Location
There are two convenient locations near my apartment, although neither location is directly between work and home. However, the location I've been going to is only about 1 mile south of me, on the same street. There is convenient shopping in the area as well. The Trader Joe's is MUCH less impacted than the one in my area.
I was happily received by Jeff, trainer at the gym. He toured me around the gym, listened to my fitness goals, told me which classes to try. I understood after the tour that the weights are arranged by target areas (legs, arms, core, etc.). Jeff took my BMI and offered me a free training session. Um, THIS was the kind of tour I had in mind... are you listening, Golds? Jeff is a trainer, not even a membership representative, so giving me a tour isn't part of his job. (Duh, I know he was trying to sell me on the training session -- and he succeeded.)
Cardio
There are two cardio areas at Ballys. The upstairs area doubles as a TV viewing room. All of the equipment faces the same direction (maybe this is the way it's done?). The downstairs cardio area is the "newer" machines. I prefer this area, although I don't like watching myself run in a mirror. Maybe exercise is all about facing yourself... all sweaty and red. At least the fans are not so loud that I can't hear music. I was unfortunately also stuck next to dreaded Mobile-phone-walker-woman. CG has a strict "No Cell Phone" policy.
Weights
Weights and other equipment (core balls, etc.) are arranged in rooms by target area. I already mentioned that.
Stretching area
This place is huge, so there are plenty of stretching areas. The main stretching area is larger than CG.
Classes
Ballys has 3 large studios. One is for aerobics/core/spinning, another for Yoga and another with Pilates equipment. A friend goes to another Ballys regularly for spinning and enjoys it very much. This Ballys also has racquetball, which kind of gives the place a different, competitive vibe.
Locker Room
The locker room, again, is older but it has a steam room, sauna, showers and a WHIRLPOOL. Hell yeah! It also has all of the extra stuff to get ready in the morning (shampoo, gel, lotion, etc), but no towel service, of course.
Environment
It's an old building, and older equipment, but it has everything that I use, and it seems like they are working on upgrading the place... putting in carpet, painting. The entire gym used to be a racquetball club, so you can tell they are redoing some of the rooms.
With such a variety of activities, it seems to attract a variety of people as well. The old guys and corporate types do the racquetball thing, the hipsters do Pilates. There is also a lap pool outside. I would much rather hang with somewhat normal people than the sad steroid induced people at another gym. Are steroids airborne?
OVERALL REVIEW
Location = B+
Tour = A (Thanks, Jeff)
Weights = B- (Older equipment)
Cardio equipment = C
Stretching/core area = A
Classes = N/A (Would have to try it to believe it.)
Locker Room = B
Noise level = B
Cleanliness = C (Building is a little old, but I saw housekeeping!)
People watching (for fun)= C
People watching (for fitness) = C
Amenities /Extras = B
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
Thursday, January 25, 2007
Gold's Gym D+
Don't be such a girly-man loser!"It's not all about lifting weights there anymore. They have a lot of cardio equipment."
"Everyone attaches a stigma to Gold's from the 80's that it's just a bunch of guys taking steroids and lifting weights."
"What else do you need?: a rubber floor, some weights, and some cardio equipment. It has all of that."
These are all comments I've received from Gold Gym members who think that my gym standards are too high. I took all of this into consideration as I embarked on new gym territory last night after work.
(CG = Current Gym)
Location
I didn't like the drive TO Gold's Gym from work, but was amazed by the zippy ride home.
CG is a nice distance between my residence and work. The parking is horrible during Christmas and summer because of local shopping.
The facility "tour"
From the outside, the look in is very industrial - very fitting for a gym. The reception area was nice and I was greeted kindly by one of the reception staff. Let's call her Emily. I told Emily about how much I liked my CG, but was willing to try out something else because $80 a month for free towels seems a bit expensive. I asked her if I could get a tour of the gym, thinking this was something complimentary that prospective members would receive: showing me around, telling me about the benefits of the gym, where specific equipment is located... Apparently not. Emily took me to the edge of the reception area and said, "The cardio and locker rooms are upstairs, and the weights are on the first floor." Hmmm, not the tour I had in mind, but ok. Maybe she is new.
Hans and Franz are going to pump *clap* you up.
The weight area alone is the entire size of my current gym. Special K, a Gold's Gym member, told me that Gold's has special weights that conform to your movement, giving you the best possible workout for each muscle group. That's impressive, I thought. Unfortunately, the weight room was large and it confused me. If I would have had a tour, perhaps they could have told me if the weights were arranged by target body area... (?) They obviously were not arranged by type. There were circuit weights mixed in with free weights mixed in with pulley weights. I didn't even want to search for the "special" weights my buddy Special K was talking about.
CG has circuit weights arranged on one side of the gym, pulley weights generally in the middle section of the weight room and *gasp* free weights in their own special section. Wow! The area is small, but well arranged. You do not need to go more than 3 feet to find the next appropriate machine or weight.
I'm more of a cardio girl. So, let's go UPSTAIRS!
Bikes, treadmills, elliptical trainers, Stair climbers, oh my!
...and all of them set up to face the same direction, which looks at about 10 overhead TVs and windows facing the expressway (except for the windows that are MIRRORED, so you can stare at yourself and those behind you while you work up a sweat). The windows, by the way... have they been cleaned in the last year? Ugh. I don't think so.
I'm more of a people watcher while I do cardio, and am not all about the TVs. CG has a TV at every cardio station. I think TV is distracting; it takes away from what you are supposed to be doing = exercising. But, I can appreciate those who need a TV to sweep the time away. The TVs are also adjustable, so you can move them out of the way and watch the other patrons and trainers. I've learned a lot about weight lifting, core exercise, and just people in general while doing cardio. What can I say? I'm a multi-tasker, extraordinaire!
Stretching my tolerance
There was no stretching area.
CG stretching area is one of the most popular areas of the gym.
It's a group thing
The group fitness classes looked fine. Gold's does Yoga, Gold's does a core training class. They do not have pilates, but I've never taken pilates so I can't complain. Emily tried to sell me on all of the fabulous aerobics classes, but I don't do aerobics. I don't like to clap when I exercise. The possibility that Gold's has fabulous group fitness is not enough to sell me on a membership.
CG has a LOT more group fitness classes, some of which cost extra (which I think is a rip-off). But, I've enjoyed a Wednesday morning Yoga class and they constantly run "special" classes that you can try out. Again, group fitness is not the main focus of my exercise routine, but it is nice to have options.
WHAT? WHAT DID YOU SAY? I DIDN'T HEAR YOU.
The noise level of Gold's is uncomfortable and out of control. There is a constant loud whizzing noise of fans. I understand they are trying to keep it cool and ventilated in there, but geez... look into some noiseless airconditioning units. Also, because the cardio equipment is older, it is by no mean noiseless. It's time they upgraded enough to be able to play music in the background.
I did complain to my CG staff last Christmas for playing annoying holiday music in the locker room, but they typically play some good background tunes - at least music that can be blocked out.
Going to the ladies.... locker room
The ladies locker room was the cleanest part of Gold's Gym. It was a bunch of lockers, some decent looking shower stalls, bathroom stalls, and a place to apply make-up/do hair if I were to go in the morning before work.
CG's locker room is fabulous. They have a towel service, build-around shower stalls without curtains, lockers equipped with locks, hairspray, deodorant, shower gel, shampoo, conditioner, bamboo floor mats, floral arrangements... clearly much more that what is needed. Everyone knows the names of the housekeeping staff because they are constantly making sure everything is spic-n-span in the locker rooms. Furthermore, I know that Maria, everyone's favorite member of the housekeeping staff, is on maternity leave and is having a boy. It's like a family. Clearly more than what is needed. :)
Personal trainers
I only saw one trainer working with a client at Gold's Gym.
CG has at least 3 trainers on duty at any time, and they all wear bright red. If you have a question, you can ask them. Because I'm quite the people-watcher, I often watch the trainers work with clients and pick up tips from them. I've never used a personal trainer myself.
Are these my peeps?
If you are in denial that muscle-heads don't hang out at Gold's anymore, you are sadly mistaken. When a large majority of the gym is weight machines, you are bound to get those who main focus of exercise is weight training. Also, don't think for a second that this doesn't apply to women. I saw some pretty tough looking chicks in there too. Upon telling Special K my experience at Gold's, he referred to most of the muscular-types as "posers." Maybe, but I still wouldn't want to get into a brawl with any of them. (Luckily, I'm sure I could out-run them.)
I also got the overwhelming feeling that I was being stared at. Perhaps it was because I didn't know what I was doing, or where anything was, and people sensed that I was new. It could have also been that the guys behind me while I was on the treadmill (I saw them in the mirror) were looking at the TVs over my head. Perhaps I'm just crazy. At least when you catch eyes with some (creepy) person at my CG, they will come over and talk to you. When someone watches you in silence = scary.
I admittedly given a lot of flack to my CG-peeps. The OLD PIBTY in the locker room, the guy who shouts out Bible verses while he pumps iron, the muscle-kissing guys who flex in the mirror, the women with fake breasts and the old men who love them... But, let's face it - strange people are everywhere, and who's to say that someone doesn't think I am a freak too.
OVERALL REVIEW
Location = B+
Tour = F
Weights = B- (Assuming I could figure out where everything is.)
Cardio equipment = D-
Stretching/core area = F
Classes = N/A (Would have to go back.)
Locker Room = C
Noise level = F
Cleanliness = D (It would have been an F, but the women's locker room was fine)
People watching (for fun)= B
People watching (for fitness) = F
Amenities /Extras = C
"Everyone attaches a stigma to Gold's from the 80's that it's just a bunch of guys taking steroids and lifting weights."
"What else do you need?: a rubber floor, some weights, and some cardio equipment. It has all of that."
These are all comments I've received from Gold Gym members who think that my gym standards are too high. I took all of this into consideration as I embarked on new gym territory last night after work.
(CG = Current Gym)
Location
I didn't like the drive TO Gold's Gym from work, but was amazed by the zippy ride home.
CG is a nice distance between my residence and work. The parking is horrible during Christmas and summer because of local shopping.
The facility "tour"
From the outside, the look in is very industrial - very fitting for a gym. The reception area was nice and I was greeted kindly by one of the reception staff. Let's call her Emily. I told Emily about how much I liked my CG, but was willing to try out something else because $80 a month for free towels seems a bit expensive. I asked her if I could get a tour of the gym, thinking this was something complimentary that prospective members would receive: showing me around, telling me about the benefits of the gym, where specific equipment is located... Apparently not. Emily took me to the edge of the reception area and said, "The cardio and locker rooms are upstairs, and the weights are on the first floor." Hmmm, not the tour I had in mind, but ok. Maybe she is new.
Hans and Franz are going to pump *clap* you up.
The weight area alone is the entire size of my current gym. Special K, a Gold's Gym member, told me that Gold's has special weights that conform to your movement, giving you the best possible workout for each muscle group. That's impressive, I thought. Unfortunately, the weight room was large and it confused me. If I would have had a tour, perhaps they could have told me if the weights were arranged by target body area... (?) They obviously were not arranged by type. There were circuit weights mixed in with free weights mixed in with pulley weights. I didn't even want to search for the "special" weights my buddy Special K was talking about.
CG has circuit weights arranged on one side of the gym, pulley weights generally in the middle section of the weight room and *gasp* free weights in their own special section. Wow! The area is small, but well arranged. You do not need to go more than 3 feet to find the next appropriate machine or weight.
I'm more of a cardio girl. So, let's go UPSTAIRS!
Bikes, treadmills, elliptical trainers, Stair climbers, oh my!
...and all of them set up to face the same direction, which looks at about 10 overhead TVs and windows facing the expressway (except for the windows that are MIRRORED, so you can stare at yourself and those behind you while you work up a sweat). The windows, by the way... have they been cleaned in the last year? Ugh. I don't think so.
I'm more of a people watcher while I do cardio, and am not all about the TVs. CG has a TV at every cardio station. I think TV is distracting; it takes away from what you are supposed to be doing = exercising. But, I can appreciate those who need a TV to sweep the time away. The TVs are also adjustable, so you can move them out of the way and watch the other patrons and trainers. I've learned a lot about weight lifting, core exercise, and just people in general while doing cardio. What can I say? I'm a multi-tasker, extraordinaire!
Stretching my tolerance
There was no stretching area.
CG stretching area is one of the most popular areas of the gym.
It's a group thing
The group fitness classes looked fine. Gold's does Yoga, Gold's does a core training class. They do not have pilates, but I've never taken pilates so I can't complain. Emily tried to sell me on all of the fabulous aerobics classes, but I don't do aerobics. I don't like to clap when I exercise. The possibility that Gold's has fabulous group fitness is not enough to sell me on a membership.
CG has a LOT more group fitness classes, some of which cost extra (which I think is a rip-off). But, I've enjoyed a Wednesday morning Yoga class and they constantly run "special" classes that you can try out. Again, group fitness is not the main focus of my exercise routine, but it is nice to have options.
WHAT? WHAT DID YOU SAY? I DIDN'T HEAR YOU.
The noise level of Gold's is uncomfortable and out of control. There is a constant loud whizzing noise of fans. I understand they are trying to keep it cool and ventilated in there, but geez... look into some noiseless airconditioning units. Also, because the cardio equipment is older, it is by no mean noiseless. It's time they upgraded enough to be able to play music in the background.
I did complain to my CG staff last Christmas for playing annoying holiday music in the locker room, but they typically play some good background tunes - at least music that can be blocked out.
Going to the ladies.... locker room
The ladies locker room was the cleanest part of Gold's Gym. It was a bunch of lockers, some decent looking shower stalls, bathroom stalls, and a place to apply make-up/do hair if I were to go in the morning before work.
CG's locker room is fabulous. They have a towel service, build-around shower stalls without curtains, lockers equipped with locks, hairspray, deodorant, shower gel, shampoo, conditioner, bamboo floor mats, floral arrangements... clearly much more that what is needed. Everyone knows the names of the housekeeping staff because they are constantly making sure everything is spic-n-span in the locker rooms. Furthermore, I know that Maria, everyone's favorite member of the housekeeping staff, is on maternity leave and is having a boy. It's like a family. Clearly more than what is needed. :)
Personal trainers
I only saw one trainer working with a client at Gold's Gym.
CG has at least 3 trainers on duty at any time, and they all wear bright red. If you have a question, you can ask them. Because I'm quite the people-watcher, I often watch the trainers work with clients and pick up tips from them. I've never used a personal trainer myself.
Are these my peeps?
If you are in denial that muscle-heads don't hang out at Gold's anymore, you are sadly mistaken. When a large majority of the gym is weight machines, you are bound to get those who main focus of exercise is weight training. Also, don't think for a second that this doesn't apply to women. I saw some pretty tough looking chicks in there too. Upon telling Special K my experience at Gold's, he referred to most of the muscular-types as "posers." Maybe, but I still wouldn't want to get into a brawl with any of them. (Luckily, I'm sure I could out-run them.)
I also got the overwhelming feeling that I was being stared at. Perhaps it was because I didn't know what I was doing, or where anything was, and people sensed that I was new. It could have also been that the guys behind me while I was on the treadmill (I saw them in the mirror) were looking at the TVs over my head. Perhaps I'm just crazy. At least when you catch eyes with some (creepy) person at my CG, they will come over and talk to you. When someone watches you in silence = scary.
I admittedly given a lot of flack to my CG-peeps. The OLD PIBTY in the locker room, the guy who shouts out Bible verses while he pumps iron, the muscle-kissing guys who flex in the mirror, the women with fake breasts and the old men who love them... But, let's face it - strange people are everywhere, and who's to say that someone doesn't think I am a freak too.
OVERALL REVIEW
Location = B+
Tour = F
Weights = B- (Assuming I could figure out where everything is.)
Cardio equipment = D-
Stretching/core area = F
Classes = N/A (Would have to go back.)
Locker Room = C
Noise level = F
Cleanliness = D (It would have been an F, but the women's locker room was fine)
People watching (for fun)= B
People watching (for fitness) = F
Amenities /Extras = C
Friday, January 19, 2007
Thursday, January 18, 2007
The Two Faces of Coffee
My co-workers are confused by my lack of personal or inanimate objects in my work area. I'm a minimalist, what can I say? So, I'm thinking of buying and framing a print of a comic strip that's been hanging in my cube since May of 2005. It's from a strip called Rhymes with Orange.
Doesn't the character look just the tiniest bit like someone we know? Hmmmm....?
I put the strip up at a time when we had a coffee maker in the office. Because I was the person closest to the coffee maker, I was somehow expected to make coffee. (Please refer to post NOT a Secretary.) Unfortunately, I would also partake of the coffee as it was so readily available and would end up feeling like a zittered zombie by the end of the day. I was regrettably horrible at cleaning the coffee maker (again, because I didn't feel like it was my responsibility) and eventually it went too long without being washed. The office collectively decided that the coffee maker was disgusting, and it was no longer welcome in the office. Since removal of the coffee maker, I drink considerably less coffee. Once in awhile someone will come in and ask where the coffee maker went and I will give them a sigh and say something like, "What coffee maker?" or "It ran away," before pointing them in the direction of the cafe across the street.
Thanks for listening. I'm going on a coffee break now.
Friday, January 12, 2007
Alien TV Sightings
It's true. The roommate broke down after Christmas and bought a pair of rabbit ears so we can watch a few channels. I have been both mesmerized and completely perplexed by TV in the last month.
#1 Raj Mathai, NBC 11 News
Isn't he a beautiful man? Ethinic AND can talk about sports. Wow. Speaking of good-looking Sportscasters... (see #2)
#2 Extra
This show is sad. I can't believe people watch this. What's worse is that it's followed by Access Hollywood, which is the SAME show. Why Jon Kelley, did you go from being a one of America's best sportscasters to being on Extra? Oh, lured by the money, were you? You were so much cuter talking about the Chicago Bears than you are talking about Lindsay Lohan. I'm sorry you had to come to this.
#3 The President's Update on Iraq
Did charisma leave the building? What is he squinting at? Oh yeah, he's reading.
#4 Doggy steps
They should include a disclaimer that reads:
WARNING SINGLE PERSON! Did you know that your bed is one of the dirtiest places in your house? Do you know how many perfectly wonderful mates have allergies? I don't care how cute and cuddly your dog is! He's a dog -- he can sleep on the floor. You can even buy him his own custom bed! If you do like sleeping with your pet, your chances of having another human being sleep in your bed GREATLY decrease. Don't trade in human companionship for Fluffy or Fido.
Doggy steps are perfect couples who mutually love their canine, older people who live alone with their canine, or people who want to be single forever.
#5 Deal or no Deal
Is that IT? They just open cases? Are there any other games, or is that it? Geez, at least the original show had different games and people in costumes. I'm greatly disappointed.
#6 Music concerts on PBS
I'm suddenly a fan of James Blunt. He wrote other songs besides "You're Beautiful" and they are GOOD! Yay! (He also has nice lips!) I'm also very appreciative of the Stix concert with the Cincinatti's Contemporary Youth Orchestra. Old guys with mullets, a spinning keyboard, and kids rocking out on violins?! Heck yeah!
#7 Housewives of the OC
I watched about 15 minutes and was bored out of my mind. I refuse to get upset; really it only makes me feel smarter. (he he more smart)
#1 Raj Mathai, NBC 11 News
Isn't he a beautiful man? Ethinic AND can talk about sports. Wow. Speaking of good-looking Sportscasters... (see #2)
#2 Extra
This show is sad. I can't believe people watch this. What's worse is that it's followed by Access Hollywood, which is the SAME show. Why Jon Kelley, did you go from being a one of America's best sportscasters to being on Extra? Oh, lured by the money, were you? You were so much cuter talking about the Chicago Bears than you are talking about Lindsay Lohan. I'm sorry you had to come to this.
#3 The President's Update on Iraq
Did charisma leave the building? What is he squinting at? Oh yeah, he's reading.
#4 Doggy steps
They should include a disclaimer that reads:
WARNING SINGLE PERSON! Did you know that your bed is one of the dirtiest places in your house? Do you know how many perfectly wonderful mates have allergies? I don't care how cute and cuddly your dog is! He's a dog -- he can sleep on the floor. You can even buy him his own custom bed! If you do like sleeping with your pet, your chances of having another human being sleep in your bed GREATLY decrease. Don't trade in human companionship for Fluffy or Fido.
Doggy steps are perfect couples who mutually love their canine, older people who live alone with their canine, or people who want to be single forever.
#5 Deal or no Deal
Is that IT? They just open cases? Are there any other games, or is that it? Geez, at least the original show had different games and people in costumes. I'm greatly disappointed.
#6 Music concerts on PBS
I'm suddenly a fan of James Blunt. He wrote other songs besides "You're Beautiful" and they are GOOD! Yay! (He also has nice lips!) I'm also very appreciative of the Stix concert with the Cincinatti's Contemporary Youth Orchestra. Old guys with mullets, a spinning keyboard, and kids rocking out on violins?! Heck yeah!
#7 Housewives of the OC
I watched about 15 minutes and was bored out of my mind. I refuse to get upset; really it only makes me feel smarter. (he he more smart)
Monday, January 08, 2007
Back on the Fabulous Campaign horse
Howdy Partners! YEE HAW!
For the first morning in about a month, I made it back to the gym this morning. MY gym -- the one that I love despite OLD PIBTY and old men hitting on me. I haven't brought myself to terminate membership after they decided to raise my monthly fees by $31. Some gym-shopping is in order before I decide that $79 per month is just too much. So, I'm shopping all of the typical places first: Golds, Ballys, 24 Hour Fitness... a gym report coming soon to a blog near you. Any suggestions appreciated.
My first M.A. course of the Winter quarter is already over. One class = one weekend. Woo Hoo! The topic? "Ethics in Higher Education." I didn't get to sleep in this weekend, but it was worth the sacrifice. For the next 5 weekends, I will be taking "History and Philosophy of Higher Education," which will at least give me Sunday free to roam around the house, have visitors (one in particular -- see below) or take a partial weekend trip somewhere. (Central Valley, maybe?)
I'm not really cereal dating any more. I went to pizza with Cinnamon Toast Texas Crunch this weekend, but didn't really view it as a date, more as a friendly get-together. I'm trying to see Special K as much as possible, and am having a difficult time being interested in anyone else. He's changing his work schedule to come down to San Jose on Friday so we can go out on a real date.
For the first morning in about a month, I made it back to the gym this morning. MY gym -- the one that I love despite OLD PIBTY and old men hitting on me. I haven't brought myself to terminate membership after they decided to raise my monthly fees by $31. Some gym-shopping is in order before I decide that $79 per month is just too much. So, I'm shopping all of the typical places first: Golds, Ballys, 24 Hour Fitness... a gym report coming soon to a blog near you. Any suggestions appreciated.
My first M.A. course of the Winter quarter is already over. One class = one weekend. Woo Hoo! The topic? "Ethics in Higher Education." I didn't get to sleep in this weekend, but it was worth the sacrifice. For the next 5 weekends, I will be taking "History and Philosophy of Higher Education," which will at least give me Sunday free to roam around the house, have visitors (one in particular -- see below) or take a partial weekend trip somewhere. (Central Valley, maybe?)
I'm not really cereal dating any more. I went to pizza with Cinnamon Toast Texas Crunch this weekend, but didn't really view it as a date, more as a friendly get-together. I'm trying to see Special K as much as possible, and am having a difficult time being interested in anyone else. He's changing his work schedule to come down to San Jose on Friday so we can go out on a real date.
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
Cinnamon Texas Toast Crunch
I know. This cereal doesn't really exist, but let's put it this way -- Cinnamon Toast Crunch is a Texan, a little younger than what I usually go for, but I found it to have a sweet and crunchy appeal (with a slightly thicker texture), so I'm willing to overlook his child-like appeal, for now. I'm also willing to overlook the fact that he went to law school, and I've had little luck with lawyers. (After the awkward kissing situation, RC and I never called each other.) They always seem a little dry...
CTTC took me to E&O for dinner followed by beers at a local Irish pub on the Tuesday before Christmas. (This was the only time we had to get together before the impending holidays.) He was the most outgoing lawyer I've every met, and I let him know that by saying, "You are the most outgoing lawyer I've every met!"
There was never a lack of conversation, we even talked over each other a bit. I gave him my Schtick about higher education, blah, blah, blah and he played along, telling me about his experiences at Notre Dame, etc. He was not offended by my lack of football knowledge. We discussed the law profession, and law in non-profit and performing arts organizations. We also hit pop culture and family values. We had a very open conversation about sex in relationships. He looked me in the eye when he talked to me, and asked me questions. I asked him questions. It was a freakin' 2-WAY CONVERSATION! OMG!
During the date I went back and forth with the age discrimination. (I was discriminating.) This guy has had a LOT of schooling -- he's obviously very intelligent, but has he really LIVED? Does he really know what he is looking for in life? He's traveled, lived in different states, has a large family, many interests and is a pretty happy-go-lucky guy. (I hate that expression.) Maybe I'm the one who is slightly jaded and I should be happy that CTTC is not.
It was a fun Monday night, and I went home with a smile on my face. Since the date, I went home to corn country and he spent his holidays in Texas. He phoned last night and is interested in getting together when he returns to CA tomorrow. To be continued...
FYI
I'm meeting out-of-towner Special K for dinner tonight (Tuesday). Will I EVER see this guy on a weekend?
CTTC took me to E&O for dinner followed by beers at a local Irish pub on the Tuesday before Christmas. (This was the only time we had to get together before the impending holidays.) He was the most outgoing lawyer I've every met, and I let him know that by saying, "You are the most outgoing lawyer I've every met!"
There was never a lack of conversation, we even talked over each other a bit. I gave him my Schtick about higher education, blah, blah, blah and he played along, telling me about his experiences at Notre Dame, etc. He was not offended by my lack of football knowledge. We discussed the law profession, and law in non-profit and performing arts organizations. We also hit pop culture and family values. We had a very open conversation about sex in relationships. He looked me in the eye when he talked to me, and asked me questions. I asked him questions. It was a freakin' 2-WAY CONVERSATION! OMG!
During the date I went back and forth with the age discrimination. (I was discriminating.) This guy has had a LOT of schooling -- he's obviously very intelligent, but has he really LIVED? Does he really know what he is looking for in life? He's traveled, lived in different states, has a large family, many interests and is a pretty happy-go-lucky guy. (I hate that expression.) Maybe I'm the one who is slightly jaded and I should be happy that CTTC is not.
It was a fun Monday night, and I went home with a smile on my face. Since the date, I went home to corn country and he spent his holidays in Texas. He phoned last night and is interested in getting together when he returns to CA tomorrow. To be continued...
FYI
I'm meeting out-of-towner Special K for dinner tonight (Tuesday). Will I EVER see this guy on a weekend?
Celebrate everyday!
I'm so glad to be back in "The Grind." Holiday madness has passed -- no more fluff, just back to working my way through life, trying to find a hidden suprise in the mix.
I found the holidays to be sadly mundane. During the holidays, I feel that I'm in a constant rut -- nothing is progressing, in fact, everything is digressing: my health, my work and school activities, my pocketbook, my relationships... I definitely don't get the overall warm, happy feeling that people are supposed to have during the holidays. Conversely, during "The Grind" I'm constantly thinking of ways to improve -- to take classes towards my MA, to move up professionally, to spend time with friends, to exercise, and just generally feel good about life. Holiday madness just puts me in a rut. It would be nice to have a break from the "The Grind" but not when it's just a bunch of materialistic hype, over-eating and over-drinking. I would rather just celebrate the "Every Day."
The reason why people tend to make New Years Resolutions must be due to the fact that people generally feel like crap about themselves at the end of the year. I will totally admit to feeling like crap, as I make the following resolutions:
1.) Make everyday advancements at work. Even if this means only that my desk is kept orderly, improvements should be made on a daily basis. The bigger picture is building my experiences and network for the future.
2.) Read more German literature. I don't find a lot of people to speak German to, and need to keep up. Reading is the best way. Since my reading skills are slower in German, I'll actually read less this year.
3.) Learn about grant writing. I would assist in the grant writing process for the performing arts and have been thinking about getting some PhD funding for myself...
4.) Stay healthy. I'm not going to complain. I've been pretty good about running, but health could always be improve.
5.) Date NICE guys. Eventually one will knock my socks off. I can't deal with Mr. Fraternity and his band of drinking buddies anymore. Fun does not equal functional...and it doesn't stay fun for long. This also ties into No. 4 Stay healthy.
6.) Remember friends' birthdays. This was a resolution after my birthday 2 years ago. It's getting better, but improvements can always be made.
I found the holidays to be sadly mundane. During the holidays, I feel that I'm in a constant rut -- nothing is progressing, in fact, everything is digressing: my health, my work and school activities, my pocketbook, my relationships... I definitely don't get the overall warm, happy feeling that people are supposed to have during the holidays. Conversely, during "The Grind" I'm constantly thinking of ways to improve -- to take classes towards my MA, to move up professionally, to spend time with friends, to exercise, and just generally feel good about life. Holiday madness just puts me in a rut. It would be nice to have a break from the "The Grind" but not when it's just a bunch of materialistic hype, over-eating and over-drinking. I would rather just celebrate the "Every Day."
The reason why people tend to make New Years Resolutions must be due to the fact that people generally feel like crap about themselves at the end of the year. I will totally admit to feeling like crap, as I make the following resolutions:
1.) Make everyday advancements at work. Even if this means only that my desk is kept orderly, improvements should be made on a daily basis. The bigger picture is building my experiences and network for the future.
2.) Read more German literature. I don't find a lot of people to speak German to, and need to keep up. Reading is the best way. Since my reading skills are slower in German, I'll actually read less this year.
3.) Learn about grant writing. I would assist in the grant writing process for the performing arts and have been thinking about getting some PhD funding for myself...
4.) Stay healthy. I'm not going to complain. I've been pretty good about running, but health could always be improve.
5.) Date NICE guys. Eventually one will knock my socks off. I can't deal with Mr. Fraternity and his band of drinking buddies anymore. Fun does not equal functional...and it doesn't stay fun for long. This also ties into No. 4 Stay healthy.
6.) Remember friends' birthdays. This was a resolution after my birthday 2 years ago. It's getting better, but improvements can always be made.
Monday, December 25, 2006
Stuck in San Jo
At least I wasn't stuck at DEN, but my flight was delayed 5 days due to the blizzard in Colorado. I've finally made my way to the Hawkeye State after 3 days of basically sitting on my ass in SJ, free from working, doing nothing.
Merry Christmas. Happy Holidays. Happy Festivus. Merry Christmahakwanzaka.
More later.
Merry Christmas. Happy Holidays. Happy Festivus. Merry Christmahakwanzaka.
More later.
Monday, December 18, 2006
Smalltown, IA U.S.A.
I will keep the name of this town anonymous to protect it's dignity. (I love under the marriage statistics that they include everyone 15 years and older.)
Population (year 2000): 1,401.
Estimated population in July 2005: 1,310 (-6.5% change)
Males: 676 (48.3%)
Females: 725 (51.7%)
Median resident age: 43.0 years
Median household income: $29,958 (year 2000)
Median house value: $46,400 (year 2000)
White Non-Hispanic (84.6%)
Hispanic (14.3%)
Other race (3.3%)
Two or more races (1.2%)
Ancestries: German (21.0%), English (10.6%), Irish (9.4%), United States (5.1%), Swedish (3.4%), Scotch-Irish (2.9%).
For population 25 years and over
High school or higher: 74.3%
Bachelor's degree or higher: 10.9%
Graduate or professional degree: 2.9%
Unemployed: 4.2%
Mean travel time to work: 14.8 minutes
For population 15 years and over
Never married: 23.9%
Now married: 54.1%
Separated: 1.4%
Widowed: 10.5%
Divorced: 10.1%
Population (year 2000): 1,401.
Estimated population in July 2005: 1,310 (-6.5% change)
Males: 676 (48.3%)
Females: 725 (51.7%)
Median resident age: 43.0 years
Median household income: $29,958 (year 2000)
Median house value: $46,400 (year 2000)
White Non-Hispanic (84.6%)
Hispanic (14.3%)
Other race (3.3%)
Two or more races (1.2%)
Ancestries: German (21.0%), English (10.6%), Irish (9.4%), United States (5.1%), Swedish (3.4%), Scotch-Irish (2.9%).
For population 25 years and over
High school or higher: 74.3%
Bachelor's degree or higher: 10.9%
Graduate or professional degree: 2.9%
Unemployed: 4.2%
Mean travel time to work: 14.8 minutes
For population 15 years and over
Never married: 23.9%
Now married: 54.1%
Separated: 1.4%
Widowed: 10.5%
Divorced: 10.1%
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Cereal Dating Status - Month 1
I HATE when profiles ask you about your "status." It's not like I'm single on purpose, or that I don't enjoy being single. Where is the "picky" status or the "happily unattached" status? Furthermore, there is no "cereal dating" status, and there really should be - at least for me. Here is my current cereal dating status, in case you were wondering, or if you are just plain confused:
Cornflakes
East coaster, lived all over
MA Stanford Engineering Grad who is taking time off of work to apply for MBA programs. His top choice? - Stanford, of course.
Non-offensive, looks like a Stanford guy. Goes to a lot of Stanford sporting events.
Date #1 A Stanford vs. SJSU basketball game
Date #2 Cajun food and a HS benefit music concert
AWKWARD DATE SCENARIO: Like an idiot, I leave my purse behind at our seats. I run back to get it. When I return, he has a hamburger and fries – for himself.
STATUS: Never called each other back.
FEELINGS: None.
East coaster, lived all over
MA Stanford Engineering Grad who is taking time off of work to apply for MBA programs. His top choice? - Stanford, of course.
Non-offensive, looks like a Stanford guy. Goes to a lot of Stanford sporting events.
Date #1 A Stanford vs. SJSU basketball game
Date #2 Cajun food and a HS benefit music concert
AWKWARD DATE SCENARIO: Like an idiot, I leave my purse behind at our seats. I run back to get it. When I return, he has a hamburger and fries – for himself.
STATUS: Never called each other back.
FEELINGS: None.
Rice Crispies
Also from the "I" States, moved here 6 years ago
Law School Grad working in high tech
Dark and handsome, with a bit of geek. Likes karaoke. Not your typical "I" State ‘fratguy’.
Date #1 Dinner at a tapas restaurant
Date #2 Japanese food and dive karaoke
Date #3 Pizza and James Bond
AWKWARD DATE SCENARIO: Strange attempt at first kiss.
STATUS: Have invited him to Christmas Cocktails at the CoHo.
FEELINGS: I feel like this guy may have everything programmed.
Porridge
He's a local
SJSU marketing alum working in high tech
Dark, cute, nice dimples, plays soccer.
Un-official Date: Pub Crawl
Official Date #1: A walk around Santa Cruz
Date #2: Cuban food and coffee
Un-official Date #2: A friendly night out in Los Gatos
AWKWARD DATE SCENARIO: A girlfriend of mine was having a fight with her boyfriend. She gave him the, “You know SHE’S not into you, but what do you think of ME?”
STATUS: I hope he doesn't hope we are dating.
FEELINGS: Please go out with my friend. She could really like you.
Lucky Charms
North of Chicago, has been here for 2.5 years
Went to a small, liberal arts school in Ohio, works in high tech and is quite a "monster"
VERY tall, big hands, big feet, big hair. VERY Irish.
Date #1: Italian food
AWKWARD DATE SCENARIO: Outside in the parking lot, he asks me to guess which car is his because, “I hope people don’t have the wrong impression of me by what I drive.” He drives a BMW, which I would have thought was perfectly normal, had he not made such a big deal about it. I lived in Germany – I know they are reliable cars.
STATUS: He asked me to a movie, but when I found out Special K was coming to town, I made up a lame excuse not to go.
FEELINGS: Ditching a guy and using a lame excuse is not good. Should just cut off contact and not make any more plans.
Also from the "I" States, moved here 6 years ago
Law School Grad working in high tech
Dark and handsome, with a bit of geek. Likes karaoke. Not your typical "I" State ‘fratguy’.
Date #1 Dinner at a tapas restaurant
Date #2 Japanese food and dive karaoke
Date #3 Pizza and James Bond
AWKWARD DATE SCENARIO: Strange attempt at first kiss.
STATUS: Have invited him to Christmas Cocktails at the CoHo.
FEELINGS: I feel like this guy may have everything programmed.
Porridge
He's a local
SJSU marketing alum working in high tech
Dark, cute, nice dimples, plays soccer.
Un-official Date: Pub Crawl
Official Date #1: A walk around Santa Cruz
Date #2: Cuban food and coffee
Un-official Date #2: A friendly night out in Los Gatos
AWKWARD DATE SCENARIO: A girlfriend of mine was having a fight with her boyfriend. She gave him the, “You know SHE’S not into you, but what do you think of ME?”
STATUS: I hope he doesn't hope we are dating.
FEELINGS: Please go out with my friend. She could really like you.
Lucky Charms
North of Chicago, has been here for 2.5 years
Went to a small, liberal arts school in Ohio, works in high tech and is quite a "monster"
VERY tall, big hands, big feet, big hair. VERY Irish.
Date #1: Italian food
AWKWARD DATE SCENARIO: Outside in the parking lot, he asks me to guess which car is his because, “I hope people don’t have the wrong impression of me by what I drive.” He drives a BMW, which I would have thought was perfectly normal, had he not made such a big deal about it. I lived in Germany – I know they are reliable cars.
STATUS: He asked me to a movie, but when I found out Special K was coming to town, I made up a lame excuse not to go.
FEELINGS: Ditching a guy and using a lame excuse is not good. Should just cut off contact and not make any more plans.
Special K
From west Chicago burbs, moved to LA, lived there for 5 years, lived in ND before moving here 2 years ago
Went to the same school as my sister, works in automotive industry
Best smile, very kissable, works out a lot. Dry sense of humor, great laugh.
Date #1: A really weird Monday night on the town in which someone (not him) drank a little too much.
Date #2: A Tuesday night in Santana Row after a hard-days work.
AWKWARD DATE SCENARIO:He’s from out of town, here on business, so he’s staying in a hotel. Um, this could potentially be sleazy/ appear to be sleazy.
STATUS: We really need to get together on a weekend. I've invited him to a Christmas Party in Davis.
FEELINGS: Kind of warm and gushy.
From west Chicago burbs, moved to LA, lived there for 5 years, lived in ND before moving here 2 years ago
Went to the same school as my sister, works in automotive industry
Best smile, very kissable, works out a lot. Dry sense of humor, great laugh.
Date #1: A really weird Monday night on the town in which someone (not him) drank a little too much.
Date #2: A Tuesday night in Santana Row after a hard-days work.
AWKWARD DATE SCENARIO:He’s from out of town, here on business, so he’s staying in a hotel. Um, this could potentially be sleazy/ appear to be sleazy.
STATUS: We really need to get together on a weekend. I've invited him to a Christmas Party in Davis.
FEELINGS: Kind of warm and gushy.
Anyone in the hopper? A lawyer named Jeff.
Anyone else? No, I'm tired.
Monday, December 11, 2006
Where's the damned snow?
If there were a red or blue pill that gave me the option go either go through the holidays, or to skip it -- I would skip it.
I would wake up on Monday, January 8, go to the gym where I would run an easy 30 minutes on 7.0 treadmill speed and stretch. Before showering, I would stop by each mirror to marvel at how thin I look. I would go to work, where there would be plenty of important items on my desk. During lunch, I would check my bank account online to see that I have plenty of funds for a pedicure and a trip to Ann Taylor. No one would say, "Happy Holidays!" or ask for the millionth time what I'll be doing for Christmas, New Years, etc. No one would ask me what I did for Christmas, New Years, etc. It would be fabulous.
Unfortunately I must endure these holidays with everyone else. Even the party-loving, gift-buying, Christmas-In-The-Park-going people who think that is what the holidays are all about. These are the same people that honk at you on the freeway, take the last can of pumpkin, and steal your parking space because THEIR Christmas is sooo much more important than yours. I hate them.
I don't know why the holidays stress me out so much. So, I blame it on the weather.
California Christmas is confusing. I can understand wanting to spend Christmas on a beach, under a palm tree, relaxing, drinking something out of a coconut. I can also understand staying inside under a blanket because you can't get your car out of the snowed-in driveway. But, I don't understand the holidays having anything to do with rain or leaf blowers. I'm in more of a mood to go shopping for school supplies than to put up a Christmas tree. This is FALL, people. NOT winter!
A group from my choir is getting together next week to sing carols at Christmas in the Park. San Jose's Christmas in the Park scares the crap out of me. There are scary animated figurines and FAKE snow. Sure, I was spoiled as a child to enjoy walking down Chicago's historic Michigan Avenue to view the intricate window displays of Marshall Field's and the world famous Bloomingdales Christmas tree in the cold. But, why even bother pretending that there is snow on the ground? Doesn't this just confuse little children.
Caroling SEEMS like it would be fun, but, how many Christmas carols do you know that have nothing to do with winter? I think California and other no-winter states should do some carol rewrites and stop misleading people. Really, this is for the good of the children!
Oh the weather outside is delightful,
And forest fires are so frightful,
And since the weather is so tame,
Let it rain! Let it rain! Let it rain!
I'm dreaming of a foggy Christmas,
Just like the ones I used to know.
Where the marine layer covers,
And birds still hover,
To hear our next door neighbor mow.
In the bleak midwinter,
Mild, wet wind made moan,
Earth stood soft and muddy,
Water flowed, flowed, flowed
Rain had fallen, rain on rain, rain don't you know?
In the bleak midwinter, long ago.
Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way,
Oh what fun it is to ride in a horsepowered SUV!
Cell phones ring, are you listenen?'
On the freeway, traffic lights glistnen'
We're honk at them all, as we see a car stall,
Parkin' in a crowded shopping mall.
I would wake up on Monday, January 8, go to the gym where I would run an easy 30 minutes on 7.0 treadmill speed and stretch. Before showering, I would stop by each mirror to marvel at how thin I look. I would go to work, where there would be plenty of important items on my desk. During lunch, I would check my bank account online to see that I have plenty of funds for a pedicure and a trip to Ann Taylor. No one would say, "Happy Holidays!" or ask for the millionth time what I'll be doing for Christmas, New Years, etc. No one would ask me what I did for Christmas, New Years, etc. It would be fabulous.
Unfortunately I must endure these holidays with everyone else. Even the party-loving, gift-buying, Christmas-In-The-Park-going people who think that is what the holidays are all about. These are the same people that honk at you on the freeway, take the last can of pumpkin, and steal your parking space because THEIR Christmas is sooo much more important than yours. I hate them.
I don't know why the holidays stress me out so much. So, I blame it on the weather.
California Christmas is confusing. I can understand wanting to spend Christmas on a beach, under a palm tree, relaxing, drinking something out of a coconut. I can also understand staying inside under a blanket because you can't get your car out of the snowed-in driveway. But, I don't understand the holidays having anything to do with rain or leaf blowers. I'm in more of a mood to go shopping for school supplies than to put up a Christmas tree. This is FALL, people. NOT winter!
A group from my choir is getting together next week to sing carols at Christmas in the Park. San Jose's Christmas in the Park scares the crap out of me. There are scary animated figurines and FAKE snow. Sure, I was spoiled as a child to enjoy walking down Chicago's historic Michigan Avenue to view the intricate window displays of Marshall Field's and the world famous Bloomingdales Christmas tree in the cold. But, why even bother pretending that there is snow on the ground? Doesn't this just confuse little children.
Caroling SEEMS like it would be fun, but, how many Christmas carols do you know that have nothing to do with winter? I think California and other no-winter states should do some carol rewrites and stop misleading people. Really, this is for the good of the children!
Oh the weather outside is delightful,
And forest fires are so frightful,
And since the weather is so tame,
Let it rain! Let it rain! Let it rain!
I'm dreaming of a foggy Christmas,
Just like the ones I used to know.
Where the marine layer covers,
And birds still hover,
To hear our next door neighbor mow.
In the bleak midwinter,
Mild, wet wind made moan,
Earth stood soft and muddy,
Water flowed, flowed, flowed
Rain had fallen, rain on rain, rain don't you know?
In the bleak midwinter, long ago.
Jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way,
Oh what fun it is to ride in a horsepowered SUV!
Cell phones ring, are you listenen?'
On the freeway, traffic lights glistnen'
We're honk at them all, as we see a car stall,
Parkin' in a crowded shopping mall.
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
Special K®
A complete breakfast?
I googled "What's so special about Special K" and got the following hit:
Ketamine, or "Special K", is a veterinary anesthetic as well as a popular recreational drug due to its short term hallucinogenic effects.
Not exactly what I was looking for. So, now that we all know what is special about the hallucinogenic drug, Special K -- what about the cereal? The Kellogg's Special K website, did not give much scientific explanation to the mystery of this popular breakfast cereal other than saying "The prize is inside." Apparently there's a lot of good/healthy stuff in there. There is also the Special K Challenge:
The Plan
Eat a serving of one of the FIVE varieties of Special K® cereals with 2/3 cup skim milk and fruit for two meals a day.
Eat your third meal as you normally do.
For snacks, choose from the following:
- fresh fruits and vegetables
- a Special K® Bar
- a pouch of Special K® Snack Bites.
Consume beverages as you normally do.
The man, Special K, is also pretty special. He's a classic -- funny, slightly sweet, he's not full of bullshit. I liked him without hesitation the first time we spoke. We finish each other's sentences. It's a little scary. I'm having a hard time attaching him to a cereal, because there are really no outstanding cereal traits that make him fun to write about. As my friend, TC, pointed out - "Maybe you aren't "cereal" dating this guy. Maybe you are just dating him." Hmmmm... perhaps he's an hallucination?
In order to keep dating him, there will have to be a "plan" because he lives at least an hour from me. Isn't this ALWAYS the way it works out? So, I'm trying to make plans to get to know him a little better, which is difficult over the holidays. We both have trips planned back to the Midwest for the holidays (yes, he's from Chicagoland), work, and other engagements. Look for Special K at a Christmas party near you!
I googled "What's so special about Special K" and got the following hit:
Ketamine, or "Special K", is a veterinary anesthetic as well as a popular recreational drug due to its short term hallucinogenic effects.
Not exactly what I was looking for. So, now that we all know what is special about the hallucinogenic drug, Special K -- what about the cereal? The Kellogg's Special K website, did not give much scientific explanation to the mystery of this popular breakfast cereal other than saying "The prize is inside." Apparently there's a lot of good/healthy stuff in there. There is also the Special K Challenge:
The Plan
Eat a serving of one of the FIVE varieties of Special K® cereals with 2/3 cup skim milk and fruit for two meals a day.
Eat your third meal as you normally do.
For snacks, choose from the following:
- fresh fruits and vegetables
- a Special K® Bar
- a pouch of Special K® Snack Bites.
Consume beverages as you normally do.
The man, Special K, is also pretty special. He's a classic -- funny, slightly sweet, he's not full of bullshit. I liked him without hesitation the first time we spoke. We finish each other's sentences. It's a little scary. I'm having a hard time attaching him to a cereal, because there are really no outstanding cereal traits that make him fun to write about. As my friend, TC, pointed out - "Maybe you aren't "cereal" dating this guy. Maybe you are just dating him." Hmmmm... perhaps he's an hallucination?
In order to keep dating him, there will have to be a "plan" because he lives at least an hour from me. Isn't this ALWAYS the way it works out? So, I'm trying to make plans to get to know him a little better, which is difficult over the holidays. We both have trips planned back to the Midwest for the holidays (yes, he's from Chicagoland), work, and other engagements. Look for Special K at a Christmas party near you!
Lucky Charms
"They're always after me Lucky Charms..."
There's something sexy about a big type-A personality: the big ego, the drive, ambition. These people (men or women) are not afraid to put their personality on the table -- and as loud as possible -- because it's gotten them pretty far in life. I appreciate those hard-working, money-makers who enjoy their career and are at the top of their field. Unfortunately, I also think they come in contact with a lot of people in the single world who are not so much after their drive as their pocketbooks, and try a bit too hard to please them. I'm not one of "them."
Lucky Charms, who is Chicago-Irish, sweet and crunchy, made a reservation at a slightly-posh, yet comfortable Italian restaurant in Los Gatos. He's a big guy in all aspects of the word. Big body, big hands, big hair, big voice.
The restaurant had reserved a small table, which would have been fine, but LC wanted us to be comfortable, so we waited for a (big) booth. At the bar, he pulled out my stool for me and literally had to pick it up, with me in it, to slide it under the table. It was actually kind of funny -- especially since I'm weird about chivalry, and we both knew how blatantly chivalrous it was. We got a giggle out of it. This guy doesn't do anything half-way.
We sat down, and ordered a couple of drinks. He ordered some complicated scotch drink, "straight up" and I had a glass of Chianti. At this point, LC let me know that dinner was "on him." Well, thank you very much. That's fine. It's 2006, and chivalry is dead -- but he invited me, so I'll just shut up and enjoy it. For dinner, LC orders the lobster ravioli, of course. I ordered some tortellini thing.
Our conversation revolved much around Chicago, "big" projects, work ethic in the Bay Area, un-PC comments and jokes, naming pets, and paintball. We pretty much hit everything, although all of his work stuff was completely over my head, as singing and working in the performing arts was over his. LC moved to the Bay Area after being charged with moving a project at his (big) tech firm. Apparently, they thought he could get people moving on it with his dominant personality. He doesn't like to shit around -- he's a man of results. I can appreciate that, but at the same time, parts of the conversation seemed a bit arrogant to me, also with the scotch drinking and lobster eating. I'm usually the one who keeps the conversation going when meeting someone new, but I would say he took the prize for thinking up interesting date topics. So, here is the question: can two dominant personalities co-exist?
Perhaps his big personality is threatening to me... But, I accepted for another date. Am I after his Lucky Charms?
Monday, November 27, 2006
Turkey Trots and Tofurkey
Excuse me while I tell you about the rest of my Thanksgiving weekend that revolved little around cereal dating. I'm tired of the aforementioned subject anyway. If only my endurance for dating was that of my 10 K endurance. I would be a new woman.
I got up at 7 am with friends to run the 2nd Annual Silicon Valley Turkey Trot, where I saw NO signs of a turkey. But, Brandi Chastaine was there - again. Does she just travel to local running events and do radio blurbs? You're a great soccer player and a local hero -- we got it! I hate to say it, Helga, but I am not the fastest woman in San Jose, but I think I am the second fastest woman in Campbell between the ages of 20 and 29... Here's how I did:
Age: 27
13 F 20-29
50:16.1
50:31.0
0:14.9
8:06/M
The Trot was followed by 4 hours of cooking. For those of you who know me well, this is much more of a feat than running 6.2 miles. Not only am I not a good cook, I just don't usually do well in the kitchen environment. My roommate had brought home a gorgeous tofurkey, so I felt I should do my part. I made two pumpkin pies, green bean casserole with FRESH green beans, mashed potatoes (not the boxed kind), my mother's famous raspberry/cranberry jello concoction, and my roommate added a Finnish sweet potato souffle. It was all yummy, except maybe the rubbery tofurkey, but I really liked the stuffing that came with it. Not all tofu is bad.
Dinner and "Frida" was followed by a night cap in downtown Campbell.
I got up at 7 am with friends to run the 2nd Annual Silicon Valley Turkey Trot, where I saw NO signs of a turkey. But, Brandi Chastaine was there - again. Does she just travel to local running events and do radio blurbs? You're a great soccer player and a local hero -- we got it! I hate to say it, Helga, but I am not the fastest woman in San Jose, but I think I am the second fastest woman in Campbell between the ages of 20 and 29... Here's how I did:
Age: 27
13 F 20-29
50:16.1
50:31.0
0:14.9
8:06/M
The Trot was followed by 4 hours of cooking. For those of you who know me well, this is much more of a feat than running 6.2 miles. Not only am I not a good cook, I just don't usually do well in the kitchen environment. My roommate had brought home a gorgeous tofurkey, so I felt I should do my part. I made two pumpkin pies, green bean casserole with FRESH green beans, mashed potatoes (not the boxed kind), my mother's famous raspberry/cranberry jello concoction, and my roommate added a Finnish sweet potato souffle. It was all yummy, except maybe the rubbery tofurkey, but I really liked the stuffing that came with it. Not all tofu is bad.
Dinner and "Frida" was followed by a night cap in downtown Campbell.
Cornflakes, RC, porridge revisited...
Second dates are always so much more revealing than first dates.
Cornflakes sat through a 2 hour high school benefit concert and didn't complain. We'd also started the evening with Cajun food and a pitcher of Turbodog. That might have helped, but I genuinely think he had a good time.
Porridge still insists on opening my car door and took me to a restaurant where men with guitars serenade you at the table. He is almost insistent upon, "getting to know me better."
Rice Crispies is shy, but was not ashamed to sing "Livin' on a Prayer" at a dive karaoke bar or to eat chicken fried steak at a 24 hour diner at 2:30 am.
Coming soon (?)... The man from Chicago. What kind of cereal will he be?
Cornflakes sat through a 2 hour high school benefit concert and didn't complain. We'd also started the evening with Cajun food and a pitcher of Turbodog. That might have helped, but I genuinely think he had a good time.
Porridge still insists on opening my car door and took me to a restaurant where men with guitars serenade you at the table. He is almost insistent upon, "getting to know me better."
Rice Crispies is shy, but was not ashamed to sing "Livin' on a Prayer" at a dive karaoke bar or to eat chicken fried steak at a 24 hour diner at 2:30 am.
Coming soon (?)... The man from Chicago. What kind of cereal will he be?
Tuesday, November 21, 2006
Goldilocks tastes the Porridge
I just wish she could eat it up like this!Unfortunately this Goldilocks doesn't yet know if the porridge is too cold, too hot, or just right. Goldilocks is a fan of oatmeal, but doesn't know if she's had porridge before, per say. It seems like it may be something she likes, yet maybe a little old fashioned for her tastes. Goldilocks is a very independent woman, but she's also sick of boring, cold cereal or conversely, burning her tongue.
Porridge and I met on a pub crawl, which was a lot of fun. I went with a group of pub crawl rookie friends. His group of friends were all of the pub crawl old-timers, there from the first year of this annual downtown tradition. He was a friend to many, loved by all, almost like the beloved fairytale. Porridge takes care of people --his friends, his family, random women he meets on pub crawls... He's just a good guy. I was constantly being introduced to new people, had a drink in my hand, my friends were treated like family. A good time was had by all.
The next day, Porridge and I decided to have a lazy Sunday (non-drunken) afternoon in Capitola, followed by sushi. He was attentive, opened the car door, etc. I liked this, but it also made me uncomfortable. I'm not used to someone trying to take care of me. I think this is my problem, and no fault of porridge, who just wishes everyone to have a nice warm breakfast on a cold morning.
Maybe I'm the cold porridge.
Snap, Crackle, Pop...
...Rice Crispies *singing*
I've changed my mind about Rice Crispies. This cereal is, of course, part of a balanced breakfast, but it makes fabulous sounds when milk is added. I'd forgotten how exciting it is when your cereal actually speaks back to you, furthermore when you are interested in what it has to say to you. Rice Crispies is intelligent and fun at the same time. Nothing needs to be added -- except milk, and it's damned tasty without. Rice Crispies is also responsible for the most delicious, easy to make snack, the famous Rice Crispy Treat. Mmmmmmm.
Mr. Rice Crispies is a midwestern gentleman who doesn't feel he needs to open doors for you, because he's not trying to overly impress you. (Chivalry is so dead, in my opinion.) He's quick (intellectually "snappy"), has a degree in law, could have the tendency to get dry or soggy, but is open conversationally and is not shy to admit to going to karaoke parties. We went to dinner at a tapas restaurant. He let me pick the place, and even let me decide what to order. He spoke softly but with such an aura about him that you knew he exuded confidence. Communication is so nice, isn't it? So many people lack in this category.
Rice Crispies is very open and honest about doing cereal dating of his own, making him almost more inticing. I'm sure I'm not the only one lured in by Mr. RC. Like I said, this guy is smart. He knows he's good looking, but can remain humble, and knows he's intelligent, but doesn't take over the conversation or activity. There is a mystery there - what makes Rice Crispies snap, crackle and pop?
I'll let you know if I find out.
I've changed my mind about Rice Crispies. This cereal is, of course, part of a balanced breakfast, but it makes fabulous sounds when milk is added. I'd forgotten how exciting it is when your cereal actually speaks back to you, furthermore when you are interested in what it has to say to you. Rice Crispies is intelligent and fun at the same time. Nothing needs to be added -- except milk, and it's damned tasty without. Rice Crispies is also responsible for the most delicious, easy to make snack, the famous Rice Crispy Treat. Mmmmmmm.
Mr. Rice Crispies is a midwestern gentleman who doesn't feel he needs to open doors for you, because he's not trying to overly impress you. (Chivalry is so dead, in my opinion.) He's quick (intellectually "snappy"), has a degree in law, could have the tendency to get dry or soggy, but is open conversationally and is not shy to admit to going to karaoke parties. We went to dinner at a tapas restaurant. He let me pick the place, and even let me decide what to order. He spoke softly but with such an aura about him that you knew he exuded confidence. Communication is so nice, isn't it? So many people lack in this category.
Rice Crispies is very open and honest about doing cereal dating of his own, making him almost more inticing. I'm sure I'm not the only one lured in by Mr. RC. Like I said, this guy is smart. He knows he's good looking, but can remain humble, and knows he's intelligent, but doesn't take over the conversation or activity. There is a mystery there - what makes Rice Crispies snap, crackle and pop?
I'll let you know if I find out.
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
Never been a Cornflake Girl
Never was a cornflake girl
Thought that was a good solution
Hanging with the raisin girls
She's gone to the other side
Givin us a yo heave ho
Things are getting kind of gross
And I go at sleepy time
This is not really happening
You bet your life it is
--Tori Amos
I could probably eat cornflakes at any time of the day, morning, lunch, evening, as a late-night snack. Cornflakes are a popular cereal, even worldwide. In fact, Germans refer to all cereals as "Cornflakes" as we Americans refer to facial tissue as "Kleenex". But, they really aren't a cereal that I crave or otherwise have an affection for. They are just good ole', standard, healthy, crispy flakes. Honestly, to make corn flakes taste really good, they need tons of sugar or fruit on top. It would be nice to find a naturally sweetened flake - perhaps the use of sugar instead of corn syrup. Cornflakes sweetened by corn syrup -- that's a lot of corn.
This is American, man. It's amazing how much corn is out there: corn flakes, corn puffs, corn chowder, corn bread, corn syrup... I should know, I'm from the #1 corn state. Iowans are proud of their corn culture; they even started the "ethanol" gas revolution. A product made of corn that runs an engine? REMARKABLE! I think my parents would be thrilled with a Cornflake son-in-law that could run an engine.
Cornflake Boy (who also happens to be a mechanical engineer.. he he he) invited me to a college basketball game last night - his high-brow, Ivy league alma mater, vs. my ghetto-ass State College. We had a beer before the game at a local pub where we discussed skiing and told funny Las Vegas stories before heading over to the game.
My first impression - yep, this is a Stanford guy. Cute, non-offensive, nice smile, clean, stands upright, looks you in the eye when he talks to you. My father would love him. We had a nice conversation throughout the game, but nothing deeper than surface level. (Not that I expected it on a first date.) CB is true to his team. He's the biggest fan of all Cardinal sports, and attends games regularly. He has 2 degrees from the tree-as-mascot university, and intends to go back for an MBA. I don't know, it's a little to "home grown" for my tastes. I think I'm in need of a little diversity.
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