next "big" show is their Halloween show. WAY, way WAY, back when I first started this blog their Halloween show was one of my first posts. This year will prove to be even better. I've started my list of bad songs. But I'd like to hear from all of you out there. What are your favorite bad songs? Specifically, from the 80's to today.









Friday, August 25, 2006

Dudley Manlove wants ME to work for them.

What perfect timing. I may have to look for a job soon - so this would be perfect.

************************************************
Email from Dudley:
We're looking for a couple of good eggs willing to work the Dudley Manlove Quartet merchandise booth at the Triple Door show Saturday night. We're selling our lovely Dudley Manlove Memorial High School T-Shirts (just in time for back-to-school season) and our rockin' CDs -- and we need you to push our product proper!

We'll get you into the show for free, bring you drinks and give you a pedicure. Interested? Dudley Manlove Quartet is an equal opportunity employer.

*************************************************
Okay, so its not an email directed to JUST me. But, it did have my email address in the "To:" line, so who's to say that he didn't send it to just me. And a pedicure, oh yah baby.

As you are now probably aware, there is another show tomorrow night. They are losing one of the band members so this is his farewell show, AND their CD recording show. So I'm all over that. And heck, if I get to work closely and in a professional manner with the man, then I'm really all over it.

Cousin Sherrie is coming with me and I signed her up too. She suggested that perhaps I can sway the lead singer to possibly pay me in smooches instead of a ticket. Which means, if I pay for my ticket and then get paid in smooches from him, isn't that prostitution? I'm in.

Cousin Sherrie also suggested an intervention. She was cordially UN-invited.

I'll keep you posted because I know everyone's sitting on the edge of their seat to find out if I actually do work for them. I know you are. You know you are...just admit it.

And in other news...
Chose to be tagged to do this.

1. YOUR ROCK STAR NAME: (first pet and current street name)

Sylvester 36!

2. YOUR MOVIE STAR NAME: (grandfather/grandmother on your mom's side, your favorite candy)

Louise Monds (oh man - that sounds bad and she sounds fast)

3. YOUR "FLY GIRL/GUY" NAME: (first initial of first name, first two or three letters of your middle name)

J-JO
J-JOY
Either way- I'm way cool

4. YOUR DETECTIVE NAME: (favorite color, favorite animal)

Turquoise Cat

5. YOUR SOAP OPERA NAME: (middle name, city where you were born)

Joy Houston - Excellent - it really does sound like a Soap Opera name...

6. YOUR STAR WARS NAME!!: (the first 3 letters of your last name, first 2 letters of your first name, first 2 letters of your mom's maiden name and first 3 letters of the town you grew up in)

Wrajesphou - The dark side should be scared. Unless, I am on the dark side.


7. SUPERHERO NAME: (your favorite color, favorite drink)

Turquois Cosmopolitan! (alcoholic)
Turquois Americano! (non-alcoholic)

Either way I want mind reading super hero abilities, or X-ray vision. I can't ever decide.

Wednesday, August 23, 2006

Its the Final Countdown....

I've had this sent to me by a few people today. How does that work? How is it that I get none of these for days, weeks straight, then I get it from like three random people? So instead of sending it off to everyone and cluttering the vast world of the internet email systems...instead I choose to clutter Bloggerville.

Any of you Bloggers out there who want to be tagged...here's your tag.

Five jobs I have had in my life:
1. Customer Experience Manager
2. Channel Management Project Manager
3. Program Assistant
4. Barista
5. Secretary

Four Movies you could watch over and over:
1. Little Mermaid -what? Don't You
2. Princess Bride "Stop rhyming and I mean it. Anybody want a peanut."
3. While you were Sleeping - "He's delusional. He also thinks he invented aluminum foil."
4. Clueless - "Is it possible I stumbled into some bad lighting?"

Four Places I have lived:
Just four?
1. Lancaster, CA
2. Houston,TX
3. Lugano, Switzerland
4. Great Falls, Montana

Four places I've been on vacation:
1. New York
2. Hawaii
3. Spain
4. Hawaii
or wait, I already said that one.
4. Sedona, Arizona

Four Web sites I visit daily:
1. Yahoo Mail - dah....
2. Several Blogs
3. Seattle PI
4. MS NBC

Four TV shows I love to watch:
Oh now we're getting personal. Disclaimer: I do not ever claim that I have good taste in TV shows.
1. Survivor
2. Apprentice
3. Hell's Kitchen
4. 30 Minute Meals

Four of my favorite foods:
1. Anything Italiany - Pasta-y
2. Anything I cook
3. Steak and Potatoes
4. Cheeseburgers...anywhere, anytime

Four Places I'd rather be right now:
1. In bed with a hot man
2. In Italy wondering the streets of an out of the way village with a hot man
3. Anywhere in Hawaii with a hot man
4. On the open road driving the 'Stang - Okay I'll let a hot man in here too

Four Frequent Phrases you use:
1. Excellent!
2. Dude....
3. Um, riiiight.
4. Whatever!


Oh and for good clean fun, check out Ken's post today: Every thing is a Threat. Every one is a Suspect.

Tuesday, August 22, 2006

The What? The why? The Huh?


Yah I don't know what to say. I've spent about 20minutes - okay wasted 20 minutes - going through this site laughing my ass off at what people do to their cats. I know, from experience too, that my cat would NEVER EVER stand for any of this. He'd be so out of there and I'd likely never see him for months.

But this picture killed me. The look on this cats face and the fact that he has what I call ghost poopies all over him. Too too funny. In fact, I have a box of ghost poopies at home. Here Pookie! Here Kitty Kitty!

Mustang Chronicles - One week

It's been one week since I bought the beautiful beast of a car. And it has done nothing but impress and wow me and others. Whodathunk that getting a hot car would gain me such attention? Had I known that I would have bought one earlier!

She purrs like a kitten until the late night roars ($5 or big kudos to whomever - besides mom can name that tune).

I downloaded my new theme song and find myself playing it very loud and often in the Mustang. Yep, you guessed it, Mustang Sally. I know its an obvious choice, but it sooo fits...Especially the line "you'd better slow your Mustang down." (I have no idea what this video has to do with Mustang's but it's funny than shit to hear it with the song. You've been warned!) Holy excelerator Batman! No shit. I find myself doing 45 in 2nd gear in a 25 MPH zone.

And wouldn't you know it, after "googling" Mustang Sally, I found this. A restaurant in NY that was right by where I was 95% of the time....Humph!

In other news, I'm over my little tirade about the questions about my spending habits. I felt like a powder keg that day and it was the right spark to set me off.

I have absolutely nothing else of excitement to share with you. My life has hit the all time low of things going on. It's probably because 1) I'm in the car more, 2) I'm not traveling and 3) I've pretty much dropped the crush for now.

I did, however, cook a KICK ASS Paella this weekend. And found the best freakin' cheap Sangria ever - sold in stores. I bought mine at Central Market and QFC.

Saturday, August 19, 2006

Postmortem - NY style

My horoscope today couldn't have been more appropriate.

"You move fast and make decisions at an even faster pace, but you need to slow it down -- way down -- when it comes to money matters. The stars are telling you to take a long look at your budget. "

That coupled with a few people "questioning" what I spent in NY I thought, why not take a look at it.

I can't count any of the days I was there on business with MS. They picked up 90% of that tab. Anything I purchased outside of business stuff I had to cover. So I'm opening my proverbial wallet for the world to see.

Meals = 3 Days with Alcohol, water, etc = +/- $200
Purses = $240 (Because I purchased many of these for other people, I will get back $150)
Transportation= $20
Harbor Cruise, Uptown Bus Tour, Downtown/Midtown tour = $77
Empire State Building tour = $16
Misc make up / lip gloss, etc at Bloomingdales (Bev made me do it - just kidding) = $100
Broadway show = $90 to Stephen for the - discounted tickets were a much better way to go.
Hotel = +/- $300 - A steal by NY standards

Total for 5 GLORIOUS days in NY = $1043
And you need to factor that EVERYTHING in NY is more expensive. My Grande Vanilla Americano that costs me $2.57 here in Seattle was $3.02 there.

AND...if you subtract the $150 I will be getting back - Grand total $893

Now if you take into consideration that I didn't have to pay my airfare - nor did I pay for a hotel for the first 7 days. I got a 10 day trip to NY for only $1000.

Some may say that's a lot. Some may think that I spend too freely. I would have to say to those few that in fact, I do spend freely. I work hard to earn a good salary. I save, pay myself like I'm supposed to...so why no spend a little on me. I can't take it all with me. And what I have now is a lifetime of memories that can even come close to the cost of $1000.

So, coming off what some would consider an "expensive" trip to NY, I buy a car. Added expense no doubt. But perhaps many of you, who don't live in my brain, or in my life, don't realize that I have been planning this car for well over 10 months. I did my research. I worked a deal, and I feel VERY confident and satisfied with what I - ME - STABLE ADULT Jenn - can and will afford.

If any others of you feel like I've been spending too much $$ I leave with this. Stop reading my blog then. And please, stop judging me! If you want to make comments about my spending, feel free, but please make them to me or keep them to yourself. And if you don't approve of my spending, that's your problem not mine. Maybe its jealousy that drives the judgment? Maybe some of you wish you were able to be as carefree as a single girl in Seattle? Whatever it is, know this....this is the LAST I will defend my actions.

There. With all that out.

MY MUSTANG ROCKS!!!!! And I got all my photos of NY...man I sure had a blast.

Thursday, August 17, 2006

Mentos and Diet Coke

I am probably the last person to hear about this, but was stunned to see this video. IT'S AWESOME!!!

Go to: http://us.mentos.com/
Click on the "View this Mentos Experiment"

101 two liter bottles of Diet coke and 523 mentos were used.

Day Two of the Mustang Diaries

Don't worry, I'll tire of writing about the little red fireball ... maybe.

I noticed on the way into work this morning - I left later, by the way, so I could drive faster. Setting the cruise control as to avoid any traffic tickets. Anyhow, I noticed that in two days I've gone just about 300 miles in this little car. And have used almost a tank of gas. Perhaps to help the environment I should "curve" my enthusiasm to drive....

Topic Switch
I was looking at my photos of my NY trip and thinking about the parts of it that were truly sensational. Everything ranked pretty high on my "OH MY GAWD this is fun" scale. But one thing keeps coming back to me.

St. Paul's Cathedral at Ground Zero.

Ground Zero, in and of itself, wasn't that moving to me. I expected heavy emotions and instead I felt nothing. But walking through St. Paul's Cathedral and seeing everything there, all the keepsakes, all the memories, all the notes of courage and thanks, that got to me. Choking back tears I meandered through the little church and marveled how being across the street from this disaster the church was relatively undamaged. To stand where many thousands of brave men and women came to rest, get nourishment, and comfort really was felt by me.

I don't know if it was divine intervention that kept this little church standing. But something protected it.

Wednesday, August 16, 2006

Day One of the Mustang Diaries

I knew when I awoke yesterday at the hour before the sun rose, that it was going to be a very frustrating day for me. I had spent the better part of the night fantasizing about where to drive the Mustang. During my trip home from the dealership, it didn't take a moment for me to realize I would truly love driving this car.

After removing the cat who was has been plastered to my side since my return from NY, I rushed through my morning routine. My goal: Get to work in zoom zoom time. I thought an early start would allow for at least more fast driving then normal. I would be wrong.

Rushing outside, I stand and marvel at the beauty that is my car. God she's beautiful. She sat there glistening in the sunlight, begging me to get in and take it for a spin. My eyes passed over the lengthy of the body and took in all the magnificance that was there...wait... what? Is that a scratch? I rush to the car and rub part of the paint pleading it to not be a scratch. At last I realize the metallic paint and the sunshine (and my polarized sunglasses) are merely messing with my vision.

I sit in the driver seat, anxious to turn the key. I know what's waiting for me. The low glutteral purring sound of the V6 engine. And as sure as the sun will rise tomorrow, the 'Stang does not dissapoint with the start of the engine. I rev it just a touch - don't want to wake the neighbors - to hear more of the power that is patiently waiting to be unleashed.

In reverse, and here we go. Crap. Stalled it.

I sit in the driver seat, anxious to turn....oh never mind. I started it again, put it in reverse and we were off.

It wasn't long before I realized a cruel joke was waiting for me. Traffic. !@#$% traffic. My commute should have taken me 15 minutes in this monstor muscle car, but instead it took me 1.5 hours of shifting, pushing in the clutch, stoping, ugh.

I got to work and realized I had, in my haste, left my badge at home. I pondered for just a moment if I should drive the 20 miles home to retrieve it. Surely the traffic going that way would be lighter and therefore allowing me to open-her-up. Instead, I planned a lunch with my 'Stang friends in Seattle. Though I decided to take the long route through ... Lynnwood.

Now for those of you who aren't familiar with this area, let me see if I can explain this in terms you'd understand.

Microsoft to Seattle 10 miles.
Microsoft to Lynnwood to Seattle 35 miles.

I'm just saying....sometimes you have to take the scenic route.

I didn't fair so well in this mornings commute either, though I did make it to 3rd gear for about 15 seconds.

The highlight, however, of this mornings commute was my conversation, while driving, with another Mustang driver. He was driving the EXACT car I was, though he has a fin on the back (which for the record I will be purchasing for my car). Now this "conversation" wasn't one of verbal banter. No this was engine-a-engine. He glanced over at me and smiled, I did the same. And as if in perfect harmony, our cars revved their engines at the same time. It was a beautiful moment.

Tuesday, August 15, 2006

I got a brand new pair of roller skates....

VROOM VROOM! Goes the Mustang.

"WEEEEEE" Goes Jenn.

Yes boys and girls, I am a proud owner of a 2006 RedFire V6 5 Speed MUSTANG.

The stars aligned last night to form a perfect glow over a Ford dealership in Seattle. They had the car I wanted and was willing to deal.

Pictures coming soon...I need to slow down enough to take a picture.

Monday, August 14, 2006

An Urgent Call out for Help

I just don't know what to do.

I'm distraut with this decision.

I'm calling out to all my readers to ask for their imput.

Please! Please! I need your help.

I'm begging.

I can't decide what color Mustang to buy. (Click on the color tab. If you click on each color it "dresses" the Mustang.

The deal is all but done. I just need to go in, finish up the paper work, and pick a color.

My previous Mustang (may it rest in peace) was close to the Vista Blue color. If you look at the top of a Sprite can, that's the blue. My #1 color is RedFire. I think its sooo purdy.

So I'm asking you, my readers, for your opinion.

Disclaimer: Your opinion may not count in my final decision.

And check this out. I can get a Mustang ringtone. Well, I could if Verizon were listed. F*cking Verizon.

Sunday, August 13, 2006

There's no place like home....

Hold on to your seats boys and girls. This is going to be a whirlwind blog. I have from Thursday night thru Saturday to tell you all about. That is, if I can remember. It’s gone by so fast I can barely remember an hour ago.

Thursday afternoon my St.Louis Sister-In-Law (SLSIL) arrived at Grand Central. It was sure good to see a familiar face that promised hours of entertainment after a week of work stuff. Quickly dumping her bags at the hotel we were off to find a place for a cocktail.

FNE was to meet us later for dinner. Two beers into it we finally get a call from FNE asking where we were and did we know what was going on outside? Huh? Outside? We glanced up from our cocktails and WOW what a site. It was pouring. I’m not talking just a simple little drip drop. No. This was the type of down pour in which you even think about going out in it and you’re soaking wet. FNE arrived – not so drenched because he had his umbrella – smart boy. But the thunder and lightening was amazing. It was rattling off the cement jungle like nothing I had ever heard. Fascinating.

Once we thought it died down enough to venture outside to find a cab, we were off to dinner. Pete’s Tavern. One of the oldest taverns in NY. I forget off hand exactly when it was established, but it was the early 1900’s or so. The cab dropped us off about 50 years from the place. It was still raining significantly. FNE and I made a mad dash for the bar awning and by the time I got there I was soaked. SLSIL has the umbrella so she was just fine. We didn’t care though; we were in for a treat. Nice little quaint bar and dining area and absolutely fantastic Pinot Noir.

Because of the rain, we knew Friday would be super clear. So SLSIL and I got up and headed to the Empire State Building. I had been down there earlier in the week to check it out and saw the line was 2.5 hours long. So we wanted to get an early start to avoid the lines. And avoid the lines we did. It maybe took us 30 minutes to get in the building, buy our tickets, wind our way up to the elevators and onto the observation deck (which for the record is 102 stories high). What a view. FNE was right, you could see forever…well, at least into Jersey. It was spectacular. To see all of Manhattan laid out below you like a maze was truly a breath taking sight. I felt all Sleepless In Seattle up there…well, with the exception of no Tom Hanks and about 150 other people, but still. I knew instantly that I was in love with the massive city that was laid out before me. Like the Grand Canyon, pictures can’t do it justice.

Regaining our breath from the view, SLSIL and I braved the subway system ourselves. STSIL is surprisingly good at navigating the several thousand miles of underground transportation. We snaked our way to none other than Canal Street to by, of course, more purses. I realized at this point that I may need an intervention for the whole buying purses thing. I was hooked. But we got there and into a shop for “purses”. I still hade a few to buy for other people, but I couldn’t pass up the Pink and Black Gucci bag. I just couldn’t. It called to me. It “made” me buy it. And its sooo damn cute.

While SLSIL and I were wondering after my purchases, a woman came to us and asked us if we wanted to buy purses and to follow her. SLSIL and I follow, only this lady was leading us away from the main drag and down a road that just didn’t seem right. My hair stood up on my neck and I knew we should turn around. Finally, I spoke up and told SLSIL that we were not going that way. Try as the woman might, she really wanted us to come with her, we headed back. Who knows what would have been waiting for us.

Regardless, we were hustled into another “back” room – though neither of these were quite as “back” room as the one the day or so before. LV, Gucci, Prada bags in hand, we were off. Next stop: Bloomingdales.

I’ve never been in a Bloomingdales and I think I’m very glad there is not one in the general states around me. SLSIL twisted my arm to buy things. She did. I swear. She decided to do a quick make-up make over, so as I was sitting (resting my feet actually since they hurt like crazy); Victor the make-up artist was assisting SLSIL, but could have sold me ocean front property in Arizona. He was so fun and easy going. $100 later I had new make-up brushes, eye concealer and lip gloss. God I love NY.

We rounded out our shopping spree at Macy’s. SLSIL was looking for some cute little items for her granddaughter – aka my Great Niece. We had just a few minutes to spare to make it back to the hotel, dump our loot and off to meet FNE for dinner. He had told me the night before to take the Red #1 subway from 42nd and 6th to get us to his neck of the woods. SLSIN and I walked to 42nd and saw no Red #1 subway train. But we were old pros at this by now, so surely we could get to Soho from here. Down into the bowels of NY we went searching for a train that would take us south. We asked the attendant who pointed us to the “V” train. Easy enough, it’ll drop us off on Houston Street, which was where we were to meet FNE.

15 minute ride, and we are at the end of the line. They announce we must depart. Which was fine considering it was Houston street anyhow. We ascend to the light and SLSIL says, “huh, this doesn’t seem like our type of neighborhood.” And in fact, it was a bit unlike where we would have preferred to be. So instead of trying to figure out which way to go we call FNE and ask where to meet him. Once we explain where we are we hear this, “Dude, how’d you get there?” Which meant of course we were no where near where we should have been. FNE suggested we get in a cab and head to Houston and Hudson. A $7 cab ride later we find FNE. We were no where near where we should have been. He gave us such crap all night. Though he did admit that he mayhap directed us incorrectly to the subway location.

We wondered through Greenwich for 30 minutes or so. We had reservations for dinner and had some time to kill. We found this amazing bakery that’s “famous” called Magnolia’s, who specialized in cupcakes…and specialize they do. We bought 3 for dessert and made our way to dinner. Tonight’s cuisine was Cuban. This little tiny, dinky restaurant…Havanna. Again, amazing food. Oh and the pitcher of Sangria was out of this world.

Stomachs full, we hopped a cab to the theater district to see Dirty Rotten Scoundrels. A hilarious show to be sure. I found my sides aching at times from laughing so much.

Oh I almost forgot. While walking around after dinner, SLSIL “forced” us to go into this up scale grocery store. I had to find a restroom anyhow, so why not. As we were leaving though I saw a star. And not just any star, but Vizzini. You know, from Princess Bride.

Saturday dawned another beautiful sunny day. The humidity, thank god, had gone away. It was just sunny and about 75F. Perfect weather for trekking around NYC.

We hopped another subway, navigated expertly by SLSIL. Off at City Hall. Beautiful buildings this City Hall. This area is where Law&Order is filled. I’m not a huge fan, but it is fun to see places in person that you see on TV all the time. It makes TV more real.

A short walk to the West and we found ourselves at Ground Zero. We walked through this amazing church called St. Paul’s Cathedral. This church is basically in the “blast” direction of most the dust and rubble. Yet miraculously it sustained no damage. Instead it became a haven for the service men and women who were working at Ground Zero. It offered them a place to rest themselves and get food and water. This was a moving moment to me. Hundreds of thank you cards, art work of appreciation and courageous words decorated this church.

Ground Zero itself was nothing spectacular. It’s no longer a hole in the ground or anything other than a construction site. What was amazing, however, was the expansiveness of it. To be able to stand there and see just how large these buildings were and how much area they took up. That, in and of itself, was truly humbling.

We then started walking, I think, south toward the Brooklyn Bridge. Our goal was to walk out to the middle and get spectacular photos of Manhattan and the East side. And that we did. The bridge itself is truly breath taking. I know I’ve said this time and again on my journey in NY, but the architecture here is stunning and brilliant.

By this time, my feet were screaming for me to stop. Stop punishing them any further. I suggested we stop for lunch and then go about our business. A small little bar just down from there was a great place to stop and have a bite and a rest. My poor feet. They were tingling so much that the tingle was working its way up my legs, through my body and out my eyes. I know, that sounds weird. But I could feel the pain through my eyes it was that bad. These feet, apparently, were done seeing NYC.

Then came the highlight of my trip. Okay, maybe not really, but it was, for me, a treat. We found the Chelsea Market. If you’re a Food TV fan you know the Chelsea Market. Not only is the network located there, but it’s the most amazing market I had ever seen. It wasn’t at all what I expected as I had the image of an actual open air market in my mind. Instead it was specialty shop after specialty shop of amazing new items that were beckoning for me to try, taste, or buy. At the end of the market we found the Food TV network doors. SLSIL, also a FN fan, and I had to have our photo taken there. We just had to.

After the Chelsea Market, I begged for a break. Pleaded really. SLSIL just wanted to go, go, go…as did I, but my feet had other plans. Having some sympathy for me, we subway’ed ourselves back to the hotel. Dropped our bags, and let our feet relax a bit. But SLSIL wouldn’t allow that for long. She had some kind of ants in her pants. Soon we found ourselves walking to Central Park. It was a beautiful evening, so why not.

Once at CP I suggested that we do a horse drawn carriage ride. I had, effectively, done everything else in NYC that I wanted, this was just icing on the very adventurous cake. Charlie, our horse, drug us through the beautiful park. His “owner”, Emmett, occasionally adding in tour guide items and pointing out landmarks. That was another 30 minutes rest for my weary footsies.

But dinner was to be had yet. We walked the rest of 5th Ave. The side of 5th Ave that I will never shop in, nor any of my relatives. Why couldn’t we be from old money? FNE drug us into this hotel exclaiming that a place that served the best burgers ever was inside. I couldn’t see how, but what the hell. And sure enough, in a dark hall way we say a little, tiny, neon sign that simply read “Burgers” with an arrow pointing to the right. Inside the door, and sure enough, a burger joint. In fact, called “Burger Joint”. It was a tiny hole in the wall, that truly did serve up on helluva burger.

Full, happy, sore feet, and ready for a drink, we found an Irish pub and sat and watched some sports. While sitting, (I have to tell you this story) a young man – maybe mid twenties – walked in carrying a teddy bear over his shoulder. He sat at the bar in front of us. It was clear to all of us that he wasn’t playing with a full deck when he placed the teddy bear on the bar and said to it, “You okay?” Whatever. He ordered a shot, almost choked on it. Paid his bill – not tipping the waitress accordingly because he felt she was rude to him. Though he stated “You probably think I’m a whack job, and I am.” No argument here. Clearly a whack job. But amusing and only in NY was all I could think.

So my NY adventure has come to an end. I’m sitting in the airport awaiting my flight – delayed of course. I’m so tired, and in a way ready to come home. But after this last week I’m not sure how Seattle can compare to this city called New York.

Thursday, August 10, 2006

The Little Girl gets unleashed

At dinner last night, I retold my story from the other night of going into the “hidden back room” to a few co-workers (who shall remain nameless to protect their innocence – cough cough choke choke. For literally purposes we’ll call them Accomplice Gal 1, and Accomplice Gal 2 – AC for short). AC1 and AC2 twisted my arm to take them to buy purses. I didn’t wanna go, I swear…I went kicking and screaming the entire way. I swear.

We three hailed a cab and off to Canal street we went. Our first attempt to buy “purses” was a flop. The store owner didn’t want to show us her “back room”…so we moved on. Two stores down a small Asian woman asked if we wanted to see her purses. Well, of course. We were, after all, on a search for a bargain.

To the back of the nameless store we went (all these stores are lined on this street and none of them appear to have names or addresses). In the back we saw a wall. Just a wall. Nothing that resembled a door. Then as the thought crossed my mind this door swung open. We were ushered into a small room we’ll call a “holding pin”. Three of us and this little Asian woman all in a small room the size of a closet. My mind was racing with what exactly was going on. There were a few purses, but nothing that seemed like what I had seen the night before. The thought barely cleared my mind when I noticed the small Asian woman removing shelves and bags from a wall. Then a small half door opened. We were then directed to “crawl” through this half door. What the hell was I doing? Inside was a welcoming site…purse upon purse upon purse. There were so many. I was like a kid in a candy store. If I weren’t in public the little girl inside me would have been jumping up and down clapping giddy like.

Anyone who really knows me knows I’m a total purse whore. I love purses. I have several and I love the idea of being able to swap them out at any given time. So going into this room was my dream come true.

$200 later we left. Back into the “holding pin”. The little Asian woman pulled out a walkie talkie to call outside to make sure the coast was clear to come out. Out we came. Bags in hand.

$200 got me
3 “Prada”clutch size bags
4 “Kate Spade” handbags medium size
3 “Kate Spade” hand bags, a bit larger
1 “Burberry bag”
1 “Prada” wallet
1 “Burberry” wallet.

No, they aren’t all for me. I took orders remember. Well, okay one, or two of the Kate Spade’s might be mine. The Burberry bag and wallet are definitely mine. I'm already using them.

If you get any collect calls from the NY State Prison system, answer it. It might be me asking you to donate money for my bail.

Tuesday, August 08, 2006

The Jenn Wears Prada

Day one of the full on show. What a success. All has gone off without a hitch. As if I had any concerns. Here's a picture of the booth without anyone in it. I think it looks pretty nice. It looked better with people in it. And people in it we had.

Tradeshows, especially techy ones, are hours of entertainment and people watching. This one is no different. I expected the normal nerdy / geeky guys. That's a given in this industry. I didn't expect the old ladies that are like 100 years old. Man. There were about a half of dozen of them today and I was constantly afraid I was going to have to call 911 to get them oxygen or something. The new and rare item that was spotted today were HOT men. Not so common in this industry, and even more rare in product groups at the big software coming in Redmond. Yet, I found myself gazing, longingly at several today. One of the SpeechTEK gals has a "Best in Show" contest she's running. My mission, should I choose to endure it, is to pick a Best In Show tomorrow. Oh the trials one must go though.

After the show, myself and three gals from SpeechTEK all headed off to Little Italy for another titantic dining experience. I took them to the same place FNE took me (Favorite Nephew Ever for those of you just joining us). We ate just as much though I swore I wouldn't.

Yah so after the amazing dinner we had, I attempted to find the bakery for the cannoli FNE made me eat last time. Thankfully I couldn't find it. So we all waddled onward.


Instead, I found myself in a small back room of a shop who were selling "purses". It appears to be no secret that these "fake" purses are sold throughout this area, yet I found it amusing that we had to go into this secret back door to look at them. All the while I was thinking, "I'm gonna end up in jail with a cell mate who likes her women bigger." Not to be intimidated by this "illegal" act I was committing, I bought a Prada hand bag. Now, please notice...IT'S PINK!!!! t matches my phone. Oh stop groaning, you know you would have done the same thing. If you think you might want one, let me know and I'll see what I can come up with. They have Gucci, Kate Spade, Prada (like mine) Chanel, Louis Vitton, everything and in every color.

Monday, August 07, 2006

These vagabond shoes, are longing to stray

Holy Speech Recognition Batman! What a day! Up and on the floor by 7AM to help complete the build out of the booth. 99% of it was together, but we had some last minute graphic changes to make. Ironically, the big boss came down for like 30 seconds and happened to pick out the ONE thing that we were changing and called it out as wrong. I doubt I'll hear a "You did a great job." on this one from him. Though I feel pretty darn good on how this whole thing has turned out. Monica left me a ton of great notes and tips. She gets most the credit.

I left the hotel for all of 2 minutes today to grab a quick lunch. Me and the "Dirty Water Dogs" are getting a long well. $2 for a dog...can't beat that. And I'm trying very hard to not think about what could be in it. So don't even think about leaving a comment about how gross hot dogs are. I'm not listening.

My life for the next two days will be speech recognition and nothing more.

Oh and I'm peeling. Goody!

Sunday, August 06, 2006

My Little Town blues....are melting away...

New York has a power all unto itself. An energy that just pulls at you and demands a "I am woman hear me roar" attitude.

Before leaving Seattle, I felt lacking in the confidence arena. Encounters with big boss left me feeling less than adequate. Yet, here, I feel as if nothing will stop this from putting a W in the column of life experiences.

Cute contractor guy met me this morning to go over the build out of the booth. He then promptly gave me several "suggested" spots to dine without the tourist. (Side bar here: I found myself yesterday wondering around Time Square and saying things like, "F*cking Tourists" as they got in my way.) Anyhow, CCG has everything under control. He's even called me every 40 minutes or so to let me know the status of the booth. In that case, I'm headin' out into the great wild yonder that's called NY.

I scoped out this restaurant we will be having our morale dinner at on Wednesday (Trattoria Dopo Teatro). I thought it prudent to make sure it wasn't a dive and the website described it perfectly. And I thought I might want a map for the team so they can find it. Anyhow, on the way back this "tourist" stopped me by saying, "You look like you live here, can you tell me where Macy's is?" Mouth dangling by the shock of "you look like you live here" I spouted off the directions. Because, in fact, I was a full fledged New Yorker now according to my FNE (Favorite Nephew Ever). Later I recounted this story to FNE and he laughed and told me Macy's was no where near where I told the woman. I told her 42nd and 5th...FNE reminded me of the moving "Miracle on 34th Street" Right, 34th Street. Oh well, I felt like I knew where I was sending her. (FNE later "tested" me on my directional ability about NY. I think I failed.)

FNE met me today to take me to Chinatown for an amazing meal. We hopped the subway and ended up walking through most of Chinatown. Soooo many people. I don't like crowds as a rule, and this was crowded. But FNE kept plodding us on toward the little slice of Chinese heaven we'd be dining at. The smells that assaulted me through this hike left something to be desired, I must say. But, into this "dive" we go and I was no where prepared for the delish meal that would send my taste buds into overdrive. I let FNE order since he'd been there before and since Adventurous Jenn is out in full force lately, why not try something new. He ordered these steamed dumpling things that had pork and crab in them ( When the waitress put the plate of steaming dumplings in front of us, my first thought was, "those look like testicles". I couldn't tell FNE they looked like testicles since I figured as a guy he might think that's gross. What? They did look like testicles...Scouts honor!). We then had chow mein with "meats" and shrimp. "Meats", I believe, translated into chicken and pork - I didn't really want to ask. And I couldn't figure out why "shrimp" wasn't classified as "meat". Anyhow, finally rounding out our meal we had General Tsao's. Can I just say, without risking repeating myself, Oh. My. God! I can't even begin to describe how out of this world amazing the flavors were in this food. Testicles and all. In the words of Rachel Ray, "YUM-O!"

After our feast, which by the way only cost the two of us $23 - cheap, we marched our way through SoHo. The streets were lined with "artists" selling their masterpieces. There were some amazing art out there. Too bad I didn't have $400 to spend on a unframed print. There were some real gems out there.

Trekking through SoHo, through Little Italy, and into another subway, we found ourselves back in Time Square - well thanks to FNE because coming off the subway I would have zigged where I should have zagged and wouldn't have ended up anywhere near the hotel.

I decided after a day of walking through what felt like ALL of NY, I would dine in tonight. Me and my sore feet drug ourselves down to the hotel restaurant, Encore. I ordered a simple Turkey Club sandwich that came with chips. $16! Yes you read that correctly. $16. Ironically, I decided to not order room service because I couldn't believe they would charge me $16 for a sandwich.

Samir - my cute waiter - was the real treat though. As he poured my water he asked if I wanted anything to drink (heavy on some Mediterranean accent - maybe Greek). I smiled and ordered a diet coke. He tilted his head to the left and stated with authority, "You have a beautiful smile." And I thought, "You just got yourself a big tip." Yes it crossed my mind he says that to all the girls...but I didn't care. An older lady sat in the table next to me and he didn't say it to her, so there. After eating every morsel of my $16 sandwich, Samir approached and said, "While I am sure you are sweet enough, would you like dessert?" Have I ever told you about my "thing" for dark skin, dark eyes, full accent guys? Yah, well, now you know. While I had to deny Samir his opportunity to "flirt" with me through a dessert course, I thanked him and flashed a 9.0 smile on the richter scale. And then slipped him my room key. OH pipe down, I'm just checking to see if you were still paying attention to this massive post.

And in other note-worthy news, not a peep from the crush in 7 days. This just reaffirms my thought that I need to have this chat. And since I have all this new found confidence courtesy of NY it shouldn't be too hard. I should check, though, the local souvenir shops to see if they sell "confidence" in a bottle. It'd be handy back in Seattle. I'm just saying.

Oh one other note. EXACTLY one year ago today (almost to the minute) I became a Project Management Professional (PMP). I'm one of 180,000 PMPs worldwide. Hmm, how small my significance now seems. But no worries...I am a PMP...for a year now.

Saturday, August 05, 2006

Start spreadin' the news...

Everything you've heard about NY is true. It's fast paced, high energy, and oh so much to see. The last two days have been nonstop enjoyment. I'm hot. I'm tired. My feet hurt. I'm dehydrate and I'm sunburn. But I can't stop. I'm addicted to NY. I can't even find the words that describes this city that never sleeps.

I had dinner last night with a younger, handsome gentleman - Favorite Nephew Ever (FNE) Stephen- who picked me up at my hotel and showed me NY - in a New Yorker's manner...we walked. We left the Marriott in Time Square and headed, I believe, North-ish. I can't really tell here which direction is what...no mountains or water - well there's water but you can't see it. Anyhow, he took me up to Central Park. We wondered around there and 5th Avenue. All the while the FNE being the perfect, seasoned New Yorker tour guide. We hopped in a cab and headed to Little Italy. One of the items on my list of things to do in my life was to have dinner in Little Italy. And so we did, but not before walking through Soho. Very chic and expensive shops everywhere. The atmosphere there is so unlike what I've been experiencing in Time Square. Time Square, FNE told me, is really a drag because it is such a small part, recognizable part, but small part of the whole NY picture. And now, after the last two days, I get what he's saying.

Anyhow, back to dinner in Little Italy. Oh. My. God. Can I just say I swore I'd never eat again after the meal we had? (and yet I found myself seduced by NY pizza today) FNE picked the best restaurant and ordered this 4 course family style meal. It was after the first course (Caprese Salad - FRESH mozzarella and tomatoes) I knew I was going to be in trouble. And we were. Pay special note to the massive bottle of wine I'm holding in the photo. Interesting thing they do in Little Italy restaurants. When you order you tell them what type of wine - in this case FNE ordered red. The plunked this - relatively full, but opened - bottle of wine in front of us. They charge you based on how much wine is left in the bottle when you're done. Then say if a table next to us, after we've left of course, orders red wine, they'll put that bottle there for them to drink from. Very unwasteful I gotta say. Though FNE and I did a pretty good job of this bottle.

Stuffed to the gills and swearing off food for the rest of our lives, FNE, then announces we *must* try this cannoli from a bakery around the corner. Huh? What? Didn't we just say we would never eat again? But alas FNE was again right. We ordered two mini canolli's...a little slice of heaven I gotta say.

Then to finish off my initiation in becoming a New Yorker, FNE took me on the subway. We gotta get us one of these in Seattle. I'm just saying. Cheap and quick. He promised to show me a subway rat, but we found nothing...darn it - okay so secretly glad we didn't.

By the end of day one, FNE announced that I had officially become a New Yorker in that I had:
1) eaten a "dirty water dog" from a vendor on the street
2) eaten in Little Italy
3) Walked just about everywhere
and
4) ridden the subway

Yesterday I did the Midtown/Downtown bus tour. I sat atop a double decker bus as it drove through the lower part of Manhattan. Excellent way to get in most the sites with little time.

This morning, though, was what I wanted to do most...harbor cruise around Manhattan. I'm so very thankful that 1) I got up early enough for the first cruise and 2) I got up early enough to at least beat some of the heat. It was amazing to see all sides of Manhattan, Brooklyn, Harlem (upper tip of Manhattan island), and the Bronx all on a 3 hour tour. (I know what you're doing...you're singing the Gilligan's island theme...I've been doing it all day). I was supposed to take the Uptown bus tour, but missed the last bus by just minutes. I then decided to wonder up and down the streets in the area to find something to eat. And I did...NY style Pizza. Burp! Nothing fancy, just good ol' fashion cheese.

A strange thing is happening to me today too. I woke up with the annoying and ever so presence pain in my SHINS! I think perhaps they are wondering what the hell I'm doing walking miles a day without first "training" to do so. The optimistic Jenn says to push through the burn. While the pansy Jenn says, "Tylenol. Take Tylenol." Guess which Jenn won?

Tomorrow I actually have to start working...darn it. Work always spoils all the fun.

Thursday, August 03, 2006

A date with the airport

And so it begins.

I'm not even at the gate yet and I'm assaulted with the information that 1) my bag is overweight ( it's a sensitive bag and now feels sad to hear its overweight) and 2) my flight that was scheduled to leave at 11:45pm won't be departing until 1:45AM. AM? Did they not get the memo that I'm old and surely have no way to stay awake until 1:45AM? The only good reason to stay awake that late is to either be with someone who's giving you a reason to be awake or watching a band or something? Otherwise that is a prime hour for sleep.

After I removed the projector I was transporting for work, and a book, my bag felt immediately better about itself. It's interesting that the projector and a book was about 10 lbs. Whodathunk? Only 52 lbs now and so fit into the "range" as noted by "Cisco" the ticket agent. What a horrible job that would be? But Cisco seemed undaunted by the hoards of people in line behind me and greeted each one with enthusiasm that can only be found in someone new on the job. Today was Cisco's 4th day.

Now, back to the problem of the delayed flight. What to do? Ah yes...my haven. Lucky for me my pal Bucky's (aka Starbucks) was still open for dispensing of the much needed caffeine. 20 oz Iced Vanilla Americano in hand - I'm good to go. Oh damn, there's a bar. That might have been better.

The airport is an interesting place. You get any number of oddities here - aka people. First off they shouldn't allow kids in the airport past 7pm. Especially if they're tired and cranky. Secondly, when did leg warmers come back into style? I mean really? Hello the 80's called, they want their fashion back. It's a shame really, without the warmers the rest of the outfit warn by a 55 year old isn't bad. Then there's this guy wondering aimlessly in front of me. He's dressed all in black except for his canvass vest with bulging pockets. Wait? What's in those pockets? I'll be watching that one closely.

The other "thing" that's been going on in my life is I can't shake this nagging feeling that I should have said something to the crush before I departed for this trip. It's this nonstop poking feeling in my noggin that just keeps saying,"What if you don't come back?" The pessimistic Jenn, of course, is worried about what that might actually mean. While the optimistic Jenn secretly hopes that means she'll meet a fabulous Italian guy while dining in little Italy, who will whisk her away to some place exotic, like Queens or Brooklyn.

So as I've been sitting in the airport people-watching I imagined a phone conversation going something like this.

"Yah hi crush, this is Jenn" and of course I wouldn't give him time to speak, I'd just launch into my rehearsed, eloquent speech.

I'd continue, "Every now and then I get these nagging feelings that I can't shake. It's like a hot poker in my noggin' demanding that I do something about it. I've learned from past experiences that they are gut feelings that rarely go away and that I need to pay attention to them.

"Of late that "gut" feeling has been related to you. And more importantly telling you that I've liked you for a very long time. And I just think you need to know that before I leave for NY.

"It shouldn't be a shock or a surprise to you, but, well I'm not the best flirt and you may, in fact, not have noticed. And if you've ever read my blog you certainly know. But, there you have it. "


And in my delusional world, he'd respond like any normal guy would in a positive and upbeat manner and say something witty like, "Good to know" Or "Oh, well that's nice."

I jest.

Give my Regards to Broadway

I'm embarking on my NY adventure tonight (red eye flight out - ugh). A little anxious, but excited.

Half of the trip will be for work and half for fun. It's the fun part with which you'll need to be concerned. Because I know you all would love to go with me and experience NY Jenn style, (camera in hand taking fab photos of anything and everything - my little keepsakes) I wanted to be sure you were all aware that I would be posting my adventures here on my blog. AS WELL AS, my new flicker site will contain photos of my NY adventure.

Don't be shy, check them out.
Photos: http://www.flickr.com/photos/jennwraspir/

All that being said its the 11th hour and Jenn, Queen of packing 14 weeks before a trip, has yet to pack. The small apartment (aka the suitcase) I'll be bringing with me has been sitting in the middle of the living room mocking me every night. I really don't want to pack. Which is weird for me considering I love packing.

Last night I moved the suitcase, after taking the cat out of it, to the room. That's a start right? I did put the "work" related items in the suitcase - so that's at least something.

The last day at work has been painful. I made a couple of what I consider minor mistakes - you know I'm human and all - which caused my main boss person to "lose trust in my abilities". Ouch! That's way harsh. As I mentioned, in my opinion the mistakes I made were not earth shattering, they were fixable, and really minor (forgot the dial in number for a meeting and had to run back to my office to get it - and - had a duplicate piece of information in a massive slide deck that's laden with content - see..not so bad). His concern is that I am not able to see the big picture of this tradeshow and he's worried that I'm not paying enough attention to detail. Ok. Got it! After his rant though, what existed of my confidence was gone. So naturally the next thing I had to do was for him.

Confidence taking a vacation, I dove into this next task. Once completed, I sent it to Stressed Boss and told him in bold letters - THIS IS A DRAFT. I wanted him to glance through it and let me know if I'm on the right track. I didn't want to continue if what I was doing wasn't anywhere near what he wanted. His response mirrored the rant of earlier. So at this point, I need to work EXTRA hard to gain his trust back. I know he's super stressed...I get it. I'm super stressed and am therefore taking things more personally than I should. But good grief.

In other news, I've not heard hide nor hair from the crush since Sunday. But that doesn't surprise me too terrible much. (Where'd that phrase "hide nor hair" come from anyhow?")

Tuesday, August 01, 2006

And this from the Yahoo Swami

"Believe it or not, you're ready to take a risk. Actually, it's not even a risk -- you know the price of staying exactly where you are is just too much. Move toward what genuinely moves you. Don't stop 'til you get there. "

Is there no one out there who's on my side? Even the stars are pushing me.

Fine. Okay I'll tell him.

Crush! I like you.

There I did it. Satisfied?

NY State of Mind - Capital is Chaos

I got it.

I get it.

I hear ya.

Sheesh! I never would have thought my posting my mini-adventure with the crush would unleash the savages that are my readers. I love it! 9 comments on one post. That's a Jenn's Doings All Time High. If I had known what a rush of feedback I'd get, I would have done this sooner...now I'm addicted to the feedback and will need to give you all what you are so hankering for....the beans.

Will our heroine's flirtatious-ness land her the man? Will the man get it? Will our dynamic duo finally see that they are dancing around each other? Stay tuned to find out. (That's what they call the hook in TV land so you'll tune in to see what really happens. )

From what I can gather the basic message from the lot of you is to stop wasting my time fishing and jump the crush. Got it. But it'll have to wait until AFTER NY. Maybe I'll ask the Wizard in NY for courage.

Speaking of NY, life at work is complete chaos. We made a major announcement this week internally that has everyone all a flutter. AND this announcement has helped to send my world of event planning into a complete tizzy. Have to change our message now. Ugh. So here I am in stressville here and have nothing to wear.

I will be posting from NY - for a couple of reasons. First off, this blog acts as a sudo journal. And secondly, I want to be sure to share any embarrassing and madcap stories with everyone. Because I guarantee me being in NY by myself for a couple of days, and then dealing with union people for three days, and then spending some "site seeing" / "shopping" time with my sister-in-law is surely going to be righteous blogging material.

I will be posting all my photos on my new Flicker site: http://www.flickr.com/photos/jennwraspir/

Go. Check it out.

I have posted all my worthy photography up there that I currently have scanned in. I decided awhile ago that I wanted to be sure all my "photography" pictures were online some place, in the event that some day I might sell a piece or two. That and I don't have the negatives anywhere to speak of so I should have it "backed up" somewhere.

On another note - I got to actually be a sudo teacher last night. Friend Claudia had some other business to take care of and so asked me to "sub" for her for the Practicum Class. Which really meant just hanging out and "listening" to them talk amongst themselves and trying to add intelligent feedback in the end. But as it turned out, I did a lot more than that. See the Practicum class is doing a project for the association of which I am President (all hale President Jenn). And so I found myself adding my two cents in more than I probably should. But they were struggling...and I just had to help them. In the end, it was fine, but I do feel a wee bit guilty in that I might have distracted them a bit. Its all good though. I'm going to NY.