Posts
Day 2 was a decent day. I slept in late on the air mattress, mostly because I did not sleep well (probably a combination of new place and air mattress).
Still no hot water, so no showering. I got dressed, organized a list for the day, and headed out. First it was off to Lowe's to return the garage door opener remote and to purchase a few small items (door stops, screwdriver, and hammer). Then it was off to Sam's to look at beds and research delivery options. Lunch was at White Castle--yum! I then visited several offices in town in order to file a mortgage exemption for my property taxes--this went very smoothly and probably deserves its own entry later.
The selling real estate agent met me to look at the water heater--no luck. I've been promised that I will have a working water heater by the time I return from vacation.
After a quick trip to the bank, I installed the door stops on all doors in preparation for move-in day when I return. Then I packed up and hit the road for Ohio. Another long night drive, but good to be home for the holidays.
That's it for now. More to come after the holidays.
Friday, December 24, 2010
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Homeowner: Day 1
I took possession of my house today--yay! Although I am officially "living" in the house, I won't actually be "moved into" the house until Dec. 30 when I come back from Ohio with movers and a giant truck. Yes, all of my stuff is still in storage. So, tonight includes an air mattress, camping chair, and iPod.
I've retreated to IHOP for dinner and internet access.
I attempted to be at work today, but was derailed more than anticipated. I moved out of my apartment Tuesday morning and spent Tuesday night in a hotel with my car COMPLETELY packed (the only place for my laptop was under my legs in front of the driver's seat). As such, I desperately needed to unload the car. I did that around 11am immediately after closing. At the very least, I wanted to get the water turned on and the water lines cleared. In retrospect, I should have better checked for hot water.
When I unpacked the car, it marked the first time having my car empty since July! Life on the road is over!
First hiccup--smoke detectors beeping. They are wired into the house, but the backup batteries were dead. So, it was off to Lowe's for batteries, a shovel, and salt for the driveway. I went to Lowe's because I also wanted to schedule delivery for my refrigerator (Dec. 31). I also purchased a programmable remote for my garage door opener. I really should have bought a step ladder, but I refuse since I already own two (in storage, in Ohio).
Back home, I used a cooler as a step stool and replaced the detector batteries: FIXED. I shoveled the driveway a bit and put down some salt. I attempted to program the garage remote, but no luck. Then it was off to work, but I stopped for lunch on the way (I had not eaten all day, and it was about 2pm).
Work was work--I was the only person on our floor, and I managed to finish a project.
Back home around 6pm. I christened the master bath, and quickly discovered that there was no hot water. In the morning, I *thought* I felt warm water as I was clearing the lines, but apparently not. I did everything I could to troubleshoot (which is not much with an electric heater), but no luck. Long story short, after a few phone calls, the selling agent agreed to come out tomorrow; I have an insurance policy for this problem, but they may not cover because one stipulation is that the item be in working order at the start of the policy--that is in question. So, no hot water tonight.
Amidst all of the evening phone calls, I discovered that my cell connection is *much* worse than I believed before. I suspect I will be highly reliant upon MagicJack for phone service at home.
I also continued efforts to program the garage remote. This involved phone calls to computers, and struggling with internet on my phone to get user manuals for my opener. It apparently is the wrong frequency--I just ordered a replacement online for almost the same price. Back to Lowe's for a return!
Oh, more story...during this process, a wire apparently came loose from the opener, so I could not open the garage door at all (and, yes, my car was in the garage). I quickly discovered the problem and used a knife from my golf bag to fix the problem. BROKEN and FIXED.
BTW, I'm very thankful for the golf-bag knife. My tools are in storage, and I did not buy any at Lowe's (yet).
That's probably enough excitement for one day. I'm going to finish my meal and head back home. I need to inflate my air mattress, put on some sheets, and then settle down for a long winters nap.
Tomorrow's excitement:
I've retreated to IHOP for dinner and internet access.
I attempted to be at work today, but was derailed more than anticipated. I moved out of my apartment Tuesday morning and spent Tuesday night in a hotel with my car COMPLETELY packed (the only place for my laptop was under my legs in front of the driver's seat). As such, I desperately needed to unload the car. I did that around 11am immediately after closing. At the very least, I wanted to get the water turned on and the water lines cleared. In retrospect, I should have better checked for hot water.
When I unpacked the car, it marked the first time having my car empty since July! Life on the road is over!
First hiccup--smoke detectors beeping. They are wired into the house, but the backup batteries were dead. So, it was off to Lowe's for batteries, a shovel, and salt for the driveway. I went to Lowe's because I also wanted to schedule delivery for my refrigerator (Dec. 31). I also purchased a programmable remote for my garage door opener. I really should have bought a step ladder, but I refuse since I already own two (in storage, in Ohio).
Back home, I used a cooler as a step stool and replaced the detector batteries: FIXED. I shoveled the driveway a bit and put down some salt. I attempted to program the garage remote, but no luck. Then it was off to work, but I stopped for lunch on the way (I had not eaten all day, and it was about 2pm).
Work was work--I was the only person on our floor, and I managed to finish a project.
Back home around 6pm. I christened the master bath, and quickly discovered that there was no hot water. In the morning, I *thought* I felt warm water as I was clearing the lines, but apparently not. I did everything I could to troubleshoot (which is not much with an electric heater), but no luck. Long story short, after a few phone calls, the selling agent agreed to come out tomorrow; I have an insurance policy for this problem, but they may not cover because one stipulation is that the item be in working order at the start of the policy--that is in question. So, no hot water tonight.
Amidst all of the evening phone calls, I discovered that my cell connection is *much* worse than I believed before. I suspect I will be highly reliant upon MagicJack for phone service at home.
I also continued efforts to program the garage remote. This involved phone calls to computers, and struggling with internet on my phone to get user manuals for my opener. It apparently is the wrong frequency--I just ordered a replacement online for almost the same price. Back to Lowe's for a return!
Oh, more story...during this process, a wire apparently came loose from the opener, so I could not open the garage door at all (and, yes, my car was in the garage). I quickly discovered the problem and used a knife from my golf bag to fix the problem. BROKEN and FIXED.
BTW, I'm very thankful for the golf-bag knife. My tools are in storage, and I did not buy any at Lowe's (yet).
That's probably enough excitement for one day. I'm going to finish my meal and head back home. I need to inflate my air mattress, put on some sheets, and then settle down for a long winters nap.
Tomorrow's excitement:
- hope that the water heater problem is resolved
- return the garage opener remote
- buy light bulbs
- attempt to resolve a property tax issue before leaving town
- buy a bed for the guest room?
- make a decision on whether or not to purchase cable tv along with my internet
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Single at Sam's
For the first time in my life, I'm working a full-time job without a college meal plan. I've had plenty of experience shopping and cooking over breaks and summers, and also during my most recent unemployment Winter-Summer 2010. Still, mixing it together with the job is...well, it's adult.
Anyway, after years of tagging along with my parents at Sam's Club and piggy-backing on their membership, I decided to take the membership dive. So, now come the two questions: will I actually save money, and can I make it worth my while as a single consumer. Answering the first question involves a boring spreadsheet, but I did save over $11 in week one.
As for the second question, I'm thinking there might be some writing material regarding my creativity with bulk foods. Keep in mind that I am currently living in a small apartment with a limited number of dishes, spices, etc.
Week 1: Pot Roast (sorry, I can't find a pic of the actual product)
This puppy is pre-cooked and serves 8 people. The first night started out as straight-forward pot roast with pierogies (I love pierogies). The leftovers were too plentiful for a storage container, so they went into the fridge in a cooking pot (for easy re-heating, too). After a few little snack nibbles, the next roast meal was a breakfast--pot roast omelet. Although it turned out more like scrambled eggs, mmmmm tasty! The third roast meal was burritos--correction, fried tacos. I used flat tortillas and fried them in a skillet to make two very meaty tacos. Three meals down, more meat to use. Tonight (meal four) was beef and pasta--a variation on beef tips and noodles but using shredded beef and rotini pasta. I'm not sure I would have made it quite this way for guests, but I was very pleased! There's going to be a meal five, but I mixed all of the meat in with pasta, so #5 will be leftovers of #4.
Not very glamorous, but 5 single-person meals (4 unique) out of one Sam's entree that cost less than $12. If only it had less sodium.
Fortunately, the meatballs I purchased were packaged in two separate sealed bags ;-)
Anyway, after years of tagging along with my parents at Sam's Club and piggy-backing on their membership, I decided to take the membership dive. So, now come the two questions: will I actually save money, and can I make it worth my while as a single consumer. Answering the first question involves a boring spreadsheet, but I did save over $11 in week one.
As for the second question, I'm thinking there might be some writing material regarding my creativity with bulk foods. Keep in mind that I am currently living in a small apartment with a limited number of dishes, spices, etc.
This puppy is pre-cooked and serves 8 people. The first night started out as straight-forward pot roast with pierogies (I love pierogies). The leftovers were too plentiful for a storage container, so they went into the fridge in a cooking pot (for easy re-heating, too). After a few little snack nibbles, the next roast meal was a breakfast--pot roast omelet. Although it turned out more like scrambled eggs, mmmmm tasty! The third roast meal was burritos--correction, fried tacos. I used flat tortillas and fried them in a skillet to make two very meaty tacos. Three meals down, more meat to use. Tonight (meal four) was beef and pasta--a variation on beef tips and noodles but using shredded beef and rotini pasta. I'm not sure I would have made it quite this way for guests, but I was very pleased! There's going to be a meal five, but I mixed all of the meat in with pasta, so #5 will be leftovers of #4.
Not very glamorous, but 5 single-person meals (4 unique) out of one Sam's entree that cost less than $12. If only it had less sodium.
Fortunately, the meatballs I purchased were packaged in two separate sealed bags ;-)
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Thanksgiving
I'm a day early for this post, but this is my available time. Part of me is sad this year because I'm remembering, and missing, the huge Thanksgiving meals we used to have at my grandparents' house. I miss Grandma and Grandpa, and I miss the family gathering.
On the other hand, there is so much for which to be thankful and celebrate this year. First off, I survived unemployment with money to spare, and I am somehow able to immediately purchase a house--THAT is HUGE! Of course, there's also the fact that I found a job that matches my interests extremely well without compromise, so that's a real blessing in such a crumby economy. For that matter, the job and the community are probably a better fit than I was aware or would have designed.
I certainly cannot forget my family. My parents, who continue to love and support me, and who gave me shelter [again] this summer as I transitioned--how wonderful! It's great that I'll be spending the holiday with them. Even though I won't be spending this holiday with other family, it is still a blessing to have such amazing love and support--looking forward to seeing everyone at Christmas.
Of course, I must be thankful for my friends, too. One thing I realized this summer is just how many amazing friends I have all over the country. It's fantastic! I'm actually pretty surprised that I ended up moving someplace where I don't know anyone (although I do know people who used to live here).
I'm sure there is much more for which I should and will give thanks, but that should suffice for now. Since I'm thankful for a job, I should get to bed so I can go to work on time and rested in the morning.
Love, peace, and joy to all this holiday season!
On the other hand, there is so much for which to be thankful and celebrate this year. First off, I survived unemployment with money to spare, and I am somehow able to immediately purchase a house--THAT is HUGE! Of course, there's also the fact that I found a job that matches my interests extremely well without compromise, so that's a real blessing in such a crumby economy. For that matter, the job and the community are probably a better fit than I was aware or would have designed.
I certainly cannot forget my family. My parents, who continue to love and support me, and who gave me shelter [again] this summer as I transitioned--how wonderful! It's great that I'll be spending the holiday with them. Even though I won't be spending this holiday with other family, it is still a blessing to have such amazing love and support--looking forward to seeing everyone at Christmas.
Of course, I must be thankful for my friends, too. One thing I realized this summer is just how many amazing friends I have all over the country. It's fantastic! I'm actually pretty surprised that I ended up moving someplace where I don't know anyone (although I do know people who used to live here).
I'm sure there is much more for which I should and will give thanks, but that should suffice for now. Since I'm thankful for a job, I should get to bed so I can go to work on time and rested in the morning.
Love, peace, and joy to all this holiday season!
Monday, November 22, 2010
New Beginning
Oddly, although I don't have much keeping me occupied in my spare time, I have not been inspired to write. Apologies extended to my readers.
I've been at ISU and in Terre Haute now for just over a week. In my first day at ISU, I received an ISU t-shirt and a label pin from HR, and received a welcome card from the president later in the week. I'm sure I'll discover the usual junk and politics down the road, but it's nice to have a welcoming start! The first week was a pretty casual mix of reading stuff to get my bearings, getting things organized, and attending meetings. I did co-facilitate a seminar on Thursday, so it has not been extremely slow. The lack of any fiery baptismal is making it a little tough to judge the whole scene, but I'm pretty sure I'm in a good place and a good job.
Home life is OK. I'm living in a one-bedroom, furnished university apartment that is pretty decent although the couch has much to be desired (which is the only seating beyond "dining" chairs) and the floor is all tile. On the flip side, it's the nicest tiny kitchen I've ever encountered. House purchasing continues to move right along, and closing should still happen around Dec. 6. I still have not made arrangements for moving all of my stuff from Ohio (storage).
The "stuff" and home factor are both making this a slow start. I don't have a home in which to get settled, and I don't have any of my office stuff for the workplace. So, "home" and work are both pretty sterile right now. All in due time, though.
Wireless internet is certainly nice, though, and I've enjoyed having my Facebook connections and online chats! At some point, I need to get out and about in Terre Haute--and even around ISU--possibly meeting some people. With all of the transitions and holidays, though, I don't mind if that waits until 2011.
That's really about it for now. Oh, it turns out that my dissertation was posted online with a major typo on the title page! It looks like a revised copy is going to be uploaded, but my department at BG had to "cash in their chips" to make it happen. Oops. I'm happy for it, though. I can live with typos, but a title page reading "Doctor of Eduation" does not bode well for credibility.
OK, I really think that is all for now. I'll stay alert for creative moments and get some more writing up soon. Cheers!
I've been at ISU and in Terre Haute now for just over a week. In my first day at ISU, I received an ISU t-shirt and a label pin from HR, and received a welcome card from the president later in the week. I'm sure I'll discover the usual junk and politics down the road, but it's nice to have a welcoming start! The first week was a pretty casual mix of reading stuff to get my bearings, getting things organized, and attending meetings. I did co-facilitate a seminar on Thursday, so it has not been extremely slow. The lack of any fiery baptismal is making it a little tough to judge the whole scene, but I'm pretty sure I'm in a good place and a good job.
Home life is OK. I'm living in a one-bedroom, furnished university apartment that is pretty decent although the couch has much to be desired (which is the only seating beyond "dining" chairs) and the floor is all tile. On the flip side, it's the nicest tiny kitchen I've ever encountered. House purchasing continues to move right along, and closing should still happen around Dec. 6. I still have not made arrangements for moving all of my stuff from Ohio (storage).
The "stuff" and home factor are both making this a slow start. I don't have a home in which to get settled, and I don't have any of my office stuff for the workplace. So, "home" and work are both pretty sterile right now. All in due time, though.
Wireless internet is certainly nice, though, and I've enjoyed having my Facebook connections and online chats! At some point, I need to get out and about in Terre Haute--and even around ISU--possibly meeting some people. With all of the transitions and holidays, though, I don't mind if that waits until 2011.
That's really about it for now. Oh, it turns out that my dissertation was posted online with a major typo on the title page! It looks like a revised copy is going to be uploaded, but my department at BG had to "cash in their chips" to make it happen. Oops. I'm happy for it, though. I can live with typos, but a title page reading "Doctor of Eduation" does not bode well for credibility.
OK, I really think that is all for now. I'll stay alert for creative moments and get some more writing up soon. Cheers!
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Why I'm Still Single
The One I Seek (or Why I’m Still Single)
She loves the outdoors, especially aesthetically, preferring mountain or beach to city scape.
She enjoys leisurely hikes through the forest.
She will join me in learning to hang glide, even if it makes her nervous, or perhaps she becomes my teacher.
She enjoys the thrill of a roller coaster, the tranquility of a floating canoe, and the pure essence of a rose garden.
She plays golf, or at least would enjoy walks around a golf course just for the stroll.
She sips coffee or wine for relaxation in the moment rather than intoxication.
She is warmed by gentle caress upon her skin and hair, is excited for sexual exploration, and finds peace in warmth shared body to body naked in mid-day sunlight, glow of the moon, or aura of an evening fire.
She appreciates artistry and sees art naturally present in the world around her.
She is mentally, physically, and spiritually strong enough to solo navigate life’s journey, but would rather share the adventure.
She laughs often because it feels good, and her face is most natural with a smile.
She is passionately motivated by something beyond her self and is more concerned with what she gives and what she shares than what she receives.
She appreciates the journey far more than the destination.
She knows truth is love and love is truth.
She Is, and she Will Be, far more than she ever Was.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Time for Equality!
I'm fed up, pissed off, and ready to rant tonight. The US Senate blocked to opportunity to vote--TO VOTE--regarding Don't Ask, Don't Tell. For the love of humanity, when is the political machine of this country--my country--going to actively abandon prejudice and bigotry?!?!
Let's have a little test.
Scenario 1: two people love each other very much and decide to get married in a church (or someplace else if you wish). They live and grow together, and eventually start a family. As time passes, one spouse grows "tired" of the relationship and seeks rejuvenation through sexual exploits with other people to whom s/he is not married. As a result of the sexual exploits, the unfaithful spouse contracts a sexually transmitted disease and is hospitalized. The faithful spouse executes his/her right as a spouse to visit in the hospital, where s/he serves papers of intent to divorce and take the children.
Scenario 2: two people love each other very much and decide to legally marry through a Justice of the Peace. They live and grow together, and eventually decide to start a family though adoption. They remain a happy, loving family for many years. Eventually, one spouse is diagnosed with a fatal illness and is admitted to the hospital. The healthy spouse visits every day and does his/her best to strengthen the family's loving bond, and also to make sure all legal documents are in order for the spouse's passing (including guardianship of the children).
Which scenario above is deemed "immoral" and "illegal" by many "socially conservative" citizens of the United States? If you are considering the potential for a homosexual relationship, then Scenario 2 is illegal, as demonstrated below.
two people love each other very much and decide to legally marry [ILLEGAL] through a Justice of the Peace. They live and grow together, and eventually decide to start a family though adoption [ILLEGAL]. They remain a happy, loving family for many years. Eventually, one spouse is diagnosed with a fatal illness and is admitted to the hospital. The healthy spouse visits every day [ILLEGAL] and does his/her best to strengthen the family's loving bond, and also to make sure all legal documents are in order [ILLEGAL] for the spouse's passing (including guardianship of the children) [ILLEGAL].
I realize Don't Ask, Don't Tell is not an issue about marriage, it is a military issue. But let's be honest, it is not just a "military" issue. It is a social issue reflecting an increasingly stubborn and ignorant moral bigotry in this great country of espoused freedom. I am truly outraged that we, as a citizenry, cannot find a middle ground of freedom and acceptance regarding homosexuality.
If anybody cares, I'm straight. Frankly, I can only hope that I will one day have a loving relationship like those so many of my homosexual friends have discovered. Love is a blessing. For the "In God We Trust" moralists I call my neighbors, consider love to be a blessing bestowed upon us by God. Our human weakness in the form of ignorance, fear, and hatred is denying love among consenting adults, along with so many legal rights associated with marriage. It is truly time for change.
Let's have a little test.
Scenario 1: two people love each other very much and decide to get married in a church (or someplace else if you wish). They live and grow together, and eventually start a family. As time passes, one spouse grows "tired" of the relationship and seeks rejuvenation through sexual exploits with other people to whom s/he is not married. As a result of the sexual exploits, the unfaithful spouse contracts a sexually transmitted disease and is hospitalized. The faithful spouse executes his/her right as a spouse to visit in the hospital, where s/he serves papers of intent to divorce and take the children.
Scenario 2: two people love each other very much and decide to legally marry through a Justice of the Peace. They live and grow together, and eventually decide to start a family though adoption. They remain a happy, loving family for many years. Eventually, one spouse is diagnosed with a fatal illness and is admitted to the hospital. The healthy spouse visits every day and does his/her best to strengthen the family's loving bond, and also to make sure all legal documents are in order for the spouse's passing (including guardianship of the children).
Which scenario above is deemed "immoral" and "illegal" by many "socially conservative" citizens of the United States? If you are considering the potential for a homosexual relationship, then Scenario 2 is illegal, as demonstrated below.
two people love each other very much and decide to legally marry [ILLEGAL] through a Justice of the Peace. They live and grow together, and eventually decide to start a family though adoption [ILLEGAL]. They remain a happy, loving family for many years. Eventually, one spouse is diagnosed with a fatal illness and is admitted to the hospital. The healthy spouse visits every day [ILLEGAL] and does his/her best to strengthen the family's loving bond, and also to make sure all legal documents are in order [ILLEGAL] for the spouse's passing (including guardianship of the children) [ILLEGAL].
I realize Don't Ask, Don't Tell is not an issue about marriage, it is a military issue. But let's be honest, it is not just a "military" issue. It is a social issue reflecting an increasingly stubborn and ignorant moral bigotry in this great country of espoused freedom. I am truly outraged that we, as a citizenry, cannot find a middle ground of freedom and acceptance regarding homosexuality.
If anybody cares, I'm straight. Frankly, I can only hope that I will one day have a loving relationship like those so many of my homosexual friends have discovered. Love is a blessing. For the "In God We Trust" moralists I call my neighbors, consider love to be a blessing bestowed upon us by God. Our human weakness in the form of ignorance, fear, and hatred is denying love among consenting adults, along with so many legal rights associated with marriage. It is truly time for change.
Monday, September 20, 2010
Dissertation "wordle"
Since my dissertation is now ready for defense, I figured I would create a Wordle. So, here it is:
Cheers!
Create your own Wordle in seconds at http://www.wordle.net/
Cheers!
Create your own Wordle in seconds at http://www.wordle.net/
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Identity of a Pack-rat
I've been accused of being a pack-rat before, and for good reason. I am. I'm pretty sure I'm not in danger of ending up on the TV show Hoarders, but I certainly own way more crap than one person should own. Rather, my stuff owns me to a certain degree.
Until tonight, I've credited this toward a potentially unhealthy sense of self sufficiency. Since my first year in college, I've tried very hard to have everything I need for any foreseeable situation I might choose for myself. For example, I own a bunch of camping equipment because I will conceivably camp at any moment (although I rarely do). Conversely, I don't own snow skis because I don't ski and don't imagine I would randomly decide to find snowy slopes tomorrow. I keep almost all of my boxes because I move a great deal. You get the idea.
Well, tonight I'm realizing some additional reality. It's about identity. To a certain extent, it's my challenge as an introvert--so much of my personality is internalized that I surround myself with expressions of myself for others to see. Perhaps more importantly, it comes down to my choices of when to move on with my vocational and life journey. You see, this is the second time I've ended a chapter of my journey without knowing what comes next. This creates an unusual paradox. On one hand, moving should be a time of rejuvenation and purging--getting rid of things that aren't worth moving. On the other hand, with this type of move into the unknown, my life is lacking in purpose which challenges my identity; as such, I cling to my possessions which help define me rather than purging them for some known future. There's the paradox: a time for renewal and a struggle to maintain identity.
This just occurred to me about five minutes ago, so I'm not sure what to do with it right now. I'm well into the moving process, and I have a job interview in the morning. For now, I think I just need to keep moving forward. Now that I realize the paradox, perhaps I can effectively deal with it at a later time. Right now, I need sleep.
Until tonight, I've credited this toward a potentially unhealthy sense of self sufficiency. Since my first year in college, I've tried very hard to have everything I need for any foreseeable situation I might choose for myself. For example, I own a bunch of camping equipment because I will conceivably camp at any moment (although I rarely do). Conversely, I don't own snow skis because I don't ski and don't imagine I would randomly decide to find snowy slopes tomorrow. I keep almost all of my boxes because I move a great deal. You get the idea.
Well, tonight I'm realizing some additional reality. It's about identity. To a certain extent, it's my challenge as an introvert--so much of my personality is internalized that I surround myself with expressions of myself for others to see. Perhaps more importantly, it comes down to my choices of when to move on with my vocational and life journey. You see, this is the second time I've ended a chapter of my journey without knowing what comes next. This creates an unusual paradox. On one hand, moving should be a time of rejuvenation and purging--getting rid of things that aren't worth moving. On the other hand, with this type of move into the unknown, my life is lacking in purpose which challenges my identity; as such, I cling to my possessions which help define me rather than purging them for some known future. There's the paradox: a time for renewal and a struggle to maintain identity.
This just occurred to me about five minutes ago, so I'm not sure what to do with it right now. I'm well into the moving process, and I have a job interview in the morning. For now, I think I just need to keep moving forward. Now that I realize the paradox, perhaps I can effectively deal with it at a later time. Right now, I need sleep.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Preparing for tour
This has been a slow period for blogging...my apologies.
However, things are getting revved up as I prepare to move out and move on. I will soon start my unemployment travels, and I've set up a special blog just for the occasion:
http://davestour2010.blogspot.com/
Cheers!
However, things are getting revved up as I prepare to move out and move on. I will soon start my unemployment travels, and I've set up a special blog just for the occasion:
http://davestour2010.blogspot.com/
Cheers!
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Give Muzak a Chance?
I'll admit that this is a strange post, even for me.
If I hear the word "Muzak," I think of tacky elevator music, often lame songs that have been stripped of their lyrics to become more lame. I don't have a completely changed perspective, yet, but I'm getting there. It appears that Muzak has reinvented itself (or maybe I just never understood it before) in the age of satellite radio and streaming digital music.
I ended up at the Muzak site thanks to Qdoba who apparently is in cahoots with the music service provider. I'll simply say that I was treated to some cool music.
Anyway, this is really just a post to share the following image borrowed from Muzak's site:
Not only do I find this to be a cool ad, but I agree with the message (in general, not necessarily in promotion of a music provider). I am an iPod shuffler. Generally, I love it! However, as much as I appreciate no longer flipping through my CDs and picking out 6 to go in my changer, I do find myself missing the album experience. Granted, Muzak is not selling the "album" concept--they are selling non-so-random mixes. Regardless, full albums often reveal the real story of songs.
I think I'll start playing full albums more often. Do I actually owe Muzak "thanks" for waking me up?
If I hear the word "Muzak," I think of tacky elevator music, often lame songs that have been stripped of their lyrics to become more lame. I don't have a completely changed perspective, yet, but I'm getting there. It appears that Muzak has reinvented itself (or maybe I just never understood it before) in the age of satellite radio and streaming digital music.
I ended up at the Muzak site thanks to Qdoba who apparently is in cahoots with the music service provider. I'll simply say that I was treated to some cool music.
Anyway, this is really just a post to share the following image borrowed from Muzak's site:
I think I'll start playing full albums more often. Do I actually owe Muzak "thanks" for waking me up?
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Love and Luck
Sorry it has been so long since posting. I must admit that the dissertation and associated efforts have kept my attention recently.
I decided to post song lyrics today, although I try not to make a habit of such activity. Somewhat fittingly, my last post was for Valentine's Day. The song is Jimmy Buffett's "Love and Luck" (which, for some reason, does not appear on his own lyrics page). I have no lessons here within--take from it what you will. Cheers!
LOVE AND LUCK
Better days are in the cards I feel
I feel it in the changin' wind
I feel it when I fly
So talk to me I'll listen to your story
I've been around enough to know
That there's more than meets the eye
Everybody needs a little good luck charm
A little gris gris keeps you safe from harm
Rub yours on me, and I'll rub mine on you
Luckiest couple on the avenue
Chorus:
With a little love and luck you will get by
With a little love and luck we'll take the sky
In this megalo-modern world you've got to try
Try a little love and luck and you'll get by
Mysteries don't ever try to solve them
We're just players in a game
And no one's keeping score
So have your fun
Go ahead and tell your story
Find yourself a lover
Who will glue you to the floor
Everybody needs a little good luck charm
A little gris gris keeps you safe from harm
Rub yours on me, and I'll rub mine on you
Luckiest couple on the avenue
[CHORUS]
Kole Sere, Kole Sere
Kole Sere, Kole Sere
Kole Sere, Kole Sere
Kole Sere, Kole Sere
[CHORUS]
I decided to post song lyrics today, although I try not to make a habit of such activity. Somewhat fittingly, my last post was for Valentine's Day. The song is Jimmy Buffett's "Love and Luck" (which, for some reason, does not appear on his own lyrics page). I have no lessons here within--take from it what you will. Cheers!
LOVE AND LUCK
Better days are in the cards I feel
I feel it in the changin' wind
I feel it when I fly
So talk to me I'll listen to your story
I've been around enough to know
That there's more than meets the eye
Everybody needs a little good luck charm
A little gris gris keeps you safe from harm
Rub yours on me, and I'll rub mine on you
Luckiest couple on the avenue
Chorus:
With a little love and luck you will get by
With a little love and luck we'll take the sky
In this megalo-modern world you've got to try
Try a little love and luck and you'll get by
Mysteries don't ever try to solve them
We're just players in a game
And no one's keeping score
So have your fun
Go ahead and tell your story
Find yourself a lover
Who will glue you to the floor
Everybody needs a little good luck charm
A little gris gris keeps you safe from harm
Rub yours on me, and I'll rub mine on you
Luckiest couple on the avenue
[CHORUS]
Kole Sere, Kole Sere
Kole Sere, Kole Sere
Kole Sere, Kole Sere
Kole Sere, Kole Sere
[CHORUS]
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Valentine's Day 2010
It's time for the [almost] annual Valentine's Day blog entry. I don't think I've done one since moving to BG, though.
One perspective has not changed in the years that have passed…I truly believe that anyone who finds love to celebrate on Valentine's Day is fortunate. I also believe that anyone who does not find love to celebrate on Valentine's Day should look around and re-discover love that is there. This day is not just about "expressing" love, it's about realizing love. Although I gave up my chance to celebrate romance many years ago, I am still blessed for all of the love in my life.
All of that being said, let's get down to brass tacks.
Thanks to my great friend, Erich, I am able to share the following photo for this year's V.D. edition:
Yes, that is right. For all the wonderful people in the world that associate their love with White Castle, our friends in Cincinnati are helping to insure that today remains special thanks to their reservation hotline. Sadly, I'm failing to find an appropriate love/"slider" pun for this image. While I do appreciate the White Castle reservation concept, it's the phone number that makes me laugh--x10. Really? Is this White Castle so enormous that it's management and work force demands multiple extensions for outside callers? Wow! A White Castle that grand probably does require reservations.
If there where a White Castle near me, I probably would have visited simply to express my love for the "slider."
I guess that is all for this year's edition. It's getting close to midnight, so I need to get this posted.
Love and peace to all!
One perspective has not changed in the years that have passed…I truly believe that anyone who finds love to celebrate on Valentine's Day is fortunate. I also believe that anyone who does not find love to celebrate on Valentine's Day should look around and re-discover love that is there. This day is not just about "expressing" love, it's about realizing love. Although I gave up my chance to celebrate romance many years ago, I am still blessed for all of the love in my life.
All of that being said, let's get down to brass tacks.
Thanks to my great friend, Erich, I am able to share the following photo for this year's V.D. edition:
Yes, that is right. For all the wonderful people in the world that associate their love with White Castle, our friends in Cincinnati are helping to insure that today remains special thanks to their reservation hotline. Sadly, I'm failing to find an appropriate love/"slider" pun for this image. While I do appreciate the White Castle reservation concept, it's the phone number that makes me laugh--x10. Really? Is this White Castle so enormous that it's management and work force demands multiple extensions for outside callers? Wow! A White Castle that grand probably does require reservations.
If there where a White Castle near me, I probably would have visited simply to express my love for the "slider."
I guess that is all for this year's edition. It's getting close to midnight, so I need to get this posted.
Love and peace to all!
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Pork marinade
I recently posted a spectacular marinade for steak (beef) on Facebook. Well, today I have another combination (not quite a recipe), but this time for pork. For my cooking adventure, I was using thin-sliced center-cut pork chops cooked in a slow cooker (Crock Pot). I plan to use again for thicker chops or possibly a roast. My particular cut of meat and presentation was not photo worthy, but yummy!
Ingredients (other than pork)--roughly in order of content quantity:
Water
Sweet Baby Ray's BBQ sauce
sweet onion--1 thick slice lightly chopped
minced garlic
dry mustard
black pepper
Tabasco sauce (hint/dash)
I mixed the marinade the night before and refrigerated to allow a good mixture, but I did not marinade the meat in advance because it was still thawing. Not real sure a marinade is necessary when slow cooking anyway. I would recommend a 2-6 hour (or overnight) marinade if choosing to bake, fry, broil, or grill the pork.
Quantity: for the slow cooker, I made sure to start with enough water to cover the pork. From there, add BBQ sauce until appropriately flavorful (probably 1 cup per pound of meat--start with less and work up so as to avoid wasting the sauce). 1-2 slices of onion per pound of meat is fine, more or less to suit your taste. Garlic--roughly 1 Tbls per pound of meat, or one clove if using fresh; I probably used 1 tsp. in my mixture. The garlic is a companion in this sauce, not the main event. Dry mustard = 2 tsp per pound. Black pepper: probably 1 tsp, but I imagine up to 1 Tbls would be fine. Tabasco: use your judgment--it's giving a little extra "tang" to the BBQ, but your limit for "kick" will determine how much to use. I'm thinking 1/2 tsp - 1 Tbls per pound.
I served the marinade/sauce over the cooked pork, which is why I left large pieces of onion--yum!
Ingredients (other than pork)--roughly in order of content quantity:
Water
Sweet Baby Ray's BBQ sauce
sweet onion--1 thick slice lightly chopped
minced garlic
dry mustard
black pepper
Tabasco sauce (hint/dash)
I mixed the marinade the night before and refrigerated to allow a good mixture, but I did not marinade the meat in advance because it was still thawing. Not real sure a marinade is necessary when slow cooking anyway. I would recommend a 2-6 hour (or overnight) marinade if choosing to bake, fry, broil, or grill the pork.
Quantity: for the slow cooker, I made sure to start with enough water to cover the pork. From there, add BBQ sauce until appropriately flavorful (probably 1 cup per pound of meat--start with less and work up so as to avoid wasting the sauce). 1-2 slices of onion per pound of meat is fine, more or less to suit your taste. Garlic--roughly 1 Tbls per pound of meat, or one clove if using fresh; I probably used 1 tsp. in my mixture. The garlic is a companion in this sauce, not the main event. Dry mustard = 2 tsp per pound. Black pepper: probably 1 tsp, but I imagine up to 1 Tbls would be fine. Tabasco: use your judgment--it's giving a little extra "tang" to the BBQ, but your limit for "kick" will determine how much to use. I'm thinking 1/2 tsp - 1 Tbls per pound.
I served the marinade/sauce over the cooked pork, which is why I left large pieces of onion--yum!
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Retreat
I’ve spent the better part of this weekend on a retreat sponsored by a Catholic church. For some of you, this might seem predictable. For others, this might be hard to believe. It probably depends on when and where we’ve known each other.
I should start by saying that it was a fabulous experience, and I thank the parishioners of St. Aloysius in Bowling Green for making it all possible through their planning and volunteering. My experience is entirely due to their service and sacrifice.
So, what’s blog worthy in this story. “What happens on retreat stays on retreat,” so I can only ethically share self-perspectives (which seems fitting for a blog).
The biggest thing that stands out is that we reap what we sow, and that includes humor. I was very appreciative of the letters I received from family and friends during the retreat, especially because they all were infused with humor. I’ve been on many retreats in my life, and I was very pleased to spend more time laughing than crying on this one!
I can also say that I have renewed my spiritual focus, which remains untethered to any specific religious doctrine. While this does leave me detached from the kind of community experienced by many Christians, it permits me to live every day knowing that I am not falsely impersonating a believer of religious “truths”. For now, I am grateful for the values of love, respect, justice, and community instilled within me through family and Church; I am also happy to shamelessly hold my beliefs within those values, even those which conflict with the Church that helped raise me.
I realize this posting is very unspecific, but I think that’s how it must be for now. I am happy to have experienced love this weekend, and I look forward to sharing that love forward.
Shalom (peace, prosperity, and harmony be with all of us).
I should start by saying that it was a fabulous experience, and I thank the parishioners of St. Aloysius in Bowling Green for making it all possible through their planning and volunteering. My experience is entirely due to their service and sacrifice.
So, what’s blog worthy in this story. “What happens on retreat stays on retreat,” so I can only ethically share self-perspectives (which seems fitting for a blog).
The biggest thing that stands out is that we reap what we sow, and that includes humor. I was very appreciative of the letters I received from family and friends during the retreat, especially because they all were infused with humor. I’ve been on many retreats in my life, and I was very pleased to spend more time laughing than crying on this one!
I can also say that I have renewed my spiritual focus, which remains untethered to any specific religious doctrine. While this does leave me detached from the kind of community experienced by many Christians, it permits me to live every day knowing that I am not falsely impersonating a believer of religious “truths”. For now, I am grateful for the values of love, respect, justice, and community instilled within me through family and Church; I am also happy to shamelessly hold my beliefs within those values, even those which conflict with the Church that helped raise me.
I realize this posting is very unspecific, but I think that’s how it must be for now. I am happy to have experienced love this weekend, and I look forward to sharing that love forward.
Shalom (peace, prosperity, and harmony be with all of us).
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Regrets?
I've heard it said (sorry, no specific references) that some people strive for "no regrets" in life. I'm pretty sure I've said that at times, perhaps even in former blog posts.
To an extent, I embrace the philosophy. If this means taking advantage of opportunities rather than letting them pass by, count me in.
However, there's another side to regrets. I do regret things now, and I expect to regret things in the future. Included in these regrets are opportunities presented simultaneously with other opportunities. With every opportunity, there is an alternative. With every choice is a cost. If we are fortunate in life, we will sometimes encounter multiple amazing opportunities from which to choose.
Here, I am reminded of Robert Frost's The Road Not Taken. We all face a "fork in the road" at some point, and we choose a direction. By the "no regrets" philosophy, I hope to look back on most of those choices and feel that they led to good--to amazing--places (figuratively and literally). At the same time, I may look back at some of those choices and regret not having experienced the other opportunity. That's not to say I made a mistake or even that I would do it differently if given the chance. It simply means I would like to have experienced the other as well. There have certainly been times when I've encountered "a fork" and parted ways with other people with whom I would have enjoyed a continued journey. Again, I may regret the departure from those persons, but that does not necessarily shroud the beauty of the chosen path.
Perhaps some regrets are treasures...reminders of amazing encounters. In the words of Alfred Lord Tennyson from In Memoriam, "Tis better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all."
I leave you with Frost's The Road Not Taken.
Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,
And sorry I could not travel both
And be one traveler, long I stood
And looked down one as far as I could
To where it bent in the undergrowth;
Then took the other, as just as fair
And having perhaps the better claim,
Because it was grassy and wanted wear;
Though as for that, the passing there
Had worn them really about the same,
And both that morning equally lay
In leaves no step had trodden black.
Oh, I kept the first for another day!
Yet knowing how way leads on to way,
I doubted if I should ever come back.
I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence:
two roads diverged in a wood, and I --
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.
To an extent, I embrace the philosophy. If this means taking advantage of opportunities rather than letting them pass by, count me in.
However, there's another side to regrets. I do regret things now, and I expect to regret things in the future. Included in these regrets are opportunities presented simultaneously with other opportunities. With every opportunity, there is an alternative. With every choice is a cost. If we are fortunate in life, we will sometimes encounter multiple amazing opportunities from which to choose.
Here, I am reminded of Robert Frost's The Road Not Taken. We all face a "fork in the road" at some point, and we choose a direction. By the "no regrets" philosophy, I hope to look back on most of those choices and feel that they led to good--to amazing--places (figuratively and literally). At the same time, I may look back at some of those choices and regret not having experienced the other opportunity. That's not to say I made a mistake or even that I would do it differently if given the chance. It simply means I would like to have experienced the other as well. There have certainly been times when I've encountered "a fork" and parted ways with other people with whom I would have enjoyed a continued journey. Again, I may regret the departure from those persons, but that does not necessarily shroud the beauty of the chosen path.
Perhaps some regrets are treasures...reminders of amazing encounters. In the words of Alfred Lord Tennyson from In Memoriam, "Tis better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all."
I leave you with Frost's The Road Not Taken.
Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,
And sorry I could not travel both
And be one traveler, long I stood
And looked down one as far as I could
To where it bent in the undergrowth;
Then took the other, as just as fair
And having perhaps the better claim,
Because it was grassy and wanted wear;
Though as for that, the passing there
Had worn them really about the same,
And both that morning equally lay
In leaves no step had trodden black.
Oh, I kept the first for another day!
Yet knowing how way leads on to way,
I doubted if I should ever come back.
I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence:
two roads diverged in a wood, and I --
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference.
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Moving along
Sorry for the inactivity. This has been a crazy...well, awkward...week. Last Saturday, in the midst of continued "settling" activities, my lower back basically went out. I spent much of Saturday literally crawling around my apartment and trying to get comfortable. On Monday, I visited a doctor and was prescribed medications for a back strain. Due to the medications, I am not permitted to drive and have spent much of the week in my apartment.
While this could have made for a good week of studying, I was largely preoccupied with my own physical condition (and I slept way more than usual). Regardless, I have moved forward with preparations for my exam (Jan. 22-23) and feel confident that I will be ready come next Friday.
I also was suckered into a "red tag" promotion this week. As such, I now have cable TV which means I'm paying for television for the first time ever. Hmm...we'll see how long that lasts.
I guess that's all I have to share for now. If I did have perspectives to share this week, they would probably regard the Tonight Show / Conan / Leno debacle. For now, suffice it to say that I've developed a new respect for Conan O'Brien.
Finally, Go Cowboys!
While this could have made for a good week of studying, I was largely preoccupied with my own physical condition (and I slept way more than usual). Regardless, I have moved forward with preparations for my exam (Jan. 22-23) and feel confident that I will be ready come next Friday.
I also was suckered into a "red tag" promotion this week. As such, I now have cable TV which means I'm paying for television for the first time ever. Hmm...we'll see how long that lasts.
I guess that's all I have to share for now. If I did have perspectives to share this week, they would probably regard the Tonight Show / Conan / Leno debacle. For now, suffice it to say that I've developed a new respect for Conan O'Brien.
Finally, Go Cowboys!
Thursday, January 7, 2010
A snowy start
I am officially moved and unemployed. I have my new "Graduate" ID (to replace my former "Employee" ID) and I have no parking permit for the University.
Time to start over.
I finished turning in keys and getting donations to Goodwill just in time to see the heavy snowfall begin from the comfort of home. Take a look
The first two offer the perspective of my actual home-office view:
This one gives a little better look at the snowfall:
And this is the snow leopard that is still waiting to get into my computer:
[For those of you unfamiliar, that is the image from Mac's new Mac OS X 10.6 operating system (Snow Leopard)]
I won't show any other pics from home at this time because there are--finally--boxes everywhere.
I'm not quite sure what happens today. I feel like I could use another hour or two of sleep, but that can probably wait. I know there will be soup at some point. As much as I would like to relax on the couch in front of the fireplace with a book, I know that unpacking must be a priority in order to begin my studying this weekend as planned.
Sadly, I don't have much other perspective to share at this moment. The snow is falling and I think it is beautiful, but I'm a little too tired for poetry. I am excited for the opportunities ahead of this transition, but I am still sad knowing I abandoned my team who started "training" today.
Oh, and I can't quite decide what font size I prefer for this blog.
Monday, January 4, 2010
Top 5: Winter Moving
TOP 5 REASONS WHY WINTER MOVING IS BETTER THAN SUMMER MOVING IN OHIO
5. Working up a sweat makes negative wind chill bearable.
4. Frozen ground = solid footing.
3. Bloody knuckles from dry, cracked skin looks kind of tough--like a fighter.
2. Frozen ground = no muddy footprints.
1. No humidity!
4. Frozen ground = solid footing.
3. Bloody knuckles from dry, cracked skin looks kind of tough--like a fighter.
2. Frozen ground = no muddy footprints.
1. No humidity!
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Weird start to 2010
I'm excited and nervous about the start to this year. For the first three nights of this year, I've gone to bed after 4am. Granted, this is *partly* because of moving. However, the full reality is that I get to a certain point by about 2am, and then I get online. Oh boy...this could be a problem.
Prior to the move, I contemplated my ideal day. I determined that it would start by waking up between 10-11am with a very relaxed/non-rushed morning routine leading up to brunch. Daily errands would follow, and something called "work" would begin around 3-4pm. "Work" would end Midnight-1am, and I would be in bed around 2-3am. Even with that crazy of an ideal, I'm still staying up way too late. I hope I get into a better routine before studying starts next weekend.
A colleague/friend announced her wedding engagement via Facebook today. It's very exciting, but I wish I had not posted a comment because now my e-mail is getting hit with all other posted comments. This is a wedding engagement, so there will be many comments. Oh well, what a neat use of social networking technology!
I think I would be writing poetry this weekend if it weren't for the moving. I played Guitar Hero 5 with friends last night, and I created my own rock star avatar. I made myself pale blue (and female...hmm), and that sparked some poetic inclinations after 2 beers. Perhaps the poetic inclinations sparked the blue avatar...or perhaps the movie AVATAR sparked both.
My entertainment center is completed tonight, including the first full installation of my wireless (well, sort of wireless) surround sound speaker system. There are still wires, but not running across the room from front to back. The CD line on my receiver is dedicated to an iPod dock, and my CD changer remains packed in it's box. The CDs will remain packed as well, and my CD racks will likely be converted to curio shelving. I have plenty of curio!
5am is quickly approaching, so I really should go to bed. To those with whom I interacted in the past day, I am very thankful for the interactions! To you with whom I did not interact, I hope fate allows us opportunities in the future.
Cheers!
Saturday, January 2, 2010
New Start: 2010
As usual, this will be a mediocre "hello" to start my new blog. For any of you who followed me on MySpace, welcome! To new readers, I hope you enjoy.
Today is January 2, 2010 (for me, it is actually the close of Jan. 1--time for bed to be sure). I am in the midst of moving; my 3rd move 2.5 years, and my 7th new home since graduating from college in 1995. This move is necessitated because I recently resigned my job as a residence hall director, so I'm moving into my own apartment. As of January 7, I will be voluntarily unemployed, and I will be a full-time doctoral student as of January 11.
If you are a new reader to my blogging, be advised that this posting is *not* typical. Not that I have a typical post, but I generally don't post a diary. I tend more toward observations, perspectives, and occasional poetry. If you'd like to read my poetry, visit my wiki page.
That's all for now. Happy New Year!
Today is January 2, 2010 (for me, it is actually the close of Jan. 1--time for bed to be sure). I am in the midst of moving; my 3rd move 2.5 years, and my 7th new home since graduating from college in 1995. This move is necessitated because I recently resigned my job as a residence hall director, so I'm moving into my own apartment. As of January 7, I will be voluntarily unemployed, and I will be a full-time doctoral student as of January 11.
If you are a new reader to my blogging, be advised that this posting is *not* typical. Not that I have a typical post, but I generally don't post a diary. I tend more toward observations, perspectives, and occasional poetry. If you'd like to read my poetry, visit my wiki page.
That's all for now. Happy New Year!
My CC License
This is my Creative Commons License for all content within this blog.
Dave Wagner's Blog: My Thoughts on Your Screen by David N. Wagner is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.
Dave Wagner's Blog: My Thoughts on Your Screen by David N. Wagner is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.
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